First Olympia Sermons

On The Neighborhood

Sun, 31 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from the team FUMCO sent to the Inhabit Conference who all began our new Pentecost worship series, “Spirit Poured Out” by preaching on Joel 2: 23-29. In their message, several members of the group shared what they learned in Chicago.

Pentecost

Sun, 24 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Pentecost Sunday, we heard a sermon from our District Superintendent Rev Kathleen Weber who concluded our collaborative worship series, “Witness To The Risen Christ” by preaching on Acts 2: 1-21 & 1 Corinthians 12: 4-13. In her message, Rev Kathleen celebrated ways in which the South Sound Co-op has honored the wonder of the first Pentecost and invited us to imagine the beautiful work we'll continue to do together into the future.

Breakfast On The Beach

Sun, 10 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Kelly who joined us from Shelton UMC and continued our collaborative worship series, “Witness To The Risen Christ” by preaching on John 21: 1-14. In his message, Pastor Kelly told the story of Jesus serving his disciples breakfast on the beach and participating in unorthodox communion.

Get Up And Go

Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our collaborative worship series, “Witness To The Risen Christ” by preaching on Acts 9: 1-19. In her message, Pastor Alexa spoke on Saul's conversion and the call to "get up and go" live the lives of resurrection God wants for us.

The Walk To Emmaus

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Kellen who joined us from Tumwater UMC and continued our collaborative worship series, “Witness To The Risen Christ” by preaching on Luke 24: 13-25. In his message, Pastor Kellen told the story of Jesus appearing to his disciples on the Walk to Emmaus and invited us to consider clearing the "spiritual cataracts" from our eyes.

Is Seeing Believing?

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Allison who joined us from St Andrews UMC in Lacey and continued our collaborative worship series, “Witness To The Risen Christ” by preaching on John 20: 26-31. In her message, Pastor Allison told the story of Thomas, the disciples leaving the upper room, and how they worked better together.

Jesus Stood Among Them

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from all FOUR Co-op churches from Pastors Alexa, Kelly, Kellen, and Allison who began our new collaborative worship series, “Witness To The Risen Christ” by preaching on John 20: 19-23. In their message, our pastors each reflected on a related aspect of the same passage.

Eternal King

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Palm Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Lenten worship series: Salvation Is Here by preaching on 2 Samuel 7: 8-17 & Mark 11: 1-11. In her message, Pastor Alexa connected Jesus's triumphant entrance into Jerusalem with God's Covenant with David.

At One

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Lenten worship series: Salvation Is Here by preaching on Jeremiah 31:31-34 & Hebrews 5:5-10. In her message, Pastor Alexa spoke on God's invitation to share the dream of being "at one" together.

Aid Rendered

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Brittney Gilleland, our Director of Children’s Ministry, who continued our Lenten worship series: Salvation Is Here by preaching on Numbers 21: 4-9, Ephesians 2: 1-10, & John 3: 14-15. In her message, Miss Brittney spoke on the aid God rendered when the Hebrew people were lost in the wilderness through Moses and the bronze serpent.

Framework

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Lenten worship series: Salvation Is Here by preaching on Exodus 20: 1-17 & 1 Corinthians 1: 18-25. In her message, Pastor Alexa described how God gave the Ten Commandments as specific boundaries to structure a re-forming community.

Preemptive Faith

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our new Lenten worship series: Salvation Is Here by preaching on Genesis 17: 1-7, 15-16 & Romans 4: 13-25. In her message, Pastor Heather connected the fall of the Berlin Wall with Abraham's covenant with God and the theme of building trust.

Ceasefire

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who began our new Lenten worship series: Salvation Is Here by preaching on Genesis 9: 8-17 & 1 Peter 3: 18-22. In her message, Pastor Alexa told the story of Noah's Ark through the lens of salvation and invited us to fight against the despair of nihilism.

Seers Of God

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who concluded our Epiphany series: Come And See by preaching on Exodus 24: 12-18 & Matthew 17: 1-9. In her message, Pastor Alexa reflected on the rainbow light of God's identity and how shining our selves through this lens reveals more and more of who we are.

Salt & Light

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Epiphany series: Come And See by preaching on Isaiah 58: 1-9a & Matthew 5: 13-20. In her message, Pastor Alexa gave an example of a Japanese-American who resisted the powers of empire in the 1940's and invited us to act as "salt and light" in our unjust world today.

Blessed

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Epiphany series: Come And See by preaching on Micah 6: 1-8 & Matthew 5: 1-12. In her message, Pastor Heather explained the beatitudes and described the ways we're called to be "blessings" in the world.

