Doylestown Presbyterian Church : Recent Episodes
Doylestown Presbyterian Church
Welcome to the Doylestown Presbyterian Church podcast. Each week, our Sunday sermon will be posted. Whether you listen in the car, during a walk, or at home, we hope it can bring you joy and comfort as you go about your day!
In the sermon, John Willingham reflects on the full arc of his 36-year career as a Minister of Word and Sacrament. In it, he reflects upon the thousands of individuals who have helped shape his personal faith and service as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
In his penultimate sermon as an installed pastor, John Willingham focuses on the years at DPC. Join us as he reflects on the special nature of this journey together and his hopes for our body of faith in the years ahead.
Join in this week as Becca Bateman highlights Paul's encouragement to the church of Philippi. They are people like us, trusting God through all seasons of life.
Many children learn the bedtime prayer of “Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep…” Many worship services end with a benediction that starts “The Lord bless you and keep you…” What are we affirming and seeking when we speak of God as one who keeps us? In the sermon, John Willingham will ponder that question as we reflect on two passages of Scripture that speak of One who “keeps” his people. John closes his sermon with a video from The United Methodist Church, which can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/qBJgqMpKh3M
In the sermon, John Willingham reflects on the third letter of John and a key introduction the Apostle makes through it. Join us as we ponder the important place of introductions still in the life of any church.
In the sermon, John Willingham focuses on the Apostle John’s second letter where he is worried that some are diluting the Gospel message. In particular, he encourages first-century Christians to abide in the teaching of Christ without going beyond it. Join us as we ponder what that instruction might say to us two millennia later as part of a faith tradition that is “always being reformed.”
While the story of Jonah is often relegated to children's Bible lessons, it does offer a glimpse of the tension between God’s judgement and God’s mercy. Listen in as Pauline Sexton explores these intriguing themes in her sermon.
In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on a moment when the Apostle Paul praises some members of the church in Thessalonica and scolds others. Join us as we explore the reason for those differing messages and then consider what his 1st Century words might say to some 21st Century Christians.
In his sermon, John Willingham concludes the gap in his Old Testament preaching history by focusing on a passage from the Book of Habakkuk. In that account from the 7th century B.C., the prophet bearing that name shares a vision from God that offers clues about the future of that nation and believer. Join us as we listen in and ponder what that moment from the past has to say to us about the clues our Maker provides for us still.
In the sermon, John Willingham reflects on two Biblical passages that speak of a future end to all hardship. Join us as we ponder those reminders of God’s promises to us and how we best wait until the change appears.
In his sermon, John Willingham reflects on what might be the most challenging words Jesus ever uttered. Join us as we listen in on his conversation with the rich, young ruler, seeking a word of hope in spite of the difficult standard for discipleship that Jesus names.
In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on a parable where Jesus contrasts the prayers of a Pharisee and tax collector. The distinction between the two could not be any sharper and offers insights as to how we carry-out our own deeds of faith. Join us as we listen in and seek the word that each of us most needs to hear.
Join as Becca Bateman reflects on the parable of the Wedding Banquet from the Gospel of Luke. With All Saints Day coming upon us, we will take time to reflect on how, throughout the ages, the people of the church have been called to a life of risk-taking mercy and humility. Then, we ponder what is our calling today?
In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on one of Jesus' most challenging parables. What does his image of a "worthless slave" have to say to us as Christians? Join us as we ponder together.
In the sermon, John Willingham focuses on a parable told when Jesus was a dinner guest in the home of a Pharisee. His story offers a word about the nature of salvation as he describes another banquet where some refuse to attend and others are compelled to be part. Join us as we consider what he might be saying to us as believers who also play a key role yet in how others experience the Good News of Jesus.
In the sermon, John Willingham focuses on a day when Jesus responds to the question that endures to this day about human suffering and whether or not those moments reflect God’s punishment. While clearly saying “no,” Jesus then tells the crowd to repent lest similar outcomes befall them. Join us as we ponder what might have been his meaning in that curious response.
Becca Bateman explores the true peace Jesus gives and the nourishment we need for the journey as we celebrate together World Communion Sunday.
John Willingham's sermon focuses on a parable from Jesus that teaches us about prayer. What does his tale say about the times when we ask, search, and knock before God? Join us as we ponder that and other questions related to this vital part of our life as disciples.
In the sermon, John Willingham reflects on some challenging words from Jesus about what it means to be one of his disciples. Join us (on the street!) as we ponder his instructions and consider how we might best respond as a new program year at DPC begins.
