St. Paul's United Church of Christ

Today we worshiped at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Constitution Avenue, P.O. Box 252, Connoquenessing, PA 16027, 412.635.9558, Mr. Norman Tutino, Pastor.

Scripture – John 14:23-29 NIV

Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.”

Bob’s thoughts:

I had planned to visit here for a few years. Recently we tried and found we were too late; today we were more than a half hour early and waited. We were let in by the pastor and greeted by a number of people before the service, some of whom engaged us in conversation beyond just the normal welcome. This is a small country church.

The church had conventional pews, a flat ceiling, and some interesting tapestries on the walls.

It was nice not to have to hunt for a cross (on the Communion table) and to have an order of worship. I think knowing what to expect next goes a long way towards making a visitor feel part of worship.

The service was broken into sections…The Community: Gathers Before God, Hears and Proclaims God’s Word, Responds to the Word of God, and Departs for Ministry. I hope they worship by those guidelines.

The pastor’s message, “The Peace That Jesus Gives,” referred to our hospitality toward others. He referenced Christ’s questions to Peter, “Do you love Me? – Feed My sheep.” If we love Christ, we are called to act and do.

The Communion elements were offered verbally by the pastor but I missed an opportunity to serve because I forgot to ask if the pastor would be served.

It was encouraging to hear of an increased mission involvement for the church. I know God will bless their efforts.

Jan’s thoughts:

We found this little church last week in our drive around the area but remembered the start time incorrectly so ended up arriving extra early. The pastor let us in and then escorted us downstairs when we asked about the restrooms.

I noticed no signage but none was really necessary…it looked like everything except the sanctuary and the pastor’s office was downstairs.

Back upstairs, we found seats in the sanctuary and a number of people stopped to welcome us. The family atmosphere was apparent, and even more obvious during the announcements.

The unique banners all looked like various-sized tapestries, and the lights hanging from the ceiling had an intriguing geometric design.

The sermon was called “The Peace That Jesus Gives” and was summed up when he stated that we respond to God’s love by responding to the needs of the world. Even when it seems like a small gesture; little things make an impact for the Kingdom when they are done in the love of Christ.

Most of the congregation came forward in a circle for Communion as the pastor walked to the seats to serve those who remained seated. The elements were presented verbally and everyone partook together.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we rejoice with You that this church is heeding Your call to go forth in mission; guide them as they feed Your sheep. Amen.