While we all acknowledge there is much to do as we “grow in grace and knowledge”, it is good to note that Christianity has made significant contributions to matters of race and equality By Marty Davey, GCI Pastor, Jacksonville, FL and Woodbine, GA. We can probably all come up with examples of Christians or Christian … Continue reading "Churches Make a Difference" Read the article
As we end Ordinary Time and prepare ourselves for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany, it’s good to reflect on the source of our hope—Jesus. By Robert Regazzoli, GCI pastor in Australia In the story of Les Miserables, Jean Valjean, upon release from prison, is invited into the residence of a bishop, and given a meal and … Continue reading "Grace and Hope" Read the article
We often talk of sharing the life and love of Jesus, but we are also called to share that he is the light of the world. The three seasons (cycles) of the GCI Worship Calendar help us focus on his light, his life and his love. History was not my favorite subject in high school. … Continue reading "His Light, His Life, His Love" Read the article
Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17 • Deuteronomy 34:1-12 • 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 • Matthew 22:34-46 This week’s theme is shared ministry. In Deuteronomy we witness Moses passing the baton of leadership to Joshua accompanied by a call to worship Psalm that reflects on life’s transience while calling on God’s compassion to the faithful. The New Testament lesson … Continue reading "Sermon for October 25, 2020" Read the article
Psalm 99:1-9 • Exodus 33:12-23 • 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 • Matthew 22:15-22 This week’s theme is God’s glory goes with us. In Exodus 33, Moses asks God to send his glory with Israel and then to show Moses his glory. Psalm 99, this week’s call to worship, is a historical poem of God’s glory going … Continue reading "Sermon for October 18, 2020" Read the article
Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 • Exodus 32:1-14 • Philippians 4:1-9 • Matthew 22:1-14 The theme for this week is when doing changes thinking, which helps us remember that engaging in helpful practices and spiritual disciplines can deepen our connection to God. The Psalm 106 call to worship, and Exodus 32 tell the story of how Aaron … Continue reading "Sermon for October 11, 2020" Read the article
Psalm 19:1-14 • Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 • Philippians 3:4b-14 • Matthew 21:33-46 The theme this week: God’s gracious hedge. The call to worship, Psalm 19, sings the praises of God who gave these instructions for how best to be human. Exodus 20 gives us the original Ten Commandments—a hedge of godly behavior setting apart … Continue reading "Sermon for October 4, 2020" Read the article
God’s clock—centered on Jesus—determines how we set our life clocks. By Emmanuel Okai, West Africa Regional Director, National Director, Ghana & Church Pastor Akim-Oda, Ghana In the diagram produced by GCI that shows the annual cycle of Christian worship activities and themes, we see the name of Jesus Christ in the inner … Continue reading "The GCI Worship Calendar" Read the article
As we continue to gather digitally, or we transition to meeting in person, it is even more crucial to have clear and consistent communication about your congregation and church life. With increased live streaming of services, a communication plan is important for current members, as well as for guests that are connecting with you online. … Continue reading "Church Hack: Setting up a Church Communication Plan" Read the article
By Daphne Sidney, Superintendent Australasia Liturgy at first glance may seem a rather antiquated idea, but in examining it further, I have found that it can have deep relevance to our Christian walk today. The world we live in today is full of despair for many. There is a general lack of trust … Continue reading "Liturgy – Worship through the Seasons of Life" Read the article
