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Canton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Preaching to YourselfPastor Clay and Eric met up for one final episode of the Cut for Time Podcast before Pastor Clay moves to Grand Forks to serve Zion UMC. Together they discuss how this Emerge sermon series has taken on a bigger meaning and how Sunday's sermon in particular spoke to our transitional moments. Thank you for listening over the past four years! Both Pastor Clay and Eric have had so much fun recording together and having you join us for the conversations. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-05-3021 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Claiming New PossibilitiesScripture: Matthew 16:13-20 Series: Emerge Anew The metamorphosis that Simon underwent in his life is the perfect example of the difference that Jesus can make in someone's life. He was hesitant but faithful and claimed every new opportunity Jesus had for him. Even if others did not see his potential, even if he did not see his own potential, Jesus did. The same is true for you and for me. Who do you sense Jesus leading you to become? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-05-2618 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Waking UpScripture: John 11:17-25; 38-44 Series: Emerge Anew Today Pastor Clay talked about longshots and not giving up hope. Our chrysalises do not look like much right now; they look like little brown pods that could easily be mistaken as dead. Yet they are teeming with life. Lazarus' story reminds us the power of not giving up hope for new life, even if things seem finished. What do you still hope is possible in your life of faith? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-05-1917 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Into the LightScripture: Luke 24:28-35 Series: Emerge Anew Despite the darkness of their grief, two disciples walking along the road to Emmaus see the light of the resurrection when Jesus enters their conversations, reveals a bit of light, and then obliterates their darkness in the breaking of bread. As we go through life and experience our own darkness, Jesus also meets us and challenges us to shed light on others. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-05-1215 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Finding God in What Comes NextEric and Pastor Clay sat down to discuss Sunday's message from our Emerge series. They talked about the timing of this message coinciding with Graduate Recognition Sunday and also some of the history of the Canton UMC and its ability to find God in what comes next. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-05-0721 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Leaving Comfortable SpacesScripture: Hebrews 11:1-3 Series: Emerge Anew Last week, we talked about embracing dark spaces to learn lessons God can only teach in the stillness and quiet of the dark. But we cannot simply remain in the dark because we are called to be light. As we live this delicate tension, may we put our faith in God to remain with us when we emerge forth. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-05-0414 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: No Gantt Chart for the GospelsEric and Pastor Clay are back after a long break to check in about Lent, some developments in the life of the Canton UMC, and to discuss our new message series. Eric also asks about the details of the resurrection stories, and we all learn that there is no way to plot out and logic our way through the differences among the gospels. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-04-3019 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Tombs & CocoonsScripture: John 20:1-18 Series: Emerge Anew When we find ourselves in the midst of dark and tight spaces, our natural inclination may be to get ourselves free as soon as possible. But perhaps there is something God wants us to learn or see while we are in the dark. As we emerge forth from the season of Lent into a new season of life, what might God be up to while we are in the dark? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-04-2715 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: First WordsScripture: Matthew 28:1-10 As Lent gives way to Easter, so too do Jesus' final words give way to his first words of new life. On that first Easter Sunday, Jesus greets the Marys who had gone to the tomb with two invitations: to rejoice and to tell. As we live in the light of Jesus' resurrection, may we take these invitations upon ourselves.  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-04-2218 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSpecial Edition: Easter SonRise MessageOn Easter Sunday morning, one of our 8th graders named Grayson V. preached an excellent message about the difference that the resurrection makes for us. We hope you are as encouraged by his words as we were!
2025-04-2207 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: It Is FinishedScripture: Luke 23:44-48 & John 19:30 Series: Seven Statements from the Cross In the final message from this series, Pastor Clay helps us explore the last two statements Jesus makes from the cross. With a resolute trust in God, Jesus surrenders his life for us. As we go through the dark valleys of life, we can trust God as Jesus did and put our own spirits in God's hands. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-04-1416 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: I ThirstScripture: John 19:28-29 Series: Seven Statements from the Cross As the horrors of the crucifixion wore on Jesus' physical body, he cried out that he was thirsty. It is easy to assume why he would be thirsty, but could that the thirst he was experiencing was more about his spirit longing for God's presence? As we feel our spirits feeling parched during this Lenten season, may we drink deep from the Living Water Jesus provides. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-04-0713 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: ForsakenScripture: Matthew 27:45-54 Series: Seven Statements from the Cross So far, we have seen Jesus care so much for so many people. But today, as we find him nearing the end of his life, he cannot ignore his own suffering for much longer. Something changes, and he cannot feel the sense of God's presence that was familiar to him. He feels cut off, alone, and forsaken. The truth is that we know how Jesus feels. When those times come in our own lives, we can cry out to him and trust that he knows what...
