Claremont United Church of Christ

In our last installment of our "Holy Friendships" sermon series, Pastor Jacob explores the deep connection between David and Jonathan, a relationship so intimate that some scholars have suggested it goes beyond platonic friendship. Regardless of the nature of their relationship, how might we fight a connection as strong as the one these two men shared? Is it possible that in some ways, the church itself, and even God, might be the kind of unwavering, unconditional friend that we seek?

Welcome home! Regardless of your age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, abilities, or faith background, we are glad you’re worshiping with us today. You belong here.

In Acts 9, Barnabas vouches for a recently converted Paul, seeing the potential in him to become a better person. But by Acts 15, the friendship breaks down when Barnabas feels like Paul isn't acting in accordance with the Gospel he is preaching. Pastor Jacob explores the friendship between Paul and Barnabas, and weaves in the events of this week, to proclaim that Holy Friends keep us accountable to better live out the love of Christ.

In a world with a notable loneliness epidemic, holy friendships are as critical to our health as a good diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. What does it look like to intentionally cultivate and nurture the type of genuine relationships that help us reframe our past, hold space for our present, and give birth to a brighter future? This series uses Biblical examples of holy friendships to consider why these relationships are transformational and how we can seek them out in our own lives.

SUNDAY'S GUEST PASTOR

Rev. Gabriel Lopez

Co-Pastor of Iglesia Cristiana del Este de Whittier

Gabriel is an immigrant from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. He was brought to the U.S. at the age of 7. His parents planted a church in Huntington Park, California in the early 90's and the church is now in East Whittier, Ca. His experience as an immigrant and as a pastor's kid has shaped his passion for ministry for the Latino/x/e context (immigrant, first- and second-generation Latino church). These experiences have made him a Puente-- a bridge -- between multiple generations and as someone who thirsts and hungers for justice for the most vulnerable.

Gabriel is a graduate of the Claremont School of Theology, M.DIV, and is an ordained minister with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

He is married to Rev. Siobhan Lopez and they have a 7-year-old daughter, Metztli. He is a fan of Star Wars, sneakers, Rock en Español, and is a gamer.

As our "A is for..." summer sermon series winds down, Pastor Jacob explores what is known as the Tetragrammaton, or the four letters that make up the Divine name that God uses when talking to Moses in Exodus. What does it mean when God says, "I Am Who I Am?"

Welcome home! Regardless of your age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, abilities, or faith background, we are glad you’re worshiping with us today. You belong here.

We often refer to God as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the 3 main patriarchs from the Book of Genesis, but in each of their stories, their spouses take center stage as well. So, perhaps it could be the God of Sarah, Rebekah, and Rachel. In this installment of our sermon series, it's R is for Rebekah as we take a look at a part of Rebekahs' story where she boldly steps into the unknown of her future trusting God to be with her along the way.

Welcome home! Regardless of your age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, abilities, or faith background, we are glad you’re worshiping with us today.

You belong here.

The Nicene Creed in some form represents the beliefs of 98.5% of global Christians, including all 3 major branches of Protestants, Catholics, and Eastern Orthodox. But the creed has not been without controversy throughout history, including causing the Great Schism of 1054 that split the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. Buckle up for a ride through church history and theology as Pastor Jacob concludes that getting our doctrine perfect should never be the litmus test for whether we are being faithful followers of Jesus.