Monday, June 30, 2008
update
flight is usair #42 to DCA.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Day 11
Make sure that you check the day 10 pictures because I uploaded more and will upload more later.
(to be uploaded) Day 11 Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/Day11
Today we gather at Community UMC for our L.A. leg of the trip. We arrived at Dodgers stadium for our stadium tour this morning. We were able to go in conference rooms, suites, look into locker rooms, go on the field, get into the dugout, and more. We learned about the history of the team and the stadium. If you are ever in L.A. I recommend it. This is the team's 50 year anniversary. We got to see their World Series trophies and gold medals from the Olympics from the 1980's. Jackie Robinson's number is 42 and you see it through out the tour. If you see pictures of jerseys they are the real ones worn or given to players.
We only had a short time to eat lunch because we had to be at Paramount Studios for our tour. We decided to eat at In and Out Burger, which is a popular local burger joint that is family owned and run. There is only 4 things to eat on the main menu. They are also a Christian centered business. If you look at the bottom of one of their cups they have John 3:16 printed, almost hidden. We had only about 45 minutes to get 80 people "in and out". We did it and they also served the other 50 people who were there for the lunch hour. The youth loved it. The chain is something of a popular spot in Southern CA.
After our lunch, we made it over to Paramount. Our two hour tour included sets, movie secrets, city movie blocks, studio grounds, back lots, viewing rooms, projector room, and more. EVERYONE is very nice at Paramount. The industry is know for egos and divas, but people who work at Paramount are down to earth (at lease the ones we met). While on the set of "Everyone Hates Chris" (the Chris Rock show) I inadvertently disturbed some props. The show is set in the 1980's and so they had some 80's text books on the set. I picked one up and remarked, "Hey, I think I had this textbook in elementary school" as a joke. Thats when we found out that we were not supposed to touch the props... oops. We did not see any stars, but one group did get to see a scene filmed. Some of us were able to go into the private theater where directors and actors see films before they are released. We also were able to go to the projector rooms and were introduced to how films are displayed.
We were received warmly by the good people of Rachos Palos Verdes at St. Peter's by the Sea Presbyterian Church. They had a wonderful dinner prepared for us. Now, I am in the back of the sanctuary listening to the choir and they sound amazing. The youth have really hung in there on this two week trip. Please continue to pray.
Check back for my sermon text that I will be preaching on at FBC Glendale on Sunday morning, which is based on our tour theme "Many Gifts, One Spirit." My pastor, mentor, and friend Charlie Updike has graciously allowed me to share the Word on Sunday morning. Also, check back in the next few days and weeks for video. It takes a lot of time to upload video and I do not have that luxury of uploading for hours. When I get back I can upload tons of video.
Pastor Alan Rudnick
Fw: Thanks for the ministry of the CW Singers and St C Orchestra
> ------- Original Message -------
> From: "Andrew Irvin"
> To: walterg.edmonds@verizon.net, Alan.Rudnick@verizon.net, polly@pollyedmonds.com
> Sent: 6/24/2008, 10:36:40 PM
> Subject: Thanks for the ministry of the CW Singers and St C Orchestra
>
> Dear Polly and Pastors Walt and Alan,
>
>
>
> I attended the concert tonight at Wesley UMC here in Bakersfield and just
> have to tell you how much it touched and moved me to see a chancel bursting
> with students playing and singing to the glory of God. and making great
> music as well.
>
>
>
> I came to the concert a little skeptical. I'm a great fan of good music,
> but "kids" singing Schubert in the summertime? Well, they won me over!!
> From the first chord of "O Magnum" to the last notes of "River in Judea"
> they gave us a beautiful, and more importantly, a worshipful, experience.
> Men - especially the tenors (since I am a tenor, I know who the real men
> are.) - what a great sound you have. I hope that you take pride in being
> part of this choir. And, young women, you had such a marvelous blend. You
> sang with excellent intonation and attention to musical details (that's
> partly because you have amazing musical leadership!), and many of you
> actually looked like you were having a good time doing it! I congratulate
> you!
>
>
>
> I also very much appreciated the demeanor of the group off-stage as well.
> The students I observed were friendly, respectful, and grateful. I have
> worked with students as a teacher and in church ministry, I have daughters
> in middle and high school, and I still barely remember being a student. :-)
> I know that beautiful music is carried even further by the manner in which
> your students interacted while they were among us.
>
>
>
> Thanks for your work in inspiring students, involving them in making music
> for the Lord to hear (and us), and training part of the next generation of
> worshipers and worship leaders.
>
>
>
> May the Lord bless and keep you.
