tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8872990297649401762011-10-01T15:34:39.113-04:00Celebrating our Presbyterian heritage...discerning our future in ChristKWnoreply@blogger.comBlogger2431100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-27099001984759256422011-01-03T12:44:00.002-05:002011-01-03T12:53:57.261-05:00

Well, not for me exactly - but I am honored to preside at one this weekend and am very excited. Blessings on the new family! Please pray for all married couples everywhere. Marriage is a gift from God and warrants our thanks and praise.Yesterday's service was lovely as usual...a bit light in attendance as people finished their Christmas vacations before work and school returned to "normal." I'm

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-67634156673918815062010-12-21T15:17:00.004-05:002010-12-21T15:24:08.650-05:00

Or nearly so. This has been a peaceful Advent - I pray that it has been so for you. The God of Advent Hope and Christmas Joy be with you all.The last sermon I preached (12/12/10) is here. I really enjoyed writing and preaching this! No preaching for me until Jan. 2. In the meantime, enjoy the Christmas caroling and the rest of the festivities of the season.Image is "The Nativity" painted by John

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-87911999455492838082010-12-06T13:26:00.004-05:002010-12-06T13:51:41.067-05:00

then where does that leave the rest of us? John's doubts in prison resound like a moan of despair. Where is that booming voice, that prophet of prophets, who proclaims, "Prepare the way!"?Alone and afraid I imagine. The Jesus he thought he knew, the one he baptized, the one he greeted womb to womb with leaps of joy now appears in John's mind to be someone else. Maybe.I worry about John because if

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-89139950877018993652010-12-01T08:00:00.002-05:002010-12-01T08:09:13.569-05:00

Advent is here at last and the church calendar is as full as can be. Please visit the church's website here to check out everything going on.Last week's sermon is here.The texts for 12/5 are:Isaiah 11:1-10Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19Matthew 3:1-12Cool art is by Hanna-Cheriyan Vargese, a Malaysian artist. The painting is titled "Jesus the Light of the World."

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-5292187833491540782010-11-18T07:37:00.002-05:002010-11-18T08:15:45.652-05:00

I've long been a fan and modest supporter of microloan enterprises. These tiny loans, often as little as $25, are lent to people in underdeveloped pockets of the world to establish and sustain cottage industries. These loans transform lives in substantial ways, helping the borrowers achieve economic independence. Once the borrowers are able to repay the loan, often the money is "paid forward"

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-62955687642235780692010-11-09T15:16:00.002-05:002010-11-09T15:26:37.702-05:00

Believe it or not, I used to update this every week, rain or shine. Now it seems to take 3 or so weeks. Mea Culpa.For the interested, the last three sermons are here, here, and here. I really liked the last one. Alot.The texts for the next two weeks take us right to Jerusalem and the cross as we end the liturgical year and look towards the next. I'm not sorry to finish preaching Luke - after a

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-88313569473979314772010-10-18T10:38:00.005-04:002010-10-18T11:00:21.626-04:00

On Oct. 31st we will celebrate the Lord's Day, commit ourselves to the stewardship of the church, and give thanks to God for all the saints. It will be a BIG day - and we will have a fabulous potluck afterward. Be there!Yesterday's service was pretty good. Saw old friends back after an injury and recuperation, the choir was back in their "lofty" position, and I climbed back into the pulpit again.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-83785201182668175362010-10-11T11:02:00.002-04:002010-10-11T11:30:21.679-04:00

The days in October in Virginia are like no other on earth. The skies are clear and blue, the days are warm and the nights cool. Fall flowers seem more vibrant and the air is sweetly fragrant. I love fall, especially here.But the days fly, don't they. At church we're beginning to plan Advent and Christmas; I'm already thinking about Lent. Oy! I don't want to wish time away, I want to slow it down

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-75291370967027681812010-10-04T12:11:00.004-04:002010-10-04T12:49:50.630-04:00

My goodness, but I've gotten lazy about this page. Profuse apologies and petitions for forgiveness.First, a load of sermons.The Honorable Thing to Do Is, 8/28If Only: A Homily of Grace, 9/5Disconsolate, 9/11Broken. Still Good., 9/19Big G God, 9/26Stand By, 10/3Next, our Stewardship Devotional.And next again, our latest newsletter.Finally (for publications, that is), a copy of last week's "

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-2063339278604714302010-08-18T07:09:00.002-04:002010-08-18T07:27:48.284-04:00

As believers, our destination is always Jerusalem, always following Jesus, ministering along the way, sustaining one another in faith, fueled by the Spirit. Our faithful living is metaphor for Scripture, encountering God through prophets ordained to speak directly to us. We live God's unfolding story, integral actors in God's divine plan for creation and redemption. What grace we have been given

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-71779692630388147282010-08-10T09:22:00.003-04:002010-08-10T09:31:22.095-04:00

Long time, no blog. Sorry - sometimes priorities shift and a few things get away. So here I am, back and posting. Old things first - a festival of sermons are linked here (there are 5).Next things next, texts for this Sunday areIsaiah 5:1-7 (The song of the unffulfilled vineyard)Luke 12:49-56 (Jesus comes with sword)As we move through the liturgical year towards Christ the King Sunday, the texts

