Cantata Sunday
Third Sunday of Advent, December 14, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Isaiah 40:1-5; Zephaniah 3:14-20; Isaiah 9:2-7; Revelation 1:1,3-4
Music Director Andreea Fagen
Special highlights from G. F. Handel’s magnificent Messiah featuring the Chancel Choir, String Quartet and Guest Musicians.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Poinsettia Order Form
Hymns:
Hymn 93 “Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates” (TRURO)
Hymn 119 “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” Vs. 1 & 2 (MENDELSSOHN)
On the Threshold
Second Sunday of Advent, December 7, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 89:1-4; Luke 1:26-38
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
As we anticipate the birth of Christ this week we hear Mary’s song and we light the advent candle of peace. May we prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 133 “O Come, All Ye Faithful” (ADESTE FIDELES)
Hymn 145 “What Child Is This” (GREENSLEEVES)
Hymn 115 “Away in a Manger” (MUELLER)
Keep Watch
First Sunday of Advent, November 30, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Isaiah 2:1-5; Mark 13:24-37
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
As we enter the season of advent, we watch and wait for the coming of our Lord. May our hearts be ready to welcome the infant king.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 100 “My Soul Cries Out with a Joyful Shout” v. 1-3 (STAR OF THE COUNTY DOWN)
Hymn 82 “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus” (HYFRYDOL)
Hymn 93 “Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates” (TRURO)
When Did We See?
Christ the King Sunday, November 23, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 23; Matthew 25:31-46
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who cares for his sheep and instructs us to care as well. We are called to love one another, just as Christ loves us.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 367 “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come” (ST. GEORGE’S WINDSOR)
Hymn 647 “Give Thanks” (GIVE THANKS)
Hymn 643 “Now Thank We All Our God” (NUN DANKET ALLE GOTT)
A Service of Installation: Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Sunday, November 16, 2025 @ 3:00 PM
Readings: Isaiah 43:1-5a,18-21; 1 Corinthians 3:1-12
Sermon: “Of Foundations and Futures: Being Christ’s Body in Perilous Times” by Dr. Mary Westfall
Hymns:
Hymn 14 “For the Beauty of the Earth” (DIX)
Hymn 757 “Today We All Are Called to Be Disciples” (KINGSFOLD)
Hymn 298 “Lord, You Give the Great Commission” v. 1 & 2 (ABBOT’S LEIGH)
Joy and Delight
Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost, November 16, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Isaiah 65:17-25; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
God is always doing a new thing among us and we are participants in it. The church once reformed is always reforming. We are always becoming something new, even now.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 23 “God, You Spin the Whirling Planets” (PLEADING SAVIOR)
Hymn 761 “Called as Partners in Christ’s Service” (BEECHER)
Hymn 748 “Go with Us, Lord” (Sung through twice) (TALLIS’ CANON)
Longing for the Good Old Days
Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost, November 9, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 145:1-5,17-21; Haggai 1:15b-2:9
Rev. Linda Goeddel
The good news is that God is doing a new thing; the challenge is that it will be different from the good old days and we’ll have to step into the unfamiliar.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 409 “God Is Here!” (ABBOT’S LEIGH)
Hymn 733 “We All Are One in Mission” (ES FLOG EIN KLEINS WALDVÖGELEIN)
Hymn 734 “Hope of the World” (DONNE SECOURS)
Where God’s Spirit Dwells
All Saint’s Sunday, November 2, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Hebrews 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 3:10-11
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Our foundation is Jesus Christ our Lord. Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. As Christ led the faithful saints who have gone before us, so Christ’s continues to lead us now.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 326 “For All the Saints” (SINE NOMINE)
Hymn 321 “The Church’s One Foundation” (v. 1-3) (AURELIA)
Hymn 619 “Praise, My Soul, the God of Heaven” (LAUDA ANIMA)
Trusting God’s Mercy
Reformation Sunday, October 26, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 84:1-7; Luke 18:9-14
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
We cannot earn our way into receiving God’s love, rather it is freely given. Our God is full of mercy and abounding in steadfast love.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 275 “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” (EIN’ FESTE BURG)
Hymn 829 “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” (OLIVET)
Hymn 610 “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing” (AZMON)
Faithful Practice
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 19, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 119:97-104; Luke 18:1-8
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
In what ways is our faith something we practice? And how does such practice help us in our daily living?