This week, join Pastor Becca Bateman as we look at the familiar passage in which a party is thrown once the lost item is found. The cost of the party is great, not because of the price, but because of the great risk in having a party where all are welcome.
In the sermon, John Willingham concludes our summer-long series on the book of Judges by finishing the story of Samson. Not only do those events conclude the life of that complicated judge, but they mark the end to God’s experiment of seeking to keep the people faithful through such leaders. Join us as we ponder and give thanks for what God did next.
In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on the day Samson loses his amazing physical strength. It came after repeatedly being asked why he was so strong. Join us as we ponder what he learned after his power disappeared and what that moment has to say about the source of our strength, too.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our focus on Samson by reflecting on a troubling glimpse of escalating violence and retaliation brought about by that ancient judge. Alongside those images, though, we will hear Jesus speak of a better way. Join us as we ponder how his words might take hold in our own lives.
In his sermon this week, John Willingham reflects on the first glimpse of the judge Samson as an adult, and it isn’t good. Instead, over the course of the narrative there are threats and acts of violence, taunting and accusations, rage and marital abandonment. What could that storyline possibly say to us as believers in the 21st century? Join us as we ponder one possibility together.
The journey through Judges continues in the 13th chapter, beginning the story of Samson. His birth was announced by an angel and he was destined to be used by God to rescue Israel from the oppression of the Philistines. Pauline Sexton preaches on another ancient story that teaches us about the faithfulness of God to a nation that was constantly a disappointment.
Join in as Becca Bateman reflects on the triumphs of Gideon (as read by Lay Leader Galen Hays) and how they were never meant to point to a human as the hero, but to God. In what ways does this also show the greater story arc that God appears in ways no one expects?
In the sermon, John Willingham continues our month-long focus on the Israelite judge Gideon. After hesitating, reducing his troops and learning of a dream’s interpretation he finally launches the battle for which he had been chosen. As he sends out the troops, he has them shout out words that point to the partnership behind that moment and our lives of faith, too. Join us as we ponder the character of that divine-human relationship upon our days.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our focus on Gideon, recalling the moment when that timid judge came up with two ways for God to guarantee success in the battle ahead. In both moments, the Divine One responded in just the way that leader asked. What does that ancient moment have to say to those times when we seek God’s involvement and reassurance still? Join us as we ponder together.
In the sermon, John Willingham continues the summer-long look at the Book of Judges and focuses this week on Gideon and the moment when he is given the second name of Jerubbaal. What does that second moniker say about him and us as people of faith? Join us as we ponder together.
Continuing our focus in Judges this week, Pauline Sexton looks at Gideon, a farmer who was called by God to lead Israel to liberation. He was an unlikely leader and he had a lot to learn. Join us as we reflect on his story.
Becca Bateman preaches on Judges 5 thinking about not only what God is doing in this story but also the ways God heals us, our communities, and societies from the ways sin has caused brokenness.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our summer series by reflecting on the witness of the only female judge in ancient Israel, a prophetess named Deborah. What does her response to a fearful general long ago say to the moments when we are troubled, too? Join us as we ponder her example together.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our summer look at the Book of Judges by focusing on a cycle of trouble and heartache for the Israelites of old. John also reads from Ephesians Chapter 4. Using that Biblical pattern, he invites us to consider a new approach on gun laws following the most recent cycle of violence in our land. Join us for this time of collective pondering as we seek to find a better way.
In his sermon, John Willingham begins our summer preaching series drawn from the Old Testament book of Judges. In our first text, we are given a glimpse of the precarious nature of the Christian story. Join us as we are reminded of our essential part in sharing the faith with one another and those who come next.
Due to technical issues, John's May 22 sermon could not be shared last week, but we are happy to be able to offer it to you now In the sermon, John Willingham reflects on the recent death of his mother by recalling the last trip they made together; a journey made possible by DPC.
This week Pauline Sexton preaches on John 17 in the wake of days of hatred, violence, and heartbreak. In this prayer, Jesus, just hours before his death, prays that the world would know of the love of God through how we love one another. If “thoughts and prayers” seem not enough is love the way?
Our Scripture Lesson comes from John 10:22-30. In the sermon, John Willingham focuses on the moment when religious leaders come to Jesus and demand “If you are the Messiah tell us plainly.” In response, Jesus speaks of his unique connection with God. Join us as we ponder the significance of his words for our lives of faith today.
In this special Youth Sunday edition of the DPC Podcast, Riley reads from 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Olivia offers her reflections of growing up in the church, and our Youth Choir offers us a beautiful rendition of "Look at the World"
Lay Leader Marie Stevens reads from John 21:1-14. In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on the third moment in John’s gospel when the risen Christ appears to his disciples. It begins with a night of unsuccessful fishing and ends with a breakfast over a charcoal fire. Join us as we allow that Biblical moment to help us ponder the times in our own lives when Jesus shows up, too.
