Northmont United Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Northmont United Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, 412.364.0105, www.northmontchurch.org, Rev. Dr. John J. Lolla, Pastor.


Bob’s thoughts:

We visited Northmont to hear their new pastor and because of its proximity to a later visit. Northmont has a most impressive Sanctuary, great woodwork and wooden beams across an arched ceiling and a central cross suspended that all works very well together. Although doors are marked, they could benefit from some directional signage: restrooms, elevator, handicapped restroom, etc.

I enjoyed the children’s sermon; it was encouraging to hear one aimed at the children. We were especially pleased to hear the brass ensemble by the Eisenreichs and Scott Eisenreich’s solo of “Mary, Did You Know?” The bulletin was way more awkward than it needed to be, but there was a lot of information.

The pastor’s message was on moving ahead in faith in God, being free to be dependent on Christ. To not let ourselves be held back by our past. When I thought the message seemed to run on a bit I was reminded the message I hear may be very different from what someone else heard.

Jan’s thoughts:

We needed to be in the area early this afternoon, so we opted to visit Northmont to see and hear their new pastor. After arriving and receiving a bulletin, we learned that some friends were presenting the music this morning, so that was a surprise treat.

Even with all the snow still on the ground, the parking lot was well tended to and mostly clean.

We sat toward the back of the Sanctuary which gave us a great view of the woodwork on the ceiling and the rear wall of the Chancel. It’s a very attractive space with the matching wood all around and painted surfaces, especially on the ceiling.

The people were friendly, many greeting us both prior to the service and during worship. It was heartening to see so many children come forward for the children’s sermon, and I enjoyed listening to the young woman who spoke to the children as she had a pleasant, confident voice.

The bulletin contains lots of information; however, it was cumbersome. For what it’s worth, I'd suggest keeping the Order of Worship on the one folded page and including the rest in the form of unfolded inserts. That way when the bulletin is folded for use during worship it's possible to insert everything inside that's not worship-related and still follow worship.

I’ve heard of Dr. Lolla for many years but had not met him - and technically still haven’t, but at least now I know who he is. His manner is exceptionally pastoral, his voice is calm, and his bearing is humble and trustworthy. I’m sure the effect of his ministry on this church will bring glory to God.

The sermon was titled “Moving Ahead↑” and was based on Philippians 3:7-14. After hearing it I knew why God had sent us there today. He spoke of moving forward in the face of change, and in the process depending upon God to free us from the prison of the past and to be our safety net as we walk the tightrope into an unknown future. I believe this message spoke to the needs of this congregation and I know it spoke to mine.