The Northminster Window

Worship Preview: July 25th

2010-07-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

Sermon Title:

"Does Prayer Work?"

by Dr. Gaddy

Scriptures:

Luke 11: 1-4, 9-13

He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.’ He said to them, ‘When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial.’

‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’

TRACKS: A Vacation Meditation

2010-07-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

July, 19, 2010
Orange Beach, FL

For well over two decades, a trip to a beach was considered a part of what was designated as a "vacation" for me--whether for relaxation, sermon planning, to complete a writing project, or a mixture of these and other purposes. During the last 15 years, the beach visited has been a point somewhere along the Gulf Shore. Walking on the beach is like breathing fresh air.

An early morning walk on the beach can be therapy for many ailments as well as inspiration for a day or a year. My favorite way to write and plan is to work a while inside at a desk and to walk a while outside on a beach, repeating the process several times each day. The chemistry is magical. Even when down or depressed, while enjoying a walk on the beach ideas come more easily, words flow more lucidly, and plans take on greater clarity.

Sights on the beach stay in my mind and feed my soul for a long time--

the first golden-orange rays of a great bright sphere just edging over a horizon, then hiding behind a distant hotel before lifting higher to a spot squeezed between cloud banks that pickup its rays and fling them across the ocean like fireworks shooting across a night time sky, and finally softly and silently rising toward the peak from which it gives us a whole sky filled with warm, life-giving light;
a walk along that line where sand and water meet at the fullest stretch of an incoming wave, watching the suddenly soaked sand dry quickly as the wave recedes carrying with it a variety of shells that did not find their habitat in the sand, enjoying the thrill of the sight of two sting rays rushing toward the beach as if they would lift right out of the water before turning sharply in the water to head to greater depths before making another run at the shore, delighting in the haunting sounds of sea gulls soaring overhead while looking aghast at other birds dive-bombing into the water in search of a fish for a meal, awe-struck staring at three dolphins gracefully making their way through the water, appreciatively observing a crane or pelican strutting down the beach before awkwardly lifting into the air, smiling as a large school of tiny fish sweep into the front of a wave and then scurry away from the shore for safety.

I remember the dark blue water of Orange Beach which sometimes blends with turquoise streams defining beauty. I recall strong but placid water stilling surging emotions. I never will forget the fear induced by churning, wild water in the Gulf on the morning before Katrina came roaring ashore.

But this year is different, different from all of that. Sea gulls are scarce. The lush sand and soothing sounds of waves lapping at the shore have been replaced by deep ruts of sand bearing the imprints of large machines, trucks, and jeeps the sounds of which are louder than the waves. The panorama of water reaching as far as one can see has been replaced by water splashing against oil tanks, ships skimming oil, and barges carrying equipment. Sun bathers are few in number, but workers in orange work-suits are plentiful--not working, but serving as public relation agents for the BP oil company.

Yesterday I got excited because I saw a crane. Today excitement came from seeing three fish near the shore--three. Watching for oil-created tar balls along the beach has replaced looking for the perfect shaped shell.

What has happened? What have we done? What all have we killed?

Oh, I know it was a mistake. Drilling for oil in the Gulf makes us less dependent on Middle East oil and creates jobs for workers that feed families and pay taxes. It is a complex situation. But, I keep thinking about creation. Who speaks for God's creation? Who is an advocate for the dolphins?

Jewish Scriptures tell us that the earth and all that is within it belong to God, though God entrusted the care of it all to us. No wonder the Christian Scriptures tell us that not to protect the waters, fish, sting rays, pelicans, and cranes as well as the wetlands and beaches is a sin. I understand as never before the Apostle Paul’s comment about a creation that groans for redemption.

Suddenly my gratitude for the life and beauty of this Gulf turned into repentance for the ugliness and death we have inflicted on it.

Welton

Worship Preview: Sunday, June 20th (Fourth Sunday of Pentecost)

2010-06-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

The Psalms

Psalm 37: 3-9 and Psalm 145: 15 - 16

The Lesson

Romans 8: 18 - 25

Sermon: A Lesson of the Desert
(Dr. Deborah Chandler will be preaching)

Worship Preview: Sunday, June 13 (3rd Sunday after Pentecost)

2010-06-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

Scripture Lesson

Ephesians 3:7-13

Sermon Title

"Making Known the Wisdom of God"

Art: "The Pentecost" by Alexander Sadoyan -- born in 1954 in Yerevan, Armenia

Worship Preview: Sunday, June 6 (2nd Sunday after Pentecost)

2010-06-02T12:10:00.000-07:00

Scripture Lessons

I Kings 17:8-13

Galatians 1:11-16b

Luke 7:11-17

Sermon Title

I Don't Know What to Say

Sermon Preview: "I will be exploring the nature of the Gospel as revealed through experiences with which I do not identify or understand."

Responding to the Oil Spill: A Spiritual Practice

2010-05-30T10:36:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's latest Patheos post, "Responding to the Oil Spill: A Spiritual Practice."

LPB: Church & Bayou State

2010-05-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

The LPB special featuring Dr. Gaddy ("Church & Bayou State: Religion in Louisiana") will be rebroadcast today, Sunday, May 30 at 3 p.m.

Also, you can click here to view the full program online at your convenience.

Worship Preview: Sunday, May 30 (Ascension Sunday)

2010-05-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

The Scripture Lessons
Genesis 11: 1, 4, 7-8
Acts 2:1-2, 4
John 14:17, 25-27

The Sermon Title

The Gift of God's Spirit, Human Community, and Social Chaos: We Cannot Miss This!

Notes on Photograph: Pentecost art work from First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley, CA; Raymond Yee (photographer)

Patheos: 100 words on the Holy Spirit

2010-05-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's response to the question "How is the Holy Spirit at work in the world today?"...in 100 words or less.

Worship Preview: Sunday, May 16 (Ascension Sunday)

2010-05-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

Scripture Lessons

John 16:5-7

Acts 1:1-10

Sermon Title

"Blessed Absence"

Art: "Ascension" -- a mural of Christ ascending to heaven found on a graffiti wall in Bristol, England in 2003; painter unidentified: Skip the Budgie, photographer.

Mother God

2010-05-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's latest Patheos blog for Mother's Day on referring to the Trinity as "Mother, Child, and Womb" as a supplement to the traditional masculine formula of "Father, Son, and Spirit."

Worship Preview: May 9, 2010 (6th Sunday in Eastertide)

2010-05-05T15:17:00.000-07:00

The Gospel Lesson

John 5:1-9

The Sermon Title

"Want and Will"

TRACKS: Amtrak’s ACELA Express between D.C. and New York City (literally on “tracks”)

2010-05-04T12:05:00.002-07:00

It felt like a punch to the stomach, though the hurt was in my heart and the damage was to my spirit.

The awesome sweep of the 44 marble steps ascending to the entrance to the majestic United States Supreme Court building take visitors to the entrance to the Grand Hall from which there is access to the legendary court room. Over the entry to the marvelous bronze doors at the entrance to the building appear the words “Equal Justice Under Law”—a statement that conveys the promise of our democracy and system of law. That entrance has been an idyllic metaphor for the American way of life as much as a functional way to get inside the building. For 75 years, scores of people from all walks of life have stepped through that entrance inspirited by the promise of finding equality and justice inside.

