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Dear Perry Methodist Church Family,
This month, we will formally transition from Perry UMC to Perry Methodist Church. Below is an important update about the details and an invitation to become a member of PMC. We won’t be simply forwarding our membership roll from the old to the new entity. But before we dive into the denominational details, let me share what’s most important to me as your pastor. At the end of the day, it’s not the name of our church that matters most—though it is significant. What truly matters is this: Are we a church that genuinely follows Jesus Christ? Are you a true Christian, or just going through the motions? That’s why I’m excited about the messages God has laid on my heart for September.
September Sermon Series:
True Christian
The Book of James isn't an optional add-on to the Christian life—it's essential. As we journey through this powerful letter, we will hold up a mirror to ourselves. When we look in, do we see the reflection of a true Christian? And when we step away, does that reflection remain? Are we wearing masks to feel good about ourselves, or are we living out the faith we profess? Join us this September as we examine what it truly means to live as a follower of Christ, both in and out of the mirror's view.
Week 1: "Reflections of Faith: Seeing Beyond the Surface"
James 1:17-27
Are we hearers of the Word or doers? This week, we begin by looking at what it means to live out our faith in action, not just in words.
Week 2: "Faith with Feet: Walking the Talk”
James 2:1-17
True faith isn’t just belief—it’s belief in action. We’ll explore how genuine faith manifests itself in works of love and justice.
Week 3: "Words That Echo: The Power of the Tongue"
James 3:1-12
Our words have power—power to build up or to destroy. This week, we’ll consider how a true Christian speaks and what that reveals about our hearts.
Week 4: "Heavenly Wisdom: Living Above the Fray"
James 3:13 – 4:8
There’s a difference between worldly wisdom and the wisdom that comes from God. We’ll examine how to seek and live by this divine wisdom in our daily lives.
Week 5: "Praying with Purpose: Unleashing the Power of Prayer"
James 5:13-20
A true Christian knows the power of prayer. We’ll conclude our series by looking at how prayer can heal, restore, and unite us as a community of believers.
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Denominational Transition Update:
As we continue the transition from the UMC to the GMC, we’re nearing the end of our departure process and are excited about what lies ahead. We’re close to securing enough departure funds, but there’s still an opportunity to contribute if you haven’t yet. Our facility is ready for the walkthrough from our District Superintendent, and we remain deeply grateful to our brothers and sisters in the UMC for their faithfulness, kindness, and fairness throughout this journey.
While we don’t yet know the formal closing date, sometime in September, we will officially close as Perry UMC and open as Perry Methodist Church. Remember, this transition doesn’t mean we expect all current members of PUMC to automatically join PMC. We encourage everyone to pray and seriously consider whether they want to continue forward as members of our local church as it joins the GMC.
If you are a current member of PUMC and wish to become a member of PMC, simply let the Church Office know. If you’re not currently a member but are interested in joining, we’ll have a membership class on Sunday, October 13, at 10am in the FLC. All are welcome, even if you’re already a member—sometimes, we all need a refresher! Sign up for the class on our website.
For those with reservations about us joining the GMC, that’s completely understandable. There’s no pressure or rush. You are, and always will be, a part of our church family here, regardless of membership status. My hope and prayer is that we will all grow together and see what God has for us in this next season of the life of our incredible, historic church. I'm excited. Who's with me? See you Sunday!
Grace and Peace,
Tom
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