Prophet

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Epiphany series: Come And See by preaching on Isaiah 9: 1-4 & Matthew 4: 12-23. In her message, Pastor Heather explained our place in the lineage of Biblical prophets and invited us to speak truth in the modern age.

Chosen One

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Epiphany series: Come And See by preaching on Isaiah 49: 1-7 & John 1: 29-42. In her message, Pastor Alexa mused on the saying "wherever you go, there you are" and how it connects to the theme of being chosen.

Baptized and Beloved

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who began our new Epiphany series: Come And See by preaching on Isaiah 42: 1-9 & Matthew 3: 13-17. In her message, Pastor Heather reminded us that "Beloved" is where we begin and invited us to see baptism as a claiming of God's love rather than its source.

Flight To Egypt

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who transitioned out of our Advent series: Mother and Child into Epiphany by preaching on Matthew 2: 1-18. In her message, Pastor Alexa invited us to interpret the story of the wise one's gifts in the context of archetypal stories and to draw parallels to our present political context.

Christmas Eve

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

On this Holy Night of Christmas Eve, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Advent series: Mother and Child by preaching on Isaiah 52: 7-10 & Matthew 1: 18-25. In her message, Pastor Heather reflected on the "imperfect" moments of parenting and how Mary's call to raise God's son and our call to follow him were never promises full of "unicorns and rainbows."

Undoer of Knots

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Advent series: Mother and Child by preaching on Romans 8: 26-27, 31-39 & Luke 1: 46b-55. In her message, Pastor Alexa explained Mary's title as the "Undoer of Knots" and how she and her son can help us unravel the snares we find ourselves in today.

Cause of Our Joy

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Advent series: Mother and Child by preaching on Isaiah 40: 1-5 & Luke 1: 26-38. In her message, Pastor Heather explained how we're given a choice to either turn towards or away from God and reminded us that Mary's choice to give birth to Jesus brought great Joy to the World.

Queen of Peace

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our new Advent series: Mother and Child by preaching on Isaiah 9: 1-6 and John 14: 23-29. In her message, Pastor Heather contemplated how "peace" is not a casual experience, but a conscious choice.

Stella Maris

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who began our new Advent series: Mother and Child by preaching on Revelation 12: 1 & 22:16. In her message, Pastor Alexa examined Mary’s title as “Stella Maris” and invited us to use her as our true North as we navigate the treacherous seas of life.

They All Walk Away

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Kelly Dahlman-Oeth who joined us from Shelton UMC and concluded our stewardship series: Here Is The Church by preaching on Acts 8: 26-40. In his message, Pastor Kelly challenged us to go out into the “wilderness” of our faith to spread the good news.

Hear Them Pray

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our stewardship series: Here Is The Church by preaching on 1 Corinthians 3: 8-13. In her message, Pastor Heather considered how to return to the "basic" practices of prayer.

Close The Doors

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from BOTH Pastor Heather and Pastor Alexa who each continued our stewardship series: Here Is The Church by preaching their own unique (but harmonious) perspectives on 2 Corinthians 5: 16-21.

See All The People

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our stewardship series: Here Is The Church by preaching on 1 Corinthians 12: 12-26. In her message, Pastor Heather assured us that we are never alone when we remember the witness of saints who have led the church before us.

Open The Doors

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Eunice Lin-Sawyer who joined us from the Parish Collective to continue our stewardship series: Here Is The Church by preaching on Hebrews 10: 24-25 and how we can serve our neighborhood with open doors.

Here Is The Steeple

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our stewardship series: Here Is The Church by preaching on Ephesians 1: 20-23, Acts 2: 42-44, 1 Timothy 3: 1-13. In her message, Pastor Alexa explained how guidelines and rules in our infrastructure help our ministries flourish.

Lead Courageously

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who concluded our fall worship series: Being United Methodist by preaching on Joshua 1:9 & Ephesians 6: 10-18. In her message, Pastor Alexa reminded us that the kingdom of God comes to us through the body of Christ, wearing the Armor of God.

Love Boldly

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

If you missed Pastor Alexa's Message on Sunday, here it is again just for you. This week, she continued our fall worship series: Being United Methodist by preaching on Matthew 22:37-39 and John 13:34-35, proclaiming that Jesus' call to love our neighbors is in direct conflict with many of the influences in the world around us.

On Mission

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

If you missed Pastor Heather's Message on Sunday, here it is again just for you. This week, she started off our fall worship series: Being United Methodist by preaching on Matthew 28:1-20, acknowledging we are 'People of the Dawn,' a people called to respond faithfully to the suffering around us.

