Explore our topics page for a collection of news and information relevant to church ministry. Each tag connects you to resources, insights, and discussions aimed at supporting various aspects of ministry life at the United Church.
One of the beautiful things about church life is that ministry continues to grow as people notice needs, share ideas, and step forward with hearts to serve. Over the past several months, people in our church family have shared thoughtful ideas for...
Hello all… I am writing to shout out a thank you to all of you for helping one of our United Church Called to Care Canandaigua (CTCC) families with Wednesday dinner meals over the last three months. What a blessing we are to each other when we ar...
**Tuesday, July 29 6:30 p.m. Welcome Center** All Care Ministry Team Volunteers are invited to our annual summer ice cream social. Mark your calendars and plan to join us for a sweet evening together! More det...
Loose change and other designated gifts will be collected on the first Sunday in June to support the Stewards Assistance Fund, helping provide compassionate assistance to individuals and families experiencing unexpected needs. In recent months, th...
The Board of Stewards welcomes Lou (Louis) V. to our Senior Companion Circle. He was born January 14, 1937 and married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn, September 19, 1959. They have three adult children, Barbara Lynn (who has gone home to be w...
“Sometimes faith is trusting God when we can’t see the way or hear His voice. Sometimes God leads in obscurity and asks us to get up and do what we can with what we have. Sometimes the greatest step of faith is into the unknown, knowing only that ...
Don’t you just love our church family!!! One of the great ways I got to meet and know so many of the lovely members of our church was by accepting a position on the Board of Stewards. The once/month meetings (except in summer) are joyous occasion...
On the first Sundays of May, loose offering will be designated for the Stewards Assistance Fund. This fund allows us to care for those in our church family in practical and meaningful ways during times of need. Your generosity helps us quietly ext...
Our Senior Companion Circle has long been part of how we care for one another at The United Church. But recently, we’ve found ourselves gently shifting how we think about it. Rather than focusing on age, we’re focusing on connection. For some...
As Care Ministry continues to grow at The United Church, so do the opportunities to care in practical ways. One of the simplest and most meaningful ministries is our Transportation Team. For some in our church family, getting to a doctor’s appoin...
While we do not currently offer a formal grief support group at The United Church, we want you to know that support is available in our wider Christian community. Crosswinds Wesleyan Church offers a Grief Support Group for those walking through ...
On April 25th, Betty Aquadro Owens will celebrate her 95th birthday. She was an active member of our congregation for many years. Currently she lives in Tennessee near family. She plays bridge and keeps busy with friends. Here are a few of her int...
On the first Sundays of April, May, and June, loose offering will be designated for the Stewards Assistance Fund. This fund allows us to care for those in our church family in practical and meaningful ways during times of need. Your generosity hel...
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Care Ministry Volunteer Potluck and for the delicious food you generously brought to share. It was a lively and joyful time together as volunteers visited, laughed, and enjoyed getting to know one anothe...
“He has told you, mortal, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8 (NRSVue) This verse from Micah offers a clear and simple picture of the life God ca...
Wade and I will be leading a Communion service at Ferris Hills on Tuesday, April 1 at 1:00 p.m. Residents who wish to attend will gather for a simple time of worship, Scripture, prayer, and Communion. Dan F. will provide guitar accompaniment...
Celebrating Shirley B Happy Birthday to Shirley, who turns 93 years young on March 8! Shirley has been part of church life for most of her life and feels especially at home here at the United Church of Canandaigua. One of her favorite hymns is “...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School also continues (it has been received well). Both groups continue to use the LIVE curriculum, with Middle School going through ...
Care Team Ministries Volunteers: This One’s for You If you serve on any Care Ministry team, this invitation is for you! You are warmly invited to a Care Team Ministries Potluck on Sunday, March 15, from 12-2 p.m. in the United Church Dinin...
As we begin a new year of service, we welcome Becky B., Margie W., Melissa W., Nancy G., and Randy B. as they join the Board of Stewards. We ask God’s blessing over all our Stewards in 2026, that their service may be guided by wisdom and compassio...
February 25 - Happy Birthday Bob Ledgerwood! Bob is a man who will be 72 years old in February. He has attended the United Church for many years, but is now mostly home bound from MS. He has many Friends from the Church and attends a weekly Bible...
Care Team Volunteers, this one’s for you! If you serve with any of our Care Ministry teams: Stewards, Care Ministers, Visitation, Meal Train, Transportation, Card Ministry, Prayer Shawl, Hospitality, or Support Team , you’re invited to a Care ...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Now that pageant practice is over, we have returned to our MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School, which supports relationship building and cultivates some Sund...
Thank You Care Ministry… Stephen and I are so touched by your gesture of support and cannot adequately express our gratitude for the many ways our church family has helped to shoulder our burdens. The love and support we’ve received have brought p...
Consider Serving on a Care Team As a new year begins, many of us pause to think about where we are and who we’re becoming. We make resolutions about health, habits, family, and time. But what if this year’s resolution looked a little different? ...
This month, we express our sincere gratitude to two Stewards who are concluding their service on the Board. Rachel has faithfully served for six years, offering steady leadership, compassion, and deep relational care to her Senior Companions. H...
Shared by Those We’ve Served Thank you Steward Friends “Thank you for many special cards and messages of encouragement that you sent me. I am blessed and enjoy each note. I am happy when I am able to see friends at church, or a visit. The Friend...
January 15 - Jim H. Jim enjoys the simple and joyful things in life - long summer walks, music, and good food. His favorite hymns include When Morning Gilds the Skies and Great Is Thy Faithfulness. Summer is his favorite season, with winter co...
Sunday school: During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in a Mission Project. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month for local food pantries. We surpassed our goal and brought in 64 ...
On Sunday, January 25, 2026, a portion of our late worship service will be dedicated to our Annual Remembrance, a meaningful tradition in which we honor those of our church family who have passed into God’s care during the past year. During thi...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue in early January, after the Christmas break. With pageant practice behind us, we are resuming our joint activity time at the beginning of the Sunday school hour. We pray this h...
We’re delighted to welcome Doris G. and Shirley B. as the newest members of our Senior Companion Circle: a ministry that celebrates those who have reached a special season of life, marked by wisdom, faith, and grace. Our Board of Stewards a...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Our students currently attend a pageant practice the first part of the Sunday school hour. High School Youth Group (The Cause) - Our program year is going along strong! Now ...
During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in our Mission Project. Each Sunday, kids were invited to bring in donations for local food pantries. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month. ...
The Meal Train Team recently gathered for a delightful time of fellowship hosted by our team coordinator, Louise VanIseghem. Louise welcomed everyone with her delicious homemade pies–baked completely from scratch–and the group enjoyed an afternoo...
This December, help spread the joy of the season by sending Christmas cards to those in our church family who would be especially blessed by a thoughtful note - those living at home or in care communities. Cards provided by the Stewards’ Ministry...
Happy Birthday, Esther P.! Born on December 14, 1930, in Hollywood, California, Esther grew up in Los Angeles and later moved to Philadelphia, where she married Claude in 1957. Their family includes Stephen, Lynne, five grandchildren, and eight ...
Our Friends & Fellowship Fall Event for those 85 and up began with a short worship service and Communion in the sanctuary, a meaningful time of praise and reflection together. We were especially grateful to Pastor Wade for sharing in this ti...
Each December, on the first Sunday of the month, our Sunday offering includes a special opportunity to give to the Stewards Assistance Fund. Any loose change received that day also goes toward this ministry. During this season of giving, your gen...
