PARISH EVENTS
Due to our strict following our NY Forward Covid19 Safety Plan, most events listed below will be conducted virtually on either Facebook Watch, our website or Zoom unless otherwise noted.
One Messiah: A Community Forum on Our Common Future
Wednesday, January 20th at 6:30pm
https://zoom.us/j/99224358914
Whew... what a year 2020 was in so many ways! Amidst the heartbreak of COVID19 however, the Spirit has been at work in our midst building something new with our friends down the street at Trinity Reformed Church! All across America, from our largest cities to our smallest villages, there are far too many small congregations of similar denominations who have remained divided around the linguistic, ethnic and racial divisions of a century ago and the long forgotten (by most) theological arguments of half a millennia ago. These small congregations of similar denominations have SO many gifts to share in service to Christ reflected in the face of their neighbors, and my gosh, their communities NEED them! In some small way, we believe we are taking a bold step in providing one possible template for that very sense of ecumenical and interfaith collaboration called for in these unprecedented times.
While this all so, so exciting, we fully recognize that for members of both of our congregations, as well as our friends and neighbors, this is also likely a time of great anxiety and many questions, all exacerbating by our limited ability to be physically together during COVID19. With that fact in mind, all are invited to take part in something we're calling One Messiah: A Community Forum on Our Common Future. Many of the consultants who have helped us develop everything from initial plans for the Trinity Reformed property to our new staffing structure and more will be on hand to answer your questions and hopefully build a common understanding of where we're heading. While there will be time during the presentation itself to ask additional questions, we are asking our members to submit questions beforehand using either our virtual survey or a paper copy included in the January 2021 Messenger by Sunday, January 10th.
You can join on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/99224358914. If you would prefer just to watch, the event will also be broadcast on our website at www.messiahschenectady.org/worshiplive.html and on our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/MessiahLC. If pandemic conditions allow and in line with our New York Forward COVID19 policy, a limited number of individuals without technical capabilities MAY be able to gather in person to participate together on Zoom. If you are someone with limited technical capabilities, please contact me ASAP, as we want your voice included in this important discussion!!!!
Community Meditation and Prayer
Thursdays, continuing January 21st at 6:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92437622756
From a Christian perspective, meditation is a powerful form of prayer that allows us to slow down our own minds and anxieties in order to hear how God might be speaking to us. Contemporary psychology, albeit using different words, agrees! Many studies have show meditation and other forms of regular mindfulness training can lead to lower stress, improved sleep and better focus, amongst other benefits. After briefly reflecting on the day using our daily Bread for the Day devotional, we'll move into a roughly twenty minute guided meditation. This week will be led by Pastor Dustin. This is currently a Zoom only offering.
Peace Not Walls: Justice in Palestine & Israel
Continuing January 24th at 8:45am
https://zoom.us/j/94311937514
In this weekly adult education course we will examine the history of the Palestine-Israel Conflict and efforts to develop a positive peace, where there is justice and systems and structures in place that build positive relationships and work to establish equity and support anti-racist policies. Grounded in concern for the dignity of all people, full respect for human rights, healing and reconciliation, and a theology of accompaniment, we will explore how Palestinians and Israelis, Jews, Christians, and Muslims may work together for peace with justice in what many call "the Holy Land." We will draw upon readings and videotapes as well as arrange conversations with experts on this topic and leaders in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. Those who want to move beyond awareness-raising will be encouraged to participate in accompaniment and advocacy activities. Currently, this will be a Zoom only offering.
Here are the readings for this week:
1. Blood Brothers pp. 78-107
2. "The Partition Plan: Background & Overview (September 1947)"
3. "Origins of the Palestinian Mandate" (2014)
4. "Two Settler Colonies: Israel and the United States"
5. "The Historical Roots of Christian Zionism, Its Theological Basis and Political Agenda" (2018) (1:08:23)
6. Genesis 15:18-21
Mass for the Third Sunday after Epiphany: Prayer for Christian Unity
Sunday, January 24th at 10:00am
On thi Sunday, with Christians around the world, we gather in prayer for the reunification of Christ's one holy catholic and apostolic Church, all in service to the face of Christ in our neighbor. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside. By the way, this is the anniversary of our last in-person worship service at Trinity Reformed Church before the start of the pandemic so let's gather together to celebrate the new things God has done since that time! As one VERY special way of doing just that, we'll officially welcome all members of Trinity to Messiah during worship! The service will be broadcast both on the "Worship Online" section of our website and on Facebook Watch.
