Good Shepherd Sunday

May 1, 2020 Guest User

This is a communion service, so please prepare bread or crackers and juice or wine so that you are ready to take part in communion.

The sermon and children’s sermon are both posted below. Scroll to the bottom for sermon notes.

Pastor Cress delivers a message for the week of May 3, 2020.

Stay home, stay healthy and let’s flatten the curve! Sermon videos will be posted online for 10:30 a.m. on Sundays as we worship together from home.

give online

stay connected

Children's sermon with Sarah Craven

SERMON SNAPSHOT: Sunday, May 3, 2020

Dear Friends in Christ –

The 23rd Psalm is a perennial favorite. Why? I don’t think we necessarily need a reason, but, of course, there are many. So I looked into it – did some exegesis, some study, of the Psalms. They are a collection of lyrics – songs to be sung in the sundry moments of life, sung in sorrow, sung in anger, sung in despair, sung in praise and sung in worship.

But here’s something unusual: the vast majority of the time we prefer more modern translations of the Bible, and yet we cling to a 400 year old translation of Psalm 23. Why is this? One commentator posed the question this way: Could it be that elevated language, words with some lineage and dignity, are appropriate to the grandeur, the majesty, the immeasurable grace of God who is indeed our shepherd?

I know that’s a big part of it, but I also know there are nuances to the Psalm we’ve missed. So let’s take a deep breath and lean back, lean into something nurturing, comforting, familiar in these times of surprise and disruption. And remember this: “I shall not want.”

It's communion this Sunday. Tune in and be fed.

Best love in Christ –

Interested in becoming a member of Second Presbyterian? Email Cress for more information.

CLICK HERE TO LET US KNOW IF THERE ARE SPECIFIC WAYS WE CAN BE IN PRAYER FOR OR OF SERVICE TO YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES DURING THIS CHALLENGING TIME.

On Sunday May 10th, our congregation will join other Presbyterian churches throughout South Carolina in the Mother's Day Offering in support of Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina. The mission of PCSC is simply this: "We are a compassionate C… — On Sunday May 10th, our congregation will join other Presbyterian churches throughout South Carolina in the Mother's Day Offering in support of Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina. The mission of PCSC is simply this: *"We are a compassionate Christian ministry dedicated to enriching the quality of life for seniors of all faiths."*
This offering stands as a witness that Presbyterian churches and their members are not content merely with founding Presbyterian Communities. Rather, they continue to embrace this ministry to older adults as their own and witness to God's love for its residents.
On Mother's Day, our congregation will continue this tradition of caring through the Mother's Day Offering. Please give generously. Your gift directly touches the lives of those needing financial assistance, assuring them that they can continue to call Presbyterian Communities " home."

We are praying for Puerto Rico as they face yet another 5.0 earthquake and a number of significant aftershocks.

Presbyteries Disaster Assistance is already in contact with the leadership of the Southwest Presbytery and has offered assistance.

In consultation with the Stated Clerk of Presbytery and in light of the current mandated guidelines, we are unable to hold a congregational meeting at this time. The Session has set the Congregational Meeting for May 31st.

The bell tower was struck by lightning the afternoon of Sunday, April 19. The Steeple Fund campaign for the current renovation continues and, considering the damage from the fire, the need to raise money is now even greater. Help us bring the Secon… — The bell tower was struck by lightning the afternoon of Sunday, April 19. The Steeple Fund campaign for the current renovation continues and, considering the damage from the fire, the need to raise money is now even greater.

Help us bring the Second Church tower back to its former glory, so it can continue to be a beacon for Charleston. Donate today to the Steeple Fund.

**Bell tower progress updates (and lots of photos) can be found here.**

A benefit telethon with iconic local and national artists on May 8 will raise funds for Homeless to Hope Fund to impact lowcountry area homeless. More here → — A benefit telethon with iconic local and national artists on May 8 will raise funds for Homeless to Hope Fund to impact lowcountry area homeless.
More here →