Each November, as part of our Sunday offering, we receive donations for the Stewards Assistance Fund. Any loose change given during this first Sunday of November is also directed toward the fund. These gifts provide confidential support to those i...
Marilynn F. Nov 10 Marilynn is a retired High School English Teacher. She lives at The Terraces in Newark, a lovely senior home near her nephew. As a member of our congregation she was a faithful choir member, a women’s circle member and a Bible s...
Youth Club, our Wednesday afterschool ministry for children in 2nd-8th grade, is off to a great start with 56 children registered for the program! After school, we enjoy the four parts that make up Youth Club, which are: Recreation, Bible Study, ...
While recovering from a stroke earlier this year, Lou received the exciting news that he had been selected as a candidate for induction into the Sayville High School Athlete Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. During his high school years on Long Islan...
Sunday school: Our Sunday school year is off to a great start! Children ages 3-years-old through High School are welcome to join their age/grade based class on any Sunday. We also offer classes for adults; right now we are offering small group ...
Julie Z.: “I love serving within our church family, and I thank God that He has given me the willingness and desire to do so. So I guess the super short answer to ‘Why do I serve?’ is, because He’s given me the ability and heart to do it. Beau...
This summer, we’re inviting you to join a simple act of care that can have a big impact: sending a card to one of our Senior Companions, beloved members of our church who are age 90+ or living with ongoing health concerns. A few thoughtful words ...
Happy Birthday Helen S.! Our dear friend, Helen, will be celebrating her 93rd birthday on July 16th. She has many fond memories of growing up on a farm in Daleville, Indiana. Helen and her sister drove the tractor to help her father with the crops...
Tuesday, July 29 at 6:30-8:00 p.m. We’re bringing all the Helping Hands Teams together and hope you can join us! All members of the Transportation Team, Hospitality Team, Meal Train Team, Support Team, and our Care Ministers, are invited to a sum...
Thank You! Another program year of Christian education has ended. We are grateful to the parents who supported their student’s participation, and the volunteers who poured into the next generation with love, wisdom, and care. We are coordinating a...
A couple Lamplighters ago, I reflected on the ordinary and extraordinary nature of corporate worship. The sacred and secular elements of our Sunday morning gatherings belong together, as they engage the fullness of God’s design. This month, I con...
This June and July, join us in our Senior Companion Summer Card Ministry, a simple and meaningful way to show care and connection. Our Senior Companions (previously known as “special members”) are those in our church family who are aging or facin...
Seeing one another with care-filled eyes…. In any church family, there are needs that sit quietly beneath the surface. A warm smile might hide a weary heart. A quick greeting may mask the ache of loneliness. Someone faithfully showing up each Sun...
The role of a Steward often happens quietly, behind the scenes, but the impact is deeply felt. Whether visiting a senior companion, preparing for worship, or simply offering a listening ear, Stewards help build connection and care within our churc...
Senior Companion Dorothy S. is celebrating her 91st birthday this month. Currently Dorothy is living at the Geneva Living Center but was active in the United Church for years. As a child she remembers when the Baptist Church burned. Dorothy has sp...
Summer Camp We have 22 children signed up to attend Christian summer camp. You have the opportunity to connect with one (or some) of them by writing a camp note! In the month of June, a “camp note tree” will be out in the gathering area with pre-...
Looking for a meaningful way to serve? Our Care Ministry offers several ways to share God’s love through practical support: Support Team – Coordinator: Lydia Hospitality Team – Coordinator: June Meal Train Team – Coord...
Youth Club: Our Youth Club year wrapped up in April with LOTS of fun! On April 23rd, we had first graders visit Youth Club, which also meant the middle schoolers got to go out for one last dinner at Tom Wahls!! Then on April 30th, we celebrated ou...
Over the past year, new teams within the Care Ministry have quietly stepped up to support church members in times of need. From offering rides, preparing meals, visiting with those who are homebound or recovering, helping to move furniture and sim...
We are excited to introduce six wonderful individuals who are stepping into a new role within our church family–as Care Ministers. Each of these individuals has a heart for serving others and a meaningful history of offering care, encouragement, ...
We’re delighted to welcome Jim H. as the newest member of our Senior Companion Circle–a ministry of presence and care for those who are 90 and above or living with ongoing health challenges. Through regular visits, phone calls, cards, and compassi...
Have you ever prayed for God to show you a way to serve? A way to make a real difference in someone’s life? What if the answer is as simple as changing a lightbulb, raking leaves, or picking up groceries? The needs within our church family are ma...
We want to ensure that our church family stays informed when it matters most. If you’re comfortable, we invite you to complete a Consent-to-Text Form, allowing us to send you urgent messages through Planning Center. These texts will be used only ...
“Guided by our love for the Lord and a deep commitment to serving others, the Board of Stewards seeks to extend God’s love through acts of humility, kindness, compassion, and faithfulness. Our mission is to provide companionship, support, and care...
February 25 Happy Birthday Bob Ledgerwood! Bob has been a member of the United Church for many years. He regularly attended services until his health declined. He still attends a weekly Bible Study. Bob has two daughters and eight Grand Children...
We are excited for summer activities! Youth (and their friends) are invited. If you can assist at all during these events, please let us know. These events also need registration so that we can plan accordingly. Kingdom Bound - Ray McMillen and ...
Summer Coffee & Conversation Small Groups - We continue with our weekly small groups after Sunday service during the summer. It has started with good attendance, with May 31 including 8 people in the adult group (Fellowship Room) and 6 young ...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups have concluded! We are grateful for our faithful teachers, Ray, Lauren, Sandi, and Blair (who will be teaching again next year!). During the last regular Sunday School class, the High Schoo...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our regular Sunday Morning Small Groups have concluded! A special thanks to our teachers and facilitators, including Steve, Gail, Gary, Brenda, Bob, Adam, Liz, Deb, and Nancy. NEW Summer Sunday Morning Small Groups ...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our Young Adults Group just finished a study in Revelation and a discussion on dating/marriage. May is full of reflection and celebration of a wonderful year of small grouping for the young adults! This really was...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School also continues. This time of year, we are making plans on bridging students from one ministry to another, such as inviting the...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our Young Adults Group continues in Philippians, and then onto Revelation. The Bible Study Group continues with their study on James, and then will transition to a study by NT Wright titled “Faith Working Throug...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. After both groups enjoy a joint-activity time, the Middle School group is going through various lessons in LIVE, and the High School group is going through “The Ordinary Becomes ...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our young adult/adult ministries continue as scheduled. Our Young Adults Group continue through select passages in Romans, then onto Philippians. The Bible Study Group that meets in the Downstairs Dining Hall continu...
The Women’s Retreat was a lively and well-attended day. It was a gift to see the room filled with women with tables full, conversations flowing, and laughter rising throughout the space. There was a real sense of being together in a way we don’t o...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School also continues (it has been received well). Both groups continue to use the LIVE curriculum, with Middle School going through ...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our young adult/adult ministries have begun the new year with a variety of Sunday School offerings. Our Young Adults Group continue through select passages in Romans, using the SOAP method. The Bible Study Grou...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Now that pageant practice is over, we have returned to our MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School, which supports relationship building and cultivates some Sund...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - After the Christmas break, we resume our normal Sunday school offerings. As a reminder, we have the parenting group*, which will spend time on “The Art of Parenting” curriculum from Family Life. The group designate...