Epiphany for Kids: "Reluctance"
Sunday, January 24th at 12:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94695686497
Today on Epiphany for Kids, we reflect on the the story of the reluctant prophet Jonah in Jonah 3:1-5, 10 and how sometimes, God might call us to do things we'd never expect! This course is both held live on Zoom and broadcast on Facebook Watch.
Community Confirmation Class: Acts of the Apostles (4 of 5)
Sunday, January 24th at 6:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92815271554
All middle school aged children in our local community and their families are invited to join us for our weekly virtual Confirmation Class program using the colaborate curriculum from Sparkhouse! Nearly every Sunday evening we gather to watch a video, engage in a brief Bible study and have a conversation about how to make sense of the complicated world we're living in through the lens of the New Testament. Throughout the month of January our young people will study the Acts of the Apostles and discussing how to mission of the earliest Christians reflects the work of Christians today. On this Sunday of Prayer for Christian Unity we'll discuss the good work of ecumenical organizations around the world, from the World Council of Churches to the ACT Alliance and Church World Service. We'll also discuss the wider ministries of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America like ELCA World Hunger, ELCA Global Mission, ELCA Advocacy and more. This is currently a Zoom only offering.
Vespers for the Feast of the Conversion of Paul
Monday, January 25th at 6:00pm
In the days after the Epiphany of Our Lord we commemorate not only Paul’s seeing the light but his saintly effort thereafter at being the light. Having our eyes opened by the Spirit of God in holy baptism, having been enlightened by the word read and proclaimed in the assembly, and having regained our strength in the Lord’s supper, we too are converted—turned again to follow in God’s way. Join Pastor Dustin on Facebook Watch for a brief service of prayer and reflection as we conclude our celebration of the 112th Annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity at a time we need it more than ever.
Mass for the Presentation of Our Lord: Candlemas
Sunday, January 31st at 10:00am
Candlemas, also known as the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord, is an ancient Christian tradition that marks the end of the Christmas-Epiphany season (many used to keep up their Christmas trees until this time). Held during the darkest, coldest part of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the tradition of Candlemas includes a blessing of candles to be taken home as reminder of the returning light. Especially as so many of us struggle with seasonal depression this time of year, be sure to join us in a joyful service that looks forward to brighter days and gives thanks for the Light of Christ! Pastor Dustin will preach and preside. The service will be broadcast both on the "Worship Online" section of our website and on Facebook Watch.
Epiphany for Kids: "Light"
Sunday, January 31st at 12:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94695686497
Today on Epiphany for Kids, we reflect on the of Jesus as a child in the Temple in Luke 2:22-40 and discuss how we can all share the Light of Christ this Candlemas! This course is both held live on Zoom and broadcast on Facebook Watch.
Community Confirmation Class: Acts of the Apostles (5 of 5)
Sunday, January 31th at 6:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92815271554
All middle school aged children in our local community and their families are invited to join us for our weekly virtual Confirmation Class program using the colaborate curriculum from Sparkhouse! Nearly every Sunday evening we gather to watch a video, engage in a brief Bible study and have a conversation about how to make sense of the complicated world we're living in through the lens of the New Testament. Throughout the month of January our young people will study the Acts of the Apostles and discussing how to mission of the earliest Christians reflects the work of Christians today. On this Sunday our young people and their families are joined by their confirmation mentors to discuss all they've learned about the Christian movement and how they might be inspired to serve Christ in the future. This is currently a Zoom only offering.
Worship & Music Ministry Team Meeting
Monday, February 1st at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/96341841016
Interested in helping our faith community figure out how we'll continue to ground ourselves in the Way of Jesus each and every Sunday? Join our Worship & Music Ministry Team! In addition to planning for regular Sunday services, this group also coordinates our Choir, our Altar Guild/ Sanctuary Prep, our Meditation & Prayer ministries! The team meets (almost) every month on the first Monday of the month at 7:00pm. The link for tonight's meeting is:https://zoom.us/j/96341841016.
