----- title: “St. John’s United Church of Christ - October 19, 2025” date: 2025-10-19 church: “St. John’s United Church of Christ” location: “Chambersburg, PA” theme: “Desire, Justice, and God’s Presence” pastor: “Rev. Caroline E. Saxton” tags: - church - bulletin - worship - StJohnsUCC - sermon-notes - ordinary-time - pentecost-season - hymn-575 - hymn-285 - year-c type: sermon-notes scripture: - John 7:14-24 - 1 Samuel 16:1-13 - Psalm 51:10-14 hymns: - 575 - 285 date_created: 2025-10-19 date_modified: 2025-10-19 liturgical_season: “Ordinary Time (Season after Pentecost)” liturgical_week: “19th Sunday after Pentecost” liturgical_year: “Year C” liturgical_color: “Green” christian_observances: “None” jewish_calendar: hebrew_date: “27 Tishrei 5786” month: “Tishrei” observances: “Post-Sukkot/Simchat Torah period; Torah portion Bereishit” ecumenical_observances: “None” aliases: - “St. John’s United Church of Christ” linter-yaml-title-alias: “St. John’s United Church of Christ” ----- # St. John’s United Church of Christ ## Chambersburg, Pennsylvania ### Sunday, October 19, 2025 ## Liturgical Context ### Christian Liturgical Calendar **Season**: Ordinary Time (Season after Pentecost) **Week**: 19th Sunday after Pentecost (also known as 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time) **Lectionary Year**: Year C **Liturgical Color**: Green **Christian Observances Today**: None ### Jewish Calendar **Hebrew Date**: 27 Tishrei 5786 **Month**: Tishrei **Jewish Observances**: This date falls in the period following the High Holy Days cycle of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Simchat Torah (which concluded on October 15). The Jewish community has just completed the joyous celebration of Simchat Torah, marking the completion and restart of the annual Torah reading cycle. This week’s Torah portion is Bereishit (Genesis 1:1-6:8), the very beginning of the Torah, symbolizing renewal and new beginnings. ### Ecumenical & Global Observances None for this date. (World Communion Sunday was observed October 5, 2025) ### Lectionary Readings (Revised Common Lectionary - Year C) **Note**: St. John’s is using different scripture readings this week (see below) **Hebrew Bible/Old Testament**: Jeremiah 31:27-34 **Psalm**: Psalm 119:97-104 **Epistle/New Testament**: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 **Gospel**: Luke 18:1-8 ### Connection to Today’s Message Today’s worship at St. John’s focuses on themes of desire, justice, and God’s transforming presence, as expressed through readings from 1 Samuel 16 (God’s choice of David) and John 7 (Jesus teaching in the temple). This comes at a meaningful moment in the Jewish calendar, just days after Simchat Torah celebrated the completion and renewal of the Torah cycle. The theme of new beginnings in Bereishit (Genesis) resonates with the Christian emphasis on transformation and God seeing beyond outward appearances to the heart. The readings chosen by St. John’s emphasize that God grants our deepest needs while calling us to justice and compassion, echoing the post-festival period in Judaism when the community transitions from celebration back to regular life with renewed commitment to Torah study and practice. ## Order of Worship ### Call to Worship **Theme**: “God Calls David” *Please stand in body or in spirit* ### Gathering Song **Hymn**: “This is the Day” ### Unison Welcome “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here” ### Announcements ### Passing of the Peace *“The peace of Christ be with you”* — *“And also with you”* ### Chiming of the Trinity ### Prelude ### Call to Worship *by Christine Sobania Johnson, posted on Freshly Squeezed Liturgy* This new day is fresh with possibility to encounter the Living Christ. **With bright eyes, let us search.** This new day is fresh with possibility to understand the Living Christ. **With engaged minds, let us ponder.** This new day is fresh with possibility to be moved by the Living Christ. **With compassionate hearts, let us feel.** This new day is fresh with possibility to respond to the Living Christ. **With solid devotion, let us follow.** This new day is fresh with possibility to serve the Living Christ. **With humble intention, let us act.** This new day is fresh with possibility to praise the Living Christ. **With strong voices, let us sing.** ### Hymn #575 - “O for a World” *Miriam Therese Winter, 1987* *Acts 4:32-35; 1 Cor. 1:26-31; 1 Pet. 3:8-12* *Tune: AZMON C.M.* *Carl G. Gläser, 1828* *Adapt. Lowell Mason in Modern Psalmody, 1839* **Verse 1** O for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways, Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise. **Verse 2** O for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved, Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved. **Verse 3** We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice That opens us to unity and gives our vision voice. **Verse 4** The poor are rich, the weak are strong, the foolish ones are wise. Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise. **Verse 5** O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace, Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease. *Inspired by Charles Wesley’s phrase “O for a thousand tongues” and the familiar tune Azmon, Miriam Therese Winter wrote this hymn envisioning a new world order for the Presbyterian Women’s Triennial Conference in 1982. It was later rerafted and recorded by the Medical Mission Sisters.* ----- ### Prayer of the Day *by Thom Shuman, posted on Lectionary Liturgies (adapted)* **Holy One**: you anoint us with living water, so we may go to serve the world in these troubled days. **You open our eyes so we will see everyone as our sisters and brothers and siblings.** **Seed Planter**: you place faith deep within us, so we can bear witness to your just and loving kin(g)dom. **Your love regulates our hearts, so we can welcome all in your name.** **Gentle Spirit**: when we cannot see the way, you take us by the hand so we can step forward, in faith, into the kin(g)dom. **You fill us with hope, so we can sing God’s joy all our days. Amen.** ### Prayer for Illumination *from Feasting on the Word Worship Companion* **Holy God, by the gift of your Spirit show us the truth that you desire and teach us wisdom in our hearts. Let us hear with joy and gladness the Word that you speak today; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.** ## Scripture and Sermon ### Scripture Reading **Primary Reading**: John 7:14-24 > [!bible]+ [John 7:14-24 - NRSVCE](https://bolls.life/NRSVCE/43/7/) > 14. About the middle of the festival Jesus went up into the temple and began to teach. > 15. The Jews were astonished at it, saying, “How does this man have such learning, when he has never been taught?” > 16. Then Jesus answered them, “My teaching is not mine but his who sent me. > 17. Anyone who resolves to do the will of God will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own. > 18. Those who speak on their own seek their own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true, and there is nothing false in him. > 19. “Did not Moses give you the law? Yet none of you keeps the law. Why are you looking for an opportunity to kill me?” > 20. The crowd answered, “You have a demon! Who is trying to kill you?” > 21. Jesus answered them, “I performed one work, and all of you are astonished. > 22. Moses gave you circumcision (it is, of course, not from Moses, but from the patriarchs), and you circumcise a man on the sabbath. > 23. If a man receives circumcision on the sabbath in order that the law of Moses may not be broken, are you angry with me because I healed a man’s whole body on the sabbath? > 24. Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” %% #John7 %% ### Additional Scripture Readings **Old Testament**: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 **Psalm**: Psalm 51:10-14 > [!bible]+ [1 Samuel 16:1-13 - NRSVCE](https://bolls.life/NRSVCE/9/16/) > 1. The LORD said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul? I have rejected him from being king over Israel. Fill your horn with oil and set out; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.” > 2. Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears of it, he will kill me.” And the LORD said, “Take a heifer with you, and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’ > 3. Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do; and you shall anoint for me the one whom I name to you.” > 4. Samuel did what the LORD commanded, and came to Bethlehem. The elders of the city came to meet him trembling, and said, “Do you come peaceably?” > 5. He said, “Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD; sanctify yourselves and come with me to the sacrifice.” And he sanctified Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice. > 6. When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the LORD’s anointed is now before the LORD.” > 7. But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the LORD does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” > 8. Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. He said, “Neither has the LORD chosen this one.” > 9. Then Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, “Neither has the LORD chosen this one.” > 10. Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel, and Samuel said to Jesse, “The LORD has not chosen any of these.” > 11. Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here.” > 12. He sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and had beautiful eyes, and was handsome. The LORD said, “Rise and anoint him; for this is the one.” > 13. Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the presence of his brothers; and the spirit of the LORD came mightily upon David from that day forward. Samuel then set out and went to Ramah. %% #1Samuel16 %% > [!bible]+ [Psalm 51:10-14 - NRSVCE](https://bolls.life/NRSVCE/19/51/) > 10. Create in me a clean heart, O God, <br>and put a new and right spirit within me.<br> > 11. Do not cast me away from your presence, <br>and do not take your holy spirit from me.<br> > 12. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, <br>and sustain in me a willing spirit. <br> > 13. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, <br>and sinners will return to you.<br> > 14. Deliver me from bloodshed, O God, <br>O God of my salvation, <br>and my tongue will sing aloud of your deliverance. <br> %% #Psalm51 %% ### Responsive Reading *“Desire” (a remix of Psalm 20) by Beth A. Richardson* I wish God would grant my heart’s desires and fulfill all my plans. **Or if not my desires, at least the needs of the poor, the hungry, the houseless, those enslaved by fear or by circumstance.** If God is not a heavenly vending machine, granting the hearts’ desires of the entire world, may the Holy One offer presence, at least: **a comforting, strengthening, healing presence for those who hearts are broken, those whose lives are filled with loneliness or despair, those whose spirits cry out for justice and shalom.** ### Anthem **Title**: “Great is Thy Faithfulness” **Arrangement**: Gilbert M. Martin ### Children’s Message **Leader**: Roxanne Davenport *Children’s Corner will be offered following the Children’s Message* ## Worship Response ### Sermon **Preacher**: Rev. Caroline E. Saxton **Title**: [I’ll add title here] **Theme**: Desire, Justice, and God’s Presence #### 📑 Comprehensive Sermon Analysis: "The Call of David" (1 Samuel 16:1-13) --- ##### ✅ **Comprehensive Sermon Analysis** ###### **🗒 Sermon Summary** - **Central Message:** The sermon emphasizes **spiritual discernment and openness to God's surprising choices**. The core message is that God subverts human expectations by choosing unlikely leaders (David, the youngest shepherd) and calls us to maintain flexible hearts and minds while listening for God's direction. It balances personal transformation (cultivating a "clean heart") with communal responsibility (discerning God's work in the congregation's strategic plan). - **Liturgical/Thematic Focus:** Clearly connected to the lectionary reading from 1 Samuel 16:1-13 (Samuel anointing David) and Psalm 51:10-14 (creating a clean heart). The sermon integrates these texts to explore themes of divine calling, unexpected leadership, and spiritual receptivity. The timing appears to follow a previous sermon on Samuel's call, creating a multi-week narrative arc. **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** The message is crystal clear, strongly integrated with the biblical texts, and effectively balances personal spiritual formation with communal discernment. The connection between ancient scripture and contemporary congregational life is explicit and well-developed. --- ###### **🎙 Preaching Style Assessment** - **Primary Style(s):** - **Expository** - Text-centered, working through 1 Samuel 16 sequentially - **Textual** - Focused deeply on a single passage with Psalm 51 as complementary text - **Topical elements** - Weaves the theme of discernment throughout - **Conversational** - Natural, accessible tone with direct congregational address - **Blend of Styles:** The sermon effectively integrates expository foundation with topical application and conversational delivery. It moves from biblical narrative to theological reflection to practical congregational application seamlessly. - **Appropriateness:** The style serves the text exceptionally well. The conversational approach makes ancient narrative accessible while maintaining exegetical integrity. The blend allows for both teaching (expository) and inspiration (topical/conversational). **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** The preaching style is clear, well-executed, and perfectly suited to both the text and the apparent congregation (one engaged in strategic planning and book studies). The blend of styles creates accessibility without sacrificing depth. --- ###### **🧵 Storytelling and Illustration** **Effective Stories/Illustrations:** 1. **Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah"** - Opens the sermon with contemporary cultural reference that connects to biblical literacy. Notes multiple artists (Jeff Buckley, Rufus Wainwright, Lucy Thomas, Pentatonix) and mentions 500+ versions, making it inclusive and accessible across generations. 2. **Personal Discovery** - "When I was in high school, I discovered alternative rock..." - Makes the preacher relatable and human. 3. **Jesse's Household Scene** - "Can you imagine the scene in Jesse's house when Samuel shows up and each son wonders if he is the one chosen, only to be told? No, not you. Jesse must have been mortified..." - Brings ancient text to life with imaginative empathy. 4. **Sunday Night Acts Study** - References ongoing congregational study, creating continuity and inclusivity for those participating. 5. **Monday Afternoon Book Study** - Mentions Diana Butler Bass's _A People's History of Christianity_, connecting sermon themes to broader congregational learning. **Cultural/Age Diversity:** - Excellent range: Alternative rock (millennials/Gen X), multiple musical artists (cross-generational), biblical references (traditional), contemporary issues (social media, climate change) - Inclusive without tokenism **Balance with Scripture:** Stories support and illuminate scripture rather than overshadowing it. The Cohen reference serves as entry point but doesn't dominate. The sermon maintains textual focus throughout. **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** Illustrations are culturally diverse, age-inclusive, well-balanced with scripture, and enhance rather than distract from the biblical message. The weaving of congregational life (studies, strategic plan) creates a sense of shared journey. --- ###### **🗣 Intonation and Delivery** **Based on Transcript Analysis:** - **Tone:** Warm, conversational, invitational. Uses phrases like "Will you pray with me?" and "pay attention" that suggest direct engagement. - **Pacing Indicators:** The sermon includes natural transitions and paragraph breaks that suggest intentional pacing. Questions are used effectively ("You want me to do what now?") to create vocal variety. - **Inclusive Language:** Consistently uses "we" and "us" rather than "you" - creates shared spiritual journey rather than preacher-above-congregation dynamic. - **Accessible Language:** Complex theological concepts (discernment, incarnation, strategic planning) are explained in everyday terms. **Evidence of Multi-Modal Learning:** - **Auditory:** Clear verbal progression, use of questions - **Visual:** References to scenes ("imagine the scene"), visual metaphors ("clean heart," "solid rock") - **Kinesthetic:** Invitation to prayer with physical posture ("Will you pray with me?") - **Interpersonal:** References to group studies and communal discernment - **Intrapersonal:** Invitations to personal reflection ("What does God call us to do?") **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** The sermon demonstrates excellent inclusive language, accessibility across learning styles, and warm conversational tone. The use of questions and direct address suggests dynamic vocal delivery. --- ###### **📝 Content Structure** **Clear Three-Part Structure:** **Introduction (Strong):** - Hook: Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" - culturally relevant entry point - Connection to previous sermon (Samuel's call) - Transition to today's text (David's anointing) **Body (Well-Organized, 4 Main Movements):** 1. **Samuel's Challenge** - The risk and resistance of God's call - Key question: "You want me to do what now?" - Pattern of biblical reluctance 2. **The Discernment Process** - Samuel's patience through Jesse's sons - Application: Congregational strategic plan as living discernment - Theology: "God looks to the heart" 3. **God's Subversive Choices** - David as unexpected leader - Cross-reference to Acts study - Theme: God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways 4. **Cultivating Openness** - The "clean heart" from Psalm 51 - Tools: Curiosity, flexibility, trust - Historical wisdom: Diana Butler Bass reference **Conclusion (Clear and Invitational):** - Summary: Open heart + open mind = faithful discernment - Call to solidarity with vulnerable - Transition to prayer time **Transitions:** Smooth and logical. Uses phrases like "How do we get here?", "So it helps to be...", "All of this requires us..." that guide listeners through the argument. **Accessibility Features:** - Rhetorical questions for engagement - Repetition of key themes (listening, openness, clean heart) - Clear signposting ("One of the more fascinating things...") **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** Excellent structure with clear introduction, well-organized body with logical progression, and invitational conclusion. Transitions are smooth and support multiple learning styles through repetition and varied approaches. --- ###### **👥 Engagement and Application** **Congregational Participation:** - **Direct Address:** "Will you pray with me?", "So pay attention" - **Shared Identity:** Consistent use of "we" and "us" and "our" - **Named Activities:** References to Sunday night study (Acts), Monday afternoon study (Butler Bass), strategic planning process **Inclusion of Marginalized Groups:** - **Explicit:** "We care deeply about our neighbors and we stand in solidarity with the vulnerable and marginalized" - **Theological Framework:** God consistently chooses "the least likely, the unexpected and the marginal" - **Biblical Pattern:** David (youngest, shepherd) as model for God's subversive choices **Practical Applications:** 1. **Personal:** - "God might be asking us to flip a few scripts in our own lives" - Cultivate curiosity as spiritual tool - Create "spaciousness" in heart "free from worries, stress, resentments, score keeping, and over responsibility" 2. **Communal:** - Discernment through strategic planning - Participation in study groups - "Listen, learn, and love, as well as welcome worship, witness and serve" 3. **Systemic:** - Standing "in solidarity with the vulnerable and marginalized" - Awareness of contemporary challenges (social media, climate change) **Interactive Elements:** - Prayer invitation at beginning and end - Questions posed for reflection - Joys and concerns time follows sermon **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** Exceptional engagement that treats congregation as active participants in shared discernment. Explicitly names marginalized communities, provides practical multi-level applications, and integrates congregational life meaningfully. The move from personal to communal to systemic is well-developed. --- ###### **📖 Scripture Handling** **List of Scriptures Referenced:** **Primary Texts (Explicitly Read):** 1. **1 Samuel 16:1-13** - Samuel anointing David (complete passage read) 2. **Psalm 51:10-14** - Create in me a clean heart (complete passage read) **Secondary References (Alluded to or Mentioned):** 3. **Book of Judges** - Samson and Delilah (via "Hallelujah" lyrics) 4. **2 Samuel** - David and Bathsheba (via "Hallelujah" lyrics) 5. **1 Samuel 3** - Samuel's call story (referenced from previous week) 6. **Acts** - Ongoing Sunday study on ordinary people used by God 7. **Matthew 7:24-25** (implied) - "Built our house on solid rock" 8. **Ephesians 2:20** (implied) - "Jesus Christ as the cornerstone" **Depth of Exegesis:** **Historical/Cultural Context:** - ✅ Explains the transition from judges to kings - ✅ Notes the political risk Samuel faces from King Saul - ✅ Clarifies David's status as youngest/shepherd (marginal position) - ✅ Distinguishes King Saul from Saul/Paul of Christian scripture **Theological Insights:** - **Central Theme:** "God doesn't look at things like humans do. Humans see only what is visible to the eyes, but the Lord sees into the heart" - **Pattern Recognition:** God's consistent subversion of social/political expectations - **Christological Connection:** "One that, excuse me, culminates with Jesus" - **Ecclesiological:** Application to church strategic planning and communal discernment **Cross-References:** - Acts study (ordinary people, extraordinary purposes) - Psalm 51 paired intentionally with 1 Samuel 16 for theological depth - Multiple biblical allusions woven naturally throughout **Foundation:** - **Strongly Text-Driven** - The sermon emerges from and returns to 1 Samuel 16 repeatedly - The structure follows the biblical narrative (Samuel's call → Jesse's sons → David's anointing) **Justice/Equity/Inclusion Lens:** - ✅ **God's preferential option:** "God chooses the least likely, the unexpected and the marginal" - ✅ **Contemporary application:** "We stand in solidarity with the vulnerable and marginalized" - ✅ **Systemic awareness:** Acknowledges modern challenges (social media, climate change) that amplify marginalization **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** Excellent scripture handling with deep exegetical work, clear historical context, strong theological integration, and responsible justice-oriented interpretation. The sermon is firmly text-driven while making meaningful contemporary connections. Multiple texts are woven together coherently. --- ###### **⚖️ Logical Reasoning** **Strong Reasoning Present:** 1. **Deductive Structure (Samuel → David → Congregation):** - **Premise 1:** Samuel had to listen carefully to God's surprising direction - **Premise 2:** God chose the unexpected (youngest, shepherd) - **Conclusion:** We must also remain open to God's surprising work in our community - **Impact:** Clear, logical progression from biblical text to contemporary application 2. **Cause-and-Effect Clarity:** - "Samuel keeps listening to God's voice throughout the whole process... God will surprise us, challenge us, even astonish and delight us" - **Impact:** Shows listening → openness → transformation pattern 3. **Pattern Recognition (Biblical-Historical-Contemporary):** - Biblical pattern: Initial incredulity to God's call (Samuel, Moses, Jonah) - Historical: Church ancestors faced similar challenges - Contemporary: "Challenges we face now are nothing new" - **Impact:** Creates confidence through continuity 4. **Definition and Development:** - "Discernment is not just a matter of listening. It's a matter of acting" - Develops concept throughout: listening + action + flexibility = faithful discernment - **Impact:** Prevents passive spirituality 5. **Balanced Theological Reasoning:** - "Doubt does not equal disbelief. Curiosity is a tool of exploration. All of this is in service of faith, which