What is the Bible? As our church begins reading scripture together, this sermon invites us to slow down and ask a foundational question that shapes everything else. Drawing from 2 Timothy 3:14–17, Pastor Angelo explores what it means to call the Bible “God-breathed,” why scripture exists, and how we are invited to read it—not just for information, but for formation and transformation. Whether you’re just beginning the reading plan or finding your rhythm, this message offers a thoughtful and hopeful starting point for the journey.

A new year, a new season, and a shared journey begins. In this opening episode of Companions, Pastors Angelo and Becca introduce a refreshed podcast and invite listeners into a year-long practice of reading the Bible together using One Story That Leads to Jesus. With an encouraging and grace-filled tone, they talk about how long-form Scripture reading is different from close study, how to stay grounded when life gets busy, and why perfection isn’t the goal—faithful presence is. Reflecting on Genesis 1–3 and Psalm 1, this conversation sets the foundation for a year of intention, rooting ourselves in God’s story so it can shape us, sustain us, and bear fruit in our lives. Whether you’re brand new to Bible reading or returning with fresh eyes, this episode offers a hopeful beginning and an open invitation to walk the journey together.

In this sermon, Pastor Becca teaches on the story of Simeon and Anna, and reminds us that Christmas is not something reserved for just one day (or 12 days) of the calendar year!

A special BONUS Christmas Episode! Today, we are talking about our favorite sermons and series from this past year, the words and themes that have held it all together, and previewing 2026! Listen now

In a world captivated by hero stories and larger-than-life solutions, Christmas offers a surprising kind of good news. In this Christmas Eve message from Luke 2:1–20, Pastor Angelo reflects on our longing for rescue and the unexpected way God responds—not with spectacle or power, but with presence. The birth of Jesus reveals a Savior who meets us in the ordinary rhythms of life and brings peace not by force, but by nearness. Wherever you find yourself this season—hopeful, weary, or somewhere in between—this message invites you to rediscover the embodied promise of God with us.

In this Advent message, Pastor Angelo explores merciful love through the story of the birth of John the Baptist in Luke 1:57–80. Drawing from Zechariah’s prophetic song, this sermon reflects on a God whose mercy moves toward us before we are ready—bringing forgiveness, light, and peace into the ordinary and often difficult places of our lives. As we prepare for the coming of Christ, we’re invited not only to receive God’s tender mercy, but to live in ways that prepare the way for that mercy to be seen and felt by others.

What happens when joy shows up where we least expect it—right in the middle of waiting, grief, or uncertainty? In this episode of Companions, Pastors Angelo and Becca reflect on the kind of joy that doesn’t ignore pain but meets us within it. Drawing from scripture, lived experience, and the realities of the Advent season, this conversation explores how joy can surprise us, sustain us, and gently reorient our hearts toward hope. If you’ve ever wondered whether joy is still possible when life feels heavy, this episode is for you. Listen in and join the journey.

Unexpected Joy (Isaiah 61:1–4, 8–11) explores how long seasons of waiting can wear us down and make joy feel out of reach. In this sermon, Pastor Angelo reflects on Isaiah’s vision of restoration, the Year of Jubilee in Leviticus 25, and Jesus’ declaration in Luke 4 that this promise is being fulfilled. Speaking to people living among ruins, Isaiah offers a hope rooted in God’s initiative—not our effort—where ashes are transformed into beauty and mourning gives way to praise. This message invites us to rediscover unexpected joy, the kind that emerges not when everything is fixed, but when God shows up and begins restoring what has been broken. Listen to this week’s Sunday Sermon and be reminded that even after long seasons of waiting, joy is still on the way.

In this week’s episode, Pastors Angelo and Becca sit down with Rev. Julia Hayes to talk Advent peace, John the Baptist’s challenging call to prepare, and how real repentance makes room for joy. We also look ahead to Sunday’s theme of Unexpected Joy and the promise of Jubilee. Tune in and journey with us.

In this week’s message, Rev. Julia Hayes leads us deeper into Advent with a powerful word on Prophetic Peace from Matthew 3:1–12. John the Baptist calls us to prepare the way—and Julia helps us hear that call with fresh ears. What does real peace require of us? And how might God be inviting us to clear space in our hearts for Christ this season? Listen in as we journey toward the hope, peace, joy, and love of Christ together.

If you're interested in learning more about Pastor Julia's work in Leland, she would love to hear from you! You can email her directly by clicking the link included with this episode.