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Through The Eyes Of Love -- Ephesians 2:13-14a -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
This morning I have brought a small pair of binoculars and begin by asking the children, "How many o
Amazing Grace -- 1 Peter 3:15b -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children note the blank sheet of white paper I have placed on the floor in front of them I as
Don't Lose Your Marbles! -- 2 Timothy 1:7 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children group themselves on the chancel steps, I hold up a muslin bag and shake it.
A Basket Of Angels -- Matthew 28:2-3 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
It is Easter.
No Strings Attached -- John 3:16 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"My stuffed cat, Cecil, and I would like to invite all the young people to come join us on the steps
Wings -- Luke 17:20-21 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Without a doubt, Julia was a caterpillar!
Crumbs -- Matthew 15:26-27 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
This is a difficult text even for adults.
Catfishing? -- Luke 5:3-9 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Would one of you hold this for me?" I extend a long plastic pole with a nylon line tied to one end
Tall Enough -- Psalm 121:1-2 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Is anyone here this morning who is eight years old?" One young lady, somewhat shyly, holds up her
Listening -- Matthew 13:1-9 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Why are you here this morning?" I ask the children who have assembled on the chancel steps -- at my
Earthen Vessels -- 2 Corinthians 4:6-7 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"I've brought two small things this morning to pass around so you can look at them.
Living Water -- John 4:10 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children gather on the steps they see I am holding a small cactus planted in a pot shaped lik
Strength In Meekness -- Matthew 5:5 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"We have been talking about the Beatitudes the last few weeks.
Alone -- Matthew 28:19-20 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"I've brought a big book with me today.
Masks -- 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Good morning, children! Some of you are laughing. Why is that?"
People And Pencils -- Matthew 18:21-22 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Suddenly it's September, which for many of us brings the beginning of school," I begin.
Cows In Church -- Luke 2:7 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"We have some competition for our space on the chancel steps this morning.
"Invisible" Milk -- Proverbs 29:20 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"I have a story to tell you this morning about something that happened when I was five.
Peanuts For Breakfast -- Romans 14:2-4a, 7-8 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
It seemed to me, as I thought about this text, that the best way to get its message across to young
Don't Run Away! -- Jonah 1:1-3a -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"How many of you have ever been asked to do something you didn't want to do?" Hands immediately fly
Leaping On The Laundry -- Joshua 1:9 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Is today a special day for someone in your family?" Heads nod eagerly; faces light up with knowing
Tears -- John 11:32-36 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"This morning I have brought something all of you will probably recognize.
Turning Around -- Mark 1:14-20 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children gather on the chancel steps, they sit down as usual.
God Was A Child Too -- Luke 2:41-47 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
About twenty children have come forward at my invitation to sit on the chancel steps.
Rainbows -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"This morning I need all of you to help me understand a verse of scripture.

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SermonStudio

Epiphany 4 / OT 4 -- Micah 6:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice,
May God Be Gracious To Us -- Psalm 67 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us,
The Day Of Pentecost -- 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2007
... no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except by the Holy Spirit.
Proper 23 / Pentecost 21 / OT 28 -- Exodus 32:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
... These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.
Advent 4 -- Isaiah 7:10-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.
Protect Me, O God -- Psalm 16 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I keep the LORD always before me;
Contend, O LORD, With Those With Those Who Contend With Me -- Psalm 35 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me;
Passion/Palm Sunday -- Matthew 21:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David!
Proper 15 / Pentecost 13 / OT 20 -- Genesis 45:1-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2007
And now do not be distressed, or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here; for God sent me
Epiphany 9 / OT 9 -- Deuteronomy 11:18-21, 26-28 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2007
You shall put these words of mine in your heart and soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on yo
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / OT 11 -- Romans 6:1b-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
Should we continue in sin in order that grace may abound?-- Romans 6:1b
In My Distress I Cry To The LORD -- Psalm 120 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Too long have I had my dwelling among those who hate peace. I am for peace;
Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / OT 33 -- Judges 4:1-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
At that time Deborah, a prophetess ... was judging Israel.-- Judges 4:4
Make A Joyful Noise To The LORD -- Psalm 100 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Worship the LORD with gladness; come into his presence with singing ...
Epiphany 4 / OT 4 -- Psalm 15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
Who may dwell on your holy hill? -- Psalm 15:1
Let God Rise Up, Let His Enemies Be Scattered -- Psalm 68 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
But let the righteous be joyful; let them exult before God;
The Day Of Pentecost -- John 20:19-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2007
When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit.
Proper 23 / Pentecost 21 / OT 28 -- Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
Remember me, O Lord, when you show favor to your people; help me when you deliver them ...
Advent 4 -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.-- Psalm 80:3
Hear A Just Cause, O LORD -- Psalm 17 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Wondrously show your steadfast love, O Savior of those who seek refuge
Transgression Speaks To The Wicked -- Psalm 36 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in their hearts;
Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
...
Proper 15 / Pentecost 13 / OT 20 -- Psalm 133 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2007
How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!
Epiphany 9 / OT 9 -- Psalm 31:1-5, 19-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2007
You are indeed my rock and my fortress; for your name's sake lead me and guide me.
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / OT 11 -- Matthew 10:24-39 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
...