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 12 “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise” (ST. DENIO)
Hymn 450 “Be Thou My Vision” (SLANE)
Hymn 687 “Our God, Our Help in Ages Past” (ST. ANNE)
Exclaiming Gratitude
Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 12, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 66; Luke 17:11-19
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Gratitude is always our response to God, just as it was the healed Samaritan’s response to Jesus. Gratitude and praise are our response to the life we have been given and to the grace we have received.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 267 “Come, Christians, Join to Sing” (MADRID)
Hymn 240 “Alleluia, Alleluia! Give Thanks” (ALLELUIA NO. 1)
Hymn 305 “Come Sing, O Church in Joy!” (DARWALL’S 148TH)
Mustard Seed Faith
World Communion Sunday, October 5, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Lamentations 3:19-26; Luke 17:5-6
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Jesus says all we need is faith the size of a mustard seed and we can move mountains. How do we put this mustard seed faith into action?
Service Bulletin
Introit “We Are the World” by USA for Africa
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 39 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” (FAITHFULNESS)
Hymn 301 “Let Us Build a House” v. 1-3 (TWO OAKS)
Hymn 817 “We Walk by Faith and Not by Sight” (DUNLAP’S CREEK)
As a Hen Gathers her Brood
Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 28, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 36:5-10, Luke 13: 31-35
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
God is gracious, kind, and loving. In our text for this week we learn that God loves us like a mother hen who gathers her brood under her wings.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 35 “Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty” (LOBE DEN HERREN)
Hymn 436 “God of Compassion, in Mercy Befriend Us” (O QUANTA QUALIA)
Hymn 848 “Trust in God” (SONG 13)
Vision for Tomorrow
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 21, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 4; Luke 16:1-13
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
This week we are met with another parable from Jesus. This one reminds us how important it is to know who we are and what we are called to do as disciples of Jesus.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 611 “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” (HYMN TO JOY)
Hymn 733 “We All Are One in Mission” (ES FLOG EIN KLEINS WALDVÖGELEIN)
Hymn 744 “Arise, Your Light Is Come!” (FESTAL SONG)
The Joy of Finding
Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 14, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 14; Luke 15:1-10
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
What a joy it is to find something that is lost. In our two parables this week we hear about what it means to be found.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 35 “Praise Ye The Lord, the Almighty” (LOBE DEN HERREN)
Hymn 803 “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need” (RESIGNATION)
Hymn 649 “Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound” (AMAZING GRACE)
The Potter and the Clay
Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 7, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 1; Jeremiah 18:1-11
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
What does it mean to be created by God? Jeremiah reminds us that we are continually molded and shaped by God.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 37 “Let All Things Now Living” (ASH GROVE)
Hymn 695 “Change My Heart, O God” Sung through twice (CHANGE MY HEART)
Hymn 288 “Spirit of the Living God” Sung through twice (LIVING GOD)
Room at the Table
Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost, August 31, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Psalm 112; Luke 14:1,7-14
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Who does Jesus welcome to the table? Who does Christ encourage us to welcome? What does it mean to live as the hands and feet of Christ in the world?
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 32 “I Sing the Mighty Power of God” (ELLECOMBE)
Hymn 757 “Today We All Are Called to Be Disciples” (KINGSFOLD)
Hymn 372 “O for a World” (AZMON)
Changing the Rules
Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost, August 24, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Isaiah 58:9b-14; Luke 13:10-17
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Jesus has a way of turning things upside down from how we thought they should be. Always serving from a place of deep love and care. Where might we find we fit into Jesus’ expansive love.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 19 “God of Great and God of Small” (GOD OF GREAT AND SMALL)
Hymn 435 “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy” (IN BABILONE)
Hymn 366 “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling” (v. 1-3 (HYFRYDOL)
Rest for Your Soul
Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 17, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Psalm 139:1–12; Matthew 11:25–30
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
What does true rest feel like? Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 32 “I Sing the Mighty Power of God” (ELLECOMBE)
Hymn 22 “God of the Sparrow” (ROEDER)
Hymn 408 “There’s a Sweet, Sweet Spirit” (SWEET, SWEET SPIRIT)
Faith Stories
Ninth Sunday after Pentecost, August 10, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Psalm 50:1–8, 22–23; Hebrews 11:1–3, 8–16
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
In the community of faith it is important to tell our own stories of who we know God to be and of the ways in which God is at work in our lives. What stories of faith might you have to tell?
Service Bulletin
Baptism Insert: Neil James Van Sickle
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 409 “God Is Here!” (ABBOT’S LEIGH)
Hymn 486 “Child of Blessing, Child of Promise” (KINGDOM)
Hymn 462 “I Love to Tell the Story” (HANKEY)
Planting Seeds and Bearing Fruit
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, August 3, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Psalm 107:1–9, 43, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
What does the gift of God’s grace look like in our lives? And how does God’s grace enable us to make a difference in the lives of others?
