First Community Church: Recent Episodes
First Community Church
Take My Life, Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - Molly Hagkull, mezzo-soprano, May Schwarz, piano by First Community Church
Take My Life, Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - Aria Cadeau, mezzo-soprano, Scott King-Owen, Piano by First Community Church
My Shepherd Will Supply My Need, Traditional American Melody. Arr. Dale Wood (1934-2003) - May Schwarz, organ by First Community Church
Monologue XII, Josef Rheinberger (1839-1901) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Meditation, Stanley Vann (1910-2010) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Be Still, My Soul, arr. Patti Drennan (b. 1952) - Molly Hagkull, mezzo-soprano, May Schwarz, piano by First Community Church
Be Still, My Soul, arr. Patti Drennan (b. 1952) - Aria Cadeau, mezzo-soprano, Scott King-Owen, Piano by First Community Church
First Community Church 07.26.26 When the Old Answers No Longer Work, A New Reading of the Book of Job - Rev. DR. David P. Gushee by First Community Church
Tranquillo in E-flat, Eric Thiman (1900-1975) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
O Love of God, How Strong and True arr. Howard Helvey (b. 1968) - Jennie Blosser, soprano, Suzanne Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Near to the Heart of God arr. Patti Drennan (b. 1952) - Jennie Blosser, soprano by First Community Church
Lift Every Voice and Sing, JohnsonJohnson, arr. Colin Headings - Austin Ahlborn, bassoon and Collin Headings, piano by First Community Church
Corrente from Partita No. 5 in G Major ,J.S. Bach - Suzanne Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Be Not Afraid, by Craig Courtney arr. Dan Forrest - Suzanne Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Ave Maria J.S. BachCharles Gounod - Austin Ahlborn, bassoon and Collin Headings, piano by First Community Church
First Community Church, 07.19.26 Rev. John Girard - The Stories We Tell Ourselves Pt2 by First Community Church
Sarabande from the Holberg Suite, Edvard Grieg (1843–1907) - Suzzane Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Rigaudon from the Holberg Suite, Edvard Grieg (1843–1907) - Suzanne Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Peace Like a River, arr. Jay Althouse (b. 1951) - C. Andrew Blosser, tenor, Suzzane Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Grand jeu, Pierre Du Mage (1676-1751) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Come Home, Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - Heath Barron, tenor and Summer Choir by First Community Church
Come Home, Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - C. Andrew Blosser, tenor, Suzzane Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Chant de Paix (Song of Peace), Jean Langlais (1907-1971) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 07.12.26 Rev. John Girard - The Stories We Tell Ourselves by First Community Church
Solemn Melody, Sir Henry Walford Davies (1869-1941) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Patriotic Freedom Medley arr. Jon M. Ogletree - Sean Hooper, piano by First Community Church
I Am Thine O Lord, Draw Me Close to You, arr. Matt Schinske - Sean Hooper, piano by First Community Church
Great Is Thy Faithfulness arr. Dan Forrest - Elizabeth Arteta Cunningham, soprano, Tracy Qian, piano by First Community Church
Fugue in C minor, BWV 582, Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) - Tracy Qian, organ by First Community Church
Fanfare, Craig Sellar Lang (1891-1971) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Come to Me, Dan Forrest (b. 1978) - Elizabeth Arteta Cunningham, soprano, Tracy Qian, Piano by First Community Church
Andante Kate Loder (1825-1904)-arr. Anne Marsden Thomas - Tracy Qian, organ_result expanded rotated II by First Community Church
First Community Church, 07.05.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles Sermon A New Birth of Freedom by First Community Church
The Lord Is My Shepherd, Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - Heath Barron, tenor, Scott King-Owen, piano by First Community Church
The Lord Is My Shepherd, Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - Bee Hydorn, soprano, Tracy Qian, piano by First Community Church
Pastorale in F major, BWV 590, Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) - Tracy Qian, organ by First Community Church
Day by Day arr. Mark Hayes (b. 1953) - Heath Barron, tenor, Scott King-Owen, piano by First Community Church
Day by Day arr. Mark Hayes (b. 1953) - Bee Hydorn, soprano, Tracy Qian, piano by First Community Church
Adagio (Sonata I) Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1849) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 06.28.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles Sermon Hope is a Dangerous Thing - Casablanca by First Community Church
Prelude on the Hymn Tune Abridge, Eric Thiman (1900-1975) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Prelude in B-flat major, BWV 560 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) - Tracy Qian, organ by First Community Church
Make Me a Channel of Thy Peace, Mark Hayes (b. 1953) - Gwen Carmack, mezzo-soprano, Tracy Qian by First Community Church
Make Me a Channel of Thy Peace, Mark Hayes (b. 1953) - Amy Johnston Blosser, soprano, Scott King-Owen, Pianist by First Community Church
For the Beauty of the Earth, Yahweh Let Your Kingdom Come - Common Grace Band by First Community Church
Chopin Prelude, Op. 28, no. 13 arr. Michael Steinhuber-Novacek (b. 1962) - Tracy Qian, organ by First Community Church
Be Thou My Vision, arr. Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - Gwen Carmack, mezzo-soprano, Tracy Qian, Pianist by First Community Church
Be Thou My Vision arr. Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - Amy Johnston Blosser, soprano, Scott King-Owen, Pianist by First Community Church
First Community Church, 06.21.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles Sermon Hope is a Dangerous Thing - E.T. by First Community Church
First Community Church, 06.14.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles Sermon , Hope is a Dangerous Thing - Frozen by First Community Church
The Gift of Love arr. Hal Hopson (1933-2025) - Nick Denino, baritone and Scott King-Owen, piano by First Community Church
The Gift of Love arr. Hal Hopson (1933-2025) - David Hydorn, tenor and Tracy Qian, piano by First Community Church
Psalm XVIII Benedetto Marcello (1686-1738) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Postlude on “O Zion, Haste” James Walch (1837-1901) - Tracy Qian, organ by First Community Church
Organ Sonata No.4, Mov I. Allegro con brio Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) - Tracy Qian, organ by First Community Church
Liturgical Improvisation No. 1 (My soul hath a desire to enter the courts of the Lord) George Oldroyd (1886-1951) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Abide with Me arr. Mark Hayes (b. 1953) - Nick Denino, baritone and Scott King-Owen, piano by First Community Church
Abide with Me arr. Mark Hayes (b. 1953) - David Hydorn, tenor and Tracy Qian, piano by First Community Church
The Joy, I Will Sing of Your Love, Love, Love - Common Grace Band by First Community Church
Praise the Lord (Ye Heavens Adore Him) arr. Robert Hughes - Franklin T. Cory, piano by First Community Church
O God, Our Help in Ages Past, arr. Mark Hayes (b. 1953) - C. Andrew Blosser, tenor, Suzanne Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Give Your Best to the Master, arr. Robert Thygerson - Amber Biehl, flute and Franklin T. Cory, piano by First Community Church
Choral Paraphrase on the Hymn Tune Beecher Homer Whitford (1892-1980) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
Be Not Afraid Craig Courtney (b. 1948) - C. Andrew Blosser, tenor, Suzanne Newcomb, piano_result expanded rotated II by First Community Church
Allegro maestoso e vivace (Sonata II) Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1849) - Robert Griffith, organ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 06.07.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Hope is a Dangerous Thing- The Shawshank Redemption by First Community Church
Be Thou My Vision, SLANE arr. Alice Parker (1925–2023) - Morning Song 2026 by First Community Church
Peace Like a River, African American Spiritualarr. Mack Wilberg - Morning Song 2026 by First Community Church
All Creatures of Our God and King LASST UNS ERFREUEN arr. Tim Sarsany - Morning Song 2026 by First Community Church
Great Is Thy Faithfulness, arr. Dan Forrest - Morning Song 2026 by First Community Church
All Night, All Day Traditional Spiritual arr. Matthew Armstrong - Morning Song 2026 by First Community Church
When Morning Gilds the Skies LAUDES DOMINIarr. Molly Ijames - Morning Song 2026 by First Community Church
Marche Triomphale Nun danket alle Gott (Now Thank We All Our God), Op.65 No 59 Sigfrid Karg-Elert (1877-1933) - May Schwarz by First Community Church
Litany to the Holy Spirit, Peter Herford (1930-2019) - Cambridge Choir by First Community Church
Lift High the Cross, The Love of Christ Proclaim CRUCIFERsetting by Donald Busarow (1932-2011) - May Schwarz by First Community Church
Kyrie, Gott heiliger Geist (Kyrie, God the Holy Spirit), BWV 671, Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) - Robert Griffith by First Community Church
I'm Gonna Sing 'Til the Spirit Moves in My Heart arr. Moses Hogan (1957-2003) - Brayden Williams, baritone and Chancel Choir by First Community Church
Every Time I Feel the Spirit arr. William Dawson (1899-1990) - Keith Levell, baritone and Chancel Choir by First Community Church
Chorale Prelude, Nun bitten wir den heilgen Geist (We Pray Now to the Holy Spirit) Dietrich Buxtehude (1637-1707) - Robert Griffith by First Community Church
Awake, My Heart, with Gladness AUF, AUF, MEIN HERZ setting by May Schwarz by First Community Church
First Community Church, 05.24.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, One Love One Heart by First Community Church
Prelude and Fugue in G Minor, BWV 55 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) - Robert Griffith by First Community Church
Postlude on “Morning Song”, David Lasky (b. 1957) - May Schwarz by First Community Church
Open Now the Gates of Beauty, Paul Manz (1938-2025) - May Schwarz, organist by First Community Church
O Love That will Not Let Me Go, arr. Molly Ijames (b. 1979) - Chancel Choir by First Community Church
A Mighty Fortress is our God, arr. Mark Hayes - Scott King-Owen by First Community Church
First Community Church, 05.17.26 Rev. Terri Hord Owens- Sermon, The Growing Edge by First Community Church
Sing to the Lord, arr. Alice Parker (1925-2023) - Chancel Choir by First Community Church
I Sing Because I'm Happy, Rollo Dilworth (b. 1970) - Chancel Choir by First Community Church
For the Beauty of the Earth, John Rutter - Suzanne Newcomb, piano by First Community Church
Adagio (Symphonie V), Charles-Marie Widor (1844-1937) - Robert Griffith, organist by First Community Church
'How Fair and How Pleasant Art Thou', Marcel Dupré (1886-1971) - Robert Griffith, organist by First Community Church
First Community Church, 05.10.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Mikes- Sermon, What We Talk About When We Talk About God Part 2- We Are God's Offspring by First Community Church
