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Fishers Of Men -- Matthew 4:19 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you children have ever been on a fishing trip?
Labor Day -- Proverbs 14:23 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. This is Labor Day Weekend in America.
The Shepherd Cares For His Sheep -- Isaiah 40:11 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
Back To School -- Proverbs 22:6 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Raise hands, all of you who can't wait to get back to school!
Christ Comes Into Our Hearts -- 1 Samuel 16:7, 1 Chronicles 28:9, Matthew 5:8 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. (Show heart symbol.) What is this symbol?
The Name Jesus -- Job: 1:21, Matthew 1:21 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you know how you got your name?
Baptism/Dedication -- Proverbs 22:6, Mark 10:14 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
The Drawing Power Of Christ -- John 12:32 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have ever experimented with a magnet?
New Year -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. I have a very special (watch or clock) with me today.
Jonah's Disobedience And Restoration -- Jonah 1:17 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have ever seen a whale?
Saint Valentine, Bishop Of Love -- 1 Chronicles 28:9 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you know what a tradition is?
Worldwide Christian Fellowship -- Proverbs 14:34, Matthew 28:19 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
Saint Patrick, Missionary -- Matthew 28:19 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Today I want to tell you an adventure story!
Thinking About The Cross -- Matthew 10:38, Luke 9:23 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
Triumphal Entry -- Matthew 21:9, Luke 19:28-40 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. I love a parade! Don't you?
He Is ALIVE! -- Matthew 28:1-8, Luke 24:1-12 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
He is alive! He is alive! He is alive!
Forgiveness Of Sins -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, 1 John 1:7 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Ever make a mistake? I've made a great many in my lifetime.
Careful With Those Lips -- Isaiah 6:5 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
The Shepherd King -- Psalm 23 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
Jesus And The Ten Commandments -- Exodus 20:1-18 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
Her Children Bless Her -- Exodus 20:12, Proverbs 31:28 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Today is a special day, isn't it?
Our Days Are In His Hands -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-10 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Happy New Year! That's an appropriate greeting for this time of year, isn't it, boys and girls?
The Golden Rule -- Matthew 7:12, Galatians 6:7 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you recognize what I have with me today?
Birthday Of The Church -- Acts 2:1-4 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. Does anyone here have a birthday this week (this month)?
The Value Of A Smile -- Proverbs 16:20 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.

Christian

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Devotional

SermonStudio

Out Of The Depths, I Cry To You, O LORD -- Psalm 130 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope ...
Give Ear, O My People, To My Teaching -- Psalm 78 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
He established a decree in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel,
Christmas 1 -- Matthew 2:13-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2007
...
Lent 1 -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Yet death exercised dominion from Adam to Moses, even for those whose sins were not like the tran
God Is Our Refuge And Strength -- Psalm 46 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Proper 25 / Pentecost 23 / OT 30 -- Matthew 22:34-46 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2007
On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.-- Matthew 22:40
Proper 17 / Pentecost 15 / OT 22 -- Matthew 16:21-28 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2007
For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life?
The Holy Trinity -- 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2007
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with
The LORD Says To My Lord -- Psalm 110 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The LORD says to my lord, "Sit at my right hand
The LORD Is My Light And And My Salvation -- Psalm 27 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
One thing I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after:
Epiphany 6 / OT 6 -- Matthew 5:21-37 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2007
So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has
Proper 10 / Pentecost 8 / OT 15 -- Genesis 25:19-34 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
Isaac loved Esau, because he was fond of his game; but Rebekah loved Jacob.
Easter 3 -- 1 Peter 1:17-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mut
O LORD, My Heart Is Not Lifted Up -- Psalm 131 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O LORD, my heart is not lifted up ... I do not occupy myself with things
O God, The Nations Have Come Into Your Inheritance -- Psalm 79 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O God, the nations have come into your inheritance,
Christmas 2 -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
... for I have become a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn....
Lent 1 -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
Clap Your Hands, All You Peoples -- Psalm 47 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with loud songs of joy.
Proper 26 / Pentecost 24 / OT 31 -- Joshua 3:7-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
When the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of the Lord, the Lord of all the earth
Proper 18 / Pentecost 16 / OT 23 -- Exodus 12:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2007
...
The Holy Trinity -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2007
And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.-- Matthew 28:20
Praise The LORD! I Will Give Thanks With My Whole Heart -- Psalm 111 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Praise the LORD! I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart,
To You, O LORD, I Call -- Psalm 28 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Do not drag me away with the wicked ... they do not regard the works of the LORD,
Epiphany 7 / OT 7 -- Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2007
... You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.-- Leviticus 19:2
Ascribe To The LORD, O Heavenly Beings -- Psalm 29 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength ... worship the LORD in holy splendor ...