MUSC's Psychiatry Unit has reached out offering ways to help patients feel less isolated. Because of all of the extra measures we have had to take to ensure our patients stay safe with this pandemic, that means many of them are not able to receive a… — **MUSC's Psychiatry Unit has reached out offering ways to help patients feel less isolated.**
Because of all of the extra measures we have had to take to ensure our patients stay safe with this pandemic, that means many of them are not able to receive any visitors at all, and now they feel more isolated than ever.
***Would you be willing to send something to a patient?*** *Something small like a word puzzle book, cards, coloring book, or even a teddy bear can go a long way to just simply let them know someone out there is thinking about them.*
**Simply send something via their** **Amazon Registry**.
If you would prefer to send us something directly, please send to:
MUSC Institute of Psychiatry, Jessica Carter
67 President St MSC 861
Charleston, SC 29425

Source: sermons

Homeless to Hope Benefit Telethon

April 30, 2020 Guest User

A benefit telethon with iconic local and national artists on May 8 will raise funds for Homeless to Hope Fund to impact lowcountry area homeless.

The Homeless to Hope Fund was founded in 2016 to assist homeless individuals and families in their transition to permanent housing through a network of service providers in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and North Charleston. The fund helps cover certain financial expenses that could be obstacles to securing housing. Additional funding supports the Navigation Center, Charleston’s only day resource center to provide support and resources for people currently living unsheltered.

The Mayors’ Commission on Homelessness and Affordable Housing established the Homeless to Hope Benefit Concert to provide annual community support for the Homeless to Hope Fund. Because this year’s concert is not possible due to coronavirus containment efforts, the event will be held as a multi-media virtual telethon to raise funds and awareness to enable more people to transition into housing during this critical time.

To donate to the Homeless to Hope Fund, please contribute online at homelesstohopefund.org/donate or text H2HOPE to 44-321. MORE INFO: Visit the Homeless to Hope Fund website at homelesstohopefund.org and spread the news socially by visiting our Facebook page at facebook.com/HomelessToHopeFund or the Facebook Event Page: facebook.com/events/2084835638329262.

Mother's Day Offering

April 29, 2020 Guest User

On Sunday May 10th, our congregation will join other Presbyterian churches throughout South Carolina in the Mother's Day Offering in support of Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina. The mission of PCSC is simply this: "We are a compassionate Christian ministry dedicated to enriching the quality of life for seniors of all faiths.”

give here

More than six decades ago, Presbyterian churches in South Carolina responded to the need of its older members for retirement living by opening the Presbyterian Home in Summerville. Today, Presbyterian Communities operates six retirement communities across the state that more than 950 seniors call "home."

Living at a Presbyterian Community, residents find fellowship, intellectual stimulation, opportunities for physical fitness, and spiritual growth. They also find a caring staff that provides assistance when health needs arise.

It is inevitable that, after years of living with Presbyterian Communities, some residents will find their financial resources dwindling. What happens then? Thankfully, the Presbyterian churches in this state continue to stand by those residents.

One of the most visible and important ways we do this is through the the Mother's Day Offering. Collected each year, this offering is used solely to provide charitable care to those who have outlived their life's savings.

This offering stands as a witness that Presbyterian churches and their members are not content merely with founding Presbyterian Communities. Rather, they continue to embrace this ministry to older adults as their own and witness to God's love for its residents.

On Mother's Day, May 10th, our congregation will continue this tradition of caring through the Mother's Day Offering. Please give generously. Your gift directly touches the lives of those needing financial assistance, assuring them that they can continue to call Presbyterian Communities " home."

What a week!

April 24, 2020 Guest User

The sermon and children’s sermon are now both posted below. Scroll to the bottom for sermon notes.

Pastor Cress Darwin delivers a message for the week of April 26, 2020.

Stay home, stay healthy and let’s flatten the curve! Sermon videos will be posted online for 10:30 a.m. on Sundays as we worship together from home.

give online

stay connected

Children’s sermon with Sarah Craven

SERMON SNAPSHOT: Sunday, April 26, 2020

Dear Friends in Christ –

What a week! Lightning strikes the Bell Tower, the death rate from the coronavirus tops 50,000 in our country, Charleston was pummeled with 5 inches of rain last night and electricity was just reconnected to the church campus five days after the lightning strike. And yet…yes, Sunday’s comin’:)

What curious times we live in.

Our text this Sunday has the elements of a great tragedy. Plot and character are the two most important elements, according to Aristotle. What could be more compelling than a small town carpenter’s seemingly illegitimate son claiming divinity, wrenching ‘disciples’ from their homes and family obligations; offering redemption and restoration to an oppressed and cowered people; surrendering to arrest, torture, humiliation and execution, only to rise! And to encounter, incognito, two heart-crushed devotees heading home in utter defeat, reporting the sad tale, “…but we had hoped.” (Luke 24:13-35).