2025-03-3017 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Church is Family (feat. Rev. Stephanie Schneider)While Eric is on a work trip, Pastor Clay met up with Rev. Stephanie Schneider to discuss last week's podcast, Sunday's message, and how the Church operates best when it is a family. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-03-2633 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: BeholdScripture: John 19:25-27 Series: Seven Statements from the Cross Jesus' concern could rightly be on the predicament he is in while on the cross. But when he sees his mother and beloved disciple at the foot of the cross, his concern turns to taking care of these two important people. He makes them into a family. By his grace, this work of "family-making" goes on for us today. How has the Church been like a family to you? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-03-2317 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Penitent ThievesPastor Clay and Eric sat down together to discuss Sunday's message and our progress in this series so far. Last week started with Jesus asking God to forgive "them" because they did not know what they were doing, and this week shows us what that forgiveness looks like in action. A penitent thief on the cross cries to Jesus to be remembered, and Jesus answers, "Surely you will be with me." How does this help us understand the nature of salvation and God's "unfair" love? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-03-1917 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: You'll Be With MeScripture: Luke 23:39-43 Series: Seven Statements from the Cross It does seem like there are things we get too old to do, but this scripture does help us "never say never." The penitent thief on the cross probably thought it was too late to confess his sins and experience the forgiveness of Christ, yet Jesus extended grace and forgiveness to him. What do you think it is "too late"  to do? This week, Pastor Clay helps us explore the second of Jesus' seven statements from the cross.  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-03-1616 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: We Like Lent!Eric and Pastor Clay met up to talk about the beginning of the Lenten season and the first message in our series about Jesus' Seven Statements from the Cross. The first statement, "Father, forgive them" gave them much to discuss. What do you love about the season of Lent? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-03-1222 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: "Father Forgive Them"Scripture: Matthew 18:21-22 & Luke 23:32-34 Series: Seven Statements from the Cross During the season of Lent, we are exploring Jesus' final words, words that reveal Jesus' heart for all humanity. In his first statement from the cross, Jesus prays for forgiveness on behalf of the soldiers, the religious leaders, the crowds, and us. What do we learn from Jesus' forgiveness? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-03-1016 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSpecial Message: Ash WednesdayScripture: 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:10 Title: Life is Hard. The Apostle Paul tells the Corinthians about all the hardships he has endured but also glories in the fact that there is an "and yet" that he finds in Jesus. As we go through hard things, and as Ash Wednesday itself can be hard, let us remember the "and yet" that will sustain us through Lent and beyond. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-03-0616 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Another Way (Rev. Nicole Anderson)Scripture: Numbers 27:1-8, 11b Rev. Nicole Anderson from Lake Poinsett Camp & Living Waters Retreat Center joined us for worship on Camp Sunday and introduced us to the summer 2025 Camp Curriculum "Another Way." Campers this summer are going to learn about the daughters of Zelophehad. After their father died, the women faced the reality that they were going to lose everything because inheritances went to sons or men in the family. But the people of Israel realized the law needed to be changed, and it was. According to this scripture, if we bring a justice issue forward, a...
2025-03-0428 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: A Whole Lotta LoveEric and Pastor Clay sat down to discuss the Loving Large series and how we celebrate love in our relationships. They both agree that Valentine's Day is a bit overrated but showing love in all relationships is important. Pastor Clay also shared an alternate opening to his sermon from Sunday making the point that we are not supposed to be a "one-hit-wonder" when it comes to showing God's love. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-02-2618 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Can We Really Change the World?Scripture: Matthew 25:31-40 Series: Loving Large As we bring this series to a close, Pastor Clay draws our attention to Jesus' teaching on the impact that putting love into action can have. The difference between the sheep and the goats that Jesus discusses in Matthew 25 is the difference between who showed love and kindness and who did not. How is it that we desire to live? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-02-2315 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Loving is GivingScripture: Matthew 6:19-24 Series: Loving Large We all like our stuff, and that's not a bad thing. But when our stuff - and our pursuit of more and better stuff - gets in the way of our call to love God and love neighbor, we run into issues regarding our faithfulness. Our pursuit for "more" can cost us more than its worth, but what is the alternative? It may be "less," but the real solution is generosity, using what we already have - time, talent, and treasure - to serve those around us. How can...