Whitechapel Ringers - Standin' in the Need of Prayer African American Spiritualarr. Valerie W. Stephenson (b. 1943) by First Community Church
Postlude on “Shout On Early American Tunearr. David Lasky (b. 1957) by First Community Church
05.03.26 Sermon - What We Talk About, When We Talk About God PT1 - An Unknown God by First Community Church
Whitechapel Ringers - This Joyful Eastertide arr. Jane McFadden (b. 1942)) by First Community Church
Whitechapel Ringers - Take It to the Lord in Prayer arr. Sandra Eithun (b. 1963) by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.26.26 Rev. Sarah Kientz- Sermon, Through the Gates by First Community Church
Variations on the Chorale Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, (What God does, that is done well) Johann Pachelbel (1653-1706) by First Community Church
Hallelujah from Messiah,HWV 56 George Friedrich Handel (1685-1759) by First Community Church
Fantasia super All Glory Laud and Honor (Valet will ich dir geben), BWV 735 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.19.26 Rev. John Girard- Sermon, This Changes Everything by First Community Church
Prelude in C Major, BWV 553 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
Prelude and Fugue in B-flat Major, BWV 560 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
I Know That My Redeemer Liveth from Messiah George Frederic Handel (1685-1759) by First Community Church
Halle, halle, halle Traditional Caribbean Tunearr. Hal Hopson (1933-2025) by First Community Church
Christ lay in Todesbanden (Christ lay in death's bonds...He rose and brought us life...Alleluia!), BWV 625 Johann Sebastian Bach by First Community Church
Andante from Sonata No 3 in A Major Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.12.26 Rev. Sarah Kientz- Sermon, Roots and Roofs by First Community Church
@TheGathering 04.08.26 - An Intergral Approach to Spititual Formation by First Community Church
Toccata from Symphonie V, Op. 42, no. 1 Charles-Marie Widor(1845-1937)arr.Richard Proulx (1937-2010) by First Community Church
Concertato on Crown Him with Many Crowns, Vaclav Nelhybel (1919-1996)(For 2 Trumpets, 2 Trombones, and Organ),Flor Peters (1908-1986) by First Community Church
Concertato on “All Creatures of Our God and King” Vaclav Nelhybel (1919-1996)” by First Community Church
Joy Is Come! Traditional German Tune arr. Andrew Carter (b. 1939).mp4 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.05.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, With Fear and Great Joy by First Community Church
03.29.26 11am Service Anthem- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross arr. Gilbert Martin by First Community Church
03.29.26 11am Service Anthem- Ride On, King Jesus- Traditional Spiritual arr. Howard Helvey (b. 1968) by First Community Church
03.29.26 10am Service Anthem- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross arr. Gilbert Martin by First Community Church
03.29.26 10am Service Anthem- Ride On, King Jesus- Traditional Spiritual arr. Howard Helvey (b. 1968) by First Community Church
03.29.26 10am Service Anthem- Awake, My Soul arr. Craig Courtney (b. 1948) by First Community Church
03.29.26 10am Prelude - Entrée (Suite Médiévale) Jean Langlais (1907- 1991) by First Community Church
03.29.26 9am Service Cherub Choir Song- Sing a Little Song of Praise by Douglas Wagner by First Community Church
First Community Church, 03.29.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Shaken by First Community Church
03.22.26 11am Prelude - Meditation Léon Boëllmann (1862-1897) by First Community Church
03.22.26 11am Postlude - Grand Jeu Dialogue from Organ Suite #1 (1708) Pierre DuMage (1674-1751) by First Community Church
03.22.26 11am Offertory Anthem - Come, Thou Fount arr. Craig Courtney (b. 1948) by First Community Church
03.22.26 10am Prelude - Chorale Prelude Herzlich tut mich verlangen,(My Heart is Filled with Longing), BWV 727, Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
03.22.26 10am Postlude - Fantasia in C Minor, BWV 562 Johann Sebastian Bach by First Community Church
03.22.26 10am Offertory Anthem - Ave Maria Tomas Luis de Victoria (1549-1611) by First Community Church
First Community Church, 03.22.26 Rev. Mary Kate Buchanan- Sermon, The Shape of Love- Seeing God Clearly at the Cross- Part 5- ‘The Shape of Love is Mercy’ by First Community Church
03.15.26 11am Postlude - Toccata in G Minor (1738) Karl Graun (1704-1759) by First Community Church
03.15.26 11am Service Anthem- The Morning Trumpet arr. Howard Helvey (b. 1968) by First Community Church
03.15.26 11am Service Anthem- Open Thou Mine Eyes by John Rutter (b. 1945) by First Community Church
03.15.26 11am Prelude - He Shall Feed His Flock from Messiah, HWV 56 George Frederic Handel (1685-1759) by First Community Church
03.15.26 10am Postlude - Prelude and Fugue in A Minor, BWV 559 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
03.15.26 10am Service Anthem- And Can It Be arr. Anna Laura Page by First Community Church
03.15.26 10am Service Anthem- A Special Light by Tammy Waldrop by First Community Church
03.15.26 10am Prelude - Elegy for Organ by John Ireland (1879-1962) by First Community Church
First Community Church, 03.15.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, The Shape of Love Part 4- ‘The Shape of Love is a Trojan Horse Delivered to Hell’ by First Community Church
03.08.26 10am Anthem - For Those Who Pray Jane Marshall (1924-2019) by First Community Church
03.08.26 10am Offertory Anthem - Let Us ever Walk with Jesus arr. Dan Forrest (b. 1978) by First Community Church
03.08.26 10am Prelude - Chorale Prelude Erbarm dich mein, o Herre Gott (Be Merciful to Me, O Lord God), BWV 721 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
03.08.26 11am Anthem - Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me, Craig Courtney (b. 1948) by First Community Church
03.08.26 11am Offertory Anthem -The King of Love My Shepherd Is arr. John Ness Beck (1930-1987) by First Community Church
03.08.26 11am Prelude - Little Prelude in D Minor, Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
03.08.26 11am Postlude - Allegro (from Suite Gothique) Leon Boellmann (1862-1897) by First Community Church
03.01.26 11am Anthem- God So Loved the World by John Stainer (1840-1901) by First Community Church
03.01.26 11am Anthem- Jesus, Lover of My Soul arr. Henry Coleman (1888-1965) by First Community Church
03.01.26 10am Anthem- More Love to Thee with More Love More Power by First Community Church
03.01.26 10am Anthem- O Jesus, I Have Promised by Howard Helvey (b.1968) by First Community Church
03.01.26 10am Prelude- Elegy by Sir George Thalben-Ball (1896-1987) by First Community Church
First Community Church, 03.01.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, The Shape of Love- Seeing God Clearly at the Cross Part 2- 'The Shape of Love is Jesus' by First Community Church
02.22.26 10am Service Anthem- O Love That Will Not Let Me Go arr. Molly Ijames by First Community Church
02.22.26 10am Service Anthem- Beneath the Cross arr. Scott King-Owen by First Community Church
02.22.26 10am Service Prelude- Adagio (Suite Modale) by Flor Peeters (1909-1986) by First Community Church
02.22.26 11am Service Postlude- Taccata Brevis by Daniel E. Gawthorp (b. 1949) by First Community Church
02.22.26 11am Service Anthem- Be Still by Mary McDonald (b. 1956) by First Community Church
02.22.26 11am Service Anthem- And Can It Be by Dan Forrest (b.1978) by First Community Church
02.22.26 11am Service Prelude- Adagio from Organ Sonata #1 by Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) by First Community Church
First Community Church, 02.22.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, The Shape of Love- Seeing God Clearly at the Cross- Part 1- The Shape of Love Is Self-Giving by First Community Church
02.15.26 11am Service Postlude - The Heavens Declare (Psalm_19) by Robert Wetzler (1933-2015) by First Community Church
02.15.26 11am Service Prelude - Light for Revelation to the Nations by Paul Benoit (1893-1979) by First Community Church
02.15.26 10am Service Prelude - bis du bei mir (' When Thou Art Near') BWV 508 by Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) by First Community Church
02.15.26 11am service anthem - Siyahamba - south african folk song arr. Robert Wade by First Community Church
02.15.26 11am service anthem - Seasons of the Heart by Karen Lukey Buckwalter by First Community Church
02.15.26 10am service organ offertory- Largo from 'Xerxes' by George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) arr. Boyton Smith by First Community Church
02.15.26 10am Service Anthem - Be Not Afraid by Craig Courtney by First Community Church
First Community Church, 02.15.26 Rev. Seth Stearns- Sermon, 'God Doesn't Text' by First Community Church
First Community Church, 01.25.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, ' I've Been To The Mountaintop' by First Community Church
First Community Church, 01.18.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, 'How Long, Not Long' by First Community Church
First Community Church, 01.11.26 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, ‘The Fierce Urgency of Now’ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 12.28.25 Rev. Seth Stearns- Sermon, ‘Nightmares and Dreams’ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 12.21.25 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Advent Sermon Series, ‘Dreaming of Love’ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 12.14.25 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, ‘Dreaming of Joy’ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 12.07.25 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Advent Sermon Series, ‘Dreaming of Peace’ by First Community Church
12.03.25 Gathering- What Really Happened on The First Christmas by First Community Church
First Community Church, 11.30.25 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Advent Sermon Series, ‘Dreaming of Hope’ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 11.23.25 Dr. Rev. John Girard- Sermon, 'A Little Whiplash, A Lot of Welcome, and A Criminal in My Pew' by First Community Church
11.19.25 Gathering- The Moral Teachings of Jesus- Radical Instruction in the Will of God by First Community Church
First Community Church, 11.16.25 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, All Y’all We Need Each Other by First Community Church
First Community Church 11.09.25 Rev Sarah Kientz -Sermon, Exorcism and You! by First Community Church
Seth Stearns has a conversation with 24-year-old Colin Green, about church, spirituality and life. Colin discusses his journey with religion and identity, sharing that while he grew up attending church and even wanted to be baptized, he now feels uncomfortable being confined to a specific religion or label. He shares his discomfort with traditional religious narratives and a preference for a more personal, fluid understanding of faith. He discusses how experiences in his life led him to question and re-evaluate his beliefs, particularly regarding his sexual orientation. Currently, Colin values his family, friends, and the impact he has on others, finding fulfillment in his role as a bartender where he often acts as an informal therapist, helping people through active listening and small kindnesses.