>
>
>
> In Christ,
>
>
>
> Andrew
>
>
>
> Andrew G. Irvin
>
> Worship Director
>
> First United Methodist Church
>
> http://andrewirvin.blogspot.com/ <http://www.firstuworship.com/>
>
> <http://www.fumcbakersfield.org/> www.fumcbakersfield.org
>
> 4600 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93309
>
> Phone: 661-325-1267
>
>
>
>
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Day Ten
Day ten pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayTen
Today we loaded up and went to Wayfarers Chapel in Racho Palos Verdes. It is a beautiful chapel designed by Lloyd Wright, which is Frank Lloyd Wright's son. There were no right angles in the church design. It held only about 100 people, but a lot of wedding and baptisms area held there. The youth sang 3 songs and totally blew away the chapel staff. They were truly amazing. The grounds of the chapel are right on the shore and overlooks the Pacific. Check out the pics.
Then we departed and made our way to Hollywood, more specifically Hollywood and Highland. That intersection is a popular tourist stop with many outdoor performers and musicians. No stars in this area, just their sidewalk stars. We ate lunch and toured the Chinese Theater. It was a huge place where they hold a lot of premieres of major movies.
We had dinner at Hard Rock Cafe near Universal Studios. It was a two level restaurant on the city walk area of Universal. When I toured the area in the late 80's that section of shoping was not there. The youth had a great time walking around checking out the shops and performers. We headed back to the church for tour time and reflection.
Pastor Alan Rudnick
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Day Nine
Tour Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayNine
Today we had breakfast at Wesley UMC in Bakersfield. That was the only time so far that a church has hosted us for breakfast. We then headed to Huntington Beach. We got to the beach and met up with the youth from Community UMC. We played volleyball, laid on the beach, jumped in the water, and ate lunch. We had a nice time and the weather was perfect. The water was a nice blue color.
There were a few of us in the water playing and people on the beach started yelling. Someone yelled shark, but we were not sure what they were saying. I started moving toward the beach and saw that there were dolphins in the water, not sharks. What a joke. The water warmed up and was very pleasant.
We then made our way to the church and showered and changed. The youth gave a great concert and were ready to head for the host homes. Usually, I try to get the youth to smile during a song or two by dancing. They usually perk up.
Pastor Alan Rudnick
Day Eight
Day Eight Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayEight
Today we loaded up at Los Altos UMC and headed out to Bakersfield, CA. As we drove, we past a huge lake that was so low you could see the bands of the rock that is supposed to be under the water. There was a good 100 feet difference between the highest waterline and where the current waterline was. We rode for about four hours and got to Bakersfield, which was VERY hot. They are hurting for water out here, but they still water their grass. Even the city governments water the grass along the freeways.
A few of the church women allowed us to use their community pool and take over one lady's house. We were all able to eat and change in one person's home. Her house was right in front of the community pool, which we had full use of. It was warm, but it was refreshing to jump in the pool. A big thanks to Jerry Ludeke for coordinating everything! We had some good games of belly flops, water volleyball, and general splashing activities. I was able to stay in the pool without getting dunked, although there were several attempts on my life.
At about 4pm, we loaded up for the church. The turn-out was great. There were number of people from Wesley UMC and other area churches. My hosts talked about how they enjoyed the music and wanted us to come back. In the last few concerts the guys were able to sing "I Love You Lord", which has been met with a great deal of praise. There is something about a men's choir that sounds awesome. At least to me anyway.
I did not know that Bakersfield was the county music capital of the West. Apparently, a lot of country stars have put down roots in this area. The youth are holding up well with this tour. It has been long, but everyone is holding together well. Please continue to pray for our trip.
Pastor Alan Rudnick
Monday, June 23, 2008
Day Seven
Day Seven Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DaySeven02
Today we left the hotel in Concord for San Francisco. We arrived at Fisherman's Wharf for our Alcatraz Tour. We had to break into two groups in order to get on the island. There is a tour company that runs the boats to and from the Rock (as they call it). The boats were nice and roomy inside. Although, some of us were a little unprepared for the cold San Fran weather. We got by because the youth loaned blankets and sweatshirts to others.
Once we got on Alcatraz we had to make the trek to the jail house. The road was steep but walkable. Although the way, you could read about the other buildings on the island. Once at the top, you got to walk and around and read about how inmates entered the island. Then, there was about a 50 minute audio tour that was produced very well. The audio tour was on a digital mp3 player and took you through the whole history of prison. At some points it was a little creepy walking into the cells and thinking that men spent their lives in there. On the audio tour you learn that guard's families lived on the island. In the gift shop you are able to buy a piece of the prison and support the restoration.
