Sunday, May 22, 2022

LifePointe Alliance Church

Today we worshiped at LifePointe Alliance Church, 997 PA Route 228, Mars, PA 16046, 724.776.9400, www.lifepointealliance.org, Rev. Joseph Toomey, Lead Pastor.

 

Scripture – Ephesians 1:3-13 NIV –

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,

 

Bob’s thoughts:

It has been a little more than three years since we last worshiped here so everything was new to me.

We found handicapped parking in front of the doors that everyone seemed to be using and located the restrooms without directional signage. The sanctuary was a little more difficult: there was a large sign with an arrow pointing up stairs which were out of the question for me. But there was an elevator which brought us to a familiar social area and there was someone to direct us to the sanctuary. Signage is helpful for visitors.

Once we were seated for worship, there was a lot of noise from the social area and I couldn’t hear the speakers till the doors finally closed.

The screens were visible even while seated, a big plus. I’m still getting used to not standing.

For the first time in a few years, the songs were familiar. It has been a long time since I could add my terrible voice to worship and it felt good.

Someone from the congregation delivered a message on names for God/Christ. There was a lot of Scripture quoted.

I was glad to hear the church still supports a lot of mission, to which we are happy to donate.

Some people said hello or waved/nodded.

 

Jan’s thoughts:

The grounds and facilities here are well cared for and beautifully decorated. I especially liked the metal butterflies adorning the garden near the entrance.

We got a cup of coffee and found seats in the back, expecting loud music. However we were pleasantly surprised with moderate volume and lovely harmonies on songs we knew and enjoyed singing.

Before the service started, several men made announcements that were addressed to those present and pointedly included those watching online.

The pastor was away so a gentleman preached who I believe was a member and a businessman. He spoke of some of the “I AM” verses and listed many Names of God. He pointed out that God chose His children before the beginning of time, and He adopted and accepted them. I loved the statement, “God signed the adoption papers with the blood of Jesus Christ.”

 

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we lift this church to You and pray their hearts are open to Your word as it is preached. We ask that You continue to bless and encourage the pastor as well as their numerous mission efforts. Amen.

No comments: