We invite you to enjoy a previously recorded radio ministry as heard on WYSL Radio; AM 1040 & 92.1 FM. To get started, click or tap Download Service below. There is also an accompanying bulletin for most of them. These broadcasts can be heard Sundays on the radio 7:30 AM-8 AM on WYSL Radio; AM 1040 & 92.1 FM. Radio ministry is outlined in our monthly newsletter which is now available here on the website using the newsletter button at the top of the page.
“The Power of Fellowship” with Pastor DJ Robinson from 05/07/17. It is one thing to have fellowship within a group, but many of those outside also want to be part of something that has a greater purpose. We find solidarity in love, even in the face of adversity. How do we encourage others to join us, united and working together for something larger than ourselves?
“Christ the King” with Pastor Hector Rivera from 11/20/16. Christ has established a Kingdom of God for us. Seek this Kingdom, and you will receive the blessings of God. God always takes care of His people. We may not always understand His workings, but He will bring us everything that we need.
“Perfect Love Casts Out Fear” with Pastor Kim Ferrel from 10/11/15. Do you ever feel lost? How do we react when we are unable to find our way? The more fearful we become, the more likely we are to hurt others. We do not have to feel afraid if we trust in God’s perfect love. “Faith is not the absence of fear, but the courage to walk through it.”
“The Lord’s Prayer” with members of The Prayer Team from 11/12/17. Laity Sunday is celebrated with members of our Prayer Team discussing a deeper understanding of this most famous Christian prayer, in order to deepen our understanding of the process and power of all prayer to God.
“This, and Not That” with Pastor DJ Robinson from 02/12/17. As in Moses’ time, the choice to follow a spiritual or political leader does not absolve us from the individual responsibility to chart our own path. How do we choose “this path” and not “that one” in making choices? How we respond to God’s directives is up to each of us.
“A Drink of Water” with Advance Lay Servant David Jacobus from 10/27/19. How long can a single drink of water support us? David stresses that we need regular and ongoing spiritual refreshment in order to sustain us through our daily challenges. What kind of behaviors satisfy this need? Plus, a return of former accompanist Michael Burke and special music with the choir.
“Stone Soup” with Pastor Mia Richardson from 11/10/19. Pastor Mia retells the classic story of “Stone Soup” and then uses select scriptural passages related to stones and rocks to create her own special mix of Biblical nourishment containing hope and inspiration for all.
“Living in the World” with Pastor Kim Ferrel from 10/06/13. How are we to be Christian in this world? God gives us courage to live in the world but not of the world, and Spirit strengthens us to overcome all things. (With a prayerful 2013 approach to handling 2021+ political divisiveness!) Plus a special Communion-in-the-round observance with the choir.
“Hold On” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman on 10/01/17. We often see what we expect to see, and believe what we are accustomed to believing. Perhaps it is easier for many, to see a world without God when tragedy strikes or challenges continue unabated. How do we see God among us, especially when the world is full of misfortune?
“Rise and Shine” with Pastor DJ Robinson from 02/26/17. DJ compares a harrowing travel experience in the middle of the night with our spiritual “Voice of Navigation” helping us know where to turn, giving us insight into where we are, and how to choose the path forward. DJ urges everyone to “Turn on your high beams so that people can see the light of God in you!”
“In a Light, Radiant Cloud” with Pastor Mary Martin on 02/15/15. A transfiguration sermon inspired by a snowy mountain. Mountaintop experiences are special because we live our ordinary lives in the valleys, ever aspiring to climb higher to be closer to God. But if we trust God enough, He will help us get to the top!
“Blown On, Blown Out” with Pastor Kim Ferrel on 06/12/11, Pentecost Sunday. God’s power is displayed in the rushing wind through the Holy Spirit. A storm from afar can lead to a storm within! The Holy Spirit calls us out. What is God calling us to do amidst the storms of today?
“Number One Arrow” with Don Mastin on 09/08/13. Bow hunters pre-test their arrows for accuracy in flight, and attempt to correct and then rate them by the standard of their best one. Don offers analogies from a passionate hunter on becoming a better Christian in life. We need to become the very best arrow for God we can be, true and reliable!
“Called to be Witnesses” with Dr. Laurie Tiberi on 06/09/19. How can we share our views with others about God, with confidence and assurance that our messages are effective and being received? It starts with careful listening and awareness of others’ needs, and help from the Holy Spirit.