Dreams Collide

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, Pastor Heather finished our Summer worship series: Beach Reads by preaching on Acts 10, the reconciliation between Jew and Gentile, and the dismantling of every other barrier we put up between ourselves and others.

Ghost or God?

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Summer worship series: Beach Reads by preaching on Matthew 14: 22-23. In her message, Pastor Alexa reflected on how Jesus inspired bravery in his disciples when he walked on water.

Big Catch

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Summer worship series: Beach Reads by preaching on Luke 5: 1-11. In her message, Pastor Heather reflected on the shoreline between Jesus and his "semi-disciples."

Tempest Tossed

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Summer worship series: Beach Reads by preaching on Jonah 1-2. In her message, Pastor Alexa reminded us that, while proclaiming justice might turn our stomachs, it is the only way to topple empires.

Bitter Water

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Summer worship series: Beach Reads by preaching on Exodus 15: 19-27. In her message, Pastor Heather reminded us that the God who liberates us will also lead us through the “bitter water” we find on the other side.

Between Land and Sea

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who began our Summer worship series: Beach Reads by preaching on Genesis 1 & Job 38: 8-11. In her message, Pastor Alexa defined what it means to worship at the shoreline and some of the ways we're torn across borders.

Rise

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Pentecost worship series: Hope Rising by preaching on Matthew 10: 24-39. In her message, Pastor Heather reflected on how the work of discipleship was never supposed to be easy… but we don’t do it alone.

Dust

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Pentecost worship series: Hope Rising by preaching on Matthew 9:5 - 10:14. In her message, Pastor Heather reflected on baggage and how the preconceptions we carry out into ministry weigh us down.

Healed

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, Andrew Sergienko preached while our pastors were out of town. He continued our Pentecost worship series: Hope Rising by preaching on Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26. Andrew reflected on the meaning of true hope and the tricky relationship between faith and doubt.

Sent | Trinity Sunday

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our new Pentecost worship series: Hope Rising by preaching on Matthew 28: 16-20. In her message, Pastor Heather preached on Trinity Sunday and its meaning in the strife of our world today.

Fufilment

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we were joined by our missionary friend, Heather Askew, from Jojo's Sanctuary in Thailand who concluded our Easter worship series: Hindsight by looking back at her faith journey and how each step along the way God led her to the work she does at Jojo’s Sanctuary. She also told us about the good work done by JoJo’s Sanctuary to help strengthen families and give children opportunities to grow up into healthy, thriving adults.

Map Or A Mystery

Sun, 18 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, our church participated in another co-op pulpit swap! We were joined by Pastor Denise from St Andrews UMC in Lacey who continued our Easter worship series: Hindsight by preaching on John 14: 1-14. In her message, Pastor Denise contemplated how we might have faith in Jesus as our way when we are searching for clarity.

Wounded Healer

Sun, 11 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Easter worship series: Hindsight by preaching on John 20: 19-31. In her message, Pastor Alexa reflected on the difference between wounds and scars and why Thomas might have only recognized Jesus through his wounds.

Broken Bread

Sun, 04 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Easter worship series: Hindsight by preaching on Luke 24: 13-35. In her message, Pastor Alexa retold the walk to Emmaus and contemplated how we might "fine-tune" our senses so we can better see God's work as it’s happening in our lives.

Risen Christ!

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Easter Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who soft-launched our new Easter worship series: Hindsight by preaching on John 20: 1-18 & Matthew 28: 1-10. In her message, Pastor Heather told the story of the empty tomb and reflected on how we can witness God making all things new.

Blesses - Palm Sunday

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This Palm Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who finished our Lenten worship series: House of the Lord by preaching on Psalm 118: 1-2, 19-29 & Luke 19: 28-40. In her message, Pastor Alexa wondered if Jesus saw his entrance into Jerusalem as a kind of funeral procession and reminded us that it is our call to bless each other everyday with a good word.

Prepares

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Lenten worship series: House of the Lord by preaching on Isaiah 43: 16-21 & John 12: 1-8. In her message, Pastor Heather told the story of Mary washing Jesus’ feet with perfume and the deeper meaning of such an extravagant gift.

Reconciles

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Lenten worship series: House of the Lord by preaching on Luke 15: 1-3, 11b-32 & 2 Corinthians 5: 16-21. In her message, Pastor Heather spoke on the story of the Prodigal Son and the unearned, unending, reconciling Grace of God.

Lasts

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we had a VERY special service led by the kids in our church community. Miss Brittney even gave the message with one of those wonderful kids and they continued our Lenten worship series: House of the Lord by preaching on Psalm 27 & Luke 1: 26-38. In their message, Miss Brittney and Charlotte shared what belonging means to the young people in our community.