Drama

SermonStudio

In My Father's House -- John 14:1-14 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1998
Theme
A Monologue of "Rocky" Barjona -- Mark 8:27-35 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
Many Are Called -- Matthew 22:1-14 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 1998
ThemeHow does God feel about those who reject His Son?Summary
Creation -- Psalm 148 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1998
Theme The majesty of God's creation.Summary
Satan Goes to Church -- Job 1:1, Job 2:1-10 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
God And The State -- Matthew 22:15-22 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 1998
ThemeHow do Christians ethically relate to their government?Summary
Everyman And Woman -- John 17:1-11 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 1998
Theme
Gabriel: I Was There -- Luke 1:13-19, 26-35 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
David The Giant Killer -- Matthew 22:34-46 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 1998
ThemeKing David, the ancestor of the Messiah, Jesus, trusted God. Can we?
The Last Wise Man -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 1998
Theme
The Race -- Luke 6:17-26 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 1997
Theme
Who's Your Neighbor -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 1997
ThemeBeing of service to others no matter who they are.Summary
Perseverance -- Luke 21:5-19 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 1997
ThemePersecution will come. How will we fare? With faith?Summary
Talk Show I -- Luke 10:38-42 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 1997
Theme
The Thieves -- Luke 23:35-43 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 1997
ThemeJesus, by his death on a cross, changes lives, no matter how bad.
Good Neighbors -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 1997
Theme
Charade Parables -- Luke 6:39-49 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 1997
ThemeJesus' Parables can speak to us -- even though we mess things up.
The Rich Fool -- Luke 12:13-21 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1997
Theme
The Mystery -- Luke 7:1-10 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 1997
Theme Where does the faith for healing originate?Summary
Song by Becky Potter -- Luke 12:32-40 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 1997
ThemeThe Son of Man is coming like the flood. Be ready as Noah was.
The Widow Of Nain -- Luke 7:11-17 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 1997
ThemeDeath is conquered by Jesus.Summary
This Present Time -- Luke 12:49-56 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 1997
Theme
Unforgiveness -- Luke 7:36-50 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 1997
ThemeForgiveness is necessary for relationships.Summary
Super Christian III -- Luke 13:22-30 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 1997
Theme
The Ark -- Found -- Luke 9:18-24 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 1997
Theme

