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Spring 2025 * Volume 26, Issue 2
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VP Spiritual Life's Message by Joseph Moseray
Words of Encouragement in Uncertain Times
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In these uncertain and challenging times, when economic and political storms rage, and the fear of unstable employment weighs heavily on our hearts, I pray that we can all cling to the timeless promises found in Scripture. The Bible offers us narratives of perseverance, struggle, and ultimately, hope. Its stories remind us that even when the path seems dark, God’s light guides and sustains us. I hope that the following stories can serve as a source of enduring hope for all of us.
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The Story of Joseph: Joseph’s journey, from being betrayed by his own brothers and cast into slavery to rising as a leader in Egypt, is a profound testament to faith amid adversity. Despite unjust suffering and unforeseen setbacks, Joseph recognized that even the trials he endured were steppingstones toward a greater destiny. His life reassures us that our present hardships, though painful, may be part of a divine plan that leads to renewal and restoration.
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The Exodus of the Israelites: Moses led the Israelites out of bondage with nothing more than steadfast trust and unyielding faith. As they faced the daunting Red Sea, their deliverance came when God parted the waters—a miraculous sign that even the most insurmountable obstacles can be overcome. In our moments of uncertainty, political and economic challenges, the Exodus reminds us that liberation and transformation are always possible when we trust in God’s guidance.
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Job og hans venner (Job and his friends) by Kristian Zahrtmann. Date: 1887.
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The Resilience of Job: Job’s story is one of profound suffering but also of enduring hope. Stripped of every earthly blessing and burdened with immense loss, Job clung to his faith. Though he questioned the reasons behind his pain, his unwavering trust in the Divine ultimately paved the way for restoration and greater understanding. His lessons encourage us to persevere, even when life’s trials seem unbearable.
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Please note that God has a plan for each one of us, and at all times. If we Just listen to Jeremiah 29:11, we hear the words: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
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My brothers and sisters a hopeful future is secured under God’s loving plan for us all.
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Rev. Joseph L. Moseray
Vice President, Spiritual Life
Pastor, Galloway United Methodist Church
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Service Men in the Virginia Conference
Nominations Open for VP, Membership & Development
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Looking for an opportunity to serve and have a dynamic impact on men’s ministry in the Virginia Conference?
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The Virginia Conference United Methodist Men Cabinet has an open position for Vice President, Membership & Development for the 2025-2026 term that begins July 1, 2025. Please prayerfully consider this position as a way of serving the men of the Virginia Conference.
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The Vice President, Membership & Development is a key Cabinet member who assists the President, District points of contact, and local men’s fellowships with organizing, chartering, and promoting men’s ministry in the Virginia Conference. Please click here for the full job description.
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If you have questions or are interested in serving as the Vice President, Membership & Development, please contact Albert Weal, Jr. at [email protected] or 757-677-6096.
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2025 National Men's and Scouting Conference
Early Bird Registration Ends April 17
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The General Commission on United Methodist Men is thrilled to invite you to the National Men’s & Scouting Conference, happening July 31 – August 3, 2025, at the stunning Epworth by The Sea on St. Simons Island, GA. Join us for a dynamic and empowering experience focused on men's ministry, spiritual growth, and Scouting activities. This event is designed for men and scouts who are looking to deepen their faith and become true disciples in their communities.
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- Early Bird Rate: $125
- Scout Registration: Just $75
Get ready for unforgettable days of inspiration, connection, and transformation as men and scouts from across the country gather for powerful worship, leadership workshops, and good old-fashioned fellowship—all in one of the most beautiful spots on the Georgia coast.
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Don’t wait—you don’t want to miss this. Register now, be part of something bigger, and represent Virginia at this national event. Early bird conference registration ends on April 17. Room and meals registration is due by July 4.
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Don't miss this opportunity to grow spiritually and foster lasting connections with like-minded individuals at the 2025 National Men's & Scouting Ministry Gathering.
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Reading Sacred Texts
Week of May 1, 2025
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Week of May 1, 2025 – US National Day of Prayer
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GCUMM and the Virginia Conference UMM invite scouts and youth across the world to join again in reading their faith’s sacred texts. Together, we can recognize our duty to God, participating as a group or on your own. Read your sacred texts on May 1, 2025, or anytime that week.
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Join Scouting America, other youth organizations, and all faith youth groups in a celebration of sacred texts.
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Under the Rainbow
Volunteer for 2025 Camp Rainbow Connection
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Camp Rainbow Connection (CRC) is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a week-long respite camp for individuals with intellectual disabilities at Richard Bland College in Petersburg, VA from July 12-18, 2025.
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Initially held at Westview on the James, the first camp had 25 campers and a small staff of 15 volunteers. CRC grew to two weeks while at the Blackstone Conference and Retreat Center before the pandemic.
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The staff and volunteers of Camp Rainbow are dedicated to providing a wonderful and enriching summer program for each camper, along with a week of respite for families and care givers. Campers participate in a variety of activities including Bible class, music, science, arts and crafts, games, dancing and special activities.
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CRC welcomes the men of the Virginia Conference as volunteer as Staff Buddies (full-time) or as part-time staff during any part of the week. Please visit https://crcva.org/pages/volunteer for more information and how to apply.
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As part of the 40th anniversary, CRC is reprising several themes including Christmas. CRC will distribute Christmas cards for the campers to open in their rooms during camp week. Please send Christmas cards in bulk to:
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Camp Rainbow Connection
PO Box 724
Midlothian VA 23113
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Giving Tuesday
June 17, 2025
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On June 17, 2025, join us in making a real difference on Giving Tuesday! Your donation to the Virginia Conference UMM will directly impact our mission to unite men within the church for spiritual growth, service, and fellowship to become effective disciples of Jesus Christ.
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Words to Live By
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Taking Easter Forward
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Easter, a season of renewal and hope, invites us to reflect on the profound messages of love, sacrifice, and resurrection. As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, we are reminded of the transformative power of faith. This message of hope is not confined to one day but is meant to inspire us throughout the year.
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To take the essence of Easter forward, we can start by embracing love and compassion in our daily lives. Just as Jesus exemplified unconditional love, we are called to extend kindness to those around us—friends, family, and even strangers. Small acts of kindness can create ripples of positivity in our communities, reminding us that we are all interconnected.
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Forgiveness is another central theme of Easter. Jesus’ sacrifice teaches us the importance of letting go of grudges and embracing reconciliation. By choosing to forgive, we free ourselves from the burdens of resentment and open our hearts to healing and growth.
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Additionally, Easter encourages us to find hope in difficult times. Life can be challenging, but the resurrection symbolizes that despair can give way to joy and new beginnings.
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Sharing this message of hope with others can uplift those who are struggling, reminding them that brighter days are ahead.
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Finally, we can carry the spirit of Easter into our actions by actively engaging in service to others. Volunteering, supporting local charities, or simply being present for someone in need reflects the love and sacrifice that Easter embodies.
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In essence, taking the message of Easter forward means living out love, forgiveness, hope, and service every day. By doing so, we honor the true spirit of this sacred season, making our world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.
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In continued efforts to fulfill the Virginia Conference goal of having Connectional Ministries become a greater resource to districts, laity and clergy, United Methodist Men are now partnered with Virginia UM clergy. Clergy, you are receiving the Beacon newsletter as part of your Virginia Conference connection.
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