First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley: Recent Episodes
First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley
Recorded live on Sunday, November 23, 2025—Our sermon series concludes with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell, Rev. Drew Paton, Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga, and Dave Carranza leading us through the liturgical year with “The God Who Reigns”
Recorded live on Sunday, November 9, 2025—Our sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “The God Who Restores”
Recorded live on Sunday, November 2, 2025—Our sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “The God Who Shows Up”
Recorded live on Sunday, October 26, 2025—Our sermon series continues with Dr. Honoré Bunduki preaching “The God Who Cares and Speaks”
Recorded live on Sunday, October 19, 2025—Our sermon series continues with Tori Bommarito preaching “The God Who Replies”
Recorded live on Sunday, October 12, 2025—Our sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “The God Whose Heart Breaks”
Recorded live on Sunday, October 5, 2025—The Rev. Laura Mariko Cheifetz preached for our multi-church worship service this week with the message “Community Takes Work, Actually”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 28, 2025—Our new sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell framing the journey for James Parrish Smith and a wealth of musical talents to lead us toward “The God Who Rejoices”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 21, 2025—Our new sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “The God Who Compromises”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 14, 2025—Our new sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “The God Who Gets Into It”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 7, 2025—Our new sermon series begins with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “The God Who Builds”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 31, 2025—Our lectionary series concludes with the Rev. Tom Elson preaching “Not Enough Books” in his final sermon as a parish associate here at First Pres.
Recorded live on Sunday, August 24, 2025—Our lectionary series continues with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “Rest, Resist, Restore”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 17, 2025—Our lectionary series continues with the Rev. Drew Paton preaching “Choosing Our Battles”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 10, 2025—Our lectionary series continues with the Rev. Jeff Chu preaching “Strangers and Foreigners on the Earth”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 3, 2025—Our lectionary series continues with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “Tending the Gates”
Recorded live on Sunday, July 27, 2025—Our lectionary series continues with Rick Leong preaching “Routine and Rhythm”
Recorded live on Sunday, July 20, 2025—Our lectionary series continues with the Rev. Drew Paton preaching “Biblical Models for Protest”
Recorded live on Sunday, July 13, 2025—Our lectionary series continues with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “Hidden in Plain Sight”
Recorded live on Sunday, July 6, 2025—Our lectionary series opens with the Rev. Tom Elson preaching “Do Good”
Recorded live on Sunday, June 29, 2025—Our sermon series concludes with the Rev. Mark Stryker preaching “Foolish Wisdom”
Recorded live on Sunday, June 22, 2025—Our sermon series continues with the Rev. Drew Paton preaching “Outside In”
Recorded live on Sunday, June 15, 2025—Our sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Weak Strength”
Recorded live on Sunday, June 8, 2025—Our sermon series continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Servant Leader”
Recorded live on Sunday, June 1, 2025—Our next sermon series begins this morning with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “Small Greatness”
Recorded live on Sunday, May 25, 2025—Our sermon series concludes this morning with the Rev. Mark Stryker preaching “Relentless Light”
Recorded live on Sunday, May 18, 2025—Our sermon series continues this morning with the Rev. Aeryn Seto Johnson preaching “Relentless Healing”
Recorded live on Sunday, May 11, 2025—Our sermon series continues this morning with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Relentless Faith”
Recorded live on Sunday, May 4, 2025—Our sermon series continues this morning with the Rev. Drew Paton framing the statements of Owen Gonzales, Caitlyn Wang, and Sarah Feng toward “Relentless Peace”
Recorded live on Sunday, April 27, 2025—Our next sermon series began this morning with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell’s introduction to the stories of Jean Veltema, Mindy Creson, and Malu Carranza and their experiences with “Relentless Resurrection”
Recorded live on Sunday, April 20, 2025—Our sermon series concludes this Easter morning with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Parable of the Ones Who Walked”
Recorded live on Sunday, April 13, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell, Rev. Drew Paton, and Rev. Mark Stryker enacting “Parable of the Prodigal Son”
Recorded live on Sunday, April 6, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Tom Elson preaching “Parable of the Pharisee & Tax Collector”
Recorded live on Sunday, March 30, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Parable of the Good Samaritan”
Recorded live on Sunday, March 25, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Barbara Brown Taylor preaching “Parables of the Mustard Seed, Hidden Pearl, and Nets”
Recorded live on Sunday, March 16, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard”
Recorded live on Sunday, March 09, 2025—Our next sermon series begins this week with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Parable of the Lost Sheep”
Recorded live on Sunday, March 02, 2025—Our sermon series concludes this week with the Rev. Drew Paton preaching “Anatomy of Sin: Anger”
Recorded live on Sunday, February 23, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Dr. William Yoo preaching “Anatomy of Sin: Pride—On Earth as It Is in Heaven”
Recorded live on Sunday, February 16, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Jessica Vaughan Lower preaching “Anatomy of Sin: Gluttony”
Recorded live on Sunday, February 9, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Mark Stryker preaching “Anatomy of Sin: Sloth”
Recorded live on Sunday, February 2, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Anatomy of Sin: Lust”
Recorded live on Sunday, January 26, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “Anatomy of Sin: Envy”
Recorded live on Sunday, January 19, 2025—Our sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Amos Disasa preaching “Anatomy of Sin: Greed—There Is No Frisland”
Recorded live on Sunday, January 12, 2025—Our new sermon series, The Anatomy of Sin, begins with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching, “What’s So Deadly About Sin?”
