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Children's sermon

SermonStudio

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.
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.
Turning Around -- Mark 1:14-20 -- B. Kathleen Fannin -- 1999
As the children gather on the chancel steps, they sit down as usual.

Christian

Christian Faith

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Devotional

SermonStudio

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!
Make A Joyful Noise To The LORD -- Psalm 100 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Worship the LORD with gladness; come into his presence with singing ...
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
Hear A Just Cause, O LORD -- Psalm 17 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Wondrously show your steadfast love, O Savior of those who seek refuge
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.
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.
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,
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
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.
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 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
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? ...
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / OT 11 -- Matthew 10:24-39 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
...
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 ...
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
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 ...
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 -- Matthew 1:18-25 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
...
O LORD, Do Not Rebuke Me In Your Anger -- Psalm 38 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger, or discipline me in your wrath ...
Easter Day -- Colossians 3:1-4 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Easter Day - A -- 2007
Set your minds on things that are above....-- Colossians 3:2
Proper 23 / Pentecost 21 / OT 28 -- Matthew 22:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
Then he said to his slaves, "The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy."

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:
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
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
Lust -- Mark 9:14-29 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1999
Theme
Transfigu-what? -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1999
ThemeHow does the transfiguration of Jesus affect us?Summary
The Meeting -- Luke 1:26-56 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1999
ThemeGreat faith encourages the worship of God.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
The Remote Revisited -- John 3:1-16 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1999
Theme
Jesus' Visit -- John 20:19-31 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Theme
Greatness -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 1999
Theme
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
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
Hell! -- Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1999
Theme
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
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.

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

Pageant

Pastoral Resources

Poems

Prayer

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
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
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
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
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

On Being Ready -- Matthew 24:36-44 -- 2006
"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Fa
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 4/Pentecost 2/Ordinary Time 9 -- 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39, Galatians 1:1-12, Luke 7:1-10 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day True faith always finds itself in conflict with falsehood.
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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.)
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 Reconciliation That Leads To Peace -- Colossians 1:15-20 -- 2006
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.
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
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
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.

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
Amazing Faith -- Luke 7:1-10 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2009
Twice in Jesus' ministry, Jesus is flabbergasted.
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.
Enemies Of The Cross -- Philippians 3:17--4:1 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Whenever I lead an inquiry class for those who want to learn more about my congregation and the fait
Poverty Of Spirit -- Matthew 5:3 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
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.
Door Number One Or Door Number Two? -- Matthew 7:13-14 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Enter by the narrow gate.
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
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
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
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.
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 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 --
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 Beautiful Attitude Of Humility -- Matthew 5:5 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.-- Matthew 5:5
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.
Guarding The Treasure -- 2 Timothy 1:1-14 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2009
Most of us have a long list of passwords, PINs, and usernames to type into our cell phones, our comp
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
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.
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

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Simpson -- John 18:1-19:42 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Good Friday - A -- 2004
Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged.
We Have The Majority -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2004
God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right
Angels In Haunted Places -- Matthew 14:22-33 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2004
Richard H. Gentzler, Jr.
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
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
Together Again -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
Barbara Frank
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
Kristina's Angel -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2004
Theresa Hammerquist
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
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
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
Louise -- Exodus 14:19-30, Exodus 15:1b-11, 20-21 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2004
Louise
An Overpowering Light -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2004
Karen Steineke

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

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Women's Day

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SermonStudio

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
Call To Worship -- John 11 -- 2006
"I am the resurrection and the life," said Jesus to his friend, Martha, whose brother had died.
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Order of ServiceGathering Music
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
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
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
Third Sunday In Advent -- Zephaniah 3:14-20 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Third Sunday In AdventFor Zephaniah 3:14-20
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
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
Christmas Letters: Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Order of ServiceGathering MusicSinging Of Christmas Carols
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
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
Third Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Third Sunday In AdventFor Isaiah 12:2-6
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
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
Third Sunday Of Advent -- Philippians 4:4-7 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Philippians 4:4-7Theme: Say It Again!

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The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
Elena Delhagen
Quantisha Mason-Doll
For May 12, 2024:
Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
Elena Delhagen
Quantisha Mason-Doll
For May 12, 2024:

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John Jamison
Object: A sheet large enough for your children to stand around it. A dozen or so golf balls, or other small unbreakable balls. If you have a large number of children you could use two sheets to make room, or just ask for volunteers to play the game.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent! But we’re not starting with the story today. I have something else I would like you to try. (Lay the sheet on the floor and put the balls in the middle of it.)
John Jamison
Object: A piece of clothing that a superhero might wear. I used a simple cape made from a sheet, but you could also use a belt, a ring, or anything else your favorite superhero might wear.