Satisfies

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, our pastors participated in a pulpit swap with the other co-op churches. We were joined by Pastor Kelly from Shelton UMC who continued our Lenten worship series: House of the Lord by preaching on Isaiah 55: 1-9 & Psalm 63: 1-8. In his message, Pastor Kelly gave us a history lesson on the exile to Babylon and played a little banjo.

Shelters

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa who began our new Lent worship series: House of the Lord on by preaching on Psalm 91 & Luke 13: 31-35. In her message, Pastor Alexa reminded us to treat God as our shelter—towering above violent tempests that rage in the world.

Transform

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who concluded our Epiphany worship series: Beloved & Gifted on Transfiguration Sunday by preaching on Exodus 34: 29-35 & Luke 9: 28-36. In her message, Pastor Alexa led the congregation in a guided meditation to be formed for the work ahead.

Witness

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather, who continued our Epiphany worship series: Beloved & Gifted by preaching on Isaiah 6: 1-8 & 1 Corinthians 15: 1-11. In her message, Pastor Heather took a closer look at what it really means to have spiritual gifts of witness...

Outreach

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who continued our Epiphany worship series: Beloved & Gifted by preaching on Jeremiah 1: 4-10 & 1 Corinthians 13: 1-13. In her message, Pastor Alexa shared how we need those with gifts of outreach to remind us that no one is ever off of God's map.

Nurture

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather, who continued our new Epiphany worship series: Beloved & Gifted by preaching on 1 Corinthians 12: 12-31a & Luke 4: 14-21. In her message, Pastor Heather reminded us that, in the body of Christ, we need those with nurturing gifts to be our hearts.

Called

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who continued our new Epiphany worship series: Beloved & Gifted by preaching on 1 Corinthians 12: 1-11 & John 2: 1-11. In her message, Pastor Alexa invited us to listen to our individual callings and discern how they might serve God's works because this is not an end, but a continual beginning.

Named

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather, who began our new Epiphany worship series: Beloved & Gifted by preaching on Isaiah 43: 1-7 & Luke 3: 15-17, 21-22. In her message, Pastor Heather reminded us that we are created by God to love and be loved exactly as we are.

Ordinary Lives Can Be Holy

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In-between worship series this week, we were joined by Dr. Marcia McFee as part of a special weekend workshop held right here in our sanctuary. This Sunday, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who preached on Luke 4: 1-13 and reminded us that God always finds us "good enough" and that we are holy even in our ordinary lives.

Faith

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Denise who joined us from St Andrews UMC in Lacey as part of our regular co-op pulpit swaps. Pastor Denise concluded our extended Advent worship series: More Than Words by preaching on the theme of Faith in Ephesians 3: 1-12 & Matthew 2: 1-12. In her message, she told us the story of the Wise Ones and asked us to follow God’s signs like a sailor trusts a compass to find true North.

Christmas Eve

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This Christmas Eve, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather, who preached on John 1: 1-16. In her message, Pastor Heather explored the importance of telling the Christmas story each year and, more importantly, why we need to continually live into its message over and over again.

Love

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who continued our Advent worship series: More Than Words by preaching on the theme of Love in Micah 5: 2-5a & Luke 1 39:-55. In her message, Pastor Alexa compared love to attention and asked us to consider the focus of our attention as a 'portal' into which we see God's divine love for us all.

Joy

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather, who continued our Advent worship series: More Than Words by preaching on the theme of Joy in Zephaniah 3: 14-20 & Luke 3: 7-18. In her message, Pastor Heather introduced the idea of joy as a "time traveler" which gives us a glimpse of God's eventual kin-dom in our midst.

Peace

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who continued our Advent worship series: More Than Words by preaching on the theme of Peace in Luke 1: 68-79 & Luke 3: 1-6. In her message, Pastor Alexa compared the way of peace to erosion and implored us to walk along the path of peace with persistent tenacity.

Hope

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather, who continued our Advent worship series: More Than Words by preaching on the theme of Hope in Jeremiah 33: 14-16 and Luke 21: 25-36. In her message, Pastor Heather explained the difference between hope and optimism and urged us to be people of hope even in the midst of suffering.

Justice

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who soft launched our new Advent worship series: More Than Words by preaching on the theme of Justice in 2 Samuel 23: 1-7 & John 19: 33-37. In her message, Pastor Alexa reminds us that justice fights against the "mythical norm" that props up abusive systems of power.

Harvest of Blessing

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who wrapped up our Stewardship series: Cultivating a Future of Hope by preaching on Psalm 126. In her message, Pastor Heather called us to sow seeds of hope for God's kingdom even (and especially) while we grieve.