“An Interview with Accompanist Mark Brennan” from 08/21/16. Mark shares some of his musical talent with us through performance, and dialogue including what brought him to AUMC. (No bulletin.)
“Does God Work on Sunday?” with Paul Brown on 09/14/14. If we are created in God’s image, that image has changed throughout history as we’ve become ever more knowledgeable and aware of our greater reality. We are always trying to “reach for God” based upon our current ability to comprehend His creation. Paul then concludes his message with an original “musical reach for God.”
“A Message from Carin and Natalie” with Pastors Carin Farmer and Natalie Bowerman from the combined outdoor service on 8/13/17. How often do we let our fears get the best of us, keeping us from seeing the living Jesus offering an outstretched hand, or causing us to insist on further assurance before we accept God’s help? What motivates us to trust, to follow, to get back on track with God?
“Caring for Mosquitoes” with Pastor Kim Ferrel on 7/22/12. After reading an article, “A World Without Mosquitoes” Kim googled “Benefit of Mosquitoes” and ultimately decides that despite how we feel about them, God must care for mosquitoes! How do we deal with circumstances in life wherein God seems to show concern and support for our “adversaries” (be they insect or human?)
“God’s Not Done” with Pastor Mia Richardson from 09/15/19. From times of joy in our lives to times of sorrow, God is always with us. The work of Jesus Christ is continuing in God’s creation and He is going to complete His transforming work in each of us. But it takes all of us to share The Good News with others!
“EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED” was the very appropriate first message delivered by Pastor DJ Robinson during her initial Sunday with us on 11/27/16. We often consider an event a failure in our lives if our personal expectations are not met. DJ suggests we need to start expecting less based upon our own desires, and open ourselves to expecting more through God’s interaction in our lives.
“Aliens” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman on 09/16/18. Galileo was charged with heresy by the Catholic Church for proposing that the earth was not the physical center of God’s universe! Can modern Christianity handle a concept of “Disclosure?” Who are we to limit God’s possibilities? Our understanding of God might grow ever larger with an expanding perspective of our earthly reality.
“In the Darkness, Part 2” with Pastor Kim Ferrel on 07/06/14. Reflecting on the enabling and empowering aspects of darkness which can refocus our perceptions such that we see things in ways they cannot be seen when surrounded by light. Plus, Bill and Bob Lewis join us with their annual twin trombone tribute to the 4th and the official beginning of summer!
“In the Darkness” with Pastor Kim Ferrel on 06/29/14. “Why, God… Why?” Where is God in the darkness? Who do we turn to when God seems so far away? Reflecting on some of the limiting and frightful aspects of emotional darkness that can be all-too-familiar to us.
“One Faith, One Hope, One Lord” with guest pastor David Durham on 05/15/11. Thoughts on John 10: 1-10 and how we can interpret it in greater depth. Also, the title song performed by Living Son.
Children’s Day June 2nd, 2013 featuring an original production, “The Butterfly” written by Anne-Claire Markle and performed by the young people of our church. Assisting in this special worship program are Sunday School staff Sue Moses, Lisa Kay Kuchar, and Diane Amey, along with various members of the congregation helping celebrate our wonderful youth!!
“John 3:16” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman on 05/05/19. Probably the very favorite Bible verse of many and the most often shared reference. Natalie explores the cultural history and popularity of this verse, as well as its meaning in light of the verses which precede it. She notes that a favorite verse is one that speaks loudest to each of us, but that could change meaningfully with circumstances.
“Connecting with Community Services” with guest speakers, from 03/09/14. Barb Herman speaks on the Avon Chamber of Commerce, Christine Ryan on the Avon Food Pantry, and Tom Bartilini on the Lions Club and other service organizations. “We are custodians of your money and your trust.”
”Faith-filled Healing” with Pastor Mary Martin on 02/01/15. We rely on the medical community for healing, yet we need God to make our healing a full reality. We all heal through God in different ways; how do you need to be healed? How is God healing us today? The Geneseo UMC choir joins us.
“Marks of the Church” with Pastor Kim Ferrel on 05/11/14. The power of The Holy Spirit brought the first church together in Christ. What defined those early Christians to unite them? What brings us together? In what ways can we share in The Holy Spirit and serve like the early church?
“The Strength of a Mother” with Pastor DJ Robinson on 05/14/17. No explanation necessary!
