Sermons

“Community Matters: Conflict Resolution”

September 10, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Matthew 18:15–20

"For where two or three are gathered..." This is the promise Jesus gave us--when we gather in Christ's name, he is present among us. Simple, right? Yet, oftentimes, when we gather we bring our diverse thoughts and different backgrounds. Conflicts can quickly arise. What does Jesus tell us to do when we experience conflict in the community? Join us for worship as we explore the challenge Jesus gives us in Matthew 18:15-20. 

"Life in the Spirit: Love"

July 30, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Psalm 128, Romans 8:26–39

As we wrap up our series in Romans 8, Paul reminds us that the Spirit not only helps us in our weakness and gives us words to pray, but also reassures us of the power of the love God has for us. 

"Life in the Spirit: Hope For All Creation"

July 23, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Romans 8:12–25

As followers of Jesus, we are in the Spirit because the Spirit of God dwells in us (Romans 8:9). But what does that really mean for our lives? We who are in Christ Jesus are no longer condemned, but even though we are called children of God, adopted by the Spirit, we do still suffer. But, we are not the only ones who suffer, the whole creation is groaning as we wait for redemption. Join us, as we worship with one another and with God's creation as we search for hope in Romans 8:12-25

"Life in the Spirit: Freedom & Peace"

July 16, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Romans 8:1–11

As followers of Jesus, we are in the Spirit because the Spirit of God dwells in us (Romans 8:9). But what does that really mean for our lives? For the next three weeks, we will be digging into Romans 8 to discover what life in the Spirit looks like. Paul's theology in Romans is often so complicated and challenging that we never fully understand it, so let us spend some time sitting with it and allowing Paul's words to speak to our souls. This week, in Romans 8:1-11, we will discover the freedom and peace we receive when we find our dwelling place in the Spirit.

“Come, Bring Your Burdens to God”

July 9, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Matthew 11:16–19, Matthew 11:25–30

A few weeks ago I attended Montreat’s Worship & Music conference. We began by singing “Come, Bring Your Burdens to God'' and as these words echoed through the auditorium, they spoke to my soul. Who is feeling tired--truly weary, right now? In Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Jesus issues an invitation we often find challenging—bring your troubles and worries to him and he will ease your stress. What burdens are you carrying? What are you willing to give up to God so you may find the promised relief? And what yoke is Jesus calling us all to take on so that we may learn from him?

"Extravagantly Humble Hospitality"

June 25, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Genesis 18:1–15

When have you offered extravagant hospitality or experienced it? In Genesis 18:1-15, Abraham offers a feast that Sarah prepares for three strangers they meet at the Oaks of Mamre. These strangers have an important message about the fulfillment of the promise God made to Abram—it's a message Sarah finds nearly impossible to believe.

“Commissioned"

June 4, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Matthew 28:16–20

In Matthew 28:16-20, the Risen Jesus gives some final instructions to the eleven remaining disciples. They are to go and make disciples, baptize, and teach all that Jesus has commanded. We who call ourselves disciples today are a result of their ministry, and we too receive the same commission from Jesus. But Jesus also gives a promise before he leaves, as well. What is that promise and how does it help us live into all that Jesus is commissioning us to do?

“The Outpouring of the Spirit"

May 28, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • Acts 2:1–21

Wind, flame, prophetic visions, sudden fluency in all world languages--what do these things have in common? Come find out as we explore the first Pentecost recorded in Acts 2:1-21. The Spirit turned the world upside down on that day and continues to act in our current lives. How is the Spirit moving in your life, our congregation, and the world, and what are we going to do about it?

“The Epidemic of Loneliness and the Spirit of Love"

May 14, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • John 14:15–21

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the United States surgeon general, has declared that as a country we are experiencing an epidemic of loneliness. This is a surprise to no one because we are all feeling it, and yet, we have a hard time connecting with others in our over-connected world. This, in turn, makes us feel even more lonely and alone. When Jesus gathered around the table at the Last Supper with the disciples, he shared with them what they needed to do when they felt alone. And it wasn't a suggestion, it was a command: love one another. Love one another, and I will send the Advocate to be with you--always. Join us as we explore the guidance of Jesus in John 14:15-21.

"The Cornerstone and Living Stones"

May 7, 2023 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington • 1 Peter 2:2–10

We read throughout Scripture that Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith and of our lives. In 1 Peter 2:2-10, we are challenged to let ourselves be living stones built into a spiritual house. How do stones live, and what does it mean for us to be living stones, built on Jesus as our cornerstone in God's house together?