Staff Video Archive
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Let Anyone Who Has Ears Hear from Pastor John H. Stanley
Today Pastor John Stanley talks to us about the importance of listening. John explains how, often, we find it difficult to listen and really hear. On top of that, John remarks, we are bombarded with thousands of notifications and messages each day, making it even more difficult to truly listen. To combat this, John suggests taking time to pause, slow down, pay attention, and thoughtfully listen to what other people have to say, remembering Christ's words, "Let anyone who has ears hear." |
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In Different Times and Places from Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore
On this first day of fall, Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore talks to us about being present over being perfect. Lauren explains how, in the writings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, we are told what a joy it is to be able to worship God at different times and in different places. Today we see God continuing to work and create no matter where we are! Lauren closes by encouraging us to take a moment to be quiet in a reverent place with God. |
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In God's Time from Pastor John H. Stanley
As we prepare for the weekend, Pastor John Stanley speaks to us about God's timing. In Ecclesiastes, John explains, we are told that there is a time for everything and that all is made perfect in God's own time. During this season of our lives, many of us find ourselves feeling stressed and anxious. Yet this scripture encourages us to wait patiently, putting our faith in God that everything will happen at the right time, God's time. |
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Give Thanks to the Lord with Matt Smith
Our Thrive worship Leader, Matt Smith, greets us this week and discusses why it is so important to give thanks to the Lord all year round. In this video, Matt shares not only his music, but a few of the things he is grateful for - especially noting those involved with the outdoor worship service. Don't forget! This week our outdoor worship service will begin meeting at 9:00 a.m. We look forward to worshipping God together! |
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The Big Questions from Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore
Today Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore provides us with some updates about our confirmation program and discusses some of the big questions we ask of our students when they are confirmed. Lauren explains that these questions help us to shape our identity as Christians, and teach our children to know and love Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Be sure to join us on October 4, either in person or via Livestream, as we recognize last year's confirmands in worship! |
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Using Your God Given Talents from Pastor John H. Stanley
Today Pastor John H. Stanley touches on using your God given abilities to further God's kingdom. John explains that each of us is unique - there has never been another you! Your talents are such a special gift, and God has a plan for how your gifts can be used. John encourages us to pray for God's will to be done in our lives, that we might be used for God's purpose. |
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I Lift My Eyes to the Hills from Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore
Today Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore shares Psalm 121 and reflects on its message. Lauren explains that God does not simply watch or observe us, but that he takes care of us in every situation. God knows all and protects us through all. Lauren reminds us that when we feel worried to place our hope in God, and he will give us peace. |
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The Peace of God with Donna Kerns
In this week's staff update, we hear from our receptionist, Donna Kerns! Donna gives us a closer look at recent additions to the reception area and shares that periodicals and other items are available in the vestibule outside the office entrance. We encourage you to stop by to pick up the Prayer and Care list, Sunday School books, or other items! Donna closes by sharing a passage from Philippians 4:4-7. |
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The Patience of Job from Pastor John Stanley
Today Pastor John Stanley discusses the importance of patience and that well-known figure from the bible, Job. There are many times in our lives where we find it hard to be patient, especially in the midst of turmoil. John urges us to remember Job, and practice patience, much like he did, in our own lives. |
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An Interview with Rev. Fred Lyon
Today Pastor John Stanley and Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore introduce us to Rev. Fred Lyon, our new Interim Senior Minister! Watch the video below to learn a little more about Fred, including his background within the Presbyterian Church, about his family, and what he likes to do in his free time. |
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Pray Without Ceasing from Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore
The secret is out! Lauren announces that we will be welcoming our new Interim Senior Minister, Rev. Fred Lyon, who will arrive on Tuesday, September, 1! We are so excited to welcome Fred into the life and ministry of First Presbyterian Church! While this is definitely an exciting time, Lauren admits that she has found herself feeling anxious about all that is happening. She is reminded, as are we, that there is no better answer to worry than prayer! |
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Serving Christ by Serving Others from Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore
Thursday greetings! Today Rev. Lauren Sease Vanacore reminds us of the congregational meeting called for this Sunday, August 23, immediately following worship. During this meeting, we will elect our officers for the class of 2023. What a privilege it is to elect men and women to serve the church! Lauren explains that our Elders and Deacons serve Christ by serving the church, but they do not do it alone. We are all uniquely called by God to serve his mission in the world. Lauren hopes that through this, you might discern your call to ministry. |
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Haste Makes Waste from Pastor John H. Stanley
Today John checks in with those participating in the 31-day Proverbs challenge before discussing today's reading and how haste can affect our lives in a negative way. John explains that many of us might be wondering, "why hasn't God done something about this yet?" We want God to act, and we want God to act now. However, John assures us that, just as we are told in Psalm 37, we must wait patiently on God. |
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There is No Limit from Pastor John H. Stanley
In today's video update, Pastor John H. Stanley shares a quote from Ronald Reagan which says, "there is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he does not mind who gets the credit." John explains that we find no better example of this type of attitude in the Bible than that of Andrew. One of Jesus' disciples, Andrew had a way of leading people to Jesus, often letting others go before himself. Andrew's example teaches us that we need not feel resentment or jealousy because God has a special purpose for each of us. |
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