No more! As of today “court watchers,” visitors, and “seekers of justice” will be ushered to another entrance to the High Court—over to the side of the historic doorway, off center from the historic and hallowed promise of justice for all.

Why the change? You guessed it—security, better crowd control. The metaphors of democracy have been hit hard since terrorists bombed the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and caused the downing of an airliner in Pennsylvania. First Pennsylvania Avenue was closed to traffic in front of the White House. Later access to the United States Capitol building was restricted. Entrance to the center of our government can now be found in an underground visitors’ center. But it never occurred to me that a day would come when the entrance to the Supreme Court would be moved to a side door.

I understand the need for security. I have felt fear in this center of power in the “free world.” I have felt the same kind of fear in Monroe as recently as last weekend while listening to a conversation in which 3 of the people present shifted their conversation about guns to their aspirations to get rid of President Obama by any means necessary. I am aware of the smoking bomb that—Thank God!—did not explode in Times Square. I am not unaware that the presence of terrorists among us demands thoughtful preparation and defense measures. However, when security interests become so powerful as to compromise liberty and alter the values of democracy, hate has triumphed over civility at home, and terrorists have won the day from abroad.

I don’t want to be unreasonable, but I also do not want to lose democracy. Hate mongers have altered the way of life for peace lovers. A loss of the basic symbols of our nation prepares the way for still greater losses.

Today, I am sad. My tears are not for myself, but for my country!

PRAYER

Holy, liberating God, you have instructed us to stand fast in freedom. Forgive us for elevating security over liberty. Show us how we can protect ourselves best by aggressively demonstrating commitment to our highest values—values like liberty—and responsibly participating in our government to advance democracy. Amen.

Worship Preview: April 28th (5th Sunday in Eastertide)

2010-04-28T19:23:00.000-07:00

Scripture Lesson

John 13:34-35

Sermon Title

A New Universe

Our Big, Bad Interfaith Wedding: A Happy Ending

2010-04-28T10:32:00.000-07:00

Click here to read the essay Rev. Gregg and Magin LaSov Gregg wrote for Patheos about their interfaith wedding -- and why Carl, a Christian minister, want to raise their hypothetical children as Jews. Read on, my friends, read on.

Freedom of Religion = Freedom of Speech

2010-04-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's

Worship Preview for April 25 (4th Sunday in Eastertide)

2010-04-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

Scripture Lesson:

Mark 16:1-7

Sermon Title:

"An Ineffable Mystery"

TRACKS: Washington, D.C.

2010-04-20T07:08:00.000-07:00

Dorothy Height died early this morning at age 98. The nation lost a great citizen and all freedom loving people lost a friend. When the civil rights movement in this nation began in the 1960’s, Dr. Height already had 30 years of experience working for fairness and equality among all people. As a child—a teenager—she marched against lynching in an environment in which she could have been lynched. Her passion for equal rights continued through 33 years of service on the national board of the YWCA and 40 years on the board of the National Council of Negro Women, the headquarters of which almost overlays the spot where slaves were once traded in the shadow of the United States Capitol.

As Congressman John Lewis has pointed out, Dr. Height spent much of her life dealing with intense male chauvinism in both the black and white communities. But she never was stopped by such discrimination. Indeed, she became an icon of liberation for both black and white women.

Though seldom mentioned in the headlines that described the civil rights movement in this nation, Dr. Height was involved in almost every step forward within that movement. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. knew, respected, and counted on this woman. When he delivered his infamous “I Have a Dream” speech from the Lincoln Memorial, Dorothy Height was the only woman on the platform beside the gospel singer Mahalia Jackson.

One of the advantages of my work in D.C. is the opportunity it provides to be close to history and the people who have made and are making history. On several occasions I have been at events where Dr. Height was present. Most recently, I saw her just outside the East Room of the White House prior to the president’s signing of hate crimes legislation. True to her reputation for beautiful clothes and a striking hat, she sat in her wheelchair smiling.

Every time I saw Dorothy Height, I made my way to her side simply to say “thank you” to her. That last time I saw her was no exception. As I stood beside her that day, someone snapped a picture. But, I don’t know who did it. I would love to have that picture standing by this giant shero who worked to see that all people are free and toward the end of her life acknowledged that the work of civil rights is not over. However, I have the memory that cannot get lost.

This morning NPR’s Morning Edition ended its coverage of Dorothy Height’s death with words directed to young people but loaded with wisdom for all of us. She stressed the importance of young people getting organized to serve others observing that when people work for something bigger than themselves, there is no way they can help but grow.

“Lift every voice and sing . . . .”

Prayer

O God, thank you for the gift of Dorothy Height and others who have strengthened our freedom when we did not know to do as much for ourselves. Have been blessed by her life and work, let us now carry on the responsibility which was her life and is her legacy. Amen.

What's Sex Got To Do With It (Christianity, that is)?

2010-04-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

"What's Sex Got To Do With It (Christianity, that is)?

... in 100 words or less."

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's response

to the latest Patheos Theoblogger Challenge

Worship Preview: April 18th (3rd Sunday in Eastertide)

2010-04-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

Scriptures:

Acts 9:1-6

John 21:4-14

Sermon Title: "Sightings"

Art: Caravaggio, "The Conversion of Saint Paul" (1600-1601)

Rev. Gregg's Letter to the Editor

2010-04-14T05:47:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's letter to editor titled, "Prayer's Intention Not Public Acclaim" from today's local paper.

TRACKS: On a plane between Rochester and New York City

2010-04-13T15:50:00.000-07:00

This morning I experienced an unexpected pleasure. When I boarded the shuttle bus to go to the airport, I found myself seated beside my good friend Dr. Sayyid M. Syeed, former head of the Islamic Society of North America. When I asked Sayyid about Dr. Ingrid Matson, a mutual friend, who is currently completing her term as president of ISNA, he told me that an election is underway to choose Ingrid’s successor. Then reminiscing began. Sayyid recalled the protest raised by Muslim clerics in the US when ISNA began electing its officers. “This is not Islam!” they protested, “This is not the way we do things.”

Sayyid described the ponderous conversations that had to go on, careful studies in the Q’ran, and meticulous efforts to distinguish between Islam as a religion and Islam as a culture. Democracy was not a part of Islamic culture, but it was not inconsistent with Islamic religion. The dialogue and the studies that accompanied them ultimately resulted in broad-based Muslim support for democratic elections to determine the officers of ISNA. But that was not the end of the matter. Next questions arose about the voters, specifically whether or not women should be allowed to vote. Again a process of study and conversation was launched. And, again democracy prevailed. Women could vote. But, then, a question arose about whether or not Muslim women could be elected as leaders of the organization. Once more—the same process unfolded and eventually concluded with the same result—democracy in action.