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 664 “Morning Has Broken” (BUNESSAN)
Hymn 507 “Come to the Table of Grace” (TABLE OF GRACE)
Hymn 700 “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me” (I’M GONNA LIVE)
Persistent Prayer
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost, July 27, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Psalm 138, Luke 11:1-13
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
In our text for this week Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray. This is the text where we learn the words to the Lord’s Prayer. Through these familiar words what does Jesus have to teach us about prayer?
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 667 “When Morning Gilds the Skies” (LAUDES DOMINI)
Hymn 451 “Open My Eyes, That I May See” (OPEN MY EYES)
Hymn 175 “Seek Ye First” (LAFFERTY)
The One Thing Needful
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, July 20, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Psalm 100; Luke 10:38-42
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
What does a life of discipleship look like? In the text for this Sunday, Mary and Martha respond to Jesus’ presence with them in different ways. What might we have to learn from each of them?
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 23 “God, You Spin the Whirling Planets” (PLEADING SAVIOR)
Hymn 697 “Take My Life” vs. 1 – 3, 6 (HENDON)
Hymn 748 “Go with Us, Lord” (TALLIS’ CANON)
Whom Shall I Send?
Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, July 13, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Romans 8:12-25, Isaiah 6:1-8
Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
What does it mean to be forgiven and called? God’s call is not usually loud or direct, rather it often comes as a whisper like a gentle nudge or a calming sense of peace. How in this time and place might God be calling you?
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 20 “All Things Bright and Beautiful” (ROYAL OAK)
Hymn 69 “Here I Am, Lord” (HERE I AM)
Hymn 526 “Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ” (LINSTEAD)
Humility and Faith
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, July 6, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Proverbs 15:28-33, Matthew 5:1-10
Dr. J. Andrew Bowe
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 337 “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee” (AMERICA)
Hymn 2190 “Bring Forth the Kingdom” Vs. 1, 2 & 4 (BRING FORTH THE KINGDOM) in “Sing the Faith (Pew Edition)”
Hymn 340 “This Is My Song” (FINLANDIA)
Sunday Service
Third Sunday after Pentecost, June 29, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62
Rev. Sue Smith
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 15 “All Creatures of Our God and King” vs. 1, 2 & 6 (LASST UNS ERFREUEN)
Popular Hymn “The Sound of Silence” by Paul Simon
Hymn 749 “Come! Live in the Light!” (WE ARE CALLED)
Insist on More
Second Sunday after Pentecost, June 22, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: 1 Kings Romans 18:20-39, Galatians 1:1-12
Rev. Linda Goeddel
It is easy to put our trust in things other than God without even realizing we’ve done it. But nothing else we depend on is as faithful or as powerful God – if we put our faith in anything else, we settle for less than God wants for us.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 307 “God of Grace and God of Glory” (CWM RHONDDA)
Hymn 463 “How Firm a Foundation” vs. 1, 2 & 5 (FOUNDATION)
Hymn 657 “Sing to God, with Joy and Gladness” (GLENDON)
A Loving Community
Trinity Sunday / Father’s Day, June 15, 2025 @ 9:15 AM
Readings: Romans 5:1-5, John 16:12-15
Rev. Linda Goeddel
As the Creator, Savior and Sustainer live in eternal, loving community with each other, so we are invited to live in community with them and with all of creation.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 2 “Come, Thou Almighty King” (ITALIAN HYMN)
Hymn 4 “Holy God, We Praise Your Name” (GROSSER GOTT, WIR LOBEN DICH)
Hymn 716 “God, Whose Giving Knows No Ending” (BEACH SPRING)
Tap into the Power!
Pentecost Sunday, June 8, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Joel 2:26-29, Acts 1:8,14 & 2:1-12
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
As one ‘bard’ of my generation put it lyrically, ‘All Things Must Pass’… Or maybe better, all things move on and yield to new beginnings – including for clergy and congregations. And so, after a year of partnering with you in ministry and mission, my surprising and delightful tenure as your Interim Pastor comes to a close. Fitting that my final Sunday invites us to embrace the promise and guidance of the Pentecost experience as shared by Luke in Acts.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 289 “On Pentecost They Gathered” (Vs. 1, 2 & 4) (MUNICH)
Hymn 192 “Lord, the Light of Your Love Is Shining” (SHINE, JESUS, SHINE)
Hymn 295 “Go to the World!” (SINE NOMINE)
A Call to Great Things!
