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Candlelighting service

Children's program

Children's Resources

Children's sermon

SermonStudio

What Shall You Give? -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To share with the children some wonderful gifts they can
The Cover -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the importance of Bible reading.
The Insulting Bonds -- Matthew 26:47-56, Mark 14:43-50 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
After the crowd, with swords and clubs, and the Jewish police arrested Jesus, they bound him in chai
You Are All That Matters To God -- Psalm 50:7-15 -- Erskine White -- 1993
"I know all the birds of the air, and all that moves in the field is mine." (v.
A Winter Experiment -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To think about how love affects us all.
The Need For Balance -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the need for a balanced life and for personal responsibility for it.
The Warning Dream -- Matthew 27:11-26 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
I have a place where I can be alone.It's cool and bare,And quiet there
New Year's Resolution -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To remember that outward appearances are not the most important things in life.
Listening To The Whistle -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To show the need to put into practice what we learn.
The Useless Water -- Matthew 27:11-26 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
All day Sam and Richard played football, sometimes simply fighting over the ball.
The Set Face -- Luke 9:51-56 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
A wise old archer, training two young men to shoot arrows that would hit the target, asked the first
Earphones -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To share with the children our need for time alone and time with other people.
What Shall We Be? -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the importance of what a child learns in the early years.
The Misdirected Tears -- Luke 23:26-31 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
All of us cry sometimes. Jesus wept over Jerusalem, his people.
Through Others Too Far Away -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To show the affect of our influence upon others.
Patience In Learning -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To remind children that patience is an essential part of life.
The Rejected Drug -- Matthew 27:32-37 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
A ten-year-old once said, "When you're put here on earth, it's for a reason.
Even Children Can Be Good Samaritans -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to be good Samaritans.
How God Is Heard Today -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To help children understand one way whereby God speaks to people today.
The Torn Curtain -- Matthew 27:45-54, Mark 15:33-39, Luke 23:44-49 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
There is a story that says there was once a very large religious statue in a temple, but one day a m
Silence -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: Learning to use silence.
The Spoiled Child -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To focus on one way that we learn from God.
The Unused Spices -- Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
Spices are a symbol of love, the love of the women who brought the spices to the tomb of Jesus to po
Easter Is Colorful -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To remind the children that life is beautiful with Jesus and because of Jesus.
Using Your Imagination -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to use their imagination for good.

Christian

Christian Faith

Christian Life

Church Anniversary

Church Growth

Church Leaders

Church Programs

Death

Devotional

SermonStudio

Hear My Cry, O God -- Psalm 61 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint.
Epiphany 2 / OT 2 -- 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2007
He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus
Why, O LORD, Do You Stand Far Off? -- Psalm 10 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Rise up, O LORD; O God, lift up your hand; do not forget the oppressed.
Lent 5 -- Psalm 130 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord ... O Israel, hope in the Lord!
Advent 2 -- Romans 15:4-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in
I Will Extole You, My God And King -- Psalm 145 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Every day I will bless you, and praise your name forever and ever ...
Proper 21 / Pentecost 19 / OT 26 -- Philippians 2:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2007
... Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.-- Philippians 2:12
O LORD, You God Of Vengeance ... Shine Forth! -- Psalm 94 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Rise up, O judge of the earth ... how long shall the wicked exult? ...
Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / OT 18 -- Matthew 14:13-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
... the disciples came to him and said ...
Easter 7 -- Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
God gives the desolate a home to live in; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebel
For God Alone My Soul Waits In Silence -- Psalm 62 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation ...
Epiphany 2 / OT 2 -- John 1:29-42 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2007
I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, "He on whom
In The LORD I Take Refuge -- Psalm 11 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
... how can you say to me, "Flee like a bird to the mountains"? ...
Lent 5 -- Romans 8:6-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Advent 2 -- Matthew 3:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near ...
Praise The LORD! Praise The LORD, O My Soul -- Psalm 146 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
I will praise the LORD as long as I live;
Proper 21 / Pentecost 19 / OT 26 -- Matthew 21:23-32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2007
... By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?
Proper 22 / Pentecost 20 / OT 27 -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2007
You shall have no other gods before me.
O Come, Let Us Sing To The LORD! -- Psalm 95 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O come, let us sing to the LORD;
Proper 14 / OT 19 -- Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
... and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver....
Easter 7 -- 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Discipline yourselves, keep alert.
O God, You Are My God, I Seek You -- Psalm 63 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you;
Epiphany 3 / OT 3 -- Isaiah 9:1-4 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2007
But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish....-- Isaiah 9:1
Help, O LORD, For There Is No Longer Anyone Who Is Godly -- Psalm 12 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
You, O LORD, will protect us; you will guard us from this generation forever.
Lent 5 -- John 11:1-45 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Accordingly, though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, after having heard that Lazaru

