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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.
Wings -- Luke 17:20-21 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Without a doubt, Julia was a caterpillar!
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
Crumbs -- Matthew 15:26-27 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
This is a difficult text even for adults.
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
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
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
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
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.
Strength In Meekness -- Matthew 5:5 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"We have been talking about the Beatitudes the last few weeks.
Masks -- 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"Good morning, children! Some of you are laughing. Why is that?"
Alone -- Matthew 28:19-20 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"I've brought a big book with me today.
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.
"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.
Cows In Church -- Luke 2:7 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"We have some competition for our space on the chancel steps this morning.
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
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
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
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.
Rainbows -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
"This morning I need all of you to help me understand a verse of scripture.
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.

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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;
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 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!
Transgression Speaks To The Wicked -- Psalm 36 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in their hearts;
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 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
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
I Love You, O LORD -- Psalm 18 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
In my distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I cried for help ...
The Holy Trinity -- Genesis 1:1--2:4a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2007
See, I have given you every plant yielding seed ... you shall have them for food.
Advent 4 -- Romans 1:1-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I Will Sing Of Loyalty And Of Justice -- Psalm 101 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I will study the way that is blameless. When shall I attain it? ...
Easter Day -- Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
The Lord has punished me severely, but he did not give me over to death.
Proper 23 / Pentecost 21 / OT 28 -- Philippians 4:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
Rejoice in the Lord always ... Let your gentleness be known to everyone....
Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / OT 33 -- Psalm 123 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of he
Save Me, O God, For The Waters Have Come Up To My Neck -- Psalm 69 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold ...
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 15 / Pentecost 13 / OT 20 -- Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2007
... the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.-- Romans 11:29
Do Not Fret Because Of The Wicked -- Psalm 37 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Do not fret because of the wicked; do not be envious of wrongdoers,
I Lift Up My Eyes To The Hills -- Psalm 121 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / OT 11 -- Matthew 10:24-39 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
...
Epiphany 4 / OT 4 -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling blo
Epiphany 4 / OT 4 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying....-- Matthew 5:2
The Heavens Are Telling The Glory Of God -- Psalm 19 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The heavens are telling the glory of God;
Proper 5 / Pentecost 3 / OT 10 -- Genesis 12:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2007
... and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.-- Genesis 12:3
Advent 4 -- Matthew 1:18-25 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - 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

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SermonStudio

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:
A different kind of King -- John 18:33-37 -- Dennis Koch -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: The conversation about kingship between Pilate and Jesus
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
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
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
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
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 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
News too good to keep -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Dennis Koch -- 1993
Gospel Note: The shepherds, having heard the angelic message, go to
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
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

In The Fullness Of Time -- Ephesians 1:5-10 -- 2006
He predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure
Advent 1 -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
(See Lent 1, Cycle B, for an alternative approach.)
Proper 28/Pentecost 26/Ordinary Time 33 -- Psalm 123 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2006
This short psalm is a communal lament, pleading as a nation for God's mercy, though in what particul
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.)
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
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
Palm Sunday/Sunday Of The Passion -- Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- 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
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
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 8 / Pentecost 6 / Ordinary Time 13 -- Psalm 130 -- Stan Purdum -- 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.
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.)
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
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 12:2-6 -- James Evans -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
(See Proper 28/Pentecost 26/Ordinary Time 33, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
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.)
The Humble Exalted -- 2006
And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has be
Second Sunday After Christmas -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Jesus Christ is God's autobiography.
Palm Sunday/Sunday Of The Passion -- Psalm 31:9-16 -- James Evans -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Liturgy Of The Passion, Cycles A and B for alt
Lent 1 -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2006
(See Advent 1, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
Epiphany 8/Ordinary Time 8 -- Psalm 131 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 2006
From the early sixteenth- to the mid-nineteenth centuries, one of the most popular forms of painting
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

