Scripture: Matthew 3:13-17
Message: My Beloved
Blessings of grace and hope to you all!
This Sunday I’m looking forward to being in the pulpit again and especially excited to be preaching on Jesus’ baptism. What is a more beautiful image of God’s grace than the sanctifying of God, God’s self?! And what’s better yet, the Great Divine expressing clearly exactly how beloved this inspired human being is. There’s so much confusion in this short story… John the Baptizer refusing to accept that he is worthy to have any authority over this man; Jesus insisting he still do so; a nod to their first in vitro meeting when Mary and Elizabeth met decades prior; and finally a divine affirmation that it is exactly as it ought to be.
Join me on Sunday to dive deep into these beautiful words of humility and power, grace and hope!
See you then!
Peace,
Cheryl
Dates to Remember:
- January 18th 11:30 – ACC annual meeting. If you are a member of UPA under the UCC denomination please attend this meeting!
- January 25th 10:00 – Rev. Moo, Superintendent of Commonwealth East, UMC will be our guest preacher!
- January 25th 11:30 – CUMC annual meeting. If you are a member of UPA under the UMC denomination please attend this meeting!
- February 1st 11:30 – Budget Forum. This is the presentation of the UPA’s 2026 budget. We have this meeting so there are no surprises at UPA annual meeting the following Sunday. Use this meeting to hear about budget allocations, ask your questions, and understand how and to what your donations/pledges are being used.
- February 8th 11:30 – UPA ANNUAL MEETING! If you are a member of the UPA (or even if you’re not!) please attend this celebration of the work of our amazing church, it’s past and hope for our future!
Music:
Prelude: “Beginnings” Brian Wren
Anthem: “My Jesus hath a Garden” trad. Dutch tune
Meditation: “Blessed Quietness” William Marshall
Postlude: “Bring Forth” Marty Haugen