We all met back at pier 39 and everyone had free time for a few hours. It has been about 17 or 18 years since I have been to San Fran and the surround area. Fishermen's Wharf has changed into a very touristy area with shops. We loaded up for Los Altos, CA for our evening concert. The youth did a great job and the congregation enjoyed the music.
Day Six
Day Six Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DaySix
We departed the hotel in Concord, CA for Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church. We led worship in both services Sunday morning. The church, which was beautiful, was large and had an active community. The church was VERY receptive to our young people. I do not think they have a choir and music program as large as DUMC. They served us a great lunch and we loaded up for the rest of our day.
We made our way to sky high sports, which is a giant indoor trampoline place. The youth and adults had a great time jumping, playing dodge ball, and diving into their foam pit. Unfortunately, Beth Taylor incurred a bad ankle sprain and had to be taken to the hospital for x-rays. No broken bones, and the good thing is that she will be alright. Please pray for Beth's healing. The youth really got some energy out and enjoyed the activity.
Then, we headed over to Santa Clara park for some relaxing and rest. Some sat and played games, others talked, and some even had the energy to play volleyball and soccer! It was good to get in the shade and relax. After about two hours we ate dinner at an all-you-can-eat place. It worked out well. Unfortunately, our original plans had to be changed because the original restaurant could not take us. We headed back to the hotel after a long day for some sleep.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
We Are March (atop Vista House in Portland)
This was pretty cool. We sang in the Vista House, which is on a overlook of the Columbia River in Portland. Great acoustics. People starting filling in once they heard the music. Visitors were impressed.
Day Five
Day Five Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayFive
Dave Five Pics Part two: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayFivePt2
Most of us stayed in a hotel last night. The breakfast room was basically an opened hotel room. That was not so bad, but the breaker blew and there was one lady running the hotel and she was totally overwhelmed with guests checking out and dealing with the breaker. We managed to get some breakfast and we left Eureka, CA today and drove through another section of redwoods. It’s like driving through the movie Jurassic Park. At noon we stopped for lunch.
After lunch we arrived in Sausalito, CA which overlooks San Fran bay and the city. It’s a trendy little town, like something you would find in Italy. Lots of people and places to check out. Today was our first real hot day, which was about 90 degrees at 3pm when we unloaded. We all roamed around and everyone had dinner on the their own. A lot of the chaperones ate at a nice seafood place on the water. They had a great fish and chips, with sole being the fish. We got a lot of good pictures.
When then found our way to the Golden Gate bridge. It is not very golden (it's red), but certainly a bridge. We got some good distance shots of the bridge. After that, we found our way to the bridge and were able to walk on it. The temperature came down about 25 degrees and the wind was alternating between warm and cool air. Strange. As we drove away we could see some fires in the mountains with a glow and lots of smoke. These must be the locations we see on CNN where wildfires are burning up homes and forests.
We made our way to the hotel and met for tour time. During tour time, we go around and talk about favorite moments on the trip. I usually end the time with a 5-10 minute devotional or thought. Tonight, I challenged the youth to think about what gifts has God given them. We also talked about how when God gives you something, you must use that gift and not let the gift go unused.
I will try to get some videos up of different things on the trip. The video will come as new posts. Again, internet connections are difficult to come by between churches, hotels, and host homes.
I called the guy at the front desk of the hotel to help with an internet connection. He said he was sending someone to help. Its been 8 hours and no one came. Right now, it's Sunday morning and I am using a church's connection.
Day Four
Day Four Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayFour
Today we departed from McMinnville, OR to Eureka, CA. It was a 7.5 hour drive. The drive went by surprisingly quick. When we left we came to a river. I got concerned because the road we were on had no bridge. I then noticed that were was a ferry. I looked at the size of the ferry, then look at the size of the buses and it was not looking too good. I made a video of it thinking that the adventurous ride would prove to be entertaining, but it was not. We ended up turning around because we were too long.
We stopped for lunch and got back on the road. We also drove through the Redwood National Park area. We were only able to stop for a few minutes to check out the huge redwoods and take pictures. The last time I was in the Redwoods was when I was about 9 years old and they still look huge to me.
We arrived in Eureka to Christ Episcopal Church. We were running a bit behind time and were able to unload, eat, and practice before the concert. The church had been kept well since the church’s founding in the 1800’s. Eureka is a neat town. It is right next to the Pacific Ocean. The concert went well and the congregation was very receptive to the music and had a great deal of praise for the youth.