Recorded live on Sunday, January 5, 2025—Our Advent sermon series concludes this week with the Rev. Jeff Chu preaching “…You Follow”
Recorded live on Sunday, December 29, 2024—Our Advent sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Tom Elson preaching “…You Come Home”
Recorded live on Sunday, December 22, 2024—Our Advent sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Mark Stryker preaching “…You RUN!”
Recorded live on Sunday, December 15, 2024—Our Advent sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Drew Paton preaching “…You Stick Around”
Recorded live on Sunday, December 8, 2024—Our Advent sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “…You Fact-Check”
Recorded live on Sunday, December 1, 2024—Our Advent sermon series continues this week with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “…You Shut Up”
Recorded live on Sunday, November 24, 2024—Our new sermon series, When Angels Speak… began this Christ the King Sunday by singing through the liturgical year, because when angels speak “…You Sing”
Recorded live on Sunday, November 10, 2024—The Rev. Terry Dwyer preaches “A Feast of Salvation: God’s Victory over Death”
Recorded live on Sunday, November 3, 2024—The Rev. Dr. Jana Childers preaches “Fencing the Table”
Recorded live on Sunday, October 27, 2024—Our sermon series, Struck by Awe, continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “Lift Up Your Eyes”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 29, 2024—Our sermon series Struck By Awe continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “The Wolf and the Lamb”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 22, 2024—Our sermon series Struck By Awe continues with James Parrish Smith leading us through a musical sermon as we move “From Sighing to Singing”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 15, 2024—Our sermon series Struck By Awe continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching “E Pluribus Unum”
Recorded live on Sunday, September 8, 2024—Our new sermon series, Struck By Awe, begins with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell asking “What’s So Amazing About Awe?”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 25, 2024—Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, concludes with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “Homecomings”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 25, 2024
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, continues with the Rev. Tom Elson preaching “Complete Armor”
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, continues with the Rev. Drew Paton preaching “Fall Back in Love”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 18, 2024
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, continues with the Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching “A House Divided”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 11, 2024
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, continues with the Rev. Peter Choi preaching “The God Who Cooks”
Recorded live on Sunday, August 4, 2024
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, continues with the Rev. Mark Stryker preaching “What’s so Strange About Jesus?” Recorded live on Sunday, July 28, 2024.
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, continues with the Rev. Tom Elson preaching “Problem Solved.” Recorded live on Sunday, July 21, 2024.
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, continues with the Rev. Drew Paton preaching on “Reset.” Recorded live on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
Our sermon series, Extraordinary Texts for Ordinary Times, opens with the Rev. Mark Stryker preaching on “The Blind and the Lame.” Recorded live on Sunday, July 7, 2024.
Our sermon series, The Beloved Community, concludes with Ralph Anderson preaching on “How Shall We Overcome.” Recorded live on Sunday, June 30, 2024.
Our sermon series, The Beloved Community, continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching on “Curse Not.” Recorded live on Sunday, June 23, 2024.
Our sermon series, The Beloved Community, continues with the Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaching on “Hold Fast.”
Our sermon series, The Beloved Community, continues with the Rev. Mark Stryker preaching on “We Who Are Many.”
Dave Carranza opens our new sermon series, The Beloved Community, preaching on “The Power to Transform.”
Our sermon series From Corner to Corner concludes with Rev. Jeff Chu preaching on “Beautiful Messengers.”
Our sermon series From Corner to Corner continues with Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell asking “Can I Get a Witness?”
Our sermon series From Corner to Corner continues with Rev. Debbie Whaley returning to preach on “A Legacy of Love”.
Our sermon series From Corner to Corner continues with Rosemarie Eichner-Raja leading us through parables about the Kingdom of Heaven alongside our Tiny Theologians.
Our sermon series From Corner to Corner continues with Kaylee Morgan and Rev. Drew Paton preaching on “The Long Haul” for University Sunday.
Our sermon series From Corner to Corner continues through Confirmation with Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaching on Esther.
Rev. David Vásquez-Levy opens our new sermon series, From Corner to Corner, with Sustainable Margins.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell concludes our Lenten sermon series, Questions Jesus Asked, with “Why are you weeping? Who is it you are looking for?”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell continues Questions Jesus Asked with “Who do you say that I am?”
Rev. Drew Paton continues Questions Jesus Asked with “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell continues Questions Jesus Asked with “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell continues Questions Jesus Asked with “What is the kingdom of God like?”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell opens our new sermon series, Questions Jesus Asked, with “What is your name?”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell asks and answers, “Do I have to go to church to be a Christian?”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell discusses the question “Do I Belong?” with Lenny Gustavson and Olivia Fry.
Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga addresses the question “Child, why have you treated us like this?“
Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga answers “Where Is the Child Who Has Been Born King of the Jews?”
Rev. Mark Stryker on Elizabeth’s question “Why Has This Happened to Me, That the Mother of My Lord Comes to Me?”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on the question “How Will I Know That This Is So?”
Rev. Dr. William Yoo preaches on what it is “To Hunger and Thirst for Justice and Righteousness”
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on Sending the Twelve, and John Yoo speaks to being Sent.
Guest preacher Rev. Dr. Mark Labberton preaches on what it means To See and Be Seen on our Heritage Sunday.
One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.Psalm 145:4
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and look to the future with hope.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to, and about, our Tiny Theologians.
One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.Psalm 145:4
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and look to the future with hope.
Tori Bommarito suggests we Stay for the Bread on this year’s Seminarian Sunday.
One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.Psalm 145:4
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and look to the future with hope.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches this Easter Sunday.
Isolated and abandoned. Hungry and thirsty. Vulnerable and alone.
Most of us spend our entire lives avoiding these very things. Instead, we surround ourselves with people, stock our refrigerators, and make sure we are always in the know. And yet, it is these uncomfortable experiences that are trademarks of the hallowed space we know in Scripture and in life as the wilderness.
While the concept of wilderness often evokes images of desert plains and physical suffering, it can also be found in the busiest of cities and endured within our minds and souls. No matter where or how we enter into this desolate place, there is no denying the fact that the wilderness has the strange and sacred power of drawing us closer to God and encountering the divine in ways we never would have expected.
So this Lent, instead of avoiding the divine desert, we are going to embrace it. We are going to trace the dusty steps of those who walked in the desert, those who hid in the mountains, those who felt invisible. And in those painful and scary places, we are going to trust that while we may feel lost and alone, God will find us wherever we might be.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Facing Our Fear of… Not Having Enough.
Isolated and abandoned. Hungry and thirsty. Vulnerable and alone.
Most of us spend our entire lives avoiding these very things. Instead, we surround ourselves with people, stock our refrigerators, and make sure we are always in the know. And yet, it is these uncomfortable experiences that are trademarks of the hallowed space we know in Scripture and in life as the wilderness.
While the concept of wilderness often evokes images of desert plains and physical suffering, it can also be found in the busiest of cities and endured within our minds and souls. No matter where or how we enter into this desolate place, there is no denying the fact that the wilderness has the strange and sacred power of drawing us closer to God and encountering the divine in ways we never would have expected.
So this Lent, instead of avoiding the divine desert, we are going to embrace it. We are going to trace the dusty steps of those who walked in the desert, those who hid in the mountains, those who felt invisible. And in those painful and scary places, we are going to trust that while we may feel lost and alone, God will find us wherever we might be.
Rev. Mark Stryker preaches to Facing Our Fear of… Pain.
Isolated and abandoned. Hungry and thirsty. Vulnerable and alone.
Most of us spend our entire lives avoiding these very things. Instead, we surround ourselves with people, stock our refrigerators, and make sure we are always in the know. And yet, it is these uncomfortable experiences that are trademarks of the hallowed space we know in Scripture and in life as the wilderness.
While the concept of wilderness often evokes images of desert plains and physical suffering, it can also be found in the busiest of cities and endured within our minds and souls. No matter where or how we enter into this desolate place, there is no denying the fact that the wilderness has the strange and sacred power of drawing us closer to God and encountering the divine in ways we never would have expected.
So this Lent, instead of avoiding the divine desert, we are going to embrace it. We are going to trace the dusty steps of those who walked in the desert, those who hid in the mountains, those who felt invisible. And in those painful and scary places, we are going to trust that while we may feel lost and alone, God will find us wherever we might be.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Facing Our Fear of… Silence.
Isolated and abandoned. Hungry and thirsty. Vulnerable and alone.
Most of us spend our entire lives avoiding these very things. Instead, we surround ourselves with people, stock our refrigerators, and make sure we are always in the know. And yet, it is these uncomfortable experiences that are trademarks of the hallowed space we know in Scripture and in life as the wilderness.
While the concept of wilderness often evokes images of desert plains and physical suffering, it can also be found in the busiest of cities and endured within our minds and souls. No matter where or how we enter into this desolate place, there is no denying the fact that the wilderness has the strange and sacred power of drawing us closer to God and encountering the divine in ways we never would have expected.
So this Lent, instead of avoiding the divine desert, we are going to embrace it. We are going to trace the dusty steps of those who walked in the desert, those who hid in the mountains, those who felt invisible. And in those painful and scary places, we are going to trust that while we may feel lost and alone, God will find us wherever we might be.
Rev. Tom Elson preaches to Facing Our Fear of… Powerlessness.
Isolated and abandoned. Hungry and thirsty. Vulnerable and alone.
Most of us spend our entire lives avoiding these very things. Instead, we surround ourselves with people, stock our refrigerators, and make sure we are always in the know. And yet, it is these uncomfortable experiences that are trademarks of the hallowed space we know in Scripture and in life as the wilderness.