Sayyid was smiling broadly as he observed, “Just imagine; what it has taken some people generations to do, I have seen done in my lifetime!” Of course, this man was a major factor in facilitating such dramatic progress. I suggested to my friend that the insight embraced by his people also has an application in a different direction. Christianity is no more synonymous with democracy than Islam is with a specific form of government. Democracy is not a contradiction to Islam any more than a government other than democracy is a contradiction to Christianity. Indeed, most of my Christian predecessors have experienced a form of government other than democracy.

Sayyid and I exchanged compliments about the work each of us does, embraced, and said we would see each other soon. What great insight from a trusted friend on a morning in which, because of a series of late hours, it was difficult to get up and get started.

Prayer

O God, keep us alert to the application of your word in this world. Stop us from any movement to identify our faith with any one nation, one particular form of government, or one race of people. Thank you for all who study Holy Scriptures in a manner that provides insight for all of us that prohibits us from using religion as an excuse to not like people who are different from us or to conclude that ours is the only kind of government acceptable to you. Amen.

TRACKS: Rochester, New York

2010-04-12T20:29:00.000-07:00

“Why do you not attend church?” That was the question recently posed to scores of Americans by The Barna Group, a conservative Christian research firm that tracks the place of faith in public life. “Because I have been hurt by the church or church people,” was the answer given by almost 4 out of 10 individuals who have no relationship with a church.

Here are surprising findings. 61% of the people who do not participate in a church consider themselves Christians. 53% of so-called “unchurched” people once had a relationship with a Christian congregation but moved away from the church. 37% of people out of the church say they left because of a painful experience within a church.

I find these figures sad and incriminating. That is just not what “good news” does to people. So, what are churches preaching and teaching? And how are churches behaving—in ways that inflict hurt rather than off consolation and healing? At what points of hurt in people’s lives are churches not connecting with compassion and help?

The Barna Group’s documentation of the demographics behind these numbers explodes typical assumptions. More women than men stay away from church. (Could that be the result of the way many churches treat women as second-class believers and members?) More boomers and their older friends stay out of church than do young people. (Is the church not dealing with the life-situational issues that accompany “growing up,” “finding a job,” “having a family,” “facing crises of transition” and “dealing with failure?”) More conservatives than liberals stay away from the church as do more white people than people of color. (“Is the church not nurturing the foundations of Christianity as well as pursuing its mandates for mission and change?”)

I don’t believe it is ever possible to emphasize enough the good of the good news. As Jesus himself said, his ministry and message are for those in need. How could a church be a church and devote its resources to any one else or allow its message and ministry to leave on people who participate in it hurt instead of help and healing?

Prayer

O God, forgive us if we ever turn the gospel into bad news rather than present the gospel as good news and/or shape the church as just another institution in which people get hurt rather than as a unique community devoted to loving and healing—with no exceptions. Amen

Worship Preview for April 11 (2nd Sunday in Eastertide)

2010-04-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

The Scripture Lessons

Psalm 118:14-16, 28-29

John 20:19-20, 24-28

The Sermon Title

A Personal Easter

The Art: Caravaggio, "Saint Thomas Putting his Finger on Christ's Wound" (1602-1603). Note: Click on the painting to view a larger version.

An Unscheduled Easter

2010-04-06T18:42:00.001-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's most recent post for Patheos on "An Unscheduled Easter."

Easter Letter from our Sister Congregation in Cuba

2010-04-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

Note: The following is an Easter letter to Northminster Church from The Rev. Noel Fernandez, the Pastor Emeritus at Iglesia Bautista Enmanuel, our sister church in Ciego de Avila, Cuba. Immediately following Noel's letter is Dr. Gaddy's grateful letter in response.

Dear Northminster Church Family,

This week was a very blessed time among us. Easter, as usual, was celebrated beside the river on the roadway to Bolivia. Sisters and brothers from ten different congregations affiliated with the Fraternity of Baptist Churches of Cuba attended the celebration. Five persons from our church were baptized, also five from Colorado and three from Bolivia.

Ormara and I planned the service, which included participation from representatives of all the churches represented. As usual Eduardo preached a great sermon.

A delicious lunch was prepared by a group of men from Bolivia. The main dish was a Cuban “ajiaco,” but most of the participants had their own snack that was shared with others.

The many children present were more quiet than usual, but after the baptisms, all of them jumped into the water and…you may imagine the rest.

I was thinking of you and asking God to bless you, our family there, and the whole Northminster Church.

Easter is the most blessed season in the whole year.

Blessed Easter for all of you!

Noel

Dear Noel:

Your Easter letter was a wonderful gift. When I finished reading it, I felt like I had been by the river with all of you. I could hear the singing, see the pride on your face while Eduardo was preaching, experience the joy of the baptism followed by all the kids jumping into the water. I could smell the food and feel the warmness of the fellowship around the table. You described the whole experience in a manner that inspired me and caused gratitude to well up in my heart.

We had a good day at Northminster as well on Easter Sunday. We saw people in worship whom we had not seen before and some we had not seen in a long time. Our choir sang two pieces from Handel's Messiah and they sang with beauty and enthusiasm. A good spirit prevailed and worship was meaningful.

Your letter brought to mind the bond between two congregations and between numerous individuals that is made strong by our common faith and the joy of our celebrations of its highest moments and most meaningful events. Your writing enabled me to see you and sense the joy of putting my arms around you and Ormara and speaking of the pleasure that is uniquely ours to have enjoyed a partnership and a sense of family that have enriched life.

The holy presence with you was with us as well. We said our prayers together. We worshiped as a family. God's presence is unmistakable in our friendship. On Easter all that you had that we were missing was the great food and splashing water. But, the day is coming when we will share that again as well.

Joy and peace to you, dear friend. You are a constant source of inspiration and encouragement.

Welton

TRACKS: Monroe, Louisiana

2010-04-03T09:56:00.001-07:00

“It sounded like you believe in resurrection.” The comment was as much a question as it was an observation. The words were noticeably laced with a twinge of surprise. After a week of Holy Week services, the host pastor was driving the guest speaker for the week to the airport.

Carlyle Marney was the guest minister about to depart for home. Personally, “Marney”—that’s what most people who knew him well called him—was one of my heroes and mentors. I suspect he may have been the most brilliant thinker ever produced by Baptists. Certainly he was one of the most honest and influential. Some people called him a “liberal,” but as is usually the case, no label fit perfectly; it depended on the subject being discussed.

Obviously, Marney’s host for the week had the “liberal” label in mind when he offered his observation that hung in the air like a question—“Tonight,” he said to Marney, “It sounded like you believe in the resurrection.”

After a pause, Marney, now somewhat elderly, responded, “The closer I get to death, the more I believe in the resurrection.”

From the moment I heard that story from my friend who was Marney’s host for that week years ago, I understood the revered man’s comment. For me, it is a pertinent comment for Holy Saturday.

Some people believe in resurrection because they are supposed to, some because the Bible describes it, others because they think they have figured out a rational explanation for and defense of resurrection (which misses the whole point of the truth about resurrection), and still others because of a need to believe in resurrection.

I look forward to Easter Sunday as a day when we wrap all of our doubts and beliefs in a series of alleluias as we claim the promise that nothing can separate us from the love of God. But, for me, the waiting is as spiritually important as the celebrating. In such silence, anxiety, eagerness, disturbance, and expectation belief forms . . . or reforms.