Care & Concern Committee Meeting
Wednesday, February 3rd at 1:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/91838754902
As one committee of our wider Fellowship Ministry Team, Care & Concern is all about making sure our members in need of care are regularly reached out to and supported in the midst of loss, health crises and more. This group also directs our growing mental health and addiction ministries as well as our soon to be developed Memorial Garden. Barb Hallett is our Committee Chair and the committee meets the first Wednesday of the month at 1:00pm. The link for today's meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/91838754902.
Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting
Wednesday, February 3rd at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/99082870648
At Messiah many of us have somehow actually grown closer while physically apart... gosh, the Spirit is certainly at work! The purpose of the Fellowship Ministry Team is to provide opportunities for all of our members (and perspective members) of all ages to connect, hear one another's stories, and have fun! This group includes the Mighty Men of Messiah, Women of the ELCA (WELCA), Care & Concern, Young Adult Group, our Kitchen Committee, Over 55 Gang, our Welcome Committee for new and perspective members and our new Arts & Culture ministry. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for this afternoon's meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/99082870648. In this meeting in particular we'll discuss what smaller group fellowship activities we can hold in-person within our New Your Forward COVID19 Safety Plan. Please join us!
The Meaning of Service: An Interfaith Forum
Thursday, February 4th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/95677783782
Particularly in the aftermath of the violent insurrection at the US Capitol Building on January 6th, we all lament the spread of hate, fear and division that has engulfed our country. While we rise against hate however, we also must be clear on what we are for. With that in mind, Schenectady Community Ministries (SiCM), in partnership with Schenectady Clergy Against Hate and the Interfaith Community of Schenectady, will convene a forum on the meaning of service amongst Schenectady's many faith traditions. Panelists including Rev. Nicolle Harris of Duryee Memorial AME Zion Church, Rabbi Matt Cutler of Congregation Gates of Heaven, Sister Ann Christi Brink of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Paul Uppal of the Sikh Community, Rev. Jeremiah Lennox of Nemeton of the Ways and will each answer the question, "What is one teaching from your faith's sacred texts or traditions that inspires you to serve your community?" Following initial remarks, the panel will engage in a conversation moderated by Rev. Kathy Gorman-Coombs, Co-Pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Scotia and Shae Fitzgerald of Congregation Gates of Heaven and a member of SiCM's Interfaith Committee. There is space for 100 participants to be present and ask questions "in the room" on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/95677783782 and the event will also be broadcast on our partners' respective Facebook Pages. All people of faith and goodwill are invited to attend.
Mass for the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Sunday, February 7th at 10:00am
In Isaiah the one God who sits above the earth and numbers the stars also strengthens the powerless. So in Jesus’ healing work we see the hand of the creator God, lifting up the sick woman to health and service (diakonia). Like Simon’s mother-in-law, we are lifted up and healed to serve. Following Jesus, we strengthen the powerless; like Jesus, we seek to renew our own strength in quiet times of prayer. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside. The service will be broadcast both on the "Worship Online" section of our website and on Facebook Watch.
2021 Annual Meeting of the Congregation
Sunday, February 7th at 12:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/96036269005
From electing members of the Congregation Council to adopting a 2021 Annual Budget and more, our Annual Meeting of the Congregation is the time every year where we reflect on our last year of ministry and discern where God is calling us in the year ahead. This year of course will be even more consequential as we will consider the purchase of the former Trinity Reformed building, adopt necessary bylaw amendments and take other actions related to our new future together with the good people of Trinity Reformed Church. Per our governing documents, an 2021 Annual Report of the Congregation, along with a 2021 Annual Parish Budget and all resolutions for consideration will be released to the congregation via email by Thursday, January 21st, 2021 at the latest via email with paper copies available for pick up.
