Pastor Anthony begins a new series where we delve into not only what we're against but also, what we're for. This series will examine how we can let go of the worst of our religion without giving up on Jesus. In the first sermon looking at Luke 9:23-26, Anthony breaks down the concept of discipleship into four main points: 1. Discipleship is not an invitation to lose or forfeit yourself. 2. Discipleship is an invitation to ruin your life in order to save it. 3. Discipleship is an invitation to wholeness. 4. Discipleship is an invitation to a vision of a radically different society. Looking at discipleship this way, it is about growth, healing, transformation, and how it calls us to challenge societal norms and expectations. Discipleship also calls us to deny certain things in our lives and embrace others. Join us as we dive deeper into the meaning of discipleship and how it can transform our lives and society. Let's challenge ourselves, ask the hard questions, and seek the answers together. What needs to be denied? What needs to be healed?

Pastor Anthony concludes the series "A Weary World Rejoices" and preaches about radical hospitality, the Last Supper, and the birth of Jesus.  Looking at the connection of the kataluma (translation: the guest room) we see how making room helps a weary world to rejoice.

On the third Sunday of Advent, Pastor Tonetta looks at Luke 1 and examines not just how but why a weary world rejoices.

Sunday, December 10, 2023. Anthony Parrott This passage describes the encounters between Mary and Elizabeth, who are both experiencing unusual pregnancies. Elizabeth initially hides herself in seclusion, possibly out of guilt or feelings of unworthiness. Mary, on the other hand, is confused and unsure about the angel's announcement. However, despite their different reactions, both women find joy and connection in each other's presence. The passage emphasizes the importance of finding joy and connection in the midst of pain and weariness. It also highlights the significance of relationships and community in bringing people out of isolation and into joy. Ultimately, joy is seen as an act of resistance against despair and a way to overcome the challenges and suffering of the world.

As we enter the season of Advent we begin a new series "A Weary World Rejoices".  Looking at the story of Zechariah in Luke, Erin examines how it's possible to acknowledge and honor our feelings in order to find hope and joy.

Sunday, December 10, 2023 This sermon describes the encounters between Mary and Elizabeth, who are both experiencing unusual pregnancies. Elizabeth initially hides herself in seclusion, possibly out of guilt or feelings of unworthiness. Mary, on the other hand, is confused and unsure about the angel's announcement. However, despite their different reactions, both women find joy and connection in each other's presence. The sermon emphasizes the importance of finding joy and connection in the midst of pain and weariness. It also highlights the significance of relationships and community in bringing people out of isolation and into joy. Ultimately, joy is seen as an act of resistance against despair and a way to overcome the challenges and suffering of the world.

During Babylonian exile Ezekiel has a vision of a river flowing from God's temple.  While most of us will never experience physical exile we can relate to Ezekiel on levels of sexual orientation, group oppression, or sense of exile from the church.  Pastor Tonetta examines Ezekiel 47:1-12 and looks at how God can be present in the midst of trauma.

I. Introduction- Background information on the church in Ephesus and the reason for Timothy being sent there- Reflection on the importance of church and the question of why we attend  II. The Church as Wounded Healers- Pope Francis' reflection on the church as a field hospital after battle - Questioning whether we sometimes forget our role as wounded healers - Importance of church being about more than just superficial aspects  III. Humility in Spiritual and Practical Lives- Examination of 1 Timothy 6:6-8 emphasizing the call to humility - The idea that we enter and leave the world the same way, focusing on our humanity - The mantra that having bread on the table and shoes on our feet is enough  IV. The Road to Ruin and Destruction- Discussion on the lust for money and its potential consequences - Balancing the desire for financial stability with the call to humility - Consideration of those who struggle with finding work and financial stability  V. Jesus' Teachings on Money and Worry- Connection to the Gospel of Matthew and Jesus' teachings - Examination of Matthew 6:24 and the impossibility of serving both God and money - Analysis of the Lord's Prayer and the emphasis on daily bread - Jesus' teachings on fasting and the dangers of seeking recognition - Jesus' words on worry and the importance of trusting in God  VI. Conclusion- Reflection on the cultural context of Jesus' teachings and their relevance today - Identification of pitfalls to watch out for, such as the lust for money - Encouragement to pursue humility and trust in God's provision

November 19, 2023 - Pastor Tonetta takes a fresh look at Luke 16: 1-13, the story of a rich man who has a manager that is squandering his property.

In the final sermon of the series, Our Holy Habits, Pastor Anthony shows the importance of restorative play. Throughout The Bible rest is set into the rhythms of life. "Learn the unforced rhythms of grace."