2025-02-1615 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Love Lifts MeScripture: Song of Solomon 8:6-7 Series: Loving Large It's not too often that we read from the Song of Solomon during worship, but it's message about love is too important for us to miss. The author of the Song of Solomon wants us to know that this type of love is possible, and the reason why we know it's possible is because God loves us like this. God's love lifts us up to see ourselves and our world in a different way. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-02-0915 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Where Do We Go From Here?Eric and Pastor Clay met up to discuss last week's message about putting our love into action and also dove one more time into United Methodist history. How did we get here and how does it help us know where to go from here? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-02-0517 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: We Love OthersScripture: 1 John 4:7-12 Series: The 5 Marks of a United Methodist As we reach the end of this message series, we circle back almost to the start. Jesus said that the two greatest commands were to love God and love others. We explored our love of God, and out of that love grows our love for others. Showing God's love is the best way to tell others about who God is.  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-02-0215 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: United Methodist DistinctivesPastor Clay and Eric are back after sick kids and weird work schedules to dig into our sermon series on the Five Marks of United Methodism. During their conversation, they cover prayer - which was the topic of last week's sermon - as well as the rationale behind this series. They also discuss some of the distinctives of the United Methodist church. What do you love about your church denomination? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-01-2924 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: We Pray ConstantlyScripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Series: The 5 Marks of a United Methodist When we hear the call to "pray without ceasing," we can end up confused or so sure that such a task is impossible that we simply lay it aside. But we can't afford to do that. Prayer matters simply too much. Drawing on the teaching of John Wesley, Pastor Clay helps us think about what it means to have our hearts lifted to God and why it matters for us today. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-01-2715 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: We Give ThanksScripture: Philippians 4:12-20 Message Series: The 5 Marks of United Methodism Hearing a message about giving thanks to God does not feel all that challenging... until you remember that the Apostle Paul challenged the Philippians to give thanks in every circumstance. Some times in life are harder than others, but what Paul learned and shared is that these times are manageable because Christ is with us just as Christ was with him.   Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-01-2017 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: A United Methodist FoundationWelcome back to a more normal-ish episode of the Cut for Time Podcast! As we begin a new message series at the church, Pastor Clay walks through some of the reasoning and rationale for why this series is up first in 2025 and then lays a foundation in the history of John Wesley, the Methodist Movement, and the United Methodist Church. How does this foundation help us build our faith today? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-01-1529 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: We Rejoice in GodScripture: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 Series: The 5 Marks of a United Methodist We continue our look at our identifying factors as we look at the joy of the Lord. God's people heard a reading of God's word and were moved to tears. Nehemiah and Ezra invited the people feast and celebrate God's goodness. When we gather for worship or spend time with God, do we experience this type of whole-hearted joy? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2025-01-1217 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: We Love GodScripture: Matthew 22:34-40 Series: The 5 Marks of a United Methodist As we embrace this new year as God's gift to us, it is important for us to have clarity about who we are as United Methodists. All the way back at the start of the Methodist movement, our founder John Wesley claimed that there are five distinguishing marks of a Methodist. The first one is that we love God. While that may seem very basic, it is important for us to build a strong foundation on this truth before we move to any further aspects...
2025-01-0615 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: The Impact of the IncarnationThe panel is back one more time to think back on Christmas Eve and the importance of the Incarnation. God took on flesh and dwelt among us in Jesus. Why is this so important to our faith during Christmas and even beyond? Guests on the Podcast: Rev. Stephanie Schneider: Village Baptist & First Baptist, Glens Falls & Ft. Edward, NY Rev. Peggy Hanson: Madison UMC, Madison SD Rev. Teresa Whetsel: Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND Beata Ferris: Discipleship Coordinator at Pierre First UMC, Pierre, SD Eric Stearns...
2025-01-0118 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Do You Feel What I Feel?Pastor Clay and his friends are back for the 4th Week of Advent to discuss what some of the touchstones of the holidays are for them. This goes with our week on touch and feeling, so what are some of the touchstones and traditions that make it feel like Christmas? Guests on the Podcast: Rev. Stephanie Schneider: Village Baptist & First Baptist, Glens Falls & Ft. Edward, NY Rev. Peggy Hanson: Madison UMC, Madison SD Rev. Teresa Whetsel: Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND Beata Ferris: Discipleship Coordinator at Pierre...
2024-12-2528 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchChristmas Eve Message: Do You Know What I Know?Scripture: Luke 2:1-20 Series: Experiencing Christmas Christ is born! Let us celebrate. In the fullness of God's time, God let us all in on a surprise that was centuries in the making. With all of our senses, we now know what God was up to this entire time. The birth of Christ is good news that we get to share with everyone around us! Merry Christmas! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-12-2515 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Do You Feel What I Feel?Scripture: Luke 2:25-35 Series: Experiencing Christmas Whether it is the itchy Christmas program costumes or a special decoration, our sense of touch is just as activated during the season as the rest of our senses. Jesus was touched during his life and touched many people, even people that the world would not touch. As we finish out the Advent season, may we think of the times that Jesus touched us and be inspired to reach out to touch others. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-12-2314 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Do You Taste What I Taste?The panel is back to discuss another one of our senses as it relates to Advent and Christmas. One of the most amazing parts of this season is the special meals and treats we get to enjoy along with the special people around us. We hope you enjoy all these stories. What treat lets you know that the season is truly here? Guests on the Podcast: Rev. Stephanie Schneider: Village Baptist & First Baptist, Glens Falls & Ft. Edward, NY Rev. Peggy Hanson: Madison UMC, Madison SD Rev. Teresa Whetsel: Flame of Faith...