Remember, dear friends, we’ve read the end of the book. But for those who could not, or who have not read the Bible, can we find hope as well in this scripture for our inspiration these days?

Answer: Yes!

Let’s gather again online this Sunday at 10:30. We’ll discover together God’s revealed message for this day, for these days, of natural assault and confusing rhetoric. We’ll be reminded that the God who lives is our paraclete, our advocate, our inspiration and companion on the road back to Emmaus- back to work, or back to home-tutoring 3rd grade math.

With great anticipation in these challenging days –

Interested in becoming a member of Second Presbyterian? Email Cress for more information.

CLICK HERE TO LET US KNOW IF THERE ARE SPECIFIC WAYS WE CAN BE IN PRAYER FOR OR OF SERVICE TO YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES DURING THIS CHALLENGING TIME.

Source: sermons

Steeple Project

April 24, 2020 Guest User

Second Presbyterian Church is the PC(USA) "Historical Site #1," the designated oldest recognized Presbyterian building in America! But this church is not a monument, it's a mission. We are a congregation known for its friendliness and its heart for service to ALL God's people. We are committed to serving our still-creating God in ways that are yet to be imagined! We hope you feel called to contribute toward the preservation of Second Presbyterian Church and the many ways in which God is working through this particular place.

Be a part of the legacy of Second Presbyterian and GIVE TODAY. Contribute toward the fund via the GIVE button above (choose Bell Tower Steeple Fund from the drop down ‘fund’ options), in the offering plate, or deliver your donations to the church office.

As of November 12, 2019, there was $68,525 pledged toward The Steeple Fund, at which time estimates were submitted and work to repaint the bell tower began in February 2020. Cleaning revealed that, in some areas, the old stucco has de-laminated from the bricks underneath. While there is no safety issue, this loose stucco does need to be removed and replaced. A lightning strike caused a fire in the top of the bell tower April 19, 2020, the full scope of which is still being assessed.

The Steeple Fund campaign for the current renovation continues and, considering the damage from the fire, the need to raise money is now even greater. Help us bring the Second Church tower back to its former glory, so it can continue to be a beacon for Charleston.

Check on the progress of the Steeple Project here.

give now

Source: /give

Help MUSC Psychiatric patients feel less isolated

April 23, 2020 Guest User

MUSC's Psychiatry Unit has reached out offering ways to help patients feel less isolated.

Because of all of the extra measures to ensure that patients stay safe with this pandemic, many of them are not able to receive any visitors at all and now they feel more isolated than ever.

Would you be willing to send something to a patient? Something small like a word puzzle book, cards, coloring book, or even a teddy bear can go a long way to just simply let them know someone out there is thinking about them.

Simply send something via their Amazon Registry.
If you would prefer to send us something directly, please send to:
MUSC Institute of Psychiatry, Jessica Carter
67 President St MSC 861
Charleston, SC 29425

Lightning strike and fire in the bell tower

April 20, 2020 Guest User

Dear Second Family -

Here’s the news. There was a lightning strike on the tip-top of the bell tower yesterday afternoon. The fire department and the police were right there. Luckily the damage was confined to the top of the tower. There was no damage to the sanctuary and no one injured. Praise God!

This is another moment in the history of our grand church from which we will emerge stronger to witness to and serve our God. Today we begin the task of assessing the damage. Thank you to so many who have texted, called, emailed or stopped by offering help. We will keep you aware of the challenges we face. Let’s stay close, in prayer and with gratitude -

Best love in Christ -

The bell tower is currently being restored. Progress updates (and lots of photos) can be found here.

donate to the steeple fund

Our Facebook page is updated often! Find us on Facebook as "Second Pres Charleston" and make sure you 'Like' and choose 'See First' under 'Following' to be alerted with church information.

Octave of Easter message

April 16, 2020 Guest User

This Sunday we continue in the Gospel of John and discover much more about the disciple Thomas than we may have known. In the ‘safe house’ to which the disciples have retreated, we witness a cowardly crew come to believe. We witness hearts surrendered and a man’s doubt transformed.

Powerful! Invite someone to watch with you – at a safe distance, of course.