Sunday school: During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in a Mission Project. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month for local food pantries. We surpassed our goal and brought in 64 ...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue in early January, after the Christmas break. With pageant practice behind us, we are resuming our joint activity time at the beginning of the Sunday school hour. We pray this h...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Our students currently attend a pageant practice the first part of the Sunday school hour. High School Youth Group (The Cause) - Our program year is going along strong! Now ...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our young adult/adult ministry has finished the 6-week small group Bible study initiative, following the 2 Peter sermon series. We ended the initiative with a large group reflection/survey. It appears most people a...
During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in our Mission Project. Each Sunday, kids were invited to bring in donations for local food pantries. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month. ...
Marilynn F. Nov 10 Marilynn is a retired High School English Teacher. She lives at The Terraces in Newark, a lovely senior home near her nephew. As a member of our congregation she was a faithful choir member, a women’s circle member and a Bible s...
Youth Club, our Wednesday afterschool ministry for children in 2nd-8th grade, is off to a great start with 56 children registered for the program! After school, we enjoy the four parts that make up Youth Club, which are: Recreation, Bible Study, ...
While recovering from a stroke earlier this year, Lou received the exciting news that he had been selected as a candidate for induction into the Sayville High School Athlete Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. During his high school years on Long Islan...
Sunday school: Our Sunday school year is off to a great start! Children ages 3-years-old through High School are welcome to join their age/grade based class on any Sunday. We also offer classes for adults; right now we are offering small group ...
Thank You! Another program year of Christian education has ended. We are grateful to the parents who supported their student’s participation, and the volunteers who poured into the next generation with love, wisdom, and care. We are coordinating a...
Adult Faith Education - Another program year of adult Sunday School has ended. We are grateful for the volunteers who spent so much time and effort into teaching and supporting others. We are coordinating a volunteer appreciation event on June 14 ...
A couple Lamplighters ago, I reflected on the ordinary and extraordinary nature of corporate worship. The sacred and secular elements of our Sunday morning gatherings belong together, as they engage the fullness of God’s design. This month, I con...
Summer Camp We have 22 children signed up to attend Christian summer camp. You have the opportunity to connect with one (or some) of them by writing a camp note! In the month of June, a “camp note tree” will be out in the gathering area with pre-...
Youth Club: Our Youth Club year wrapped up in April with LOTS of fun! On April 23rd, we had first graders visit Youth Club, which also meant the middle schoolers got to go out for one last dinner at Tom Wahls!! Then on April 30th, we celebrated ou...
Personal Reflection - Prayers in May The month of May is one of my favorite months of the year. While it often starts out cold, and possibly could even still feel a bit wintry on some days, it typically ends warm. There have been many Memorial Da...
North Carolina Missions Trip (Apr 13-18) - Several young adults and adults are also attending this Disaster Relief mission trip (to accompany the youth as mentioned above in the Youth Ministry section). Summer Outlook - Save the dates for our Adu...
I recently had the privilege of facilitating a Sunday morning worship service while Pastor Wade was out of town. This is a responsibility I am grateful to have; it is not a given that someone in my position is permitted to serve as pulpit supply. ...
Exploring Membership at Our Church Sunday, February 16 at 9:45 AM Are you interested in learning more about our church community and what it means to be a member? We warmly invite you to join us for our upcoming Exploring Membership Class, where...
Summer Coffee & Conversation Small Groups - We continue with our weekly small groups after Sunday service during the summer. It has started with good attendance, with May 31 including 8 people in the adult group (Fellowship Room) and 6 young ...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our regular Sunday Morning Small Groups have concluded! A special thanks to our teachers and facilitators, including Steve, Gail, Gary, Brenda, Bob, Adam, Liz, Deb, and Nancy. NEW Summer Sunday Morning Small Groups ...
Summer Camp: So far, we have 22 children signed up to attend Christian summer camp. You have the opportunity to connect with one (or some) of them by writing a camp note! In the month of June, “camp notes ” will be placed on the trees in the w...
The Board of Stewards welcomes Lou (Louis) V. to our Senior Companion Circle. He was born January 14, 1937 and married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn, September 19, 1959. They have three adult children, Barbara Lynn (who has gone home to be w...
Don’t you just love our church family!!! One of the great ways I got to meet and know so many of the lovely members of our church was by accepting a position on the Board of Stewards. The once/month meetings (except in summer) are joyous occasion...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our Young Adults Group just finished a study in Revelation and a discussion on dating/marriage. May is full of reflection and celebration of a wonderful year of small grouping for the young adults! This really was...
Sunday school As their Lenten offering, Sunday school children collected diapers, wipes, and formula for CareNet Canandaigua. Our goal was to collect 20 items by Easter Sunday. We exceeded our goal and collected 25 items! Thank you for you...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our Young Adults Group continues in Philippians, and then onto Revelation. The Bible Study Group continues with their study on James, and then will transition to a study by NT Wright titled “Faith Working Throug...
Youth Club On March 25th, the Youth Club elementary kids took part in a Resurrection Egg Hunt. They hunted for eggs throughout the church building with their Bible classes. Each egg they found told part of the Easter story, from Palm Sunday to...
Celebrating Shirley B Happy Birthday to Shirley, who turns 93 years young on March 8! Shirley has been part of church life for most of her life and feels especially at home here at the United Church of Canandaigua. One of her favorite hymns is “...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our young adult/adult ministries continue as scheduled. Our Young Adults Group continue through select passages in Romans, then onto Philippians. The Bible Study Group that meets in the Downstairs Dining Hall continu...
The Women’s Retreat was a lively and well-attended day. It was a gift to see the room filled with women with tables full, conversations flowing, and laughter rising throughout the space. There was a real sense of being together in a way we don’t o...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School also continues (it has been received well). Both groups continue to use the LIVE curriculum, with Middle School going through ...
Youth Club In late February, the Youth Club children filled Birthday Bags. These bags are given to families in need who use our local food pantries and have a child in their family who is celebrating a birthday. We were able to donate XX bags....
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our young adult/adult ministries have begun the new year with a variety of Sunday School offerings. Our Young Adults Group continue through select passages in Romans, using the SOAP method. The Bible Study Grou...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Now that pageant practice is over, we have returned to our MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School, which supports relationship building and cultivates some Sund...
Youth Club On January 21st, the Youth Club kids were able to invite one friend to join them at Youth Club. We had many friends come and see all the fun we have each week ~ we had a snow festival! We invite these friends to continue coming to...
Shared by Those We’ve Served Thank you Steward Friends “Thank you for many special cards and messages of encouragement that you sent me. I am blessed and enjoy each note. I am happy when I am able to see friends at church, or a visit. The Friend...
January 15 - Jim H. Jim enjoys the simple and joyful things in life - long summer walks, music, and good food. His favorite hymns include When Morning Gilds the Skies and Great Is Thy Faithfulness. Summer is his favorite season, with winter co...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - After the Christmas break, we resume our normal Sunday school offerings. As a reminder, we have the parenting group*, which will spend time on “The Art of Parenting” curriculum from Family Life. The group designate...
Sunday school: During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in a Mission Project. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month for local food pantries. We surpassed our goal and brought in 64 ...
On Sunday, January 25, 2026, a portion of our late worship service will be dedicated to our Annual Remembrance, a meaningful tradition in which we honor those of our church family who have passed into God’s care during the past year. During thi...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue in early January, after the Christmas break. With pageant practice behind us, we are resuming our joint activity time at the beginning of the Sunday school hour. We pray this h...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Our students currently attend a pageant practice the first part of the Sunday school hour. High School Youth Group (The Cause) - Our program year is going along strong! Now ...