Seventh Sunday of Easter, June 1, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
A Celebration of the Lord’s Supper
Readings: John 3:1-9, 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
So unofficially after last weekend, the summer season has begun and we are looking ahead to new events and adventures. Clearly so for you who are FPC Rumson. You all look forward to the conclusion of this Transition Time and the new beginnings under new Pastoral leadership. I have penned a longer final note in a farewell mood included in the Announcements. And I intend for this Sunday and my final with you, next week, June 8, to offer some encouraging affirmations of faith and an admonition that you count on them, and embrace them! I hope you will be in worship to reflect this Sunday!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 301 “Let Us Build a House” (Vs. 1, 3, 5) (TWO OAKS)
Hymn 515 “I Come with Joy” (Vs. 1 – 3) (DOVE OF PEACE)
Hymn 450 “Be Thou My Vision” (SLANE)
Congregational Meeting Materials:
Minutes of January 26, 2025 Congregational Meeting
2024 Financial Statement (on our password protected “Forms & File (Members Only)” page)
What Will They Do in Remembrance of You?
Memorial Sunday, Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 25, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Deuteronomy 34:5-12, Matthew 7:15-20
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
The springish spirit of Easter rolls on and I am all the more mindful that my weeks with you are coming to a close, June 8 being my final Sunday to lead worship. Maybe it’s partly because this is a weekend in which mindfulness, memory is encouraged – in both a national and a personal sense. In worship this week we will honor both. The national mood invites us to look outward in gratitude for those who gave their last full measure of devotion for us and the life of possibilities and service we cherish. The personal mood centers us on thoughts of those we have loved and lost awhile. And all of it encourages us to wonder – when our role is called – What will others do – specifically, what will others do in memory of you – and what will make a difference? …’ Hope you are glad to be in worship to reflect this Sunday!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 331 “God of the Ages, Whose Almighty Hand” (Vs. 1, 2 & 4) (NATIONAL HYMN)
Hymn 340 “This Is My Song” (Vs. 1 & 3) (FINLANDIA)
Hymn 338 “O Beautiful for Spacious Skies” (MATERNA)
Why the Rule Is Golden
Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 18, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 37:1-9, Luke 6:27-36
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
This Sunday, the spirit of Easter continues and I am mindful that my weeks with you are numbered. As I look prayerfully ahead I find myself thinking about directions for your future and an image came to mind. It’s inspired by a prompt from a savvy church consultant who once opined that if one looked at the average church member, one might say they are a Golden Rule Chirstian. The thought being that many of us if pressed, might allow that nuancing the finer points of theological tact is tedious. We don’t fret too much on what we believe. What we really work on is how do we behave? How do we treat one another = with kindness, deference, concern, respect? Which would make us Golden Rule Christians. Actually, that sounds pretty good to me. If only across the social and – cultural spectrums – hey, maybe even the political – we could work a little harder on that, I sense we’d all benefit. Which suggests that yet again Jesus knew whereof he spoke. And makes it a worthwhile plan to review, ‘Why the Rule is Golden…’ Hope you will be in worship to reflect this Sunday!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 267 “Come, Christians, Join to Sing” (MADRID)
Contemporary Hymn “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon, Jimmy Holiday, Randy Myers
Hymn 546 “Lord, Dismiss Us with Your Blassing” (SICILIAN MARINERS)
Just Like a Mother: God Is!
Fourth Sunday of Easter, May 11, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Isaiah 66:10-13, Matthew 23:37-39
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
This Sunday, the spirit of Easter carries with a twist, to connect our national holiday, with an important mood of our Faith. Biblical exploration to expand our image of God, has over time, yielded a timely conclusion and led to persons in pastoral leadership unthought of a century ago. Hope you will be in worship to reflect on why and how this Mother’s Day!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 14 “For the Beauty of the Earth” (Vs. 1, 2, 4 & 5) (DIX)
Contemporary Hymn “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers
Hymn 293 “Loving Spirit” (Vs. 1, 2, 3 & 5) (OMNI DIE)
Focus on the Source
Third Sunday of Easter, May 4, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 42:1-6, Acts 4:5-10
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
This Sunday, the spirit of Easter carries on with a nod to an interesting novel by a recently classic author. If like me, you appreciate the massive works of James Mitchner, you may know his fictional account of historical life in Israel, titled, ‘The Source.’ An unusual point of connection with our life of faith emerges from the metaphoric extension of that image. That and our recent lifting up of the 55th anniversary of Earth Day, make for a challenge to keep before ourselves in this Easter time. We’ll also share the Lord’s Supper on this first Sunday of the month. Hope you will be in worship!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 231 “Christ Has Risen While Earth Slumbers” (HYMN TO JOY)
Hymn 715 “The Earth Belongs to God Alone” (Vs. 1, 3 & 4) (SIMMONS)
Hymn 475 “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” (NETTLETON)
Let’s Take It from Thomas!