While the concept of wilderness often evokes images of desert plains and physical suffering, it can also be found in the busiest of cities and endured within our minds and souls. No matter where or how we enter into this desolate place, there is no denying the fact that the wilderness has the strange and sacred power of drawing us closer to God and encountering the divine in ways we never would have expected.
So this Lent, instead of avoiding the divine desert, we are going to embrace it. We are going to trace the dusty steps of those who walked in the desert, those who hid in the mountains, those who felt invisible. And in those painful and scary places, we are going to trust that while we may feel lost and alone, God will find us wherever we might be.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Facing Our Fear of… Being Invisible.
Isolated and abandoned. Hungry and thirsty. Vulnerable and alone.
Most of us spend our entire lives avoiding these very things. Instead, we surround ourselves with people, stock our refrigerators, and make sure we are always in the know. And yet, it is these uncomfortable experiences that are trademarks of the hallowed space we know in Scripture and in life as the wilderness.
While the concept of wilderness often evokes images of desert plains and physical suffering, it can also be found in the busiest of cities and endured within our minds and souls. No matter where or how we enter into this desolate place, there is no denying the fact that the wilderness has the strange and sacred power of drawing us closer to God and encountering the divine in ways we never would have expected.
So this Lent, instead of avoiding the divine desert, we are going to embrace it. We are going to trace the dusty steps of those who walked in the desert, those who hid in the mountains, those who felt invisible. And in those painful and scary places, we are going to trust that while we may feel lost and alone, God will find us wherever we might be.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Facing Our Fear of… the Unknown.
Isolated and abandoned. Hungry and thirsty. Vulnerable and alone.
Most of us spend our entire lives avoiding these very things. Instead, we surround ourselves with people, stock our refrigerators, and make sure we are always in the know. And yet, it is these uncomfortable experiences that are trademarks of the hallowed space we know in Scripture and in life as the wilderness.
While the concept of wilderness often evokes images of desert plains and physical suffering, it can also be found in the busiest of cities and endured within our minds and souls. No matter where or how we enter into this desolate place, there is no denying the fact that the wilderness has the strange and sacred power of drawing us closer to God and encountering the divine in ways we never would have expected.
So this Lent, instead of avoiding the divine desert, we are going to embrace it. We are going to trace the dusty steps of those who walked in the desert, those who hid in the mountains, those who felt invisible. And in those painful and scary places, we are going to trust that while we may feel lost and alone, God will find us wherever we might be.
Rev. David Vásquez-Levy preaches on Relevant Leadership: Esther.
The last thing anyone wants to be called is “ordinary.” We think being “ordinary” means not being special or making a difference…yet Scripture begs to differ. From the Old Testament to the New, God uses ordinary individuals in ordinary circumstances in ordinary places to do the extraordinary.
Join us in worship this winter as we delve into the sacred Ministry of the Ordinary—where we are all called to serve God through our everyday actions and interactions. Together we will listen to the stories of ordinary faithfulness found in the Bible as well as from members of our own community.
Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaches Raising Up Our Youth: Hannah and Eli.
The last thing anyone wants to be called is “ordinary.” We think being “ordinary” means not being special or making a difference…yet Scripture begs to differ. From the Old Testament to the New, God uses ordinary individuals in ordinary circumstances in ordinary places to do the extraordinary.
Join us in worship this winter as we delve into the sacred Ministry of the Ordinary—where we are all called to serve God through our everyday actions and interactions. Together we will listen to the stories of ordinary faithfulness found in the Bible as well as from members of our own community.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches Everyday Evangelism: Zacchaeus.
The last thing anyone wants to be called is “ordinary.” We think being “ordinary” means not being special or making a difference…yet Scripture begs to differ. From the Old Testament to the New, God uses ordinary individuals in ordinary circumstances in ordinary places to do the extraordinary.
Join us in worship this winter as we delve into the sacred Ministry of the Ordinary—where we are all called to serve God through our everyday actions and interactions. Together we will listen to the stories of ordinary faithfulness found in the Bible as well as from members of our own community.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Loving On Empty: The Widow at Zarephath.
The last thing anyone wants to be called is “ordinary.” We think being “ordinary” means not being special or making a difference…yet Scripture begs to differ. From the Old Testament to the New, God uses ordinary individuals in ordinary circumstances in ordinary places to do the extraordinary.
Join us in worship this winter as we delve into the sacred Ministry of the Ordinary—where we are all called to serve God through our everyday actions and interactions. Together we will listen to the stories of ordinary faithfulness found in the Bible as well as from members of our own community.
Rev. Kamal Hassan preaches on The Fierce Urgency of Now.
The last thing anyone wants to be called is “ordinary.” We think being “ordinary” means not being special or making a difference…yet Scripture begs to differ. From the Old Testament to the New, God uses ordinary individuals in ordinary circumstances in ordinary places to do the extraordinary.
Join us in worship this winter as we delve into the sacred Ministry of the Ordinary—where we are all called to serve God through our everyday actions and interactions. Together we will listen to the stories of ordinary faithfulness found in the Bible as well as from members of our own community.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on Local Advocacy: Shiphrah & Puah.