On a side note, I have been fighting an infection on my finger the past few days. I don’t know why these benign little aliments happen to me, but they do. For instance, I am still recovering from a terrible ankle dislocation from Memorial Day. Back to the infection: The day we left my figure was reddish, but I didn’t think much of it, but then it got worse. A few days later, Gina Wilson was concerned about it and we called in some antibiotics. I am taking them and it looks like I am on the mend.
Tonight, some of us were in host homes and others were in a hotel. I was in the hotel, which had no A/C but apparently in Eureka, “no one has A/C”, or so the desk manger said. A few of the adults found out too late that all you needed to do was to open the window to cool the room down. There was a switch in the rooms that was labeled “fan” and “heat” along with a thermostat. Some of the rooms were left in the heat position and It seems that some in the rooms did not realize that they were actually turning on the heat!
We are now a few days into the trip and it looks like the youth are doing well with traveling and singing. We have been really lucky with the relatively cool weather. I called my friend in LA and he said that it was 98 degrees in southern CA.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Day 3
Here are day two pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayTwo
Here are day three pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/dumcyouthgroup/DayThree
Today was a beautiful day in Portland. The locals were talking about how they do not get this much sun! Looks like we brought good weather. We loaded up at First UMC in Portland and we were off to St. Mary Cathedral, which is known for their wonderful stained glass and structural design. Check out the picture link at the start of this blog entry. Deacon Tom guided us throughout his church explaining how every design of the glass and the particulars of the church. The youth took a lot of pictures and were interested in the amazing stained glass. I was surprised to learn that the Catholic church is moving to baptism by immersion for infants and adults. Wow, for a Baptist that is a BIG deal. The deacon remarked that they wanted to closely follow the early tradition of baptism by dunking, dipping, or immersion – which is the “baptizo” in the Greek New Testament.
After leaving the catholic church we headed to The Rose Garden in Portland. I have never seen so many different kinds of roses. Big, little, small, smelly, pink, red, orange, and yellow. Again, check out the pictures. It was there that we learned that Tucker Richard died today. The group took time to pray for the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with the you all.
We then let the youth and adults spend time in Pioneer Square in downtown Portland. Being in downtown Portland nothing like being in downtown D.C. Portland is such a kind city… clean too. We let the youth eat at the mall, check out Nike Town, and look around the city (in groups of 3 or more of course).
Now, the concert is starting here in Mcminville, OR and the youth just finished a wonderful dinner provided by the church community. The church is yoked by a Methodist and Lutheran church. It works well here. The youth sound amazing and the Mass in G is just awesome. You all should be proud of them.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Day Two
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I have limited internet so I am going to make this fast. We all met up to go and do some sight seeing. Everyone got some sleep and we were able to see the greater portland area. We first went to an awesome waterfall and got some great pictures. After that, we went to vista house and got a great view of the columbia river. We ate lunch and headed to horse trail trail. Some took a dip in the smaller waterfall.
We just got to the church and it took me about an hour to get online. I am going to attach as many pictures as possible. Tonight is our first concert and the youth are excited to sing.
I will update this blog tomorrow. One note: this blog will also post about the preceeding day. So tomorrow you will get today's info.
Feel free to post feedback or comments.
Pastor Alan
- UPDATED Day One part 2
(pt/
Well, hopefully this blog will find its way. We are having a great time and the youth are doing well with the travel. It is 10:25 on Wednesday morning. Yesterday, the youth did very well with getting into the security line and to the gate. Both connections on the US Air flight were a little late getting into the air. The flight was long, but the youth and adults did well and got to sleep. When we arrived to Phoenix it was warm in the airport, but our layover was very short.
Once we got into Portland the weather was cooler and was welcomed. We met up with the Northwest flight group and met up with the buses. Michael Wilcott met us and we were on our way to the trendy areas of Portland. Portland is definitely a west coast town. People are a lot more relaxed. A lot of people take public transit because the city is configured in such a way that all you have to do is board a large modern light rail line and you arrive at your destination. There is a great deal of bicycling in Portland and the city opens its self to a calmer pace of life. It’s amazing to be in a city where everyone is not rushing around in a rude fashion to get to point A to point B.
We visited some shops, checked out one of the largest bookstores in the country, visited an art show, heard live music, and had fun in a local park. We then met our hosts at First UMC and went to bed. Some of us were in a hotels and a few guys (including myself) were in a church.
Bear with me because the time difference is a bit prohibitive to getting internet. By the time I can get on the internet it is already 9am or 10am EST.
Pastor Alan
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Day One (part 1)
-Pastor Alan