The good news of the Resurrection was for all creation. As Earth Day reminds us to care for our earth, join Pauline Sexton as we look at our responsibility to care for the world as we live in witness to how the Resurrection impacts our life and choices.
Pastor John Willingham reads from John 20:1-10. In the sermon, John focuses on one of the men who, upon hearing Mary Magdalene’s news, rushed to the empty tomb on the first Easter morning. In the narrative, we see ways that unnamed disciple models faith and still falls short. Join us as we ponder his response and what that imperfect example might be saying to us.
Lay Leader Doug Barnett reads from John, Chapter 19. In the sermon, John Willingham concludes our Lenten look at moments during his final hours when Jesus was handed over from one group or person to the next. This Sunday, we focus on two moments when Jesus reversed the process with handovers that brought life-changing implications for you and me. Join us as we recall and celebrate both gifts.
We hear of Jesus' crucifixion from Lay Leader Marie Stevens who reads from the Book of John. In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on the aspects of Jesus’ final hours designed only to humiliate him. What do those additional human steps have to say to us about times of public ridicule today? Join us as we ponder together.
Pastor John Willingham reads from John, Chapter 19. In his sermon, he focuses on the moment long ago when Pontius Pilate goes back and forth from the crowd to Jesus seeking to secure the arrestee’s freedom. He ultimately fails, but in the midst of that time of fear and intimidation there is also a glimpse of quiet courage. Join us as we ponder that witness and what it might say to us in our own troubling times.
We begin with a reading from John, Chapter 18, offered by Lay Leader Tom Maclin. In the sermon, John Willingham focuses on the Friday morning when Jesus is handed over from the high priest to Pontius Pilate. It’s a moment filled with drama and deception, courage and cowardice, all resulting in an innocent man being handed over to his death. Join us as we ponder that familiar scene for what is has to say about how we best respond to the truth embodied in Jesus himself.
Lay Leader Steve Quist reads from John 18, then, in the sermon, John Willingham focuses on the Biblical moment Jesus is taken to the high priest and Peter denies even knowing his teacher three times. What does that scene suggest to us as people of faith as we continue to respond to the troubling events in Ukraine? Join us as we ponder together.
Lay Leader Marie Stevens reads from John 18:1-11. Then, in the sermon, join Becca Bateman as we reflect on a question Jesus thinks is worth repeating, so it might be worth asking ourselves.
During Sunday's worship service, Pastor John Willingham reads from Luke 9:28-36. In the sermon, our focus will be on the Transfiguration, that day Jesus and three of his disciples climb a mountain and his appearance is completely transformed. Two ancestors in the faith stand with Jesus and a voice from the cloud is heard. Afterwards, Luke says the three disciples who were witnesses to those events tell no one of what they saw though clearly the news was shared later. Join us as we ponder that response and the events in our own journey of faith that are not easy to explain.
Lay Leader Mary Shull reads from Luke 6:39-49 and then, in her sermon, Becca Bateman helps us reflect on Jesus' call to build or rebuild a spiritual foundation. Whereas this takes time, it is surprising how quickly things come together after that.
Lay Leader Van Starner offers our Scripture lesson reading from Luke 6:20-26. In the sermon, John Willingham focuses on a moment of teaching by Jesus that sounds something like the Beatitudes, but has a very different feel. Instead of naming nine blessings as he does in Matthew’s gospel, Luke tells us of a day when Jesus speaks of four blessings and four woes. Join us as we ponder words that are both encouraging and troubling while naming our ongoing response as people of faith.
In his sermon, John Willingham reflects on the moment Jesus calls Simon Peter to follow him. It occurs on a day that the fisherman is worn out after a long night of unsuccessful fishing and Jesus suggests the man try again. The response changes Simon’s life. Join us as we ponder similar moments of frustration in our own lives and what Jesus might be saying to us.
This week, Pauline Sexton looks at the Widow of Zarephath whose story is found in 1 Kings 17. Jesus mentioned her after he had read the Scripture in the Synagogue in Nazareth. Who is she; and what can her story teach us?
In the sermon, John Willingham focuses on the first moment in the gospel when Jesus’ power becomes evident. It occurred at a wedding after the host ran out of wine. Join us as we ponder how he learned of the shortfall and what that moment might say to us about the times when needs arise still.