The last thing anyone wants to be called is “ordinary.” We think being “ordinary” means not being special or making a difference…yet Scripture begs to differ. From the Old Testament to the New, God uses ordinary individuals in ordinary circumstances in ordinary places to do the extraordinary.
Join us in worship this winter as we delve into the sacred Ministry of the Ordinary—where we are all called to serve God through our everyday actions and interactions. Together we will listen to the stories of ordinary faithfulness found in the Bible as well as from members of our own community.
Rev. Mark Stryker preaches on the Bright and Morning Star.
Names matter. From the day we are born, we are given a name to respond to, a name for our loved ones to call on, a name to identify ourselves. Which begs the question: What’s in a name?
Scripture tells us that there is one in history who has the name that is above every name: Jesus. In Advent, we have the sacred opportunity to anticipate and celebrate the birth of Jesus. But who is this child? What’s in his name?
Join us in worship as we journey through the seven prayers—the O Antiphons—of Advent. Drawing on biblical visions of creation, redemption, and restoration, these prayers evoke seven names for Jesus: King of Nations, Wisdom, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Lord of Might, Emmanuel, and Bright & Morning Star.
In learning and calling upon these names, our hope is to more deeply know this Messiah we long for, the one we have been waiting for, the one who is coming soon.
Rosemarie Eichner-Raja brings us into the story of Christmas with the arrival of Jesus in our world.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on Emmanuel.
Names matter. From the day we are born, we are given a name to respond to, a name for our loved ones to call on, a name to identify ourselves. Which begs the question: What’s in a name?
Scripture tells us that there is one in history who has the name that is above every name: Jesus. In Advent, we have the sacred opportunity to anticipate and celebrate the birth of Jesus. But who is this child? What’s in his name?
Join us in worship as we journey through the seven prayers—the O Antiphons—of Advent. Drawing on biblical visions of creation, redemption, and restoration, these prayers evoke seven names for Jesus: King of Nations, Wisdom, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Lord of Might, Emmanuel, and Bright & Morning Star.
In learning and calling upon these names, our hope is to more deeply know this Messiah we long for, the one we have been waiting for, the one who is coming soon.
Rev. Tom Elson preaches on the Lord of Might.
Names matter. From the day we are born, we are given a name to respond to, a name for our loved ones to call on, a name to identify ourselves. Which begs the question: What’s in a name?
Scripture tells us that there is one in history who has the name that is above every name: Jesus. In Advent, we have the sacred opportunity to anticipate and celebrate the birth of Jesus. But who is this child? What’s in his name?
Join us in worship as we journey through the seven prayers—the O Antiphons—of Advent. Drawing on biblical visions of creation, redemption, and restoration, these prayers evoke seven names for Jesus: King of Nations, Wisdom, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Lord of Might, Emmanuel, and Bright & Morning Star.
In learning and calling upon these names, our hope is to more deeply know this Messiah we long for, the one we have been waiting for, the one who is coming soon.
Rev. Mark Stryker preaches on the Key of David.
Names matter. From the day we are born, we are given a name to respond to, a name for our loved ones to call on, a name to identify ourselves. Which begs the question: What’s in a name?
Scripture tells us that there is one in history who has the name that is above every name: Jesus. In Advent, we have the sacred opportunity to anticipate and celebrate the birth of Jesus. But who is this child? What’s in his name?
Join us in worship as we journey through the seven prayers—the O Antiphons—of Advent. Drawing on biblical visions of creation, redemption, and restoration, these prayers evoke seven names for Jesus: King of Nations, Wisdom, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Lord of Might, Emmanuel, and Bright & Morning Star.
In learning and calling upon these names, our hope is to more deeply know this Messiah we long for, the one we have been waiting for, the one who is coming soon.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on the Root of Jesse (and Christmas movies).
Names matter. From the day we are born, we are given a name to respond to, a name for our loved ones to call on, a name to identify ourselves. Which begs the question: What’s in a name?
Scripture tells us that there is one in history who has the name that is above every name: Jesus. In Advent, we have the sacred opportunity to anticipate and celebrate the birth of Jesus. But who is this child? What’s in his name?
Join us in worship as we journey through the seven prayers—the O Antiphons—of Advent. Drawing on biblical visions of creation, redemption, and restoration, these prayers evoke seven names for Jesus: King of Nations, Wisdom, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Lord of Might, Emmanuel, and Bright & Morning Star.
In learning and calling upon these names, our hope is to more deeply know this Messiah we long for, the one we have been waiting for, the one who is coming soon.
Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaches on Wisdom. Names matter. From the day we are born, we are given a name to respond to, a name for our loved ones to call on, a name to identify ourselves. Which begs the question: What’s in a name? Scripture tells us that there is one in history who has the name that is above every name: Jesus. In Advent, we have the sacred opportunity to anticipate and celebrate the birth of Jesus. But who is this child? What’s in his name? Join us in worship as we journey through the seven prayers—the O Antiphons—of Advent. Drawing on biblical visions of creation, redemption, and restoration, these prayers evoke seven names for Jesus: King of Nations, Wisdom, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Lord of Might, Emmanuel, and Bright & Morning Star. In learning and calling upon these names, our hope is to more deeply know this Messiah we long for, the one we have been waiting for, the one who is coming soon.