First Community Church, 11.02.25 Rev. Mary Kate Buchanan- Sermon, We Can Do Hard Things by First Community Church
10.29.2025 Gathering- Voices of Hope- Surviving and Thriving the Crisis of Suicide Pt 4 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 10.26.25 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Two Stories, Two Sermons, and (at least) A Million Points- Part 2 by First Community Church
10.22.2025 Gathering- Voices of Hope- Surviving and Thriving the Crisis of Suicide Pt 3 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 10.19.25 Dr. Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Two Stories, Two Sermons, and (at least) A Million Points- Part 1 by First Community Church
10.15.2025 Gathering- Voices of Hope- Surviving and Thriving the Crisis of Suicide Pt 2 by First Community Church
10.08.2025 Gathering- Voices of Hope- Surviving and Thriving the Crisis of Suicide by First Community Church
First Community Church, 10.05.25 Dr. Pete Enns- Sermon, ‘No One Has Ever Seen God’ by First Community Church
First Community Church, 09.28.25 Rev. Dr. Glen Miles- Sermon, The Power of Small Things- Like a Mustard Seed by First Community Church
First Community Church 09.24.25 Seth Stearns Gathering Book Study The Bible Tells Me So Pt 2 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 09.21.25 Rev. Dr. Glen Miles- Sermon, More Than Enough by First Community Church
09.17.25 Gathering Book Study; Curveballs & Clarity, Finding God in the Bible Part 1 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 09.14.25 Rev. Dr. Glen Miles- Sermon, A Foundation That Holds by First Community Church
First Community Church 09.10.25 Gathering Glen Miles sermon - What's Next by First Community Church
First Community Church, 09.07.25 Rev. Dr. Glen Miles- Sermon, Grace Anatomy by First Community Church
First Community Church 08.31.25 Falling And Rising, Rev. Seth Stearns by First Community Church
First Community Church, 08.24.25 Rev. John Girard- Sermon, Somewhere between Fig Trees and Mustard Seeds by First Community Church
08.17.25 Akita Sunday Rev. Sarah Kientz Sermon - Give Me Space by First Community Church
First Community Church, 08.10.25 Rev. Dr. Glen Miles- Sermon, Faith In the Quiet Voice of God by First Community Church
First Community Church 07.20.25 Glen Miles Sermon Series Where The Streets Have No Name P.05 TheSearchForSomethingMoreYouToo by First Community Church
First Community Church 07.13.25 Glen Miles Sermon Pride(In the name of love) P.04 YouTooTheSearchForSomethingMore by First Community Church
First Community Church 07.13.25 Glen Miles -Sermon Pride, In The Name Of Love, P4 You Too! by First Community Church
First Community Church 07.06.25 Glen Miles Sermon Beautiful Day P.3 YouTooTheSearchForSomethingMore by First Community Church
First Community Church 06.29.25 Glen Miles -Sermon Grace Part 2 You Too! The Search for Something More by First Community Church
I'm looking forward to sharing this new sermon series, You Too - The Search for Something More, with all of you this Sunday. For well over 40 years, U2 has been one of the world's most popular bands. Their songs explore topics such as love and grace, hope and fear, faith and doubt. Lead singer Bono (Paul David Hewson) sings and speaks openly about his Christian faith. One of my favorite quotes from his book Surrender says this about prayer,"Someone has likened prayer to being on a rough sea in a small boat with no oars. All you have is a rope that, somewhere in the distance, is attached to the port. With that rope, you can pull yourself closer to God. Songs are my prayers."Their beloved song, "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," is, in my view, a beautiful example of a prayer. The first sermon in the series will focus on this line from the huge hit:I believe in the Kingdom ComeThen all the colours will bleed into oneBleed into oneBut yes, I'm still runnin'When I listen to the song, I hear an echo of a lament found in Psalm 42, As a deer longs for flowing streams,so my soul longs for you, O God.The Hebrew poet is poignantly looking for God, for a sense of the sacred, for something holier than himself. He feels abandoned, forgotten, left behind. I've heard themes like this in many of the pastoral care conversations I've had over the years. Despite the sense of loss, the author of Psalm 42, like this week's U2 song, finds the courage to name a fleeting yet still real sense of hope,Hope in God, for I shall again praise the Lord,my help and my God.I've had a great time working on these sermons, and I cannot wait to share this first one with you. Plus, I know you're going to be inspired by the First Community musicians who will perform this U2 song! At the 9 am service in Wing Grace Hall at FC North, it'll be the Common Grace Band leading us. In the 10 am service in the sanctuary at FC South, tenor Nick Denino will sing "I Still Haven't Found..." Nick is a member of the Cambridge Choir. At 11 am in the sanctuary at FC North, members of the Common Grace Band will make a guest appearance to perform the song.
First Community Church 6.15.25 John Girard -Sermon Tea, Cake, Yokes, and Burdens by First Community Church
First Community Church 06.08.25 Glen Miles -Sermon, The Power of the Power of Love by First Community Church
First Community Church 05.25.25 Rev. Seth Stearns -Sermon, What Do We Do Now by First Community Church
First Community Church, 05.18.25 Rev. Dr. Glen Miles- Sermon, Finish Strong- Faithful to the Journey- Part 3- A Vision for the Future by First Community Church
First Community 05.11.25 Glen Miles -Sermon, Faith That Works Part 2 Sermon Series Finish Strong by First Community Church
First Community 05.04.25 Glen Miles- Sermon, Called to Transformation Part 1, Finish Strong by First Community Church
First Community Church @ The Gathering Glen Miles Its Wednesday But Sundays Coming P3 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.27.25 Rev. Sarah Kientz- Sermon, See For Yourself by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.20.25 Easter Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Everything in Between- Grief & Hope by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.13.25 Palm Sunday Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Everything in Between- Shouting & Silence by First Community Church
First Community Church @ The Gathering Glen Miles Bible Study Its Wednesday But Sundays Coming P2 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 04.06.25 Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Everything in Between- Righteousness & Mercy by First Community Church
First Community 04.02.25 @ The Gathering Glen Miles -Sermon Study Its Wednesday But Sundays Coming P1 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 03.30.25 Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Everything in Between- Lost and Found by First Community Church
The Lenten Journey Hosted by Rev. Seth Stearns Prayer Week 3 of 3 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 03.23.25 Rev. Mary Kate Buchanan- Sermon, Everything in Between- Rest and Growth by First Community Church
The Lenten Journey Hosted By Rev. Seth Stearns Week 2 of 3 03.19.25 by First Community Church
First Community Church 03.16.25 Glen Miles -Sermon Everything In Between, Faith and Works by First Community Church
First Community 2025 Lay Leaders Installation Glen Miles Meditation 03.10.25 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 03.02.25 Rev. Glen Miles- Sermon, Thy Will Be Done, Thy Kingdom Come by First Community Church
First Community At the Gathering Book Study, Rev. Glen Miles The Gospel According to Jesus 02.26.25 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 02.23.25 Rev. Sarah Kientz- Sermon, Seeds & Cells by First Community Church
First Community Church, 02.16.25 Rev. John Girard- Sermon, Heart to Heart by First Community Church
@ The Gathering Book Study Rev. John Girard Three Simple Rules Part 2 02.12.25 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 02.09.25 Glen Miles- Sermon, Unforgettable -I Just Called to Say I Love You by First Community Church
First Community The Gathering Book Study - Rev. John GIrard -Three Simple Rules Part 1 02.05.25 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 02.02.25 Rev, Jim Wallis- Sermon, Who Is My Neighbor The Big Question by First Community Church
First Community Church Annual Meeting 01.29.25 Glen Miles Comments -Work As If Your Soul Depends On It by First Community Church
First Community Church 01.26.25 Glen Miles-Sermon Through It All Pt 3 I’ve Learned to Trust in God by First Community Church
First Community The Gathering Book Study Glen Miles- Jesus For Everyone Part II 01.22.25 by First Community Church
First Community Church, 01.19.25 Glen Miles- Sermon, Through it All Part 2- I’ve Learned to Trust in Jesus by First Community Church
The Spirituality Podcast Presents a Conversation with Jim Wallis by First Community Church
First Community Church 01.15.25 The Gathering Book Study Jesus for Everyone by First Community Church
First Community Church 1.12.25 Glen Miles- Sermon, Through it All Part I by First Community Church
This week, we are excited to have Glen Miles as the guest on the Not So Late Show! You'll get to hear insights and stories from Glen that are sure to inspire and encourage you.
