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

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Proper 18 / Pentecost 16 / OT 23 -- Exodus 12:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2007
...
Proper 10 / Pentecost 8 / OT 15 -- Genesis 25:19-34 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
Isaac loved Esau, because he was fond of his game; but Rebekah loved Jacob.
Praise The LORD! I Will Give Thanks With My Whole Heart -- Psalm 111 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Praise the LORD! I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart,
The Holy Trinity -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2007
And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.-- Matthew 28:20
Epiphany 7 / OT 7 -- Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2007
... You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.-- Leviticus 19:2
O God, The Nations Have Come Into Your Inheritance -- Psalm 79 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O God, the nations have come into your inheritance,
O LORD, My Heart Is Not Lifted Up -- Psalm 131 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O LORD, my heart is not lifted up ... I do not occupy myself with things
Easter 3 -- 1 Peter 1:17-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mut
Christmas 2 -- Psalm 147:12-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and ordinances to Israel.
Ascribe To The LORD, O Heavenly Beings -- Psalm 29 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength ... worship the LORD in holy splendor ...
Great Is The LORD And Greatly To Be Praised -- Psalm 48 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised in the city of our God.
Proper 26 / Pentecost 24 / OT 31 -- Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, those he redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the land
Lent 2 -- Genesis 12:1-4a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
I will make of you a great nation ...
Proper 18 / Pentecost 16 / OT 23 -- Psalm 149 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2007
Let the high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands.
Proper 10 / Pentecost 8 / OT 15 -- Psalm 119:105-112 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.-- Psalm 119:105
Praise The LORD! Happy Are Those Who Fear The LORD -- Psalm 112 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Praise the LORD! Happy are those who fear the LORD,
Proper 5 / Pentecost 3 / OT 10 -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2007
... Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.
Epiphany 7 / OT 7 -- Psalm 119:33-40 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2007
Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.
Give Ear, O Shepherd Of Israel -- Psalm 80 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Stir up your might and come to save us! ... look down from heaven, and see;
O LORD, Remember In David's Favor -- Psalm 132 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
For the LORD has chosen Zion; he has desired it for his habitation:
Easter 3 -- Luke 24:13-35 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them.
Christmas 2 -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
...
I Will Extol You, O LORD -- Psalm 30 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O LORD, my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me ...
Hear This, All You Peoples -- Psalm 49 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Hear this, all you peoples; give ear, all inhabitants of the world,
Proper 26 / Pentecost 24 / OT 31 -- 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
We also constantly give thanks to God for this, that when you received the word of God that you h

