University Blog

Hospitality and Generosity in the Time of Harvey: An Update

Posted by Rev. Ben Trammell on

Love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

Romans 12:10-13

Friends,

This week has brought us images of floods and storms and the damage left in their wake. I admit it has been hard on me. But we have also seen how communities respond in love, folks facing suffering together and holding fast to hope. Paul knew a thing or two about challenging times, and his instructions are significant for ours. There is joy in hope and power in prayer. Our work is to love each other and to zealously serve the Lord. We are called to be generous and hospitable, and as a community we have an opportunity to do just that:

  • Those wishing to give financially to relief efforts may do so by noting disaster relief on their checks in the memo line or by giving toUnited Methodist Commission on Relief (UMCOR). We will also have a special offering during communion this Sunday for Harvey relief.
  • The Responder Training offered this weekend at St. Matthew UMC is full, but there is another being offered next Saturday, September 9, at Coker UMC. Register for the training at Coker UMC HERE.
  • We will have lists of items needed to build flood buckets this Sunday, and stay tuned for a church wide event for assembling flood buckets as well. 
Finally, we are still serving as a medical shelter. This means that worship will again be combined in the Sanctuary this Sunday, September 3. We will worship in an acoustic contemporary style at 8:15, 9:30 and 11am. This means that the instruments will be contemporary, the songs will be hymn-like, and the volume will be managed for the sanctuary. I believe it will be another special Sunday of worship here at University. As we are united to make space for hurting neighbors, so too are we united in combining worship services together. I pray you are able to join us for this special worship opportunity. Believer's Garden Worship will also be available in McCreless Gym.
 
May we continue to pray for all those impacted by Harvey, may we contribute generously to the needs of the saints, and may we continue to extend hospitality to our neighbors.

Blessings,
Pastor Ben

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