Plant Gardens

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continues our Stewardship series: Cultivating a Future of Hope by preaching on Jeremiah 29: 4-7. In her message, Pastor Alexa reminds us that, while we may feel the urge to escape, God asks us to plant gardens with hope for the future.

Mustard Seed Faith

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Stewardship series: Cultivating a Future of Hope by preaching on Mark 4: 30-32. In her message, Pastor Heather told the parable of the Mustard Seed and how God's faith grows into unexpected things one day at a time.

They Do Not Know How

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who continues our Stewardship series: Cultivating a Future of Hope by preaching on Mark 4: 26-29. In her message, Pastor Heather spoke on how being sowers of God's word requires immense faith in things unseen.

Threats and Challenges to the Harvest

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who continued our Stewardship series: Cultivating a Future of Hope by preaching on Mark 4: 13-20. In her message, Pastor Alexa reflected on some challenges our church faces in our ministry this season.

Sowing Generously

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who began our Stewardship series: Cultivating a Future of Hope by preaching on Mark 4: 1-9. In her message, Pastor Heather described sowing God’s grace generously… and with a little chaos, to reach far and wide.

The Table of Joy

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who concluded our Fall worship series: Come to the Table by preaching on the theme of Joy in Philippians 2:1-13 & Matthew 21: 23-32. In her message, Pastor Heather invited us to celebrate World Communion Sunday as equals at God’s table.

The Table of Grace

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from our Director of Children’s Ministry, Miss Brittney who continued our Fall worship series: Come to the Table by preaching on the theme of grace in Philippians 1: 21-30 & Matthew 20: 1-16. In her message, Miss Brittney asserted that God’s Table of Grace is open to all — no matter how long you’ve been sitting down.

The Table of Peace

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continues our Fall worship series: Come to the Table by preaching on the theme of Peace in Romans 14: 1-12 & Matthew 18: 21-35. In her message, Pastor Alexa compared “Pax Romana” and “Pax Christi” and explained how the Peace of Christ will always triumph over the false peace of empire.

The Table of Love

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we participated in another pulpit swap around the South Sound United Methodist Co-op. While Pastors Heather and Alexa were away, Pastor Kelly Dahlman-Oeth joined us from Shelton UMC and continued our Fall worship series: Come to the Table by preaching on Romans 13: 8-14 & Matthew 18: 15-20.

In his message, Pastor Kelly introduced the Table of Love and how to question the ‘rules’ that separate us from one another.

The Table of Hospitality

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who kicked off our next worship series: Come to the Table by preaching on the theme of hospitality in Romans 12: 9-21 & Matthew 16: 24-25. In her message, Pastor Heather shared some of the many ways we eat together in both worship and fellowship and how that community reveals a deeper part of our humanity.

Hymn Sing

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who introduced our next worship series by preaching on Colossians 3: 12-17. In her message, Pastor Heather reminded us that God’s table is open to all who gather around it.

We’re in between worship series this week. In this transition, we held a hymn sing and began looking ahead to our next series: Come to the Table. When we say “yes” to a place at Christ’s table, we accept a way of life that embraces God’s definition of love, peace, grace, and joy.

Longing For Celebration

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who wrapped up our Summer worship series: Camp FUMCO by preaching on Pilippians 1: 3-11. In her message, Pastor Heather shared with us some of the lessons our kids learned at Vacation Bible School last week and the celebrations we have to share with one another.

Longing For Change

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather as she continues our Summer worship series: Camp FUMCO by preaching on the theme of injustice in Numbers 27: 1-11. In her message, Pastor Heather invites us to consider our prayers as petitions—asking God for guidance and a commitment to act according to God’s will.

Longing For Guidance

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Summer worship series: Camp FUMCO by preaching on the theme of guidance in 1 Kings 3: 3-15. In her message, Pastor Alexa shared some Biblical context for the kings of Israel, reminded us that Solomon was both a wise and fallible leader, and asked us to consider putting our humble trust in a God we cannot see.

Longing to Be Heard

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Summer worship series: Camp FUMCO by preaching on the classic camp story of Jonah. In her message, Pastor Heather reflects on how hard it can be to truly “love our neighbor” the way God asks us to.

Longing Together

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Summer worship series: Camp FUMCO by preaching on the theme of bravery in Esther 4. In her message, Pastor Alexa challenged us to practice our faith through prayer and community—so that, when crisis strikes, we already have the skills ready to change the world.