2024-12-1813 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Do You Taste What I Taste?Scripture: Psalm 34:1-10 Series: Experiencing Christmas Thus far in our journey through the senses, we have noted how the sights and the sounds of the season point us to Jesus. But this is also a season that features special meals and treats that convey deep memories for us. How can the things we eat and enjoy this season help us to "taste and see that God is good?" Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-12-1614 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut For Time: Do You Hear What I Hear?Welcome back to the Cut for Time Podcast at the Canton United Methodist Church. As we continue our sermon series focused on how our sensory experiences focus us on the birth of Christ, we turn to our sense of hearing. This week, you'll hear from Pastor Clay and his panel about their favorite Christmas songs. Guests on the Podcast: Rev. Stephanie Schneider: Village Baptist & First Baptist, Glens Falls & Ft. Edward, NY Rev. Peggy Hanson: Madison UMC, Madison SD Rev. Teresa Whetsel: Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND Beata Ferris: Discipleship Coordinator at Pierre First...
2024-12-1123 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Do You Hear What I Hear?Scripture: Isaiah 42:1-4, 9-10 Series: Experiencing Christmas It is impossible to separate the sounds from the season. There are just songs we must sing in order for it to truly be Advent/Christmas. But Isaiah is not trying to create the perfect holiday movie moment with familiar songs. Isaiah challenges the people to sing new songs because through a servant God would raise up, God is doing something new. As we enjoy the sounds of the season, may we embrace what God is up to. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-12-0814 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Do You See What I See?Welcome to the Season of Advent at the Canton UMC! Advent is a season of the senses, and our sermon series is focused on how our sensory experiences focus us on the birth of Christ. This week you'll be introduced to several of Pastor Clay's friends and ministry colleagues who will all share an experience of Christmas sights that is impactful for them. Guests on the Podcast: Rev. Stephanie Schneider: Village Baptist & First Baptist, Glens Falls & Ft. Edward, NY; Rev. Peggy Hanson: Madison UMC, Madison SD; Rev. Teresa Whetsel: Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND; Beata...
2024-12-0425 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Do You See What I See?Scripture: Jeremiah 33:12-18 Series: Experiencing Christmas Advent is a season of the senses where God is up to something different. As we explore Advent through how we experience it with our senses, we take a look at the way the sights of the season proclaim the truth of what Jesus' birth means.  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-12-0210 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Introducing JesusScripture: Revelation 1:4-8 Today is Christ the King Sunday, a day for us to pause and remember all that Jesus' life and leadership means for us today. At the very start of Revelation, John re-introduces Jesus to his readers because the world that they were living in had much uncertainty. As we face uncertainty, Jesus becomes an anchor for us. How can we introduce and re-introduce Jesus to those around us so we can all experience his stability? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-11-2513 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Prayer is a PriorityPastor Clay and Eric are back together for an episode of the Cut for Time Podcast! In this episode, they talk about all the time we have spent talking about prayer this year, yet this sermon was so different as we focused on concept and not content. Prayer was a priority for the early church and should remain a priority for us. How can you prioritize prayer today? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-11-2021 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Devoted to PrayerScripture: Acts 2:42-47 & Matthew 5:6-8 Series: Devoted As we explore the final element to which the early church devoted itself, we are reminded of how important and powerful prayer is. While prayer may just seem like something we might do before meals or something we do when we have no other idea what to do, the early church saw it as essential. It was the first thing they did, not a last resort. How can we devote ourselves to prayer?  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-11-1819 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Intentional & Accidental KoinoniaAt the end of his message on Sunday, Pastor Clay told a story about a Koinonia Group that started at Sioux Falls Seminary and has endured for ten years. This meant that he got to sit down with a dear friend of his from seminary, Rev. Stephanie Schneider, to talk about the group, their seminary experiences, and the elements that make for true koinonia. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-11-1334 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Devoted to FellowshipScripture: Acts 2:42-47 & Hebrews 10:23-25 Series: Devoted There is a challenge of preaching about the importance of community to people who show up to church (or listen to a sermon podcast), but as we explore the Acts 2 church, it is impossible to ignore just how often and in how many places they were together. And it is impossible to ignore all that they were able to accomplish together. How could banding together in the name of Jesus shape our faith and world? Connect with the Canton UMC!  