Sunday Morning Small Groups - Our young adult/adult ministry has finished the 6-week small group Bible study initiative, following the 2 Peter sermon series. We ended the initiative with a large group reflection/survey. It appears most people a...
During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in our Mission Project. Each Sunday, kids were invited to bring in donations for local food pantries. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month. ...
The Meal Train Team recently gathered for a delightful time of fellowship hosted by our team coordinator, Louise VanIseghem. Louise welcomed everyone with her delicious homemade pies–baked completely from scratch–and the group enjoyed an afternoo...
This December, help spread the joy of the season by sending Christmas cards to those in our church family who would be especially blessed by a thoughtful note - those living at home or in care communities. Cards provided by the Stewards’ Ministry...
Happy Birthday, Esther P.! Born on December 14, 1930, in Hollywood, California, Esther grew up in Los Angeles and later moved to Philadelphia, where she married Claude in 1957. Their family includes Stephen, Lynne, five grandchildren, and eight ...
Each November, as part of our Sunday offering, we receive donations for the Stewards Assistance Fund. Any loose change given during this first Sunday of November is also directed toward the fund. These gifts provide confidential support to those i...
Marilynn F. Nov 10 Marilynn is a retired High School English Teacher. She lives at The Terraces in Newark, a lovely senior home near her nephew. As a member of our congregation she was a faithful choir member, a women’s circle member and a Bible s...
Youth Club, our Wednesday afterschool ministry for children in 2nd-8th grade, is off to a great start with 56 children registered for the program! After school, we enjoy the four parts that make up Youth Club, which are: Recreation, Bible Study, ...
While recovering from a stroke earlier this year, Lou received the exciting news that he had been selected as a candidate for induction into the Sayville High School Athlete Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. During his high school years on Long Islan...
Sunday school: Our Sunday school year is off to a great start! Children ages 3-years-old through High School are welcome to join their age/grade based class on any Sunday. We also offer classes for adults; right now we are offering small group ...
Summer Camp: This summer, 34 children from our church were sent to Christian camps with your help from our campership fund. Our mission budget provides ½ the cost for one week at a Christian camp for any child that attends Sunday School, Youth ...
Communicants Class: This past late winter/early spring, 6 youth (Adele, Elise, Jackson, Leah, Lily, and Mason) went through Communicants class with Pastor Wade. On May 18, this important faith milestone was celebrated. Some kids chose to be bapti...
Thank You! Another program year of Christian education has ended. We are grateful to the parents who supported their student’s participation, and the volunteers who poured into the next generation with love, wisdom, and care. We are coordinating a...
Adult Faith Education - Another program year of adult Sunday School has ended. We are grateful for the volunteers who spent so much time and effort into teaching and supporting others. We are coordinating a volunteer appreciation event on June 14 ...
A couple Lamplighters ago, I reflected on the ordinary and extraordinary nature of corporate worship. The sacred and secular elements of our Sunday morning gatherings belong together, as they engage the fullness of God’s design. This month, I con...
Summer Camp We have 22 children signed up to attend Christian summer camp. You have the opportunity to connect with one (or some) of them by writing a camp note! In the month of June, a “camp note tree” will be out in the gathering area with pre-...
Youth Club: Our Youth Club year wrapped up in April with LOTS of fun! On April 23rd, we had first graders visit Youth Club, which also meant the middle schoolers got to go out for one last dinner at Tom Wahls!! Then on April 30th, we celebrated ou...
Personal Reflection - Prayers in May The month of May is one of my favorite months of the year. While it often starts out cold, and possibly could even still feel a bit wintry on some days, it typically ends warm. There have been many Memorial Da...
Youth Club Update and Service Project: Our Youth Club numbers have grown. We invited friends to Youth Club in February and now we have 64 children enrolled in Youth Club. What a joy to share the love of Jesus with so many children each week! On M...
As Christians, we often are looking for ways we can be more like Jesus. We might try to be more loving, or more patient. Or, maybe we are striving to be more peaceful or to be more self-controlled. While all of those are worthwhile endeavors, I ...
North Carolina Missions Trip (Apr 13-18) - Our youth are included in an important mission trip to serve those in need down in North Carolina. Check out the Missions Page for details. Please keep our group in your prayers! Summer Outlook - Save th...
North Carolina Missions Trip (Apr 13-18) - Several young adults and adults are also attending this Disaster Relief mission trip (to accompany the youth as mentioned above in the Youth Ministry section). Summer Outlook - Save the dates for our Adu...
I recently had the privilege of facilitating a Sunday morning worship service while Pastor Wade was out of town. This is a responsibility I am grateful to have; it is not a given that someone in my position is permitted to serve as pulpit supply. ...
Join us this summer for True North VBS: Trusting Jesus in a Wild World. Our VBS is free and runs July 14-18, 2025, 9am – 12noon. We have a special kick-off on Sun., July 13, 2025 at 6:30pm. All children, ages 4 years old through those who complete...
What’s happened… We invited friends to Youth Club on February 12 since our original date for Bring a Friend night was canceled due to a snow day. We had 19 friends join the regular group of 60 kids who come to Youth Club. What a joy to share the...
I recently came across a quote that stuck with me: ‘The more we build a life we can’t wait to live, the more time and passion we find to live it.’ The author suggests that building a life you ‘can’t wait to live’ doesn’t always require adding more...
Saturday, March 22, 5:30-7:30pm Roseland Bowl, 4357 Recreation Drive, Canandaigua. $10 adults per person ($40 maximum per family) covers bowling, pizza, drinks, & dessert. Register and pay here or contact Mary Beth Fortunato. Registration d...
Small Groups: The women’s group (a 20/30-something ministry) continues to meet at our church. The Christian club at FLCC also continues, with Wendy Bacon supporting this club and keeping us informed as to how we can best support them. Other adults...
Youth Groups: Our weekly high school program (known as The Cause, an extension of our Youth Club ministry) continues with the curriculum titled “Can I Ask That? Hard Questions about God and Faith”. Our middle school program (part of our Youth Club...
This article is part three of a larger reflection on the mission of the Church in a post-Christian culture. In December, I wrote about the importance of publicly proclaiming the faith (A belief that is rooted biblically and historically). In Janua...
It’s already February, but the year is still fresh with possibilities! As is my yearly tradition, this time of year prompts me to reflect and set some intentional goals to grow, both spiritually and practically. I know many of you do the same, and...
A group of young adults (our group this year is primarily college-aged students) are preparing for the January 2025 trip to Atlanta for the Passion Conference! Please keep them in your prayers as they prepare their hearts and minds to worship the ...
Small Groups: The women’s group (a 20/30-something ministry) continues to meet at our church. The Christian club at FLCC also continues, with Wendy Bacon supporting this club and keeping us informed as to how we can best support them. Other adults...
Youth Groups: Our weekly high school program (known as The Cause, an extension of our Youth Club ministry) continues with the curriculum titled “Can I Ask That? Hard Questions about God and Faith”. Our middle school program (part of our Youth Club...
The Parent/Child Library in the upstairs chapel has been refreshed with LOTS of new books! You may borrow a book off either the display shelf or the regular book shelf. All families are welcome to use the Parent/Child library at any time. Please s...
Sunday school As their Lenten offering, Sunday school children collected diapers, wipes, and formula for CareNet Canandaigua. Our goal was to collect 20 items by Easter Sunday. We exceeded our goal and collected 25 items! Thank you for you...