Easter

Faith Development

Fellowship

Funeral

Gathering Prayer

Healing

Home Blessing

Humor

Illustration

Inspirational

Intercession

Lent/Easter

Liturgy

Marriage Ceremony

Meditations

Memorial

Men's Day

Monologues

Mother's Day

Observance

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Pastoral Resources

Poems

Prayer

Preaching

SermonStudio

Easter 6 -- Psalm 98 -- Stan Purdum -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
(See Christmas Day, Cycles A and B, for alternative approaches.)
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- Exodus 34:29-35, 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Carlos Wilton -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Those who have encountered God are a beacon to others.
For Those Of Uncertain Faith/Expansive Promise Of God -- Isaiah 43:6-13 -- 2006
I will say to the north, "Give them up!" and to the south, "Do not hold them back." Bring my sons
Proper 16/Pentecost 14/Ordinary Time 21 -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Hebrews 12:18-29, Luke 13:10-17 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Jesus Is Calling -- Revelation 22:8-21 -- 2006
I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things.
Proper 23/Pentecost 21/Ordinary Time 28 -- Psalm 22:1-15 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2006
(See Good Friday, Cycle A; Good Friday, Cycle B; and Lent 2, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.
Proper 14 / Ordinary Time 19 -- Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2006
(See Proper 12/Pentecost 10/Ordinary Time 17, Cycle A, for an alternative approach to 105:1-11, 4
Advent 4 -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2006
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative app
Epiphany 6/Ordinary Time 6 -- Psalm 1 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
(See Proper 20/Pentecost 18/Ordinary Time 25, Cycle B for an alternative approach.)
Christmas 2 -- Psalm 147:12-20 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2006
This psalm was likely written for the people of Jerusalem after their return from exile (see vv.
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2006
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycles B and C, for alternative approaches.)
The Resurrection! -- John 20:1-18 -- 2006
Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and
Proper 14/Pentecost 12/Ordinary Time 19 -- Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2006
(For an alternative approach to vv.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Psalm 47 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2006
Both Psalms 47 and 93 (the alternative psalm for this day) are enthronement psalms, praise hymns cel
For One Who Longed To Know God -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- 2006
"The time is coming," declares the Lord, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israe
Proper 17/Pentecost 15/Ordinary Time 22 -- Jeremiah 2:4-13, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2006
Theme For The DayOur faith calls us to offer hospitality to others.
Ash Wednesday -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Carlos Wilton -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Ash Wednesday is a time for having a good cry.
Proper 24/Pentecost 22/Ordinary Time 29 -- Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- James Evans -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2006
Psalm 104 begins and ends with a unique call to praise.
Psalm 133 - Proper 15 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Psalm 133 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2006
This little gem of a psalm celebrates the joy of unity among comrades in the faith.
Christmas Eve -- Psalm 96 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Christmas Eve, Cycle B, for an alternative app
Epiphany 7/Ordinary 7 -- Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
Some years back, there was a best-selling book that got a lot of attention in the church, one writte
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see also The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle A, for an
Easter 5 -- Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stan Purdum -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2006
(See Liturgy Of The Passion, Cycle A, Cycle B, and Cycle C, for alternative approaches to vv.
Pronounced Innocent And Made Whole -- Romans 5:6-11 -- 2006
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20 -- Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2006
(See Advent 4, Cycle A, and Advent 1, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.)

