Preacher: David T. Taylor, Pastor Emeritus
Director of Music Ministries: Dr. Angela Salcedo
Music: 8:00 + 10:00 am Chris Stone, Baritone; 10:00 am Chancel Choir, Mallet Ringers
Dear Friends,
As people of faith, we are called to be hopeful, joyful and compassionate, but sometimes our personal burdens and those of the world weigh us down. Pastor, theologian and writer Maren Tirabassi’s words in a poem called “Expanding the Love” speak to me.
“Keep the story,” I imagine Jesus said,
“this theology of wide mercy, love, grace,
across the boundaries people love to build,
and it will be a gift
that they are loved with a love
that will never be replaced.”
One of our prescribed Scripture readings for this Sunday is from the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 4. It is a passage that captures the beginning of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. In it, Jesus says these words from the prophet Isaiah.
18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
and recovery of sight to the blind,
to set free those who are oppressed,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
The Gospel message is clear. We are called to be people of grace, inclusion, love and hope always welcoming, honoring and loving each child of God. We are called to create a safe community where people know they are valued.
We invite you to worship with us this Sunday at 8:00 a.m. in the Micah Chapel, 10:00 a.m. in the Meetinghouse or online. Our Pastor Emeritus David Taylor is preaching, and our Mallet Ringers and Chancel Choir will share their gifts of music with us at the later service, while Chris Stone will bless us with his voice at the 8:00 a.m. service.
The bulletin, large print bulletin and announcement slides are available on our website. You can watch any of our livestreamed or recorded services on our YouTube channel.
During one of my meetings with a church member this week, he mentioned how he loves the words of welcome we say at each worship service. The words vary slightly, but the message does not. No matter who you are, where you grew up, the color of your skin, the language you speak, who you love, how much money you have, the challenges you face, the doubts you have, you are welcome in our beloved church community. ❤
Love, Kate
Our First Church family of faith enjoys worshipping together, and we hope you will join us! On most Sundays our worship services are at 8:00 am in the Micah Chapel and 10:00 am in the Meetinghouse and livestreamed (and are also available for viewing later).