Drama

SermonStudio

It Used To Be The Two-Bottom Plow -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Nothing hampers the move of God in a congregation more than the rigidity to religious traditions
The Ugly Duckling -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This play may be presented as a unit, or divided up into Scene 1 and Scene 2 on consecutive Sunda
Through The Back Door -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
When Christians pray, the forces of evil tremble.
A Call To Worship -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
This drama, to be used at the beginning of the worship service, brings back into focus the real r
It's Called Forgiveness -- Matthew 6:14-15 -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
In the family of God, forgiveness is a command, not a choice.
When God Has Other Plans -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Yielding to the plan of God for one's life is often difficult.
The Color Of Diversity -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
Diversity in life, especially in the body of Christ, is something to be welcomed and nurtured.
The Insignificant Valentine -- Karren Boehr -- 2000
The small, insignificant things people do in life often carry more impact than they realize.
On A Picnic -- Mark 7:1-23 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1999
Theme: Speaking about love is always a lot easier than loving.
The Boss -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1999
Theme
All Things Well -- Mark 7:31-37 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1999
Theme:
Who Are You? -- John 1:6-8,19-28 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1999
ThemeKnowing who you are and who you aren't.Summary
The Way It Works -- Mark 6:1-6 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1999
ThemeHow is our forgiveness related to Jesus?Summary
Lust -- Mark 9:14-29 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1999
Theme
The Meeting -- Luke 1:26-56 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1999
ThemeGreat faith encourages the worship of God.Summary
Transfigu-what? -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1999
ThemeHow does the transfiguration of Jesus affect us?Summary
Forgive And Heal -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1999
ThemeJesus is God and proves it by forgiving sin and healing.Summary
Jesus' Visit -- John 20:19-31 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Theme
The Remote Revisited -- John 3:1-16 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1999
Theme
Greatness -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 1999
Theme
The Cure For The Slump -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
ThemeIf we could talk to Jesus, how would that change us?Summary
The Birthday -- John 1:1-14 -- Robert F. Crowley -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1999
ThemeThe Holy Spirit works to bring everyone to Jesus.Summary
Hell! -- Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1999
Theme
The Shepherd, The Wolf, And The Sheep -- John 10:11-16 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
ThemeThe Good Shepherd, Jesus, will look after you if you know him.
Money Business -- John 1:1-18 -- Robert F. Crowley -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1999
ThemeGiving to others is the real spirit of Christmas.Summary