First Community Church 1.5.25 John Girard- Sermon, Refrigerators, Pantries, and Epiphanies by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.29.24 Seth Stearns -Sermon, So, Now What by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.24.24 Christmas Eve Glen Miles -Sermon, The World is the Manger by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.22.24 Glen Miles, Sermon- Begin Again: Rediscovering the Spirit of Christmas- Part IV Hope is Worth the Risk, A Muppet Christmas Carol by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.15.24 Glen Miles, Sermon- Begin Again; Rediscovering the Spirit of Christmas- Part III Do the Good that is Yours To Do, The Grinch's Transformation by First Community Church
Sermon by Glen Miles 12.04.24 -Begin Again, Rediscovering the Spirit of Christmas Part II by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.01.24 Glen Miles- Sermon, Begin Again; Rediscovering the Spirit of Christmas- Part I You're a Blessing, Buddy the Elf's Journey by First Community Church
First Community Church 11.24.24 Mary Kate Buchanan- Sermon, Christ the King by First Community Church
First Community Church 11.13.24 Seth Stearns Bible Study Bridging The Gap Part III by First Community Church
First Community Church 11.17.24 Sarah Kientz- Sermon, The Lord Remembered Her by First Community Church
Bridging the GapWednesday at The Gathering, Rev. Seth Stearns, Minister of Spiritual Life and Learning, presented Part 2 of the program, "Bridging the Gap," a study focused on building connections and understanding across the political divide while grounding our discussions in Scripture. This timely and very informative study was helpful to me as we face the political divides in our country
First Community Church 11.10.24 Glen Miles -Semron, I Believe In God by First Community Church
Are you looking for a meaningful way to deepen your faith while fostering unity in our divided world? We invite you to a new Bible study, Bridging the Gap, led by Rev. Seth Stearns. This study will focus on building connections and understanding across the political divide while grounding our discussions in Scriptur
The Bible Tells Me So -Part 3: "Peacemakers"This Sunday, November 3, I continue my Fall sermon series, The Bible Tells Me So, with Part 3: "Peacemakers." As you might guess, this sermon is based on one of the beatitudes in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, "blessed are the Peacemakers." Our first thought about peacemakers might be that their singular desire is to help people, communities, or nations get along with each other. That may be the ultimate desire, but often, a peacemaker's first task is to speak the truth, name the issues, and face the reality of the situation. Such an approach does not always endear the peacemaker to those in conflict.We will also listen to Paul's letter to the Philippians, in which he implores the church in Philippi to "not be anxious about anything." The words "anxiety" and "anxious" have come up often in many of the pastoral conversations I have had lately. We may be divided politically as a nation, but our collective anxiety seems to be a common trait!Working for peace is never easy, but if we believe the Spirit of God is with us, and she is, then we can take on anything. As Paul instructs, "By prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." That bit of 2000-year-old advice still speaks to us today.
This Sunday, October 27, I continue my fall sermon series, The Bible Tells Me So, with Part 2, "The Least of These." The sermon is inspired by Matthew 25 and Jesus' teaching that anytime we feed the hungry, share water with the thirsty, visit the imprisoned, and clothe the naked, it is as though we are doing these things for Jesus himself. In this story, Jesus calls on us to put our faith into action and let our hands and feet carry the love of God to the world.The Bible is a fascinating document that evolved and even changed as its contents were being gathered. Today, our understanding of this sacred word continues to evolve and change as well, especially when we take it seriously and not literally. By listening carefully to these ancient ideas while engaging our modern minds with them, we may be surprised to discover how contemporary the Bible's concepts and teachings are.
This Sunday, I begin a new sermon series, The Bible Tells Me So: Reframing and Refreshing Sacred Scripture for Today. The series is inspired by various sources, all of which call on us to pay attention to the words and actions of Jesus. The Bible has often been treated as an answer book or a template for rules for living your life. Read through it sometime, though, and you will find it is anything but these things. Instead, the Bible serves as an invitation to live wisely, recognizing that our lives and experiences evolve and change sometimes dramatically, just as the Bible does!The first sermon in the series, "The Truth Will Make You Free (But Not Before You're Mad as Heck"), is based on John 8:32 and Jesus' well-known statement, "The truth will make you free." These days, we are desperate in the USA for truth-telling. Jesus' wise statement calls on us to approach our culture with a deep respect for the truth and a desire for wisdom. In Psalm 25, an ancient psalmist calls on God for help, saying, "Lead me in your truth and teach me." Clearly, truth matters! Speaking the truth and facing up to it is not always easy, as my sermon title says, but truth sets us on the pathway to freedom. That is a journey worth taking.
First Community Church Spiritual Life and Learning Centers Presents A Conversation with Beckie Boger by First Community Church
First Community Church 10.02.24 Book Study Life After Doom Part 4 by First Community Church
First Community Church 09.29.24 Glen Miles -Sermon Part 3 When the Power of Love Overcomes ... by First Community Church
First Community Church 09.25.24 The Gathering Book Study Glen Miles-Life After Doom Part III by First Community Church
If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get Out of the Boat This Sunday, I will present part 2 in our Measuring What Matters sermon series, "If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get Out of the Boat." As you can no doubt guess, the sermon is inspired by the story of Jesus (and Peter!) walking on water found in Matthew 14: 22-32. It is an extraordinary tale, one we will take seriously, not literally. Jesus has taken time to escape the crowd and find a quiet space to rest and pray. There are many lessons in this story, and the first one is this: if Jesus needs time to step aside from his work, so do you and I! As you will hear, a storm breaks out, and Jesus decides to check on the disciples. He takes a walk on the Sea of Galilee. The disciples think they see a ghost. They're filled with fear, but Jesus says, "Take heart; it is I; do not be afraid." The phrase that captures my attention is "Take heart." Karoline Lewis, a biblical scholar, suggests that Jesus is saying, "You are going to have to lead, live, and love with your heart." There is a great truth here. Living with our hearts invites us to see the world's deep needs and our gifts and to find where they intersect. Can this be frightening? Of course. Sometimes, the easiest thing to do is avoid what is going on in the world and hide away in whatever entertainment we can find. If you want to make a difference in the world, though, if you want to walk on water, you'll have to get out of the boat!
I'm excited to announce I will be leading a four-week review of the book, Life After Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart by Brian McLaren. McLaren, a renowned theologian, provides insights on navigating challenging times, finding our way to hope. I'm really enjoying this book. You do not have to read it to attend these sessions as I will provide an overview each week of several topics from the book. If you are going to read it let me know and I'll send you an invite to a reading group I'm forming. Just respond to this email and you are in!
The Spirituality Podcast presents Conversations with The Naked Pastor; David Hayward by First Community Church
New Sermon Series, Measuring What MattersThis Sunday, I begin a new sermon series connected to our 2025 giving campaign, Measuring What Matters: Journey to Generosity. Part 1, "Imagine," is inspired by Jesus' concern for the crowds who are coming to hear his teaching. In his words, they are "harassed and helpless." They are desperate for good news, understanding, and someone who can point them toward a meaningful life. Jesus instructs his disciples to care for the crowds. Over the last 2,000 years, this same instruction has been true for the church, you, and me.The compassionate and gracious message of Jesus is reflected in the loving acceptance of all practiced here at First Community. As angry voices of division and fear continue to affect our culture, First Community's words of inclusive love are as necessary now as they were in Jesus' time. I'm looking forward to sharing this new series with you. It is a message for today!