Longing to be Invited

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

If you missed Pastor Kellen's Message on Sunday, here it is again just for you. This Sunday, he kicked off our second Summer worship series: Camp FUMCO by preaching on John 1:35-51 and how being invitational to do life with other people means setting aside our prejudice.

Strength and Weakness

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who concluded our worship series: Treasure in Clay Jars by preaching on 2 Corinthians 12: 2-10. In her message, Pastor Heather reminds us one final time that we are NOT called to be "perfect" vessels for God's work.

Have and Have Not

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our worship series: Treasure in Clay Jars by preaching on 2 Corinthians 8: 7-15. In her message, Pastor Heather gave a reminder that not all gifts are monetary and that fully participating in our communities is both an act of giving and receiving.

Everything and Nothing

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our worship series: Treasure in Clay Jars by preaching on 2 Corinthians 6: 1-13. In her message, Pastor Heather explains what Paul meant by asking us to risk having "nothing" so that we might gain "everything."

Life and Death

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from our Director of Children’s Ministry, Brittney Gilleland, who continued our worship series: Treasure in Clay Jars by preaching on 2 Corinthians 5: 6-17. In her message, Brittney speaks on the thin space between Life and Death and urges us to use our time on earth to boldly speak up and share God’s love.

Temporary and Eternal

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who continues our worship series: Treasure in Clay Jars by preaching on 2 Corinthians 4:13 - 5:1. In her message, Pastor Heather reminds us that, while we may long for the peace and eternity of heaven, God's work for us in our temporary bodies here on earth is just as important.

Living Beyond Ourselves

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who began our new worship series: Treasure in Clay Jars by preaching on 2 Corinthians 4: 5-12 and inviting us to see our bodies as fragile vessels for God's love to live beyond ourselves.

Native American Ministry Sunday

Sun, 26 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa. Between worship series this Native American Ministries Sunday, she shared a message about the importance of names and the role that we as United Methodists have played in perpetuating colonialism done in our name.

Prophecy

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who concluded our Eastertide worship series by preaching on the theme of Prophecy in Acts 2: 1-21. In her message, Pastor Alexa gave some historical context for the Pentecost festival and invited you to hear the prophets with us today—who speak a new world into existence when we won’t stand for this one any longer.

Kingdom of Heaven

Sun, 12 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continues our Eastertide worship series by preaching on Acts 1: 6-14. In her message, Pastor Alexa invites us to understand the Kingdom of God as their dream for the world becoming real through the mission of God’s people. And that the logistical details are not ours to know…

Judgement

Sun, 05 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather, who continues our Eastertide worship series by preaching on Acts 17: 22-31 and the theme of judgment. In her sermon, Pastor Heather unpacks how Christians have historically weaponized a misunderstanding of God’s judgment and invites us to celebrate the decisions made in favor of LGBTQ+ inclusion made at General Conference last week.

Sacrifice

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa, who continues our Eastertide worship series by preaching on Acts 7: 55-60 and the theme of sacrifice. In her sermon, Pastor Alexa offers the reminder that it is often harder to live our lives as a living sacrifice to God than to claim we’d sacrifice our lives in the name of our faith.

Salvation

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather as we continue our Eastertide worship series by preaching on Acts 2: 36-41 and the theme of salvation. In her sermon, Pastor Heather explores several misconceptions about salvation, and invites us to think about salvation in a new way.

Suffering

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continues our Eastertide worship series by preaching on Psalm 23 and the theme of suffering. In her sermon, Pastor Alexa asks “why does Suffering exist”? And reminds us that God loves and walks with us even in our greatest pain.

Belief

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Pastor Heather explores what it means to believe in God. Is belief intellectual assent alone, or something deeper?

Resurrection (Easter Sunday)

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Pastor Heather teaches that the story of resurrection is no fairy tale, but comes from the muck and mire of our real lives.

The Garden: Risking Temptation

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who concludes our Lenten worship series by preaching on the Garden of Gethsemane and Jesus’s last night of prayer. In her sermon, Pastor Alexa shares a story of intense prayer and how we might all put on God’s armor to walk through gauntlets of our own.

The Last Supper: Risking the Loss of Friends

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who continues our Lenten worship series by preaching on The Last Supper. In her sermon, Pastor Heather focuses on the image of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples and his surprising role in this story as servant, instead of honored guest.

The First Dinner: Risking Rejection

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we did something a little different in worship. Instead of a traditional sermon, Sue Raymond, one of our lay leaders, shared with us a midrash of the story when Mary anointed Jesus with perfume. A midrash is a dramatic performance that helps us better understand scripture and the context in which it was written.

Sue’s midrash was a beautiful way to continue picturing ourselves alongside Jesus in the final week of his life and teaching.

