New Hope PCUSA

2/9/25 Worship at New Hope

This week Pastor Caressa concludes our series; Courageous Conversations on Faith and Racism with the challenge to have the courage to see, speak, and seek, we can begin the journey of unlearning harmful prejudices and fostering genuine relationships across racial lines. As we reflect on this teaching, let's ask ourselves: How can we, like Jesus, engage in heart-to-heart conversations that bridge divides and reveal our shared humanity?

Preaching from Mark 7:24-30, Pastor Caressa unpacks the powerful exchange between Jesus and the Syrophoenician woman, a conversation that challenges assumptions, expands understanding, and demonstrates the transformative power of persistence and truth-telling. How does this passage call us to confront racial injustice and speak up with boldness? Tune in as we explore what it means to have the courage to engage in difficult but necessary conversations that reflect the heart of Christ.

Pastor Caressa continues the 'Courageous Conversations on Faith and Racism' series with a sermon titled 'The Courage to See,' inspired by Mark 8:22-25. In this powerful message, we reflect on the story of Jesus healing the blind man, challenging us to consider the ways we might be spiritually blind to the realities of racism and injustice around us. With courage, humility, and faith, we are called to allow Jesus to open our eyes, see the world as it truly is, and step into the work of reconciliation and justice.

Join Rev. Caressa Murray for a thought-provoking sermon in our 'Courageous Conversations on Faith and Racism' series. Drawing from Matthew 25:31-46, explore what it means to truly become a Matthew 25 church—embracing justice, compassion, and action as we confront issues of faith and racism in our community and beyond.

Join Pastor Jordan as he unpacks Matthew 3:1–17, the story of Jesus’ baptism. In this sermon, learn how baptism invites us to turn inward in repentance, resist the urge to judge others, and follow Jesus’ humble example in our daily lives.

This week, we explore the Magi’s journey to Bethlehem—an act of wonder and faith—and contrast it with King Herod’s fearful grip on power. Using a flashlight as our guiding image, we see how the Magi followed the star with curiosity and courage, while Herod clung to control, threatened by the unknown. Join us as we reflect on moments in our own lives when we must choose between fear and wonder, and discover how embracing God’s light, even if it only illuminates the next step, can lead us into deeper hope and joy.