Kidder Memorial United Methodist Church

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Welcome to Kidder Memorial United Methodist Church!

Summer 2021

Dear Friends,

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1st Thessalonians 5:18). I disliked this Scripture verse because I used to think it was saying, “Give thanks for all circumstances.” But that’s not what the verse says. It says, “Give thanks in all circumstances.” There’s a difference. I don’t think God expects our gratitude for war or tragedies. But in the midst of so many life difficulties, we can develop a grateful heart. We can learn to give thanks in all circumstances. Helen Keller, one of Time Magazine’s top one hundred persons of the twentieth century, a woman who couldn’t see nor hear said, “Everything has its wonders, even darkness and silence, and I learn, whatever state I may be in, therein to be content.” May her example help us develop a greater sense of gratitude for our many gifts and help us grow closer to God.

One of the unseen but powerful acts of love is our Prayer Chain Ministry. Led by Shirley Wigren and Allene Gilbert, urgent prayer concerns are shared and prayers offered on behalf of many. Lay Leader Paula Rounds shares the prayer concerns via email. This ministry has been one of the spiritual anchors of Kidder Memorial. Call the church office 488-1680 or Shirley (her number is in our church directory).

Recently our church celebrated four young people confirming their faith. We also welcomed two young children in baptism. We welcomed a missionary family on leave and honored Becky Luhman as our congregation’s lay person of the year. We are grateful that COVID-19 restrictions have eased. Social distancing is still recommended for those not vaccinated, but we’re singing in worship and all the pews are open! It was a great delight to instruct our worshippers to “open your hymnals” once again.

Thanks to generous givers, we’ve purchased a new desktop and a lap top computer. Our wireless network is being upgraded, making our online presence stronger. If you can’t make it to worship in person, you can still join us Sunday mornings at 10 via U-Tube for live Sunday worship. The link is on our web site, kidderchurch.com. If you missed a Sunday, you can even click on the link for previous Sunday services.

Our small but mighty Praise Band continues to lead us in music worship, spelled monthly by our own Saved By Grace trio. Both groups give their time and talents so freely to enhance our worship. We are so grateful!

Kidder Kids, a vacation Bible School-styled experience for children 5 to 12 years, continues to meet on alternate Wednesday evenings at 6 throughout the summer. Leader Jennifer McQuiggan always finds creative ways for the young people to have fun and learn about the Bible and Jesus’ love. We are planning a family movie night or two this summer! Call the office (488-1680) for details.

Kidder Memorial practices Christian hospitality by hosting a number of community groups including a weekly 12 Step workshop, a Family Peer Support Group, a Boy Scout troop and a Cub Scout pack.

We are blessed, and hope to be a blessing to many! God’s peace be with you!

God’s Love and Hope to you,