I'm excited to announce I will be leading a four-week review of the book, Life After Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart by Brian McLaren. McLaren, a renowned theologian, provides insights on navigating challenging times, finding our way to hope. I'm really enjoying this book. You do not have to read it to attend these sessions as I will provide an overview each week of several topics from the book. If you are going to read it let me know and I'll send you an invite to a reading group I'm forming. Just respond to this email and you are in!
My sermon, On Earth As It Is In Heaven, is inspired (as you probably guessed) by the Lord's Prayer and Revelation 21: 1-5a. Have you ever noticed when we pray the Lord's Prayer, we do not ask God to help us get into heaven? Instead, we ask for heaven to come down to earth so that God's will can be done today. And what is God's will? Seven hundred years before Jesus the prophet Micah described it quite well, "to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God." That is a very good job description for you and me.We will listen to a reading from Revelation 21. You may be surprised to learn the book of Revelation picks up on the theme of justice as well. The new Jerusalem mentioned in our reading will be a place where all people are welcomed, and justice will prevail. I've particularly enjoyed working on this sermon and I am looking forward to sharing it Sunday at 9, 10, and 11!
I'm really looking forward to sharing my sermon, Grace at Work, with you this Sunday. The sermon is inspired by a sermon by Rachel Held Evans, one of my favorite theologians, and by Jesus' teaching in Luke 17 on having "faith the size of a mustard seed." Jesus essentially says, "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed (and you do!), you'll be able to get through just about anything!" I've enjoyed working on this message, and I cannot wait to share it with you.
First Community Church 08.25.24 Mary Kate Buchanan -Sermon, Sticks and Stones by First Community Church
First Community Church 08.18.24 Akita Sunday Sarah Kientz -Sermon, Once Upon A Summer by First Community Church
This Sunday, I continue my sermon series, Speaking the Truth in Love, with Part 2 - "Watch What God Does," based on Ephesians 4: 25-5:2. The biblical text concludes with this clear instruction, "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and walk in love." I deeply appreciate it when the Bible is clear and direct with advice like this. Whether you are Presbyterian or Pentecostal, Disciples of Christ or United Church of Christ, Methodist or Mennonite, this word speaks to all of us on how to live each day: Walk in love!The instructions are easy to understand, but walking in love can be a difficult challenge. These days, loud and raging voices, ones filled with fear-mongering and worse, dominate our airwaves, the internet, and print media, too. The temptation to forget about God's ways, to give up following Jesus, and to join in with the meanness is strong. Paul's advice here, though, calls on us to live as children of God regardless of what is happening around us. We are to be the ones who live in love and speak the truth. Jesus once said, "The truth shall make you free," but many preachers since then have added, "but not before it gets you in trouble." Truth-telling is not easy, but truth leads to true freedom. I'm looking forward to sharing this message with you. I know it is one I need to hear, and I am sure it will also be a hopeful word for you.
Part 1 "God Wants Us to Grow Up" I begin a new sermon series titled Speaking the Truth in Love: Growing in Grace. Our cultural climate seems to be dominated these days by vitriolic anger and attack-filled commentary. The culture of the early church was quite different from ours. They lived under the rule of the brutal Roman Empire, after all, but within the earliest congregations, it was easy for them to divide into frustrated factions. Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus addresses these issues and more. Paul writes, "God wants us to grow up, to know the whole truth and tell it in love—like Christ." That is a modern paraphrase of Paul's words. It captures the spirit of his message for sure, and it is the title of part 1 of this series, "God Wants Us to Grow Up." A cautionary note: shouting "grow up" at each can lead to more vitriol. That is not Paul's advice here at all. Instead, he invites us to respond to the world's needs from the framework of love. That is what mature adults do. I'm really looking forward to sharing this message with you!
First Community Church 07.28.24 David Long Higgins -Sermon, Love Forms A Room by First Community Church
This Sunday in worship, I will deliver the sermon "Vulnerability is Not a Weakness," based on Mark 6:30-34, 53-56. In the biblical texts, Jesus shows deep compassion for the crowd of folks who are spiritually and physically hungry. He also demonstrates kindness toward his disciples who are overwhelmed by fear. Even though he must have been bone-tired from previous work, he found a way to teach and demonstrated "compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd." Vulnerability is a strength. The theologian Rachel Held Evans notes, "But without...vulnerability, real friendships cannot grow and real ideas cannot flourish in the good soil of a diverse, engaged community." I think I can hear some of you saying, "Amen!"
First Community Church Rev. John Girard -Sermon Spices, Aquanet, and A Little More Time by First Community Church
This Sunday, Rev. Seth Stearns, Minister of Spiritual Life & Learning, will deliver the sermon, "Who Do Think You Are?" That's a fun title! His message is based on Mark 6: 1-13.
The sermon will be inspired by Elemental, which is a love story at its heart, but it is also a parable on learning to overcome bigotry to form community. The Bible talks about this idea a lot! In Deuteronomy, Moses reminds his people (and us) to 'love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt." More than 1,000 years later, Paul wrote to a church in Galatia (modern-day Turkey) declaring, "There is no longer Jew or Greek; there is no longer slave or free; there is no longer male and female, for all of you are one..." You can see where this sermon is going. In a world that seems to divide more deeply every day, we need a clear and simple reminder of the inclusive nature of God's ongoing love for all.
This Sunday, I continue my sermon series, Reel Theology: Going to the Movies with God, with Part 3 - "Respect: Twas Grace." Have you seen the movie Respect, which is the story of Aretha Franklin's life? It is an excellent film, and the music is powerful. Jennifer Hudson plays Aretha. Her renditions of Aretha's biggest hits both honor the Queen of Soul's style and show off Hudson's incredible range. We will also hear from John 1 and the gospel writer's reminder that "we have all received, grace upon grace."
This Sunday, I will continue my summer sermon series, Reel Theology: Going to the Movies with God, with part 2, "The Boys in the Boat: Harmony, Balance, and Rhythm." If you have not seen this movie, I highly recommend it! It is available on Amazon Prime Video. It is the stirring story of the University of Washington junior varsity rowing team that won the gold medal representing the USA at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. The film gives us powerful insights into the physically and mentally demanding sport of rowing. We also discover how important it is for the team to find harmony, rhythm, and balance. There is an illustration for all of us there as well. When my life feels out of rhythm, it is easy for frustration and anxiety to make their way into my psyche. I'm going to guess many of you know this feeling as well. Falling out of balance with one another creates friction. The Apostle Paul, writing to the early church in Rome, reminds us to "live in harmony with one another; do not be arrogant." There is more, but you can see he gives us practical advice!
First Community Church 06-09-24 Glen Miles -Sermon Reel Theology Start Wars - A New Hope by First Community Church
First Community Church 05.26.24 Mary Kate Buchanan -Sermon, Somethings Missing, It Matters by First Community Church
I'll conclude my sermon series, Somehow, Love Will Find a Way, with Part 3, "Courage is Fear that Has Said Its Prayers," based on 2 Timothy 1: 3-7. The scripture reading comes from a letter written by the Apostle Paul to a young pastor named Timothy. It is excellent advice on leading a church and living a Christ-like life. In Sunday's reading, Paul reminds Timothy and us that "God did not give us a spirit of fear but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline." This is easily one of my top ten favorite verses in the Bible. Like on the day of Pentecost and the day of creation, God's Spirit comes to you and me amid our chaotic lives with a clear and amazing promise that we do not have to live in fear. Sometimes, I need a daily reminder of this great truth!
Author of Without Buddha I Could not be a Christian.Part 4 Making Peace and Being Peace
First Community Church 05.05.24 Glen Miles Sermon, Somehow Love Will Find a Way by First Community Church
First Community Spiritual Life and Learning Center Presents; Conversations With Paul Knitter Part 1 by First Community Church
First Community Spiritual Life and Learning Center; Conversations with Paul Knitter P2 by First Community Church
First Community Church 04.14.24 Rev Dr. Otis Moss III -Sermon, From Miseducation to Liberation. by First Community Church
First Community Church 04.14.24 Rev Dr. Otis Moss III -Sermon, These are my Confessions by First Community Church
First Community Church 04.07.24 Mexico Mission Sarah Kientz -Sermon Turning a Little Into A Lot by First Community Church
First Community Easter Sunday 03.21.24 Glen Miles -Sermon, And I Hope by First Community Church
Palm SundayHoly Week begins this weekend with Palm Sunday, the day we recall Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. My sermon, "Songs of Loudest Praise," is based on John 12:12-16. John's version of this story is briefer than the other three gospels. It is a bit quieter, too. The disciples are confused; the crowd is there for another miracle or two, but a shadow is clouding the day. The reader knows the cross looms in the future for Jesus, but the crowds and the followers have no idea. Our worship service begins, like the parade back in Jesus' day 2000 years ago, with palms waving, people singing, and the congregation celebrating. But that same cloud from 2000 years ago is present as well. In the sermon, I'll look ahead and wonder with you, where are we in this story? Are we ready to follow Jesus in the name of love? Are we prepared to give ourselves to each other and the world in the name of grace? These are not easy questions to answer, nor is this journey to the empty tomb on Easter Sunday an easy one to embark upon. Like most things that matter, though, the journey begins when we take the first step.
Scripture lessons and discussion topics on our journey through Holy Week by Mary Kate Buchanan.