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-28150473924772953152010-06-07T10:32:00.003-04:002010-06-07T10:45:01.275-04:00

Easy answer - Jesus. Paul goes into good detail about this in his letter to the Galatians, stressing that we can't get there by doing the works of the law. We'll fail every single time. But with Jesus...Well now, we're not simply justified by faith the Spirit instills in us desire to do the works of the law. Faith without works is dead, according to James (2:20). What is the mark of our

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-15088846125943908442010-05-24T11:13:00.002-04:002010-05-24T11:20:05.646-04:00

Friends, yesterday's service was fabulous. Both of them were! The threatening rain held back so that we enjoyed a sunny prayer service out in the courtyard - 26 people attended inside the courtyard, while about 5 people lingered on the sidewalk to listen. Keeping it friendly and hospitable, joyful and thoughtful - may many more join us at 9:00 for this service.The 11:00 service was wild with

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-9573284909885439242010-05-11T08:34:00.001-04:002010-05-11T08:37:20.157-04:00

Audio links to the sermon and music. Click here and enjoy!

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-50921542475281531232010-05-04T14:55:00.003-04:002010-05-04T15:05:41.075-04:00

Friends, it's been a wonderful week so far. I so love this ministry that God has given. Alleluia! Looking forward to next Sunday - in addition to being the 6th Sunday in the Easter season, it's also the secular observance of Mother's Day. Today a colleague informed me of the origins of the day, follow the link here and scroll down to the History of the American Celebration, you might be

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-56075748393548858062010-04-29T07:50:00.002-04:002010-04-29T08:00:27.762-04:00

There is nothing quite so lazy as a lazy blogger...it's been weeks since I've posted and I have no good reason. Mea culpa.Eastertide continues as we celebrate the 5th Sunday of Easter and share the Lord's supper which is the feast of the kingdom that is now and not yet. That's the peculiar point of our theology - the now and the not yet, bound together just as we are bound to earth and the

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-62508963073621592402010-03-15T13:28:00.002-04:002010-03-15T13:42:14.678-04:00

Totally let last week go by without posting and for that I apologize. In case you are still interested, the meditation from First Fellowship, March 7 is here and from the 11:00 service is here.Yesterday we heard God's word proclaimed through the Cantata "The Suffering Servant." It was powerful, very moving. Thanks to the choir, the string quartet, and our Director of Music Ministries.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-8925642121253454362010-03-01T11:25:00.002-05:002010-03-01T11:33:49.876-05:00

Hi Friends! Gosh, it is good that March has finally arrived, isn't it? We had such a dreary February...Yesterday's service was fun, I thought. Thanks to all you brave Presbyterians who sat in a different place, swayed to the music, or did something else entirely new. Yay, you! Keep it going.Yesterday's two sermons are ready for your reading. First Fellowship is here. Main service is

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-60281194489332151812010-02-26T08:15:00.002-05:002010-02-26T08:26:59.128-05:00

Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas is showing up in Hampton Roads tomorrow, Saturday Feb. 27. You know who these people are, they are the church who shows up at military funerals and yells hateful things to the grieving family. Their website (and I cringe as I write it) is godhatesfags.com.This group, or so it has been reported, makes its money through litigation. Apparently they try

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-32103378207021736072010-02-22T15:44:00.003-05:002010-02-22T16:02:35.076-05:00

The last two weeks have been so hectic that I never got around to uploading the sermon & meditation from February 14. Sorry. Herewith, everything:Feb. 14 sermonFeb. 21 meditation (First Fellowship)Feb. 21 sermonThe texts for Feb. 28, the second Sunday in Lent, are:Genesis 15: 1-12, 17-18Luke 13: 31-35Be sure to visit the church's website for an updated calendar of events, fpcports.orgThe image

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-8583696809863019192010-02-08T10:49:00.003-05:002010-02-08T11:05:06.671-05:00

This is the Sunday where we read about the mountaintop experience of Jesus, Peter, John, and James. As Jesus prayed, his appearance altered and his clothing became dazzling white. Elijah and Moses appeared with him in glory. When I think of this mountaintop experience I give thanks for God's power to reveal the mysterious glory of heaven so that mere mortals can see it and live. Alleluia!

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-26361976286959108282010-02-02T12:53:00.004-05:002010-02-02T13:04:00.192-05:00

As promised in February's newsletter (coming soon to a mailbox near you), the 11:00 worship service will feature music, prayers, and an affirmation of faith that reflect the season; we will use these each Sunday in Lent.To listen to a brief clip of Open Your Ears, O Sons and Daughters, click here.For the affirmation of faith (aka confession of faith), the first question and answer of the

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-80483674601735621462010-02-02T10:32:00.008-05:002010-02-02T10:58:06.506-05:00

Or as it is known formally the 5th Sunday in Ordinary time.Every time someone misses a Sunday worship service I usually say that it was the best service ever - the best music with our favorite hymns, great prayers, the unmistakable presence of the Spirit and the most fabulous sermon ever preached. Though I wish that were all true for last Sunday, unfortunately none of it was. We canceled

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-42057343124939229662010-01-25T10:59:00.002-05:002010-01-25T11:17:41.551-05:00