Second Sunday of Easter, April 27, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 118:14-20, John 20:19-29
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
Banking on the celebratory spirit of Resurrection Sunday last week, we are invited to continue the focus in this church season traditionally noted as ‘Eastertide.’ The suggested scripture for this week takes us to the upper room wherein the disciples are still deliberating on what to make of Jesus’ surprising reappearance – and trying to include Thomas in the mix, since he was absent on Resurrection evening.
I tend to like to visit this scene, because Thomas is my kind of guy. And I’ll go on record that I think he gets bum rap. Over the years the church has been awfully hard on him – ‘Doubting Thomas’ we’ve heard – you don’t want to be like him… Which has troubled me. I’ve come to see Thomas as a ‘show me’ sort of fellow – an exemplar of a thoughtful, reflective, probing kind of faith. He shows forth one of my favorite sayings, “If you want to know the mind of God, you have to learn to use your own.” In a timely way, as we celebrate his life and global ministry, I’ve also concluded that Pope Francis would be a kindred spirit – in the pursuit of a reasoned and grounded faith path. He is and will be missed.
So, This Sunday, we’ll pursue all this, with a nod to seeing Thomas as one who shines with an active faith most significant for us today! I’ll hope to see you in worship.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 248 “Christ Is Risen! Shout Hosanna!” (HYMN TO JOY)
Hymn 233 “The Day of Resurrection!” (LANCASHIRE)
Hymn 246 “Christ Is Alive!” (Vs. 1, 2 & 5) (TRURO)
The Final Beatitude: Never Again the Same!
Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Isaiah 25:1,6-9, Acts 10:34-43
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
As you’ve been able to follow along – this week we come to the culmination of Lent and our reflections on Jesus’ Beatitudes. With this grandest day in our Faith Calendar in fact – we push beyond to celebrate our Lord’s Resurrection as ‘The Final Beatitude’ in whose shadow our lives might Never Again be the Same.
With the scent of lilies and the sounds of favorite hymns you’ll want to be sure to secure your place in the pew and to reaffirm your ranking among our God’s Easter People! Come, let’s rejoice in the enriching Grace of the Easter Proclamation – and each seal our spot on the Faith Family tree. See you in worship!
An Affirmation for Easter Sunday!
I’ve always liked the way my late peer, the Rev. William Sloan Coffin brought the Easter Affirmation home in a contemporary mode. He said…
“Christ’s Resurrection promises our own resurrection. For Christ is risen for us – to put love in our hearts, decent thoughts in our heads, and a little more iron in our spines. If then God is for us, we can be for ourselves – and, we can be there for each other. Christ is Risen to convert us not only from life to something more than this life, but to save us from settling for anything less – to urge us on to fullness of life here and now – his spiritual companionship guiding the way!”
I look forward to celebrating the Easter possibilities with you on April 20 – and into the open future as the transition to your next Installed Pastor begins in earnest! E Nicholas Van Gombos, Interim Pastor
Service Bulletin
Announcements
RPC Scholarship Application Form
Hymns:
Hymn 232 “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today” (EASTER HYMN)
Hymn 234 “Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain” (Vs. 1, 2 & 4) (ST. KEVIN)
Hymn 238 “Thine Is the Glory” (JUDAS MACCABEUS)
Good Friday Meditation
April 18, 2025 @ 12:00 Noon – 1:00 PM (No YouTube feed)
To allow individual prayer on Good Friday, our sanctuary will be open for from 10:30 AM until noon. Meditative music will be offered, and the candles will be lit. You are invited to come in any time during that hour, and stay as long or short as you wish, as you spend time in meditation and prayer.
Maundy Thursday Service
Wilson Hall, April 17, 2025 @ 7:30 PM (No YouTube feed)
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
We gather as the church family to honor our Lord’s Last Supper on this evening traditionally known as ‘Maundy Thursday’ – for Jesus’ “new commandment” (Latin: mandatum novum).
“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also love one another.” John 13:34
The mood of Communion will grow as it did many years ago as we hear what Jesus had to say to us, and finally receive the symbols of His eternal love; before proceeding into the pensive events that follow into that night and on into Friday.