You can join on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96036269005 or by calling in by dialing 1.929.205.6099 and entering Meeting ID 96036269005#. If pandemic conditions allow and in line with our New York Forward COVID19 Safe Policy, a limited number of individuals without technical capabilities MAY be able to gather in person to participate together on Zoom and thus vote. If you are someone with limited technical capabilities, please contact Pastor Dustin ASAP, as we want your voice included in this important discussion!!!! If you would prefer just to watch, the event will also be broadcast on our website and recorded at www.messiahschenectady.org/worshiplive.html but "viewers" will not be able to vote due to amendments to New York State nonprofit laws related to COVID19.
Faith Formation Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, February 9th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92199006383
Want to help guide how our congregation studies the ancient wisdom of Scripture, explores our connection God and creation and help our young people have a strong, ethical foundation? Join our Faith Formation Ministry Team! This group includes Adult Education, Children's Sunday School, Cradle Roll & Nursery, Youth and Outdoor Ministries! Help us teach folks of all ages how our faith calls us to teach that EVERYONE is created in God's image! The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for this night's meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/92199006383.
Stewardship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, March 9th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/93024204486
Our Stewardship Ministry Team is the group of committees at Messiah that allow us to support our four major program areas. Without being good stewards of our Budget & Finance, Communications, Personnel, Property & Grounds, Mission Support, Archives, Safe Church ministries and more, there's no way we could engage in all the life-changing ministries we do at Messiah. A particular focus of this conversation will be implementing all the major decisions made at our 2021 Annual Meeting of the Congregation regarding consolidation with the people of Trinity Reformed, the reinventing of that property into a community center and making our worship center fully accessible. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/93024204486.
Social Action Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, April 13th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/91568452071
This is by far our most active ministry team at Messiah! Our Social Action Ministry Team is the space through which we discern all the ways we're called to serve our neighbors following the Way of Jesus Christ! We do this in a wide variety ways, through our Social Justice, Creation Care, Community Service, our work with Schenectady Community Ministries, the Bread of Life Food Pantry ministries and more! The top priorities for discussion in this upcoming meeting include how we can continue to support social justice causes like #BlackLivesMatter and Pride as well as the continued transformation of our Bread of Life Food Pantry into a full fledged community center for the Town of Rotterdam. Our ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/91568452071.
To view our complete parish calendar, click here.
One Messiah: A Community Forum on Our Common Future
Wednesday, January 20th at 6:30pm
https://zoom.us/j/99224358914
Whew... what a year 2020 was in so many ways! Amidst the heartbreak of COVID19 however, the Spirit has been at work in our midst building something new with our friends down the street at Trinity Reformed Church! All across America, from our largest cities to our smallest villages, there are far too many small congregations of similar denominations who have remained divided around the linguistic, ethnic and racial divisions of a century ago and the long forgotten (by most) theological arguments of half a millennia ago. These small congregations of similar denominations have SO many gifts to share in service to Christ reflected in the face of their neighbors, and my gosh, their communities NEED them! In some small way, we believe we are taking a bold step in providing one possible template for that very sense of ecumenical and interfaith collaboration called for in these unprecedented times.
While this all so, so exciting, we fully recognize that for members of both of our congregations, as well as our friends and neighbors, this is also likely a time of great anxiety and many questions, all exacerbating by our limited ability to be physically together during COVID19. With that fact in mind, all are invited to take part in something we're calling One Messiah: A Community Forum on Our Common Future. Many of the consultants who have helped us develop everything from initial plans for the Trinity Reformed property to our new staffing structure and more will be on hand to answer your questions and hopefully build a common understanding of where we're heading. While there will be time during the presentation itself to ask additional questions, we are asking our members to submit questions beforehand using either our virtual survey or a paper copy included in the January 2021 Messenger by Sunday, January 10th.
You can join on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/99224358914. If you would prefer just to watch, the event will also be broadcast on our website at www.messiahschenectady.org/worshiplive.html and on our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/MessiahLC. If pandemic conditions allow and in line with our New York Forward COVID19 policy, a limited number of individuals without technical capabilities MAY be able to gather in person to participate together on Zoom. If you are someone with limited technical capabilities, please contact me ASAP, as we want your voice included in this important discussion!!!!
