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Children's sermon

SermonStudio

Using Your Imagination -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to use their imagination for good.
The Idle Tale -- Matthew 28:1-10, Luke 24:1-12 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
The small, furry, green caterpillar ate its way up the stalk of grass.
Seed Time -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To see death as a time of new life.
The Wind Sock -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To show that we need God's love and wisdom to give our lives proper direction.
The Twice-Traveled Road -- Luke 24:13-35 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
Mr. and Mrs. Wallace were Alison's favorite friends in church.
The Light Of The World -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To show how our lives need to reflect what we believe.
A Bucket Of Water -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to actively seek the things of our faith.
The Identifying Scars -- Luke 24:36-43, John 20:24-29 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
"Alan, you are late again!" Alan's father's jaw twitched, which meant he was not pleased.
Let Your Light Shine -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to share.
Learning From A Flower -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To show why we should be thankful to God.
The Dispelled Doubt -- John 20:19-29 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
Once there was a child who lived during a war. His name was Norman.
The Do-It-Yourself Kit -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to use their God-given powers.
A Disappearing Act -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: It is not necessary to see God; but we can still experience God.
The Propelling Word -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
"You are under arrest," the policeman said to the old man, caught for stealing a loaf of bread, beca
Hidden Treasure -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: True life with God is like a great treasure.
The Wasted Ointment -- Matthew 26:6-13, Luke 7:36-50 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
Our sacred story for today is about a woman who came to Jesus with a jar of very expensive oil and s
The Shortest Distance -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to stick with a task until it is finished.
The Sustaining Promise -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
Long ago King Philip of France issued a decree ordering all Jews under the penalty of death to leave
Pieces Of Paper -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: Understanding values.
The Pointing Table -- Matthew 26:17-30, Mark 14:12-26, Luke 22:7-28 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
There once was a mean dwarf who pushed and shoved, grabbed, and was always first in line.
Fine And False Speech -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to tell the truth.
The Rich And The Poor -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage the children to be friendly to new children in the church.
The Jumping Flame -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To encourage children to try new things.
A Lesson From Paper -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To help the children understand that as we grow older,
The Arrow Of Friendship -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To think about the meaning of true friendship.

Christian

Christian Faith

Christian Life

Church Anniversary

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Devotional

SermonStudio

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;
Praise The LORD! How Good It Is To Sing Praises To Our God -- Psalm 147 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Praise the LORD! How good it is to sing praises to our God ...
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Home Alone For Christmas
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
The Rest Stop
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
Trimming The Tree
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Eve Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
The Missing Jesus
A Christmas Journey: A Christmas Service of Candles and Carols -- Rod Tkach -- 2006
The Christmas Cross
Proper 20 -- Mark 9:30-37 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2005
Mark 9:30-37
Proper 21 -- Mark 9:38-50 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2005
Mark 9:38-50
Easter 6 -- John 15:9-17 -- William W. Helland -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
John 15:9-17
Proper 22 -- Mark 10:2-16 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2005
Mark 10:2-16
Easter 7 -- John 17:6-19 -- William W. Helland -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
John 17:6-19
Proper 23 -- Mark 10:17-31 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2005
Mark 10:17-31
The Resurrection Of Our Lord / Easter Day -- John 20:1-18 -- William W. Helland -- Easter Day - B -- 2005
John 20:1-18
Proper 24 -- Mark 10:35-45 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2005
Mark 10:35-45
Epiphany 2 -- John 1:43-51 -- William W. Helland -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2005
John 1:43-51
Proper 25 -- Mark 10:46-52 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2005
Mark 10:46-52
Epiphany 3 -- Mark 1:14-20 -- William W. Helland -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2005
Mark 1:14-20
Proper 26 -- Mark 12:28-34 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Mark 12:28-34
Epiphany 4 -- Mark 1:21-28 -- William W. Helland -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2005
Mark 1:21-28
Proper 27 -- Mark 12:38-44 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2005
Mark 12:38-44
Epiphany 5 -- Mark 1:29-39 -- William W. Helland -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2005
Mark 1:29-39
Proper 28 -- Mark 13:1-8 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2005
Mark 13:1-8
Epiphany 6 -- Mark 1:40-45 -- William W. Helland -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2005
Mark 1:40-45
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- Mark 9:2-9 -- William W. Helland -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2005
Mark 9:2-9