Service Bulletin
Communion Liturgy Insert
Hymns:
Hymn 202 “An Upper Room Did Our Lord Prepare” (Vs. 1 & 2) (O WALY WALY)
Hymn 223 “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” (Vs. 1, 2 & 4) (HAMBURG)
The Beatitudes for Lent: O Those Donkeys
Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Isaiah 50:4-9, Matthew 5:6-10
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
This week we’ll listen for the message implied in two related Beatitudes – “Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness, and, Those who are persecuted for Righteousness’ sake – theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” And, since the Palm Sunday event and all that follows points us to Jesus himself as one whose ministry and teachings were about the pursuit of Righteousness, a focus on Palm Sunday is the place to be. And, since there is a subtle but significant message in the animal Jesus rode, another nod to that domesticated beast of burden is beneficial. Yet again I hope to see you in church that Jesus might continue to nudge us into his way!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Holy Week Poem
Easter Lily Order Form
RPC Scholarship Application Form
Hymns:
Hymn 197 “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” (ELLACOMBE)
Hymn 198 “Ride On! Ride On in Majesty!” (ST. DROSTANE)
Hymn 196 “All Glory, Laud, and Honor” (VALET WILL ICH DIR GEBEN)
The Beatitudes for Lent: A Pure Thing
Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 6, 2025 @ 9:45 AM (Communion)
Readings: Matthew 5:1-10 – The Message
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
This week we’ll seek cues from Curly’s comment to City Slicker Billy Crystal about ‘finding that one thing,’ through Kierkegaard’s insight that the ‘Purity of Heart is to Will One Thing’ as we listen for the word Jesus offers in Be-attitude #6 – ‘Blessed are the Pure in Heart – For they shall see God!’. How, When and Where might such seeing occur is inquiry worth our pursuing. Hope to see you in church that Jesus might nudge us into his way.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Easter Lily Order Form
RPC Scholarship Application Form
Hymns:
Hymn 667 “When Morning Gilds the Skies” (LAUDES DOMINI)
Hymn 2155 “Blest Are They” (BLEST ARE THEY) in “Sing the Faith (Pew Edition)”
Hymn 804 “Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart” (MARION)
The Beatitudes for Lent: Manifest Mercy
Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 30, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 57:1-3,9-11; Matthew 5:1-10
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
We’ll listen for the word Jesus offers in Be-attitude #4 – ‘Blessed are the Merciful– for they shall obtain Mercy.’ A common sense principle and promise that what goes around, comes around will be explored this week. Why is it so tricky to know that grace, forbearance, cutting each other some slack will always be the preferred way? Yet again we are invited to embrace the simple possibilities to which Jesus calls us! Hope to see you in church!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Easter Lily Order Form
RPC Scholarship Application Form
Hymns:
Hymn 435 “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy” (IN BABILONE)
Hymn 436 “God of Compassion, in Mercy Befriend Us” (O QUANTA QUALIA)
Hymn 31 “Let Us with a Gladsome Mind” (MONKLAND)
The Beatitudes for Lent: The Indubitably Debonaire
Third Sunday in Lent, March 23, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 25:1-10; Matthew 5:1-10
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
We’ll listen for the word Jesus offers in Be-attitude #3 – ‘Blessed are the Meek – for they shall inherit the earth.’ A curious thought for this, or any time. It certainly doesn’t seem to jibe with our ‘natural tendencies’ about what makes for success toward ‘inheriting’ anything. Maybe yet again we are invited to embrace the ironic nuance to which Jesus calls us?! Hope to see you in church to explore this together!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 619 “Praise, My Soul, the God of Heaven” (LAUDA ANIMA)
Song “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers
Hymn 475 “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” (NETTLETON)
The Beatitudes for Lent: Blessed Are Those that Mourn
Second Sunday in Lent, March 16, 2025 @ 9:45 AM (Communion)
Readings: Psalm 40:1-3,16-17; Matthew 5:1-4
Rev. Linda Goeddel
Jesus says that those who mourn are blessed. How can that be, and how can we live to make it so?
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 63 “The Lord Is God” (AZMON)
Song “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Paul Simon
Hymn 819 “Be Still, My Soul” (Vs. 1 & 2) (FINLANDIA)
The Beatitudes for Lent: Do Be a ‘Do Be’!
First Sunday in Lent, March 9, 2025 @ 9:45 AM (Baptism)
Readings: Psalm 1; Matthew 5:1-10
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
We’ll listen for the word Jesus offers in Be-attitude #1 – ‘Blessed are the Poor in Spirit.’ This may not be easily embraced, unless one determines the profound nuance to the text – which we will! Hope to see you in church!