On the first Sundays of April, May, and June, loose offering will be designated for the Stewards Assistance Fund. This fund allows us to care for those in our church family in practical and meaningful ways during times of need. Your generosity hel...
Youth Club On March 25th, the Youth Club elementary kids took part in a Resurrection Egg Hunt. They hunted for eggs throughout the church building with their Bible classes. Each egg they found told part of the Easter story, from Palm Sunday to...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School also continues (it has been received well). Both groups continue to use the LIVE curriculum, with Middle School going through ...
Youth Club In late February, the Youth Club children filled Birthday Bags. These bags are given to families in need who use our local food pantries and have a child in their family who is celebrating a birthday. We were able to donate XX bags....
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Now that pageant practice is over, we have returned to our MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School, which supports relationship building and cultivates some Sund...
Youth Club On January 21st, the Youth Club kids were able to invite one friend to join them at Youth Club. We had many friends come and see all the fun we have each week ~ we had a snow festival! We invite these friends to continue coming to...
Sunday school: During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in a Mission Project. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month for local food pantries. We surpassed our goal and brought in 64 ...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue in early January, after the Christmas break. With pageant practice behind us, we are resuming our joint activity time at the beginning of the Sunday school hour. We pray this h...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Our students currently attend a pageant practice the first part of the Sunday school hour. High School Youth Group (The Cause) - Our program year is going along strong! Now ...
During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in our Mission Project. Each Sunday, kids were invited to bring in donations for local food pantries. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month. ...
The Meal Train Team recently gathered for a delightful time of fellowship hosted by our team coordinator, Louise VanIseghem. Louise welcomed everyone with her delicious homemade pies–baked completely from scratch–and the group enjoyed an afternoo...
This December, help spread the joy of the season by sending Christmas cards to those in our church family who would be especially blessed by a thoughtful note - those living at home or in care communities. Cards provided by the Stewards’ Ministry...
Each December, on the first Sunday of the month, our Sunday offering includes a special opportunity to give to the Stewards Assistance Fund. Any loose change received that day also goes toward this ministry. During this season of giving, your gen...
Each November, as part of our Sunday offering, we receive donations for the Stewards Assistance Fund. Any loose change given during this first Sunday of November is also directed toward the fund. These gifts provide confidential support to those i...
Youth Club, our Wednesday afterschool ministry for children in 2nd-8th grade, is off to a great start with 56 children registered for the program! After school, we enjoy the four parts that make up Youth Club, which are: Recreation, Bible Study, ...
Sunday school: Our Sunday school year is off to a great start! Children ages 3-years-old through High School are welcome to join their age/grade based class on any Sunday. We also offer classes for adults; right now we are offering small group ...
In April of 2025, 19 individuals of all ages went to Swannanoa, NC (just east of Asheville) to assist in hurricane relief. It was seven months after Hurricane Helene devastated the area and much work still needed to be done. We worked on home repa...
Communicants Class: This past late winter/early spring, 6 youth (Adele, Elise, Jackson, Leah, Lily, and Mason) went through Communicants class with Pastor Wade. On May 18, this important faith milestone was celebrated. Some kids chose to be bapti...
Thank You! Another program year of Christian education has ended. We are grateful to the parents who supported their student’s participation, and the volunteers who poured into the next generation with love, wisdom, and care. We are coordinating a...
A couple Lamplighters ago, I reflected on the ordinary and extraordinary nature of corporate worship. The sacred and secular elements of our Sunday morning gatherings belong together, as they engage the fullness of God’s design. This month, I con...
Summer Camp We have 22 children signed up to attend Christian summer camp. You have the opportunity to connect with one (or some) of them by writing a camp note! In the month of June, a “camp note tree” will be out in the gathering area with pre-...
Youth Club: Our Youth Club year wrapped up in April with LOTS of fun! On April 23rd, we had first graders visit Youth Club, which also meant the middle schoolers got to go out for one last dinner at Tom Wahls!! Then on April 30th, we celebrated ou...
North Carolina Missions Trip (Apr 13-18) - Our youth are included in an important mission trip to serve those in need down in North Carolina. Check out the Missions Page for details. Please keep our group in your prayers! Summer Outlook - Save th...
North Carolina Missions Trip (Apr 13-18) - Several young adults and adults are also attending this Disaster Relief mission trip (to accompany the youth as mentioned above in the Youth Ministry section). Summer Outlook - Save the dates for our Adu...
As citizens of heaven, we are to live our lives in a way that is characteristic of those of the kingdom. Our humility as Christians should cause the world to pay attention to the humility of Christ. Let us strive for an honor, not understood from ...
In his first command to the Philippians, Paul calls the church to conduct themselves as worthy citizens of the gospel: united, unafraid, and expecting that suffering is part of the journey. Grounded in all they have already received in Christ, the...
Facing an uncertain future in prison, Paul models what it looks like to trust God when you don’t know how things will turn out. This sermon explores the tension Paul holds between his own desires and God’s purposes, calling the congregation to pla...
Paul writes from prison not with bitterness but with joy, because his chains have only served to advance the gospel. This sermon explores how God uses our most difficult circumstances as conductors of his power, and calls us to the same gospel-cen...
Paul’s opening to the Philippians is a letter of deep affection and confidence, not in circumstances, but in the God who finishes what he begins. This sermon launches our summer series through Philippians by grounding us in partnership, joy, and P...
On Pentecost Sunday we conclude our journey through the Gospel of John. Jesus appears to his frightened disciples on Easter evening, breathing on them and commissioning them as a sent people empowered by the Holy Spirit. John’s Pentecost story con...
On the night before his crucifixion, Jesus prays an intimate prayer that pulls together everything John has been showing us since chapter 1. We will explore how Jesus defines eternal life not as a destination but as a relationship with God that be...
In this sermon from John 14:15-21, Jesus promises his disciples on the night of his arrest that he would not leave them alone, but would send the Holy Spirit to be their permanent advocate, guide, and presence. The sermon traces the inseparable co...
This memorable passage shows the relationship between Jesus (the Son) and The Father. We also learn about who Jesus is in relation to us (The Way, The Truth, The Life). Just like how Jesus is IN The Father, and The Father is IN the Son, we are als...
In John 10:1-18 Jesus identifies himself as both the gate and the good shepherd who knows his sheep by name and lays down his life for them. He draws a sharp contrast between himself and the thieves and hired hands who exploit or abandon the flock...
After Jesus’ changed world history and resurrected from the dead, many of Jesus’ followers returned to everyday life. For some of his disciples, the resurrected Christ re-encountered them right where he first met them - fishing! At first they didn...
This sermon follows Thomas’s journey from doubt to worship as Jesus appears a second time to the disciples specifically for Thomas’s sake. The passage culminates in John’s purpose statement (20:30-31), which has been the theme verse for our entire...
On Easter Sunday we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus as told through John’s account of the empty tomb, Mary’s encounter with the risen Lord, and Jesus appearing to his disciples. The sermon walks verse by verse through John 20:1-20, highlightin...
Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to crowds waving palm branches and shouting Hosanna, but they completely misunderstood what kind of king he came to be. They wanted a warrior on a war horse who would overthrow Rome, but Jesus rode a donkey a...
Jesus delays two days before going to Lazarus, teaching us that God’s timing is perfect even when it feels painfully slow. When Jesus arrives and sees the devastation of death in this fallen world, he weeps with outrage and love before raising Laz...
In John 9, Jesus heals a man born blind, revealing himself as the light of the world through both physical and spiritual sight. As the man’s understanding grows from calling Jesus a prophet to worshiping him as Lord, the Pharisees who claim to see...