The sermon and children’s sermon are posted below.

Pastor Cress Darwin delivers a message for the week of April 19, 2020.

Stay home, stay healthy and let’s flatten the curve! Sermon videos will be posted online for 10:30 a.m. on Sundays as we worship together from home.

give online

stay connected

Children’s sermon with Sarah Craven .

SERMON SNAPSHOT: Sunday, April 19, 2020

Dear Friends in Christ –

I’m missing you, especially last evening around 5:00, for some reason. The day was gray and cooler than it has been in a while. The buildings here on the Second Presbyterian campus are empty. The pivot to recovery is unknown.

Our work, both individually and together, continues. But words of encouragement can become annoying in their repetition.

I know this is not forever. (I say this and the next phrase to bubble up in my brain is: ‘I know my redeemer liveth!’ Thank you, Jesus)

We will get through this best together. Yes - stronger, quicker, better together! (Yeah, yeah, yeah.)

Even as we deny ourselves and are denied the embrace we so long for – for the right reasons, out of prudence and love – in moments of grief, confusion, accomplishment, perseverance; a hug would be nice.

In these moments my gratitude for you, for my family, for the work we get to do and which will be revealed – gratitude wells inside me that we are in fact, in truth and in reality, not a people ‘without hope’.

Our hope is, was, and shall be, in the one who is raised. The one who breathed fresh breath of the Spirit into his disheartened disciples – Jesus, the Christ.

So, I feel better. I pray God’s peace and God’s strength for us all.

In (yes) anticipation –

Interested in becoming a member of Second Presbyterian? Email Cress for more information.

The Annual Meeting of the Congregation and the Corporation of the Second Presbyterian Church will be held Sunday, April 26th at 11:15 a.m. online to elect the Elder Class of 2021 & Class of 2023, the Deacon Class of 2023, and the Nominating Team… — The Annual Meeting of the Congregation and the Corporation of the Second Presbyterian Church will be held Sunday, April 26th at 11:15 a.m. online to elect the Elder Class of 2021 & Class of 2023, the Deacon Class of 2023, and the Nominating Team members for 2022-2023. Online invitation to follow.

For over 70 years, One Great Hour of Sharing has provided Presbyterians a way to share God’s love with our neighbors in need around the world. The three programs supported by One Great Hour of Sharing - Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, the Presbyt… — For over 70 years, One Great Hour of Sharing has provided Presbyterians a way to share God’s love with our neighbors in need around the world.

The three programs supported by One Great Hour of Sharing - Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, the Presbyterian Hunger Program, and Self-Development of People - all work in different ways to serve individuals and communities in need. From initial disaster response to ongoing community development, their work fits together to provide people with safety, sustenance, and hope.

***It's not too late to contribute to the good work funded by One Great Hour of Sharing!*** ***Give online*** ***now or mail a check marked 'OGHS' to the church.***

Source: sermons

Easter Sunday Festival Service Online

April 12, 2020 Guest User

Stripped of traditions and rituals, this Easter service may remind us that the promise at the heart of the gospel is that God is both with us and for us at all times and through all conditions. In sorrow or joy triumph of tragedy, in gain our loss, in peace or fear, in scarcity or plenty, in sickness or in health. God is present. And because of Christ’s love, all harsh realities of this life do not have the last word. God’s light is more powerful than darkness. God’s love is stronger than hate. God prevails over all things- even death. So this day, even this day, we may rejoice because Christ is risen!

He is risen!

He is risen indeed!

The sermon and children’s sermon videos are posted below.

Pastor Cress Darwin delivers a message for Easter Sunday 2020.

Stay home, stay healthy and let’s flatten the curve! Sermon videos will be posted online for 10:30 a.m. on Sundays as we worship together from home.

give online

HOLY WEEK AT HOME

Sarah Craven delivers a children’s message for Easter Sunday 2020.

SERMON SNAPSHOT: Sunday, April 12, 2020

Dr. Bill Brown of Columbia Seminary sent a lovely commentary on these times – “The Life-giving Emptiness of Easter.” The truth is that the narrative we celebrate today, and on which we hang our very lives, “began with an ‘empty tomb’ and three fearful women – a tomb emptied of death.”

Brown reminds us that we’ve shuttered our sacred spaces “not in despair, but in testimony that lives are being saved in doing so.”