“Women in the Church” with Pastors Natalie Bowerman and Emily Huyge on 05/19/19. Natalie and her fellow seminary friend, “Em” share perspectives on what it is like to be a woman in the ministry in today’s world. (From Natalie’s series inspired by questions asked by her congregation)
“Jesus and the Church from a Man’s Perspective” with the men of our church on 04/27/14. Speakers Paul Brown: Why do we need Jesus? Jim Tompsett: Why do people need the church? Tim Dickinson: Why do we need the Avon United Methodist Church? Plus a special surprise visit by God during the Children’s Moment.
“Go For a Walk” with Pastor Mary Martin on 04/30/17. How do we recover from a broken heart? The crucifixion aftermath and meaning, from the disciples experience to ours, as individuals and as a church. Also, a celebration of Native American Sunday with Alex Albany.
“Jesus: Crucified and Risen” with Pastor Kim Ferrel on 07/10/16. What do those words mean to you? Kim offers a “July perspective” on an “April event.” What did the crucifixion and resurrection mean within the big picture of our faith? God invites us to also make a difference; how do we respond?
“What Are You Looking For?” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman on 04/01/18. Last in a series adapted from the book, “Questions God Asks of Us.” How did those around Jesus respond following his crucifixion? What are you looking for this day? Natalie responds “uninterrupted sleep” and then goes on to share more serious answers, and guidelines to help all of us think this through.
“Through Death to Life: Humility & Passion” with Pastor DJ Robinson on 04/09/17. How did people in Jesus’s time react when they thought he had let them down? How do others react, when they think the same of us? And how do we react when others don’t live up to our expectations?
“The Resurrection and the Life… do you believe?” with Pastor Kim Ferrel on 04/10/11. Jesus asks us to complete what he has begun. Life gives us opportunities to ask difficult questions, and to be able to believe without seeing first-hand. (The second radio program recorded, back in 2011!)
“By Bread Alone, or God’s Every Word?” with Pastor Mia Richardson on 03/01/20. Lent’s 40 days is a time for reflection on what tempts us, and for gaining freedom from the control of earthly influences through focusing on the Word of God. (Last regular recorded service prior to Pandemic.)
“The God of New Beginnings” with Pastor Mary Martin on 03/31/19. Mary offers seven suggestions for congregations of churches facing new situations using her background at ours as an example... Ideas for turning challenges of the unknown into opportunities for growth and newness.
“Is This Your Reward?” with Pastor DJ Robinson. Originally broadcast 02/19/17. We should go above and beyond what others expect of us when we are challenged or weighed down by them. We have the ability to “rise and shine” through God!
“God Asks Us: Where is Your Brother?” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 03/04/18. What does it mean to “be our brother’s keeper” in this day and age? Natalie and husband, Shawn, share in delivering this timely message.
“Moving Forward” with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast 02/07/16. Can we actually become “a new people?” Are we able to make choices that open us up to new creations, or are we too tied to the past to change? Plus Geneseo UMC choir joins us!
“The Other Cheek… and then?” with Lay Leader, Paul Brown. Originally broadcast 06/26/16. “Turning the other cheek” is a beautiful Christian sentiment, but how do we actually do this in the real world? Paul offers a challenging example from his personal life of how difficult this can be, and yet how he believes it to be possible.
“Confronting Our Culture” with Mary Martin. Originally broadcast 03/08/15. We are shaped and influenced every day by our culture, whether or not we want to be. How do we maintain balance in our lives amid all the competing influences, and stay true to our Christian beliefs?
“Prayer is Power” with Pastor DJ Robinson. Originally broadcast 05/28/17. All true power is of God! We can share in His power when we intentionally give God glory for all things. And in difficult times, we are stronger together through prayer.
“Half Truths, Part Two: God Helps Those Who Help Themselves (and other things the Bible doesn’t say)” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 04/22/18. Second in a series from a book by this title, Natalie examines the historic background of the phrase and its implications for a Christian way of life.
“Out With the Old, In With the New” with Certified Lay Minister, Terry Cullinan. Originally broadcast 01/08/12. Terry expounds on a sentiment common during the New Year, but asks what it means to be truly cleansed. How do we equip ourselves now for the challenges ahead, and to help prepare the way of the Lord?
“Where Do We Go From Here” with Pastor Mary Martin. Originally broadcast 12/28/14. Christmas is over, the season is past. What did it mean to you this year? What do we do now? Plus a special presentation by Paul Brown featuring an original song, “StarShine.”
Mark Brennan plays favorite Christmas songs. Originally broadcast 12/08/13 from a special Advent CD recorded, compiled, and edited by Mark Blakely. A perennial seasonal favorite! (No bulletin.)