is about trust, not certainty." - **Impact:** Nuanced understanding that creates space for honest questioning **Potential Logical Concerns (Minor):** 1. **Implied Syllogism - Strategic Plan:** - **Statement:** "There have been so many aspects of it that we're fulfilling even when we don't have the document in front of us. We can see how God is at work among us." - **Analysis:** This could be read two ways: - **Stronger reading:** God's work exceeds/precedes human planning (theological point) - **Weaker reading:** Post hoc reasoning (we're doing it, therefore God ordained it) - **Assessment:** Context suggests the stronger reading, but could be clarified - **Impact:** Minimal - the point is about discerning God's work, not claiming all actions are divinely mandated - **Improvement:** "We can discern God's work among us as we participate in these activities and reflect on their alignment with God's values" 2. **Appeal to Authority (Diana Butler Bass):** - **Quote:** "Church History has a lot of wisdom to offer us" - **Analysis:** This is appropriate use of scholarly authority (historical wisdom), not fallacious - **Why it works:** Acknowledges limitations ("even if we don't always think that we can relate") and uses history as conversation partner, not proof-text **No Significant Fallacies Detected:** - No strawman arguments - No ad hominem attacks - No false dilemmas - No slippery slopes - No circular reasoning - No hasty generalizations - Appeals to emotion are grounded in biblical narrative and theology **Theological Logic:** - **Consistent:** God's character as one who subverts expectations is traced through multiple texts - **Coherent:** Personal transformation + communal discernment + systemic solidarity form integrated whole - **Contextual:** Applications emerge naturally from exegesis rather than being imposed **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** The sermon demonstrates strong deductive and inductive reasoning, clear cause-and-effect relationships, pattern recognition across time periods, and nuanced theological thinking. The one minor point about the strategic plan is handled with enough theological framing to avoid post hoc fallacy. Overall, the logic is sound, accessible, and well-developed. --- ###### **📚 References** **Theologians/Scholars Cited:** 1. **Diana Butler Bass** - _A People's History of Christianity: The Other Side of the Story_ - Context: Monday afternoon book study - Use: Historical wisdom for contemporary challenges - **Assessment:** Excellent choice - Bass is known for accessible, justice-oriented church history **Artists/Cultural Figures:** 2. **Leonard Cohen** - Songwriter, "Hallelujah" - Used as cultural bridge to biblical literacy 3. **Jeff Buckley** - Musician 4. **Rufus Wainwright** - Musician 5. **Lucy Thomas** - Musician 6. **Pentatonix** - Musical group - All used to show widespread engagement with Cohen's biblical themes **Marginalized Voices:** **Assessment:** - **Limited explicit citation** of marginalized theologians in this particular sermon - **However:** The theological content strongly centers marginalized perspectives: - God's preferential option for "the least likely, the unexpected and the marginal" - Solidarity with "the vulnerable and marginalized" - David as marginalized figure (youngest, shepherd, dismissed by family) **Potential Additions:** - Could incorporate voices like Wil Gafney (womanist Old Testament scholar) - Miguel De La Torre (Latinx ethics) - James Cone (Black liberation theology) **Historical References:** 7. **Church History** - Via Diana Butler Bass - "Our spiritual ancestors" and "forefathers and mothers in faith" - Inclusive language used **Biblical Literacy Context:** - The sermon assumes and encourages biblical literacy through multiple references - Makes connections accessible while rewarding deeper knowledge **Scoring: 4/5** **Rationale:** Good integration of scholarly work (Butler Bass) and cultural references that broaden accessibility. The theological content is strongly oriented toward marginalized perspectives, but could be strengthened by explicitly citing marginalized theologians. The use of Diana Butler Bass (a feminist historian) is excellent, and the inclusive language throughout is commendable. One point deducted for opportunity to name additional diverse theological voices. --- ###### **🗨 Quotes and Illustrative Stories** **Impactful Biblical Quotes (from the text itself):** 1. **"God doesn't look at things like humans do. Humans see only what is visible to the eyes, but the Lord sees into the heart."** - **Connection:** Central theological theme driving entire sermon - **Impact:** Reframes how congregation understands divine calling and human worth 2. **"Create in me a clean heart, oh God, and put a new and right spirit within me."** - **Connection:** Paired with 1 Samuel to show interior transformation needed for discernment - **Impact:** Personal application of communal calling narrative **Impactful Sermon Quotes:** 3. **"Doubt does not equal disbelief. Curiosity is a tool of exploration. All of this is in service of faith, which is about trust, not certainty."** - **Biblical Theme:** Samuel's questioning, biblical pattern of resistance - **Theological Truth:** Faith as relationship rather than intellectual certainty - **Lived Experience:** Gives permission for honest questioning in faith journey - **Impact:** Liberating for those who struggle with doubt 4. **"God invites us to new ways of seeing, believing and being."** - **Biblical Theme:** Samuel's need to see differently than human seeing - **Theological Truth:** Transformation is holistic (epistemology, belief, ontology) - **Lived Experience:** Applied to congregational strategic planning - **Impact:** Opens imagination for change 5. **"A clean heart is an open heart."** - **Biblical Theme:** Psalm 51 interpretation - **Theological Truth:** Purity = receptivity, not rigidity - **Lived Experience:** Creates space "free from worries, stress, resentments, score keeping, and over responsibility" - **Impact:** Redefines holiness as spaciousness rather than moralism 6. **"Our roots are planted deep in the soil of God's love. We built our house on solid rock with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone."** - **Biblical Theme:** Multiple scripture allusions - **Theological Truth:** Foundation for navigating change - **Lived Experience:** Reassurance amid disruption - **Impact:** Grounding and stabilizing **Illustrative Stories (Already covered in Storytelling section, brief summary):** 7. **Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah"** - Bridge between popular culture and biblical literacy 8. **Jesse's Household Scene** - Imaginative reconstruction that humanizes ancient text: "Jesse must have been mortified when Samuel asks if he has any more sons" 9. **Congregational Studies** - Acts (Sunday), Butler Bass (Monday) - Creates narrative of shared learning **Rhetorical Questions (Effective):** 10. **"You want me to do what now?"** - Captures Samuel's astonishment, makes ancient figure relatable 11. **"What does God call us to do? How does God want us to live and serve? Who does God invite us to be?"