It’s beautiful to be back with you after my time away. These past days have been a journey of spiritual renewal and rest, filled with moments of reflection and rejuvenation. Time away has reminded me of the importance of pausing, listening, and opening ourselves to God’s presence in unexpected places. Today, we focus on a […]
As we stand just a month from election day, our nation buzzes with promises, debates, and visions for the future. It’s a time when golden calves of politics and charismatic leaders vie for our allegiance. Yet, how often do we find ourselves, like the Israelites at the foot of Mount Sinai, growing impatient with God’s […]
Have you ever felt like singing was the last thing you wanted to do? You may have faced a challenge so daunting that praise seemed impossible. As we lift our voices in “Lift Every Voice and Sing” today, we’re reminded of times when raising one’s voice is an act of defiance against despair. The Israelites […]
Family stories have a way of shaping us, don’t they? Whether it’s the tales of our grandparents’ sacrifices, the funny anecdotes shared at reunions, or even the painful chapters we’d rather forget – these narratives form the fabric of who we are. As we reflect on our church’s 150-year journey, we’re reminded that we, too, […]
From generation to generation, for 150 years, our congregation has been a testament to God’s enduring faithfulness. As we celebrate this milestone today, we’re reminded of Abraham gazing at the stars, each point of light representing a promise that would unfold across centuries. Have you ever considered how your faith today connects to those who […]
I find something magical about the Kansas State Fair. The aroma of funnel cakes, the excited shouts from midway rides, and the proud displays of prized pumpkins and handcrafted quilts create a uniquely Kansas experience. My family, perhaps like yours, has been coming to this fair for generations. So, some places, like the Domestic Arts […]
The Paralympic Games begin on Wednesday in Paris. Athletes will take their marks, set their stance, and launch into action. Today, we find the disciples in a similar position at the beginning of the book of Acts – poised on the starting blocks of a world-changing mission. But unlike those Olympians who relied on years […]
Have you ever walked into a room full of strangers, feeling your heart race and your palms sweat? Perhaps you’ve moved to a new city, joined a new club, or attended a gathering where you didn’t know a soul. That feeling of being an outsider, a stranger in an unfamiliar place, is a universal human […]
As we gather on this Back to School Sunday, having blessed our students’ backpacks, we’re reminded of new beginnings, the excitement—and yes, sometimes fear—of stepping into the unknown. Today, we begin our journey in a new worship series – “Do Unto Others: A Campaign for Kindness.” We hope this is a timely series as we […]
I recently had the opportunity to serve as a reserve delegate from the Great Plains Annual Conference at the 2020(4) United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. This historic gathering brought together delegates from around the world to make important decisions that will impact the future of our church. When I returned, a Sunday […]
Day 10 of the UMC General Conference 2020(4) began with the commissioning of global missionaries during worship, highlighting the core of Methodism as a missionary movement. The celebration of the Mission Bicentennial emphasized that mission belongs to God, and we are all invited to participate in it. The afternoon session started with the final portion […]
Day 9 of the UMC General Conference 2020(4) started with an early morning prayer for Bishop David Wilson from the Great Plains as he prepared to preach during morning worship. Bishop Wilson’s message emphasized the common ground we share as United Methodists and the importance of making decisions that will positively impact the next seven […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 