Drama

SermonStudio

Sylvester, The Schizophrenic Solicitor -- Exodus 20:1-17, Romans 7:13-25, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19:7-14 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Parable Of The Sower (Soil) -- Mark 4:3, 5, 7, 8 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- 1993
The Devil's Advocate:Mr. Sower -- the soil is now ready.
Walter And Francesca -- 2 Chronicles 36:14-23, Ephesians 2:4-10, John 6:4-15, Psalm 122 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Wicked Husbandmen -- Mark 12:6-7, 9 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- 1993
The Devil's Advocate:
A Single Granary -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Psalm 51 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Waiting -- John 16:4b-15, Acts 2:1-21 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersChurch Secretary: either sex and any age older than college
Every Knee? -- Isaiah 45:21-25, Philippians 2:5-11 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1993
Thespian Theological Thoughts
The Committee -- Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersJanet Jason: female, older than college age
Cooking With Carol -- John 6:24-35, John 6:35, 41-51 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersAnnouncer: either sex, very friendly, warms up the audience for Carol
Searching -- John 6:51-58, John 6:56-69 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersNarrator: male or female, any age
The Deeds -- James 1:17-27 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersMinister: male or female any age over college
The Applicants -- James 2:1-10 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersSecretary: male or female over college age
The Grocery Store -- James 3:1-12, Mark 9:30-37 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
(The lights come up on a woman, sitting on the couch talking on the telephone)
The Pray-er -- James 5:13-20 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersMildred: an elderly lady who is handicapped
The Hotel And Restaurant -- Hebrews 1:1-4, Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersPeter: the maitre d' hotel, middle-aged or older
The Mission -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersAgent 1: male or female, any ageAgent 2: male or female, any age
Are You Calling Me? -- Hebrews 5:1-10 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
(The lights come up on a solitary figure, with no set or props.
The Adoption Agency -- Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17 -- Lori Lee Triplett -- 1993
Cast Of CharactersAgency Director: male or female older than college age
Isaiah's Surprise -- Nancy Steltz -- 1987
Staging: Gabriel is on the far right; Mary is sitting center stage; the chorus stands at left stage.
Recollections of Enoch, A Jewish Captive In Babylon -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
I thought I was an old man when we were brought to Babylon, and I am ten years older now.
Recollections of Sarah, Servant in the Home of Zacharias and Elizabeth -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
I am not really an old woman yet - at least I know a few who are older!
Recollections of Reuben, Uncle of a Young Bethlehem Shepherd -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
It's a great time for you to be asking questions now, after all the blood your soldiers spilled and
Recollections of Abdul, Camel Boy for An Eastern Potentate -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
I'm glad I'm home. That's the first thing for me to say. I'm really glad I'm home.
Recollections of Mary, Daughter of the Keepers of a Bethlehem Inn -- Robert A. Morgan -- 1985
Children, I just can't sit down with you now. I have too much work to do for our guests.
The Women -- William Grimbol -- 1984
SETTING: Five women gathered in a courtyard garden for conversation

