Valley Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Valley Presbyterian Church, 237 Main Street, Imperial, PA 15126, 724.695.0300, www.valleychurchweb.com, Rev. Ben Robbins, Pastor.

Scripture – Luke 24:44-53

"He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.”

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God."

Bob’s thoughts:

I like visiting Valley Presbyterian: the sanctuary is simple but pretty and the chancel is pleasant. There are mini lights strung to remind members to pray for the missing girls in Nigeria.

I appreciated hearing the vocals and piano during the anthem; I could not tell if anyone was singing during the other songs. I enjoyed the piano and appreciated how she tapered off when the offering was collected.

This is the only church I can remember that projects the children on the screen during their message. Much appreciated.

The sermon, “The Next Thing,” was developed from the apostles’ reaching another level of understanding…they went from observers to witnesses.

I wish we could have stayed to learn more of how the church is doing with their new pastor.

Jan’s thoughts:

This morning, as I asked God where He wanted us to worship, this church came clearly to mind. Although we have been here three times before, it has been 2½ years since we last worshiped here.

The signage is very good, we were warmly greeted, and there is not much to add to our previous comments.

This congregation is displaying a light for each of the Nigerian girls who were kidnapped as they pray for the girls’ safe return.

The music is blended, with a couple of traditional hymns and a praise team leading more contemporary songs.

During the children’s message the gathering of young ones was projected for all to see. I am virtually certain this is the only church where we have seen this, and it is always a joy.

In the sermon, “The Next Thing,” the pastor spoke of the “Now what?” that would certainly have been going through the minds of Christ’s followers after watching Him ascend into heaven. He pointed out that we only understand as we look back and reflect on what we have observed.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray You bring us and this church to a new level of understanding. Open us all to be more than observers. Amen.