In his sermon, John Willingham reflects on the only moment Jesus preached in his hometown synagogue. It started out well, but ended with the crowd attempting to kill him. Drawing upon that Biblical scene, our pastor will then share some good news and hard news as it relates to our recent Be Renewed generosity initiative.
In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on Luke’s account of Jesus’ baptism. What does that scene have to say to us as we respond to the call of every baptism at DPC “to remember with joy our own baptism as we celebrate this sacrament?” Join us as we ponder such remembrance together.
We have just completed a season of gift-giving. In his sermon, John Willingham reflects on the first presents offered at the first Christmas; gifts that held meaning for the family, the givers and us. Join us as we ponder the nature of such gifts anew.
Today we offer a special two-part DPC Podcast. First, you'll hear Pastor John Willingham's Christmas Eve sermon entitled "The Best Christmas Tradition," followed by the sermon from our December 26 worship service featuring a sermon delivered by Associate Pastor Becca Bateman and two guest preachers - DPC members John Mulder and Eileen Telly. Happy New Year from Doylestown Presbyterian Church!
In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on two themes of the Season of Advent--waiting for the birth of Jesus and waiting for the return of Christ. What does it mean for us to live as people of faith who have already experienced the joy of the incarnation while also knowing that creation is not yet all that God intends? Join us as we ponder together.
In the sermon, John Willingham reflects on how we best respond when hard times keep coming. In particular, as a new variant of the COVID virus has surfaced, how are we to respond as people of faith? Join us in pondering that question together on the Second Sunday of Advent, as we continue to prepare for and wait for the Light of the World.
In his sermon, John Willingham focuses on Biblical texts that pray for and lament the absence of peace in ancient Jerusalem. All around us is evidence of other places where peace is missing. Where do we begin to make the kind of change God intends? Join us as we ponder our individual and collective response.
We end the church year with Christ The King Sunday. Pastor Pauline Sexton invites us to look at Jesus as King through the prophetic words of Daniel and John in the book of Revelation as we ask the question “Who is this King of glory?"
In his sermon, John Willingham concludes our Be Renewed series by focusing on what God has and has not promised to us. Join us as we ponder that vital distinction before making our financial commitment for the next two years. You can visit www.dtownpc.org/BeRenewed to access a digital commitment card as we strive to Be Renewed as a body of faith.
We welcome the Reverend Ruth Faith Santana-Grace, Executive Presbyter of the Presbytery of Philadelphia, to our pulpit. In her sermon, she explores how we can look to Christ to renew our strength so that we can continue to run or walk through the journey God has placed before us.
As we continue our reflections on how scripture guides us to Be Renewed, this week we look at David’s heartfelt plea for forgiveness after his sin had led into infidelity and murder in Psalm 51. He longs to be renewed in his relationship with God, but he also asks for a steadfast spirit to be with him. Join Pastor Pauline as David’s prayer models for us renewal that is based on a steadfast spirit.
Two years ago, Pastor Roberta preached her first sermon among us focusing on loving God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Today, on Roberta's last Sunday among us, our Be Renewed campaign once again focuses our attention on what is essential in our life of faith. Roberta invites us to be renewed in our thinking as we hunger for and seek God in our daily lives.
In Becca Bateman's sermon this Sunday we explore ways we can encourage one another and discover those small, sometimes unnoticed glimpses of hope and renewal - evidence of God’s presence.
John’s Gospel concludes in chapter 21 with Jesus seeking out his disciples and offering them breakfast on the beach. Join us as Pauline Sexton invites us to listen in on their conversation and catch another glimpse of the grace of the Risen Lord.
This week, Becca Bateman focuses on World Communion Sunday, celebrating God's presence with us in the body of Christ - with more than just those around our little table. Though our interconnectedness can also bring divisiveness, we are called to love. How will we face this challenge together?
In the sermon, John Willingham concludes a two-part look at the Matthew 25 journey by focusing on our commitment to work toward dismantling structural racism. Where do we begin to address such a massive, and for some, controversial effort? Join us as we ponder that question and a suggestion for how each of us can be part of the change.
This sermon was recorded as we gathered outdoors on Mechanics St. on Sunday during a special worship service. Please excuse the noise from the wind! In his sermon, John Willingham begins a two-part series on our Matthew 25 initiative focusing this week on how issues of racial justice might intersect with poverty. In particular, we will ponder the moment Jesus said to his disciples “Blessed are you who are poor.” What might the M25 journey teach us about his meaning and our response? Join us as we reflect together.