We will receive a special offering to benefit the Haitian Relief effort. All money received will be given to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance who works with other relief agencies to provide the most good. Please consider you gifts and ask God what to do. Please pray for the people of Haiti and the relief effort.Jan. 24th is the 4th Sunday in ordinary time. Ordinary time simply means a Sunday

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-51789192954022001032010-01-21T12:58:00.003-05:002010-01-21T13:17:49.269-05:00

How time gets away! This week has flown by in a flurry of meetings and visits, all good, all blessed by God. Time today to write and study - another of God's blessings. Past time to publish the Scriptures appointed for January 24th:Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10Psalm 19Luke 4:14-21Past time, too, to publish last Sunday's sermon and the meditation from First Fellowship.I'm enjoying the First

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-69205037514441923182010-01-11T16:25:00.003-05:002010-01-11T16:41:08.007-05:00

On January 17 we hear John's account of the wedding in Cana and Jesus' first miracle - turning water into wine. The text is more complex every time I read it, there is much more than good wine flowing in this story. Want to read ahead?John 2:1-11 (the wedding feast miracle)Isaiah 62:1-5 (God's promise of salvation)There are plenty of study guides and other reading helps on the internet. My

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-49799859562433778712010-01-06T14:49:00.002-05:002010-01-06T15:00:30.739-05:00

After a long hiatus - a sabbatical of sorts, really, I am delighted to be back and blogging. To you who have read this page in the past, welcome back! To you who are new, I'm so glad you've decided to stop here for a bit.What have I been up to? Glad you asked. Resting. Reading. Contemplating my life and call. Praying. It has been a gift, these last 6 weeks. Now, though, I am joyfully,

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-19955396512942337032009-11-12T08:43:00.001-05:002009-11-12T08:44:45.727-05:00

Friends,This space and I will be on hiatus for the rest of the year. Check back in January for all the latest on the Pastor's Page!Thanks for reading.

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-40518127946496258952009-10-26T07:58:00.002-04:002009-10-26T08:12:05.581-04:00

Friends, our penultimate Sunday together is All Saints Day, Nov. 1. It seems fitting that we should honor the great cloud of witnesses - and our ministry together - on the same day. It has been good to be here with you and I pray for your future with your next new minister. How exciting to be part of the mission & ministry of Second Pres!Yesterday's sermon is here.Next week's texts are:Isaiah

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-42989966109477643472009-10-23T15:43:00.002-04:002009-10-23T15:51:02.184-04:00

Friends, I was made aware today of the National Health Forum - an agency that is doing medical work in Pakistan aiding women who suffer from obstetric fistula. This is a vile condition that does all manner of harm - not just to a woman's physical health but her emotional well-being and that of her family. Will you consider giving? You can make your secure contributions at the National Health

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-74147539921559457592009-10-05T07:58:00.001-04:002009-10-07T07:46:26.325-04:00

I don't know if a better day could have been had yesterday. The sky was blue, the sun was shining, the breeze was soft and the crowd of the faithful congenial. Kudos to all who planned this family picnic at the Hermitage and blessings on all who were present. We welcomed a number of visitors yesterday - may God bless them doubly...it is brave to visit a church for the first time, braver still

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-56041553531493956522009-09-28T07:41:00.002-04:002009-09-28T07:52:21.653-04:00

It's next week! Also next week, worshiping at the Hermitage on a lovely (we pray) fall morning. I'm really looking forward to this and the picnic lunch after (boxed lunches provided). Please join us under the trees next Sunday @ 11:00.No sermon to publish, since we enjoyed a teleconference with our friends. I do have a link for you to follow and read, please, about planning and budgeting.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-54184695541462357402009-09-21T08:02:00.004-04:002009-09-21T08:10:22.825-04:00

Is tomorrow. The autumnal equinox, can you believe it? Where has the summer gone? Sounds like a song, doesn't it.Yesterday's sermon is here.Next week we're experimenting with web-based chat and hope to hear from our friends in East Asia. Hope you can attend to hear how they are laboring for the Lord in that far-off place. On Oct. 4th, we will worship outdoors at the Hermitage, weather

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-33584217375012084222009-09-14T08:03:00.002-04:002009-09-14T08:11:41.783-04:00

Yesterday's service was a joyful one for me. How good it was to see so many familiar faces and new ones, too. Our homecoming after the summer was energizing. Did you count the children on the chancel? There was barely enough room around the font for them all. My prayer is that we continue in the way we began, with smiles and energy, as we journey together in faith.The sermon is here.Texts for

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-81577228998434378652009-09-08T07:43:00.002-04:002009-09-08T07:55:41.061-04:00

Rally Day is September 13. This year we have a THEME: in addition to the official start of the Sunday School year (check the SS page here), we will enjoy one of Second's famous church potlucks to celebrate our reunion after a summer of vacation and travel. This year we are inviting you to bring an extra dish that can be frozen. We will deliver these to ForKids for families in transition from

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-84555413303292106582009-09-01T08:16:00.003-04:002009-09-01T08:20:58.875-04:00

A visitor is coming here in about 15 minutes and I'm behind the 8 ball. (Where did that expression come from?) So, briefly, here are the texts for the week. I promise to try and update later today!Isaiah 35:4-7Psalm 146James 2:1-10, 14-17Mark 7:24-37This haunting painting is by Ian Pollock, "The Syro-Phoenican's Daughter Cured."

