Today In Worship

Sunday, August 23, 2026
SERIES: Start With Hello
Liturgist: Jennifer Humphrey, Director of Children’s Ministry
Preacher: Rev. Dr. John Regan, Executive Minister
We Share Our Gifts

We Hear the Word Proclaimed‍ ‍CLICK HERE for today’s Scripture

Reflection
Start with Hello, but then What?

This passage from Shannan Martin’s book Start with Hello is one of John’s favorite insights from the book:

“Common ground isn’t about agreement. It’s about recognizing our shared humanity. Being willing to work for small slivers of mutual understanding is a mark of emotional maturity. It’s not as elusive as we might think, if we’re willing to wade in and listen to one another… I am convinced our path forward is paved in concrete and asphalt. It is the sidewalks, the back roads, the drive-thru lines, and the grocery aisles that will help us course-correct. Welcoming nuance with a soft heart and open arms is a skill on the decline. But we are up for the challenge because we refuse to believe that a healthier, kinder world is only a false hope or fantasy.”

Hello is a beginning. What comes next asks a little more of us: curiosity, listening, and a willingness to stay in relationship long enough to discover where our lives might overlap. Our calling is to keep looking for that common ground. It is not always possible. We won’t always get it right. But here’s the thing; God isn’t measuring how good we are at this or comparing us to others. The real question is simply: Are we willing to try?

We Gather at the Lord’s Table
Jesus didn’t put any rules around coming to the table, so neither do we. All are loved and embraced here and all are welcome at this table of Love. Our communion bread is gluten free. We come forward to the table to receive bread and cup at 9AM, we pass the bread and cup at 11AM. Please place your empty cup in the rack on the pew back. If you are worshipping from home, we invite you to find bread and juice or other elements to use as we share this feast.