The call to deepen our spiritual lives and inspire faithfulness among Friends moved FUM to launch the first Stoking the Fire retreat in 2015. This year, the gathering goes virtual as we adjust to a world still fighting a pandemic. We’ll be gathering over Zoom on May 21–23.
Read MoreOn Sunday February 28, a number of area pastors gathered for worship and dedication, along with FUM Africa Programme Officers Shawn and Katrina McConaughey, and former Samburu Director Sammy Letoole. Shawn McConaughey shared from 1 Peter 5 the advice to shepherd the flock—not under compulsion, but willingly and with humility. To a group of people who are largely shepherds, this was advice to which they could all relate. Then the group of pastors gathered around Daniel, laid hands on him, and offered prayers of dedication. Nothing will be perfect, but if we keep our eyes focused on the Good Shepherd, we will all be in good hands. Let us all pray together for the work of Samburu Friends Mission.
Read MoreThe lessons for this Sunday describe signs of God that appear in the midst of everyday life. Joseph was an example of faithfulness, even when the signs he perceived were unclear, even mysterious. When we have been “fed with the bread of tears,” scorned and ridiculed, we long to be restored by God.
Read MoreSeveral years ago, I was inspired by the one of ten in the Gospel account, so I started the spiritual practice of “returning.” On a sheet of paper, I counted my many blessings, identifying places that were transformative in my life and people who have influenced and encouraged me along the way. My list became quite long. Then, when possible, I returned to those places and people to simply say, “Thank you.” I have had opportunities to return to my childhood church in Burundi, teachers, family members, pastors, colleagues, high school, friends, the youth camp where I answered the call to ministry, and other places of blessings.
Read MoreThroughout our history, the people known as Friends (or Quakers) keep rediscovering an essential and enduring truth: There is one who speaks to our most basic needs and most significant hopes—Christ Jesus the Lord. Both individually and communally, we are learning to know and follow the Voice that guides us in the way we should go. Together, we seek to understand and obey that truth which sets us free. As a people, we share in the experience of that powerful life which makes all things new. Maybe you are searching for an authentic and transforming faith and community to call home—if so, come in and join us as we seek to know and follow Christ.
Friends United Meeting commits itself to energize and equip Friends through the power of the Holy Spirit to gather people into fellowships where Jesus Christ is known, loved, and obeyed as Teacher and Lord.