Service Bulletin
Baptism Insert: Peter Andrew Lehman
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 166 “Lord, Who throughout These Forty Days” (ST. FLAVIAN)
Baptismal Hymn 486 “Child of Blessing, Child of Promise” Vs. 1 & 4 (KINGDOM)
Hymn 824 “There Is a Place of Quiet Rest (Near to the Heart of God)” (MC AFEE)
Hymn 432 “How Clear Is Our Vocation, Lord” (Vs. 1, 2 & 4) (REPTON)
Ash Wednesday Service
Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
God So Loved
Sunday, March 2, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 100; John 3:1-17
Rev. Dr. Whitney S. Bayer
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 611 “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” (HYMN TO JOY)
Hymn 450 “Be Thou My Vision” (SLANE)
Hymn 305 “Come Sing, O Church, in Joy!” (DARWALL’S 148TH)
The Gospel Speaks in Popular Culture: A Sermon Series for Winter 2025
This Week’s Sermon: The Never Ending Story
Seventh Sunday after Epiphany, February 23, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: 1 Chronicles 29:10-13; Revelation 21:1-5
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
How well I recall after a number of years of bedtime stories, asking my young sons – ‘So how many stories are there??’ In the end we really did come to a number. I’ll share it with you on Sunday. Which might be additional incentive to join for worship this final winter Sunday as we warm ourselves up by lifting items from the popular culture which bring Gospel messages to us in surprising ways. For one more week we’ll continue – this time reflecting on how stories from our everyday can bring to mind the essential message of the Gospel. Hope you will join us to explore ‘The Never Ending Story’ together!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 610 “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing” vs. 1, 2, 4 & 5 (AMZON)
Song “Here Comes the Sun” by George Harrison
Hymn 821 “My Life Flows On” (HOW CAN I KEEP FROM SINGING)
The Gospel Speaks in Popular Culture: A Sermon Series for Winter 2025
This Week’s Sermon: All You Need Is Love
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany, February 16, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: John 15:9-17; 1 Corinthians 13 (Sel.)
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
So the inspiration from a young grandson’s review of sub themes from Lord of the Rings, along with the occasions for current/contemporary songs in worship – continues to get your Interim Pastor to thinking. How do these and other cultural expressions stir up connections with themes of our Faith?? On recent Winter Sundays we’ve worked to warm ourselves by lifting up songs from the popular culture which bring Gospel messages to us in surprising ways. For one more week we’ll continue – this time listening in as THE rock group of the last century (no bias of course) leads with “All You Need is Love.” Sounds like the right tune for a Valentine’s weekend. Of course, it might depend on which nuance of amore is in mind and heart… Join us and let’s explore it together!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 366 “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling” vs. 1 – 3 (HYFRYDOL)
Song “All You Need IS Love” by John Lennon & Paul McCartney
Hymn 693 “Though I May Speak” (GIFT OF LOVE)
The Gospel Speaks in Popular Culture: A Sermon Series for Winter 2025
This Week’s Sermon: May You Stay Forever Young
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, February 9, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Ecclesiastes 12 (Sel.); Mark 10:13-16
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
Once again a review of the recent biopic on folk legend Bob Dylan, Along with reviewing sub themes of Star Wars with a grandson, and the occasions for current/contemporary songs in worship – got your Interim Pastor to thinking. How do these and other cultural expressions stir up connections with themes of our Faith?? On these recent Winter Sundays we’ve worked to warm ourselves by lifting up songs from the popular culture which bring Gospel messages to us in surprising ways. For one more week the evolving voice of Mr. Dylan leads with another of his signature tunes: “Forever Young,” sung actually when I knew the joy of Baptizing each of my grandchildren. The songster’s mood shifts to a more tender and personal vein – and once again, the message rings so true. Join us and see if you don’t agree!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 14 “For the Beauty of the Earth” vs. 1, 2, 4 & 5 (DIX)
Song “Forever Young” by Bob Dylan
Hymn #435 “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy” (IN BABILONE)
The Gospel Speaks in Popular Culture: A Sermon Series for Winter 2025
This Week’s Sermon: The Times They Are A-Changin’
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, February 2, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 31 (Sel.); Matthew 24:30-44
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
A reminder that the recent film on folk legend Bob Dylan, as well as a notification of this summer’s dates for his concerts… That and the 55th Anniversary of Woodstock last summer… Along with reviewing sub themes of Lord of the Rings with a grandson, and the occasions for current/contemporary songs in worship – all got your Interim Pastor to thinking. How do these and other cultural expressions stir up connections with themes of our Faith?? On these next few Winter Sundays we’ll work to warm ourselves by lifting up songs and story lines from the popular culture which bring Gospel messages to us in surprising ways. We began last Sunday with a sermon inspired by Dylan’s signature tune, ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’ the fourth guitar tune I ever learned with my 7th grade ‘axe.’ We continue this Sunday with what strikes me and many as the most significant ‘protest song’ of the era: “The Times They Are a Changin’” And oh my the message rings too true. You’ll want to be here!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 23 “God, You Spin the Whirling Planets” (PLEADING SAVIOR)
Song “The Times They Are A-Changin’” by Bob Dylan
Hymn #754 “Help Us Accept Each Other” vs. 1, 3, 4 (BARONITA)
The Gospel Speaks in Popular Culture: A Sermon Series for Winter 2025
This Week’s Sermon: How Long?
