Better Together

We couldn’t have asked for better weather or better fellowship for Monaca & Aliquippa First UMCs’ third annual combined outdoor worship service and picnic, which was held on Saturday, August 20th at John A. Antoline Park in Monaca!

After attendees sang “Amazing Grace” together, Pastor Jim read from Jeremiah 29 and asked everyone in attendance to break into small groups to discuss the passage’s meaning.

Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.

—Jeremiah 29:7

After the groups shared highlights from their discussions, Pastor Jim summarized the importance of listening to one another and building community together as part of One Church.

Worship closed with another hymn and a blessing over the picnic. The potluck that followed was impressive, featuring freshly grilled ’burgers and dogs with many sides and desserts to scoop, dip, spread, crunch, munch, and otherwise dish onto overflowing plates.

Special thanks to Janet Cox, Tina Marki, and the Nurture Outreach & Witness Committee of Aliquippa First UMC for coordinating this year’s event, to our grilling team of Denny Houser, Mike McCullough, and John Hesser, to those involved in the set-up and clean-up, to everyone who brought food or games, and to those who helped in any other way!

We’re already looking forward to next year’s event!