2024-11-1118 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: More Than Bread & JuiceEric and Pastor Clay are back to discuss our Devoted series and the practice of Communion. Both of them will share a time when "Jesus happened" to them during communion and explore the history, theology, and background of our practice of communion. When has communion been meaningful for you? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-11-0623 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Devoted to the Fellowship MealScripture: Acts 2:42-47 & 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Series: Devoted The church in Acts devoted itself to four practices that we are exploring together. One of them was communion. Why is this simple practice of eating bread and drinking grape juice (or wine if you're from a different denomination) so important? In it we remember all that Jesus did and taught, and as Paul said to the Corinthians, it is a proclamation of Jesus' death. What could change in our faith if we devoted ourselves to communion? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-11-0514 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Devoted to the Apostles' TeachingScripture: Acts 2:42-47 & 2 Timothy 3:16 Series: Devoted The early church devoted itself to four key practices: the apostles' teaching, communion, fellowship, and prayer. How could recapturing these four practices build our faith? This week, we focused on our devotion to the apostles' teaching. We do not have the apostles with us, but we do have their teaching through the Bible. How can we devote ourselves to scripture? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-10-2817 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: A Full-Service LifeScripture: Mark 10:35-45 James and John ask Jesus a series of questions designed to make them the greatest of the disciples in God's kingdom. Jesus uses the opportunity as a time to teach about what really brings greatness in God's kingdom, and unfortunately for the disciples, greatness does not come from where they think it does. True greatness is not found in power or prestige but in being full-service and serving fully.    Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-10-2117 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Lessons from Hebrews 4Scripture: Hebrews 4:12-16 While Pastor Clay was at DakYouth, a conference youth event, Eric stepped into the pulpit to share message about the importance of scripture and the faithfulness of God. As we go through life, may we learn to love scripture and find in it the assurance of God's presence.  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-10-1510 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Pass It OnScripture: Deuteronomy 6:4-7 & 20-25 The Book of Deuteronomy is Moses' final speech to the Hebrew people before he passes on the leadership of Israel to Joshua and succumbs to death. In this last lecture, Moses recounts all that has happened, the entire faith journey that the Israelites have been on, all that God has done. And his imperative to the people is to pass it on. As we honored our 50-year members and celebrated confirmation, we were mindful of those who had passed the faith on to us and challenged to continue this work no matter where...
2024-10-0712 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Experiencing God's ProvisionPastor Clay and Eric are back again for an episode of the Cut for Time Podcast focusing on the laws God had given the people around worship and what we experience nowadays. Is this what God intended? They also talked about Pastor Clay's message from Sunday and the provision of God. How have you experienced God's provision? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-10-0226 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Grumbling in the DesertScripture: Numbers 11:1-11, 31-32 Series: Moses, The Reluctant Prophet After all the drama of The Exodus and God giving Israel the law, the only thing left to do for Israel is to continue moving from Egypt back to the Promised Land. God is already providing them with manna bread, but the Israelites are getting a bit hangry. When they cry out for something more, God provides in dramatic fashion and epic proportion. How have you experienced God's provision? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-09-2918 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Walking Through the 10On Sunday, Pastor Clay talked about God giving Moses/Israel the law, beginning with the Ten Commandments. But rather than dig in through all ten of the commandments in one sermon, we focused on the concept of the law. Eric and Pastor Clay met up to talk about the details of the Ten Commandments. What commandment do you struggle to follow? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-09-2629 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: The Ten CommandmentsScripture: Exodus 20:1-17 Series: Moses, the Reluctant Prophet When we left off the story last week, Moses was preparing to go to Pharoah to demand freedom for the Israelites. That eventually does come to pass, but the Israelites were not freed to create a free-for-all; they were set free to continue the covenantal faithfulness from which they came. In order to guide them, God gave the ten commandments. As we seek the same covenantal faithfulness, these ten commandments still guide our way. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-09-2416 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Drawn OutScripture: Exodus 3:1-11 Series: Moses, the Reluctant Prophet Moses' name has a deeply profound meaning in the story of his life and leadership, which is "Drawn Out." He was drawn out of the waters of the Nile River, which is the reason why he has given that name, but God kept drawing him out further and further. How might God continue this work through you? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-09-1519 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Summer Recap and BeyondAnd we're back! Hold onto your hats for this one, friends, as Pastor Clay and Eric recap an entire summer of preaching and dig into Pastor Clay's sermon from Sunday, which started our series on Moses. His birth was wild, and clearly God is up to something. But the story is just beginning. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-09-1123 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: The Birth of MosesScripture: Exodus 2:1-10 Series: Moses, The Reluctant Prophet This week we began another one of our deep-dive character studies of a biblical hero designed to help us see that these heroes of our faith have stories that can and should impact us. Today, the heroes were not necessarily Moses but those who helped him be born in a time when it was not safe for a Hebrew baby boy to be born. With these courageous women working in his life, it is clear that God is up to something through Moses. Connect with...