Jesus heals a man paralyzed for 38 years at the Pool of Bethesda, asking him the penetrating question: Do you want to get well? The healing on the Sabbath sparks controversy and leads Jesus to claim equality with God the Father, revealing his true...
The Gospel of John records fascinating miracles that point us to who Jesus is. This sermon explores Jesus’ miraculous healing of an official’s son, with all of its rich implications. Many today respond to these miracle accounts like they did back ...
Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at a well and offers her living water that satisfies forever. He crosses every social and religious boundary to reach someone the world had written off, revealing himself as the Messiah and Savior of the world. The se...
On Transfiguration Sunday, this sermon explores John 12:20-36, contrasting mountaintop glory with the true glory revealed through Jesus death on a cross. Using the image of a grain of wheat that must die to produce a harvest, Jesus shows that true...
This Sunday we explore Jesus’ nighttime conversation with Nicodemus about being born again. Jesus teaches that entering God’s kingdom requires a spiritual birth that only God can give, worked by the Spirit like wind and water that cleanses. The pa...
Jesus cleanses the temple with zeal, demonstrating that worship is not a transaction but an encounter with the living God. He declares that his body is the new temple where heaven and earth meet, pointing forward to his death and resurrection. Thi...
At the wedding in Cana, Jesus performs his first miracle by turning water into wine. This sign reveals his glory to the disciples and points beyond their immediate needs to his greater mission as the Messiah. We are invited to bring our concerns t...
This sermon explores Jesus’ invitation to come and see as he calls his first disciples in John 1:35-51. We’ll watch as different people respond to this invitation. Some come curious, others skeptical, but when they encounter Jesus, he reveals hims...
John the Baptist models humility as he points away from himself to Jesus. This sermon explores John’s testimony about Jesus’ identity as the Messiah, the sacrifice for sin, and the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. We are challenged to follow...
In a world drowning in words we can’t trust, John’s Gospel introduces us to the one Word that changes everything: Jesus, the eternal Word who became flesh and dwelt among us. This sermon traces John 1:1-14, showing how the Creator entered his crea...
This New Year Prayer Service will be structured around our three pastoral prayer focuses: World, Community, and Church Family, with each section expanded to allow extended time for corporate intercession and reflection. The service invites the con...
Join us for a special Christmas celebration as we gather together for one service at 11 AM. Our choir will present a beautiful cantata featuring five medleys of beloved Christmas music. This musical worship service will fill our hearts with joy as...
This sermon explores Psalm 146:5-10 and the Advent theme of longing for God to make all things right in our broken world. The message contrasts temporary human solutions with God’s eternal faithfulness and his work of caring for the vulnerable lik...
This sermon examines Psalm 72’s prayer for a ruler who embodies God’s righteousness and wisdom, pointing beyond Solomon to Christ’s eternal kingdom. The message challenges congregants to care for the afflicted and needy while anticipating Jesus’ r...
This sermon explores Psalm 122, a Song of Ascent that captures the joy of pilgrimage to Jerusalem and connects with our Advent longing for Christ’s coming. The congregation will be challenged to find joy in worship, build unified community, pray f...
In his final words before execution, Peter challenges believers to guard their spiritual inheritance against subtle deception and to actively grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. This sermon concludes our 12-week journey through 2 Peter by...
Peter’s final letter challenges believers to live with eternal perspective, recognizing that this world is temporary while God’s new creation will last forever. The passage emphasizes that Christians can actively participate in hastening Christ’s ...
This sermon explores 2 Peter 3:8-10, where Peter addresses complaints about the apparent delay in Jesus’ return. The message shows how God’s eternal perspective on time differs from our human impatience, and how His delay is actually motivated by ...
In 2 Peter 3:1-7, Peter addresses scoffers who mock the delay of Christ’s return by reminding believers that God has always kept His promises throughout history. Just as God judged the world through Noah’s flood, He will return to judge again, thi...
In a world full of confusion and false promises, Peter warns against voices that seem refreshing but leave us empty. True freedom isn’t found in self-serving desires but in knowing Christ and living as his people. Rooted in Scripture and guided by...
This sermon examines 2 Peter 2:10b-16, where Peter describes false teachers as blots and blemishes who are arrogant, greedy, and motivated by selfish gain. Using the example of Balaam, Peter shows how these teachers abandon the right path to pursu...
Peter uses three powerful Old Testament examples of fallen angels, Noah’s flood, and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah to demonstrate that God’s perfect justice and perfect mercy work together throughout history. Through these stories of both ...
This sermon explores 2 Peter 2:1-3 and Peter’s warning about false teachers who work from within the church, using the Trojan horse as an illustration of how enemies can appear as gifts while bringing destruction. The message calls believers to kn...
In this sermon from 2 Peter 1:16-21, Peter defends the reliability of apostolic testimony and Scripture against false teachers who claimed the stories about Jesus were fabricated myths. Peter provides three powerful reasons we can trust what we’ve...
Peter’s final letter emphasizes the importance of constant reminding in the Christian life, as he reflects on his coming death and his urgent desire to stir up believers’ faith while he still can. Using the metaphor of living in tents, Peter shows...
Based on 2 Peter 1:5-11, this sermon explores how Christians often possess incredible spiritual resources from God but fail to utilize them for growth and maturity. The message teaches through Peter’s ladder of spiritual growth - eight qualities t...
In this opening message from 2 Peter, we explore the apostle’s final words to the church as he faces execution, emphasizing that God’s divine power has already given us everything we need for godly living through His great and precious promises. P...
Missions Sunday is a special service where we celebrate God’s work around the world and in our own backyard through testimonies from mission experiences. Our congregation will hear firsthand accounts of God’s faithfulness and transformative work f...
This sermon on 1 Peter 5:12-14 explores how Christians are called to stand firm in God’s grace while living as exiles in a culture that no longer centers faith. The message challenges congregants to examine whether they will maintain their commitm...
This sermon from 1 Peter 5:1-11 explores how God calls all believers to live with humility and servant hearts, whether in church leadership or daily Christian living. Peter encourages Christians facing persecution and difficulty to cast their anxi...
This sermon explores 1 Peter 4:12-19, where Peter teaches that suffering for our faith should not surprise us but be seen as a blessing that connects us to Christ’s suffering and glory. Peter challenges believers to reject prosperity gospel thinki...
This sermon examines how early Christians chose faithful living over cultural expectations, refusing to participate in pagan festivals despite social pressure from family and friends. Just as those believers faced ridicule for their convictions, m...
This sermon explores the challenging passage of 1 Peter 3:18-22, focusing on how Christ’s death and resurrection demonstrate His complete victory over all spiritual powers, including the mysterious proclamation to imprisoned spirits from Noah’s ti...
In this sermon on 1 Peter 3:8-17, we explore how Christians are called to live authentically as exiles in a rapidly changing culture where faith is no longer the norm. As followers of Jesus, we are challenged to build genuine community marked by u...
The sermon explores how Peter instructs Christians to navigate relationships with those in authority through humble submission and respectful conduct, drawing from 1 Peter 3:1-7. This teaching reveals how Christians can influence their world throu...
In this sermon, we explore how Christians today are increasingly finding themselves as foreigners and exiles in a culture that no longer understands Christian values, much like the early church Peter addressed in his first epistle. Drawing from 1 ...
In this sermon from 1 Peter 2:4-10, we explore how Christians are living stones being built into God’s spiritual house with Christ as the cornerstone — rejected by the world but precious to believers. Just as ancient stone structures have stood fo...