Easter

Faith Development

Fellowship

Funeral

Gathering Prayer

Healing

Home Blessing

Humor

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Inspirational

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Lent/Easter

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SermonStudio

The existential, practical Trinity -- John 3:1-17 -- Dennis Koch -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The story of Nicodemus brings together the basic elements of
Human customs versus divine commandments -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: These excerpts deal with two rather loosely related issues:
Proclaiming the incredible -- Mark 7:24-37 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The point of the story for Mark appears not to be to signal
Reasonable doubt, irrefutable evidence -- John 20:19-31 -- Dennis Koch -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: In a narrative that intentionally describes appearances of the
Delayed hopes Ä devoutly trusted, divinely fulfilled -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Dennis Koch -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The elderly Simeon and Anna, both models of patient faith in
Reading the scriptures with open minds -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- Dennis Koch -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Luke uses here a post-resurrection appearance story that, in
Jesus is the incarnate Word -- John 1:1-18 -- Dennis Koch -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The Word is God in his pre-Jesus existence and his coming
The self-sacrifice of the Good Shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- Dennis Koch -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The focus of this passage is not the image of "sheep," which
God's Word in fullness and flesh -- John 1:1-14 -- Dennis Koch -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: John's reworking of this pre-Christmas hymn implies an irony:
The invisible God made visible in love -- John 15:1-8 -- Dennis Koch -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This exhortation to love grounds human love in God's prior
News too good to keep -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Dennis Koch -- 1993
Gospel Note: The shepherds, having heard the angelic message, go to
The church as Christ's loving friends -- John 15:9-17 -- Dennis Koch -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Christ's love for his disciples mirrors the Father's love for
The followers of Christ as consecrated foreigners -- John 17:6-19 -- Dennis Koch -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This passage is a portion of Christ's "high priestly," parting
Worship the Christ -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Why are they called "wise?" The wise men were more than men
The call to discipleship -- John 1:43-51 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Jesus calls Philip to follow him. Nathanael questions who
Leaving old occupations for a new profession -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark's version of how Peter and Andrew became Jesus'
The abundant, apparent authority of Jesus -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: As the reaction of the people both before and after this first
A message more important than miracles -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark reflects his characteristic viewpoint on miracles in
The secret that cannot be silenced or suppressed -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: This passage presents a conventional miracle story with Mark's
Divine activity, demonstrable authority -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Dennis Koch -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Mark here records Jesus' forgiveness of a paralytic as well as
PRAYERS FOR THE LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH -- C. David Godshall -- 1986
The Advent Wreath is a beautiful symbol of preparation during the season when we ready ourselves - s
Christmas Day -- C. David Godshall -- 1986
Pastor:Lord God, you have sent many messengers to your people.
Epiphany 7 -- C. David Godshall -- 1986
Assistant: One of the ways in which we understand that we are your people, O God, is to picture ours
Passion or Palm Sunday -- C. David Godshall -- 1986
(Based on a hymn text by Henry H. Milman)Assistant: Ride on, ride on in majesty!
Easter 7 -- C. David Godshall -- 1986
Pastor:

Preaching

SermonStudio

Christmas Eve/Christmas Day -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Carlos Wilton -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Jesus Christ is God incarnate.
Proper 19/Pentecost 17/Ordinary Time 24 -- Psalm 19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2006
Psalm 19 celebrates two different media through which God is revealed: nature and the law.
Proper 9/Pentecost 7/Ordinary Time 14 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2006
Today the lectionary identifies a second, alternative psalm selection besides the Psalm 45:10-17 roy
Proper 8/Pentecost 6/Ordinary Time 13 -- Psalm 130 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2006
(See Lent 5, Cycle A, for an alternative approach.)
Proper 10 / Ordinary Time 15 / Pentecost 7 -- Psalm 119:105-112 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2006
Psalm 119 is a rich treasure trove of wisdom.
Advent 2 -- Luke 1:68-79 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
(See Christ The King/Proper 29, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
God's Power -- Genesis 1:1-5 -- 2006
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Proper 5/Pentecost 3/Ordinary Time 10 -- 1 Kings 17:8-24, Galatians 1:11-24, Luke 7:11-17 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 25 / Ordinary Time 30 / Pentecost 20 -- Psalm 65 -- James Evans -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2006
(See Thanksgiving Day, Cycle A, for an alternative approach.)
Palm Sunday/Sunday Of The Passion -- Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Liturgy Of The Palms, Cycle A; see also The Re
Christlike Humility/Obedient Unto Death -- Philippians 2:5-8 -- 2006
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not
Christ The King/Proper 29 -- Psalm 100 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2006
This brief psalm is among the most familiar in the psalter, but that is primarily because its verses
Ash Wednesday -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2006
The superscription to this psalm identifies its origins with David's prayer after the prophet Nathan
Epiphany 7/Ordinary Time 7 -- Psalm 119:33-40 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2006
Like last week's selection from the opening portion of this same psalm, today's selection celebrates
Access To God -- Mark 15:33-39 -- 2006
At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour.
First Sunday After Christmas -- 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Colossians 3:12-17, Luke 2:41-52 -- Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 9/Pentecost 7/Ordinary Time 14 -- Psalm 48 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2006
Psalm 48 is a song of praise celebrating the presence of God.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Psalm 93 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary.
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 12:2-6 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
(See Proper 28/Pentecost 26/Ordinary Time 33, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
Liberation -- Genesis 15:12-16 -- 2006
As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over
Proper 6/Pentecost 4/Ordinary Time 11 -- 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a, Galatians 2:15-21, Luke 7:36--8:3 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 26/Pentecost 24/Ordinary Time 31 -- Psalm 119:137-144 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2006
The psalmist exuberantly expresses his sense of joy and love for God's Law.
Palm Sunday/Sunday Of The Passion -- Psalm 31:9-16 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Liturgy Of The Passion, Cycles A and B for alt
The Reconciliation That Leads To Peace -- Colossians 1:15-20 -- 2006
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.
Psalm 149 (Proper 18 / Ordinary Time 23 / Pentecost 15) -- Psalm 149 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2006
(See All Saints, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