Prayer

O God, for the journey through Lent and the challenges of Holy Week we give thanks even as with gratitude we look forward to tomorrow and a joyous celebration of a mystery that is essential to reality. Amen.

A Holy Saturday Spiritual Practice

2010-04-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's post titled "A Spiritual Practice for Holy Saturday" for the Lenten blog series This Is My Fast.

Worship Preview: April 4th (Easter Sunday)

2010-04-01T08:19:00.000-07:00

The Gospel Lesson

Luke 24:1-5

The Epistle Lesson

1 Corinthians 15:19-22

The Sermon Title

The Gospel of Life

Clean-up Day Pictures

2010-03-31T19:35:00.000-07:00

Click here to see a slideshow of pictures from the Churchwide Clean-up Day on Saturday, March 27.

Why I Need the Resurrection

2010-03-31T10:16:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's response to the Patheos Theoblogger Challenge: "Why I Need the Resurrection ... in 100 Words or Less."

This article will be the featured article on the Patheos Mainline Protestant Portal through the weekend.

Recent Pictures from Northminster's Homepage

2010-03-30T17:32:00.000-07:00

Click on the picture to see a larger version.

The Top Ten Books that Influenced Me Theologically

2010-03-29T15:51:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Rev. Gregg's most recent post for Patheos on "The Top Ten Books that Influenced Me Theologically." Consider sharing your own list.

Last Minute Lent

2010-03-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

Rev. Gregg has been invited to be a regular blogger at Patheos.

Click here to read his first post on celebrating a "Last Minute Lent."

To learn more about the Patheos website, click here.

TRACKS: Tulsa, Oklahoma

2010-03-26T11:13:00.001-07:00

Foolishness—what’s a good definition? Since this is one of those mornings with a 4:00 AM wake-up call after an evening that finally ended about 11:30 PM, I am tempted to define foolishness as living a life in which every week usually contains two or three days of 4:00 AM wake-up calls. But the pay-off of those early risings is getting to go home early, like today, or spending fewer nights while visiting several different cities. So, I turn to another definition of foolishness—one that either causes me to shake my head in disbelief or chuckle, if not laugh.

Sometime back a friend sent me a news story from a small town in Texas, Mr. Vernon, where Drummond’s Bar had begun construction on a new building aimed at increasing its business. A local Baptist Church started a campaign of petitions and prayers aimed at blocking the new bar from opening. A week before Drummond’s new building was to open, lightning struck the structure and it burned to the ground.

The church people in town felt a little cocky and a whole lot smug about what had happened until the owner of the bar sued the church, claiming the church was ultimately responsible for the fire destroying the building either through direct or indirect actions or other means. Quickly the church denied all responsibility, arguing that there was no connection between the bar’s destruction and the church’s action.

In court, after the judge looked over the paperwork on the case, the bewildered officer of the court commented, “I don’t know how I’m going to decide this, but it appears . . . we have a bar owner who believes in the power of prayer and an entire church congregation that does not!”

Prayer

O God, help us to distinguish between what the apostle Paul meant when he identified us as “fools for Christ” and what we are doing when we behave in a manner that is simply foolish. The former is a consequence of spiritual fidelity and the other is only an indication of personal or congregational stupidity. Grant us the wisdom to know the difference between those two lest we embarrass you as well as ourselves. Amen

Worship Preview: March 28th (Palm Sunday and Covenant Sunday)

2010-03-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

The Palm Sunday

Gospel Lesson

Luke 19:28, 36-40

The Covenant Sunday

Gospel Lesson

Matthew 16:13-19

The Sermon Title:

"Complaining and Creating"

The Reaffirmation of the Northminster Church Covenant

TRACKS: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

2010-03-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

Terrorism was not a word that frequented my vocabulary in the spring of 1995. But on April 19th of that year, in the city in which I am speaking tonight, terrorism thundered its way into our attention and forced itself into our public vocabulary.

I remember the day well. Stunned by the loss of life and property when the Federal Building in Oklahoma City exploded, I received a call from one of our church members—Wayne Bushnell—requesting that I come to his office and, via a video-hookup, offer a prayer for grieving employees of his business in Oklahoma City and Monroe. Friends and relatives were dead or missing.

First reports of the tragedy placed blame on a person of Middle Eastern descent. “A Muslim!” people quickly concluded. As it turned out though, the perpetrator of the terror was an American Christian convinced that he was doing the will of God by attacking our government.

I have been to the memorial site of that tragedy several times during the intervening years. Each time I shudder to think of the causes behind this horrible act—causes that transcend race, religion, skin color, and politics. Terror is a tangible result of irrational anger and religion blasphemed and prostituted to serve deadly purposes.

This current trip involves 5 interviews (television, newspapers, and radio stations) as well as public presentations. Over and over I am listening to people talk about the outbreak of a new plague of irrational anger. Ironically, my speech tonight on distinguishing between civil law and religious morality in handling controversial issues with civility—respect, civil dialogue, and cooperation—must be protected by security forces. A leading Oklahoma State Senator like others on the panel that will respond to my remarks this evening fear for their safety.

If the word “terror” causes you to think immediately of residents of the Middle East or devotees of Islam, please be done with the stereotypes driving that image. Yes, there are terrorists from that part of the world and in that religion. But, terrorism stalks the streets of our cities as well in every part of this country. Radical Christians also play god.

We have a government that is paying close attention to threats from outside us. We best pay better attention to threats among us. As a case in point, witness members on both sides of the aisle on the floor of the United States House of Representatives this past Sunday evening. The anger that is boiling among citizens and that some opportunistic, irresponsible leaders are fueling is an anger that has the potential to erode our democracy and to destroy innocent people. God forbid!

Prayer

O God, calm us down. Douse the flames of our prejudices with spiritual water. Enable us to take a deep breath and think clearly. Fill us with vision of a way toward quieter conversations, honest searches for common ground, and a nation in which liberty and justice prevail for all people in our streets as well as in our songs. Amen.

Worship Preview: March 21st (The 5th Sunday in Lent)

2010-03-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

The Scripture Readings

Isaiah 43:16, 18-19

John 12:1-8

The Sermon Title: "Casting Stones and Saving Lives/Ranking Sins and Realizing Grace"

The Sermon Preview: In addition to the texts listed above, the sermon will also draw from the other lectionary texts appointed for this Sunday as well as from the narrative in John 8 of the woman whom Jesus saved from stoning.

The Artwork: Rembrandt, "Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery" (1644). The painting shows the moment at which the religious leaders, attempting to outwit Jesus, ask him whether, in accordance with the Torah, she should be stoned to death. Jesus replies "He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone." The work is an example of Rembrandt's gifts as a colourist. Within the dark interior of the temple, golds, reds, greens and browns glow as they are struck by a strong fall of light. Click on the painting to see a larger version of Rembrandt's work.

ON FAITH: Pastors must relate to their congregations honestly

2010-03-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

Click here to read Dr. Gaddy's latest post on The Washington Post's "On Faith" blog.