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

Preaching

SermonStudio

Proper 25 / Ordinary Time 30 -- Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2006
Psalm 90 is a prayer, expressing gratitude for God's abiding presence in the face of the transient a
Palm Sunday/Sunday Of The Passion -- Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Liturgy Of The Palms, Cycle A; see also The Re
Epiphany 2/Ordinary Time 2 -- Psalm 40:1-11 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2006
Psalm 40 is possibly a combination of two psalms.
Hardship/Overcoming Hardship -- Psalm 129 -- 2006
They have greatly oppressed me from my youth -- let Israel say -- they have greatly oppressed me
First Sunday Of Advent -- Jeremiah 33:14-16, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Luke 21:25-36 -- Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Why In The World Is There A World? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: The subject concerns the reason for our existence.
God Always Wins At Hide And Seek -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: We can't get away from God.
Fifth Sunday in Lent -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, John 12:20-33 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Revised Common Jeremiah 31:31-34 Hebrews 5:5-10 John 12:20-33
Begging, Touching, Healing, Growling -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2005
Miracle Three Begging, Touching, Healing, GrowlingThe Text
Three Little Pigs -- Jesus' Version -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Sometimes we have to preach the obvious such as: we need a strong faith founda
Should You Be Sophisticated Or Naive? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: What should our natural stance be in relationship to the world?
Should Acolytes Wear Sneakers? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How formal or informal should we allow our worship services to become?
Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Carlos Wilton -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2005
Revised Common Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Putting Leftovers In The Offering Plate -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Do we give our best for God, or have we conveniently placed the church and our
Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 or Genesis 2:18-24, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2005
Revised Common Job 1:1; 2:1-10 or Genesis 2:18-24 Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12
Forgiveness Starts A Fight -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2005
Miracle Four Forgiveness Starts A FightThe Text
Can Pagan Objects Be Sanitized? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Are there certain objects or ideas that are off limits to Christians because t
What If Your Minister Misleads You? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How do we recognize the truth or know we can trust the sermons we hear since w
Mom, Where Did We Come From? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Occasionally a sermon on who we are, historically, would be appropriate.
Passion Sunday -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Mark 11:1-11 -- Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2005
Revised Common Isaiah 50:4-9a Philippians 2:5-11
Do You Ever Pretend To Be A Christian? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How do we evaluate our own personal sincerity as we try to put our faith into
Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17 or Amos 5:6-7, 10-15, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2005
Revised Common Job 23:1-9, 16-17 or Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 Hebrews 4:12-16
Breaking The Law To Fulfill It -- Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2005
Miracle Five Breaking The Law To Fulfill ItThe Text
A Just-In-Case Arrangement With God -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: It may not be possible to have a playing-it-safe kind of approach to religion.
Will Sports Craziness Infiltrate The Church? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Will the fanaticism we see in spectators at sporting events ever become a part

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

The Tongue Is Mightier Than The Sword -- James 3:1-12 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2008
The tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.
Skin Game -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2008
Let's think about skin for a minute. Skin is something very precious to us.
Genuine Hope -- Romans 4:13-25 -- Nancy Kraft -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
The season is upon us once again.
Commissioned For Christ -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2008
On a warm and sunny early June day in 1943, John Francis Laboon, "Jake" to his friends, stood with h
Planning Your Way Out -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2008
I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.-- John 6:47
Heavenly Wisdom -- James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2008
Who is wise and understanding among you?
Jesus At Home -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2008
When he [Jesus] returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home.
The Wisdom Of The Cross -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 -- Nancy Kraft -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
There are some people who have the gift of persuasion.
Let The Shofar Sound! -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- Ken Lentz -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2008
The school bell rings. The noonday siren sounds. The church bells call the faithful to worship.
When The Baker Becomes The Bread! -- John 6:51-58 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2008
This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world ...
Antidote For Bad Times -- James 5:13-20 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2008
A minister waited in line to get his car filled with gas just before a long holiday weekend.
Due For Renewal -- Mark 2:13-22 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2008
Every pastor, on occasion, feels the need to remind a congregation that we need not fear things that
It's About Grace -- Ephesians 2:1-10 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
When Bill Clinton was running for president, there was a phrase that drove his political campaign.
Troubled Waters -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- Ken Lentz -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
A man from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, died and went to heaven.
Tough Talk For Tentative Disciples -- John 6:56-69 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2008
This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?-- John 6:60
Living In The Present -- Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2008
Look to this day, for it is life, the very life of life.
Looking Up: Looking Out -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Robert J. Elder -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2008
This passage serves as a gift to the church as we prepare to enter into the season of Lent beginning
God's Great High Priest -- Hebrews 5:5-10 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
Redeemer, Word made flesh, Messiah, Savior, Son of God, Prince of Peace, Christ, Good Shepherd.
Strong In God's Name -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Lee Griess -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
A young man was sent to Spain by his company to work in a new office they were opening there.
Spiritual Resuscitation -- Romans 8:6-11 -- David O. Bales -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
One spring when I was about ten, I was home alone after school.
All In The Family -- 1 John 3:1-31 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
"Surprise!
Storm Walker -- Matthew 14:22-33 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
The call came on a Sunday after church just as we were sitting down to lunch.
Mistaken Identitiy -- Matthew 16:13-20 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2007
Appearances can be deceiving.
Unwanted Freedom -- John 8:31-36 -- Chris Ewing -- Reformation Sunday - A -- 2007
The trouble with words is that they can mean so many different things, depending on who is using the
Lent 2 -- Psalm 27 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- 2007
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Christ -- The One Road
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
An old Jewish proverb says, "A child without a mother is like a door without a knob."
Attending To The Needs Of Others First -- Matthew 14:13-21 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2001
John was tired. He could hardly stand up. He needed rest. Mrs.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Fear
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Alcohol
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
The Spirit, not chance, determines destiny.
Conscience-Building -- 1 Corinthians 3:10-11,16-23 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2001
Trace was known for his strong, durable buildings.
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
The heartbeat of holiness is the pulse of God.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Cross
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Love Sign in a pet shop: "Love Guaranteed Forever." (Quoted by King Duncan)
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"I should as soon attempt to raise flowers if there were no atmosphere, or produce fruits if there w
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
The joy of motherhood is what a mom experiences when the kids have gone to bed.
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
It is God's will that you should be filled with His Spirit and be controlled by His righteousness.
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
President Abraham Lincoln is credited with saying, "All that I am or hope to be, I owe to my angel m
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Human Freedom
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Vision
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Christians
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
A little girl was shown pictures of her mommy and daddy on their wedding day.
Matthew 14:22-33 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2001
Gail, a fourth year graduate student, asked the first year women if they wanted to go for a boat rid
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Following God's Plan
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Alcohol
Today's Trouble Is Enough For Today -- Matthew 6:24-34 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 2001
Margy was born in 1934.
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Being alive unto God comes through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Cross
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Lust