The Most Famous Thing Jesus Ever Said! -- Matthew 7:12 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
So, in everything, do unto others as you would have them do unto you, for this sums up the law an
Poverty Of Spirit -- Matthew 5:3 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Birthdays And Marriages -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
It is common to speak of Pentecost as the birthday of the church.
The Utmost Patience For The Foremost Sinner -- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 -- Scott Suskovic -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2009
We usually don't spend too much time thinking about our own sinfulness.
Born At Bethlehem -- Hope -- Micah 5:2-5a -- Derl G. Keefer -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Ellyn Sanna was twelve years old when she went on a camping trip to New England with her family.
Born In Bethlehem -- Light -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Derl G. Keefer -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2009
Have you ever awakened in the early hours before dawn? Thick darkness covers the earth.
Passing The Test -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
"Students, it is time to get out your pencils, close your books and remove any notes from your desks
Sit Up And Speak! -- Luke 7:11-17 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2009
The telephone rang in my office one day, and a mother, a member of my parish, blurted out, "Oh, past
Door Number One Or Door Number Two? -- Matthew 7:13-14 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Enter by the narrow gate.
Blessed Are Those Who... What? -- Matthew 5:4 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.-- Matthew 5:4
God's Playful Wisdom -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
If I mentioned Sophia to you, what memories would it evoke?
A Peaceful Life In An Unpeaceful World -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2009
I'm tempted to ask for a show of hands.
Hidden Potential -- 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 -- Derl G. Keefer -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2009
Home and Garden television produces a program titled Hidden Potential hosted by Brandie Malay
A New Point Of View -- 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
In 2000, Mel Gibson appeared in the comedy, What Women Want.
The Forgiven Love A Lot! -- Luke 7:36--8:3 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
One day it became obvious that I needed to tell my two daughters, Soon Ah and Rebekah, this story --
The Heart Of The Matter -- Matthew 7:15-23 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
The Beautiful Attitude Of Humility -- Matthew 5:5 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.-- Matthew 5:5
Mugwumpers -- 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2009
In certain streams of Christianity, it is common to speak of people being "born again." The phrase c
How Rich Is Rich? -- 1 Timothy 6:6-19 -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2009
We can simply stay away from some of the things that are bad for us.
From Tragedy To Salvation -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2009
On January 13, 1982, Washington DC and the surrounding area experienced a blizzard that paralyzed ev
Running The Race -- Philippians 3:4b-14 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Every week in our country millions of people go to stadiums and arenas to participate in the thrills
Liberating The Possessed -- Luke 8:26-39 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
He is a tortured man! His hair is tossed and tousled.
The Measure Of Success -- Matthew 7:24-29 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
"Everyone then who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built h
Happy The Hungry Hearts -- Matthew 5:6 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
The Sinner And The Sinned Against -- 1 Kings 17:1-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2009
Each of us experiences the world as both sinner and the sinned against.