** - Three-part structure engaging different levels of vocation - Personal (do), ethical (live/serve), ontological (be) **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** The sermon contains multiple memorable quotes that successfully connect biblical themes, theological truths, and lived experience. The language is fresh and compelling. The interpretive work on "clean heart = open heart" is particularly strong. The stories and questions enhance rather than replace theological depth. Quotes would be easily referenced by listeners later. --- ###### **🔄 Calls to Action** **Identified Calls:** **1. Cultivate Spiritual Listening (Personal/Communal)** - **Quote:** "May we continue to listen for God with an open heart and an open mind. With curiosity and compassion so that we can do the work that God has given us to do." - **Type:** Personal spiritual practice + Communal discernment - **Connection:** Directly from Samuel's example in 1 Samuel 16 - **Modality:** - Auditory (listening) - Interpersonal (communal discernment) - Intrapersonal (heart/mind openness) **2. Practice Curiosity and Flexibility (Personal)** - **Quote:** "God might be asking us to flip a few scripts in our own lives, so pay attention." - **Type:** Personal transformation - **Connection:** Samuel's willingness to see differently - **Justice Tie:** Flipping scripts relates to subverting oppressive expectations - **Modality:** - Visual (pay attention, seeing) - Intrapersonal (self-examination) **3. Create Interior Spaciousness (Personal)** - **Quote:** "Leave some room inside that clean heart, that spaciousness that has room to grow free from worries, stress, resentments, score keeping, and over responsibility." - **Type:** Personal spiritual health - **Connection:** Psalm 51's "clean heart" - **Justice Tie:** Can't serve neighbors while consumed by score-keeping and resentment - **Modality:** - Kinesthetic (spaciousness, room to grow) - Intrapersonal (interior work) **4. Engage in Congregational Discernment (Communal)** - **Quote:** "We're doing our part to listen, learn, and love, as well as welcome worship, witness and serve" (referring to strategic plan) - **Type:** Communal participation in church life - **Connection:** Samuel's communal role in Israel's leadership - **Generosity/Discipleship:** Six-fold call (listen, learn, love, welcome, worship, witness, serve) - **Modality:** - Interpersonal (communal activities) - Visual (seeing God's work in strategic plan) **5. Stand in Solidarity (Systemic)** - **Quote:** "We care deeply about our neighbors and we stand in solidarity with the vulnerable and marginalized." - **Type:** Systemic justice commitment - **Connection:** God's choice of marginal David - **Justice:** Explicit solidarity commitment - **Modality:** - Interpersonal (neighbor-care) - Physical/Kinesthetic (standing with) **6. Participate in Communal Learning (Communal)** - **Implicit:** References to Sunday night Acts study and Monday afternoon book study - **Type:** Communal formation through study - **Connection:** Biblical literacy needed to understand God's patterns - **Discipleship:** Ongoing formation - **Modality:** - Auditory (listening to discussions) - Interpersonal (group study) - Visual (reading texts) **7. Prayer and Sharing (Communal/Personal)** - **Quote:** "As we move into a time of prayer, a time of sharing our joys and our concerns..." - **Type:** Communal worship practice - **Connection:** Samuel's role as intercessor - **Modality:** - Auditory (speaking prayers) - Interpersonal (sharing together) - Intrapersonal (personal prayer) **Assessment:** **Multi-Level Integration:** - ✅ Personal (curiosity, clean heart, listening) - ✅ Communal (strategic plan, studies, worship) - ✅ Systemic (solidarity with marginalized) **Justice/Generosity/Discipleship Ties:** - ✅ Justice: Explicit solidarity statement - ✅ Generosity: "Care deeply about our neighbors" - ✅ Discipleship: Six-fold call (listen, learn, love, welcome, worship, witness, serve) **Multi-Modal Presentation:** - ✅ Spoken clearly throughout - ✅ Visual imagery (clean heart, solid rock, spaciousness) - ✅ Experiential (prayer time, study groups, strategic planning participation) - ✅ Physical (standing in solidarity) **Clarity and Actionability:** - Most calls are clear but require interpretation (what does "flipping scripts" look like practically?) - The strategic plan reference assumes congregational knowledge - The solidarity statement is aspirational - concrete steps not specified in this sermon **Scoring: 4/5** **Rationale:** Excellent range of calls spanning personal, communal, and systemic levels. Strong multi-modal presentation and clear ties to discipleship and justice. The calls are well-integrated with the biblical text. One point deducted because some calls (particularly "flip a few scripts" and "stand in solidarity") could benefit from more concrete next steps. However, the communal activities (studies, strategic plan) provide clear entry points for participation. --- ###### **🧠 Style Effectiveness Analysis** **Did the chosen preaching style(s) effectively communicate the text's intent and the sermon's purpose?** **✅ YES - Highly Effective** **Rationale:** 1. **Expository foundation** allows the 1 Samuel narrative to drive the sermon 2. **Conversational tone** makes ancient story accessible and relevant 3. **Topical threading** (discernment) creates coherence without abandoning text 4. **Integration** of congregational life makes application concrete rather than abstract **How would the message shift if delivered as:** ###### **A. Fully Expository Sermon (Verse-by-Verse)** **Potential Gains:** - **Deeper textual detail:** Could explore nuances like: - Hebrew word choices (נָבַל _nabal_ = fool in other contexts; רֵעַ _rea_ = friend/companion used for David) - Ancient Near Eastern anointing rituals - Literary structure of the passage (repetitive "not this one") - Saul's decline narrative from 1 Samuel 13-15 as context - **More cross-referencing:** Could trace David's story forward: - His later failures (Bathsheba, Uriah) - The irony that God chooses David despite his future moral failures - Messianic connections to Jesus as "son of David" - **Historical-critical depth:** - Dating and authorship of 1 Samuel - Deuteronomistic history framework - Tensions between pro-David and pro-Saul traditions **Potential Losses:** - **Accessibility:** Might lose some listeners in technical detail - **Congregational connection:** Strategic plan and study group references might feel disconnected - **Contemporary resonance:** Cultural bridge (Leonard Cohen) would be harder to integrate - **Flow:** Verse-by-verse could fragment the narrative's dramatic tension **Impact on Learning Styles:** - **Gains:** Visual learners (seeing text structure), analytical learners - **Losses:** Interpersonal connection, some kinesthetic/experiential elements --- ###### **B. Prophetic Sermon (Justice-Oriented)** **How it would shift:** **Opening:** Rather than Leonard Cohen, might open with: - Statistics on poverty/marginalization in the community - Story of someone overlooked by society (like David was by his family) - Contemporary parallel to Jesse's dismissal of David **Biblical Handling:** - **Emphasis on systemic critique:** - Israel's monarchy as problematic power structure - Samuel's fear of Saul as example of authoritarian power - Jesse's patriarchal dismissal of his youngest son - Class dynamics: shepherd vs. warrior sons - **God's counter-cultural politics:** - Divine preferential option for the marginalized (explicit theological term) - Shepherd imagery as economic/class marker - Bethlehem as insignificant place (Micah 5:2 connection) **Psalm 51 Interpretation:** - **Corporate rather than individual:** - "Clean heart" as communal purification from injustice - Bloodguilt (v. 14) tied to systemic violence - Restoration as communal/national, not just personal **Application:** - **Specific action steps:** - Name concrete marginalized groups in the community - Call for policy engagement or advocacy - Challenge wealth hoarding or exclusionary practices - Examine church's own practices of inclusion/exclusion - **Prophetic urgency:** - "Who are we overlooking?" - "Whose voices are missing from our leadership?" - "What systems are we complicit in?" **Potential Gains:** - **Sharper justice focus** with concrete systemic analysis - **More prophetic urgency** and call to action - **Explicit power analysis** of biblical text and contemporary context - **Clearer accountability** to marginalized communities **Potential Losses:** - **Personal spiritual formation** (clean heart, discernment) might be underdeveloped - **Pastoral tone** might feel less nurturing - **Congregational resistance** if justice call feels accusatory rather than invitational - **Some listeners** might dismiss as "too political" **Impact on Learning Styles:** - **Gains:** Interpersonal (social action), kinesthetic (justice work) - **Maintains:** Auditory, visual - **Potential loss:** Intrapersonal/contemplative space --- ###### **C. Inductive Sermon (Questions/Tension Leading to Conclusion)** **How it would shift:** **Opening:** Start with congregational tension/question rather than answer: - "Have you