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

NULL -- Hebrews 13:5 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, beca
Third Sunday in Advent -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Luke 16:13 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: "No servant can serve two masters.
First Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
NULL -- Exodus 25:2 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: "Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering.
Theme: Never Been There -- Never Done That -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Revelation 2:3-5) One:
Theme: Standing Stones -- Exodus 24:3-8 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 116:12-13) One:
Theme: Stop The Presses! New Story! -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
NULL -- James 1:25 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continu
Third Sunday in Advent -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Luke 21:2, 3 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.
Second Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipBased on the Genesis 17 passage. Leader:
NULL -- Exodus 35:4, 5a -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Moses said to the whole Israelite community, "This is what the Lord has commanded:
Theme: Have No Fear -- Joel 2:21-27 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 22:26-28) One:
Theme: Yours, Mine, And Ours -- Acts 4:32-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Theme: Lots Of Luck -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 1:1-2) One:
Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom Psalm 125.
NULL -- 1 John 3:17, 18 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on
Fourth Sunday in Advent -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Acts 2:44, 45 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: All the believers were together and had everything in common.
Third Sunday in Lent -- Exodus 20:1-17, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipPsalm 19:1-2 Leader:
NULL -- Leviticus 27:30 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: " 'A tithe of everything from the land,
A Christmas Gift -- Rod Tkach -- 2005
A Christmas Gift Order Of Worship Gathering Music
Theme: As The Lord Lives, I Will Not Leave You -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 50:1-6) One:

Worship Service

Youth Resources

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New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
For December 21, 2025:

SermonStudio

Garth Wehrfritz-Hanson
Pastor: Advent God: We praise and thank you for the word of promise spoken long ago by your prophet Isaiah; as he bore the good news of the birth of Immanuel–so may we be bearers of the good news that Immanuel comes to be with us. God of love:

Cong: Hear our prayer.
Dallas A. Brauninger
1. Text

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.18 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.19 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the
James Evans
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

The recurring phrase, "let your face shine" (vv. 3, 7, 19), offers an interesting opportunity to reflect on the meaning of God's presence in our world. This reflection takes on a particular significance during the Advent season.

Richard A. Jensen
Our Matthew text for this week comes from the first chapter of Matthew. Matthew's telling of the Jesus' story is certainly unique. Matthew tells of the early years of our Savior stressing that his name is Jesus and Emmanuel; that wise sages from the East attend his birth; that Joseph and Mary escape to Egypt because of Herod's wrath. No other Gospel includes these realities.
Mark Wm. Radecke
In the Jewish tradition there is a liturgy and accompanying song called "Dayenu." Dayenu is a Hebrew word which can be translated several ways. It can mean: "It would have been enough," or "we would have been grateful and content," or "our need would have been satisfied."

