It seems like every time we read or watch the news that another person of color has been shot in America, another policeman has been attacked, someone has targeted a minority group with violence… How should we respond as Christians to a society filled with enormous anger, polarization, and indifference? In this sermon, Father John takes a page from the early Christian communities which were experiencing ethnic and racial tension – and applied their wisdom to our situation today. We can bring the Spirit of Christ into the storm and chaos of today’s world, and work for peace, hope, and […]

This Sunday we go deeper into what it means to a “be a neighbor” as a follower of Jesus. Father John examines three instances where Jesus demonstrates how to practically love those who are lonely – through the gift of touch, listening to understand, and through the giving of our time. Who is God laying on your heart to reach out and embrace with a loving hug, some probing and caring questions, or just to spend some time together letting them know how much you care?

Our world seems to be unraveling when it comes to racism, Islamophobia, and plain civility amongst those who are our political opponents. In this kind of situation, it can be easy to categorize others as people towards whom we do not need to be nice. But Jesus does not allow his followers to behave like that. In this sermon, Father John explores what is wrong with the question: “Who is my neighbor?” and how Jesus reframes the entire concept of what it means to be a neighbor through empathy, drawing close to others, and acting on their behalf.

Have you ever had to change your image of God? Sometimes we need to do just that, especially when the image we have of God is one of a stern, cosmic judge. Who wants to pray to and draw close to a God who is perpetually angry? This Sunday, Father John asks questions regarding God’s primary feelings towards us humans – and explores the notion found in Zephaniah 3:14 that God exults over us with singing.

Today we take a moment to reflect on our past year’s work as a parish, and where it feels God is calling us forward in the year to come. Listen as we give thanks for all that has been accomplished in this momentous year, and as we consider new directions God is leading us!

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul makes the statement, “Every time I remember you I give thanks to God.” Really, Paul? Did you experience nothing negative in that congregation? Most of us have had experiences in church that challenge how we look at others around us. But Paul’s thinking was guided by God’s love – and he chose to express grace even in his thinking towards others despite their flaws. In this sermon, Father John explores how we consider and talk about one another – and whether it meets the criteria Paul sets forth in this wonderful letter.

Special thanks to John Clodfelter for sharing his music gift with the parish on June 5, 2016. He is continuing graduate studies in music at the University of North Dakota.