We are not abandoning the gospel, but bearing witness to the fact that Christ is not constricted nor contained within the walls, but lives in the hearts of believers. And Christ calls us to join him in meeting folks where they are.

In Christ -

CLICK HERE TO LET US KNOW IF THERE ARE SPECIFIC WAYS WE CAN BE IN PRAYER FOR OR OF SERVICE TO YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES DURING THIS CHALLENGING TIME.

Source: sermons

Holy Week: Easter Saturday

April 11, 2020 Guest User

HOLY WEEK AT HOME

In an act of faith and solidarity, we are called to spend Holy Week without the usual presence of one another. Each day throughout this week, though, we can continue to come together in spirit with these daily devotionals as we are called to gather, reflect, pray, and act.As always, reach out! To each other, to your neighbors and friends. Gather your family around the table for a time of reflection or join with others on FaceTime or Zoom to do the same. Allow this experience to transform you in Christ and embolden you to express the love of God in new ways in this new time. While we are, in fact, all in this together, we specifically come together in manifest spirit to gather, reflect, pray, and act, as led by Christ.

GATHER

Have a member of your household lead or, if alone, read it as a silent meditation. If you connect via social media, have two or three people share the reading.

LEADER: The season of Lent can be barren and lonely,

ALL: but God goes with us through the wild wilderness.

LEADER: Our lives are lived in seasons of transitions and transformations.

ALL: Lent is a time to ponder God's providence and persistence.

LEADER: Together, we seek fruitfulness, for it has been promised to us;

ALL: the barrenness of Lent will give way to the fruitfulness of Easter.

LEADER: In this season of penitence and pondering, let us gather before God.

ALL: We come, as a family, to wait for the Lord with strength and courage.

inspired by Luke 13:6-9

REFLECT

Read the scripture below as a silent meditation, have a member of your household read aloud, or have two or three people share the reading.

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Matthew 22:37-40 NIV

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 28:19 ESV

PRAY

Holy Saturday has always been a strange day for me. The Messiah is in the grave, those who were closest to him where scattered, scared, and hiding. We know the ending, but they were stuck in the pain, in the darkness. Nowadays, however, in America, many community Easter egg hunts are held without much time and thought given to the actual day. I’m not saying we are doing it wrong, I’m just observing, but I can’t help but look at the similarities of this particular day and that first Holy Saturday. We are separated, many of us are scared and we don’t know the future. But, in fact, we do! The amazing thing about being a Christian is we know what is ahead. We know the ending.

Through scripture we are told that the narrow road is hard, there will be trials and tribulation… there is sickness, pain and hardship for those who follow. But then, we know that the King is to come again. We know the ending because it is written. John tells us, "But these are written that you might believe that Jesus is the messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.” We read the book of Revelation and we know that our King is returning to take back the earth, to bring life and to crush death. We know that there is another Easter morning coming, we don’t need to be afraid because we walk with Christ.

So, as we observe another Holy Saturday, let us rejoice that we are not in the darkness, we know all the joy that is to come!!

Let us pray for those who do not know Jesus; those who are living in fear and don’t know the saving grace that is offered through Christ. Pray for those who are separated, scared and feel as though they are without hope. Pray that we all might be lights in the world, light that can shine into the hurt, into the pain, into the darkness.

ACT

Consider these ideas to extend acts of service, mercy, or grace to those around you and for your own well-being.

Find rays of hope in your days. It's not healthy to force yourself to feel happy or ignore difficult feelings and it's okay to feel a whole host of emotions, and Jesus meets you there. But, you can practice gratitude and find comfort by focusing on the good. We can go about our days, good or bad, with gratitude for the moments of beauty and comfort and light that can serve as a reminder that the sad times, the lonely days, the dark moments are a part of a cycle and there will be relief soon. Today is Easter Saturday, but Sunday's coming.
Join us for online church in the morning to celebrate Easter Sunday together at 10:30 a.m. Whether you choose to show up to watch in your Sunday best or your pajamas, find joy in it! We are glad we get to come together in spirit with you to celebrate the great joy and hope of Easter Sunday.
Enjoy the Virtual Easter Egg Hunt this afternoon by searching #onebasket2020 on Facebook or Instagram.

Holy Week: Silence

April 10, 2020 Guest User

HOLY WEEK AT HOME

In an act of faith and solidarity, we are called to spend Holy Week without the usual presence of one another. Each day throughout this week, though, we can continue to come together in spirit with these daily devotionals as we are called to gather, reflect, pray, and act.As always, reach out! To each other, to your neighbors and friends. Gather your family around the table for a time of reflection or join with others on FaceTime or Zoom to do the same. Allow this experience to transform you in Christ and embolden you to express the love of God in new ways in this new time. While we are, in fact, all in this together, we specifically come together in manifest spirit to gather, reflect, pray, and act, as led by Christ.

GATHER

Have a member of your household lead or, if alone, read it as a silent meditation. If you connect via social media, have two or three people share the reading.

LEADER: On this day we gather to remember Jesus our Savior who loved us and gave himself for us. Let us draw near in full assurance of God's endless love and mercy.

ALL: We give our thanks and praise to Jesus Christ who carries our sorrows, heals our wounds, and redeems us from sin and death.

written by Marlene Kropf, in Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross: Good Friday Service

REFLECT

Read the scripture below as a silent meditation, have a member of your household read aloud, or have two or three people share the reading.

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Matthew 6:6 NIV

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.

Romans 8:26 NIV

PRAY

Silence. There is so little of it in these times. Children have been raised with so much noise around them that many feel more comfortable with music playing while they study because they can’t handle the quiet. We have added more and more noise and distraction into our lives that when we are placed in silence we tend to become uncomfortable.

I often think of Jesus during his 40 days in the desert. As a mom, the thought of 40 days of silence sounds miraculous, but could I really be silent? We all have things in our lives that pull at us and keep us from any form of silence. But, in reality, if we take more than a few minutes of silence, we start to stress and get anxious, left wandering through our thoughts certain that there must be something more that we have to get done.

Throughout scripture we are called to become silent in the presence of our God. It’s in the silence that we can really hear, can really sense, can really connect with our God. Scripture even tells us that if we are unable to pray in that silence the Holy Spirit will intercede in our prayers for us.

I think of Daniel, praying every day in secret. I think of Esther who was forced to keep her religion hidden and silent. And I think of Jesus who begged his disciples to be quiet and pray in the garden with Him. In the silence, in the still, we can connect on a deeper level than we could ever imagine

Pray that the Lord brings times of silence today. Time to reflect on the immeasurable sacrifice He made on the cross. And when we receive those times of silence may we stop, may we listen, and may we endure the silence for something more. Our world has had to slow down, take this time to slow down too. Press into the Lord. Pray for his path, His wisdom, His grace. Pray that you will be uplifted throughout this time and that silence may become more sacred to you.

ACT

Consider these ideas to extend acts of service, mercy, or grace to those around you and for your own well-being.

Are you slowing down enough to allow for growth and transformation? Make a time for meditation each day. Start with a deep breath.
Join us for the virtual Good Friday Tenebrae service tonight at 7:00 p.m. This somber Good Friday service is characterized by gradually diminishing light to symbolize the darkness of Jesus' death and the hopelessness in a world without God.
Gather seven candles today so that you can take part in the dimming light of the service this evening by extinguishing a candle at the end of each prayer.
Tag your #onebasket2020 photos for the Virtual Easter Egg Hunt tomorrow. Re-read the Easter story then post a picture that includes an Easter egg along with what Easter means to you and the hashtag. Tag #2ndpc too or email your picture to Jordyn to be included in the hunt.
NOTE: Make sure we can see your posts! An individual Facebook posts can be set to public. On Instagram, your account must be public for us to see your photo. And, as always, use discretion on social media and supervise your children as you would with any other time on the internet.

Virtual Good Friday Service

April 10, 2020 Guest User

Good Friday Service of Tenebrae

Tenebrae (Latin for "darkness") is an ancient Christian tradition that takes place in the days leading up to Easter. This somber Good Friday service is characterized by gradually diminishing light to symbolize the darkness of Jesus' death and the hopelessness in a world without God. In years past, the service has concluded in darkness and worshipers then leave in silence to ponder the impact of Christ's death and await the coming resurrection and the festival service of Easter morning.

This year we gather in the shadows, as it were, surrounded by the darkness of COVID-19. Despite this virus' impact on our lives, our families and our communities, we are children, not of darkness, but of the light. There is a light that saves us and we can come together in spirit to ponder the impacts of a world gone dark knowing that the light will return- that Sunday's coming!