“Fiesta! The Legend of the Poinsettia” Christmas musical originally broadcast 12/20/15. Music director Linda Rosebrough leads a large cast of youth members from our church and the greater Avon community in this engaging and spirited presentation celebrating the birth of Christ.
“A Service of Special Music” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 12/16/18. Mitzie Collins, Roxanne Ziegler, and John Heyer join us with special instrumental selections performed between Bible passages, lighting the Advent Candles, and prayers.
“The Way of Hope” with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast 12/02/12. Hope is reborn in the season of Advent, hope for today and hope for the future. What do you hope for? How can we bring hope to a world divided in so many ways?
“Journey to Bethlehem: Growing in Peace” with Pastor Mia Richardson. Originally broadcast a year ago on December 1st. Our journey through the Advent Season is a journey to Bethlehem and to Jesus, the Bread of Life and Prince of Peace. On this journey may we grow in a peace which passes all understanding and become instruments of His peace with one another in this troubled world…
“Called to Sow Seeds of the Gospel” with former DS Rev. Ted Anderson. Originally broadcast 11/17/13. Ted speaks and sings a message that what each of us believes about God should be evident daily in our living, and a full-time expression of God’s love, with others. Plus, the Outreach Committee introduces Giggle Time.
“Say Cheese” with guest pastor, Jennifer Streeter. Originally broadcast 09/07/14. Trying to “see the big picture” can be overwhelming. Jennifer shares photo-taking analogies for techniques to focus on the world more selectively, and “become a picture of Christ” to others.
“In the Valley, I Will Not Fear” with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast 07/26/15. Even when lost and surrounded by darkness, we can proceed with purpose and without fear. God will lead us through…
"All Saints Day" led by the Trustee Committee with message by Pastor Marvin Krieger. Originally broadcast one year ago on November 3rd. Recognition is given for memorial gifts given in the preceding two years, along with gifts of service by our many dedicated parishioners. Marvin reflects on the relationships with special people and events that were part of his ministry experience here.
"It's Not Magic" with Pastors Mary Martin and Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast 07/19/15. Kim and Willis have baby Jack baptized. Mary speaks on the sacrament of baptism and it's special meaning with children, a relationship with God and each other that grows with us through life. Also, musical selections from Godspell, the ACS summer musical to be performed in our church due to school construction.
"A Church for All" with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 10/07/18. What does it look like to honor all diversity? How do we honor the uniqueness of each individual and yet unite together through what we have in common?
"The Greater Call" with Pastor Greg Franklin. Originally broadcast 02/05/12. What are you passionate about? How do you serve? What is the message when circumstances force us to slow down and reevaluate? What are the opportunities?
"Prayer: Never Give Up" with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast 10/16/16. First in a series of weekly sermons on the meaning and importance of prayer in our lives. Kim also touches upon the extra-special need for prayer in an election season.
"Pop the Clutch" with Pastor DJ Robinson. Originally broadcast 6/25/17. Ever feel like your life is stalled, your battery running low? Pastor DJ offers a very funny and inspirational encouragement of how to get your motor running again!
Living Son Special Service originally broadcast 08/31/14. Favorite selections from our men's choral group with inspirational messages from the guys interspersed. (No bulletin.)
"Why Bother?" Pastor Larry Beman guest-preaches one year ago on 09/08/19. Being a Christian and following in the path of Jesus can be a lot of work, sometimes, and involve much sacrifice. Larry asks, "Why bother?" And then shares how he answers that question for himself. (Also, much reminiscing of former congregants.)
"Go and Make Disciples, Matthew 28:19" together with Geneseo at Long Point Park on September 9th, 2018. Pastor Keith Griswold of Geneseo shares the message with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Our combined choirs and combined congregations share a memorable time of worship together.
“Love Your enemies? Are You Kidding Me!” with Pastor Marvin Krieger. Originally broadcast 02/24/19. Pretty much what it sounds like!
“Climbing a Mountain” with David Jacobus. Originally broadcast 03/08/20. We all have challenges, personal mountains of concern, frustration, or fear as part of daily life. To surmount these mountains, we need to create a path through patience and prayer, trust in God, and guidance of the Holy Spirit. (Note, this was the second-to-last worship service recorded prior to Covid mandates.)
“Things We Trip Over” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 01/28/18. “Following Jesus” is a complicated issue. There are thousands of different churches interpreting what this means. We need to focus on the things we have in common, love of God and love of each other.