TRACKS: New York City

2010-03-16T08:43:00.001-07:00

Daily devotionals never have been easy for me. Maybe it is different for you. I hope so. Whether my explanation of why consists of excuses or reasons really does not matter. I tend to favor spiritual practices for people on the run. Perhaps that is a problem in itself, but, if so, it’s a reality and a fact that I either must change or accommodate. Right now, my response to this situation is accommodation without spiritual compromise.

Sometime back I discovered a new resource for daily devotionals that has proven extremely helpful to me. At d365.org on the worldwide web you will find a daily online devotional series that may be helpful to you as well. This site offers music that settles the spirit and focuses the mind. Right now, the music is provided by the great pianist and my personal friend Ken Medema. With a click of the mouse, you can move through a short daily thought, a brief excerpt from scripture, a prayer, and a word of encouragement. You can spend as much or as little time as you choose and benefit from whatever amount of time you choose.

The website was created by Passport, Inc. and is now sponsored by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, Presbyterian Church (USA), and The Episcopal Church—an act of cooperation that in itself is thrilling.

Of course, I like the fact that you read my quasi-daily thoughts, meditations, and prayers. But if you have to choose between reading my offerings and reading those on d365.org, go there. You may be surprised by the calmness, substance, and inspiration of a website constructed for people like us. Then, if you have time, come back here.

Have a good day.

Prayer

O God, thank you for focus at the beginning of a day that already seems frazzled, calm before an inevitably intensifying storm, inspiration for a spirit that is sagging and strength for a body that is tired. Give us the good sense to fulfill our spiritual needs with at least half the regularity with which we seek to fulfill our physical needs. Amen.

Worship Preview: March 14th (The 4th Sunday in Lent)

2010-03-10T18:54:00.000-08:00

The Epistle Lesson:

2 Corinthians 5:16-18

The Contemporary Reading:

“Resentment is like taking poison and waiting for the other person to die.” ---Malachy McCourt

The Sermon Title:

Resentment/Renewal

The Sermon Preview: Although we are not explicitly reading the Parable of the Prodigal Son from the Gospel of Luke, much of the sermon will be built on the role of the elder brother in the parable.

TRACKS: The White House, Washington, D.C.

2010-03-09T19:30:00.000-08:00

“Did you accomplish anything this week?” That question, posed to me every weekend by one or more people, raced through my head repeatedly as I spent most of today in a meeting in an office of the White House. Often the answer to that query is “yes.” Today’s response is "Yes, taking one small step." However, that small step involved far more than a single day. It required an investment of focused attention, persistent action, research, commentary, and advocacy that stretched from 1999 to the present moment. And still more steps are required. 

About a year ago I was asked to serve on President Obama's Task Force on Reform of the Office of Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. The assignment of the task force was to recommend steps for bringing that office more in line with the Constitution.

I had opposed the establishment of such an office since 1999 when presidential candidates in both major political parties voiced support for allowing government funds to flow into religious organizations to support faith-based social ministries. This new initiative within the executive branch of our government posed an unprecedented threat to our nation's fidelity to the religious freedom clauses in the First Amendment of the Constitution.

The Obama Administration knew they were inviting a critic on to this task force. Indeed, U.S. News and World Report carried a story on my acceptance of the invitation on its blog. Immediately after the presidential election I had met with the Obama Transition Team to request that they abolish the faith-based office in the White House.

Today the recommendations of our task force are being presented to cabinet members and other leaders in the Administration who will engage the president in conversations about the issues we have raised. Getting to this moment took time. Members of the task force are incredibly diverse--racially, politically, professionally, religiously, economically, and ideologically. Some members wanted a relaxation of emphasis on church-state separation while others, like me, were interested in strengthening the constitutional guarantees that have saved our nation from an entanglement of religion and government that has caused problems in other nations.

Our recommendations span several concerns—transparency, public postings of recipients of government money and for what purposes, attentiveness to religious freedom issues, and more. From the first time we met, however, one question had loomed larger than all of the rest—whether or not to mandate or only suggest that religious recipients of government funds form a separate legal entity into which to receive that money in order to protect the integrity of the religious organization and prevent a merger of taxpayers’ money and tithes and contributions from offering plates. For a year, the debate went on—passionate but civil. In the end, the vote on the recommendation endorsed the mandatory position—by a majority of one. Such is the divide on the meaning of religious freedom in our nation as well.

As I sit in this White House office, I wonder if all of the time and work were worth it to assure such a small step, to win what some would consider a minimal victory for religious liberty. Yes is the answer that resounds inside me. The fate of the big issues in our time are decided by hundreds of small steps taken, minor victories won, and the Constitution defended word by word one issue at a time. At least for this moment, a slide toward government-subsidized religion has been stopped.

This small step, this minor victory, likely will go virtually unnoticed. But, without it, the news would be big—journalists reporting a sea-change, a major shift, in which legal and religious leaders endorsed a position contrary to the United States Constitution. So goes the work of a lifetime—tracked one step at a time.

Prayer

O God, thank you for the gift of freedom and citizenship in a nation dedicated to protecting freedom for everybody. Instill within us dedication sufficient for continuing the work of preserving, defending, and strengthening freedom. And deliver us from ever getting too tired to give up this cause. Amen

TRACKS: Washington, D.C.

2010-03-08T07:15:00.000-08:00

Losing time is not a pleasant thought for me. But, I am told that all of us lost time lately—not much, but some—because of the earthquake that rocked Chile a few days ago.

According to numerous earth scientists at NASA and in private research agencies as well, here is what happened. Any earthquake alters the shape of the earth to some extent. However, an 8.8 magnitude earthquake has a measurable influence, and the location of the earthquake in Chile strengthened the level of that impact even more. Under the Indian Ocean, two plates of the earth shifted. One of them (called “the Nazca” plate) slid downward underneath what is called the South American plate. The motion displaced a substantive mass which literally changed the shape of the earth. That change, in turn, altered the earth’s rotation. Changing the earth’s rotation caused a loss of time—1.26 millionth of a second of a day, to be exact.

News stories on the time loss intrigued me. Recently, I have been thinking a lot about the importance of time and the arrogance of assuming that we will have all the time we need to make decisions that need to be made and accomplish tasks on our “to do” list. I have assigned a new sense of urgency to time, and I don’t want to lose even the most fleeting moment if it can be filled with meaning aimed at helping someone else, nurturing love, doing something that needs to be done, or actually engaging in something that I want to do. We never have any assurance that there will be another such moment for us.

Prayer

O God, make us good stewards of the gift of time. Whether expending time in doing or using time for resting, we seek to live with appreciation for the time we have and a commitment to making the most of that time for the good of all. Amen.

TRACKS: Monroe, Louisiana

2010-03-06T07:09:00.000-08:00

I heard birds singing this morning; several of them really. But one was aggressive—louder, sharper, more persistent than all the others, as if declaring, “You are going to hear me if you don't hear anything else.” A mocking bird with that same attitude lived in a tree right outside my bedroom window during my late childhood and early youth.