2024-09-1116 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Living in the LightScripture: Ephesians 5:8-15 Series: Reflecting the Source Do you look like someone in your family? Is the resemblance strong? In his letter to the Ephesians, the Apostle Paul told the Ephesians that because of Jesus they had become a part of the Lord's People and share a resemblance with one another and with all Christians. We are people who resemble the light of God inwardly and outwardly! Shine on.  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-09-0215 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: You are the LightScripture: Matthew 5:13-16 Series: Reflecting the Source From God creating the light to Jesus shining the light, we are focusing further in on how we then reflect Jesus' light into the world. Our joy and responsibility as followers of Christ is to be the light for others so that they can discover God's love in their own lives. Who needs a little bit of light today? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-08-2617 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: I Am the LightScripture: John 8:12-15 Series: Reflecting the Source It is comforting to know and even better to feel God's presence in the midst of dark times in life. But sometimes we need more than just being comforted; we need help finding the right next step. Thank God for Jesus who is the light of the world and shows us the way out of darkness and into God's marvelous light! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-08-1917 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Let There Be LightScripture: Genesis 1:1-5, 31 Series: Reflecting Our Source Despite all that divides us in the world today, one thing we can probably all agree with is that we know what it is like to be in darkness. Life is hard and strange at times, which means it is good that we follow a God who said, "Let there be light" and who truly is light. May you find God's light in any darkness you experience.  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-08-1317 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Self-ControlScripture: Galatians 5:1, 19-23 Series: Cultivating Holiness Pastor Clay admitted that he wanted to skip talking about self-control because self-control is not easy. While that is true, it is also too important to skip or downplay. Without self-control the rest of the fruit of the Spirit might not grow in our lives as we are distracted by other good things (at best) or so lost in bad things (at worst) that there is no room for the Fruits of the Spirit. How can you exhibit self-control and leave room for the Holy Spirit to grow the...
2024-08-0515 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: GentlenessScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & Matthew 11:25-30 Series: Cultivating Holiness It is becoming a recurring theme in this message series, but gentleness as a fruit of the Spirit has a far larger definition than we first may think. We hear gentleness and think of meekness (or even weakness). If we are going to be gentle, surely we must become a doormat for the sake of the gospel, right? Actually the gentleness that is a fruit of the Spirit has more to do with our obedience to Christ and if we will resist what Jesus wants or be...
2024-07-2917 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: FaithfulnessScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & Deuteronomy 32:1-6 Series: Cultivating Holiness When we think of our own faithfulness, it always has to be weighed against God's faithfulness. And even though we can and will grow in faithfulness, it will never match God's, and it shouldn't. But we should be faithful to God and follow through with our commitments to others. How can you grow in faithfulness today? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-07-1518 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: GoodnessScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & Luke 10:25-37 Series: Cultivating Holiness As we continue our look at the Fruit of the Spirit, we are looking at goodness and the motivation behind doing good. Why do we do the good things we do?  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-07-0815 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: KindnessScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & Matthew 18:15-17 Series: Cultivating Holiness What comes to mind when you think of kindness? Does a particular person come to mind? Kindness to our friends or even strangers is a valid part of how kindness is a fruit of the Spirit. But the kindness we are called to grow is even bigger. How does kindness work with people we don't care for? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-06-3017 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: PatienceScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & Jonah 1:1-17 Series: Cultivating Holiness While Pastor Clay focused on church camp, Eric Stearns stepped in to talk about patience at the end of a week that required much of it. What can we learn about God and ourselves while we are waiting? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-06-2512 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: PeaceScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & John 14:16-27 Series: Cultivating Holiness There are all kinds of opinions out there about what "peace" looks like. Usually someone's definition of peace includes the product they're trying to sell you. But it is not so with peace that is a fruit of the Spirit, or the peace that Jesus provides for his disciples. What kind of peace are you looking for?  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-06-1918 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: JoyScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & Isaiah 55:10-13 Series: Cultivating Holiness As we continue looking at the Fruit of the Spirit, we take a look at joy. The Prophet Isaiah proclaimed a joyous message to God's people when he said that God's intention was for them to return to Israel, and that they could trust Isaiah's words because God intends to fulfill every promise that is made. How does knowing God like this bring us joy? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-06-0315 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: LoveScripture: Galatians 5:22-23 & John 13 Series: Cultivating Holiness In the life of the Church, we have been through so many big, holy moments that Ordinary Time can feel like a real let down. Yet this is the perfect time to dig into our lives of faith and grow closer to God. When we do, our lives produce what the Apostle Paul calls the fruit of the Spirit. May this summer be a time of cultivating holiness as we explore Christian love, the first fruit of the Spirit, and all the rest God wants to grow in...