This Sunday's sermon, "Teach Me," is part 5 in our Lent sermon series, Wandering Heart, and is based on Jesus' well-known response to how often we should forgive. As you may recall, he said, "Seventy times seven." Or, the Greek is a bit unclear in the text, he may have said, "Seventy-seven times." Either way, it is a huge number, much greater than what any of us would typically do. Jesus' point is not about math. It is about the nature of forgiveness, and the role grace plays when forgiveness is needed. And we all need forgiveness at some time in our lives. Stanley Hauerwas, a brilliant theologian who seems to irritate evangelical and progressive Christians equally (and who is also one of my all-time favorite thinkers), says, "The forgiveness that marks the church is a politics that offers an alternative to the politics based on envy, hatred, and revenge." He wrote those words back in 2006, but it feels like his idea applies to us today, doesn't it? This sermon has been a challenge to write. I've enjoyed the opportunity to wrestle with it, though, and I am hopeful it will be a good word for our day. I'm looking forward to sharing it with you on Sunday at 9 am in Grace Hall at FC North, 10 am in the sanctuary at FC South, or 11 am in the sanctuary at FC North. The music, as always, will be wonderful this weekend at all three services. Bring a friend, sit near the front, and come prepared to experience a fresh wind of the Spirit, no matter which service you attend!
First Community Church 03.13.24 Glen Miles, Sacred Doorways, The Study of Celtic Christianity by First Community Church
This Sunday, we continue the sermon series Wandering Heart with Part Four: "I'm Fixed Upon It," based on Matthew 16: 21-23. This is the famous story of when Peter tried to tell Jesus what to do and what not to do. Peter is confused. He is creating a stumbling block for Jesus. Jesus replies, rather harshly, "Get Thee Behind Me, Satan!" It sounds harsher in the old King James Version, doesn't it? It's got to be a difficult moment for Peter. Just before this story, Peter proclaimed his love and loyalty to Jesus. It must feel like his world is unraveling.Have you ever had an earthshaking, life-changing event come at you out of nowhere? Have you ever faced inconvenient truths or difficult facts about yourself that challenged your faith or view of life? Jesus' rebuke is harsh but clear. It is never easy to face hard truths, but when we do, we may find ourselves stronger in the long run. The best news is the simple fact that Jesus' last word is always one of grace and generosity.
First Community Church 03.06.24 Glen Miles Sacred Doorways, The Study of Celtic Christianity Part 3 by First Community Church
First Community Church 03.03.24 Mary Kate Buchanan -Pastoral Prayer by First Community Church
Glen presents the third installment of his Wandering Heart Lenten Sermon Series, Thy Redeeming Love
First Community Church 02.28.24 Glen Miles -Sacred Doorways The Study Of Celtic Christianity P2 by First Community Church
First Community Church 02.25,24 Sarah Kientz -The Wandering Heart, Wilderness First Aid by First Community Church
First Community Church 02.25.24 Seth Stearns -Pastoral Prayer by First Community Church
Adults are invited to stay for a new Bible study led by Rev. Glen Miles. Glen says this about the study: "I will begin a new study titled Sacred Doorways: A Study of Celtic Christianity. I've been fascinated by Celtic Christianity since my seminary days. A beautiful Celtic Cross sat atop the chapel of the school. My interest was rekindled during the trip Julie and I took to Scotland last summer. During our trip, we spent a day on the Isle of Iona, where it is said St. Columba brought Celtic Christianity to Scotland. I'm looking forward to offering these sessions. "
First Community Church 02.18.24 Glen Miles -Sermon The Wandering Heart Part I Jesus Sought Me by First Community Church
First Community Church 02.18.24 Sarah Kientz -Pastoral Prayer by First Community Church
First Community Church 02.11.24 Mary Kate Buchanan -Pastoral Prayer by First Community Church
This Sunday, I am preaching the sermon "If." It is a keyword in the story of Jesus' healing of a leper in Mark 1: 40-45. Essentially, the man with leprosy (in antiquity, the word leprosy was a catchall for any skin disease) truly believes Jesus has the ability and will do so. A New Testament scholar says the verse could easily be read like this: "If you want to (and you do), you are able to cleanse me." The man with leprosy is challenging Jesus. Jesus accepts the challenge, knowing it will change his life. This story shows that Jesus is willing to go where the people are. As followers of Jesus, the church community is called to go to where the people are as well. It is often a difficult road to follow, but as the leper knows, we have the ability to go with Jesus.This is a challenging sermon, but it is almost always a challenge to follow in the way of Jesus. At the center of the challenge is a call to live with hope for today. I am looking forward to sharing this message with you.
Glen in Part IV reviews the prior statement setting the stage for the final statement "God Doesn't Give You More Than You Can Handle"
This Sunday's sermon is titled "Overwhelmed?" I cannot count the number of times in the last few years I've heard the word, overwhelmed, as the answer to "How are you?" Parents, kids, old, young, spouses, singles, you name the category, and you will find many who feel swamped by life.The sermon is based on Mark 1: 29-39. The text tells us about the beginning of Jesus' ministry. His days are filled with healing and teaching. One morning, he awakens while it is still dark and heads to a deserted place for quiet and prayer. It's been an overwhelming start to his work. He knows he needs a chance to recharge. If Jesus needs a moment, surely you and I do as well!
Glen delves into the Biblical Instruction and the various paths they can be interpreted in painful and malicious ways.This weeks statement, God Said it, I Believe it, Thats good enough for me.
Join with Ministerial Intern Jennifer Garvin as she presents the congregational concerns of our days.
General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ, Reverend Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson shares her insight of the Biblical Passages from 1st Corinthians 8:1-13 in "When Certainty Fails".
Glen shares the second installment of his Bible Study, discussing the biblical basis and refutation of Hate the Sin, Love the Sinner.
take this moment apart to reflect on gratitude and the love which embraces us. Reverend Mary Kate Buchanan shares this offering from our 10AM Sunday worship service.
I'll Be There For You Sermon Series ConcludesThis Sunday, I will finish my sermon series, I'll Be There For You, with Part 3 - "Reality is an Acquired Taste." As you may recall, the series is inspired by the tremendously popular TV show Friends and the memoir of one of the show's stars, Matthew Perry, Friends, Lovers, and The Big Terrible Thing. This final sermon is also inspired by Jesus' touching reminder, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Jesus wants us to pay attention to the things that matter most, recognizing that God's love inspires us and motivates us through life's toughest challenges.
This Wednesday 1.17.24 at 5:30 pm at The Gathering in Grace Hall at FC North, I will begin a series of studies titled That's Not in the Bible. Some commonly used phrases are often mistaken as biblical quotes like, "God doesn't give us more than we can handle," and "Hate the sin, love the sinner." These and others like them can be spiritually and emotionally damaging. The Gathering begins with a complimentary light supper at 5:30 pm, a brief worship service at 5:45, and adult studies and activities for children at 6. If you've never been, this is a good week to try it out!
This Sunday, my sermon series, I'll Be There for You, continues with Part 2, "God Is Everywhere." This series is inspired by the sitcom Friends and the memoir of Matthew Perry, one of the show's stars. This week's sermon title is a quote from Mr. Perry's book. Despite the raw language and multiple sad stories, a surprising amount of spiritual hope is woven throughout the pages of his memoir. We will also hear from two of my favorite scriptures, Psalm 139 and 1 Peter 3, which speak metaphorically of God's willingness to go to hell to find us if necessary.
New Sermon Series - I'll Be There for YouI begin a new three-part sermon series on January 7 titled I'll Be There for You. You may recognize the title, the iconic theme song for the popular '90s sitcom Friends. The inspiration for the series comes from reading former Friends star Matthew Perry's autobiography, Friends, Lovers, and The Big Terrible Thing. I'm approaching this series through the TV show and Matthew Perry's poignantly haunting memoir. His open and honest approach to his struggles provides valuable insights.Part 1 is titled "Can I Interest You in a Sarcastic Comment?" That is a quote from Chandler, the Matthew Perry character, who unfortunately does not have much wisdom but has a lot of sarcasm! The sermon is also based on John 15: 12-17, which contains the beautiful words of Jesus to his disciples: " I do not call you servants any longer...but I have called you friends." Emily Rogers, our Director of Digital Content, Strategy, and Worship Coordinator, noted that this series will help us see how this ancient word still has powerful meaning in our contemporary world.
For those who have experienced deep loss or personal struggle, the joy of the holiday season can feel out of reach. Our Longest Night service holds space for prayer, reflection, and remembrance amidst the twinkle lights and holiday hustle and bustle.Revs. Mary Kate Buchanan and Sarah Kientz will host this service which includes readings, music, and several spiritual practices. Participants will be invited to light candles, write prayers, receive personal prayer, or simply find quiet reflection. This is a wonderful service for all ages; families are welcome.We hope this special worship can be a gift amid what can be a difficult season for so many. Bring your grief, weariness, and fatigue, and meet us in a space of nonjudgment, peace, and healing.