Sadly, I seldom hear birds singing these days. I don’t know that I have ever heard a bird singing in Washington, D.C. There I hear sirens, honking horns, shrill arguments, breaking news, partisan prejudice, and low-flying aircraft. New York is much the same when it comes to sounds, though there, street musicians play the role of birds and penetrate the cacophony of unsettling noises with the twang of a guitar, the melody of a saxophone, the welcome pulsations of diverse drums, the rolling reverberations of a xylophone, and sometimes even a solo offered with a beauty that can stop traffic otherwise unaffected even by red lights and cross walks.

Since my days tend to be filled with a variety of sounds, often in my car or in my condominium, I sit quietly and drink up silence like a sponge thrown into a puddle of spilled water. But I also long for music—all kinds actually—music that gives expression to my emotions, massages my needs, and strengthens my devotion to live out dreams.

I am thankful I heard birds singing this morning. At least for today, whatever other sounds I hear will be interspersed with echoes of the music of birds.

And, of course, there is no music like that made by birds. No wonder, they can fly!

Prayer

O God, from creation we derive personal gratification. In creation we find beautification for all of life. For creation, we offer affirmation. Sensitize us to the glory around us so that we will not experience even the briefest moment of drabness when there is beauty to be seen and music to be heard. Amen

Worship Preview: March 7th (The 3rd Sunday in Lent)

2010-03-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

Scripture Readings

Isaiah 55:3-4, 6-8

1 Corinthians 10:1-5

Luke 13:1-5

Sermon Title

Blame and Blessing/Faultfinding and Forgiving

Art: "Christ Giving His Blessing" by Hans Memling (1478)

Netherlands; oil on oak

Worship Preview: February 28 (2nd Sunday in Lent)

2010-02-24T08:22:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Lessons:

Psalm 27

Luke 13:31-35

The Sermon Title:

Fear and Faith/Playing it Safe and Living with Freedom

TRACKS: New Haven, CT

2010-02-22T06:47:00.000-08:00

Today’s edition of USA Today poses the important question of whether or not Tiger Woods was sincere when he made his confessional apology last Friday. To be precise, the newspaper’s wording is “Did Tiger Woods sound sincere or not on Friday?”

Never mind the weighty questions that could be raised regarding a corporate mortgage crisis similar to the one that hit home-buyers earlier, the vicissitudes of our brave military personnel in Afghanistan trying to avoid death at the hands of extremists prostituting religion by claiming it as a motivation, and the next steps in our national health care debate. And, so much for suggesting questions about how we could offer support for Mr. Woods or what we should ask ourselves about the parts of our lives for which we should say, “I’m sorry.” The question on the table is about the sincerity of the world’s most famous golfer.

Who knows the correct answer? And, how do you know it’s correct? What does sincerity in a confession sound like?

When I was growing up, sincerity required tears. No tears, no sincerity. In ancient times, sincerity seemed to require pounding your fists against your chest. What about sincerity in people who can’t cry and who don’t want to flagellate themselves? Is it determined by a tone of voice or whether you read from a prepared statement? What if the confessor’s humiliation and fright cause stiffness in body language and formality in verbal language? Who has the formula for measuring sincerity?

I remember the morning that I sat in the East Room of the White House about two tables away from President Clinton as he confessed his wrongdoing, read from David’s psalm of repentance, asked for forgiveness, and shared his plan for healing. I sat there thinking Here I am at the very center of political power in the Free World and the leader of the Free World is confessing weakness and asking for forgiveness. The moment was overwhelming.

Once outside the White House, media representatives swarmed around with their notepads, cameras, and microphones. All of them were asking the same question, “Was he sincere?” “Do you think the president meant it?”

The reason we ask that question is because we are not equipped to make that judgment. That is precisely one reason that the Bible tells us to leave such judgments for God alone to make.

Repentance means taking a U-turn, changing directions. No one knows when another person makes that turn until the other person starts walking a different direction. Frankly, even then, no observer can judge the motivation behind the steps, what has happened in the heart.

We know what Jesus would do about this matter of judgment. Standing beside a woman about to be stoned to death because of her behavior, Jesus said, “Let those without sin cast the first stone.” Now, honestly, on that day, people responded with integrity and Jesus sent the woman on her way. Today, I fear the response to Jesus’ words would not be so clean cut and safe for the sinner. There are a lot of arrogant people intent on running the world and punishing anyone who does not see things exactly the way they do.

It’s easy to see why the season of Lent is so important. It calls us to an honesty about ourselves that leaves us no time for making judgment about others.

When Jesus speaks today to voters on sincerity and other self-appointed judges challenging them to punish another person only if without sins in their own lives—“Let only one without sin throw the first golf ball at Tiger—I am not sure the golfer would be safe. In fact, you may hear someone hollering “Duck!” Don’t be surprised if it’s Jesus.

Prayer

O God, please don’t forgive us as we forgive others. We will be in such a mess if you do. O God, please forgive us as you forgive others—all others.

TRACKS: New Haven, Connecticut

2010-02-21T18:04:00.000-08:00

C. WELTON GADDY

Well, here goes. I always have been reluctant to commit myself to writing anything on a daily or quasi-daily basis. However, as is true in so many other areas of my life, here too I have changed my mind.

Many of you regularly ask me, “Where have you been this week? What have you been doing? What are you reading? What are you thinking? What’s up next?”

Additionally, this peripatetic life, though always busy, often is a bit empty because of feeling away from and out of touch with people who are extremely important to me—the people who are Northminster Church, friends, loved ones, and individuals with whom interaction brings extraordinary richness to ordinary days.

So, I will take advantage of technology and see if I can use it sensitively to share, inform, connect with, and, if all goes well, sometimes even inspire people who care where I am geographically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well as care about nurture for their own journey. If people find tracing my “tracks” helpful, I will continue this discipline. If not, likely with the relief that comes from finding more time, I will seek other ways of relating. The first Sunday in Lent is an opportune moment to begin.

Prayer

O God, as only can be done mysteriously with the aid of your Presence, through shared thoughts, words, and meditations, draw us closer together in order for us to know each other better, find strength in each other individually, and enable us together to model a community in which boundaries are absent and love is present—all developments to which you respond saying, “Good!”

Northminster Snow

2010-02-17T18:09:00.001-08:00

Dr. Gaddy took some pictures early on Friday, February 12 of Northminster in the snow. Click here to see a slideshow of more of Dr. Gaddy's Northminster snow photos.

Ash Wednesday, February 21 at 6:30 p.m.

2010-02-17T13:46:00.000-08:00

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the forty-day Lenten journey toward Easter (excluding Sundays) in imitation of Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness following his baptism (Matthew 4:1-11). The tradition of a ceremonial imposition of ashes on the foreheads of worshipers as a sign of mortality and penitence dates back to at least the 10th century. In the 12th century, the tradition began of creating the ashes by burning the branches used on Palm Sunday the previous year.

During the season of Lent, Christians have traditionally (1) given-up a bad habit in order to loosen attachment to the aspects of our lives that unduly occupy our attention and (2) taken on a spiritual practice that helps focus this regained attention on the love of God and neighbor (Mark 12:28-31).