2024-05-2619 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: The Bare Bones of the ChurchWelcome back to the Cut for Time Podcast! This week Eric and Pastor Clay caught up to talk about Sunday's message for Pentecost Sunday and why there was a difference between the scriptures Pastor Clay picked earlier in the week and what we actually read together on Sunday. What is the connection between Ezekiel's vision of the dry bones and Peter's message on Pentecost? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-05-2220 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Speaking UpScripture: Acts 2:1-21 On the day of Pentecost, the Church remembers the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and Peter's first sermon for the crowd that misunderstood what was happening. Pulling inspiration from Joel 2, he proclaims the saving love of Jesus, and 3,000 people respond to his preaching. The Church burst onto the scene on Pentecost, and the world has never been the same. How does the Holy Spirit continue to inspire us to speak up? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-05-1916 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: UsScripture: Acts 1:1-11 Series: Resurrection How does Jesus' ascension connect to his resurrection and connect to us? In the resurrection, Jesus defeated death, but his ascension in the sight of his disciples proved it was possible and further strengthened our hope in our own resurrection following our deaths. In the meantime, Jesus has given us a charge: to be witnesses. How do you witness to your faith where you are, in the world around you, and to the ends of the earth? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-05-1315 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Saul/Paul's Turning PointWelcome to another episode of the Cut for Time Podcast! After a very busy Sunday and a very short sermon, Pastor Clay and Eric met up to add some more context to the message and the life of Saul who turned into Paul. This was a turning point in his life. We all come to those turning point moments. Pastor Clay will share one of his; as he does, consider your own turning points and give thanks to God! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-05-0817 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: The Apostle PaulScripture: Acts 9:1-9 Series: Resurrection The Apostle Paul called himself at one point in scripture "one who was born at the wrong time" since he missed out on being with the Sanhedrin during the time of Jesus' ministry. But that did not stop the Risen Jesus from getting his attention on the road to Damascus. We are born way after Jesus and the Apostle Paul, but God still gets our attention through Jesus. How can we follow Jesus as faithfully as Paul did? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-05-0610 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Simon PeterScripture: John 21:15-19 Series: Resurrection After the resurrection, Simon Peter thought he might have to answer for all the mistakes he made leading to Jesus' death. Fortunately, Jesus is more concerned with how Simon Peter is going to move forward. As we also make mistakes, Jesus' concern remains the same. How do we move past our biggest mistakes to find Jesus' purpose for us? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-04-2915 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: How'd You Get to Camp (with Rev. Nicole Anderson)On Sunday, we celebrated Camp Sunday and welcomed Rev. Nicole Anderson from Lake Poinsett to join us. Now, in between cooking breakfast and cleaning the retreat center, Pastor Nicole sat down with Pastor Clay to tell us how she came to Poinsett, what camp means to her, and what she's looking forward to this summer. We hope you enjoy our conversation! Learn more about Dakotas Conference Camping! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-04-2430 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: The Prodigal ChildScripture: Luke 15:11-32 Rev. Nicole Anderson from Lake Poinsett Camp & Living Waters Retreat Center was with us in worship to celebrate Camp and Retreat Ministries Sunday! Using our "Linked by Love" curriculum, she proclaimed a message about Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, linking to all the prodigal people in the story. How have you experienced the prodigal love of God? Connect the Dakotas Conference Camping! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-04-2230 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Which Mary is This Mary?Welcome to another episode of the Cut for Time Podcast! Eric and Pastor Clay met up to discuss Sunday's message about Mary Magdalene. So little is actually known about her, so it gets hard to separate fact from legend. The guys will discuss Mary's identity and her role in our faith. How does Jesus overcoming Mary's darkness give us hope about the darkness in our lives? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-04-1720 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Mary MagdaleneScripture: Luke 8:1-3 & John 20:1-2, 11-28 Series: Resurrection Mary Magdalene is a woman in scripture whose identity is a bit murky. There's quite a bit of legend of who she was before Jesus, and none of it is good. It is clear that her life was completely changed by Jesus. Would it change back after the death of Jesus? Could this be why she was so deeply impacted by the death of Christ? This week as we look at her life and true legacy, Pastor Clay helps us consider the change Christ has made in...
2024-04-1417 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: What Do You Need?Pastor Clay and Eric sat down to talk about Sunday's message and the start of our new message series on the people who were deeply affected by the Resurrection. The first person was Thomas, who received what he needed to believe in the Risen Jesus. What do you need in order to be brought to deeper faith? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-04-1024 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: ThomasScripture: John 20:19-28 Series: Resurrection Stories Thomas is famous for one thing: doubting. Thomas doubted one thing, and we have labeled anyone who ever doubted anything ever as "Doubting Thomas." Is that fair? All Thomas wanted was to experience Jesus in the same way as the disciples had. The good news is that Jesus shows up for Thomas and gives him what he needs to believe. How do you need Jesus to show up for you?  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-04-0815 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: A Look Back on Holy WeekAfter a whirlwind week with so many powerful worship opportunities, Pastor Clay and Eric sit down to talk about the week that was, the week that is coming, and just what exactly we are supposed to do with the strange ending of Mark's Gospel. Have you gone back to read any of the alternate endings of Mark's Gospel? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-04-0324 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: An Unfinished EasterScripture: Mark 16:1-8, GNT What is your favorite television show that is no longer on the air/releasing new episodes? How did you feel about the finale? Sometimes bad finales can tarnish our entire view of a show, even a show in which we have invested so much time. Mark's Gospel seems to end in a way that is unsatisfying, but actually the end invites us to embrace the unfinished nature of the Gospel and spurs us on to further action. How does Jesus' resurrection inspire us to live in His light? Connect with the...