Community Meditation and Prayer
Thursdays, continuing January 21st at 6:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92437622756
From a Christian perspective, meditation is a powerful form of prayer that allows us to slow down our own minds and anxieties in order to hear how God might be speaking to us. Contemporary psychology, albeit using different words, agrees! Many studies have show meditation and other forms of regular mindfulness training can lead to lower stress, improved sleep and better focus, amongst other benefits. After briefly reflecting on the day using our daily Bread for the Day devotional, we'll move into a roughly twenty minute guided meditation. This week will be led by Pastor Dustin. This is currently a Zoom only offering.
Peace Not Walls: Justice in Palestine & Israel
Continuing January 24th at 8:45am
https://zoom.us/j/94311937514
In this weekly adult education course we will examine the history of the Palestine-Israel Conflict and efforts to develop a positive peace, where there is justice and systems and structures in place that build positive relationships and work to establish equity and support anti-racist policies. Grounded in concern for the dignity of all people, full respect for human rights, healing and reconciliation, and a theology of accompaniment, we will explore how Palestinians and Israelis, Jews, Christians, and Muslims may work together for peace with justice in what many call "the Holy Land." We will draw upon readings and videotapes as well as arrange conversations with experts on this topic and leaders in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. Those who want to move beyond awareness-raising will be encouraged to participate in accompaniment and advocacy activities. Currently, this will be a Zoom only offering.
Here are the readings for this week:
1. Blood Brothers pp. 78-107
2. "The Partition Plan: Background & Overview (September 1947)"
3. "Origins of the Palestinian Mandate" (2014)
4. "Two Settler Colonies: Israel and the United States"
5. "The Historical Roots of Christian Zionism, Its Theological Basis and Political Agenda" (2018) (1:08:23)
6. Genesis 15:18-21
Mass for the Third Sunday after Epiphany: Prayer for Christian Unity
Sunday, January 24th at 10:00am
On thi Sunday, with Christians around the world, we gather in prayer for the reunification of Christ's one holy catholic and apostolic Church, all in service to the face of Christ in our neighbor. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside. By the way, this is the anniversary of our last in-person worship service at Trinity Reformed Church before the start of the pandemic so let's gather together to celebrate the new things God has done since that time! As one VERY special way of doing just that, we'll officially welcome all members of Trinity to Messiah during worship! The service will be broadcast both on the "Worship Online" section of our website and on Facebook Watch.
Epiphany for Kids: "Reluctance"
Sunday, January 24th at 12:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94695686497
Today on Epiphany for Kids, we reflect on the the story of the reluctant prophet Jonah in Jonah 3:1-5, 10 and how sometimes, God might call us to do things we'd never expect! This course is both held live on Zoom and broadcast on Facebook Watch.
Community Confirmation Class: Acts of the Apostles (4 of 5)
Sunday, January 24th at 6:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92815271554
All middle school aged children in our local community and their families are invited to join us for our weekly virtual Confirmation Class program using the colaborate curriculum from Sparkhouse! Nearly every Sunday evening we gather to watch a video, engage in a brief Bible study and have a conversation about how to make sense of the complicated world we're living in through the lens of the New Testament. Throughout the month of January our young people will study the Acts of the Apostles and discussing how to mission of the earliest Christians reflects the work of Christians today. On this Sunday of Prayer for Christian Unity we'll discuss the good work of ecumenical organizations around the world, from the World Council of Churches to the ACT Alliance and Church World Service. We'll also discuss the wider ministries of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America like ELCA World Hunger, ELCA Global Mission, ELCA Advocacy and more. This is currently a Zoom only offering.
Vespers for the Feast of the Conversion of Paul
Monday, January 25th at 6:00pm
In the days after the Epiphany of Our Lord we commemorate not only Paul’s seeing the light but his saintly effort thereafter at being the light. Having our eyes opened by the Spirit of God in holy baptism, having been enlightened by the word read and proclaimed in the assembly, and having regained our strength in the Lord’s supper, we too are converted—turned again to follow in God’s way. Join Pastor Dustin on Facebook Watch for a brief service of prayer and reflection as we conclude our celebration of the 112th Annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity at a time we need it more than ever.