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Forecast -- Luke 21:5-19 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2009
When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedi
Dealing With Our Fears -- John 6:1-21 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, also called the Sea of Tiberias.
Formula For Eternal Life -- 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2009
George lives in Fort Portal, a town on the western front of Uganda, some fifty miles from the Congo.
Simple Enough? -- John 13:31-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
In the fall of 1862, the United States was reeling from one defeat after another at the hands of the
Making Something Out Of Nothing -- Haggai 1:15b--2:9 -- R. Kevin Mohr -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2009
Making something out of nothing. We often use that phrase in a negative sense.
Risk Takers -- Luke 6:17-26 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2009
"Louise, can you and Pastor Hal come to Thanksgiving dinner at our house this Friday?
Slaves Set Free -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- David H. Webb -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2009
It is believed that the Passover was first celebrated on the very night that Israel was set free fro
The Good Works We Leave Behind -- Acts 9:36-43 -- David Kalas -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
It's a poignant scene: the gathering place of mourners.
What Does The Bible Say About Materialism? -- Matthew 6:19-33 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves
The Assurance Of Things Hoped For -- Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2009
In the movie, Cast Away, Tom Hanks' character, Chuck, is stranded on a desert island in the P
Knowing Who's In Charge -- Luke 23:33-43 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2009
When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the crimina
Bread Of Life -- John 6:24-35 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
Do not spend your whole life working for, striving for, dreaming about food that will perish, but
Christ: The Victor Over Death -- 1 Corinthians 15:51-58 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2009
In many ways, Nicholas Green was an ordinary seven-year-old boy, but he became a source of life for
Advocate And Redeemer -- John 14:23-29 -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Imagine the wind rushing through an open door while the roar of the propeller in an aging old Ford T
A New Beginning -- Isaiah 65:17-25 -- R. Kevin Mohr -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2009
I am a lousy typist. My keyboard skills are rudimentary and functional, at best.
Forgive As You Have Been Forgiven -- Luke 6:27-38 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2009
She stood peeking out from behind the curtains.
God's Incredible Gift -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12 -- David H. Webb -- Good Friday - B -- 2009
The servant song in our Old Testament lesson from Isaiah has been the traditional Old Testament read
Look Who's Talking -- Acts 11:1-18 -- David Kalas -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Professional sports has no statistic for measuring talking.
Television: The Plug-In Drug -- Matthew 6:22-23 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
The eye is the lamp of the body.
Running With Perseverance -- Hebrews 11:29--12:2 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2009
United Methodist Bishop, Robert Schnase, tells of his hobby as a "serious runner." He reports that p
Not Just Being Polite -- John 6:25-35 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2009
When they found him on the other side of the lake, they said to him, "Rabbi, when did you come he
Namibia -- Matthew 16:13-20 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2009
Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do peopl
Don't Compromise Your Beliefs -- Galatians 1:1-12 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- 2009
William Jennings Bryan was truly a man who answered the call.
The End Of The Beginning -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
Three decades ago my nephew, Nathaniel, was a toddler when he discovered the full moon for the first
Transformed To Christ -- 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2009
One magnificent, moonlit night, a fisherman climbed the wall of a private estate to partake in the b

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.
Simpson -- John 18:1-19:42 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Good Friday - A -- 2004
Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged.
Right Here In My Church -- Luke 1:47-55 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
April McClure Stewart
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
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
A Time To Weep -- Genesis 45:1-15 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2004
Christina Berry
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
Gram -- Matthew 1:18-25 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2004
William Bell
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
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
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
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
Together Again -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
Barbara Frank
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
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
Response -- Exodus 3:1-15 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2004
Marie Regine Redig
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,'
Kristina's Angel -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2004
Theresa Hammerquist
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
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.
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.
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
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
Out Of Africa -- 1 Peter 1:3-9 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2004
In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so tha
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

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

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Call To Worship -- John 11 -- 2006
"I am the resurrection and the life," said Jesus to his friend, Martha, whose brother had died.
Third Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 9:1-6 (7-20) -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 9:1-6 (7-20)Theme: Real Change In Real People
Proper 23/Ordinary Time 28 -- Luke 17:11-19 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 17:11-19Theme: Good Odds Or Bad Odds
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
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
Christmas Letters: Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Order of ServiceGathering MusicSinging Of Christmas Carols
Ash Wednesday -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21Theme: No Peeking
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 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
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
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
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
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
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 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 Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Ephesians 3:1-12Theme: Mystery Solved
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!
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
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 9:36-43 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 9:36-43Theme: What We Really Miss

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Advent 3
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Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sandra Herrmann
Merry Christmas! The midwinter festival has come, and it calls for parties, feasting and drinking and dancing and the exchange of gifts. Like all people in the northern hemisphere, we need light in the dark days of winter. The only problem with all of this is that the pressure to be joyful can send us spiraling in the exact opposite of mind sets.
Christmas shops are not just for Christmas anymore. These stores that specialize in everything yuletide-ish do business year round and can be found everywhere. I have seen them in an outlet mall near Washington, D.C., nestled in a small village in the mountains of North Carolina and adorning the white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus is born! A bright light has come into our world, so let us thank and praise God for his gift to us of Jesus, the Messiah.

Invitation to Confession:

 Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, make us worthy to worship at your crib.

Lord, have mercy.

 Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, may we remember you in today's excitement.

Christ, have mercy.

 Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, be born in our hearts today.

Lord, have mercy

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
A Story to Live By: "
Christmas Stories: "Christmas Presence" by Janice Hammerquist
"Silver In His Soul"
"www.ChristmasHouse" by John Sumwalt
Scrap Pile: Great Prayer of Thanksgiving for Christmas Eve by Thom M. Shuman


What's Up on Christmas Eve

Lamar Massingill
John E. Sumwalt
Contents
"Taking His Joy unto Ourselves" by Lamar Massingill
"God Acted that We Might Act" by Lamar Massingill
"The Hopes and Fears of All the Years" by John Sumwalt
"God with Us" by Peter Andrew Smith


* * * * * * * *


Taking His Joy unto Ourselves
Lamar Massingill
Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)

Christmas would be incomplete without recognizing Incarnate Love's first fruit, which is joy. Johann Sebastian Bach recognized it when he, as an act of worship, composed "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring."