In this sermon from 1 Peter 1:13-2:3, we explore how Christians can live holy lives while feeling like exiles in a changing culture. Peter calls believers to stay alert and sober-minded, setting their hope on God’s grace while resisting conformity...
This sermon examines 1 Peter’s paradoxical description of believers as both chosen by God yet exiles in the world, explaining how this ancient letter speaks directly to Christians experiencing cultural marginalization today. Peter’s teaching revea...
This Pentecost sermon explores Psalm 104:24-35, revealing how God’s Spirit both creates and renews all life, drawing parallels between the breath that sustains creation and the Holy Spirit that empowered the early church. We will be invited to ide...
This sermon explores Psalm 97’s powerful vision of God’s sovereign rule over creation, where even mountains melt like wax in His presence. The message challenges us to examine the modern idols competing for our trust, to release our anxiety about ...
This sermon explores Psalm 67’s call for God’s face to shine upon us so that all peoples may come to know and praise Him. It challenges the congregation to be reflections of God’s light and fairness in their daily lives, carrying His presence into...
Exploring Psalm 148’s call for all creation—from the highest heavens to the deepest oceans—to praise God, this sermon examines how we find our unique voice in creation’s symphony of praise as those who have not only been created but also redeemed ...
This Sunday we explore Psalm 23’s journey from the Shepherd’s provision to God’s eternal dwelling, showing how God meets us in both green pastures and dark valleys. Our Easter psalm series reveals God’s constant presence through every season of li...
Using the Acronym ACT: Appreciate Psalm 30’s place in history as a song of temple dedication. Consider how it reflects David’s life, Israel’s relationship with God, and our redemption in Christ (as temples ourselves / the church). Thank God for he...
With both pastors away, one of our church elders, Jim Boseck, shared a message on living a life focused on praising God. He reminded us that praise isn’t just for Sundays - it should be a daily response to God’s goodness. Even in hard times, we’re...
Drawing from Psalm 118, this Easter sermon explores how God turns rejection into redemption through Christ’s resurrection, focusing on the powerful image of the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone of our faith. The sermon weaves together ancie...
Through an examination of Jesus’ anguished prayer in Gethsemane (Luke 22:39-49), this sermon explores the tension between cultural messages of self-fulfillment and Jesus’ example of submitting to the Father’s will, challenging us to pray against t...
In John 12, Mary’s lavish gift of perfume to anoint Jesus demonstrates what extravagant worship looks like when we withhold nothing from Christ. Through her example, we explore how true devotion often defies conventional wisdom and involves sacrif...
Through three parables in Luke 15, Jesus reveals God’s passionate pursuit of lost people, showing us a Father who eagerly runs to embrace those who have strayed, challenging us to join in His mission of seeking and celebrating the found.
Through Jesus’s teaching on tragic events and the parable of the fig tree, this sermon explores how we often misunderstand God’s judgment and calls us away from religious finger-pointing toward authentic repentance and a life-giving relationship w...
In this sermon on Luke 13:31-35, we explore Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem through the metaphor of a mother hen yearning to gather her chicks, revealing both God’s protective love for His people and the tragedy of their rejection, while ultimately p...
This sermon from Luke 4:1-13 explores Jesus’s forty-day wilderness temptations and how he remained faithful through the power of the Spirit and Scripture. By examining the three specific temptations - using power for personal comfort, taking short...
After Peter declares Jesus is the Messiah, and after Jesus prophecies his death and resurrection, Jesus brings a few disciples onto a mountain and appears to them in glorious light, in a well-known scene often called The Transfiguration. In our se...
Jesus’s radical command to love our enemies goes far beyond natural human inclinations, as demonstrated powerfully in his own love for Judas and his death on the cross for sinners. In Luke 6:27-38, Jesus calls his followers to respond to hatred wi...
Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, particularly as recorded in Luke 6, radically redefines what it means to be blessed by God, challenging both ancient and modern assumptions about spiritual success. Rather than providing a checklist of behaviors to foll...
This sermon explores Jesus’ calling of his first disciples in Luke 5:1-11, focusing particularly on Simon Peter’s journey from a fisherman to a follower of Christ after witnessing a miraculous catch of fish. The sermon emphasizes the distinction b...
In this sermon about Jesus’s return to Nazareth in Luke 4, we see how his hometown’s initial warm reception quickly turned violent when he challenged their lack of faith by comparing them unfavorably to two Gentiles - the widow of Zarephath and Na...
This sermon reflects on Jesus’ bold proclamation in his hometown of Nazareth, declaring himself the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy in Luke 4:14-21. It challenges listeners to move beyond familiarity and embrace Jesus’ authority, recognizing his ...
This sermon explores Jesus’ first miracle at the Cana wedding feast, explaining how He transformed water into wine not merely to solve a practical problem, but to reveal His identity as the Messiah and point to God’s greater work of redemption. Us...
We are called to embrace humility and dependence on God as modeled by John the Baptist and Jesus during His baptism, recognizing our roles in God’s greater plan and our need for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. By following their example, we to...
This sermon explores the celebration of Epiphany, emphasizing its roots in the early church as a continuation of the Christmas season, culminating on January 6. Drawing from the story of the Magi in Matthew 2, it highlights the significance of the...
This prayer service brings the church together to pray for each ministry area, from family and missions to worship and church leadership. Through a mix of Scripture, hymns, and focused prayers, we’re asking for God’s guidance and strength for ever...
We are called to embrace the disruptive presence of God in our lives as Mary did, willingly submitting ourselves to His purposes despite personal inconvenience or societal judgment. We should actively respond to God’s call with obedience and joy, ...
We are called to rejoice in all circumstances, trusting that our joy is rooted not in our present situations but in our eternal relationship with God. God instructs us to respond to life’s challenges with gentleness and to place our anxieties in H...
The sermon on Philippians 1:3-11, given during Advent, focuses on Paul’s sense of urgency and expectation as he anticipates the return of Christ. The message emphasizes Paul’s confidence that God, who began a good work in the believers at Philippi...
This sermon, focused on the first Sunday of Advent, emphasizes the importance of living with urgency and expectation as we await both the celebration of Christ’s birth and His promised return. Through exploring Luke 21:25-36, the message encourage...
The sermon explores the biblical concept of gratitude as we approach Thanksgiving. Reflecting on Psalm 107 and the story of the ten lepers in Luke 17, the message emphasizes the importance of giving thanks for God’s unfailing love and wonderful de...
As we explore Matthew 22:1-14, we examine the parable of the wedding banquet, illustrating the Kingdom of Heaven through God’s open invitation to all, both good and bad. While many initially reject the invitation, the king (representing God) invit...
This sermon reflects on the closing scene of Genesis, focusing on the deaths of Jacob and Joseph and the continuation of God’s promise to their descendants. Despite their deaths, the story of God’s deliverance and grace is not over, as Joseph expr...
This sermon explores Genesis 49, where Jacob offers blessings and prophecies for each of his sons before his death. These words reflect the character and actions of Jacob’s sons and point forward to the future of Israel’s tribes, with a particular...
This sermon explores Genesis 48, where Jacob, defying cultural expectations, blesses his younger grandson Ephraim over the firstborn Manasseh. This act highlights how God’s blessings often come in surprising ways that defy human plans, encouraging...
We are excited for summer activities! Youth (and their friends) are invited. If you can assist at all during these events, please let us know. These events also need registration so that we can plan accordingly. Kingdom Bound - Ray McMillen and ...