Mass for the Presentation of Our Lord: Candlemas
Sunday, January 31st at 10:00am
Candlemas, also known as the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord, is an ancient Christian tradition that marks the end of the Christmas-Epiphany season (many used to keep up their Christmas trees until this time). Held during the darkest, coldest part of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the tradition of Candlemas includes a blessing of candles to be taken home as reminder of the returning light. Especially as so many of us struggle with seasonal depression this time of year, be sure to join us in a joyful service that looks forward to brighter days and gives thanks for the Light of Christ! Pastor Dustin will preach and preside. The service will be broadcast both on the "Worship Online" section of our website and on Facebook Watch.
Epiphany for Kids: "Light"
Sunday, January 31st at 12:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94695686497
Today on Epiphany for Kids, we reflect on the of Jesus as a child in the Temple in Luke 2:22-40 and discuss how we can all share the Light of Christ this Candlemas! This course is both held live on Zoom and broadcast on Facebook Watch.
Community Confirmation Class: Acts of the Apostles (5 of 5)
Sunday, January 31th at 6:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92815271554
All middle school aged children in our local community and their families are invited to join us for our weekly virtual Confirmation Class program using the colaborate curriculum from Sparkhouse! Nearly every Sunday evening we gather to watch a video, engage in a brief Bible study and have a conversation about how to make sense of the complicated world we're living in through the lens of the New Testament. Throughout the month of January our young people will study the Acts of the Apostles and discussing how to mission of the earliest Christians reflects the work of Christians today. On this Sunday our young people and their families are joined by their confirmation mentors to discuss all they've learned about the Christian movement and how they might be inspired to serve Christ in the future. This is currently a Zoom only offering.
Worship & Music Ministry Team Meeting
Monday, February 1st at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/96341841016
Interested in helping our faith community figure out how we'll continue to ground ourselves in the Way of Jesus each and every Sunday? Join our Worship & Music Ministry Team! In addition to planning for regular Sunday services, this group also coordinates our Choir, our Altar Guild/ Sanctuary Prep, our Meditation & Prayer ministries! The team meets (almost) every month on the first Monday of the month at 7:00pm. The link for tonight's meeting is:https://zoom.us/j/96341841016.
Care & Concern Committee Meeting
Wednesday, February 3rd at 1:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/91838754902
As one committee of our wider Fellowship Ministry Team, Care & Concern is all about making sure our members in need of care are regularly reached out to and supported in the midst of loss, health crises and more. This group also directs our growing mental health and addiction ministries as well as our soon to be developed Memorial Garden. Barb Hallett is our Committee Chair and the committee meets the first Wednesday of the month at 1:00pm. The link for today's meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/91838754902.
Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting
Wednesday, February 3rd at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/99082870648
At Messiah many of us have somehow actually grown closer while physically apart... gosh, the Spirit is certainly at work! The purpose of the Fellowship Ministry Team is to provide opportunities for all of our members (and perspective members) of all ages to connect, hear one another's stories, and have fun! This group includes the Mighty Men of Messiah, Women of the ELCA (WELCA), Care & Concern, Young Adult Group, our Kitchen Committee, Over 55 Gang, our Welcome Committee for new and perspective members and our new Arts & Culture ministry. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for this afternoon's meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/99082870648. In this meeting in particular we'll discuss what smaller group fellowship activities we can hold in-person within our New Your Forward COVID19 Safety Plan. Please join us!
The Meaning of Service: An Interfaith Forum
Thursday, February 4th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/95677783782
Particularly in the aftermath of the violent insurrection at the US Capitol Building on January 6th, we all lament the spread of hate, fear and division that has engulfed our country. While we rise against hate however, we also must be clear on what we are for. With that in mind, Schenectady Community Ministries (SiCM), in partnership with Schenectady Clergy Against Hate and the Interfaith Community of Schenectady, will convene a forum on the meaning of service amongst Schenectady's many faith traditions. Panelists including Rev. Nicolle Harris of Duryee Memorial AME Zion Church, Rabbi Matt Cutler of Congregation Gates of Heaven, Sister Ann Christi Brink of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Paul Uppal of the Sikh Community, Rev. Jeremiah Lennox of Nemeton of the Ways and will each answer the question, "What is one teaching from your faith's sacred texts or traditions that inspires you to serve your community?" Following initial remarks, the panel will engage in a conversation moderated by Rev. Kathy Gorman-Coombs, Co-Pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Scotia and Shae Fitzgerald of Congregation Gates of Heaven and a member of SiCM's Interfaith Committee. There is space for 100 participants to be present and ask questions "in the room" on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/95677783782 and the event will also be broadcast on our partners' respective Facebook Pages. All people of faith and goodwill are invited to attend.