2024-04-0116 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Wishy-Washy CrowdsPastor Clay and Eric are back together for this week's episode to talk more about the crowds that were present throughout Holy Week. How could they turn so fast on Jesus? How could they be that wishy-washy? The reality is that we are susceptible to this same fleeting interest. How can the events of Holy Week ground us in our identity in Christ? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-03-2717 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: ThanksgivingScripture: Psalm 118 & Mark 11 Series: Pause - Lent with the Psalms On Palm Sunday, we commemorate a parade that happened a long time ago as Jesus entered Jerusalem. A large crowd gathered and cried out to God by crying out to Jesus, but did everyone understand what was going on? How does Jesus' triumphant entry make us more thankful for his ministry? As we learn more about Jesus, may it make us more thankful. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-03-2517 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Waiting for ResurrectionEaster is coming, and we just can't wait. But yet the calendar tells us that we are not quite there yet. So, we have to wait. The good news is that God is with us in our waiting and has lessons to teach us in the meantime. Pastor Clay is here to help us think about the purpose of waiting and walk us through the events of Holy Week at the Canton UMC! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-03-2015 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: WaitingScripture: Psalm 130 Series: Pause - Lent with the Psalms How do you do with waiting? In a lot of ways, Lent is a lot about waiting as we are awaiting the joy of Easter, so much so that we are tempted to skip to the end rather than waiting it out. Is it possible that our Lenten waiting has something to teach us about our faith in God? Let's explore further in Pastor Clay's message on this 5th Sunday in Lent. Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-03-1816 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: TablesScripture: Psalm 23 Series: Pause - Lent with the Psalms Is it even a sermon series about the Psalms without talking about Psalm 23? David's words are beloved to so many people for so many reasons. It is easy for us to find familiarity in his words and comfort from God's reassurance. As we focus in on the table David describes near the end of the psalm, where do we find the good news?  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-03-1116 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: BlessingsScripture: Psalm 63:1-8 Series: Pause - Lent with the Psalms What does it mean to be blessed? Is it something you can define or do you just know it when you see it? When we meet David in this psalm, he is running for his life, away from Jerusalem, separated from his own people. Yet he remains confident in God's blessings. What? If faced with the same conditions, how would you respond?  Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-03-0416 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut For Time: Reliving the PandemicThe past few years have certainly been a weird time, right? As Pastor Clay and Eric talk about the importance of seeking God's face, they harken back to a time when we did odd things to seek each other's faces. They also discuss people in their lives that have been a beacon of God's presence. Check it all out in this week's episode of the Cut for Time Podcast! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-02-2828 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: Seeking God's FaceScripture: Psalm 27:1-6, 13-14 Series: Pause - Lent with the Psalms Lent is a season with its own heaviness, with the reminder of our mortality and insistence on penitence. When you add that to the heaviness of normal life, it can add up to the point that we don't know where to turn. David, the great king of Israel, found himself in the same situation at several different points in his life, and each time he turned to God. What does it mean to you to seek God's face and shine divine light into the...
2024-02-2616 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchCut for Time: Lent with the PsalmsThe season of Lent is upon us! We are spending this season in the Book of Psalms exploring the range of emotion and language we use to connect with God. Today on the podcast, Pastor Clay sat down with Pastor Amber Laffey from the Alexandria (SD) UMC who is also walking through the Book of Psalms during Lent. Together, they recap the start of the Lenten Season and Sunday's message about following in God's paths. Connect with the Canton UMC! Connect with the Alexandria UMC! Connect with "A Cup of Joy" with Amber...
2024-02-2132 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: PathsScripture: Psalm 25:1-10 Series: Pause - Lent with the Psalms The Season of Lent is upon us. During the season of Lent we are focused on the Psalms' invitation to pause, rest, and reevaluate our path in life as we prepare for the power of the Resurrection. When we feel lost, David shows us that all we need to do is cry out to God, and God will give us the navigational assistance we need. Connect with the Canton UMC!  
2024-02-1816 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSpecial Message: Ash WednesdayScripture: Psalm 51:1-17 Series: Pause: Lent with the Psalms We begin the season of Lent with Psalm 51, David's great psalm in the aftermath of his affair with Bathsheba. He wants a fresh start and cries to the God who is able to grant him one. During this Lenten season, what does it mean for God to give you a clear heart? Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-02-1516 minCanton United Methodist Church
Canton United Methodist ChurchSunday Message: DoxologyScripture: Luke 11:1-4 & 1 Chronicles 29:11 Series: Teach Us to Pray  We have reached the end of the Lord's Prayer and the end of this message series. After all of this, is the Lord's Prayer worth more than the thirty or forty seconds it takes us to pray it during worship? How does this last phrase help us express a feeling of gratitude and praise we feel in the depth of our souls? Let's explore this together! Connect with the Canton UMC!
2024-02-1216 min