Recent days have brought back memories of the horrific events of 9/11. The twentieth anniversary of that day has appropriately resulted in articles and observances, lesson plans and conversations, documentaries and remembrances. In his sermon, John Willingham draws upon that shared experience by focusing our attention on an opportunity present on 9/12. Join us as ponder together that gift as people of faith.
In Sunday’s sermon, Pauline Sexton finishes up the sermons focusing on the Book of Daniel. Daniel, a man of faith, faced many trials and challenges but his commitment to worship his God encourages us all. Pauline speaks of the book by Eugene H. Peterson "A Long Obedience in the Same Direction" (InterVarsity Press) after which she has titled her sermon.
In this Sunday's sermon, Becca Bateman examines the faith of Daniel and the surprising impact it had on others. After a closer look at the characters in the passage and also in our lives, we realize the impact of a life of faith. Following worship, our members joyfully approved Becca's Terms of Call as our new Associate Pastor for Education and Family Ministries!
In the sermon, John Willingham begins the final phase of our summer-long look at the book of Daniel by reflecting on a new crisis for the title character. Ironically, it was a personal strength of that Jewish man which put him at risk. Join us as we ponder that reality for him and ourselves in the fullness of life.
In our scripture, both characters in Daniel and in the gospel of Luke fail to learn the lessons of those before them. Roberta Kearney invites us to consider what it means to live more simply and with generosity, as God teaches us, so our possessions do not define and confine us.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our reflection on the Book of Daniel, by focusing on a Biblical moment that is the origin for our expression of “the handwriting is on the wall.” Join us as we ponder what that ancient scene has to say to us about human courage in those times when words of truth can be hard to speak.
As we continue our summer series in the book of Daniel, we find King Nebuchadnezzar failing to accept the message of the dream that he must change his ways. God invites us to change our ways over and over, but sometimes an event causes us to truly stop and assess what we are doing. In her sermon, Roberta Kearney asks us to consider our own readiness to change the focus of our lives.
In the sermon, John Willingham reflects on another day when Daniel is brought in to interpret the king’s dream. Its message is about hard times ahead for Nebuchadnezzar while offering a word about what it means for him and us to recognize God as sovereign over all of life. Join us as we listen in and ponder how you and I might best demonstrate faithfulness toward our heavenly ruler.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our summer look at the Book of Daniel by focusing on the moment three people of faith faced a literal trial by fire. The response of the king to those events and the angry suggestion centuries later by two disciples of Jesus invite us to look at our own lives of faith with candor and humility. Join us as we ponder those ancient scenes together, seeking a word of hope for today.
During Sunday's sermon, a longtime and beloved member of the church fainted. We have edited the response to this medical emergency out of this podcast. Thankfully, the member is now recovering well. We continue to hold her in our prayers. In his sermon, John Willingham continues our summer focus on the Book of Daniel by reflecting on the moment three exiles refuse to bow down to an idol. What does their moment of courage and a similar act by two of the first disciples centuries later suggest about how we best live out our faith amidst the challenges of today? Join us as we ponder that question together.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our summer focus on the book of Daniel by reflecting on the moment that title character reveals the content and meaning of a king’s dream. What does that ancient scene have to say to us as our nation marks its 245th birthday? Join us as we ponder that question together.
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our summer focus on events in the story of Daniel, reflecting on a day when King Nebuchadnezzar demanded insight into a troubling dream. Join us as we draw lessons from that moment and from a time in Jesus’ final hours when the response to a dream proved to be life-altering, too. Don't forget to check out www.dtownpc.org for all the latest news and happenings here at DPC!
In his sermon, John Willingham continues our summer focus on events in the story of Daniel, reflecting on a day when King Nebuchadnezzar demanded insight into a troubling dream. Join us as we draw lessons from that moment and from a time in Jesus’ final hours when the response to a dream proved to be life-altering, too.
In his sermon on Sunday, John Willingham begins our summer series that will focus on the Old Testament character of Daniel. We start by pondering a day when, as an act of faith, Daniel refused to eat food sent to him by the king of Babylon. Join us as we reflect upon that decision and what it might say about how we faithfully live in a world that often has different priorities as well.
In Sunday’s sermon, Roberta Kearney looks at the covenants and promises God makes to us in baptism and the promises we make throughout our journey of faith. We respond to those promises in confirmation and affirmation of our faith as do those serving as officers in the church through the ministry of Deacon and Elder. Join us as we reflect on what it means to trust in our covenant-making God.
In his sermon, John Willingham concludes the series on Noah and the flood by focusing on the image of a rainbow. What does that sign promised by God in the narrative say to us as people of faith? Join us as we ponder that gift anew. Visit www.dtownpc.org to learn more about the various ministries and programs offered at DPC.