As we gradually come to the end of Christmas in July, based upon Ephesians 2:8-18, Rev. Ruth Blum reminds us of the greatest gift we have ever been given; God’s greatest gift which is His love and grace (unmerited favor). This is a free gift that is not earned by works. We are reminded that…
Rev. Lois Hedden shares Luke 2;14, Peace on Earth, good will toward men. In her presentation she refers to a popular Christmas carol. “ I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” which is based on the 1863 poem “Christmas Bells” by American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, written following multiple tragedies in his life. The song…
Matthew 1:18-25 In the spirit of Christmas in July message, Rev. Gary Kennedy introduces us to Joseph, Mary’s betrothed. In his stories he shared a very touching and compelling story about God’s love for us. See John 14:1-4 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God[a]; believe also in me. 2 My…
The worship service opened with a a procession of wise men bringing gifts for the baby. Rev. Gary Kennedy asked, “What gift do YOU bring to Jesus?” The wise men (Magi) had followed a star that moved across the sky to lead them to the King of the Jews. They probably thought they were heading…
Instead of selecting a few verses as a focus, Rev. Lois Hedden has shared an entire passage of scripture in Luke 2:22-40. Simeon had been waiting a very long time for the Messiah. He had been promised he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Simeon recognized Jesus as the Messiah when Mary and Joseph…
The Kennedy family invited us into worship with the lighting of all the candles in the Advent wreath. We were reminded the first candle represents Waiting on the Lord with faithful endurance. The second candle reminded us to Watch for God’s presence in hopeful expectation. The third candle reminded us tp Prepare for the Lord’s…
We have looked through the windows of Waiting, Watching, and Preparing for the coming of Jesus. Now Rev. Ruth Blum and Rev. Lois Hedden along with the Willowbrook Chancel choir under the direction of Dr. Robb Butler and accompanied by Carol Virolainen lead us through a worshipful presentation of Praise using Lessons and Carols about…
Mark shares in his gospel the words of Isaiah encouraging preparation for the coming of the Lord. “‘Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, who shall prepare thy way; the voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” We often look around and see the…
Advent is a time of waiting and anticipation. We watch and wonder what is next in a time of change in our society. We watch with open eyes for what God has in store for us in the days ahead. There have been multiple ebbs and flows in the celebration of Christmas including a time…