The Teaching: Risking Challenge

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continues our Lenten worship series by preaching on Jesus’s teachings to the Pharisees in the final week of his life. In her sermon, Pastor Alexa shares historical context about “false idols” in this story and an emotional message on fighting school closures in our neighborhood.

The Temple: Risking Righteous Anger

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we were joined by Rev. Golden Neal who continued our Lenten worship series by preaching on Jesus’s actions in the temple of Jerusalem. In his message, Pastor Golden gave us context for Jesus’s anger and invited us to ‘clean our own houses’ to make room for God’s Spirit to blow and breathe through us.

The Parade: Risking Reputation

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who began our new Lenten worship series by preaching on Jesus’s entrance into the city of Jerusalem. In her message, Pastor Heather acknowledges discomfort in the story of Holy Week and how Jesus’s entrance on a donkey leads us to understand that salvation does not come in the way we expect; that triumph is found through humility.

Known by the Company We Keep; Called by the Saints

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from both Pastors Heather and Alexa who conclude our Epiphany worship series by preaching on the Transfiguration in Mark 9: 2-9. In their message, our pastors discuss “mountain top moments” and the importance of coming back down to do God’s work here on earth.

Known by the Crowds; Called to Gather

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from both Pastor Heather and Pastor Alexa, as we continue our Epiphany worship series by preaching on Mark 1: 40-45. In our pastors' message, they conversed about radical hospitality, communion, and how we can create a truly open table.

Known by Touch; Called to Heal

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who continued our Epiphany worship series by preaching on Mark 1: 29-39. In her message, Pastor Heather examines what it means to be the body of Christ "moved into the neighborhood" to do the work of healing.

Known as Fishers, Called to Cast a Wide Net

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa who continued our Epiphany worship series by preaching on Mark 1: 14-20. In her message, Pastor Alexa called us to “mend our nets” so that our social fabric might be inclusive of marginalized communities.

Known by Light, Called to Joy

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather who began our new Epiphany worship by preaching on Isaiah 60:1 & Matthew 2: 1-12. In her message, Pastor Heather spoke of her own call to ministry and how we all might hear God’s call to be People of Joy.

Love in the Midst of Hate

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

On Christmas Eve, our community gathered for 3 candlelight services that included carols, scripture, and a word of hope. We heard a message from Pastor Heather who preached on Luke 2:1-20. In her message, Pastor Heather teaches us that the Christmas story is about heaven come down to earth.

Joy in the Midst of War

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we heard a message from Pastor Heather who continued our Advent worship by preaching on the Magnificat in Luke 1: 46-55 & an unusually cosmic nativity story in Revelation 12. In her message, Pastor Heather confronted the difficulty of finding joy in the midst of war, but challenged us to dance in the face of its darkness.

Hope in the Midst of Entropy

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa. In her message, Pastor Alexa began our Advent worship by preaching on Mark 13: 24-37 and the ways we can still find Hope in the midst of entropy and chaos. Because some things must fall apart to be rebuilt in the name of justice, righteousness, peace, and love.

Eliminating Racism

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa. In her message, Pastor Alexa preached on Deuteronomy 10:19 & 1 John 2:3-6 and finished our stewardship series by inviting us to recognize our identities, biases, and anxieties as a step towards “Eliminating Racism.”

Inhabit The Community

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather. In her message, Pastor Heather preached on Jeremiah 29: 4-7,10-14 & Ephesians 2:10 and continued our worship series by discussing the ways we can “Inhabit Our Community” to ensure it’s more welcoming and inclusive for all.

Lay Leadership

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from our District Superintendent, Rev Kathleen Weber. In her message, Rev Kathleen preached on Exodus 19:6 and 1 Corinthians 12: 1-20, continuing our new worship series by highlighting the many spiritual gifts we each possess to make a difference through “lay leadership”.

Ministry That Matters

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather. In her message, Pastor Heather preached on Micah 6:8 & 2 Corinthians 5:7 and introduced our new worship series by emphasizing slowing down to observe our neighborhoods, in order to discern our call to ministry.

Welcome

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather. In her message, Pastor Heather preached on Matthew 27:50-54 & Revelation 21: 1-6, 22-27. She also invited us to consider how we create spaces where ALL are welcome to belong in our community, because this is God’s dream for our world.

The Day is Coming

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Rev. Corey Passons and Interfaith Works, one of our community partners. Rev. Corey preached on Matthew 12: 46-50 and, in his message, he invited us to carefully consider the nature of community and belonging.