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Angels In Haunted Places -- Matthew 14:22-33 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2004
Richard H. Gentzler, Jr.
Right Here In My Church -- Luke 1:47-55 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
April McClure Stewart
Rest For The Weary -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
Making Mistakes -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and
The Rescuers -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 2004
"Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no
A Time To Weep -- Genesis 45:1-15 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2004
Christina Berry
Gram -- Matthew 1:18-25 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
William Bell
Thanksgiving -- Deuteronomy 8:7-18 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2004
For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land, a land with flowing streams, with springs
How Big Is He? -- Matthew 17:1-9 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2004
While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voic
A New Spiritual Birth -- John 3:1-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Jesus answered, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born o
Been Baptized -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were op
Help In The Name Of The Lord -- Psalm 124 -- Sandra Herrmann, John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2004
In 1972, I had the opportunity to go to the Soviet Union and get educational credit for the adventur
Together Again -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
Barbara Frank
Come, Thou Almighty King -- 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2004
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with
Rag Pickers Of Juarez -- John 4:5-42 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,'
If Not Higher -- Matthew 25:31-46 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2004
"And the king will answer them, 'Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of thes
Response -- Exodus 3:1-15 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2004
Marie Regine Redig
Kristina's Angel -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2004
Theresa Hammerquist
Identifying With Suffering -- Hebrews 2:10-18 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2004
For it is clear that he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham.
Daniel -- John 9:1-41 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on t
Breaking The Stone -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Easter Day - A -- 2004
After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary we
The Winds Of God -- Romans 13:8-14 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2004
Larry WinebrennerMy grandmother was an unforgiving woman.
Your Dad Likes You -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2004
Kathleen A. "Kit" Slawski
Welcome To The Family -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2004
He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure
God Is Our Security Guard -- Romans 8:6-11 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. (v.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

The Day Of Pentecost -- Romans 8:14-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Romans 8:14-17Theme: No Fear
Reformation Sunday -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Reformation Sunday - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 31:31-34Theme: The New In The Heart Of The Old
Second Sunday In Advent -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Second Sunday In AdventFor Luke 3:1-6
The Day Of Pentecost -- John 14:8-17 (25-27) -- Frank Ramirez -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 14:8-17 (25-27)Theme: ChooseCall To Worship
Reformation Sunday -- Romans 3:19-28 -- Frank Ramirez -- Reformation Sunday - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Romans 3:19-28Theme: Rock Solid And Sure
Third Sunday In Advent -- Zephaniah 3:14-20 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Third Sunday In AdventFor Zephaniah 3:14-20
Second Sunday Of Advent -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 3:1-6Theme: Get Ready For GodCall To Worship
Third Sunday Of Easter -- Revelation 5:11-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Revelation 5:11-14Theme: Now That's Entertainment
Call To Worship -- Matthew 11 -- 2006
Our Lord Jesus Christ said, "Come to me all ye who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you res
Ash Wednesday -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21Theme: No Peeking
Christmas Letters: Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Order of ServiceGathering MusicSinging Of Christmas Carols
Proper 24/Ordinary Time 29 -- Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 31:27-34Theme: No More Sour Grapes
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 60:1-6Theme: Witness To The Light
Proper 13/Ordinary Time 18 -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Colossians 3:1-11Theme: Reading Our Own Obituary
The Holy Trinity -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 -- Frank Ramirez -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31Theme: Roll Call
Reformation Sunday -- John 8:31-36 -- Frank Ramirez -- Reformation Sunday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 8:31-36Theme: Here's The Key -- Let Yourself Out
Third Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Third Sunday In AdventFor Isaiah 12:2-6
Third Sunday Of Advent -- Zephaniah 3:14-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Zephaniah 3:14-20Theme: Even So!
Third Sunday Of Easter -- John 21:1-19 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 21:1-19Theme: Love StoryCall To Worship
Call To Worship -- Philippians 1:18b-23 -- 2006
In his letter to the Philippian church, the Apostle Paul writes about his experience of being in pri
First Sunday In Lent -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Deuteronomy 26:1-11Theme: The Father We All Share
Proper 24/Ordinary Time 29 -- 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5Theme: The Other 3:16
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Ephesians 3:1-12Theme: Mystery Solved
Proper 13/Ordinary Time 18 -- Luke 12:13-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 12:13-21Theme: Wise FoolCall To Worship
The Holy Trinity -- Romans 5:1-5 -- Frank Ramirez -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Romans 5:1-5Theme: SST (Serious Spiritual Training)

