Holy Week Collaboration Continues in North KC Area

The United Methodist denomination has a rich history of connection. With the itineracy system, pastors often move, allowing for connection all over their home state. With the connectional system, the collaboration also becomes an opportunity. In the Northland of Kansas City, Missouri, one such collaboration has been going on for over seven years. Avondale UMC, Faubion UMC, Gashland UMC, and North Cross UMCs collaborate every year for Holy Week. Pastors gather to plan out a theme for their services and who will host which service. This collaboration has been going strong even through multiple pastoral changes over the years. 

This year Gashland UMC hosted Maundy Thursday, where the theme of abundance was primary. Jesus did so much of his ministry at tables, eating with people. Gashland used its Gathering Area to showcase beautiful charcuterie boards made by congregation members and a coffee bar. The theme continued with North Cross UMC hosting a Good Friday service and a collaborative Chancel Choir. Remnants from communion and the charcuterie boards were brought to North Cross and displayed as a symbol of death that we experience on Good Friday with the death of Jesus. 

Sunrise Service at Faubion brings about the joy and return of hope as Jesus is resurrected. Each church hosts their own Easter Sunday service. Vickie Bishop, a Gashland member, posits, “For me, collaborating with other churches is motivating and reinvigorates my faith journey.  Participating with other churches is more meaningful to me than just visiting another church ... which is why I enjoy the choir collaborations especially.”

Seeing old friends through this collaboration has been a highlight for the many who attend these four churches. The pastors hope that this collaboration continues for decades. Just one way that we can be connectional and collaborative during a season of preparation and grief and end with celebration for the risen Christ.