September at Centenary: A Month of Grace!
The United Methodist Book of Discipline defines grace as "the undeserved, unmerited, and loving action of God in human existence through the ever-present Holy Spirit." Grace pervades all of creation and is universally present. Grace isn’t only a gift that God packages and bestows on us and creation; grace is God's presence to create, heal, forgive, reconcile, and transform human hearts, communities, and the entire creation. Wherever God is present, there is grace!
Methodism’s founder John Wesley was adamant that Christians aren’t meant to passively wait to experience grace. We’re called to constantly seek God through what Wesley called “the means of grace.” Means of grace are tried and true ways that God’s loving, healing, forgiving presence and power can be perceived and acted upon.
This Sunday marks the second sermon in a three-week series on spiritual formation. Spiritual formation is the process of becoming more like Jesus. This week, I’ll discuss “works of piety,” those acts of devotion and worship we engage in to show our faith and love for God and to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives.
Works of piety can be personal or communal. Personal works of piety include prayer, meditation, and scripture reading, which often take place in private or small groups. Communal works of piety include sharing in sacraments and Bible study.
John Wesley believed works of piety were vital because they helped believers pursue holiness in a spiritual world of conflict.
On September 22nd, Pastor Tyler will preach on “works of mercy,” or acts of justice and compassion. On September 29th, we’ll conclude an exciting and busy September with Centenary’s 252nd birthday as we celebrate Homecoming at a combined 11:00 service. Former Associate Pastor Rick Moser will preach, and we’ll have a congregational feast afterward.
We hope you’ll join us for an inspiring month of praise, spiritual growth, and fellowship. Come see us and bring a friend or neighbor.
~Pastor Vann
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