Drama

SermonStudio

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

Easter

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SermonStudio

For Those Of Uncertain Faith/Expansive Promise Of God -- Isaiah 43:6-13 -- 2006
I will say to the north, "Give them up!" and to the south, "Do not hold them back." Bring my sons
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- Exodus 34:29-35, 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Carlos Wilton -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Those who have encountered God are a beacon to others.
Proper 23 / Pentecost 21 / Ordinary Time 28 -- Psalm 22:1-15 -- James Evans -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2006
(See Good Friday, Cycle A; Good Friday, Cycle B; and Lent 2, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.
Proper 14 / Ordinary Time 19 -- Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2006
(See Proper 12/Pentecost 10/Ordinary Time 17, Cycle A, for an alternative approach to 105:1-11, 4
Proper 16/Pentecost 14/Ordinary Time 21 -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Hebrews 12:18-29, Luke 13:10-17 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Lent 5 -- Psalm 126 -- James Evans -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
There is perhaps no greater challenge to the life of faith than suffering.
Christmas 1 -- Psalm 148 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Christmas 1, Cycle A; Christmas 1, Cycle C; an
Advent 4 -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- James Evans -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2006
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative app
Ash Wednesday -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Carlos Wilton -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Ash Wednesday is a time for having a good cry.
Proper 14/Pentecost 12/Ordinary Time 19 -- Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2006
(For an alternative approach to vv.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Psalm 47 -- Stan Purdum -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2006
Both Psalms 47 and 93 (the alternative psalm for this day) are enthronement psalms, praise hymns cel
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2006
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycles B and C, for alternative approaches.)
The Resurrection! -- John 20:1-18 -- 2006
Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and
For One Who Longed To Know God -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- 2006
"The time is coming," declares the Lord, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israe
Proper 24/Pentecost 22/Ordinary Time 29 -- Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- James Evans -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2006
Psalm 104 begins and ends with a unique call to praise.
Psalm 133 - Proper 15 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Psalm 133 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2006
This little gem of a psalm celebrates the joy of unity among comrades in the faith.
Proper 17/Pentecost 15/Ordinary Time 22 -- Jeremiah 2:4-13, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2006
Theme For The DayOur faith calls us to offer hospitality to others.
Epiphany 6 / Ordinary Time 6 -- Psalm 1 -- James Evans -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
(See Proper 20/Pentecost 18/Ordinary Time 25, Cycle B for an alternative approach.)
Christmas 2 -- Psalm 147:12-20 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2006
This psalm was likely written for the people of Jerusalem after their return from exile (see vv.
Christmas Eve -- Psalm 96 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Christmas Eve, Cycle B, for an alternative app
First Sunday In Lent -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Romans 10:8b-13, Luke 4:1-13 -- Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 15 / Pentecost 10 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- James Evans -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2006
(See Advent 4, Cycle A, and Advent 1, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.)
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Psalm 93 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Ascension Of Our Lord, Cycle A, for an alt
Easter 5 -- Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stan Purdum -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2006
(See Liturgy Of The Passion, Cycle A, Cycle B, and Cycle C, for alternative approaches to vv.
Pronounced Innocent And Made Whole -- Romans 5:6-11 -- 2006
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Disintegration And Reintegration -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- John S. Smylie -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2008
Today's reading is the longest assigned reading that we have the entire year.
Love In Action -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Love one another. It sounds so simple, doesn't it?
Small Sin, Large Grace -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2008
This pericope is in two parts. First there is the testimony of Nathan against David.
Time's A-Wasting -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2008
Just when everything seems as normal as can be ...
Father, Forgive Them -- Luke 23:32-34 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him.
Death Meets The Lord -- Isaiah 25:6-9 -- Ken Lentz -- Easter Day - B -- 2008
The writer quoted in Isaiah 25 promises that an unlikely victory will occur.
When God Says, 'No' -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Steven Molin -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2008
There is a candy shop in the city of Keystone, South Dakota, just a few hundred yards down the mount
The Perfect Sacrifice -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2008
They came day after day in a steady stream, entering the temple with a mixture of excitement and ant
For The Life Of Betsy D. I. Smylie -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- John S. Smylie -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2008
For many thousands of years, men and women of myriad tongues and races have gathered underneath the
I Love You, Too -- 1 John 4:7-21 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
When someone says, "I love you," the natural reply is, "I love you, too." If you're in a loving rela
When Necks Break -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2008
What is the point of war? Even wars of old?
Can Teach, Can Do -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2008
Every time I have ever studied this passage with other people, it seems to me that we have been all
Paradise -- Luke 23:39-43 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah
What Is Our City? -- Acts 4:32-35 -- Ken Lentz -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
In the text from Acts 4, we get a glimpse of life in the Christian community after the resurrection
Calling Out In The Darkness -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Steven Molin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2008
He was an embarrassment; he had been ever since he went blind.
Long Live The King -- Revelation 1:4b-8 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2008
I was just a little shy of my fifth birthday, so all the images are not completely clear.
Silence And Darkness -- John 18:1--19:42 -- John S. Smylie -- Good Friday - B -- 2008
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Loving God -- 1 John 5:1-6 -- Nancy Kraft -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Are you in love with God?
Wise Leadership -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2008
Solomon asks for the right thing: He asks for wisdom.
Spiritual Gifts: God's Gift Of Fulfillment -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Scott Suskovic -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Now you have every spiritual gift you need.-- 1 Corinthians 1:7 (NLT)
Woman, Here Is Your Son -- John 19:26-27 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his moth
Three O'Clock At The Temple -- Acts 3:12-19 -- Ken Lentz -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
A church caught on fire.
Ollie, Ollie, All In Free! -- John 8:31-36 -- Steven Molin -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2008
It is probably not theologically advisable to begin a sermon with a complaint, but I am going to def
The Great Thanksgiving -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2008
It is not only Thanksgiving Day, but a day of thanksgiving.
Looking For Jesus? -- John 20:1-18 -- John S. Smylie -- Easter Day - B -- 2008
The Lord is risen! The Lord is risen indeed!