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-8662068940281710412009-08-19T08:03:00.002-04:002009-08-19T08:28:18.050-04:00

Yep. Sorry about that! Late summer has always had a way about it - August especially goes much too quickly. I suspect it has something to do with retained memory of school and summer vacation. Each August morning turned to quickly into the next. Sigh...that's how I feel now.Here's last week's sermon.The texts for Aug. 23rd are:Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18 (this is one of my favorite texts: "as for

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-27867688219234083192009-08-10T08:21:00.002-04:002009-08-10T08:35:23.486-04:00

Yesterday's worship service was what? raucous? boisterous? joyous? Yep, all those things. Among other things, it was the culmination of VBS, so the VBS campers worshiped God in liturgical dance - a very energetic liturgical dance. By all accounts, VBS was a faithful weekend experience.The back to school ritual of late summer has begun. If you are out shopping this week, please remember to

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-79648598324092372782009-08-03T07:47:00.002-04:002009-08-03T08:15:04.827-04:00

Yesterday marked the beginning of our hearing of Jesus' discourse on the bread of life. Over the next two Sundays (Aug. 9 and 16) we will hear more of Jesus' remarkable teaching. Imagine, Jesus being nourishment, our sustenance, the fulfillment of every need. John's gospel pulls me deeply into conversation with the Spirit:me: Now, tell me, Holy One, how is it that Jesus feeds me?Holy Spirit:

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-3975140144393368812009-07-29T08:00:00.003-04:002009-07-29T08:03:13.360-04:00

The debate rages on all across the country. This non-partisan creed affirms a Christian perspective. From Sojourners magazine, who will forward the creed to your senators and representatives.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-87275061550442303252009-07-28T07:53:00.003-04:002009-07-28T08:01:33.386-04:00

I subscribe to (and even find time to read) The Christian Century Magazine, which bills itself as a journal for "faithful living, critical thinking." That it does, providing food for my thought. I enjoy especially the challenges many articles present to our common ethical behavior and how we, as Christians, might stand together as the body of Christ while maintaining our different theological

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-77135147300500234602009-07-27T07:43:00.004-04:002009-07-27T08:01:37.787-04:00

And yesterday's was lovely. Little Abigail - who behaved with mild interest throughout the sacrament - was as precious a child of God as I've ever seen. What a wonderful way to start the week - what love the Father gives.Yesterday's sermon is here, if you care to read it. Our church is experiencing a bit of...what? uncertainty? Yes, a bit, like most churches and organizations. When I read

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-17504147144831911312009-07-22T10:29:00.001-04:002009-07-22T10:29:49.897-04:00

The Alban Institute - 2007-03-19 The Stewardship of RiskShared via AddThis

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-40711240618197249822009-07-22T10:28:00.002-04:002009-07-27T07:43:10.769-04:00

Meant to say a word or two about this article last week. Now I will...read it! Even though it was written more than 2 years ago, this is a timely document and I commend it to your review.The Alban Institute - 2007-03-19 The Stewardship of RiskShared via AddThis

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-90695883277623363792009-07-20T08:13:00.002-04:002009-07-20T08:31:03.388-04:00

I am alone in the office this week, poor me! This is the vacation time of the year, and the church's Director of Congregational Ministries is doing his level best to recuperate, I mean, refresh, away from the office.In the meantime, we look forward to a baptism next Sunday! It is always a joy to welcome new brothers and sisters into Christ's fold. Please pray for all the about-to-be-baptized

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-60955153972192408832009-07-13T07:47:00.002-04:002009-07-13T08:01:53.187-04:00

Well, one visitor from our sister church Ndjilli III in the Congo. An entire delegation of Congolese will be visiting the presbytery, beginning Wednesday through the end of the month. It will be our pleasure to welcome our guest, worship with him, and share a potluck meal afterward.Yesterday was a good day. God called three new leaders in worship...Dave did an outstanding job explaining plumb

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-7000065269796645842009-07-06T07:50:00.002-04:002009-07-06T08:12:58.298-04:00

Friends, it was a good service again yesterday. So much energy went into singing "Faith of our Fathers" it was a joy to listen. Yesterday's sermon is here. After the service at least 3 people told me more "there are two kinds of people in this world" expressions. What fun. This week is a busy one around the church office as we prepare (always) for Sunday and all the ministries between now

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-62734678338338633882009-06-29T08:22:00.002-04:002009-06-29T08:36:58.121-04:00

Whew! I went a whole week without posting? Yep, and to those loyal followers I apologize. Here's the new resolve: to post by Tuesday noon! Have you memorized the mission statement yet? If not, here it is: In the name of Jesus Christ, we come together to worship God and by the power of the Holy Spirit we are sent to do God’s work in the world.This will be printed on every document the

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-88646469766716071052009-06-15T07:47:00.002-04:002009-06-15T07:57:37.680-04:00

The day is almost here...next Sunday, June 21 we will convene a congregational meeting to elect a Pastor Nominating Committee. Be on the look out in your email inboxes and snail mailboxes for further info from the nominating committee.In the meantime, yesterday's sermon is here. Texts for next Sunday are:Job 38:1-11 (where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?)Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-91002516361342195242009-06-09T09:04:00.002-04:002009-06-09T09:30:00.394-04:00

