“Called to Love” – April 13th, 2025

Rev. Sophia preaching, with Laura Horn, Kevin Burchby, the Hand in Hand Singers, Charlyn Bethell and Guy Urban.

The Palm Sunday story really is a Call to Love story. Let’s consider how this ancient, holy procession is still teaching us about joy, courage, hope and love amid overwhelming odds. We will also be blessed by the special music of the Hand in Hand Singers, and Kevin Burchby will offer us his Journey of Faith. Slow down and come to church–there is so much love and joy to draw from here! Please note that our Annual Meeting will take place following worship.

Reading: “Beginning with Beloved: A Blessing” by Jan Richardson

Begin here:

Beloved.

Is there any other word
needs saying,
any other blessing
could compare
with this name,
this knowing?

Beloved.

Comes like a mercy
to the ear that has never
heard it.
Comes like a river
to the body that has never
seen such grace.

Beloved.

Comes holy
to the heart
aching to be new.
Comes healing
to the soul
wanting to begin
again.

Beloved.

Keep saying it
and though it may
sound strange at first,
watch how it becomes
part of you,
how it becomes you,
as if you never
could have known yourself
anything else,
as if you could ever
have been other
than this:

Beloved.