Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church

Today we worshiped at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 399 State Street, Baden, PA 15005, 724.869.7635, www.lutheransonline.com/christoursaviors, Rev. Jill E. McGregor, Pastor.


Bob’s thoughts:

Today we went to check out one of the churches closest to us; however we arrived a few minutes late, so we saw only the Sanctuary. The building has a great dark wood ceiling and unusual half-round stained glass windows set in the ceilings. The colors in the stained glass windows were somber but ornate. The pew cushions were very comfortable.

The Children’s Sermon was well done with many comments back from the children.

A “promise keepers” message that the true kept promises are the promises of God.

Sometimes wish I could be here for the Scripture and message only; so much of the ritual seems unenthusiastic and unfamiliar.

I was able to gain a bit of a feel for the work and activities of the congregation from the old bulletins in the pew rack, and guessing from the number of children I saw this looks like it may be a healthy church.

A congregational meeting was scheduled immediately after the service, so we were able to exchange greetings with the minister only.

Jan’s thoughts:

This is the sister church of the Lutheran church we visited November 29, and the same pastor serves both churches.

We were running a little late today and arrived shortly after worship began. Even so, the usher saw us coming and was ready with bulletins when we got inside. The Sanctuary was quite full and we found seats in the last row. Another usher, who was seated in a pew against the back wall behind us, promptly provided us with a hymnal opened to the page from which the congregation was singing. Although we’ve attended a couple of Lutheran services lately the liturgy is still confusing to me, so her assistance was much appreciated.

I was unable to see any of the children who went forward for the Children’s Sermon, but was enthralled to hear the enthusiasm of a young one named Emily who nearly took over the time. She was so sweet and genuine, and the pastor treated her interjections with respect.

The sermon was untitled but centered around the fact that although we all have broken promises at one time or another, God cannot break His promises. This is one of those things that I know but had not thought to apply to an issue of conflict with which I’m currently wrestling. God is a God of reconciliation, and He can and will work to heal relationships because that is Who He is. So my hope for this relationship has been renewed by hearing this reminder and my heart now has renewed hope in Him. I suppose from time to time we all need reminders of forgotten truths, and I’m very grateful for this reminder.

Due to a congregational meeting immediately following the service, the pastor greeted visitors as they left and then they began their meeting. Consequently, the only people we were able to greet besides the pastor were the woman next to us and the usher we saw on our way out. Still, I left with a lighter feeling in my heart than when I arrived.