This coming Sunday we begin our walk down several paths:The "official" start date of summer at Second. Chiefly this means summer recess for Sunday School. Often it means a slow down in summer attendance, too, as people enjoy the leisure time they have been given.The last Sunday without a PNC. Yes, you read that right. We anticipate electing a PNC on June 21. We are all permitted a hearty "

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-39504639138579134792009-06-04T09:40:00.002-04:002009-06-04T09:53:29.049-04:00

How did it get to be Thursday without a post? The weeks are flying by, that's how. The church is galloping headlong into the final stretch of interim ministry. How long will it take? That's up to God. The Spirit counsels patience and a will for discernment. This is a very exciting time to be part of this faith community.For those of you who wish it, a copy of last week's sermon is here. (

KWnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-63284309083925423292009-05-26T07:43:00.002-04:002009-05-26T08:03:11.666-04:00

I can't help it...whenever I read the first line of what I call the Pentecost text, Acts 2:1-21, I think of Don McLean and his song American Pie. Judge for yourself:Acts 2:1: "...they were all together in one place."American Pie: "...there we were all in one place."See what I mean? On Pentecost Sunday, don't be too surprised if you hear me humming what has become my Pentecost song.On to more

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-70890007085710946172009-05-19T08:05:00.002-04:002009-05-19T08:22:24.768-04:00

What another great Sunday! The worship service seemed joyful and relaxed, the choir rocked the house with their anthem offering (was I crazy or were people moving to the music...nah, couldn't be!). The Mission Fair held during the fellowship was outstanding. We had 7 organizations represented: ForKids, The Dwelling Place, St. Columba Ecumenical Ministries, NEST, Park Place Child Life Center,

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-735533643086359032009-05-11T14:19:00.004-04:002009-05-11T16:17:38.785-04:00

By all accounts, yesterday's service was superb. I am grateful to all who led the worship of the people. Thank you. It should come as no surprise that we enjoy a depth of God's gifts in this place - I am happy we may call upon those gifts and use them to the glory of God.If our preacher yesterday grants permission, I will post his sermon here. Check back later.We are approaching the end of

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-59757624677351484772009-05-04T07:44:00.002-04:002009-05-04T08:13:11.734-04:00

Surely the sanctuary has never held so many sheep. It was great fun to celebrate "Sheep Sunday" with the addition of so many stuffed lambs and cotton ball sheep on clothes pin legs. We'll leave them out on display for a bit - at least one more Sunday, I hope.Yesterday's sermon is here. I enjoyed having Beloved Spouse participate. Many of our conversations at home are just like the one we "

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-62155740693214749492009-04-28T06:10:00.002-04:002009-04-28T06:39:24.105-04:00

Was asked a good question last week - why do we say the 3rd Sunday in Easter rather than the 3rd Sunday after Easter. Well...this is a church (the larger church, not just our local one) decision and tradition of some years' standing. Easter is a season of the liturgical year, celebrated for 50 days and culminating with the celebration of Pentecost (the "birth" of the church).There are ancient

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-25519191854280946472009-04-20T07:21:00.002-04:002009-04-20T07:36:02.112-04:00

already? Yes, just about. When one lives Sunday to Sunday - as I try to - one is always looking towards the next Lord's Day. So, with the 4th and final Sunday of April coming up...yep, it's the end of April.And the sun still isn't out every day! I had forgotten how fickle Tidewater weather can be. I do remember, from my teaching days, taking an end of the school year field trip out to

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-32487175562217754732009-04-13T07:45:00.002-04:002009-04-13T07:56:05.707-04:00

What a glorious Sunday it was - two baptisms and eight public professions of faith (our entire confirmation class). A very good day (and I got to put away the black cassock for 6 months!). The chancel was very crowded at one point - with the usual assortment of regulars - the musicians - and the confirmands, their mentors, and the human easel.Sunday's sermon is here.The texts for next week are:

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-14289172994552515742009-04-06T07:21:00.002-04:002009-04-06T07:52:47.266-04:00

The Palm Sunday service was joyful, wasn't it? We welcomed new visitors and old friends, waved palm branches, and sang Hosanna. The week ahead is a busy one for us, this is the week of weeks that leads up to the day of days. First things first: yesterday's sermon is here.It was pleasant to see the church's name in the paper, wasn't it? If you missed it (as I did - I don't have a chance to

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-55333502650092863142009-04-01T08:08:00.002-04:002009-04-01T08:24:11.566-04:00

Very light posting this week, as you've noticed. We will be following the Liturgy of the Palms this Sunday, the texts are:Isaiah 50:4-9aPsalm 118:1-2, 19-29Philippians 2:5-11Mark 11:1-11"L'entrée de Jésus à Jérusalem," Corinne Vonaesch

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-66016579418470179192009-03-24T07:08:00.002-04:002009-03-24T07:24:31.234-04:00

...one Sunday at a time. This Sunday, March 29, is the penultimate Sunday in the Lenten season. April 5th we celebrate the Liturgy of the Palms (some churches observe the Liturgy of the Passion). And then, Holy Week and the Three Day Feast (Triduum) - Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. Some churches - even Presbyterian ones! - observe an Easter Vigil, a worship service that begins with a

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-7256875970488320132009-03-16T08:23:00.003-04:002009-03-16T08:27:19.595-04:00

Rifling through the archives of "Presbyterians Today", an e-zine of our denomination, I came across this. The majority of our members nationwide did not grow up Presbyterian. It helps me, who has presbyterianism coded on my DNA, to know how to speak the lingo to non-natives. Election does have a completely different meaning - it is good to remember that.

