September 8 – 29

“You are the story of Jesus, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on stone but on human hearts.” 2 Cor. 3:3 (Pastor Peter’s paraphrase)

Story Matters is our “BIG idea” for the coming year.  This programmatic theme invites us to explore the profound impact of stories—God’s, ours, and our neighbors’. Guided by the Narrative Lectionary, we will journey through scripture, tracing the overarching narrative of God’s work in the world. This year, we will not only hear these ancient stories but also reflect on how they intersect with our own lives and the lives of those around us.

Our stories, individually and collectively, are threads in the grand tapestry of God’s work in the world. Each thread is unique, yet intricately woven with others to create a beautiful, interconnected whole. As we follow this year’s Narrative Lectionary, we’ll uncover the ways in which our personal journeys are part of a much larger story—a story of creation, promise, redemption, and hope.

Hopefully, this theme will permeate every aspect of our ministry, from worship and faith formation to outreach and fellowship. Together, we’ll seek to understand and share our stories, recognizing that every story matters because it reveals a glimpse of God’s grace and love. Together, we’ll compose a master narrative that deepens our relationships with God and one another, fostering a stronger, more compassionate community rooted in the shared experience of God’s still unfolding story.

Sunday, September 8 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: Genesis 2:4b-7, 15-17; 3:1-8
Sermon Title: The Story Begins… Again. 
Preacher: Pastor Peter Christ
Anthem:  Chancel Choir
Notes: Backpack & Device Blessing.  God’s Work. Our Hands. Sunday 

Sunday, September 15 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: Genesis 15:1-6
Sermon Title:  The Promise is Made
Preacher: Pastor Peter Christ
Anthem:  Chancel Choir
Notes: Installation Service for Alyssa at both services. We’ll be giving thanks for the life of Kathleen Tempel during 10:45 worship.

Sunday, September 22 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: Genesis [37:3-8, 17b-22, 26-34]; 50:15-21
Sermon Title:  The Power of Love.
Preacher: Pastor Peter Christ
Anthem:  Bells of Peace

Sunday, September 29 | 8:30am & 10:45am Worship
Text: Exodus 12:1-13; [13:1-8]
Sermon Title:  Created to be?
Preaching: Youth
Notes: Youth-led service.