Mass for the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Sunday, February 7th at 10:00am
In Isaiah the one God who sits above the earth and numbers the stars also strengthens the powerless. So in Jesus’ healing work we see the hand of the creator God, lifting up the sick woman to health and service (diakonia). Like Simon’s mother-in-law, we are lifted up and healed to serve. Following Jesus, we strengthen the powerless; like Jesus, we seek to renew our own strength in quiet times of prayer. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside. The service will be broadcast both on the "Worship Online" section of our website and on Facebook Watch.
2021 Annual Meeting of the Congregation
Sunday, February 7th at 12:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/96036269005
From electing members of the Congregation Council to adopting a 2021 Annual Budget and more, our Annual Meeting of the Congregation is the time every year where we reflect on our last year of ministry and discern where God is calling us in the year ahead. This year of course will be even more consequential as we will consider the purchase of the former Trinity Reformed building, adopt necessary bylaw amendments and take other actions related to our new future together with the good people of Trinity Reformed Church. Per our governing documents, an 2021 Annual Report of the Congregation, along with a 2021 Annual Parish Budget and all resolutions for consideration will be released to the congregation via email by Thursday, January 21st, 2021 at the latest via email with paper copies available for pick up.
You can join on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96036269005 or by calling in by dialing 1.929.205.6099 and entering Meeting ID 96036269005#. If pandemic conditions allow and in line with our New York Forward COVID19 Safe Policy, a limited number of individuals without technical capabilities MAY be able to gather in person to participate together on Zoom and thus vote. If you are someone with limited technical capabilities, please contact Pastor Dustin ASAP, as we want your voice included in this important discussion!!!! If you would prefer just to watch, the event will also be broadcast on our website and recorded at www.messiahschenectady.org/worshiplive.html but "viewers" will not be able to vote due to amendments to New York State nonprofit laws related to COVID19.
Faith Formation Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, February 9th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92199006383
Want to help guide how our congregation studies the ancient wisdom of Scripture, explores our connection God and creation and help our young people have a strong, ethical foundation? Join our Faith Formation Ministry Team! This group includes Adult Education, Children's Sunday School, Cradle Roll & Nursery, Youth and Outdoor Ministries! Help us teach folks of all ages how our faith calls us to teach that EVERYONE is created in God's image! The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for this night's meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/92199006383.
Stewardship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, March 9th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/93024204486
Our Stewardship Ministry Team is the group of committees at Messiah that allow us to support our four major program areas. Without being good stewards of our Budget & Finance, Communications, Personnel, Property & Grounds, Mission Support, Archives, Safe Church ministries and more, there's no way we could engage in all the life-changing ministries we do at Messiah. A particular focus of this conversation will be implementing all the major decisions made at our 2021 Annual Meeting of the Congregation regarding consolidation with the people of Trinity Reformed, the reinventing of that property into a community center and making our worship center fully accessible. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/93024204486.
Social Action Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, April 13th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/91568452071
This is by far our most active ministry team at Messiah! Our Social Action Ministry Team is the space through which we discern all the ways we're called to serve our neighbors following the Way of Jesus Christ! We do this in a wide variety ways, through our Social Justice, Creation Care, Community Service, our work with Schenectady Community Ministries, the Bread of Life Food Pantry ministries and more! The top priorities for discussion in this upcoming meeting include how we can continue to support social justice causes like #BlackLivesMatter and Pride as well as the continued transformation of our Bread of Life Food Pantry into a full fledged community center for the Town of Rotterdam. Our ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/91568452071.
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