Today, we gather as spectators and as participants in a story that stretches back centuries yet speaks directly into the here and now. We stand on the shoulders of those who walked the dusty roads of Judea with Jesus, those who wrestled with questions of authority, stewardship, and faith. As we delve into Mark 12:1-17, […]
Imagine standing at a crossroads, the horizon stretched before you, painted with the bright colors of dawn. This moment, right now, feels like that—a pivotal point in our journey together. As I share the news of my upcoming appointment to McPherson First United Methodist Church, we stand together on the edge of change, between the […]
Just down the road in Kansas City, a tragic event unfolded that captured the attention of many and left us grappling with a sense of loss and confusion. The mass shooting at the Chiefs parade, a moment meant for celebration, turned into a time of mourning. This event prompts us to question the very fabric […]
Imagine, for a moment, you’re at the Super Bowl tonight, with the football team from Kansas City facing off against the team from San Francisco. The energy is electric, the crowd is roaring, and you can feel the tension. Each player on the field has a pivotal role, and their collective efforts could lead to […]
Monday was one of my favorite holidays – Kansas Day! We turned 163 years old as a state. I’m part of the fifth generation of my family living in the Great Plains, but our roots go back to Northwest and Eastern Europe. On the occasion of Kansas Day, we were reminded to honor the courage […]
We love Scouting! The Conard Family We had a blast at Falley Scout Reservation during Cub Scout summer camp in 2020. John and Anne are working to earn their way to camp next summer with popcorn sales. Will you support our scouting adventures? Use these links to place an order and get popcorn shipped directly […]
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 […]
With a 4.5 mile run today, I recorded 1,0002 activities with the RunKeeper app. I have had on and off seasons of running over the years. Here’s a snapshot of my mileage each month. One of the gaps in 2018 was when I switched to using MapMyRun for a bit. Now, I am day 260 […]
This view feels long ago and far away. I haven’t stayed in a hotel, much less one big enough to have an atrium, since I can’t remember when. Travel is only one of the aspects of life that is much different these days. This view feels long ago and far away. I haven’t stayed in […]
This corner marks a turning point – in the structure and materials. The wall turns at a right angle and changes in composition and color. The bricks and stones are different, while the purpose of the wall remains the same. It supports the roof and makes space for rooms inside. Local churches may or may […]
Churches can learn from big bluestem. This picture is of this native plant putting out new spring growth. Once established, this grass can be burned, mowed, or otherwise cut back and grow again. It draws strength from its roots, which have made their way deep into the soil. The church has roots in the good […]
One of my favorite spaces in Kansas is Botanica. It is a beautiful community garden in downtown Wichita. I took this picture years ago on the way out of the Downing Children’s Garden. This garden’s design is for children with whimsical statues, musical instruments, and surprises around each corner on the path. When we lived […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 