United Methodist Church of Merced

06/03/2026

In this piece from Emily Hilderbrand, Minnesota Conference Faith Formation and Evangelism Connector, she explores five spiritual practices that can help anyone connect with thinking and acting for the environment. These spiritual practices take individuals from internal contemplation to external ch...

06/03/2026

"My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant" - Luke 1:47-48

In these verses of praise, often called The Magnificat, Mary expresses her joy in being seen and loved by God. The Magnificat reminds us that God notices those the world often overlooks and brings hope to humble hearts.

💭 Where have you experienced God’s care and presence in unexpected or humble moments?

06/03/2026

"Each little flower that opens,
each little bird that sings,
God made their glowing colors,
and made their tiny wings." 🎶

"All Things Bright and Beautiful" (no. 147 in The United Methodist Hymnal) was written by Cecil Frances Alexander, an Irish writer, in 1848. It notes the work of God's creation in both the majestic--like "purple-headed mountains--and the minute--like an open flower. It invites in us an awareness of God's work around us.

🎵 "God gave us eyes to see them,
and lips that we might tell
how great is God Almighty,
who has made all things well."

💭 Where are you noticing God's good works today?

06/01/2026

Summer fun for kids at UMC Merced!

05/30/2026

05/13/2026

Christians continue to be moved by the Holy Spirit as they join in a transformative mission of sharing God’s love with all people.

05/13/2026

The church is like a house with many rooms. But its true “living room” is not inside the building—it begins outside its doors, where people are called by the Spirit of love rather than by the sound of bells.
Jesus said, “On this Rock I will build my Church.” There has long been debate about what the “Rock” means. Perhaps it referred to Peter, whose name means “rock.” Peter, like all believers, needed guidance in the teachings of Jesus so he could help lead the Church. Good teachers and thoughtful homilies are important parts of church life—but they are only one small part of a living Church.
I believe the deepest and most essential “Rock” is the one described in the meme: people who live out love, compassion, kindness, and service. To “be the church” is not simply to attend a building, but to become a living expression of God’s love in the world.

05/10/2026

All are welcome at the United Methodist Church of Merced. Come join us for worship at 10 am.
• In person: 899 Yosemite Pkwy @ 10 a.m. • Online: youtube.com//stream

05/10/2026

We follow Jesus’ example and resist and dismantle all systems of evil, injustice, and oppression, striving for peace, justice, and reconciliation.