As we gather this Sunday after a momentous election, our nation continues to process varied emotions and reactions to the results. Some feel elated, others disappointed; some hopeful, others uncertain. In times of such division, Jonah’s story speaks powerfully to us. Like today, his world knew deep social and political fractures. He faced the challenge […]
In Manhattan last night, both teams faced pivotal moments. For KU, a crucial fumble ended their hopes of breaking a sixteen-year drought. For K-State, wisdom under pressure led to a game-winning field goal. These moments of decision – whether to dive forward or protect the ball, trust your preparation, or doubt yourself – reveal some […]
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 […]
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 […]
Susanna Wesley UMC has a long history of caring for children and families. For years we have offered before and after school care for students at Indian Hills Elementary School, located right next door to our building. This year, the Auburn-Washburn school district is opening a hybrid model for in-person learning, which means placing students […]
On Monday, we enrolled our children in First and Second Grade at Berryton Elementary School. While we have driven by the building, this was our very first time inside. We filled out all the papers, received a quick tour of the building and found their classrooms. It was another milestone in our season of transition […]
Earlier this week, I met with the Resurrection West Missions team. This is a fantastic group of people in the congregation who are committed to transforming communities. This team is responsible for one of the strategic objectives that we have as a congregation at West for this year. Here it is: “In order to be […]
I hope to build deep social connections with others. I know that deep friendships have a great deal of positive benefit in my life. Friends are people with whom I can share encouragement, accountability, fun, conversation, support and a wide variety of interactions. As a pastor, there are times when I feel the distinction when […]
Today is the 234th Flag Day in the United States. It was on this day in 1774 that the Second Continental Congress adopted the flag of the United States. You may notice some more flags around this week on government buildings and in your neighborhood. Will you celebrate Flag Day or National Flag Week? If […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 