First Community Church 12.31.23 Glen Miles -Sermon, When the Extraordinary Breaks into the Ordinary by First Community Church
Reverend Dr. Glen Miles delivers his Christmas Eve Sermon "Rejoice" from the 9PM Festival of Lessons and Carols Service
We continue our Advent sermon series, How Does a Weary World Rejoice, with Part 2 - "We Find Joy in Connection." We will pay close attention to a conversation between Mary, the young woman expecting to deliver Jesus, and her cousin Elizabeth, an older woman expecting to deliver John the Baptist. If we look carefully enough, we will see they find joy in connecting.
The season of Advent begins this Sunday. Advent is more than a time of preparation to celebrate the arrival of the Christ-Child. Advent comes with an invitation to you and me to reflect on our lives. In the very center of our being, who is God calling us to be? And where does the world need each of us the most?Our Advent sermon series, How Does a Weary World Rejoice?, asks us to consider similar questions. Is there room for joy in a world worn down by fear and sorrow? Is there space for tranquility? Maybe you are tempted to avoid questions like these. I don't blame you. So am I, especially at Christmas time. The questions are frightening. However, as Brené Brown says in her book Atlas of the Heart, "Avoidance will make you feel less vulnerable in the short run, but it will never make you less afraid." In this sermon series, we will review the parallel birth stories of Jesus and his cousin, John the Baptist. In both, we find a host of human emotions: grief, fear, joy, sorrow, regret, happiness, love, and more. Part 1 - "We Acknowledge Our Weariness" looks at John the Baptist's birth announcement. An angel appears to the priest Zechariah to tell him that his wife will bear a child. The couple is elderly. They had dreamed of having a child but had given up on that hope long ago. Can you relate? Have you had your hopes dashed, dreams squashed, and ideas ignored? When regret rules our lives, hearing or seeing any good news is sometimes difficult. Acknowledging our weariness can be the first step to opening our eyes and minds to see the gifts around us. I cannot wait to share this message with you!
First Community Church 11.26.23 Sarah Kientz -Sermon, The Least of These by First Community Church
Worship this SundayThis Sunday, November 19, I will conclude my sermon series, How to Dress for the End of the World, with Part Two - "Wrap Yourselves in Faith, Hope, and Love," based on 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-11. We read the first half of the reading last week, where Paul invites them to recognize they are "children of the light." In other words, they will not be shaped by fear and anxiety. They will not let the pressures of the world form them. It is a beautiful demonstration of brilliant pastoral skill. Instead of criticizing them for their fear and worry, he lifts them beyond these feelings to a new way of seeing their situation.In the second half of the reading, which we will read on Sunday, he highlights the three great gifts they have received and are already putting into practice: faith, hope, and love. Their faith is in the goodness of God's love. Their hope is seen in the ongoing promise of God's presence in their lives. And their love is embodied in how they care for each other and the world. At first glance, it feels like a text about the end of the world (it still sort of is), but Paul assures them of this: they already have all they need to take on whatever happens next!
a brief two-week sermon series titled What to Wear for the End of the World, based on 1 Thessalonians 5. Whenever there is unrest and violence in the Middle East, there is heightened anxiety about the end of the world or, for evangelical and fundamentalist Christians, concern about the return of Jesus. This is nothing new. The same concerns existed in the Apostle Paul's day, too. In perhaps the very first letter written to a young early church, Paul assures them they do not have to be afraid. He suggests that no matter what happens if they clothe themselves in faith, hope, and love, they will be ready for anything!
First Community Church 11.05.23 Sarah Kientz -Sermon, Made Well by First Community Church
First Community Church 10.29.23 Mary Kate Buchanan -Sermon, From Everlasting To Everlasting by First Community Church
First Community Church 10.22.23 Glen Miles -Sermon, Its A Trap! by First Community Church
Glen delivers his sermon "The Outrage of Grace" inspired by the text from Matthew 22:1-14
Glen Delivers Part 4 of his sermon series Belonging, A Tapestry of Service, Study and Giving.
Glen shares Part 3 of his Sermon Series "Belonging, A Tapestry of Service, Study and Giving; Love Centers Us"
Glen delivers Part 2 in his sermon series; Belonging A Tapestry of Service, Study and Giving.
Glen begins his fall Sermon Series: Belonging, A Tapestry of Service, Study, and Giving with Part One: Life Together.
First Community Church 09.10.23 Glen Miles Sermon -When Love Is The Way by First Community Church
First Community Church 09.03.23 Glen Miles -Sermon Homeward Bound by First Community Church
The second sermon in the Summer Sermon Series "Like A Bridge Over Troubled Waters" Glen continues in finding solace and guidance in a troubled world.
The first of the Summer Sermon; Series Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Glen explores the spiritual connection Simon and Garfunkel with selected Biblical Readings.
First Community Church 07.30.23 11am Jim Long -Sermon All Things Work For Good by First Community Church
First Community Church Alan V. Harris -Sermon Objects in The Kindom May Appear Sparser Than They Are by First Community Church
First COmmunity Church 07.16.23 11am TIm Vansant -Sermon Upside Down by First Community Church
First Community Church 07.09.23 Mary Kate Buchanan -Sermon The Sent Church by First Community Church
First Community Church 07.02.23 Timothy Vansant -Sermon Faith and The Fourth of July by First Community Church
First Community Church 06.25.23 Deborah Lindsay- Cultivate "Don't Know" Mind by First Community Church
First Community Church 06.18.23 Deborah Lindsay Find A Place of Rest by First Community Church
Part 2 in the Sermon Series; The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About LIving Fully
First Community 05.21.23 Tim Vansant -Sermon -Do You Love Your Neighbor by First Community Church
First Community Church 05.07.23 Sarah Kientz -Sermon A Spiritual House by First Community Church
Making Friends With God and Each OtherPart 2: "Wide-Eyed Friendship"https://vimeo.com/822757893
Making Friends With God and Each OtherPart 1: "Facing Our Doubts Together"https://vimeo.com/820314402
First Community Church 04.02.23 Glen Miles -Sermon Palm Sunday; Who is This? by First Community Church
Part 5 God Weeps of the Lenten Sermon Series; Soul Training Opening Body, Mind, and Spirit to The Way of Peace
Part 4 of Glen's Lenten Sermon Series, Soul Training; Opening Body, Mind and Spirit to the Way of Peace.
Part 3 in Glens Lenten Sermon Series; Soul Training Opening Body, Mind and Spirit to the Way of Peace
First Community 03.05.23 Glen Miles -Sermon Soul Training Part 2 Learning to Walk In The Park by First Community Church
A Lenten Sermon Series Soul Training; Opening Mind Body and Spirit to the Way of PeacePart 1 Bedeviled
First Community Church 2.19.23 Glen Miles Sermon -The 23rd: Part II by First Community Church
First Community Church 2.05.23 Rev Sara Kientz Sermon -Siblings in Christ by First Community Church
First Community Church 01.29.23 Glen Miles -Sermon Where Troubles Melt Like Lemon Drops by First Community Church
First Community Glen Miles 1.22.23 Sermon -Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My! by First Community Church
First Community 12.24.22 Christmas Eve 9PM Homily Glen Miles -Night of Nights by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.18.22 Glen Miles Sermon -Star of Love by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.11.22 Glen Miles Sermon -Star of Joy by First Community Church
First Community Church 12.4.22 Glen Miles Sermon -Star of Hope by First Community Church
First Community Church 11.27.22 Glen Miles Sermon -Star of Wonder Star of Light by First Community Church
First Community Church 11.20.22 Glen Miles Sermon -Gratitude and Grace by First Community Church
First Community Church 11.13.22 Tim Vansant Sermon -Even those people!?! by First Community Church
Reverend Sarah Kientz dialogues contemporary gender, faith and trans identity issues with noted theologian Austen Harke.Austen Hartke is the author of Transforming: The Bible and the Lives of Transgender Christians, a book on theology and personal narratives published by Westminster John Knox Press in 2018. He is also the founder and director of Transmission Ministry Collective, an online community dedicated to the spiritual care, faith formation, and leadership potential of transgender and gender-expansive Christians. Austen is a graduate of Luther Seminary’s Master of Arts program in Old Testament/Hebrew Bible Studies, and is the winner of the 2014 John Milton Prize in Old Testament Writing from the same institution.
