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Adult study

African-American History

Bible Study

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Biblical Study

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
Your Light Has Come -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Erskine White -- 1993
"Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you."
The Cover -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the importance of Bible reading.
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
A Winter Experiment -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To think about how love affects us all.
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.
The Need For Balance -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1993
Purpose: To stress the need for a balanced life and for personal responsibility for it.
The Useless Water -- Matthew 27:11-26 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 1993
All day Sam and Richard played football, sometimes simply fighting over the ball.
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 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

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!
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
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.
Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / OT 18 -- Romans 9:1-5 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants....
The LORD Is King -- Psalm 93 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The LORD is king, he is robed in majesty ...
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
Easter 7 -- Acts 1:6-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
He replied, "It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own au
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 ...
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;
Advent 2 -- Matthew 3:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near ...
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.
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?
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"? ...
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 ...
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? ...
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
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
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 ...
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 35:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom ...
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
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.
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.
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....
O Come, Let Us Sing To The LORD! -- Psalm 95 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O come, let us sing to the LORD;

Drama

SermonStudio

The Unprofitable Servant -- Matthew 25:19, 21, 26 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- 1993
The Devil's Advocate:
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 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.
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
The Wicked Husbandmen -- Mark 12:6-7, 9 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- 1993
The Devil's Advocate:
Every Knee? -- Isaiah 45:21-25, Philippians 2:5-11 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Passion Sunday - 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
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 17 / Pentecost 12 / Ordinary Time 22 -- Psalm 81:1, 10-16 -- James Evans -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2006
The writer of Psalm 81 employs a most interesting mixed metaphor.
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.
Christmas Day -- Psalm 98 -- James Evans -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
This psalm gives us the proper theme for a Christmas Day celebration: "Make a joyful noise to the Lo
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
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
God Always Wins At Hide And Seek -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: We can't get away from God.
Why In The World Is There A World? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: The subject concerns the reason for our existence.
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 Acolytes Wear Sneakers? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: How formal or informal should we allow our worship services to become?
Should You Be Sophisticated Or Naive? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: What should our natural stance be in relationship to the world?
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
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
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
Can Pagan Objects Be Sanitized? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Are there certain objects or ideas that are off limits to Christians because t
Mom, Where Did We Come From? -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Occasionally a sermon on who we are, historically, would be appropriate.
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
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
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
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
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.
One Bible -- So Many Churches! -- Terry Cain -- 2005
Purpose Statement: Why are there so many different denominations?

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Reconciliation -- The Heart Of Love -- Hosea 2:14-20 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2008
Have you ever taken a course of action or held a particular attitude, all the while thinking that it
Soul Bread! -- John 6:24-35 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2008
I am the bread of life.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mistaken Identitiy -- Matthew 16:13-20 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2007
Appearances can be deceiving.
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.
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.
Lent 2 -- Psalm 27 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- 2007
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
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

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Hope "A leader is one who deals in hope." (Napoleon Bonaparte)
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Vision
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.
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Fear
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Alcohol
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
The heartbeat of holiness is the pulse of God.
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
Cross
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Love Sign in a pet shop: "Love Guaranteed Forever." (Quoted by King Duncan)
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"The future destiny of the child is always the work of the mother." (Napoleon Bonaparte)
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"I should as soon attempt to raise flowers if there were no atmosphere, or produce fruits if there w
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
A little girl was shown pictures of her mommy and daddy on their wedding day.
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
"The Comforter has come! The Comforter has come!
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Human Freedom
Open Doors: Illustrations, Quotes, And Quips -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Vision
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.
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
Mom Is More Than A 3-Lettered Word -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
One new mom wrote back to her mother that she had worked without ceasing from son-up to son-down!
Derl G. Keefer -- 2001
Being alive unto God comes through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
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
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

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: _________________________
Theme: Silent Lips, Praying Lips -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (1 Samuel 2:1-2, 8)Call To Worship (1 Samuel 2:1-2, 8)
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 -- Luke 16:13 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: "No servant can serve two masters.
NULL -- Exodus 25:2 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: "Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering.
Theme: Standing Stones -- Exodus 24:3-8 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 116:12-13) One:
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 -- 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: _________________________
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: 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 -- Luke 21:2, 3 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.
NULL -- Exodus 35:4, 5a -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: Moses said to the whole Israelite community, "This is what the Lord has commanded:
Theme: Yours, Mine, And Ours -- Acts 4:32-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
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 -- 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: _________________________
Theme: Have No Fear -- Joel 2:21-27 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 22:26-28) 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;
NULL -- Acts 2:44, 45 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: All the believers were together and had everything in common.
NULL -- Leviticus 27:30 -- Leon Collier -- 2005
Minister: " 'A tithe of everything from the land,
Theme: I Had No Idea -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (based on Acts 3:12-13) One:

Worship Service

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Emphasis Preaching Journal

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

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

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

Invitation to Confession:

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

Lord, have mercy.

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

Christ, have mercy.

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

Lord, have mercy

StoryShare

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


What's Up on Christmas Eve

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


* * * * * * * *


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

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

SermonStudio

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CSSPlus

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

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

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

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