“God’s Gardeners” with J.J. Warren at the combined 08/12/18 tent service with Central Presbyterian. We are created to take care of the world, we are God’s gardeners. Cultivation means people, as well as land. This is our mission field, to grow a better world together.
“Where the Rubber Meets the Road” with Pastor DJ Robinson. Originally broadcast 04/23/17. DJ shares that each of us is a miracle of God through having Jesus in our lives. So how do we share the great riches we have through this relationship, with others?
“Passing Through the Rage” with Pastor Marvin Krieger. Originally broadcast 02/03/19. How do we feel when our expectations of others fall short? How do we move through and beyond our anger when others fail us? Plus, the Geneseo UMC Choir joins us!
“Practicing Discipleship” with Paul Brown. Originally broadcast 01/22/17. Paul fills in for Pastor Kim (who was not feeling well) to deliver a wonderful message on how we are to interpret the call to be disciples of God in the present times.
“Peace, Not War! New Jerusalem” with Pastor Mia. Originally broadcast 11/17/19. Where do we find peace in the midst of what is going on? We need to trust God, no matter what! God wants us to live in peace.
“Let it God” with Pastor Jennifer Streeter. Originally broadcast 07/03/16. It’s easy to get worn down by circumstances (and others) when we are under constant situational pressure. How do we let it go? Plus twin trombones with the Lewis Brothers!
“Half Truths, Part Three: God Won’t Give You More Than You Can Handle” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 05-06-18. Another part of Pastor Natalie's series that speaks to the challenges facing us today.
“Half Truths, Part One: Everything Happens for a Reason” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 04-22-18. The first of Pastor Natalie’s series of familiar Christian concepts that become part of our belief system through being anecdotal, rather than based on Methodist teachings.
“God Leads Us Through the Wilderness” with Pastor Douglas Wilson. Originally broadcast 01-11-15. Unfamiliar territory can seem like wilderness to us. How do we get through challenges that leave us feeling lost?
“Come, Spirit Come” with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast Pentecost Sunday, 05/15/16. An appropriate and timely message for any Sunday of the year
“Living by Faith- Difficult” with Pastor Mary Martin. Originally broadcast 10/30/16. Sometimes it can be especially difficult to keep our faith during trying events. Pastor Mary teaches us how and encourages the journey.
“Things No One Knows” with Pastor Natalie Bowerman. Originally broadcast 12/03/17. Does the virus foreshadow “End Times?” Pastor Natalie discusses Christian views of apocalyptic events and what our UMC teaches about the return of Jesus. (Plus, more Christmas music!)
“A Good Cry” with Pastor DJ Robinson. Originally broadcast 12/04/16. A “DJ Presentation” on how sometimes when feeling overwhelmed by life, the most powerful thing we can do for our mental health and spiritual enrichment is to “Have a Good Cry!” (Plus, Christmas music!)
"Be Made Clean" with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast 02/12/12. Kim delivers a moving first-person narrative of "The Healing of the Leper" and how the power of Christ can make us clean and healthy in God and with others, no matter our circumstances.
"We Can Make a Difference" with Pastor Hector Rivera. Originally broadcast 11/13/16. Hector shares an overview and personal accounts of how we can better hear and respond to God's call in our lives, especially during changing times and developing opportunities.
“God is Calling Us: Seven Holy Habits” with Don Mastin and other members of our men’s fellowship leading the service. Originally broadcast 03/13/16. The men take turns examining healthy Christian habits and how these can lead to a more enriching relationship with God’s calling in our individual lives.
“Wilderness Experience” with Pastor Mary Martin. Originally broadcast 02/22/15. Highlights include the worship service led by our UMW and a timely message from Mary about reevaluating what is truly important a-midst ongoing challenges and sacrifice.
“We Can Get Up” with Pastor DJ Robinson. Originally broadcast Easter Sunday 04/16/17. A spirited message of encouragement that no matter how bad things seem, we can still get to, and stay on our feet with Christian Empowerment through our God.
“A Service of Palms” with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast on Palm Sunday 03/24/13. Highlights include a Passion musical production by Paul Brown that shares the talents of Paul, Gladys Iler, Phillip Iler, and Heather Arnold.
"Living Water" with Pastor Kim Ferrel. Originally broadcast 3/27/11, the first program of our radio ministry! Highlights include the Geneseo UMC choir joining us, and a narrative production by Paul Brown, Gladys Iler, and Kim of "The Woman at the Well".