Drama

SermonStudio

The Men -- William Grimbol -- 1984
SETTING: Four men gathered in a courtyard garden for conversation
The Children -- William Grimbol -- 1984
SETTING: Seven children gathered in a courtyard garden for conversation
The Youth -- William Grimbol -- 1984
SETTING: Three scenes, in a courtyard garden, where two young people are engaged in conversation
The Elders -- William Grimbol -- 1984
SETTING: Two elderly couples dining together in a courtyard garden
The Family of Judas -- William Grimbol -- 1984
SETTING: Monologues by the father, mother, brother, sister and grandmother of Judas
The Good Samaritan -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of Christian love and concern for a narrator, Jesus, a Lawyer, and four solo voices.
The Unjust Steward -- Luke 16:1-13 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of honesty and love for God, for a narrator, a rich man, an accountant, and three solo voi
The Wedding Feast -- Matthew 22:1-14 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of the Kingdom of heaven for a narrator, a king, and three solo voices (or a narrator and
The Unforgiving Servant -- Matthew 18:21-35 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of forgiveness for a Narrator, Jesus, and four solo voices who double as Peter, the Lord,
The Prodigal Son or The Merciful Father -- Luke 15:11-32 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of mercy and forgiveness for a Narrator, Jesus, the youngest son, the Father, and four sol
The Rich Man and Lazarus -- Luke 16:19-31 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of final separation for Jesus and four solo voices.
The Ten Virgins -- Matthew 25:1-13 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of the Kingdom of heaven for a narrator, Jesus, and four solo voices.
The Talents -- Matthew 25: 14-30 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of stewardship for a narrator and four solo voices.
The Sower -- Matthew 13:1-23 -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of unfruitfulness for a narrator and five solo voices (Solo 3 doubles as Isaiah and Solo 5
The Great Banquet Feast -- Robert A. Lehmann -- 1977
A parable of God's Kingdom for a Narrator, the Master, and four solo voices.
John, the Baptizer -- R. Blaine Detrick -- 1976
"Prepare ye the way of the Lord."
Levi, the Publican -- R. Blaine Detrick -- 1976
"All went to be taxed."
Nathan, the Shepherd -- R. Blaine Detrick -- 1976
"Unto you is born this day ... a Savior."
Jacob, the Innkeeper -- R. Blaine Detrick -- 1976
"There was no room ... in the inn."
Balthasar, the King -- R. Blaine Detrick -- 1976
"We have seen his star in the east ..."
Joseph, the Carpenter -- R. Blaine Detrick -- 1976
"Call his name Jesus ..."
Looking the Part -- R. Blaine Detrick -- 1976
Marguerite Detrick
The Faith Bridge -- Joseph Mcbee
CastWaiter: A man or woman
All Too Important -- Joseph Mcbee
CastJim: A busy manKaren: Jim's wife
Caiaphas -- Exodus 40:12-16, Matthew 26:57-68 -- Scott A. Bryte
Good evening.

