March 22, 2026 – Fourth Sunday of Lent – “Seeking: Asking Better Questions”
Overview
The service was centered around the comforting imagery of God as our Good Shepherd and the light of Christ guiding us through our blind spots. It was a morning filled with reflection, community, and celebration.
Here is a look back at the highlights of our time together:
A Nod to Our History: Jean Maes shared a fascinating Sesquicentennial Story, reminding us of our rich church heritage and the foundation we continue to build upon.
Joyful Music: We were blessed by gorgeous musical offerings throughout the morning. Joe Bruette delivered a powerful trombone performance of Tschaikowsky’s Concerto in B Minor, and our voices joined together in beloved hymns like “Open My Eyes, That I May See” and “Amazing Grace.”
Honoring a Servant Heart: A major highlight of the service was the presentation of the 2026 Augusta Jeffrey Award. We joyfully celebrated Kristine Melton for her outstanding volunteer efforts. It was a wonderful moment to honor her dedication and servant’s heart!
Engaging Our Youth: Joel Morien led a wonderful and thoughtful Time with the Children, bringing the morning’s message to life for our youngest members.
An Inspiring Message: Pastor Katie Estes delivered an insightful sermon titled “Seeking: Asking Better Questions.” Drawing on the timeless wisdom of Psalm 23 and the story of the man born blind in John 9, she challenged us to let go of narrow judgments, recognize our own blind spots, and view others through the welcoming light of God’s love.
We left the sanctuary reminded that while we may all be different, we are all welcomed and transformed by God’s grace.
March 8, 2026 – Third Sunday of Lent – “Seeking: What Are You Thirsty For?”
Overview
Our congregation gathered for the Third Sunday in Lent to deeply explore the refreshing, life-giving theme of “living water.” The service opened with joyful hymns like “Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken” and a responsive Call to Worship, leading into a meaningful Time with the Children led by Joel Morien.
Through scripture readings from Exodus and John, we were reminded of God’s abundant grace in desert places, a message Pastor Katie Estes beautifully expanded upon in her sermon, “Seeking: What Are You Thirsty For?”
United in worship, we confessed our human tendency to chase worldly distractions, affirmed our beliefs through the Apostle’s Creed, and ultimately departed with a powerful charge to go out into the world as joyful “water carriers,” equipped to share the good news and peace of Christ with our neighbors.
March 1, 2026 – Second Sunday of Lent – “Seeking: Can We Begin Again?”
Overview
The congregation gathered on March 1, 2026, for a reflective Second Sunday in Lent service centered on the theme of “Seeking.” The morning was marked by a moving liturgy that balanced the courageous faith of Abraham and Sarah with the honest questions of Nicodemus, highlighted by Pastor Katie Estes’ sermon, “Seeking: Can We Begin Again?”
Worshipers were uplifted by the choral anthem “Celtic Laud” and a special “Time with the Children” before gathering at the Lord’s Table for Communion. The service concluded with the powerful strains of “Lift High the Cross,” sending the community into the wilderness of Lent nourished by “bread for the journey” and the assurance of God’s refuge and strength.