God Has Work For Us to Do

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Kelly who joined us from Shelton United Methodist Church as part of our co-op pulpit swap. Pastor Kelly preached on Matthew 21:12-17 and, in his message, he invited us to ‘flip tables’ and consider using our privilege to be disruptive forces for justice.

I Choose Love

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa, on Matthew 18: 21-35. In her message, we are invited to consider the nature of debt and to become ‘radical change-makers’ who can forgive and be forgiven.

I Dream of a Church

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather on Matthew 9:9-13. In her message, Pastor Heather invites us to see Jesus in unexpected places, and in unexpected people through the practice of faithful presence. If we did this, she thinks that the church would be transformed into what God intended it to be.

How Long?

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather on Matthew 4:1-11 & Matthew 16:21-28. In her message, Pastor Heather teaches that the first step to addressing injustice in our communities is naming them as such. After naming them, rather than feeling helpless, Pastor Heather calls us to remember that God stands with us against the powers of oppression.

Child of God

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa on Amos 5:21-24 and Matthew 3:13-17. In her message, Pastor Alexa invites us to see the injustices that get in the way of remembering that we are all beloved children of God. And that THIS is where we begin.

The Burning Bush

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather on Exodus 3:1-15, the story of God appearing to Moses in the Burning Bush. In her message, Pastor Heather invites us to consider our own burning bush experiences and to claim this story as our own.

The Birth of Moses

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Alexa on Exodus 1:8-2:10 and the harrowing story surrounding the birth of Moses. In her message, Pastor Alexa invites us to consider how following the God of life leads us to make bold and courageous decisions that bring life to others.

Joseph's Brothers pt 2

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Heather, interpreting the story of Joseph forgiving his brothers, who sold him into slavery. The story is recorded in Genesis 45:1-15. Pastor Heather invites us to consider a wider view of forgiveness; considering all who it frees.

Joseph's Brothers pt 1

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we participated in a pulpit swap with other United Methodist churches in the Sound Sound area and heard from Pastor Kellen from Tumwater UMC. Pastor Kellen explored the story of Joseph’s brothers selling him into slavery in Genesis 37 and themes of breaking intergenerational patterns.

Jacob Wrestles

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week’s sermon explores the story of Jacob wrestling with God in Genesis 32. Pastor Heather explores the nature of God’s blessings, claiming they’re hard fought and substantial. In our wrestling with God, we find our true identity, which empowers us to then bless the world in real, tangible ways.

Jacob, Leah, and Rachel

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week’s sermon explores the story of Jacob’s Marriage to Leah and Rachel in Genesis 29. Pastor Heather preaches through a lens of feminism using the recently released Barbie movie as a key to enter into the story.

Jacob's Dream

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week’s sermon explores the story of Jacob’s Dream in Genesis 28. This story is often known as the story of Jacob’s ladder because in Jacob’s dream he sees a ladder with angels ascending and descending from heaven. In Pastor Heather's sermon, she asks the question: "What are our dreams for future generations and how can the blessings God has given to us be invested in a future where all people have what they need to thrive?"

Jacob and Esau

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week's sermon explores the story of Jacob and Esau in Genesis 25. There are many questions that this story raises; we seek to answer just one: why does the family of Isaac and Rebekah, with their children Jacob and Esau, function the way it does?

Isaac and Rebekah

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week's sermon explores the story of the marriage between Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24. As a contemporary reader of this story, so much of the story is shocking at first glance. But we hope you'll also hear how we guide you through a process to reveal the grace we trust is there in our sacred text. Let’s listen in:

The Binding of Isaac

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we continue a worship series we’re calling Generation to Generation. This series will follow the family narratives from Abraham to Moses. We hope that in exploring the many generations of the family that is central to three of the world’s major religions, we will find grace for any intergenerational strife we might find ourselves in, remember that our faith holds more complex stories than we might think, and continue fostering the trust that God does not leave any generation to themselves. God is always faithful and at work in us.

This week’s sermon explores the difficult story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22: 1-14

Hagar and Ishmael

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week’s sermon explores the story of Hagar and Ishmael in Genesis 21: 8-21.

Abraham and Sarah

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week, we started a worship series we’re calling Generation to Generation. This series will follow the family narratives from Abraham to Moses. We hope that in exploring the many generations of the family that is central to three of the world’s major religions, we will find grace for any intergenerational strife we might find ourselves in, remember that our faith holds more complex stories than we might think, and continue fostering the trust that God does not leave any generation to themselves. God is always faithful and at work in us.

This week’s sermon explores the story of Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 18:1-15, and 21:1-7. In this story, Sarah laughs when a visitor prophesies that she will bear a child, though she is very old. Let’s listen in: