The Chapel on Merchant

Yesterday we worshiped at The Chapel on Merchant, 452 Merchant Street, Ambridge, PA 15003, 724.650.1885, Pastor Josh Fillip.

Scripture – Ephesians 4:4-6 NIV

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Bob’s thoughts:

While waiting for repairs on my truck I got to walk through this neighborhood and thought I had discovered The Chapel myself. I didn’t see God’s orchestration till I learned we had a commitment on Sunday and this Saturday night service was where we needed to be.

We were welcomed to worship at this storefront ministry.

I enjoyed the female lead and others who played and sang.

The pastor’s style seems to fit his congregation and his message was well received. The sermon, “God is Greater,” was a simple message that we all need to hear every day. There is nothing you are experiencing that God isn’t greater than. The pastor said he prays during the week about what to preach on, and he obeyed well.

Some points: God will meet you where you are, and when sin is on the rise in your life, God’s power is still greater. We all need reminded that He is with us no matter what we are experiencing now. Even in situations beyond our imagination, God is still greater

My favorite line: “God is in the restoration business.” Christ redeemed me…proof He can save you.

There were good Scriptural references to support the message. The crosses I found were on banners on the walls.

I appreciated the opportunity to speak with the pastor after the service.

Jan’s thoughts:

This week, as we sought a Saturday evening service, Bob discovered this church while on walkabout. Half of the inside is a thrift shop while the other half is set up as a worship space with chairs, an overhead projector, banners, and pictures.

We arrived early and, not realizing the thrift shop area was not open for business, wandered around looking at things. When I asked about an item, I was instructed to include whatever I wanted to pay in the offering.

We sat near the back and a nearby table welcomed everyone with coffee and cookies. On one of his trips past us, the pastor offered us water, which I gratefully accepted.

Several folks greeted us before and after worship.

Music was well led by a unique duo comprised of a keyboardist and a vocalist with a ukulele as well as another gentleman who played an acoustic guitar. They led contemporary tunes and traditional hymns for this Reformation weekend worship.

The pastor’s message was entitled “God is Greater” and emphasized His sovereignty over every struggle, valley, sin, and addiction in our lives. The pastor reminded that God has all the answers we seek and He meets us where we are.

The pastor offered individual prayer to anyone who wished to come forward after the benediction.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray for Your blessing on this church and their ministry to the neighborhood as they work to help restore this area. Amen.