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

Rainbow-colored Coats And Green-eyed Monsters -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: I think one of the "seven deadly sins" is jealousy, which may be a temptation
Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2005
Revised Common Job 38:1-7 (34-41) or Isaiah 53:4-12 Hebrews 5:1-10
One Bible -- So Many Churches! -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Why are there so many different denominations?
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
Our Cat Doesn't Know We Don't Have A Cat -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: So many people don't realize they belong to God, and some of us that do realiz
Day of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21 or Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2005
Revised Common Acts 2:1-21 or Ezekiel 37:1-14
The Gift Of Life For The Givers Of Life -- Mark 5:21-43 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2005
Miracle Seven The Gift Of Life For The Givers Of LifeThe Text
A Buddhist, A Mormon, And An Atheist Were Out In A Boat Fishing -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Dialogue with other faiths and denominations leading to better understanding a
Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17 or Jeremiah 31:7-9, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2005
Revised Common Job 42:1-6, 10-17 or Jeremiah 31:7-9 Hebrews 7:23-28
Guns  Rn't Us -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: We must explore whether guns are worth the cost of life and limb.
Batman, Wonder Woman, Jesus, And Other Superheroes -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How is Jesus like, and not like, our superheroes?
"Feel Good" Religion: A Contemporary Theology -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose statement: Has the trend in our religion or faith today deteriorated to the point where o
Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 4:26-34 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2005
Revised Common 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17
Leftover Grace -- John 6:1-21 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2005
After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, also called the Sea of Tiberias.
A Blueprint For Dying -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: A Christian should prepare for death and find ways of serving even after death
Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Theme For The Day In Jesus Christ, the kingdom of God is near at hand.
Ate With Any Wicked People Lately? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: As Christians are we allowed to associate with "bad" people?
How Do You Define Yourself? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Who are we and what do we let determine who we are?
Take This Religion Test -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Periodically, each pastor should challenge each of us with the question, "Are
Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2005
Revised Common 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23) 32-49 or 1 Samuel 17:57--18:5, 10-16
Getting Back Into The Conversation -- Mark 7:31-37 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
Miracle Eight Getting Back Into The ConversationThe Text
Developing Extra-Ray Vision -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: A Christian should become continually more sensitive to his or her total envir
Abandon Truth All Ye Who Enter Here -- Larry Lange -- 2005
Developing A Sermon Which Retells A Biblical Story
Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44, Psalm 127, 1 Kings 17:8-16, Psalm 146 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2005
Theme For The Day Jesus encourages proportionate giving.
When Your Friends Are Naughty -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How do we act when our friends do wrong things?

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

The Road No One Wants To Travel -- Matthew 16:21-28 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2007
Some time ago, I was riding a train through central England and a man boarded at one of the stops.
Looking At Jesus From Behind Prison Bars -- Matthew 11:2-11 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
How different things must have looked for John behind prison walls.
Being A Blessing -- Genesis 12:1-4a -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Have you ever been blessed by someone?
All Who Share This Hope -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Chris Ewing -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
There's nothing like a week with two funerals, a wedding, Halloween celebrations, a community farewe
Experiencing Second Chances -- Luke 13:1-9 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- 2007
Why is it that if someone says there are a billion stars out, we never question the accuracy?
Faith To Follow -- John 3:1-17 -- Lee Griess -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
How much faith does it take to follow? How much trust in God must we have?
Humility: We Know It When We See It -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- David O. Bales -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
In 1860, Abraham Lincoln won the Illinois Republican Presidential nomination in this way: Lincoln's
Mentoring Matters -- 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
A man, a woman, a house, and a pitchfork.
Foreign Territory -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28 -- John E. Sumwalt -- 2007
I grew up "poor" -- or so I thought.
Personal Politics -- Matthew 18:15-20 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2007
Thomas Browne said that "the vices we scoff at in others laugh at us from within ourselves." More th
Center Stage -- Matthew 1:18-25 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Now that Matthew has finished his genealogy, he starts his narrative.
Masks -- Matthew 23:1-12 -- Chris Ewing -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
There are going to be a lot of people running around out there with masks on this week.
Lent 4 -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-24 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- 2007
Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him.
Streams Of Living Water -- John 4:5-42 -- Lee Griess -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Streams of living water ...
The Ordinary In God's Hands -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- David O. Bales -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 2007
The apostle Paul writes to a church where he was the founding pastor.
Tomb It May Concern -- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
One of the first things Pastor Susan heard about when she moved from Ohio to the mountains of North
Are You Ready For Christmas? -- Isaiah 40:3-4, Luke 2:1-7 -- William Powell Tuck -- 2007
As we approach Christmas, the question will be heard on many lips: "Are you ready for Christmas?" A
How Beautiful The Feet -- Romans 10:5-15 -- Larry Lange -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
The whole thing is stupid and unnecessary, Judy was thinking as she was driving to the nursing home.
A Shepherd's Story -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
It's not an easy life, I'll tell you that.
Are All Your Sons Here? -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
I remember sixth grade as though it were yesterday.
Ready For God's Reign -- Matthew 25:1-13 -- Chris Ewing -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
This parable has to be one of the least liked in the whole Bible.
Experiencing Extravagant Worship -- John 12:1-8 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- 2007
Gentlemen, imagine that you want to take your wife or girlfriend on an extravagant date.
A God Who Suffers With Us -- John 9:1-41 -- Lee Griess -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Sometimes you have to wonder.
A Friday We Call "Good" -- Hebrews 10:16-25 -- David O. Bales -- Good Friday - A -- 2007
After our last trip to Israel, a number in our group met to share photos and memories.
How, Then, Shall We Live? -- 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
I saw on America's Funniest Videos recently a little girl, about five or six years old, in a