ever felt overlooked?" - "When has God surprised you by showing up in unexpected places?" - "What happens when our plans don't match God's plans?" **Structure:** - **No thesis statement** at beginning - **Build tension** through the narrative: - Samuel's fear and resistance - Each son rejected ("not this one, not this one") - David not even present at the gathering - **Questions throughout:** - "Why would God choose this way?" - "What is God trying to teach Samuel?" - "Where have we seen this pattern before?" - **Resolution** comes only at the end: - "God sees the heart - and invites us to see differently" - Application emerges as discovery rather than instruction **Psalm 51 Placement:** - Might save Psalm reading until **after** the narrative tension - "Clean heart" becomes the answer to "How do we prepare for God's surprises?" **Potential Gains:** - **Engagement through curiosity:** Listeners actively wondering alongside Samuel - **Discovery-based learning:** Application feels earned rather than imposed - **Emotional journey:** Experience of disorientation → resolution - **Memorable impact:** Research shows inductive sermons often have stronger retention **Potential Losses:** - **Some listeners need structure:** Anxiety without early clarity - **Patience required:** Those who "want the answer" might check out - **Risky:** If tension isn't resolved clearly, can leave confusion - **Application:** Might be less directive about concrete steps **Impact on Learning Styles:** - **Gains:** Intrapersonal (internal wrestling), kinesthetic (journey metaphor) - **Maintains:** Auditory, interpersonal - **Potential challenge:** Visual learners who need structure --- ###### **D. Contemplative/Mystagogical Sermon** **How it would shift:** **Opening:** Begin with **silence** and invitation to presence - "Let's take a moment to breathe and become present to God..." - Soft instrumental music or silence before reading **Scripture Reading:** - **Much slower pace** - **Lectio Divina approach:** Read passage multiple times - **Pauses** after key phrases: - "God sees the heart..." [silence] - "Create in me a clean heart..." [silence] **Reflection Style:** - **Less explanation, more invitation:** - "Notice where you feel drawn in this story..." - "What does 'clean heart' feel like in your body?" - "Sit with the image of David being called from the fields..." - **Guided meditation:** - Imagine being one of Jesse's sons, passed over - Imagine being Samuel, learning to see differently - Imagine being David, called from solitude to purpose **Sensory Elements:** - **Visual:** Invitation to close eyes, see the scene - **Tactile:** Perhaps holding stones (heart of stone → heart of flesh) - **Olfactory:** Anointing oil scent to connect to ritual - **Kinesthetic:** Standing, sitting, moving as prompted **Application:** - **Emerges from within** rather than prescribed: - "What is God stirring in you?" - "Where do you sense a call to openness?" - Extended silence for personal prayer **Potential Gains:** - **Deep interior encounter** with text and God - **Embodied spirituality** engaging all senses - **Space for Holy Spirit** to work individually - **Transcends intellectual approach** - heart knowledge - **Healing potential** for those carrying burdens **Potential Losses:** - **Less cognitive content** - educational component reduced - **Discomfort** for those unfamiliar with silence/meditation - **Congregational connection** to strategic plan harder to integrate - **Justice application** less directive (relies on Spirit's leading) - **Time:** Requires significant duration **Impact on Learning Styles:** - **Gains:** Intrapersonal (deep inner work), kinesthetic (embodied), sensory learners - **Maintains:** Auditory (readings), visual (imagery) - **Less effective:** Those who need interpersonal interaction or analytical processing --- ###### **E. First-Person Narrative/Homiletical Storytelling** **How it would shift:** **Entire sermon from Samuel's perspective:** _"I couldn't sleep that night after God spoke to me. 'Go to Jesse's house in Bethlehem,' God said. Just like that. As if King Saul wouldn't hear about it. As if he wouldn't see it as treason. As if my life wasn't on the line._ _I packed my horn with oil anyway. Old habits die hard - when God speaks, I listen. Even when I'd rather not._ _When I arrived in Bethlehem, you should have seen the elders' faces. 'Do you come in peace?' they asked, and I could hear what they weren't saying: 'What have we done to deserve a visit from the prophet?'..._" **OR from David's perspective:** _"I was with the sheep when they came for me. My brothers had been summoned to meet some important prophet - Samuel, they said his name was. But not me. I was too young, too insignificant. Somebody had to watch the flocks._ _I didn't mind, really. Out there under the stars, I felt closer to God than I ever did in my father's house. The sheep didn't care that I was the youngest. They just needed someone to protect them..._" **Potential Gains:** - **Immediate emotional connection** - experiencing the story from within - **Humanizes biblical characters** - Samuel's fear, David's loneliness - **Dramatic power** - first-person pulls listeners into narrative - **Memorable** - story stays with listeners longer than exposition - **Accessible** - no theological jargon needed **Potential Losses:** - **Exegetical depth** - harder to include historical context - **Direct application** - listeners must make the leap themselves - **Doctrinal teaching** - theological points less explicit - **Risk of eisegesis** - adding details not in text - **Contemporary connection** - strategic plan reference doesn't fit **Impact on Learning Styles:** - **Gains:** Auditory (storytelling), interpersonal (character connection), emotional learners - **Maintains:** Visual (imagining scenes) - **Losses:** Analytical learners may want more explanation --- ##### **📊 Learning Styles Served - Comparative Analysis** |Learning Style|Current (Expository/Conversational)|Fully Expository|Prophetic|Inductive|Contemplative|First-Person| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |**Auditory**|★★★★★|★★★★★|★★★★★|★★★★★|★★★★☆|★★★★★| |**Visual**|★★★★☆|★★★★★|★★★★☆|★★★☆☆|★★★★★|★★★★☆| |**Kinesthetic**|★★★☆☆|★★☆☆☆|★★★★★|★★★★☆|★★★★★|★★☆☆☆| |**Interpersonal**|★★★★★|★★★☆☆|★★★★★|★★★★☆|★★☆☆☆|★★★★☆| |**Intrapersonal**|★★★★☆|★★★☆☆|★★★☆☆|★★★★★|★★★★★|★★★★☆| |**Analytical**|★★★★☆|★★★★★|★★★★☆|★★★☆☆|★★☆☆☆|★★☆☆☆| |**Emotional**|★★★★☆|★★☆☆☆|★★★★★|★★★★☆|★★★★★|★★★★★| --- ##### **🎯 Which Style-Blend Would Strengthen This Sermon?** **Current Strengths:** - ✅ Already well-balanced for multiple learning styles - ✅ Strong congregational connection - ✅ Accessible yet theologically substantial - ✅ Personal + communal integration **Recommended Enhancement: Add Contemplative Elements** **Why:** 1. **Psalm 51's nature** calls for contemplative engagement 2. **"Clean heart" concept** could be experienced, not just explained 3. **Discernment theme** naturally fits meditative practice 4. **Creates space** for Holy Spirit to work individually within communal context **How to integrate (without losing current strengths):** **Option 1: Contemplative Interlude** - After explaining "clean heart is an open heart," pause for 60-90 seconds - Guided prompt: "Take a moment to notice what you're holding that prevents openness... now imagine releasing it to God..." - Returns to sermon flow after reflection **Option 2: Multi-Sensory Element** - Pass smooth stones during offering/prayer time - Invitation to hold stone as symbol of what needs transformation - Connects to "heart of stone → heart of flesh" (Ezekiel) **Option 3: Deeper Inductive Tension** - Before revealing "God sees the heart," ask: - "Turn to someone near you: When have you felt overlooked?" - 60 seconds of sharing - Heightens impact when resolution comes **Why these work:** - **Maintains:** Expository foundation, conversational accessibility, congregational connection - **Adds:** Embodied/experiential dimension, deeper intrapersonal engagement - **Serves:** Kinesthetic and contemplative learners without alienating others - **Enhances:** The "clean heart" and discernment themes already present --- ## **✅ Final Style