October 2019

October 6, 2019 – Jonathan Chute “Enough”

Sermon: sermon

In our gospel text Jesus tells the disciples that about the need for them to forgive each other – as often as seven times a day. They respond with shock and horror at the difficulty of his request. If that’s what’s required to be a disciple, they will need more faith! But Jesus says that they don’t need “more” faith. They simply need to exercise the faith that they already have. It is, or ought to be, enough. The text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Enough,” is Luke 17:3-10.

Scripture: scripture

October 13, 2019 – Dale Gehr “A Love Story”

Sermon: sermon

United Methodist Churches have a tradition that at least once a year worship is led entirely by church members (lay people) and not by the pastors (clergy). This tradition recognizes that every Christian shares in ministry; ministry is not the provence of only a chosen few. RHUMC will observe “Laity Sunday” on October 13. Our Lay Leader, Dale Gehr will present a sermon based on John 3:16-21, Matthew 5:43-48, and Matthew 22:37-40. These passages emphasize God’s love for the world, and Christ’s clear teaching that we are called to love God, love our neighbor, and even love our enemies. Dale’s sermon title is, “A Love Story.”

Scripture: scripture

October 20, 2019 – Martha Rowlett “Joy in the Field of Dreams”

Sermon: sermon

This Sunday we welcome back the Rev. Dr. Martha Rowlett, our Senior Pastor from 1988-98. Under Martha’s leadership the congregation grew in health and strength, and built our welcoming and beautiful sanctuary. This month marks the 25th anniversary of the completion of that project, and the mission that continues to grow in the years since. Martha lives in Asheville, North Carolina, where she remains active in church and community. She is the author of several books on prayer, and copies of her most recent work are available in the church office.

Scripture: scripture

October 27, 2019 – Jonathan Chute “Fixing the Story” 

Sermon: sermon

This week’s gospel offers an unusual perspective on what it means to be righteous, what it means to be redeemed. Jesus tells the story of two men who go to the temple to pray. One of them does everything he’s supposed to do, every day. Not only does he follow the rules, but he goes well beyond what the law requires. The other is a complete and utter failure. He knows that he is a sinner. But when the two men come to God to pray, the results may surprise you. Luke 18:9-14 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Fixing the Story.” 

Scripture: scripture