Rev. Charlene Powell preaches on the King of Nations. Names matter. From the day we are born, we are given a name to respond to, a name for our loved ones to call on, a name to identify ourselves. Which begs the question: What’s in a name? Scripture tells us that there is one in history who has the name that is above every name: Jesus. In Advent, we have the sacred opportunity to anticipate and celebrate the birth of Jesus. But who is this child? What’s in his name? Join us in worship as we journey through the seven prayers—the O Antiphons—of Advent. Drawing on biblical visions of creation, redemption, and restoration, these prayers evoke seven names for Jesus: King of Nations, Wisdom, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Lord of Might, Emmanuel, and Bright & Morning Star. In learning and calling upon these names, our hope is to more deeply know this Messiah we long for, the one we have been waiting for, the one who is coming soon.
Rev. Mark Stryker, James Parrish Smith, and Grace So share their experiences of belonging and not belonging.
As human beings, much of life comes down to two basic questions: 1) Where do I belong in the world? 2) How do I make a difference in the world? As people of faith, these questions find their answers in the concept of stewardship. We belong to God, And we are called to make a difference by being faithful stewards with all that God has given us from community to creation, time to talent, riches and even rest.
Join us as we talk about the ancient spiritual discipline of stewardship through the lens of belonging. Together we will explore where and with whom we get our sense of belonging and how this shapes what we should do with our belongings.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Restore.
As human beings, much of life comes down to two basic questions: 1) Where do I belong in the world? 2) How do I make a difference in the world? As people of faith, these questions find their answers in the concept of stewardship. We belong to God, And we are called to make a difference by being faithful stewards with all that God has given us from community to creation, time to talent, riches and even rest.
Join us as we talk about the ancient spiritual discipline of stewardship through the lens of belonging. Together we will explore where and with whom we get our sense of belonging and how this shapes what we should do with our belongings.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Reimagine.
As human beings, much of life comes down to two basic questions: 1) Where do I belong in the world? 2) How do I make a difference in the world? As people of faith, these questions find their answers in the concept of stewardship. We belong to God, And we are called to make a difference by being faithful stewards with all that God has given us from community to creation, time to talent, riches and even rest.
Join us as we talk about the ancient spiritual discipline of stewardship through the lens of belonging. Together we will explore where and with whom we get our sense of belonging and how this shapes what we should do with our belongings.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Release.
As human beings, much of life comes down to two basic questions: 1) Where do I belong in the world? 2) How do I make a difference in the world? As people of faith, these questions find their answers in the concept of stewardship. We belong to God, And we are called to make a difference by being faithful stewards with all that God has given us from community to creation, time to talent, riches and even rest.
Join us as we talk about the ancient spiritual discipline of stewardship through the lens of belonging. Together we will explore where and with whom we get our sense of belonging and how this shapes what we should do with our belongings.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches to Remember.
As human beings, much of life comes down to two basic questions: 1) Where do I belong in the world? 2) How do I make a difference in the world? As people of faith, these questions find their answers in the concept of stewardship. We belong to God, And we are called to make a difference by being faithful stewards with all that God has given us from community to creation, time to talent, riches and even rest.
Join us as we talk about the ancient spiritual discipline of stewardship through the lens of belonging. Together we will explore where and with whom we get our sense of belonging and how this shapes what we should do with our belongings.
Rev. Tom Elson preaches on The Meaning of Wisdom.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Danielle Parish preaches The Meaning of Creation for World Communion Sunday.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches The Meaning of Relationship.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches The Meaning of Relationship.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches The Meaning of Success.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches The Meaning of Success.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches The Meaning of Time.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches The Meaning of Time.
Since the beginning of time, humanity has pondered the question, “What is the meaning of life?” Especially in times of great upheaval and change, we come back to these philosophical questions to give us direction, purpose, and stability. But what does the Bible have to say about such earthly matters? Quite a lot!
Join us this fall as we begin a new program year in the book of Ecclesiastes. Together, we will explore the refreshingly blunt, surprisingly realistic, and brutally honest reflections about life contained in this Old Testament book and maybe even find some practical answers to our most pressing questions.
Rev. Jake Medcalf preaches Remember Who You Are
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Jake Medcalf preaches Remember Who You Are
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Mark Stryker preaches Something's Burning!
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Tom Elson suggests you Watch Out!
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Tori Bommarito preaches on A New Guest List: Hospitality in the Way of Jesus.
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Dr. Riana Shaw Robinson preaches on A Distant Hope.
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Mark Stryker asks Does God Give Up?
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Tom Elson preaches on Living One's Life Christianly.
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Dr. Jana Childers preaches on The Better Part.
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Terry Dwyer preaches on Treasures in Jars of Clay.
