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The Advent season begins with these classic words, “Come, thou long-expected Jesus, born to set thy people free.” However, if you are completely honest, what would your answer be to the question, “What are you expecting from Jesus?”  Do you really expect Jesus to change your life... Read More →

Advent and Christmas. We’ll return to our studies on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020. We’ve found that with each study, we gain new insights and understanding of the Scriptures within a loving, caring, fellowship. Our studies have helped us to continue to grow spiritually and deepen our... Read More →

A lot of work has been happening this fall as plans move forward for our building renovations. In September we hired Lovely Lane member Amber Mulnik as the Project Manager for church building renovations. She represents the church at weekly and daily meetings with the architects... Read More →

Family Promise of Linn County: Teaming with the faith community, Family Promise provides a warm and welcoming place for families in need to call home while they get back on their feet and into stable housing. Host Congregations provide overnight lodging, meals, and hospitality.... Read More →

We are down to the final weeks of this campaign, and I want to thank you for all of your support and donations! I am 99% of the way to 100 boxes!! It’s not too late, however, if you still want to give. There are a few specific items needed: spiral notebooks or composition... Read More →

I always enjoy visiting Adler Planetarium in Chicago. Each visit reaffirms the vastness of our mighty universe. Whether it’s presentations about the search for new solar systems or observations about the planets we know about, I am constantly filled with awe and wonder. Just when... Read More →

Philosopher Jacob Needleman writes, “There is a struggle that is more interesting than pleasure or ego satisfaction . . . . There is something far more interesting than what money can buy.” The matter at hand is a movement from greed to generosity. The Bible calls greed, avarice,... Read More →

Kennedy High School is working with HACAP to support students. You can help by donating nonperishable food items and toiletries to be placed in the tub(s) in our church narthex. These items will be delivered to Kennedy to help students in need. Those using the Pantry will have to... Read More →

World Religions Theologian Paul Tillich once described religion as “ultimate concern.”  This description was made without reference to belief in a higher power or belief in the sacred.  Truth is, every religion is different.  Some religions focus on multiple gods and some do not... Read More →

During seminary I served two small churches in the Chicago area.  Following my time with these congregations, the churches merged with another church in the area.  The three churches then sold their respective buildings and built a brand new structure to house the new... Read More →