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

It Is Finished -- John 19:30 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished." Then he bowed his head and gave up h
Flesh And Spirit -- Romans 8:12-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2008
Chapters 7-8 of Romans are among the most important words in the Bible for us in the twenty-first ce
Fred And Barney -- John 10:11-18 -- John S. Smylie -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
I grew up in the suburbs, in a community outside of lower Manhattan.
But Is It True? -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Scott Suskovic -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Chr
The Place Beyond Punishment -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2008
You can tell a lot about a family by finding out what happens if a child spills something.
Little Lord Jesus -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-20 -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- 2008
"Take me to your leader" -- it's the famous cliché of bad science-fiction movies.
Ascension Answers -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Ken Lentz -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2008
Many folks, especially preachers, don't know what to make of Luke's accounts (Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:
Destruction Instruction -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Steven Molin -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2008
Note: As I type these words, I am sitting at a coffee shop just outside the Twin Cities of Mi
The Final Word -- Luke 23:44-49 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while
Bothered And Bewildered -- 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2008
Whatever one wants to say about the apostle Paul, we must at least say this: He took Christianity ou
Jesus Brings New Life -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
The end of World War II and the onset of the Cold War, which saw the super powers of the United Stat
Weed And Feed -- John 15:1-8 -- John S. Smylie -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
I think some people are natural-born gardeners.
The Missing Piece -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Scott Suskovic -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2008
He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself
Having A Good Name -- Proverbs 1:20-33 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2008
Proverbs is right: Having a good name is a terribly important thing.
The Glory Of Flesh And Blood -- Luke 2:1-20, John 1:1-14 -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- 2008
A few springs ago, I installed a small pond in the side yard of our home.
Be An Apostle! Proclaim Life! -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 -- Ken Lentz -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Three young lads once rescued a famous politician from drowning.
King Me! -- John 18:33-37 -- Steven Molin -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2008
Several years ago, and in another congregation, I preached a sermon titled "Chutes and Ladders and t
Eyes On The Prize -- 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1 -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
"I believed, and I spoke." Paul begins this passage with a reference to the Septuagint, the Greek tr
Jesus Will Lead Us Home -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
The voyage of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his 28 men aboard the Endurance bound for Antarctica,
The Little Golf Club -- John 15:9-17 -- John S. Smylie -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Our Lord's new commandment, to love one another as he has loved us, is easier said than done.
The Fullness Of Time -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- Scott Suskovic -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in
Finding The Good Woman In Us All -- Proverbs 31:10-31 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2008
A good woman is a superwoman, or so it appears to me as I read the list of things she can do.
No More Senseless Journeys -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- 2008
Because Jesus was Mary's firstborn, there were four words that she and Joseph did not have to hear a
What A Way To Start A Church! -- Acts 2:1-21 -- William J. Carl, III -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2008
What a way to start a church! It's certainly not the typical format for new church development.
Oh, The Things We Worry About! -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Steven Molin -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2008
I extend to you and your families a joyous and blessed Thanksgiving.

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

A Christmas Story From Cambodia -- Titus 2:11-14 -- John E. Sumwalt, Patricia Lyon -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2003
I wondered if the village folk ever had potlucks like the Methodists back home.
Recovered Memory -- Isaiah 43:16-21 -- John E. Sumwalt, Bruce Stunkard -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2003
I was a male glossophobiac. An avoider of spotlights. Stage frightened.
Remember Your Baptism -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- John E. Sumwalt, Theonia Amenda -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2003
It was 1984. I was sitting in the front row in a classroom in Nashville, listening to Dr.
Sex Is A Turnoff -- Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2003
You've seen the ads.
Where's Jesus? -- Luke 24:1-12 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Easter Day - C -- 2003
I have a hobby that some people might think odd, if not perverse.
An Unlikely Angel -- Luke 2:1-20 -- John E. Sumwalt, David Michael Smith -- 2003
He staggered in fifteen minutes after the traditional holiday hymn sing had begun, plopping with a t
Maundy Thursday Visions -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lisa Lancaster -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
In 1985, I was struggling deeply with a very painful friendship.
Visions Of Christ -- Colossians 1:11-20 -- John E. Sumwalt, Linda Nafziger-meiser -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2003
In 1982-86, my husband and I lived in the Shenandoah Valley near Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Lopsided Clay -- Jeremiah 18:1-11 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2003
My wife is a potter. She has a wheel in the sun room and a kiln in the garage.
The First Jesus Seminar -- John 20:19-31 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
No biblical character has suffered as much exegetical and theological abuse as Thomas.
He Will Wipe Away Every Tear -- Revelation 21:1-6a -- John E. Sumwalt, Rosmarie Trapp -- New Year's Day - C -- 2003
In 1987, I came to Stowe, Vermont, for a visit with my mother, Maria Von Trapp.
Chosen As Witnesses -- Acts 10:34-43 -- John E. Sumwalt, Theonia Amenda -- Easter Day - C -- 2003
Our first grandchild died two months shy of his fourth birthday.
The Parable Of The Lost Dog -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2003
Like most of the general population, I lose things all the time.
A Shop That Specializes In Conversions -- Acts 9:1-6 (7-20) -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
Have you converted anything lately?We do it all the time.
A Single Drop Of Blood -- Luke 22:14--23:56 -- John E. Sumwalt, Wayne Frank -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2003
I was first elected as an Alderman on Milwaukee's south side after a special election in 1973.
Holy Coincidences -- John 20:19-31 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lee Domann -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
My mother's only brother died in March, 1983, in a car/train accident. I was devastated.
Prayer Meeting On The First Tee -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2003
I attend a small country church where I volunteer my time to preach and plan worship.
Freeze-dried Or On Ice? -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
Slugger Ted Williams, "the greatest hitter in the world," the last player to hit over .400 for a sea
A Day Of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21 -- John E. Sumwalt, Ellen Sherry -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2003
I was raised in the Congregational Church.
The Other End Of The Barrel -- Acts 9:1-20 -- John E. Sumwalt, Shirley Lochowitz -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
Seven years ago, I was working as a police officer for the Town of Caledonia Police Department.
Body Building -- 1 Timothy 6:6-19 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2003
The psalmist David seems to have it right when he muses, "It was you who formed my inward parts ...
The Ketchup Church -- Acts 11:1-18 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
My parents didn't put up with a lot of foolishness.
Steadfast Love -- Psalm 85 -- John E. Sumwalt, Christal Bindrich -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2003
My brother died on March 15, 2001, at the age of 56.
Life-giving Plasma -- Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt, Harold Weaver -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
In August of 1966, I visited Germany.
Lipstick Pistols -- 2 Timothy 1:1-14 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2003
"We do disagreeable things," wrote novelist John le Carré in The Spy Who Came in From the Cold, "so

