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Circuit Writer - Pastor David's Article

A violent and turbulent season has griped our nation. Protests have called for injustice to be addressed both in systemic and cultural realities. We find the same racial conflicts seen in the early church between Jewish and Gentile audiences continue to manifest themselves in modern communities. The acts of aggression, separation, and unequal balances of power ravage the relationships we share in Christ.

 The Council of Bishops are asking United Methodists to read about anti-racism and speak with children, youth and adults about the subject. They also request that United Methodists join in prayer for at least 30 days at 8:46am and 8:46pm for 8:46 minutes, the length of time a Minneapolis police officer held his knee on the neck of George Floyd, killing the 46-year-old African American.

Tragic long histories of murders that are the product of racist systems that devalue lives of color and dehumanize all of us. Just this January and February, we used a study on: The Gospel and Race. This series of sermons is still available at our website with audio files. We have included four weeks of study guides to expand your conversations and study.

There were also some thoughts for meditation provided during this series: Gospel & Race Resources

• “While it’s rarely necessary to die for the sake of another, genuine love usually involves some level of sacrifice. As Christians, we are to show unconditional, selfless love to others—just as Jesus did for us.”—Charles F. Stanley
•  “Learn to know Christ and him crucified. Learn to sing to him, and say, ‘Lord Jesus, you are my righteousness, I am your sin. You have taken upon yourself what is mine and given me what is yours. You have become what you were not so that I might become what I was not.’” —Martin Luther
• “If you judge people you have no time to love them.” —Mother Teresa
• “Frequently there appears on the stage of history individuals who have the insight to look beyond the inadequacies of the old order and see the necessity for the new.” —Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

 Lastly, I would offer into this conversation a piece on YouTube that speaks to the anger and pain of our nation. Phil Vischer — creator of “VeggieTales” and voice of Bob the Tomato in the popular Christian animated series — posted a now viral video called “Race in America” that attempts to answer the question: “Why are people so angry?”   

Join me in a season of prayer and action. Hear the direction of the Prophet Isaiah when he says:

 Learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.  Isaiah 1:17 (NRSV)

There is no more important moment for the church to bridge the unspoken pain of racism, to support those within law enforcement given the nearly impossible task of being a voice of calm and equality, and judicial systems that have too often been a double standard of justice instead of equal justice for all.

Grace and Peace,
Pastor David

Memorial Day 2020

Armstrong Chapel – 142nd Memorial Day Observance – May 2020

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, is a day for remembering and honoring those who have given their lives in battle. The day is also known as Decoration Day for the custom of placing flags at the graves of the patriotic dead. The Cemetery at Armstrong Chapel has long maintained this tradition and will do so again this year. However, the Stay Safe Order for Ohio restricts the number of those who gather together. Therefore, the following are elements to help you observe this day and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The Cemetery will be open during daylight hours but we ask that you maintain social distancing of 6ft minimum should you visit the grounds. We also ask the use of masks when possible during public activities.

 Prayer for Memorial Day
You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress…” (Psalm 91). On this Memorial Day, may we pause with reverence before you, Eternal God, to remember the lives of those fallen in this nation’s conflicts. Here in this sacred ground are lives representing virtually each broken moment of human history our nation has endured. Through our prayers and actions, help us to stand together with those who are suffering, so that light may banish all darkness, love will prevail over hate and good will triumph over evil. Grant comfort with all those who grieve this day. Bestow your loving protection. Let peace prevail among all the nations, O God. Move us to know, take hold and treasure your saving grace, the security your Spirit provides, and the refuge that is granted to those who trust in you. In all our days helps us to pause and remember, then offer us the courage to commit our lives to your eternal keeping both now and forever.  Amen

Roll Call Listing

Tanner Helton, a Scout from Indian Hill Troop 502, standing at the grave of his 5^th
great grandfather, Major John Armstrong, who fought in the War of 1812.

Worship Schedule Update

March 13, 2020

 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”—Isaiah 41:10

Dear Members and Friends of Armstrong Chapel,

 Due to the unprecedented nature of the Corona virus Pandemic, and the continuously changing situation, our highest priority must be the health and safety of our family and friends. Based on the recommendations of Governor DeWine and Bishop Palmer, the Leadership of Armstrong Chapel has decided to cancel all worship services for this Sunday, March 15 and March 22.  We will continue to review how and when we will resume normal worship services.

However, we have decided that we will continue our ministries and small group gatherings.  These decisions will be left up to individual leaders and their groups. If you have questions or individual needs, please contact your group leader directly. During this period, we will not share any food or beverages at Armstrong Chapel. Please note that the Wednesday Lenten gathering will still be held but without dinner.

 We strongly urge that individuals in high risk groups take all the necessary steps to protect themselves and avoid group gatherings.

 Because of the short notice, we ask that you reach out to family and friends to make sure they are aware of this announcement. Phone calls and word of mouth will guarantee that everyone is informed.

Over the next two weeks we will be providing spiritual resources and connections to one another. Should you have individual needs contact the church office and staff. Our prayers will continue. Thank you again for your understanding and patience during these trying times.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. David W. Brown
Lead Pastor    

Jay VanWinkle
Leadership Team Chair