Part of the Dayenu is a responsive reading that goes like this:

O God, if thy only act of kindness was to deliver us from the bondage of Egypt, Dayenu! -- It would have been enough.
Stephen M. Crotts
Some years ago I was in a London theater watching a Harold Pinter play. The drama was not very good really. I was getting bored. Then right in the middle of the play the theater manager walked on stage, excused himself, and made an announcement. The actors stared. The audience looked shocked. Me? I thought it was all part of the play. Such interruptions are rare in a theater. But nonetheless, the stage manager felt that it was necessary this time. His announcement was nothing trivial like, "Some owner has left his car lights on." Nor was it a terrifying message like, "Fire! Fire!
Timothy J. Smith
It is easy to get so caught up in the sentimentality and nostalgia of Christmas that we neglect the true reason we celebrate. We receive Christmas cards portraying a cute infant Jesus lying in a manger filled with straw. The Baby Jesus is pictured in the center with Mary and Joseph on one side, the shepherds and Magi on the other. We know this scene: animals are in the background, in the distance angels can be seen hovering, as a star shines brightly overhead. However, there is more to Advent and Christmas than celebrating the birth of a baby.
William B. Kincaid, III
If we cannot relate to Joseph and appreciate his situation, then our lives are simple, easy lives indeed. Now, by relating to Joseph or understanding what he endured, I don't mean to suggest that we all either have been engaged or married to someone impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Even in our frantic search for ways to explain how such a thing might have happened, we probably didn't think of blaming the Holy Spirit!
R. Glen Miles
"The Lord himself will give you a sign" is the way Isaiah begins his recitation of the promise containing all promises. Isaiah is talking to Ahaz. Ahaz is the king who is stuck in a political mess. It looks like Assyria is about to invade some of the countries neighboring Judah. Isaiah is recommending that the king refuse to sign on with these other countries and their armies and trust only in Yahweh, the Lord of all. Today's reading is a reminder of the promise of God to be with Ahaz and his people, no matter what happens, no matter who invades.
John T. Ball
Religion is a mutual relationship. We pledge loyalty and devotion to God and God blesses us. This is how Moses worked it out with Yahweh and his people who had recently escaped from Egyptian captivity. If the Israelites prove loyal to this mysterious Sinai god, then God would bless them with prosperity and well being. Those who deal with many gods are no different. Even though they have gods for various concerns, they still expect blessings and security in exchange for loyalty.
Susan R. Andrews
According to tradition, Joseph was the strong, silent type - an older carpenter who willingly submitted to impotent fatherhood - a second--string player in the drama of God's human birth. But according to scripture, none of this is true. All that is actually recorded in the Bible is that Joseph was a dreamer - a righteous man who transformed the meaning of righteousness by taking seriously his dreams.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (UM211, PH9, LBW34, CBH172, NCH116)
The God Of Abraham Praise (UM116, PH488, NCH24)
O Hear Our Cry, O Lord (PH206)
Hail To The Lord's Anointed (UM203)
Blessed Be The God Of Israel (UM209)
Emmanuel, Emmanuel (UM204)
People Look East (PH12, UM202)
Savior Of The Nations, Come (LBW28, CBH178, PH14, UM214)
The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy (CBH202)
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (PH1, 2,UM196, NCH122)

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Just before the first Christmas, an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him that Jesus would also be called "Emmanuel", meaning "God With Us." Let us listen to the guidance of the angels today as we prepare to receive God With Us once again.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, fill me with the awe of Christmas.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with the mystery of Christmas.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with Emmanuel -- God with us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
C. David Mckirachan
Scott Dalgarno
Stan Purdum
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Samantha" by Argile Smith
"I'm Pregnant" by C. David McKirachan
"You'd Better Watch out..." by C. David McKirachan
"Terribly Vulnerable to Joy" by Scott Dalgarno
"The Great Christmas-Tree Battle" by Stan Purdum


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Over the years, I grow more cynical about Christmas and just about everything that goes along with it. I have not become a scrooge, although the advancing years have made me more careful with my pennies. It is not that I cannot be moved by the lights, the music, and the fellowship of the holidays. I have not become an insensitive, unfeeling clod. My problem is that the language and the images and the music seem to have fallen short in expressing what must have been the feelings of the real human beings going through the events recounted in this story.

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What an exciting day this is! Today is the day before Christmas and tonight is Christmas Eve! People have different ways of doing things. Some people open their presents on Christmas Eve. How many of you do that? (Let them answer.) Others open their presents on Christmas Day. Which of you will open your presents tomorrow? (Let them answer.) Some open gifts on other days. Would any of you like to share another time when you open presents? (Give them the opportunity to answer.)

Why do you suppose we open gifts at this time of the year? (Let them answer.)

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