First Community Church 10.30.22 Glen Miles Sermon -Grace Happens by First Community Church
First Community Church 10.23.22 Rev Sarah Kientz Sermon -Thank God by First Community Church
First Community Church 10.16.22 Rev. Mary Kate Buchanan Sermon -Persistence and Resistance by First Community Church
Part One of the Sermon Series:The Giving Life -Learning to Follow the Path of Generosity
First Community Church 9.11.22 Glen Miles Sermon -If Grace is True by First Community Church
First Community Church 9,11.22 Pastoral Prayer Rev. Sarah Kientz by First Community Church
First Community Church Sermon 09-04-22 Glen Miles -Becoming More Than Yourself by First Community Church
First Community Sermon 08.28.22 Rabbi Rami -I and The Father are One by First Community Church
First Community Sermon: 08.07.22 11AM Glen Miles - Keep Your Shirt On by First Community Church
First Community 7.31.22 11AM Sermon Tim Vansant - Joy as an Act of Resistance by First Community Church
Faith Kit Sermon; Part 6 - Want to Pray Like Jesus? Here's How! by First Community Church
Faith Kit Sermon: Part 5 - Distracted? Tips on How to Focus on What's Important by First Community Church
Adam Hamilton is the founding pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas. He grew up in the Kansas City area, earned a B.A. degree in Pastoral Ministry from Oral Roberts and a Master of Divinity Degree from Southern Methodist University, where he was awarded the B’nai B’rith Award in Social Ethics.He was named one of the “Ten people to watch in America’s spiritual landscape” by Religion and Ethics Newsweekly. For his work in racial reconciliation Adam was awarded the Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Award. Named United Methodist Person of the Year for 2012 by the United Methodist Reporter for his leadership within the United Methodist Church. He’s received numerous other awards for community service.Hamilton launched Church of the Resurrection with his wife and two children in 1990. It has since grown to over 20,000 adults and children in 2018 under his leadership. Today the church is the largest United Methodist Church in the United States with an average weekend attendance of over 12,000.The congregation has a three-fold focus: Connecting with thinking people and inviting them to become followers of Jesus Christ, engaging in acts of justice and mercy in the community, and working to renew the United Methodist Church.Adam has written over 25 books, published by Abingdon Press and Harper Collins, and Convergent, including:· When Christians Get it Wrong· Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White· The Way: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus· Making Sense of the Bible· Revival· Unafraid: Living with Courage and Hope in Uncertain TimesAdam and LaVon have been married over 35 years and have two adult daughters and a granddaughter.
Faith Kit Sermon: Part 4- Living Mercifully, Even When Life's got You Down by First Community Church
In April 2017, the Congregational Board of Country Club Christian Church called Rev. Carla Aday as the church’s eighth Senior Minister. Rev. Aday has served the church since 1988 in various capacities, most recently as the Executive Minister in charge of administration, finance and stewardship in addition to preaching, teaching and planning. As the Senior Associate Minister from 2004-2014, her responsibilities included developing mission partnerships, adult spiritual formation, leadership development, ministry planning and staff supervision. When she was hired in 1988, she was the church’s first female minister.Rev. Aday holds a Masters of Divinity degree from Yale University where she was honored with the Mersick Prize for effective public address and preaching. She is an experienced teacher and trainer, holding licensing and certification with various curricula.She has led 20 mission trips both internationally and domestically, including trips to Nicaragua and India. She is a member of the Association of Disciples Pastors in Theological Dialogue, past member of Clergy Spiritual Direction, and has previously served on the Administrative Committee and General Board for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), as Moderator of Greater Kansas City Region of the Christian Church, on the Homeland Ministries Board, as a board member of the Girl Scouts – Mid America Chapter, and as a member of the MORE2 Clergy Caucus.She has served as a volunteer at Della Lamb Community Services, Argentine Middle School, Notre Dame de Sion School, Habitat for Humanity, and Marillac Center for Children. In 2017 she spent one month as a volunteer at Mediterranean Hope, a project working to address the dramatic refugee migration by sea from North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East towards Italy.Rev. Aday was the recipient an Eli Lilly Clergy Renewal Grant for a 2002 sabbatical program in Great Britain, has conducted independent study in theology with professors from Yale Divinity School and St. Paul School of Theology, has competed a writing course with Yale Divinity School, and has written and contributed to numerous publications.Rev. Aday and her husband Dr. Dave Ehman have three adult children, Connor Ehman, Kyle Ehman, Karmen Ehman Major, and five grandchildren.
Jim, born in Des Moines, Iowa, started heading west for undergraduate study at the University of Colorado, Boulder and graduate study in Berkeley. He received his Doctorate of Ministry from Andover Newton Seminary and was ordained in the United Church of Christ in 1990.In 1993, after serving churches in Berkeley and Corona Del Mar, California, he became the Sr. Minister of the West Concord Union Church, in Massachusetts. In 1999 he became the Sr. Minister at the Congregational Church of San Mateo, California. He also served as an adjunct faculty member at Pacific School of Religion; as president of the Peninsula Clergy Network which links 400 clergy with other area civic leaders; and as a board member of the Mission Hospice of San Mateo County. He has also served as a guest lecturer at Tufts University, Andover Newton Theological School, American Baptist School and Pacific School of Religion, as well as a keynote speaker for numerous denominational events.When Jim is not at church he loves to play golf, basketball, handball, tennis, or just about any sport.
Faith Kit Sermon: Part 3- Jesus Taught His Followers, Here's What You Should Know by First Community Church
Faith Kit; Part 2-When Jesus Comes to Visit, Takeaways on Healing by First Community Church
Russ began as the Senior Minister of University Christian Church on the first Sunday in Advent in 2017. Russ’s education includes receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree from our neighboring Texas Christian University (1990), Master of Divinity degree from San Francisco Theological Seminary (1994), and Doctor of Ministry from Columbia Theological Seminary (2004). Russ was ordained in 1995, and has served churches in Texas, Georgia, and California. Prior to coming to UCC, he served as the Senior Minister to First Christian Church of Concord, CA (2005–2017), the church where he was baptized as a youth.Russ focuses his ministry on preaching and loves speaking with people about the heart-waking, soul-changing God who is capable of turning their lives inside out and the world upside down!Russ is married to Kelli, his best friend of over 40 years, and together they have a blended family of four—twins Jake and Ella, Abigail, Caroline, and family dog, Poppy. Beyond his commitment to ministry, Russ is an avid runner, cyclist, and swimmer. In addition to finishing 8 marathons and dozens of half marathons, Russ has competed in triathlons and completed an Ironman in 2016. He also enjoys yoga, golf, and being involved in overall fitness. Last but not least, Russ is an avid TCU Horned Frog fan!
The Reverend Dr. John F. Ross is the Executive Director of The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Program at Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota. The Heritage Program is an international initiative for individuals and institutions to explore the artistic and spiritual beauty of The Saint John’s Bible—the first hand-written, hand-illuminated monumental Bible in 500 years.Prior to his work at Saint John’s, he served for 18 years as the Senior Minister of Wayzata Community Church—a 3,000-member United Church of Christ congregation in Wayzata, Minnesota. John began his 30 years of ordained ministry at First Community Church, Columbus, Ohio where he was Senior Associate Minister for 12 years.John received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1989 from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He completed his Master of Divinity in 1995 at the Methodist Theological School of Ohio, and his Doctor of Ministry in May 2004 through the Chicago Theological Seminary.John is married to his college sweetheart, Sheila, and together they enjoy a full and fast-paced life with their four grown kids: Brady, Madeleine, Anne Marie, and Logan.
Meet your host, Glen Miles: Dr. R. Glen Miles is the Senior Minister of First Community Church in Columbus, Ohio beginning in March 2017. First Community is a multi-site church with north and south locations in Columbus and Camp Akita in Logan, Ohio, a ministry of the church that welcomes over 1800 youth campers each year.This 3000-member congregation has a long and storied history as a place of welcome and acceptance.With a focus on meaningful worship and effective preaching, Glen’s dynamic, powerful styledemonstrates his philosophy that the mission of the church is to proclaim the unconditional love of Godavailable for all people. He is a prominent resource for issues regarding congregational guidance andgeneral church administration. Glen regularly teaches classes in the areas of Biblical interpretation,community building, life transitions, ethics, religion, and society.Glen holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Claremont School of Theology in Claremont, Calif., a Master of Divinity degree from Emmanuel Christian Seminary in Johnson City, Tenn., and a Bachelor of Science degree from Bushnell University in Eugene, Ore. Glen has served churches in Kansas City, Missouri; Atlanta, Georgia; San Diego, California; Concord, California; Johnson City, Tennessee; and Hanford, California.He and his wife Julie have two sons, Nate, and Steven.Glen's guest this week is Amy Butler. Pastor Amy believes deeply that courageous communities of people who live with tenacious love can change the world. Much of her career has been spent helping build communities of radical witness in the institutional church. She currently leads National City Christian Church as intentional interim Senior Minister.Amy most recently served until 2019 as the seventh Senior Minister and first woman at the helm of The Riverside Church in the City of New York. She holds degrees from Baylor University, the International Baptist Theological Seminary, and Wesley Theological Seminary. Pastor Amy’s professional ministry career began as the director of a homeless shelter for women in New Orleans, Louisiana; she later became Associate Pastor of Membership and Mission at St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church in the city of New Orleans. In 2003, Butler was called to the position of Senior Minister of Calvary Baptist Church in Washington, D.C.’s Chinatown, where she was also the first woman to lead that historic congregation.Though leading institutions of faith in this moment can be one of the most challenging leadership tasks around, she is optimistic about the impact faith communities have on the world.When she’s not busy leading, teaching, preaching or writing, Pastor Amy enjoys exploring the city wearing a mask, and hanging out with friends, at an appropriate social distance. She is an avid reader and loves to write, recently completing her first memoir which will be published by Penguin Random House Books. Pastor Amy is a single mom to three amazing young adults who are each making their way in the world; they are her favorites. She played the cello in high school but that has absolutely no relevance to her current life. Her children would say that her status as a licensed motorcyclist is the direct result of a midlife crisis, but she disagrees. And she hates exercise with a passion, perpetually bitter about a metabolism that requires it.
Glen continues his Lenten Sermon Series "From the Wilderness to the Way" Part 2 Sent to Save
Glen starts his Lenten Sermon Series From the Wilderness to the Way with; The Day the Devil Came to Church