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-81278035672789386742009-03-16T08:08:00.004-04:002009-03-16T08:28:33.809-04:00

Thinking of titles for these posts is getting more and more difficult. Thanks for bearing with me. Now, onto the other stuff. Yesterday's sermon is here. Next Sunday's texts are:Numbers 21:4-9Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22Ephesians 2:1-10John 3:14-21Hoping to have more to post - other than this bare bones info - right now, though, this is it. Big day ahead, session meeting, staff meeting, another

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-44878600565376139242009-03-09T16:38:00.000-04:002009-03-09T16:39:37.886-04:00

This is on-point.

KWnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-1176095489879261982009-03-09T10:13:00.001-04:002009-03-09T10:16:04.142-04:00

Read this! A thoughtful essay, written by Michael Jinkins, dean of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, explores the marks of heresy, then and now.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-38433790605786230212009-03-09T09:58:00.002-04:002009-03-09T10:11:31.702-04:00

I thought Sunday's service was fabulous! Even though the day began with an earlier than usual switch to daylight saving time and an hour less of sleep, the weather was gorgeous, confirmation class most enjoyable, the worship lively, and the trip to the zoo with "The Helpers" (our 3rd - 5th grade youth group) outstanding. I love church!Yesterday's sermon is here.The texts for next Sunday are:

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-46414853493532705092009-03-02T13:48:00.003-05:002009-03-02T14:58:40.743-05:00

Or, as we say in the "biz," Lent 2B ("B" representing year B in the lectionary cycle, when we hear from Mark's gospel).The inconveniences of maintaining two machines (yeah, I know, it's pathetic), is that invariably the document I need is living on a different computer than the one in front of me. Such is the state of affairs right now. I am in front of computer 1, yesterday's sermon lives on

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-25253277556266196052009-02-26T15:11:00.001-05:002009-02-26T15:12:22.206-05:00

The Ash Wednesday service was lovely. I love evening worship.The sermon is here.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-62139880969154266502009-02-23T15:20:00.002-05:002009-02-23T15:34:52.728-05:00

Yesterday's sermon is here. Each year we have the same opportunity to meditate on the life of MLK, Jr. This year was the first that really struck me. An abiding interest in the Christian mystics led me to consider Dr. King's life in a new way. His mountain top experience was a gift from God and his vision has been tested by the Spirit. What a treasure he shared with us.***********************

KWnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-77002527400117062009-02-23T14:47:00.002-05:002009-02-23T15:20:34.089-05:00

"Jesus walked this lonesome valley. He had to walk it by himself." This may be one of my favorite Lenten hymns, based on Jesus' 40 days and nights in the wilderness (see Matthew 4 and Luke 4). I figured it must be a favorite of a bunch of other folks, too - but try as I might, not even YouTube had a decent rendition. Too much organ and instrumental flourishes. This is a bluesy spiritual, for

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-19270299649224647482009-02-16T08:11:00.002-05:002009-02-16T08:28:32.169-05:00

It was a big day yesterday wasn't it? The annual meeting of the congregation was contained within the worship service and I think it went well. We heard reports from several organizations within the church and sang many hymns (each committee moderator chose a hymn befitting their work). The elementary school children sang as did our middle and high school class. We elected the 2009 nominating

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-40505356406101553282009-02-16T08:08:00.001-05:002009-02-16T08:11:05.213-05:00

The sermon from Feb. 1 is here.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-57456777137456846472009-02-11T10:32:00.002-05:002009-02-11T11:07:23.566-05:00

Whew! It's been a while since I've published here. You are owed a sermon link for Feb. 1 - later today, I promise. And, I will ask our guest preacher if she would like to publish her sermon from Feb. 8.I was on study leave last week, attending the Mid Winters lectures at Austin Presbyterian Seminary. The lecture series was fabulous. Tom Long delivered 3 talks on the "theodicy problem"- why

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-58665115572802521462009-01-27T07:42:00.002-05:002009-01-27T08:09:13.742-05:00

I am nuts about movies. Given a choice between myriad leisure activities, I will pick going to the movies every time. I go by myself, even, an oddity where I come from. But, I love the stories movies tell, how the story is guided by the director's vision and interpreted by the actors and cinematographer. When they all work together well, the story is compelling and it can even change you."The

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-7908218426944952702009-01-26T07:49:00.003-05:002009-01-26T18:35:03.105-05:00

Yesterday's sermon is here. I thought the service was fabulous yesterday - the choir's anthem was lively, upbeat, and it set the tone for the whole morning. Great!I am on an eblast list from the Alban Institute. Today's offering was an essay called "Who Locked the Gates," by Gary A. Shockley:"Over the years I have heard countless painful stories about how people new to a congregation couldn't