Worship Service

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Easter 4
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New & Featured This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

David Kalas
In the sometimes-tiresome debate over science and scripture with respect to creation, it’s easy to become distracted. While the argument typically requires a focus on the how, we may lose sight of the what. And so, for just a moment, let me invite us to think for a moment about what God created.
Mark Ellingsen
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Acts 8:26-40
As a local church pastor, I was often asked if I would baptize a child whose family were not members of the church. Some churches rebelled against this, but I remember this scripture — the hunger for understanding and inclusion of the Eunuch and Philp’s response — to teach and share and baptize in the name of our God. How could we turn anyone away from the rite of baptism?

StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
“Dad, I think you worked a miracle.” Rolf slowly walked around the tree. “After that windstorm, I assumed this tree was as good as gone.”

“We just needed to give the branches time to heal and come back,” Michael replied.

 “I know, but so many of them were battered and broken I figured that it couldn’t recover. Now though it looks just like it did before the storm.” Rolf paused. “Do you think it will bear any fruit this summer?”

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A live plant that produces fruit, and a broken branch from that plant. I used a tomato plant from a local greenhouse. Ideally, find a plant with blossoms or small fruit already growing. If you use a different kind of fruit-producing plant, just change the script to fit.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent!

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Katy Stenta
Thomas Willadsen
Mary Austin
Elena Delhagen
Dean Feldmeyer
Quantisha Mason-Doll
For April 28, 2024:
  • On The Way To Gaza by Chris Keating based on Acts 8:26-40. On the way to Gaza, Philip discovers the startling ways the Spirit of God moves across borders, boundaries, customs, and traditions.
  • Second Thoughts: Abiding by Katy Stenta based on John 15:1-8.
  • Sermon illustrations by Mary Austin, Tom Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus is the vine, we are the branches. In our service today, let us absorb from the vine all the nourishment we need.

Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, sometimes our branches become cut off from the vine.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes our branches are withered.
Christ, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes we fail to produce good fruit.
Lord, have mercy.

SermonStudio

Stan Purdum
We will meet Psalm 22 in its entirety on Good Friday, but here the lectionary designates just verses 23-31. The lectionary psalms generally illuminate the week's First Lesson, which in this case is about the covenant initiated by God with Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 17. The nine verses from this psalm, while not inappropriate, nonetheless leave us looking for an obvious connection with the First Lesson.

John S. Smylie
I think some people are natural-born gardeners. Our Lord grew up in a society that was familiar with agriculture. The images that he used to explain the ways of his Father in heaven are familiar to his audience. Growing up, my closest experience to agriculture was living in, "the Garden State." Most people, when they pass through New Jersey, are surprised to see that expression on the license plates of vehicles registered in New Jersey. Most folks traveling through New Jersey experience the megalopolis, the corridor between New York City and Washington DC.
Ron Lavin
A pastor in Indiana went to visit an 87-year-old man named Ermil, who was a hospital patient. A member of his church told the pastor about this old man who was an acquaintance. "He's not a believer, but he is really in need," the church member said. "I met him at the county home for the elderly. He's a lonely old man with no family and no money."

Paul E. Robinson
"Love is a many splendored thing...." Or so we heard Don Cornwall and the Four Aces sing time and again. Of course you or I might have other words to describe love, depending on our situation.

Love. "I love you." "I love to play golf." "I just love pistachio lush!" "It's tough to love some people." "Jesus loves me, this I know."

Love.

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