"No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here."
First Congregational United Church of Christ is an Open & Affirming community
SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30 AM
NURSERY AND SUNDAY SCHOOL 10:30 AM
This Sunday we have two scripture passages, Luke 18:1-10 and Genesis 32:22-31, that teach us that faith means persistence, tenacity, and not losing heart. We accomplish this through prayer. The title of the sermon comes from the late Fred Craddock, professor of preaching: “Faith with Bloody Knuckles.” Jesus presents us with a parable about a widow who keeps pestering an unjust judge until he grants her request. One of those “how much more will God respond” parables of contrast. Still, we all know the reality of knocking until our knuckles bleed and still no answer. But sometimes like Jacob we wrestle with God(?) all night and walk away with a blessing and a new name. What is the Christian life? It’s wrestling with God! I like that. So, this Sunday no easy answers or “prosperity gospel” but true to life persistence, tenacity, and faith.
Last century there was a tavern being built in a town that had previously been dry. In opposition to the tavern, a group of Christians gathered for an all-night prayer meeting and asked God to intervene. Lightning struck the tavern and it burned to the ground. The tavern owner brought a lawsuit against the Christians, holding them responsible. The Christians hired an attorney and denied responsibility. In the courtroom, the judge responded to this unusual scenario: “No matter how this case comes out, one thing is clear. The tavern owner believes in prayer and the Christians do not!”
Brian, Thomas, and Joyful Noise provide music; Jean is liturgist; and JJ and Ziggy explain prayer.
First Congregational Church of Prescott, United Church of Christ, is an Open and Affirming congregation. We include all persons without regard to age, race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender identity, faith, marital status, or personal ability. We welcome all to share the celebrations and challenges of our congregation. No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here.
Our past worship services are now on the website! Click on the "past worship services" link on the opening page of the website and you will find all the services back to January of 2020! Thanks to Jim for letting us use his YouTube channel for easy access.