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

Proper 7/Ordinary Time 12 -- Luke 8:26-39 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 8:26-39Theme: Legionnaires
Christmas Day -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12) -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Christmas DayFor Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12)
First Sunday After Christmas -- Luke 2:41-52 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 2:41-52Theme: Talk To Me, Not Through Me
Seventh Sunday Of Easter -- Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21Theme: A Promise Is A Promise
Responsive Reading -- Matthew 18:3-5, 10 -- Gail Gaymer Martin, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
Leader: Jesus loved the little children. Jesus loves us. He willingly gave his life for us.
Fifth Sunday In Lent -- John 12:1-8 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 12:1-8Theme: No Pleasing Some People
Christ The King (Proper 29/Ordinary Time 34) -- Jeremiah 23:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 23:1-6Theme: Raise Up A Shepherd
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13) -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13)Theme: There Must Be Some Mistake
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11Theme: I Will Explain It Slowly
Proper 18/Ordinary Time 23 -- Luke 14:25-33 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 14:25-33Theme: Hiring The Right Architect
Proper 8/Ordinary Time 13 -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14Theme: Take Up The Mantle
Remembering The Deceased -- 2006
There are many ways for us to remember the deceased at the funeral home, the church, and during the
Sunday Of The Passion/Palm Sunday -- Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Frank Ramirez -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 50:4-9aTheme: Count Well The Cost
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 5:1-11Theme: Big Fish, Big Pond
Proper 19/Ordinary Time 24 -- Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28Theme: Disaster!
Proper 8/Ordinary Time 13 -- Galatians 5:1, 13-25 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Galatians 5:1, 13-25
The Graveside Committal -- 2006
Graveside committal services are kept very short in my tradition.
Sunday Of The Passion/Palm Sunday -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Philippians 2:5-11Theme: Empty The Cup
Sixth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 17:5-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 17:5-10Theme: Heavenly Horticulture
Proper 19/Ordinary Time 24 -- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Timothy 1:12-17Theme: Immortal, Invisible
Proper 8/Ordinary Time 13 -- Luke 9:51-62 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 9:51-62Theme: Single Minded, Single Purpose
Music For The Service -- 2006
Music has tremendous power to touch human hearts and minds, and therefore, it is a very useful tool
Sunday Of The Passion/Palm Sunday -- Luke 23:1-49 -- Frank Ramirez -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 23:1-49 Theme: No. On.
Sixth Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:12-20
Proper 19/Ordinary Time 24 -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 15:1-10Theme: Looking To Find

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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?”

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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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