Every year after Pentecost, the church moves into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—the liminal space between Advent and Easter/Lent—yet this season is anything but ordinary. As we venture out into exciting unknowns, we will be resting in the time honored tradition of preaching the lectionary. Originating in the time of Moses, the lectionary offers the church a rich and complete picture of Scripture by appointing texts from both the Old and New Testaments and the Psalms. Join us in worship this summer as we journey through the extraordinary wisdom and truth offered to us in the Bible for these anything but ordinary times.
Rev. Tom Elson preaches on Sacraments.
As Presbyterians, we affirm that we are the “church reformed, always reforming”. But what exactly does that mean? At its core, we believe that God is not finished with us yet, a belief that undergirds every aspect of our worship service. Join us for our summer sermon series as we explore the scriptural foundation of Reformed worship. It will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Sunday mornings at First Pres!
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on The Scripture Read, The Word Proclaimed.
As Presbyterians, we affirm that we are the “church reformed, always reforming”. But what exactly does that mean? At its core, we believe that God is not finished with us yet, a belief that undergirds every aspect of our worship service. Join us for our summer sermon series as we explore the scriptural foundation of Reformed worship. It will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Sunday mornings at First Pres!
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on Confession—Prayer, Pardon, Peace, through Luke 7:36-50.
As Presbyterians, we affirm that we are the “church reformed, always reforming”. But what exactly does that mean? At its core, we believe that God is not finished with us yet, a belief that undergirds every aspect of our worship service. Join us for our summer sermon series as we explore the scriptural foundation of Reformed worship. It will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Sunday mornings at First Pres!
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on the Call to Gather/Call to Worship, through Luke 7:36-50.
As Presbyterians, we affirm that we are the "church reformed, always reforming". But what exactly does that mean? At its core, we believe that God is not finished with us yet, a belief that undergirds every aspect of our worship service. Join us for our summer sermon series as we explore the scriptural foundation of Reformed worship. It will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Sunday mornings at First Pres!
Rev. Mark Stryker preaches "Through the Ages" on Exodus 3:14-15 this Sunday.
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and gather with those outside our walls as we look to the future with hope.
Rev. Amos Disasa preaches "Leper #10" on Luke 17:11-19 this Sunday.
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and gather with those outside our walls as we look to the future with hope.
Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaches "Bring What You Have" on John 21:1-19 this Confirmation sunday.
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and gather with those outside our walls as we look to the future with hope.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell and our graduating University students share their thoughts on Matthew 6:19-21, 24-34.
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and gather with those outside our walls as we look to the future with hope.
Rev. Earl Palmer preaches "Words to Clear Heads and Warm Hearts" on 2 Timothy 1:3-7.
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and gather with those outside our walls as we look to the future with hope.
Aeryn Seto Johnson preaches "Could it be True?" on John 20:19-31.
One of the beautiful things about Christian community is the generational richness and diversity in our midst. We often gather as one, but within the larger whole are generations with unique experiences, perspectives, and stories to tell. From our youngest members to our senior saints, God’s goodness is reflected in us all. Join us this spring as we bear witness to God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. Together in worship we will hear from future church leaders and cherished leaders from our past, be encouraged and challenged by our university students and youth, and gather with those outside our walls as we look to the future with hope.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Jesus the Risen One" on Mark 15:42–16:8.
Jesus Christ is one of the most controversial figures in all of history. For many, he was a great moral teacher. To others, he was a political revolutionary. And yet, for billions of people around the world, Jesus is their Lord and Savior. The question remains: why? What about Jesus is so compelling, so wonderful, so true? Why do we choose to believe in and follow this man that C.S. Lewis once observed was either a lunatic, a liar, or lord?
This Lent, we at First Pres will explore these very questions. Together, we will journey through the Gospels, taking a deeper look at the words Jesus preached, the life he lived, the company he kept, and the sacrifices he made. In doing so, we will consider the many facets of Jesus’ character that stir our hearts and prompt our praise.
Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga and Rev. Tom Elson meditate on Preparation and Proclamation through on Luke 19:28-40.
Jesus Christ is one of the most controversial figures in all of history. For many, he was a great moral teacher. To others, he was a political revolutionary. And yet, for billions of people around the world, Jesus is their Lord and Savior. The question remains: why? What about Jesus is so compelling, so wonderful, so true? Why do we choose to believe in and follow this man that C.S. Lewis once observed was either a lunatic, a liar, or lord?
This Lent, we at First Pres will explore these very questions. Together, we will journey through the Gospels, taking a deeper look at the words Jesus preached, the life he lived, the company he kept, and the sacrifices he made. In doing so, we will consider the many facets of Jesus’ character that stir our hearts and prompt our praise.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Jesus the Disrupter" on Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32.
Jesus Christ is one of the most controversial figures in all of history. For many, he was a great moral teacher. To others, he was a political revolutionary. And yet, for billions of people around the world, Jesus is their Lord and Savior. The question remains: why? What about Jesus is so compelling, so wonderful, so true? Why do we choose to believe in and follow this man that C.S. Lewis once observed was either a lunatic, a liar, or lord?
