Here’s what’s happening in worship this week. Click the “more” link for our Church School programming.
This week, ELPC will receive the 2016 Christmas Joy Offering, celebrating the coming of Jesus Christ, the “wondrous gift” of God with us. Sine the 1930s, the PC(USA) as provided the opportunity for congregations to join this celebration of God’s wondrous gift by supporting those in need of help and hope through the Christmas Joy Offering. Read more
Worship Services
Journey Worship | Sunday, at 8:45 am
An interactive, energetic service for those seeking a fresh encounter with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our theme this month is Emerging. Pastor Randy will preach from Luke 2:25–38.
Sanctuary Worship | Sunday, at 11 am
Our largest service, with music from the Chancel Choir and an organ prelude prior to the service. Pastor Randy will preach from Mark 3:31–35 and his sermon will be titled, “What Family Said About Jesus.”
Taizé Prayer Service | Wednesday, at 7 pm
Our hour-long service includes sung prayers; simple, beautiful music; a time of silence; spoken and silent prayers; and an opportunity for individual prayer and anointing. The Rev. Mary Lynn Callahan will lead this service of sung Taizé prayer. Stay afterward for Contemplative Prayer. If you’re unable to participate in person, join our live stream on your computer or mobile device.
Christian Education Classes
We offer Christian Education classes for persons of all ages, from infancy through adulthood, on Sundays from 9:45–10:45 am. Click the links for adult class descriptions and children and youth offerings.
Contemporaries | Second Floor Parlor
The Stranger and Hospitality: The Parables of the Wedding Feast
Mary Alice Lightle will lead our discussion of the joy and judgement in these parables recorded in Matthew and Luke.
Journey With Scripture | Second Floor Library
To all God’s beloved in Rome, who are called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ—Romans 1:7. The apostle Paul proclaims God’s assurance and encouragement to the Christian community living in an empire. Like other Advent readings, God calls us to justice—to recognize and receive Christ in the world. Join us as we reflect on these readings:
This week, our readings are Isaiah 7:10–16; Psalm 80:1–7, 17–19; Romans 1:1–7; and Matthew 1:18–25. Our class will be facilitated by Jan Irvin and Lora Bethea.
Seekers | Room 234
Gifts of the Season
Class members and invited guests will share their talents, thoughts, and family customs that commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy music, poems, readings, and personal reflections that hopefully will enrich your own holiday.
Soul Food | Third Floor Music Room
This week, we will conclude our discussion on chapter six of The Gift of Being Yourself, led by Joe Hajdu, Michele Bossers, and Sel Whitaker.
Young Adults | Pastor’s Conference Music Room
A Christmas Event
Celebrate the season with breakfast, scripture, and friends.