Examples of spiritual practices include Bible study and devotional reading, fasting and almsgiving, prayer and works of mercy (feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming the stranger, clothing the naked, caring for the sick, and visiting the imprisoned). These and many other disciplines have been used throughout history by people seeking to deepen their journey of faith.

Sunday, February 21, 2010

2010-02-16T07:17:00.000-08:00

The Gospel Lesson:

Luke 3:21-22; 4: 1-2

The Sermon Title:

"Where is God Leading You this Lent?"

The Sermon Description:

On this first Sunday of Lent, we have the same opportunity we have every year to learn the lesson of the original Lent, when Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. I invite you to consider that Jesus’ regular practice of prayer, made him open to hearing God speak the words, “You are my Beloved.” And it was Jesus’ powerful experience of God’s love that helped him, not only survive the temptations in the desert, but also that set the trajectory of a public ministry characterized by ever-increasing love and ever-widening compassion. It is not enough for you to know intellectually that Jesus was God’s Beloved. It is not enough for me to tell you that you, too, are God’s Beloved. You need to experience God’s love first-hand, for yourself. So, where is God leading you this Lent?

Epiphany: An Examination

2010-02-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

The sermon audio has been posted for Sunday, February 21. Click here to listen online. The sermon manuscript will be posted soon. We welcome reflections in response to the sermon in the comment section below.

Worship Preview: February 14 (Transfiguration Sunday)

2010-02-10T09:26:00.000-08:00

The Gospel Lesson

Luke 9:28-36

The Sermon Title

Epiphany: An Examination

Worship Preview: February 2 (The 5th Sunday after Epiphany)

2010-02-02T06:59:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Lesson:

Isaiah 6:1-8

The Sermon Title:

Epiphany: A Dynamic of Christian Worship

Worship Preview: January 31 (The 4th Sunday after Epiphany)

2010-01-26T18:46:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Lessons

Habakkuk 2:2

1 Corinthians 13

The Sermon Title:

“Epiphany on Broadway:

The Words, Acts, and Music of Life”

The Sermon Preview: The sermon will be interwoven with the following tunes from Broadway shows sung by the choir:

"Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord"
“If You Only Have Love"
“Beautiful, Beautiful World”
“You’ll Never Walk Alone”
“Love Changes Everything”
“Impossible Dream”

Worship Preview for January 24 (3rd Sunday after Epiphany)

2010-01-21T10:18:00.000-08:00

Scripture Lessons:

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10

Luke 4:14-21

Sermon Title:

"Proclaim Liberty: What If . . . ?"

Sermon Theme: Epiphany is a call to community. I will explore various dimensions of what it means to live in community.

Worship Preview for January 17 (2nd Sunday after Epiphany)

2010-01-13T15:42:00.000-08:00

Scripture Lessons:

Ephesians 3:1-10

1 Corinthians 12:1-6

Sermon Title:

Epiphany: A Gift and A Responsibility

Sermon Theme: Responsibility that is inherent in the gift of Epiphany. We are not shown or told the truth to hoard it but to share it. The second epistle reading refers to the diverse gifts that come from one Spirit.

Worship Preview: January 10th (Epiphany)

2010-01-06T07:53:00.000-08:00

Scripture Readings

Isaiah 60:1-3; Matthew 2:1-12

Sermon Title

Epiphany: A Brief “How To” Guide

Worship Preview for January 3 (2nd Sunday after Christmas)

2009-12-31T10:24:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Lesson

Numbers 13:1-3, 21, 25, 27, 31-32; 14:1, 4; 13:30

The Sermon Title:

"A Minority Opinion"

Worship Preview: December 27th (The 1st Sunday after Christmas)

2009-12-22T08:25:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Lessons

Psalm 20

Luke 8:22-25

John 6:26-32

Sermon Title

"What More Do You Want From Me?"

Worship Preview: December 20th (The 4th Sunday in Advent)

2009-12-16T07:53:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Readings

Micah 5:2, 5

Psalm 80:4-7

Luke 1:46-53

Hebrews 5:5-9

The Sermon Title

"Just a Little Christmas, and a Revolution in Religion"

Worship Preview: December 13th (The 3rd Sunday in Advent)

2009-12-09T06:01:00.000-08:00

The Hebrew Scriptures:

Zephaniah 3:14,19-20

Isaiah 12: 2-6

The Christian Scriptures:

Luke 3:7-13, 16-17

Philippians 4:4

Sermon Title:

The Best Laid Plans . . . Rejoice!

Worship Preview: December 6 (The 2nd Sunday in Advent)

2009-12-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Readings: Luke 3:1-6; Philippians 1:6, 9-11a

The Sermon Title: "Things We Cannot Do and Things God Will Not Do"

Sermon Preview: "First, we cannot force God to do anything by our preparation for God's action. God acts at God's initiative. For example, the reality of Christmas does not come in response to the quality of our preparation for Christmas, but as a result of God's mercy and action. Second, God cannot assure a peace for which we are responsible. God chooses to respect our freedom of choice even if that meant a lack of fulfillment of God's will. God waits for us to do what only we can do -- make peace."

Worship Preview: Sunday, November 29

2009-11-25T18:35:00.000-08:00

Sermon: "Come Home!"

Scriptures: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Luke 21:25-27

Worship Preview for November 22 (Reign of Christ Sunday)

2009-11-18T09:23:00.000-08:00

Biblical Texts:

Psalm 93:1-5

John 18:33-37

Sermon Title:

"If Not A King..."

Worship Preview for November 15

2009-11-10T17:36:00.000-08:00

The Scripture Lesson

2 Timothy 4:6-18, 21

The Sermon Title

"Before Winter"

Worship Preview: Sunday, November 8

2009-11-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

Scriptures: Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17; Mark 12:41-44

Sermon: "Security: Product of a Partnership"

Worship Preview: Sunday, November 1 (All Saint's Day)

2009-10-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

Texts: Psalm 16:1-16; Hebrews 11:17-32, 39

Title: Criteria for Sainthood

Worship Preview: Sunday, October 25

2009-10-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

Scriptures: Romans 3:24-28; John17:20-25

Sermon: "The Challenge of Reformation: Diversity, Unity, and Integrity"

Worship Preview for October 18

2009-10-15T18:41:00.001-07:00

Texts:

Joel 2:28-29

John 14:1-6b

Sermon Title:

A Spiritual Vision and A Practical Plan

Worship Preview: 11 October 2009

2009-10-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

The 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B

The Call to Worship

Psalm 111

The Gospel Lesson

Luke 12:22-32

The Contemporary Reading

"Not too long ago a priest told me that he canceled his subscription to The New York Times because he felt that the endless stories about war, crime, power games and political manipulation only disturbed his mind and heart, and prevented him from meditation and prayer. That is a sad story because it suggests that only by denying the world can you live in it, that only by surrounding yourself by an artificial, self-induced quietude can you live a spiritual life. A real spiritual life does exactly the opposite: it makes us so alert and aware of the world around us, that all that is and happens becomes part of our contemplation and meditation and invites us to a free and fearless response." (from Henri Nouwen, Reaching Out)

The Sermon

"Keep Your Eyes on the Ancient Interpreters" (Rev. Carl Gregg)

Worship Preview: Sunday, October 4

2009-09-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Scripture Lesson: Psalm 27:1-14

Sermon Title: "Living in the Shadow"

Worship Preview for September 27

2009-09-23T14:44:00.001-07:00

Scripture Readings: Numbers 11:26-29; Mark 9:38-40

Sermon Title: The Extended Family of God

Worship Preview: Sunday, September 20

2009-09-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

Epistle Lesson: James 3:13-18; 4:1

Gospel Lesson: Mark 9:30-34

Sermon Title: "From the Inside Out"

Worship Preview: 13 September 2009

2009-09-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

The 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B

13 September 2009

The Call to Worship

One: To know the way of Jesus is to know Jesus. And, to follow Jesus is to walk in that way.