Effectiveness Assessment** **The current style blend is highly effective because:** 1. **Text-Driven Foundation:** 1 Samuel 16 narrative clearly drives structure 2. **Accessibility:** Conversational tone invites rather than intimidates 3. **Contemporary Relevance:** Strategic plan and studies create immediate connection 4. **Multi-Level Application:** Personal, communal, systemic 5. **Balanced Tone:** Pastoral warmth + prophetic edge + teaching clarity **The sermon succeeds in:** - Making ancient text speak to contemporary congregation - Balancing individual spiritual formation with communal mission - Creating both comfort (God's faithful presence) and challenge (flip the scripts) - Engaging multiple learning styles effectively **Minor enhancement opportunity:** - Adding contemplative/experiential element would serve kinesthetic and deeply intrapersonal learners - Would strengthen the "clean heart" application - Could be integrated without disrupting current effectiveness **Scoring: 5/5** **Rationale:** The style is well-chosen, effectively executed, and serves the text, congregation, and purpose excellently. The blend of expository, topical, and conversational approaches creates both accessibility and depth. The sermon works for multiple learning styles while maintaining theological integrity and practical application. The minor suggestion for contemplative enhancement would move it from "excellent" to "exceptional," but it's already highly effective as delivered. --- ## 📊 **Total Scoring Summary** |Section|Score|Notes| |---|---|---| |Sermon Summary|5/5|Crystal clear message, well-integrated with texts| |Preaching Style|5/5|Excellent blend of expository, topical, conversational| |Storytelling & Illustration|5/5|Culturally diverse, age-inclusive, well-balanced| |Intonation & Delivery|5/5|Warm, inclusive, serves multiple learning styles| |Content Structure|5/5|Clear organization, smooth transitions, accessible| |Engagement & Application|5/5|Multi-level (personal/communal/systemic), inclusive, actionable| |Scripture Handling|5/5|Deep exegesis, strong context, justice-oriented| |Logical Reasoning|5/5|Sound deductive/inductive logic, no significant fallacies| |References|4/5|Good scholarly integration, could add more marginalized voices| |Quotes & Stories|5/5|Memorable, theologically rich, well-connected| |Calls to Action|4/5|Multi-level and clear, some could be more concrete| |Style Effectiveness|5/5|Well-chosen and executed, serves text and congregation| **Total Score: 58/60** **Percentage: 96.7%** --- ## 🎓 **Overall Assessment** ### **Exceptional Strengths:** 1. **Exegetical Integrity:** The sermon emerges organically from 1 Samuel 16 while making meaningful contemporary connections 2. **Inclusive Accessibility:** Successfully speaks to multiple generations, learning styles, and theological backgrounds 3. **Integrated Application:** Seamlessly moves between personal spiritual formation, communal discernment, and systemic justice 4. **Congregational Contextualization:** The references to strategic planning and study groups show a preacher who knows and serves their specific community 5. **Theological Depth with Pastoral Warmth:** Maintains academic rigor while remaining approachable and nurturing 6. **Justice Orientation:** Centers God's preferential option for the marginal without becoming preachy or accusatory ### **Minor Growth Edges:** 1. **Diverse Theological Voices:** While Diana Butler Bass is excellent, incorporating additional marginalized scholars (womanist, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, Global South) would strengthen the sermon's witness 2. **Concrete Action Steps:** Some calls to action (especially "flip scripts" and "stand in solidarity") could be more specific 3. **Contemplative Dimension:** Adding experiential/embodied elements would serve additional learning styles ### **This Sermon Excels At:** - ✅ Making biblical narrative relevant to contemporary congregation - ✅ Balancing comfort and challenge - ✅ Teaching while inspiring - ✅ Creating space for multiple entry points (cultural, biblical, personal, communal) - ✅ Modeling faithful biblical interpretation - ✅ Connecting personal transformation with social justice ### **Ideal Contexts for This Sermon:** - Progressive mainline Protestant congregations - Churches engaged in strategic planning or discernment processes - Communities with active small group/study culture - Congregations seeking to balance spiritual formation with justice work - Multigenerational churches needing accessible yet substantive preaching --- ##### 🌟 **Concluding Observations** This is a **masterfully crafted sermon** that demonstrates what effective biblical preaching looks like in a contemporary mainline context. The preacher shows: - **Deep love for scripture** that honors the text's integrity - **Pastoral sensitivity** to their specific congregation's journey - **Theological sophistication** presented accessibly - **Commitment to justice** without sacrificing pastoral care - **Excellent homiletical skills** across multiple dimensions **This sermon would serve as an excellent teaching model** for: - Seminary preaching courses - Pastor peer learning groups - Denominational preaching workshops - Study of how to connect ancient texts to contemporary life **The score of 96.7% reflects genuinely excellent preaching.** The minor deductions are not weaknesses but opportunities for enhancement in an already strong sermon. --- **Would you like me to:** 1. Develop any section of this analysis further? 2. Create a specific revision showing how to integrate one of the alternative styles? 3. Provide additional resources on any of the theological or homiletical themes? 4. Compare this to another sermon using this same template? #### Sermon Notes ##### Introduction ##### Main Points ###### Point 1: ###### Point 2: ###### Point 3: ##### Illustrations/Stories ##### Scripture Connections ##### Key Quotes #### Personal Reflections ##### What spoke to me: ##### Questions raised: ##### Challenges/Convictions: ##### Liturgical Context Reflections: How does today’s liturgical season/observance deepen my understanding of the message? #### Applications ##### This week I will: - [ ] - [ ] - [ ] ##### People to pray for: ##### Follow-up study: #### Connections *Links to other sermons, books, or notes* ### Sharing of Joys and Concerns ### Prayers of the People and The Lord’s Prayer (Debts) ### Invitation to Giving ### Offertory ### Offertory Response **Hymn #706** — “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” ### Prayer of Dedication *from Touch Holiness: Resources for Worship* **Holy One, whose heart abounds with gifts, receive this offering as sign of our intention to live surrounded by your mercy, inspired by your Spirit, open to the joy of your presence, hospitable to one another, and generous toward your world. Amen.** ### Hymn #285 - “God of Grace and God of Glory” *WORDS: Harry Emerson Fosdick, 1930* *MUSIC: John Hughes, 1907* *Tune: CWM RHONDDA 8.7.8.7.8.7* *Lower key, No. 33* **Verse 1** God of grace and God of glory, on Thy people pour Thy power; Crown Thine ancient church’s story, bring her bud to glorious flower. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, For the facing of this hour, for the facing of this hour. **Verse 2** Lo! the hosts of evil round us scorn Thy Christ, assail His ways! Fears and doubts too long have bound us, free our hearts to work and praise. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, For the living of these days, for the living of these days. **Verse 3** Save us from weak resignation to the evils we deplore; Let the search for Thy salvation be our glory evermore. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, Serving Thee whom we adore, serving Thee whom we adore. **Verse 4** Set our feet on lofty places; gird our lives that they may be Armored with all Christ-like graces, in the fight to set men free. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, That we fail not man nor Thee! That we fail not man nor Thee! ### Commission & Benediction ### Postlude (seated) *Join us a time of fellowship after worship!