SermonStudio

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 9:2--7 (C, RC); Isaiah 9:2--4, 6--7 (E)
Mark Wm. Radecke
Year after year, we are drawn to this night: This night with its carols, its candlelight, its communion, and the combined fragrance of pine, poinsettia and perfume. (Is that Passion or Poison you're wearing? Or maybe it's Polo!) The gentle poetry of Luke's story draws us, too.

Why is it that we are so drawn to this night, I wonder? There are, I suppose, as many answers as there are people in this room.
Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
It's not an easy life, I'll tell you that. I work my small farm during the day, but that doesn't bring in enough money. I have a family to support, taxes to pay -- oy, don't get me started on taxes -- so I need more than my farm brings in. I do the only other thing I know how to do. I hire myself out for the night shift watching other people's sheep. Tending sheep would not be my first choice, you understand. First, I have to stay awake all night. Then, there's counting the sheep to make sure one or two haven't wandered off. Thieves are always a problem.
Timothy J. Smith
There is a special feeling from being in church on Christmas Eve. For many of us it feels like coming home for Christmas. We come to hear the familiar story of Mary and Joseph making their way to the little town of Bethlehem. We hear once again of Baby Jesus born in stable. Soon after an unexpected encounter with angels, the shepherds head to the manger to see Jesus for themselves. Children have creatively acted out this story for generations complete with the wise men offering their gifts. Living Nativities complete with live animals are portrayed in church parking lots in many communities.
Frank Luchsinger
"The grace of God has appeared ... training us ... to await our blessed hope" (Titus 2:11-13), and oh, how we have waited! The air is filled with anticipation, the Holy Night has come. We each wait for different things: the lighting of candles, the singing of carols, loved ones returning home, feasting, and forgetting ferment, for the Prince of Peace is coming. We wait for delight in the eyes of someone we love as he or she opens that special gift. We wait in awe in the hope that one star's strong light lingers still and will lead us home to him who redeems us.
John B. Jamison
He stood on the steps and waved. He nodded to those cheering to him from below, and took a deep breath as if to soak up their praise.
Susan R. Andrews
At the risk of putting you to sleep, I'd like to ask each one of you to close your eyes. Right now, for just a minute. Please close your eyes. And now imagine with me. Imagine that you are holding a newborn baby. Imagine how this baby feels - skin touching skin, curves touching curves - harmonious heartbeats as life surges between you. Imagine the smell - the earthy sweetness of breath and body perfuming the air. Imagine the sound - the silent melody of sighing, stretching, settling. Right now, for just a minute, let your imagination go. Feel the baby. Smell the baby. Hear the baby.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Gathering
P: Born into this world,
C: born into our lives,
P: God made flesh.
C: O Emmanuel, we praise you now and forever. Amen.

Hymn Of Praise
O Come, All Ye Faithful or Jesus, What A Wonderful Child

Gospel Procession
Have the children (dressed as Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds) process and then read the gospel from the center of the congregation.

Intercessory Prayers
After each petition:
L: O God of love,
C: be born in us today.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Sing A New Song To The Lord (PH216)
Angels From The Realms Of Glory (UM220, PH22, NCH126)
Born In The Night (PH30, NCH152)
Once In Royal David's City (PH49, UM250, NCH145)
The First Nowell (PH56, UM245, CBH199, NCH139)
On This Day Earth Shall Ring (UM248, PH46, CBH192)
What Child Is This? (UM219, PH53, CBH215, NCH148)
Silent Night (PH60, UM229, CBH193, PH134)
The Friendly Beasts (UM227, NCH138)
That Boy--Child Of Mary (PH55, UM241)
Frank Ramirez
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 9:2-7)

One: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light -

All: Those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shone.

Women: You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.

Men: For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders -

CSSPlus

Merry Christmas, boys and girls. (Show one of your signs). Do any of you know what this sign means? (Let them answer.) That's right, it means (provide answer). (Show another sign and ask what it means. Let them answer.) Very good. Signs are very important aren't they? They give us direction. They tell us what to do and what not to do. The Bible gives many signs also.

You all know the story about the shepherds on Christmas Eve. The shepherds were in the field watching their sheep. Suddenly an angel appeared to them. The Bible says that the shepherds
Leah Thompson
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all… (v. 11)

Good morning, boys and girls! How are you today? (allow answers) Who can tell me what today is? (allow answers) That's right -- it's finally here! Today is Christmas [Eve]! We have spent the whole season of Advent preparing for right now. The long preparation is finally over. Christmas is here!

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