* * *

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Over the Christmas season, I saw a picture of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes with his wife Brittany and their two young children. Like many people, the Mahomes’ took their kids to see Santa Claus. Patrick, Brittany, and Santa are all smiles, however, two-year-old daughter Sterling and one-year-old Bronze looked just like thousands of other kids, scared, and wanting to be somewhere else. It reminded me of how alike people are.
Mark Ellingsen
Bonnie Bates
Frank Ramirez
Bill Thomas
Acts 1:1-11
As I write this, world events have inspired any number of Christians in my area to speculate that these are clear signs of the end. By the time you read this those great events will be history, but don’t worry, stuff is happening as you read this that is causing some to speculate those current events are clear signs of the end.
Frank Ramirez
Today’s scriptures call upon us to listen carefully — to Jesus, through his words in the New Testament, and to the Spirit helping us to interpret that word and speaking directly in our hearts. And sometimes God is also speaking to us in the created universe. But make sure it is God we are listening to, and not ourselves.

Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Mark Ellingsen
The lessons for this Festival of Ascension all testify to the heavenly power and cosmic presence of Christ. 

Acts 1:1-11

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
…God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his son. (v. 11b)

Have you ever experienced the presence of God? Have you felt, seen, heard, smelled, tasted or known in some way that the Creator was near?

My colleague Becky Ardell Downs, pastor of John Knox Presbyterian Church in Houston, tells of a time forty years ago when she was attending the funeral of her uncle in the Chicago suburbs. He had died of multiple sclerosis at a relatively young age.
Frank Ramirez
When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. (Acts 1:9)

Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. (Luke 24:50-51)

Defying gravity! What a concept? Is there anyone here who has not dreamt at one time or another that you were actually flying? Or floating? Or in some way defying gravity?

SermonStudio

John Jamison
Have you ever come across a piece of scripture that you really just didn’t know what to do with? Everything you read before it makes sense, and everything after it, but that one passage just sits there staring at you, almost defying you to understand why it is there and what it means.
Stan Purdum
Both Psalms 47 and 93 (the alternative psalm for this day) are enthronement psalms, praise hymns celebrating God's rule over the nations. They were most likely used on festal occasions when Israel again declared that God was its king.

While Psalm 47 was for Israel's celebration, verses 1-2 call all the nations of earth to recognize God as their monarch as well. Verses 3-4, however, return to the specific relationship between God and Israel.

David H. Webb
Today is Ascension Sunday.

Today we commemorate the day when Jesus bid farewell to his followers and friends and ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father.

In some ways it's an anxious day. "How will we go on without him?" they surely whispered among themselves. "How can we possibly maintain the strength and perspective -- the motivation to live according to his teachings and promises? How can we live with determination and purpose if he is not here to sustain us?"

John T. Ball
One of the blessings of God is the gift of writing, of putting our thoughts and observations on clay tablets or jars, on parchment, or on paper. Scholars are not certain when humans first began to write. Many think it happened in Samaria, the civilization between the Tigris and Euphrates, now modern-day Iraq. It may have happened about 3000 B.C.E. Nor is there a consensus on how writing was first used. It may have come from Shamans using it to pass on their skills and secrets. Or writing could have originated as a means to inventory the goods of merchants.
Mark J. Molldrem
Mark -- warlike

Shirley -- bright meadow

Jennifer -- fair lady

Jeffrey -- God's peace

Jesus -- God saves

What's in a name? Ever since God gave Adam the privilege of naming all the creatures, humankind has had a fascination with names. Names are important. Parents take great care when they select a name for their baby. They know the name will be with this new person for a lifetime and will identify him or her to other people.
Jerry L. Schmalenberger
It simply was unthinkable that the appearances of Jesus should grow fewer and fewer after Easter until they finally 'petered out' and melted away. That would have effectively weakened the faith of all people who had seen him. There had to come a day of dividing -- when Jesus of earth became Christ of heaven.
Richard E. Gribble
Many years ago one of the most popular shows on weekly television was Mission Impossible. Each episode of the show opened in a similar way. The head of the Impossible Missions Force, or IMF for short, would be found alone in some isolated office, home, or similar space. He would find a large manilla envelope, generally hidden in a desk drawer or possibly in a safe. Inside the envelope he would find materials that described the next mission of his IMF team. There would be lots of printed material, photographs of the principal people involved, and often maps to show various locations.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Sandy wasn't very good at prayer. Privately he thought it was probably a waste of time, although when things went really wrong he always found himself praying. He wasn't sure that God ever heard his prayers.

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