This Lent, we at First Pres will explore these very questions. Together, we will journey through the Gospels, taking a deeper look at the words Jesus preached, the life he lived, the company he kept, and the sacrifices he made. In doing so, we will consider the many facets of Jesus’ character that stir our hearts and prompt our praise.
Rev. Mark Stryker preaches "Jesus the Tempted" on Luke 4:1-13.
Jesus Christ is one of the most controversial figures in all of history. For many, he was a great moral teacher. To others, he was a political revolutionary. And yet, for billions of people around the world, Jesus is their Lord and Savior. The question remains: why? What about Jesus is so compelling, so wonderful, so true? Why do we choose to believe in and follow this man that C.S. Lewis once observed was either a lunatic, a liar, or lord?
This Lent, we at First Pres will explore these very questions. Together, we will journey through the Gospels, taking a deeper look at the words Jesus preached, the life he lived, the company he kept, and the sacrifices he made. In doing so, we will consider the many facets of Jesus’ character that stir our hearts and prompt our praise.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Jesus the Human" on Matthew 25:31-40, Luke 10:25-37.
Jesus Christ is one of the most controversial figures in all of history. For many, he was a great moral teacher. To others, he was a political revolutionary. And yet, for billions of people around the world, Jesus is their Lord and Savior. The question remains: why? What about Jesus is so compelling, so wonderful, so true? Why do we choose to believe in and follow this man that C.S. Lewis once observed was either a lunatic, a liar, or lord?
This Lent, we at First Pres will explore these very questions. Together, we will journey through the Gospels, taking a deeper look at the words Jesus preached, the life he lived, the company he kept, and the sacrifices he made. In doing so, we will consider the many facets of Jesus’ character that stir our hearts and prompt our praise.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Jesus the Healer" on John 5.
Jesus Christ is one of the most controversial figures in all of history. For many, he was a great moral teacher. To others, he was a political revolutionary. And yet, for billions of people around the world, Jesus is their Lord and Savior. The question remains: why? What about Jesus is so compelling, so wonderful, so true? Why do we choose to believe in and follow this man that C.S. Lewis once observed was either a lunatic, a liar, or lord?
This Lent, we at First Pres will explore these very questions. Together, we will journey through the Gospels, taking a deeper look at the words Jesus preached, the life he lived, the company he kept, and the sacrifices he made. In doing so, we will consider the many facets of Jesus’ character that stir our hearts and prompt our praise.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Jesus the Son of the Living God" on Matthew 16:13-28
Jesus Christ is one of the most controversial figures in all of history. For many, he was a great moral teacher. To others, he was a political revolutionary. And yet, for billions of people around the world, Jesus is their Lord and Savior. The question remains: why? What about Jesus is so compelling, so wonderful, so true? Why do we choose to believe in and follow this man that C.S. Lewis once observed was either a lunatic, a liar, or lord?
This Lent, we at First Pres will explore these very questions. Together, we will journey through the Gospels, taking a deeper look at the words Jesus preached, the life he lived, the company he kept, and the sacrifices he made. In doing so, we will consider the many facets of Jesus’ character that stir our hearts and prompt our praise.
Michael Kim-Eubanks preaches "A Home In Which We All Belong" on Psalm 84
How are we supposed to approach the divine in the midst of this threshold season? Join us in worship this winter as we explore how to listen for God’s voice in sacred and surprising ways.
Rev. Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga preaches "Prophecies and Tongues" on 1 Corinthians 14:1-25
How are we supposed to approach the divine in the midst of this threshold season? Join us in worship this winter as we explore how to listen for God’s voice in sacred and surprising ways.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Too Deep For Words" on Romans 8:18-39
How are we supposed to approach the divine in the midst of this threshold season? Join us in worship this winter as we explore how to listen for God’s voice in sacred and surprising ways.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell and Rev. Tom Elson discuss "The Body of Christ" with Jeff Hancock.
How are we supposed to approach the divine in the midst of this threshold season? Join us in worship this winter as we explore how to listen for God’s voice in sacred and surprising ways.
Rev. Tom Elson and Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell discuss "Serving Others" with Doug Hewitt.
How are we supposed to approach the divine in the midst of this threshold season? Join us in worship this winter as we explore how to listen for God’s voice in sacred and surprising ways.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Bargaining with God" on Exodus 33:12-23, with David Kasali.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches "Testing God's Voice" on 1 Samuel 3 with City Team's Oakland & San Francisco Executive Director, Angela Aguilar.
Rev. Mark Stryker preaches on the Magnificat, from Luke 1:46-55, on the fourth Sunday of Advent.
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell and the Racial Justice and the Church Working Group preach on Genesis 16:1-15; 21:1-20
Rev. Dr. Charlene Han Powell preaches on the Book of Job 19:7-12, 23-27 .fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-1{ padding-top : 60px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 60px;padding-bottom : 60px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 60px;}
Rev. Mark Stryker reads Psalm 103; Michelle Vecchio-Lyzenga reads Psalm 104;
Rev. Dr Charlene Han Powell reads Psalm 105
Please note: to allow for the episodic readings of the Psalms, the worship service recording is posted in its entirety.