Messages from Douglas UCC

How does one become saved? Jesus speaks of salvation, but the idea of ‘being saved’ has been misunderstood. Pastor Sal discusses the history of this concept, sharing wisdom from Thomas Merton, Carlton Pearson, and Richard Rohr.

In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Jesus says that those who humble themselves will be exalted. Christians are called to be righteous, yet many come across as self-righteous. Pastor Sal explores what it means to live a life of humble-heartedness.

Jesus gave us the instructions for how to pray, but many Christians today are praying ineffectively.  Pastor Sal gives an inspiring Progressive Christian message on ‘The Science of Prayer.’

In today’s Gospel, Jesus ministers to ten people, but only one comes back to thank him. Gratitude is a powerful spiritual tool with life-changing effects. Pastor Sal talks about how to cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

Jesus said the presence and power of God are within us, but most people don’t believe it. On World Communion Sunday, Pastor Sal talks about moving mountains with a mustard seed of faith. He shares wisdom from Eric Butterworth and Marianne Williamson.

‘We will recover our sense of the Sacred only if we appreciate the Universe,’ wrote Christian theologian, Thomas Berry. Pastor Sal shares wisdom from Carl Sagan, Matthew Fox, and Neil deGrasse Tyson.

Dr. Debra Rienstra talks about her book, Refugia Faith: Seeking Hidden Shelters, Ordinary Wonders, and the Healing of the Earth. Refugia (reh-FU-jee-ah) is a biological term for places of shelter where life endures in times of crisis. Dr. Rienstra applies this to human culture and faith. In this era of ecological devastation, how can Christians become people of refugia?

Job 12:7 says: “Ask the animals, and they shall teach you.” Rev. Salvatore Sapienza gives an inspiring Progressive Christian message on how animals can be our spiritual teachers.

Jesus told us to take the lowest place at the table and to invite the poor to our parties rather than friends and relatives. Pastor Sal explores what it means to love unconditionally – to give without expecting something in return, just as God does.

Jesus heals a woman who has been bent over for years. With the power of his touch, she is ‘loosed’. Many of us feel burdens. Pastor Sal talks about how we can be lifted up by getting in touch with the power of the Christ inside of us