There is a lot happening in the month of June in the life of our church. You might read that line and think, there is a lot happening within my own life in the month of June! Let me start with this reminder: you cannot do it all. There is no possible way to do everything you want to do. Pray this quick prayer with me; “Lord, help me prioritize my schedule according to your will. Amen!” Now, say that again. When you wake up tomorrow, pray it again. As you look at the calendar for your month, meditate on it again.
Let’s talk about all the things happening. As members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, we are reminded the month of June is Pride month. In taking seriously our call to inclusion, faith in action, and community, which dictates our life at Sewickley United Methodist Church, we will be participating in many of the activities offered this month. Those activities include hosting a booth at the Pittsburgh Pride Festival on June 6th and marching in the Pittsburgh Pride Parade on June 7th. We will be participating with members of the Sewickley Community in the first ever Sewickley Pride Festival on June 27th. The following Sunday, June 28th, we will hear from a member of the trans community and what their journey has been like, with specific attention given to their walk with Jesus.
In addition to all the Pride activities, our community celebrates and recognizes Juneteenth as a significant milestone in American history. The Sewickley Community Center will lead the celebrations on June 13th from 2:00–7:00 pm. The following day, on Sunday, June 14th, we will worship with our siblings from St. Matthews AME Zion Church in a combined worship service at 10:30 am at SUMC. We will honor our graduates during the service, and a picnic at War Memorial Park will follow. The next Sunday, June 21st, we will host Donuts with Dad or that especially important male figure in your life.
I know I didn’t even mention that vacation you are taking, that graduation party you are planning or going to, or the fact that Leap of Faith will be hosting the worship at Annual Conference this year, and the Charles Wesley Music Foundation will be welcoming back Voces Solis on June 7th and hosting the Pittsburgh Girls Choir on June 20th. By the way, what was that work event you are a part of? Also, be sure to spend time with your family and take care of yourself! HA!
All joking aside, do yourself the greatest favor as you discern how you will spend your time this month, as these are all important things, and pray this prayer, “Lord, help me prioritize my time according to your will.” I’ll see you there! Amen!
From one light to many others,
Pastor Hannah Loughman
P.S. A listing of these activities with greater detail can be found in the newsletter.