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-36424541770314310242009-01-19T07:31:00.002-05:002009-01-19T07:54:02.832-05:00

The short season of ordinary time began yesterday - we call it the season after Epiphany, Ordinary I, or the time between Christmas and Lent. (Or, with the weather the way it has been - the deepest coldest part of winter).As we wind our way to Lent, we follow the gospel. The texts we read each Sunday are chiefly about who Jesus is and how Jesus prepares for his ministry. This week Jesus

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-23617037470598246502009-01-15T15:29:00.002-05:002009-01-15T15:30:13.623-05:00

Remember Orson Bean? I do, too. And, he's written this (pretty funny & insightful) essay.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-15288272771561546922009-01-12T07:10:00.002-05:002009-01-12T07:33:49.899-05:00

From baptism to active discipleship - now that's the way we're supposed to go! The Larger Catechism of the Westminster Confession asks this question (and gives this answer):Question 167: How is our Baptism to be improved by us?Answer: The needful but much neglected duty of improving our Baptism, is to be performed by us all our life long, especially in the time of temptation, and when we are

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-50425847656868686002009-01-06T11:51:00.004-05:002009-01-09T07:40:17.549-05:00

Updadte alert: the sermon file has been found, last Sunday's message is here. I neglected to link to Thomas Lynch's most excellent book "The Undertaking: Life Studies from the Dismal Trade." There are many adventures to be had in life...too bad that one of them is dealing with computer issues! My trusty two year old laptop finally suffered one corrupted file too many and I was forced to slick

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-23646591068615138192008-12-29T16:47:00.003-05:002008-12-29T17:09:24.587-05:00

Such a week, last week! The two Christmas Eve services were lovely. The sanctuary looks grand lit by so many candles and the faces of so many friends just glow. Our family enjoyed a low-key Christmas, which was precisely what we needed. I hope your family was blessed in the same way.We have two Sundays in Christmas this year. We don't always - the whole Christmas season is only 12 days long

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-17930837448527207752008-12-22T07:39:00.003-05:002008-12-22T07:56:20.907-05:00

Yesterday's service was truly transformational, even if the banner fell down 2 minutes in to the sermon. No one was injured, thank goodness. The music was fitting and the congregation was in good voice. I especially was moved by the number of prayers offered up during the prayers of intercession.Yesterday's sermon is here. (Please imagine that there is a medium sized plain box on the table!)

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-49885663181360755312008-12-16T08:03:00.002-05:002008-12-16T08:12:48.475-05:00

No sermon to post for last Sunday...we worshiped at a service of lessons and carols. What a fine community of the faithful were gathered - it was good to see so many friends and welcome so many visitors. God is doing remarkable things here at Second Church.The texts for next week are:2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26Romans 16:25-27Luke 1:26-38Wednesday night we go caroling! Call the

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-76366316412992387212008-12-08T08:31:00.002-05:002008-12-08T08:42:20.878-05:00

Yesterday's service was fabulous, I think. We had visitors, regulars, and folks we haven't seen in a while. There is something about the Advent and Christmas season that calls people back to church. Let's pray it continues. God has blessed this church so richly and I am grateful.Yesterday's sermon is here. Mark is a fascinating gospel...so unlike Matthew and Luke in tone and voice, yet both

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-45429899516743457852008-12-01T07:52:00.003-05:002008-12-01T08:05:26.848-05:00

The sanctuary was "greened" Saturday morning by a large crowd of members and friends. What a good time...the youth of the church did much of the decorating with the lovely result that each decoration is unique. Truly a glorious sight.I will post the sermon here later this morning. For now, the texts for next week are:Isaiah 40:1-11Psalm 85:1-2, 8-132 Peter 3: 8-15aMark 1:1-8This is the

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-1070499588595567232008-11-17T15:16:00.003-05:002008-11-17T15:29:01.773-05:00

"I was sick and in prison," a painting by Duncan Long (http://www.biblical-art.com/L%5Clong-d%5Clong-d0175.jpg)Christ the King Sunday is next Sunday, November 23rd. The texts for the day are:Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24Psalm 100Ephesians 1:15-23Matthew 25:31-46This is the last Sunday in the liturgical year. The first Sunday of Advent is November 30, "year B" in the Revised Common Lectionary with

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-26557376981374828482008-11-11T07:42:00.005-05:002008-11-17T15:29:43.383-05:00

We are closing in on the end of the liturgical year - only two more Sundays before Advent begins and with it a renewed hope, planted by the Holy Spirit, that Christ's return will be soon and we have much to do in preparation.Stewardship Sunday went very well. In spite of economic turmoil and the rough patches of the last few weeks, we have come within shouting distance of last year. Alleluia!