* ## Worship Leadership |Role |Name | |------------------|-------------------------------------| |Pastor |Rev. Caroline E. Saxton | |Organist |Barbara Motichka | |Deacon in Charge |Diana Kongkeattikul | |Lector |Henry Hopper | |Children’s Corner |Rebecca Pound | |Media Coordinators|Calvin Frantz, Neath Ham, Heidi Ramos| |Bulletin Cover |Edd Scheer | ## Special Recognitions ### Flowers at the Foot of the Cross The flowers at the foot of the cross are given in honor of the marriage of Alan Harold Young and Mahin Young, married at St. John’s on October 18, 2025. ### Birthdays This Week - October 20: Jonathan Miller - October 25: Roxanne Davenport - October 26: Lisa Fair ## Hymns ### Hymn #285 - “God of Grace and God of Glory” *WORDS: Harry Emerson Fosdick, 1930* *MUSIC: John Hughes, 1907* *Tune: CWM RHONDDA 8.7.8.7.8.7* *Lower key, No. 33* **Verse 1** God of grace and God of glory, on Thy people pour Thy power; Crown Thine ancient church’s story, bring her bud to glorious flower. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, For the facing of this hour, for the facing of this hour. **Verse 2** Lo! the hosts of evil round us scorn Thy Christ, assail His ways! Fears and doubts too long have bound us, free our hearts to work and praise. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, For the living of these days, for the living of these days. **Verse 3** Save us from weak resignation to the evils we deplore; Let the search for Thy salvation be our glory evermore. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, Serving Thee whom we adore, serving Thee whom we adore. **Verse 4** Set our feet on lofty places; gird our lives that they may be Armored with all Christ-like graces, in the fight to set men free. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, That we fail not man nor Thee! That we fail not man nor Thee! ## St. John’s Vision & Mission ### St. John’s Vision We are called to love, to learn, to worship and to witness in Christ as a congregation that welcomes everyone, and seeks service that will advance God’s realm on earth. ### St. John’s Mission To grow in love of God and neighbor ## Worship Resources *Call to Worship* by Rev. Christine Sobania Johnson, posted on Freshly Squeezed Liturgy *Prayer of the Day* by Thom Shuman, posted on Lectionary Liturgies (adapted) *Prayer for Illumination* from Feasting on the Word Worship Companion *“Desire” (a remix of Psalm 20)* by Beth A. Richardson, included in *The Words of Her Mouth: Psalms for the Struggle*, edited by Martha Spong *Prayer of Dedication* from Touch Holiness: Resources for Worship, edited by Ruth C. Duck and Maren C. Tirabassi ## News & Announcements ### This Week at St. John’s #### Today - Sunday, October 19 **Pastor Appreciation Day!** - 1:30 pm - CROP Hunger Walk – Meet at First United Methodist Church (walk starts at 2 pm) - Bible Study on the Book of Acts, 8 pm, Zoom (link in Friday e-blast) #### Monday, October 20 **Fellowship Hall and Room 116 are reserved all week prepping for book sale** - 10:00 am - Chi Gong/Zazen silent body energy and soulful meditation – Parlor Room 104 - 1:30 pm - Monday Afternoon Book Study – Conference Room 111 - 6:30 pm - Bible and a Beer – Trojans Diner - 7:00 pm - Boy Scouts COH– Sanctuary #### Tuesday, October 21 - 10:00 am - Parking lot/Paving project meeting – Conference Room 111 - 6:00 pm - Ladies’ Bible - Zoom - 6:30 pm - Cub Scouts – Outside/then break into smaller groups #### Wednesday, October 22 - 6:30 pm - Council Meeting – Conference Room 111 #### Thursday, October 23 - 6:15 pm - Girl Scouts – Room 201 - 7:15 pm - Choir Rehearsal – Choir Room 103 #### Friday, October 24 - 1:50 pm - Ribbon Cutting for Habitat for Humanity Used Book Sale – LOT B - 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Used Book Sale – Fellowship Hall #### Saturday, October 25 - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm - Used Book Sale – Fellowship Hall #### Sunday, October 26 - 8:45 am - Godly Play Class – Room 119 - 8:45 am - SPARK! Elementary Church School Class – Room 115 - 8:45 am - Teen Discussion Class – Room 206 - 8:45 am - Wired Word Church School Class – Room 116 - 10:00 am - Sunday Worship – Sanctuary - 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm - Used Book Sale $5 bags – Fellowship Hall ### Upcoming Events & Opportunities #### Mercersburg Association Fall Meeting Will be Sunday, November 2, 3 pm at First UCC in Carlisle. This will be a hybrid meeting. Contact Pastor Caroline if you would like to be a delegate. #### October First Fruits Go to support Sweet Grace Ministries. October is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and aims to raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of pregnancy and infant loss, provide support to grieving families, and promote education and resources. Sweet Grace offers help and support to these families in the form of baskets, comfort bags, photography, support groups, remembrance events, mentoring couples, and more. Thank you for your support of this ministry. #### No Tricks Just Treats Will be held October 31, 6-8 pm at St. John’s in the labyrinth area. We are now accepting candy donations. If you would like to donate, please drop all candy donations off at the church office. If you would like to help with the event, please contact Susan Collier. Thank you for your support! #### Talk on Penn Mar Park Join Mike Marotte on Thursday, November 13, 6 pm in Fellowship Hall for a presentation on the historic Penn Mar Park. #### September/October Upper Room Devotionals are currently available at the Welcome Center. We suggest a donation of $1 for small print/$2 for large print copies. If you would like to have a copy mailed to you, please contact the church office. #### Holy Manners Copies of our draft Behavioral Covenant or “Holy Manners for St. John’s United Church of Christ” are available in the Narthex or by request from the Church Office. #### Bible and a Beer Is an opportunity to talk about our faith in public. Join us on the 3rd Monday of the month at the Trojan Diner at 6:30 pm. Our next gathering will be October 20. #### Birthday Balloons All are invited to share in a special coffee hour the last Sunday of the month to honor all who celebrated a birthday that month. October birthdays will be honored on **Sunday, October 26**. We hope you’ll join us! #### Monday Afternoon Book Study Meets at 1:30 pm in the Conference Room. We are currently reading “A People’s History of Christianity: The Other Side of the Story” by Diana Butler Bass. We’ll read Chapter 5 for our session on 10/20. #### Sunday Night Bible Study Join Pastor Caroline on Sunday evenings at **8 pm via Zoom** for a Bible study on the book of Acts. Our session on **October 19** will focus on Acts Chapter 17. Zoom Meeting ID: 836 0593 5961 Passcode: 277938 A hyperlink for this opportunity is included in the weekly e-blast. We encourage you to read from a variety of translations. #### Join us for Life Talk What’s on your mind? Something that concerns or worries you? Do you need to vent? Just want to talk with other adults for a bit? Don’t want to share in front of the entire congregation? Or you don’t think it really needs to be a prayer request? Grab your snack and coffee, and meet in the parlor after services on Sunday mornings. Everyone is welcome. #### Want to Stay in Touch? Contact the Church Office to be added to our email list! You can sign up to receive our regular weekly emails, Diana’s Devotionals, and/or be part of the Prayer Chain. ### Nursery Information The “Nursery Nook in the Narthex” quiet area and infant/toddler space in the Parlor are available for children and families to use during worship. Age-appropriate activity bags are also available. ## Contact Information **The Rev. Caroline E. Saxton**, Pastor Email: [email protected] Phone: (641) 260-1868 (cell) **Tonya Schwartz**, Office Administrator Email: [email protected] Phone: (717) 263-8593 (office) **Gary Crum**, Music Director **Barbara Motichka**, Organist **Roxanne Davenport**, Director of Children & Youth **The Rev. Stephen W. Hoffman**, Pastor Emeritus ## Notes & Reflections ### Overall Worship Experience ### Music & Hymns ### Fellowship & Community ### Questions for Further Study ### Action Items - [ ] - [ ] - [ ] -----