If you'd like, you can recreate aspects of a Tenebrae service at home by arranging 7 candles to be extinguished one at a time as the service progresses. If you don't have candles, you can begin with all the lights on so that the room is as bright as possible and you can dim the lights after each prayer so that you are left to end the service in darkness.

The video will be posted here Friday, April 10th at 7:00 p.m.

A Good Friday message from Pastor Cress Darwin. Special thanks to Dr. Julia Harlow, Lee Lingle, Clarissa Rider and Joel Dettweiler for contributing haunting choral music (at safe social distance).

give online

HOLY WEEK AT HOME

“Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." - Luke 23:24

PRAYER

Dear Lord, though we would that you have forgiven us, this truth needs to penetrate our hearts in new ways. Help us to know with fresh conviction that we are fully and finally forgiven, not because of anything we have done, but because of what you have done for us. May we live today as forgiven people, opening our hearts to you, choosing not to sin because the power of sin has been broken. Amen.

“Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” - Luke 23:43

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, how we wonder at your grace and mercy! When we cry out to you, you hear us. When we ask you to remember us when you come into your kingdom, you offer the promise of paradise. Your mercy exceeds anything we might imagine. It embraces us, encourages us, it heals us. O Lord, though our situation differs from the criminal who cried out to you, we are so like him – in need of mercy. Today we live, trusting you and you alone. Our lives, now and in the world to come, are in your hands. And so we pray: Jesus, remember us when you come into your kingdom! Jesus, remember us today as we seek to live within your kingdom! Amen.

“Woman, here is your son.” - Mark 19:26

PRAYER

Lord, the presence of your mother at the cross breaks our hearts. You are dying for the love of your created, yet you are also fully human -- a son with a mother. Thank you for loving us to your death. Because you have given us all that you are, we give you our praise, our love, our hearts . . . all that we are. All praise be to you, dear Jesus, fully God and fully human, Savior of the world. Amen.

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” - Mark 15:34

PRAYER

Lord Jesus God, though we can never fully grasp the horror of your isolation, every time we read this phrase we are overtaken with gratitude. We thank you for how you loved us. What can we do but to offer ourselves to you in praise and in gratitude? Thank you for loving us so.

“I am thirsty.” John 19:28

PRAYER

Lord God, we acknowledge the searing thirst you endured as you assumed our humanity that you might take away our sin. Sweet Jesus, we, too, are thirsty for the new wine of your kingdom to flood our souls that we might be refreshed by your living water. We yearn for your Spirit to fill us once again. Amen.

“It is finished.” - John 19:30

PRAYER

Jesus, God - You did it. You finished that for which you had been sent, faithful in life, faithful in death. You accomplished that which no one else could, you bore the sin of the world upon your sinless shoulders. All praise be to you, gracious Lord. All praise be to you, dear Jesus, for redeeming us! Alleluia! Amen.

“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Luke 23:46

PRAYER

Gracious Lord, even as you once entrusted your Spirit into the hands of the Father, so we give our lives to you. We trust you and you alone. We submit to your sovereignty and will live for your glory. Because of your love we no longer despair. In your strength and compassion we live in hope. Amen.

CLICK HERE TO LET US KNOW IF THERE ARE SPECIFIC WAYS WE CAN BE IN PRAYER FOR OR OF SERVICE TO YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES DURING THIS CHALLENGING TIME.

Stay home, stay healthy and let’s flatten the curve! Services will be posted at the time we would usually gather so that we can come together in spirit as much as possible.

Source: sermons

Holy Week: Breaking bread together

April 9, 2020 Guest User

HOLY WEEK AT HOME

In an act of faith and solidarity, we are called to spend Holy Week without the usual presence of one another. Each day throughout this week, though, we can continue to come together in spirit with these daily devotionals as we are called to gather, reflect, pray, and act.As always, reach out! To each other, to your neighbors and friends. Gather your family around the table for a time of reflection or join with others on FaceTime or Zoom to do the same. Allow this experience to transform you in Christ and embolden you to express the love of God in new ways in this new time. While we are, in fact, all in this together, we specifically come together in manifest spirit to gather, reflect, pray, and act, as led by Christ.