Third Sunday after Epiphany, January 26, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 13 (Sel.); John 3:1-9
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
The recent film on folk legend for those of a certain age, Bob Dylan, as well as a recent reminder of his Nobel Prize award… That and the 55th Anniversary of Woodstock last summer… Along with reviewing sub themes of Harry Potter with a grandson, and the occasions for current/contemporary songs in worship – all got your Interim Pastor to thinking. How do these and other cultural expressions stir up connections with themes of our Faith?? On these next few Winter Sundays we’ll work to warm ourselves by lifting up songs and story lines from the popular culture which bring Gospel messages to us in surprising ways.
We begin this Sunday with a sermon entitled, “How Long?” with Dylan’s signature tune, ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’ leading the way. You’ll want to be here!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 757 “Today We All Are Called to Be Disciples” Vs. 1, 3 & 4 (KINGSFOLD)
Song “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan
Hymn for the Church #306 “Blest Be the Ties That Bind” Vs. 1, 3, 5 (DENNIS)
Congregational Meeting Materials:
Agenda
Minutes of Past Congregational Meetings
2024 Annual Report
2025 Budget (on our password protected “Forms & File (Members Only)” page)
Realizing the Dream! – 6 Decades On
Second Sunday after Epiphany, January 19, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Isaiah 61:1-3; Luke 4:14-21
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
Although not an official designation, our PCUSA leaders nudge us to think of this coming sabbath as a Social Ministries Sunday. I think it is because of our national day of acknowledgment and memorial for one who over 60 years ago ‘Had a Dream’ about new possibilities for the country that has galvanized many ever since. I wonder how many are interested in how the incoming political administration’s priorities will jibe with our celebration of Dr. MLK whose day ironically is also the Inauguration?
For our part, we will be led as Dr. King was, by the inspiration of the Prophet Isaiah and Jesus our Christ to reflect upon the work past and the need ongoing to further Realize the Dream which has been latent since our nation’s founding. We who are disciples of the Lord, can resonate with then President Johnson who picked up the vision and once intone – “And We Shall Overcome!” You’ll want to be here.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 772 “Live into Hope” (TRURO)
Hymn “Pride (In the Name of Love)” by U2
Hymn “We Shall Overcome” a Gospel, Folk, and Labor song
Remember Your Baptism?!
Baptism of the Lord Sunday, January 12, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Readings: Psalm 29:1-4,9-10; Luke 3:15-22
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
In the measured flow of the ‘Liturgical Calendar Year’ we often take cues from our ancestors and honor particular Sundays with a focused theme. This coming Sabbath is one of those, as the Worship Calendar invites us to keep the Sanctuary color white and follow the Gospel’s lead. Just so, we move from celebrating Jesus’ birth on quickly to the beginning of his ministry at his Baptism. The extension of the Biblical narrative calls us to recall to mind our role to carry on as his Baptized people. And so we shall!
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 475 “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” (NETTLESON)
Hymn 482 “Baptized in Water” (BUNESSAN)
Hymn 65 “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” (CWM RHONDDA)
Star Struck
Epiphany/New Year Sunday, January 5, 2025 @ 9:45 AM
Reading: Matthew 2:1-12
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
“On the Twelfth Day of Christmas” – according to long standing tradition – The Wise Men appeared! You probably know that’s because traditionally the Christmas Season didn’t begin at Thanksgiving – certainly not Halloween and no way Labor Day!! No the Yule Tide season began on Nativity morning (First Day) and carried for 12 more – concluding with Epiphany – the ‘appearing or revealing’- when non Hebrews were led to honor the ‘new born’ as king for all peoples. Talk about a new beginning for the world – which our Carols like to celebrate if we listen well.
For that reason, Epiphany has always garnered your current Interim Pastor’s attention. That and the way the mood dove tails with our calendar ‘Near Year.’ Nice coincidence. New beginnings indeed. With the built in reminder that ‘wise ones do still seek Him!’ With Worship to include The Lord’s Supper, you’ll want to be here to commence your – and our – New Year.
Service Bulletin
Announcements
Hymns:
Hymn 664 “Morning Has Broken” (BUNESSAN)
Hymn 151 “We Three Kings of Orient Are” (KINGS OF ORIENT)
Hymn 150 “As with Gladness Men of Old” (DIX)