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"The Comforter has come! The Comforter has come!
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Christians
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
Oh, To Be Quiet! -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2001
Lucy had a big mouth. Not literally, for she had a beautiful mouth.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Involvement
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Vision
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"A mother never realizes that her children are no longer children." (Holbrook Jackson)
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
The moral cesspools of life are removed by the whirlpools of the Spirit.
A Religious Dilemma -- John 18:1-19:42 -- Constance Berg -- Good Friday - A -- 2001
Maia knew she was carrying twins.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Forgiveness
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Revival
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"Of all the men I have known, I cannot recall one whose mother did her level best for him when he wa
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly lov
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Death
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Marriage
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy." (Spanish proverb)
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Holiness is wholeness -- the wholeness of Christ in the whole of life for the whole of eternity.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Christmas -- Birthday
Conformed Or Transformed? -- Romans 12:1-8 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2001
This little verse packs a lot of punch.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Jealousy
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Vision
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"What the mother sings to the cradle goes all the way down to the coffin." (Henry Beecher)
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Holiness removes the selfish sin.
Rainbow -- Romans 5:12-19 -- Constance Berg -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
The clown came walking ever so slowly up the aisle, smiling. She looked around.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Friends

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

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:
Theme: You Explain It -- Isaiah 25:6-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 118:1-2, 8-9, 14, 18) One:
Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipPsalm 19 Leader: The heavens sing of the glory of God;
A Christmas Gift -- Rod Tkach -- 2005
A Christmas Gift Order Of Worship Gathering Music
Fourth Sunday in Advent -- Luke 1:46b-55 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Acts 3:6 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you.
NULL -- Deuteronomy 8:18 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: But remember the Lord your God,
Theme: What Good Is That? -- Acts 4:5-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (based on Acts 4:7 and 12)One:
Fourth Sunday in Lent -- Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipThis is what Jesus was born for. Leader:
Theme: Fashion Report -- Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Frank Ramirez -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 6:1)
Theme: Pass Around Passover -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37, Psalm 1 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipPsalm 1:1-3 (The Message)Leader:
O Come, Emmanuel -- Jeffrey A. Whitman -- 2005
Introduction
Fourth Sunday in Advent -- Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Acts 4:34-35 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: There were no needy persons among them.
NULL -- 1 Samuel 7:18, 19b -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and he said: "Who am I, O Sovereig
Theme: Try And Stop Us -- Acts 8:26-40 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Fifth Sunday in Lent -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, John 12:20-33 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipA general Call To Worship. Leader:
Theme: Too Late To Be Quiet -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 148:11-13) Older:
A Sense Of Past And Future -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- New Year's Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom Psalm 124. Leader:
Second Sunday in Advent -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
NULL -- Acts 24:16, 17 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.
NULL -- 2 Kings 12:4 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Joash said to the priests, "Collect all the money that is brought as sacred offerin
Theme: That'll Show Us -- Acts 10:44-48 -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 98:1)

Worship Service

Youth Resources

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 4
32 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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100+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

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


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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."

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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 -

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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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