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-10705535259855749912008-11-03T16:23:00.002-05:002008-11-03T16:32:37.762-05:00

We are gearing up for Consecration Sunday! If you haven't yet indicated whether or not you will be here for lunch Sunday, please do so. Call the church right this minute :)Texts for next Sunday (and the next few) follow Jesus on his final trip to Jerusalem. We take this journey with him as we prepare for Jesus to come again in glory. All will be reconciled to him. Alleluia.November 9:Amos 5:

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-17341918906462799782008-10-20T12:37:00.003-04:002008-10-21T14:33:47.484-04:00

Sunday's sermon is here. In the meantime:Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18Psalm 11 Thessalonians 2:1-8Matthew 22:34-46The baptism yesterday was fabulous, wasn't it? It was so good to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in such a gracious and loving way. The fellowship after worship was lovely and the youth group that met later in the afternoon...fabulous. What a wonderful place God has

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-85550300528567840052008-10-13T09:51:00.002-04:002008-10-13T09:56:37.909-04:00

The Alban Institute continues to provide the most pragmatic guidance on the formation of healthy churches and faithful congregations (by the power of the Holy Spirit, of course). This time of year many churches begin stewardship "campaigns" (like a war or election) or programs (akin to fundraising). What if we began to think of stewardship as a season of preparation towards becoming a church

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-1375408848622896972008-10-13T09:20:00.002-04:002008-10-13T09:51:04.823-04:00

Yesterday's sermon is here if you care to read it. Next Sunday we begin our season of stewardship. It promises to be an especially rewarding time spiritually. As we consider the gifts we shall make to Christ's church, please also pray for our mission and ministry. May God bless us with a powerful witness.Next week's scripture readings are:Isaiah 45:1-7Psalm 96:1-91 Thessalonians 1:1-10Matthew

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-21386765715701149832008-10-06T07:39:00.002-04:002008-10-06T07:55:06.763-04:00

Fabulous worship service yesterday - we ordained and installed 2 new elders to fulfill 2 unexpired terms, then we communed together, with our 2 newest elders assisting.Yesterday's sermon is here. The title of the sermon - "Againstness" is a word coined by Robert Farrar Capon, whose book "Kingdom, Grace, Judgment," is a resource I regularly consult when preaching the parables.Considering the

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-67125713528765209412008-10-01T08:39:00.002-04:002008-10-01T08:41:54.341-04:00

I had to email my statement of faith to the Presbytery today - it is a common practice to publish the statements of all the minister-members. If you are interested, mine is here.

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-51576217689215365482008-09-30T08:03:00.005-04:002008-09-30T10:59:27.917-04:00

What is past:Sunday's sermon is here, if you are interested.Here's a link to the U.S. Congregational Life Survey - it describes the purpose of the survey, has lists of free, downloadable resources, and inexpensive publications that we all might find useful. I am adding a link to this site in the list to the right of this post. Of intriguing interest: Myths and Facts about Evangelism and Church

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-61963234508518908862008-09-22T07:58:00.002-04:002008-09-22T08:05:49.689-04:00

Hurricanes Gustav and Ike wreaked chaos on the Gulf coast. There are gaping needs in the communities affected in Louisiana and Texas. Little things like toothbrushes and washcloths can make a huge difference to people living in the aftermath. Bigger things like buckets and cleaning products help people rebuild. The grace God gives us in such abundance empowers us to give abundantly. These

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-56564043093413447702008-09-22T07:35:00.002-04:002008-09-22T07:58:39.394-04:00

No sermon to upload this week - we were ably served in the pulpit by a guest preacher (who is a daughter of this church). It is good (for those of us of a certain age, especially) to hear the word of God proclaimed by a young woman, there is a sense of urgency that we may miss otherwise.Texts for next week are:Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32Psalm 25:1-9Philippians 2:1-13Matthew 21:28-32Wednesday night R&R

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-35436784855342996632008-09-15T16:09:00.004-04:002008-09-19T11:42:16.269-04:00

-----sermon is here-----The home network is down...the painters are in Tech Central, all is in disarray...which is to say that yesterday's sermon will not be posted until later this week. (It lives on my home machine and it is far too complex for me to retrieve just now)Next week we have a guest preacher - a daughter of this church and a missionary to Asia home on leave. It will be good to hear

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-9702628292541161192008-09-09T07:47:00.002-04:002008-09-09T08:50:42.362-04:00

An African Mafa imageSunday's sermon is here.Rally Day was splendid...photos of the day have been kindly shared - check the comment in the post just below and follow the link. Thanks to the photographer!Readings for next week: Genesis 50:15-21Psalm 103:8-13Romans 14:1-12Matthew 18:21-35Beginning Sunday, September 14 we will be affirming our faith

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-83969587830089871612008-09-02T07:39:00.003-04:002008-09-02T07:44:38.192-04:00

Hurricane Gustav is doing its damage. Hanna, Ike, and possibly Josephine are on their way. Want to help in a material way? Give to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Salvation Army, Church World Service, or the organization of your choice.Oh, and pray, too.

KWnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-20118881869883922372008-09-02T07:30:00.003-04:002008-09-02T07:38:58.550-04:00

Sunday's sermon is here for those who wish to read it. Didn't the sanctuary look fabulous? New carpeting and upholstery - and next week news robes for the choir. Our cup overflows...Rally Day is coming, Rally Day is coming! We kick-off the Sunday School Year with a brand new curriculum for pre-K through High School; adult classes resume the Creation to Revelation story (on the 7th Marie

KWnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-887299029764940176.post-3259365173042436872008-08-26T13:52:00.001-04:002008-08-26T13:57:44.681-04:00

KWnoreply@blogger.com0