Summer in Canandaigua is a glorious season. Sunny skies and warmer weather. Sure, Wegmans is a bit more crowded, but the seasonal energy in and around town is palpable. So what do you have planned? Will you spend more time on the lake? Perhaps a h...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups have concluded! We are grateful for our faithful teachers, Ray, Lauren, Sandi, and Blair (who will be teaching again next year!). During the last regular Sunday School class, the High Schoo...
Why are you alive? I am not asking for a biological description of your existence. Nor am I asking for an explanation of how your parents found each other. But the question is more about what is central to your being. What do you live for each day...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School also continues. This time of year, we are making plans on bridging students from one ministry to another, such as inviting the...
May is a month of endings and beginnings. In some ways, we transition to summer during this month. While the city school system is still in session, the weather begins to warm and many of the church programs begin to shift. On Memorial Day weekend...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. After both groups enjoy a joint-activity time, the Middle School group is going through various lessons in LIVE, and the High School group is going through “The Ordinary Becomes ...
Most of us grew up thinking of Easter as a single Sunday. We dress up, we sing the hymns, we hear about the empty tomb, and then we move on. Yet Christians have long understood Easter, not as one day, but as a season. The Easter season stretches ...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School groups continue. MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School also continues (it has been received well). Both groups continue to use the LIVE curriculum, with Middle School going through ...
In January, we explored the calling of the disciples. Do you remember Andrew? When he first encountered Jesus, he couldn’t keep the news to himself. He ran to find his brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah!” And then he brought hi...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Now that pageant practice is over, we have returned to our MS/HS activity time at the beginning of Sunday School, which supports relationship building and cultivates some Sund...
This February, we continue to journey through John’s Gospel. We will explore four very different encounters with Jesus. In each of these meetings the people involved are forever changed. As we experience these stories, they continue to speak to us...
Sunday school: During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in a Mission Project. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month for local food pantries. We surpassed our goal and brought in 64 ...
On Sunday, January 25, 2026, a portion of our late worship service will be dedicated to our Annual Remembrance, a meaningful tradition in which we honor those of our church family who have passed into God’s care during the past year. During thi...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue in early January, after the Christmas break. With pageant practice behind us, we are resuming our joint activity time at the beginning of the Sunday school hour. We pray this h...
As we step into the new year, we find ourselves embarking on a journey together. We actually begin this journey on January 4, still in the season of Christmas, as we open John’s Gospel with the words “In the beginning was the Word.” Then on Januar...
Sunday School - Our Middle School and High School classes continue. Our students currently attend a pageant practice the first part of the Sunday school hour. High School Youth Group (The Cause) - Our program year is going along strong! Now ...
During the month of November, our Sunday school kids were invited to take part in our Mission Project. Each Sunday, kids were invited to bring in donations for local food pantries. Our goal was to bring in 50 items over the course of the month. ...
Advent is a season of anticipation. We light candles, count down the days, and prepare our hearts to celebrate Jesus’ birth. But Advent is about more than remembering what happened in Bethlehem two thousand years ago. It’s about learning to live w...
As we move through the Advent season and into the Christmas celebrations, please note some important changes to our worship schedule. December 21: Christmas Cantata We will gather for one combined service at 11 AM on December 21 as our choir pre...
Our Friends & Fellowship Fall Event for those 85 and up began with a short worship service and Communion in the sanctuary, a meaningful time of praise and reflection together. We were especially grateful to Pastor Wade for sharing in this ti...
Each December, on the first Sunday of the month, our Sunday offering includes a special opportunity to give to the Stewards Assistance Fund. Any loose change received that day also goes toward this ministry. During this season of giving, your gen...
Do you remember waiting for Christmas morning as a child? I had an Advent calendar with a piece of candy on each day, counting down to Christmas. The anticipation was exciting but also agonizing. My parents weren’t being cruel by making me wait. T...
Youth Club, our Wednesday afterschool ministry for children in 2nd-8th grade, is off to a great start with 56 children registered for the program! After school, we enjoy the four parts that make up Youth Club, which are: Recreation, Bible Study, ...
Do you remember the story of the Trojan horse? The ancient Greeks couldn’t conquer Troy by force, so they built a wooden horse, filled it with soldiers, and left it as a “gift.” The Trojans, thinking they’d won, brought their enemy’s weapon inside...
Sunday school: Our Sunday school year is off to a great start! Children ages 3-years-old through High School are welcome to join their age/grade based class on any Sunday. We also offer classes for adults; right now we are offering small group ...
What would you say if you knew you only had a few weeks left to live? The apostle Peter faced exactly this situation when he wrote his second letter to the early church. Knowing his execution under Emperor Nero was approaching, Peter penned what w...
As we continue our journey through 1 Peter this summer, we encounter one of Scripture’s most compelling paradoxes: we are simultaneously exiles and chosen children of God. This tension isn’t something to resolve but rather to embrace as we learn w...
Thank You! Another program year of Christian education has ended. We are grateful to the parents who supported their student’s participation, and the volunteers who poured into the next generation with love, wisdom, and care. We are coordinating a...
A couple Lamplighters ago, I reflected on the ordinary and extraordinary nature of corporate worship. The sacred and secular elements of our Sunday morning gatherings belong together, as they engage the fullness of God’s design. This month, I con...
Summer Camp We have 22 children signed up to attend Christian summer camp. You have the opportunity to connect with one (or some) of them by writing a camp note! In the month of June, a “camp note tree” will be out in the gathering area with pre-...
June arrives with summer warmth and brings a transition in our church life. We’ll be concluding our Psalms series and continuing with our combined 9:30 AM worship service that began on May 25th. These combined services offer a wonderful opportunit...
Beginning May 25, we will transition to our summer worship schedule with one unified service at 9:30 AM. This schedule will remain in place through Labor Day weekend. Our summer schedule provides us with a wonderful opportunity to worship togethe...
Youth Club: Our Youth Club year wrapped up in April with LOTS of fun! On April 23rd, we had first graders visit Youth Club, which also meant the middle schoolers got to go out for one last dinner at Tom Wahls!! Then on April 30th, we celebrated ou...
As we continue our journey through the Psalms this month, we move deeper into these ancient songs that have guided God’s people for generations. The Psalms offer us a language for approaching God with every emotion and circumstance we face. They t...
As we journey toward Easter morning, there’s a growing sense of anticipation. We move from the shadow of the cross into the brilliant light of the empty tomb. This Easter begins a worship series that will take us all the way to Pentecost, focusing...
North Carolina Missions Trip (Apr 13-18) - Several young adults and adults are also attending this Disaster Relief mission trip (to accompany the youth as mentioned above in the Youth Ministry section). Summer Outlook - Save the dates for our Adu...
I recently had the privilege of facilitating a Sunday morning worship service while Pastor Wade was out of town. This is a responsibility I am grateful to have; it is not a given that someone in my position is permitted to serve as pulpit supply. ...
Lent invites us into a journey that mirrors Christ’s own path. As we enter this season of reflection, our Scripture readings illuminate a narrative that moves from the Father affirming the Son through wilderness testing to the ultimate expression ...
As a church family, we have established a tradition of celebrating the season of Epiphany, which commences on January 6 and continues until Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent. This season invites us to reflect on the ministry of Jesus as the light t...
December 01 - Living with Urgency and Expectation: Preparing for Christ’s Return Primary Reading: Luke 21:25-36 Additional Readings: Psalm 25:1-10, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 December 08 - Expectant Hearts: Waiting on God Primary Rea...
