RESOURCES
Interested in diving deeper into our shared mission, values, and practices? Here are resources our pastors and staff have found enriching and helpful!
We believe that spiritual formation is both a communal and an individual journey that extends far beyond our weekly Sunday morning gatherings and the walls of the building. Explore the links below to find additional materials related to our current sermon series, small group & ministry area resources, and to dive deeper into our community’s shared mission, vision, values, and practices.
We would love to help you, your family, or your ministry group find spiritual formation resources to enhance your faith journey.
For any questions or resource requests, please contact Candace Shaw, Director of Spiritual Formation.
Candace Shaw
Looking for information about GrowGroups?
GrowGroups are small groups that meet on Sunday mornings as well as during the week, Bible Studies, topical classes and other small group spiritual formation opportunities.
We believe in the importance of Christian community. If you are interested in getting connected to a GrowGroup or Sunday school class, please contact Candace Shaw.
Learn more about GrowGroups at PWC & access GrowGroup materials here:
Current Sermon Series
Sermon Series & Seasonal Resources
The Prophetic Imagination by Walter Brueggemann
A foundational text in biblical theology, The Prophetic Imagination offers a compelling exploration of the Hebrew Bible's vision for an alternative, prophetic community that opposes oppressive power structures. This classic book is essential for understanding the roots of prophetic resistance and imaginative hope.
Shadow & Light: A Journey into Advent by Tsh Oxenreider
This seasonal devotional is a rich yet approachable experience that invites you to explore the historical meaning of Advent. Drawing from liturgical tradition, Tsh provides fresh insights for new and longtime believers alike. Each day includes Scripture, a reflection, a question, and a simple activity to engage the senses, such as lighting candles, listening to music, and viewing artwork both old and new.
I Never Thought of It That Way by Mónica Guzmán
In this timely, personal guide, Guzmán shows us a path for how to have fearlessly curious conversations in dangerously divided times.
God Speaks Through Wombs by Drew Jackson
In this dynamic collection of poems, Drew Jackson explores the first eight chapters of Luke's Gospel. These are declarative poems, faithfully proclaiming the gospel story in all its liberative power. Here the gospel is the "fresh words / that speak of / things impossible." This powerful poetry helps us hear the hum of deliverance-against all hope-that's been in the gospel all along.
With tender curiosity and contemplative wisdom, Every Season Sacred is a weekly invitation to grow spiritually alongside our children. Blending thoughtful musings and practical resources, author Kayla Craig meets parents right where they are. Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together.
The Methodist Book of Daily Prayer by Matt Miofsky
This book is for people who seek to strengthen and sustain their spiritual lives with a daily practice Scripture reading and prayer. It provides complete texts for Morning Prayers and Evening Prayers, with brief passages of scripture and reflective readings for five days each week.
Staff Resource Picks
Paths to Prayer
By: Patricia D. Brown
Picked by: Yvi Martin, Lead Pastor
Discover Your Prayer Type and Explore 40 Ways to Pray from 2000 Years of Christian Tradition.
Right Here, Right Now
By: Amy G. Oden
Picked by: Mat Thornton, Associate Pastor
This book reveals the Christian roots of mindfulness and the actual practices that, when reclaimed, deepen the life of faith and the power of our mission of love in the world.
Mission - Vision - Values - Practices
Learn more about our Mission, Vision, Core Values and what inspires PWC here:
Spiritual Practices Resources
GATHER
Worship
Worship Comes to Its Senses by Don E. Saliers
Black Liturgies by Cole Arthur Riley
The Divine Hours by Phyllis Tickle
Sacraments
United Methodists and the Sacraments by Gayle Carlton Felton
GROW
Scripture
Bible translations we frequently use: Common English Bible, NRSV, The Message
The Bible Project (Biblical Resources—video and text)
The Bible Tells Me So by Peter Enns
Inspired by Rachel Held Evans
Prayer
Paths to Prayer by Patricia D. Brown
A Rhythm of Prayer: A Collection of Meditations for Renewal edited by Sarah Bessey
The Lives We Actually Have: 100 Blessings for Imperfect Days by Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie
Right Here Right Now: The Practice of Christian Mindfulness by Amy G. Oden
GIVE
Sabbath
Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey
Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No to the Culture of Now by Walter Brueggemann
Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster
Tithe
Saving Grace from Abingdon Press
Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity by Adam Hamilton
GO
Mercy and Justice
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero
Dear White Peacemakers by Osheta Moore
A Christian Justice for the Common Good by Tex Sample
My Body is Not a Prayer Request: Disability Justice in the Church by Amy Kenny
Pilgrimage
An Altar in the World by Barbara Brown Taylor
Walk a Labyrinth near you
Inclement Weather Procedure
WEEKDAYS: In the event of cancellations due to inclement weather on weekdays, PWUMC will contact the leader of any group scheduled in the building that day. In addition, the most up to date information regarding event cancellations can be found on the Platte Woods United Methodist Church Facebook page and, when necessary, notification will be made to our E-News subscribers.
SUNBEAMS PRESCHOOL & PARENTS DAY OUT: These programs will be closed when the Park Hill School District calls for a snow day or an AMI day, including delayed starts or early dismissals.
SUNDAY WORSHIP: Please note that only under the most extreme weather conditions will worship services be canceled. If a cancellation occurs, notification can be found on the Events page our website, on TV channel KMBC-9, or by calling the church phone line (816-741-2972).