Many: We are always in the process of learning more about Jesus and better understanding his way.

One: We consistently face choices because life is filled with alternatives.

Many: To know our way is to know us. God help us live into a reality that defines the persons we intend to be.

The Gospel Lesson: Mark 8:27-30

The Sermon: How Do You Know Who I Am?

The Service of Christian Baptism: After the sermon, worship will continue on the shore of the bayou behind the house of Vickie and Bill Krutzer (3018 River Oaks Drive in Monroe) for the baptism of Mrs. Alex Powell.

Worship Preview: Sunday, September 6

2009-09-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

Gospel Lesson: Mark 8:36-37

Sermon Title: What Do You Do For A Living?

Sermon Topic: The spiritual concerns related to physical labor.

Worship Preview for Sunday, August 30

2009-08-24T15:02:00.000-07:00

The Epistle Lesson: Romans 9:1-5

The Hebrew Scripture: Genesis 32:22-31

The Sermon: "The Wrestler, the River, and the Dawn" (Dr. Darrell Cluck)

Worship Preview for Sunday, August 23

2009-08-20T11:49:00.001-07:00

Gospel Lesson: Luke 18:15-16

Sermon Title: "Children of God"

Worship Preview: Sunday, August 9

2009-08-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

Scripture Readings:
Deuteronomy 8:1-10; John 6:31-35

Sermon Title:
"You Would Think We Should Know This By Now"

Worship Preview: August 2

2009-07-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 51

Sermon Title:
"Simple Religion in Complex Situations: The Challenge and the Promise"

Worship Preview for Sunday, July 19

2009-07-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

Scripture: Galatians 1:6-12

Sermon: "Affirming the Gospel, Risking Heresy, Living with Liberty"

Worship Preview: 5 July 2009

2009-07-01T13:39:00.000-07:00

The Epistle Lesson: Romans 13:1-6

*The Gospel Lesson: Matthew 22:15-21

The Sermon: Toward “A More Perfect Union”

Sunday, June 28

2009-06-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

The Scripture Lesson: Psalm 121

The Voluntary: "Song without Words Op. 19, No. 4" -- Mendelssohn

The Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 3:14-20

The Anthem: "Now the Silence" --Carl Schalk

The Sermon: "I’m Finding My Way" -- Dr. Deborah Chandler

Worship Preview for Sunday, June 28

2009-06-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

A Note from Dr. Gaddy: "On Sunday June 28th, I will be winging my way back from a speaking engagement at a convention in Salt Lake City. However, in my absence from Northminster, you will have the pleasure and the benefit of a sermon delivered by Dr. Deborah Chandler. I remember well the glowing expressions of affirmation and appreciation that followed the last time Debi spoke from the Northminster pulpit. I have no doubt the same will be true again."

Sunday, June 7

2009-06-02T13:13:00.001-07:00

This week's worship will be planned by the Northminster members currently on a mission trip to our sister congregation in Cuba.

Worship Preview: Sunday 31 May 2009

2009-05-27T15:57:00.001-07:00

Scripture Lesson: Acts 2:1-17

Gospel Lesson: Mark 1:14-20

Sermon Title: "Pentecost 2009: Progressivism, Pluralism, Pragmatism"

Worship Preview: Sunday, May 24, 2009

2009-05-18T11:39:00.000-07:00

Historical Reading: Acts 1:8-11, 21-26

Sermon Title: Who Will Be A Witness?

Worship Preview: Sunday, May 17, 2009

2009-05-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

Gospel Reading: John 15:9-17

Sermon Title: "That We May Have Joy"

Worship Preview: Sunday, May 10, 2009

2009-05-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reading: 1 John 4:7-21

Sermon Title: "In Praise of Love"

Sunday, May 3

2009-04-28T12:40:00.000-07:00

Scripture Readings: Psalm 23; John 10:11-18

Sermon Title: "Alias — The Great Lover"

Worship Preview: Sunday, April 26, 2009

2009-04-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

Scripture Readings: Luke 24:36b-48; 1 John 3:1-7

Sermon Title: "Trying to Figure it Out"

Worship Preview: Sunday, April 19, 2009

2009-04-14T11:39:00.001-07:00

Scripture Lesson: 1 John 1:1-2:2

Sermon Title: How to Proceed: A Memo of Understanding

Easter Sunday, April 12

2009-04-07T10:01:00.001-07:00

Gospel Lesson: John 23:55 – 24:5

Sermon Title: Surprise!

Palm Sunday, April 5

2009-04-02T10:29:00.001-07:00

Sermon Title: "Pass the Bread Please"

Gospel Lesson: Matthew 16:18-19; 21:1, 8-9

Sunday, March 29, 2009

2009-03-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

The Last Sunday in Lent

Scripture Readings: Genesis 6:11-15; 1 Peter 3:18

Sermon Title: The Danger of Obedience is a Mark of True Religion

Worship Preview: Sunday, March 22, 2009

2009-03-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hebrew Scripture Reading:

Numbers 21:4-9

Gospel Reading:

John 3:14-15

Sermon Title:

The Bondage that is the Way to Liberation

Worship Preview: March 15, 2009

2009-03-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Epistle Reading: Romans 7:13-25

Sermon Title: "The Reality of Sin Is a Prerequisite to Forgiveness"

Worship Preview: Sunday, March 8

2009-03-05T09:15:00.000-08:00

The 2nd Sunday in Lent, Year B

The Hebrew Scripture (Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18)

The Epistle Lesson (Romans 4:13, 20-22)

The Anthem (from Requiem by W. A. Mozart)

That day of tears and mourning, when from the ashes shall arise, all humanity to be judged. Spare us by your mercy, Lord, gentle Lord Jesus, grant them eternal rest. Amen.

The Sermon: "The Plague of Passion is the Promise of Love"

Sermon Preview: Sunday, March 1

2009-02-25T08:57:00.001-08:00

The Sermon Title: "Yes, It’s Lent; But . . ."

The Gospel Reading: Mark 8:31-33

31 Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, "Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things."

Sermon Preview: February 22

2009-02-18T17:19:00.000-08:00

Biblical Texts:

2 Kings 2:1-12; 2 Corinthians 4:6

Sermon Title:

What Do You Want Before It's Gone?

Sermon Description:

This is a final-Sunday-in-Epiphany sermon that reaffirms the truth of Epiphany while laying the foundation for entering the season of Lent.