GATHER

Have a member of your household lead or, if alone, read it as a silent meditation. If you connect via social media, have two or three people share the reading.

ALL: God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, not counting their sins against them, and has commissioned us with the message of reconciliation.

LEADER: Praise the Lord.

ALL: The Lord’s name be praised.

REFLECT

Read the scripture below as a silent meditation, have a member of your household read aloud, or have two or three people share the reading.

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.

Acts 2:42-45 NIV

PRAY

Breaking bread together:

As Jesus gathered for the Passover meal, the night before he was handed over to the Roman authorities, he was with friends and family breaking bread and sharing their lives. Meals are very important in the Bible. In fact, there are many stories and passages throughout the Bible that talk about people sitting down to break bread together and, as in the case of Zacchaeus, it was an honor to have Jesus breaking bread with you. It was more than just eating a meal, it was taking a break from the day, taking a break from whatever was occupying them to spend time together, truly listening to one another. This is part of a reason we have Second Sunday Lunches: we sit together and share a meal as a family.

This time of shelter-in-place has given us time with the people we live with and a chance pause and connect with them. As we begin to come out of this pandemic, I pray that we start reaching out to others in the church to sit and break bread together. I don’t think there are ever coincidences in the Bible; everything Jesus did led up to the night of Passover. That was a time to look back over where the Lord had brought them from and a time to break bread together. The Lord is moving and will be bringing us out of this. May we find time to break bread together, to remember where we came from and who we are as a community.

Pray that the Lord blesses us in the times that we are able to break bread together, whether now in our homes or in the future as a community. Pray that we all be nourished during this time- physically, mentally, and, especially, spiritually. Pray that we continue to find ways to connect with one another and the whole body of Christ.

ACT

Consider these ideas to extend acts of service, mercy, or grace to those around you and for your own well-being.

Reach out to someone from church that you've been missing or someone you had been meaning to get to know better. Let them know you've been thinking of them and, while it might be too early to make plans yet, you can look forward to the opportunity to break bread together in the future! Or get creative and schedule a FaceTime coffee date or something in the meantime. Click here to look up someone in the Member Directory.
Join us for the virtual Maundy Thursday service tonight at 7:00 p.m. It's a communion service, so have your crackers or bread and juice or wine ready.
Join the Virtual Easter Egg Hunt with a photo submission! Take time to read the Easter story then post a picture that includes an Easter egg along with what Easter means to you and the hashtag #onebasket2020 (and a second tag of #2ndpc) before noon on Saturday. Download an egg coloring sheet here if you’d like.
You can officially search for eggs by the hashtags after noon on Saturday. You can look through the photos that have already been submitted by searching the #onebasket2020 hashtag on Facebook.
NOTE: Make sure we can see your posts! An individual Facebook posts can be set to public. On Instagram, your account must be public for us to see your photo. And, as always, use discretion on social media and supervise your children as you would with any other time on the internet.

Virtual Maundy Thursday Service

April 9, 2020 Guest User

Join us for our annual Maundy Thursday Community Communion Service. While we miss being together and the community atmosphere of having the participation of multiple churches and choirs, we are excited to invite you to join us for this special service virtually.

This is a communion service, so please prepare bread or crackers and juice or wine so that you are ready to take part in communion.

A Maundy Thursday message delivered by Pastor Cress Darwin. Special thanks to Dr. Julia Harlow, Lee Lingle, Clarissa Rider and Joel Dettweiler for contributing haunting choral music for this Holy Week (at safe social distance) and to Ken Carrington who has produced all of our online worship services with help from SaSa Darwin.

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HOLY WEEK AT HOME

CALL TO WORSHIP

All: God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, not counting their sins against them, and has commissioned us with the message of reconciliation.

Leader: Praise the Lord.

People: The Lord’s name be praised.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION & DECLARATION OF PARDON

O God of mercy: you sent Jesus Christ to save lost people. Judge us with love, and lift the burden of our sins. We confess that we are twisted by pride. We see ourselves pure when we are stained and great when we are small. We have failed in love, forgotten to be just, and have turned away from your truth. Have mercy, O God, and forgive our sin, for the sake of Jesus your Son, our Savior. Amen. Almighty God: You love all Your children and do not hate them for their sins. Help us to face up to ourselves, admit we are in the wrong, and reach with confidence for your mercy; in Jesus Christ the Lord.