Lent: A Time to Follow the Spirit

Sundays, February 26 – April 2

9:45 am, in the Nursery

This small group experience will use a newly released resource to explore issues of diversity, equity, inclusion and faith. Together we will learn and practice Lectio Divina, a peaceful practice of listening, reflecting and discussing a reading from the Bible. Each class will include:

• Welcome and check in
• Scripture reading
• Lectio Divina
• Reflection and discussion

This new group is open to anyone who wants to deepen their connection to the Spirit during the six weeks of Lent. There is no homework and there are no prerequisites; just a real opportunity to connect and reflect with others in our church community. The group will be co-lead by Sharon McCarthy and Donna Anderson. Please feel free to talk to either of them, or contact them by email: mccarthy@andrew.cmu.edu (Sharon) or revmom23@gmail.com (Donna).

Open and Relational Theology

Sundays: Feb 26, March 5, 19, 26, April 2, 16, 23

9:45 am, in the Parlor

Facilitated by Joe Smith, the Seeker’s class will study the book Open and Relational Theology, by Thomas Jay Oord. This accessible, non-technical book presents a radical vision of the world and human suffering that matches our deepest intuition about the character of God. In one session (April 2), Dr. Oord will join us by zoom for Q&R. Reading the book is not a requirement to join the discussion, but if you would like a copy, please contact Joe: joe@fumcpittsburgh.org.

Buddhism for Lent

Fridays: Feb 24, March 3, 17, 24, 31

1:00-2:30 pm, in the Parlor

This down-to-earth introduction will explore both Buddhist philosophy and practice. We’ll compare Buddhist philosophy with Christian theology and consider how Buddhist practice might be incorporated into Christian spirituality. Facilitated by RoBEAR Wilson and Joe Smith

Films of Faith

In line with the duality of Lent messages given in worship, that FUMC is continuing to wrestle with racism and taking steps to learning about what it means to be anti-racist, the movies shown this year will promote conversations concerning where is God in race relations. These films are adult in nature, except for Zootopia, the last movie shown which will be a family movie time shown after church with pizza for lunch. There will be intentional questions asked that may challenge the understanding of our theology.

All movies have met the 2-hour maximum show time. Each movie will be shown on a different day and time. Last year Sunday evening was not a great night for folks to come back to church.  Perhaps we can find a good night and day.  Popcorn will be provided at all showings!

Monday, February 27 – 4:00 pm: “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”

1967: Sidney Poitier, Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn, Katharine Houghton

A couple’s attitudes are challenged when their daughter introduces them to her African-American fiancé.

Tuesday, March 7 – 6:00 pm: “Gran Torino”

2008: Clint Eastwood, Bee Vang Thao, Christopher Carley, Ahney Her

Disgruntled Korean War veteran Walt Kowalski sets out to reform his neighbor, Thao Lor, a Hmong teenager who tried to steal Kowalski’s prized possession: a 1972 Gran Torino.

Wednesday, March 15 – 6:30 pm (Immediately after Prayer Vigil): “Brian’s Song”

1971 (made for TV): James Caan, Billy Dee Williams, Jack Warden, Bernie Casey

Based on the real-life relationship between teammates Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers and the bond established when Piccolo discovers he is dying.

Thursday, March 23 – 2:00pm: “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas”

Through the innocent eyes of Bruno, the eight-year-old son of the commandant at a german concentration camp, s forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side of camp fence has startling and unexpected consequences.

Sunday, March 26 – 12:45pm – pizza lunch – Family Day: “Zootopia”

2016: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Jenny Slate, Bonnie Hunt

In a city of anthropomorphic animals, a rookie bunny cop and a cynical con artist fox must work together to uncover a conspiracy.