Rev. Venida explores the significance of renewing our vows in pursuit of a more just, generous and inclusive world. Drawing on Jesus’ parable and his practice of reshaping culture through a radically open table, she examines this nation’s plans to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence even as civil rights are being rolled back, histories erased, and power being used against the most vulnerable.
Read MoreSERMON CONTENT WARNING
This week’s sermon contains themes of sexual violence, rape, and other sensitive topics which may elicit deep emotions and is not suitable for children.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month and Rev. Venida will raise awareness and promote prevention by preaching on this very sensitive and rarely discussed topic. Using Tamar’s victimization in 2 Samuel 13 as a point of reference, Rev. Venida explores how the church can help cultivate renewal as a response to the individual and collective devastation resulting from violence against the body.
Mary Obasi talks about confronting the climate crisis by starting from a place of love.
Read MoreRev. Venida culminates the These Bodies Sermon Series with a message on Body Image. With so many brand and beauty standards attempting to influence how we present ourselves, as well as expectations surrounding how our bodies should behave, Rev. Venida challenges us to renew our minds and to be transformed to the extent that we see ourselves as the beloved of God.
Read MoreThe renewal of all things.
What's the first thing you think of when you think of God? Is that word "pleasure?" Yeah, probably not. But what if that's exactly who God is? God is a pleasure hound. God is not angry, wrathful, filled with rage, but rather taking pleasure in the way that we work to bring restoration to all things and to tell stories of renewal. Pastor Jonathan Williams talks of restoration and renewal in this first sermon of our "Fruits of the Spirit" series.
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