Fork United Methodist Church

09/04/2026

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12: 1-2

In Iceland, there are many church buildings scattered throughout the countryside—wherever there was a cluster of houses. There may not be a gas station for 150 miles, but in that span, there were a dozen churches. The weather there is brutal for seven months of the year so it makes sense to have a place to worship somewhere close by. Clearly, worship together as a faith community is a priority. Paul reminds us in Romans that in worship, we are transformed and learn how to discern God’s will. It takes some practice and we learn from each other as we do so. Worship is important for our spiritual well-being. As the Labor Day weekend permits a respite from work, recommit yourself to His presence in your life!

Pastor Karin (Photo by Joan Papier)

09/04/2026

09/03/2026

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!' Isaiah 52:7

It doesn’t matter how big or small your feet are, you have the ability to spread God’s love and grace. The ways you smile, share a word of welcome with others, encourage a young person in your life, listen to one who just needs your time, or making a meal for someone who could use a helping hand all are great ways to remind others of God’s love through your hands and heart.

It is really that simple. Put on your shoes, walk through the world with joy and empathy, and know that God is with you!

Pastor Karin

09/02/2026

I am the vine and you are the branches; If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. John 15: 5

The tomatoes are all turning red and filling out the vine. Jesus’ image of Him as the vine and us as the branches is a good reminder that there isn’t much that can happen to the tomatoes that fall off the vine, while they are still green. You can put them in a brown paper bag to help them turn red but they don’t taste the same. The best way to grow is to be connected to the vine where the good stuff comes from. Great words to remember as we pray for our families, our faith, and the future!

Pastor Karin

09/01/2026

“But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Eagles are a national symbol which represent strength and power. I love to watch them soar high and free. This year marks 25 years since 9/11. It is a good reminder about how important our freedom is and the price that has been paid.

We will commemorate the day on Thursday, September 10 at 6:30pm at Fallston Church, outback in Friendship Meadow. If it rains, we will go inside.

We will remember first responders and the many heroes that walked into danger on that day 25 years ago. We will remember lives lost and hear directly from a survivor of that day.

On days like this, when we gather as a community to worship, we do indeed renew our strength and soar like eagles, with gratitude in our hearts for God’s guidance, grace, and peace.

Pastor Karin

08/31/2026

A prayer for the beginning of school, and the people of Nepal.

Lord God,

As school now will be underway for everyone, we give you thanks for those who are called to teach and administrate, and help within the schools. May they be inspired and encouraged as the new year begins. We pray for teachers and children that they might approach learning with a new enthusiasm.

Help each school to be a place of safety, respect, and belonging. May all find friends and confidence, knowing Your presence in the midst of every day. When challenges arise, remind us of the strength, guidance, and peace you provide.

Today we also pray for the people of Nepal as they face the devastation of recent flooding. We grieve for those who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and communities. Bring comfort to those who are grieving, and healing to those who are injured. Comfort those who are overwhelmed by the losses. Be near to first responders, relief workers, and all who are providing aid and rescue. Give wisdom and endurance to leaders and agencies working to bring assistance and recovery. Move our hearts with compassion as we find ways to be instruments of Your grace, sharing generosity, encouragement, and hope wherever there is need.

Into Your loving hands we place this school year and the people of Nepal. Guide us, protect us, and help us to walk in faith, trusting in Your goodness every day.

In Jesus' name we pray. Amen

08/28/2026

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. Exodus 20:12

Think about the people who have shaped your life and faith. For many of us, parents are part of that story, but so are grandparents, mentors, teachers, pastors, coaches, and friends who helped point us in the right direction. This command reminds us to practice gratitude for the people God has used to guide us and keep us steady along the way. Honoring them doesn’t mean pretending every relationship was perfect, but perhaps we can still recognize the good along the way. Today, reach out to one person who has shaped your life or faith, and thank them!

Pastor Danny

08/27/2026

Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Exodus 20:8

Maybe another important reminder that you aren't a machine, and rest isn't laziness. Sabbath rest is a way of trusting that the world keeps turning even when we stop. Many of us carry that pressure to always be available or to always be productive or needed. Sabbath reminds us that our worth isn’t measured by how much we get done. Set aside one small pocket of time today to stop, breathe, and be present with God.

Pastor Danny