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Remember Your Baptism -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- John E. Sumwalt, Theonia Amenda -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2003
It was 1984. I was sitting in the front row in a classroom in Nashville, listening to Dr.
Recovered Memory -- Isaiah 43:16-21 -- John E. Sumwalt, Bruce Stunkard -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2003
I was a male glossophobiac. An avoider of spotlights. Stage frightened.
AAADD -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2003
"Do you believe in life after death?" the boss asked one of his new employees.
Where's Jesus? -- Luke 24:1-12 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Easter Day - C -- 2003
I have a hobby that some people might think odd, if not perverse.
An Unlikely Angel -- Luke 2:1-20 -- John E. Sumwalt, David Michael Smith -- 2003
He staggered in fifteen minutes after the traditional holiday hymn sing had begun, plopping with a t
Visions Of Christ -- Colossians 1:11-20 -- John E. Sumwalt, Linda Nafziger-meiser -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2003
In 1982-86, my husband and I lived in the Shenandoah Valley near Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Maundy Thursday Visions -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lisa Lancaster -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
In 1985, I was struggling deeply with a very painful friendship.
Sex Is A Turnoff -- Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2003
You've seen the ads.
The First Jesus Seminar -- John 20:19-31 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
No biblical character has suffered as much exegetical and theological abuse as Thomas.
Chosen As Witnesses -- Acts 10:34-43 -- John E. Sumwalt, Theonia Amenda -- Easter Day - C -- 2003
Our first grandchild died two months shy of his fourth birthday.
He Will Wipe Away Every Tear -- Revelation 21:1-6a -- John E. Sumwalt, Rosmarie Trapp -- New Year's Day - C -- 2003
In 1987, I came to Stowe, Vermont, for a visit with my mother, Maria Von Trapp.
Lopsided Clay -- Jeremiah 18:1-11 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2003
My wife is a potter. She has a wheel in the sun room and a kiln in the garage.
A Shop That Specializes In Conversions -- Acts 9:1-6 (7-20) -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
Have you converted anything lately?We do it all the time.
Holy Coincidences -- John 20:19-31 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lee Domann -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
My mother's only brother died in March, 1983, in a car/train accident. I was devastated.
A Single Drop Of Blood -- Luke 22:14--23:56 -- John E. Sumwalt, Wayne Frank -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2003
I was first elected as an Alderman on Milwaukee's south side after a special election in 1973.
The Parable Of The Lost Dog -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2003
Like most of the general population, I lose things all the time.
Freeze-dried Or On Ice? -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
Slugger Ted Williams, "the greatest hitter in the world," the last player to hit over .400 for a sea
The Other End Of The Barrel -- Acts 9:1-20 -- John E. Sumwalt, Shirley Lochowitz -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
Seven years ago, I was working as a police officer for the Town of Caledonia Police Department.
A Day Of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21 -- John E. Sumwalt, Ellen Sherry -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2003
I was raised in the Congregational Church.
Prayer Meeting On The First Tee -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2003
I attend a small country church where I volunteer my time to preach and plan worship.
The Ketchup Church -- Acts 11:1-18 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
My parents didn't put up with a lot of foolishness.
Life-giving Plasma -- Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt, Harold Weaver -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
In August of 1966, I visited Germany.
Steadfast Love -- Psalm 85 -- John E. Sumwalt, Christal Bindrich -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2003
My brother died on March 15, 2001, at the age of 56.
Body Building -- 1 Timothy 6:6-19 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2003
The psalmist David seems to have it right when he muses, "It was you who formed my inward parts ...
The Nanotest -- John 14:23-29 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
When I was a kid I got sick probably as much as the next kid, but not abnormally so.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

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

Worship Service

Youth Resources

UPCOMING WEEKS
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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.)

Special Occasion

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