Chapel Presbyterian Church

Yesterday we worshiped at Chapel Presbyterian Church, 625 Barclay Hill Road, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.495.0297, www.chapelpca.com, Steve Maker, Senior Pastor.


Scripture – ESV

Micah 5:1-5a –

Now muster your troops, O daughter of troops; siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheek.

But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.

Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel.

And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth.

And he shall be their peace.

John 1:1 –

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:14 –

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and was have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.


Bob’s thoughts:

It was good to be at a church where we could witness Advent Candles being lit. I also found a cross on the front of the pulpit.

We were welcomed by a few people coming in and I was thanked for my service. During the passing of Christ’s peace I met one of the singers and a Marine.

I wish there was a better way to say that visitors should not feel obligated to offer their tithe as I always feel like I’m being denied the blessing of giving.

The strongest point of the message was that Christ’s coming was fulfilling the expectations and predictions in the scrolls of the Jewish people, and more so that this was known by Herod and the Wise Men, wherever they came from. It has always seemed so odd that many in that time taught from those sacred scrolls but did not accept their fulfillment in Christ.

I was pleased to be sent to pray over the pastor, and thankful for Christ’s blessing him and for taking me from nothing to such an honored use.


Jan’s thoughts:

The entryway was filled with excitement as we arrived. The Associate Pastor welcomed us and handed us bulletins, and after hanging up our coats, we found seats in the worship area.

The building is fairly new but looks untraditional from both outside and inside. The platform included both drums and a grand or baby grand piano (I was too far back to tell).

Several folks stopped to welcome us and introduce themselves prior to worship but mostly it was an opportunity to sit and watch the members interact. There were few empty seats by the time worship began, and many children.

Music was led by four vocalists and the piano. The voices blended well and the volume was perfect. A quartet presented a selection during the offertory and a trio sang following the sermon, and all were strong and enjoyable.

The narration during the lighting of the Advent Candle focused on the Church as the Body of Christ, which was unusual, I thought.

The sermon, Small Town, Great Rule, centered on the insignificance of the Town of Bethlehem versus the magnificence of Jesus Christ Who was born there. The pastor pointed out that unlike everyone else, whose life began in their mother’s womb, the earthly life of the Son of God began at His incarnation but that He existed forever before and will exist forever after that.

We appreciated our conversations with those who took time to speak with us, including the pastor.


Our prayer for this church:
His grace we give to you as it was freely given to us. May you be blessed now and throughout the New Year.

Beaver Assembly of God

Today we worshiped at Beaver Assembly of God, 500 Dutch Ridge Road, Beaver, PA 15050, 724.775.5217, www.beaverag.org, Rev. B. Timothy Michaux, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – NKJV

Ephesians 5:16 –

…redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were welcomed by quite a few people when we arrived, and offered coffee.

The sanctuary had a large rustic cross to one side and three small crosses on each window ledge. The center of the chancel was taken up with a large cross-shaped riser for a choir. The pastor explained this was for an upcoming program and would be draped with different colored cloth and lit with black lights.

The low arched ceiling is complemented by arched clear glass windows and the pews were nicely padded. I was impressed that there was sprinkler protection.

I had gone to wash something off my glasses, and when I returned I was surprised that one of the women in front of us was addressing the congregation…I’m not sure why.

The topic of the sermon was why evil exists. The pastor was quick to state that he didn’t have all the answers but did his best to cover a good deal of the subject in the time allotted. My favorite line: stop the blame game and stop taking the blame for others.

The volume for the pastor was almost painfully loud but I wasn’t sure I would be able to hear him outside the sanctuary. However, it sounded more balanced at the end as he prayed with musical accompaniment and I could hear the prayer over the instruments.

Jan’s thoughts:

We were greeted often, offered refreshments, and enjoyed an extended conversation before being pointed in the direction of the sanctuary.

Each window of the spacious area was decorated with three crosses and in the front of the sanctuary was an inclined, cross-shaped set of risers built in preparation for a special musical event on Palm Sunday. The room was beautifully decorated with unique banners.

The music was contemporary in style, presented by a fair-sized praise band, and the volume was good for the size of the room.

As is common at churches of this denomination, following the pastor’s prayer, a member spoke aloud of word of prophecy.

I was glad we could partake of Communion again today.

The message was entitled “Why Does Evil Exist?” Unquestionably a broad topic, he touched on many aspects of this, one of humankind’s most frequently asked questions. His early points included that God is not offended or intimidated by our questions.

He gave three causes for evil:

1 – Our poor choices: he reminded that we are what our choices have made us, and evil is inbred in humans.

2 –The poor choices of others: he made a powerful statement about this, that to God, free will is more valuable than the absence of evil, and when we are wishing that God would do something, we need to remember that He did: He sent Jesus to save us.

3 – God uses our poor choices to develop us: God does not create or cause evil, but He takes advantage of the opportunity to help us grow and loosen our grip on this world.

Other points I found worth noting were that when we are in the midst of trials we tend to wonder if God is getting back at us for our failures, but nothing could be farther from the truth. We must battle against the victim mindset, remember our struggles are producing eternal benefits, and yield, surrender, and cooperate with God in what He is doing in our lives.

Truly, I believe self-pity is one of Satan’s favorite tools.

Our prayer for this church:
Lord, we pray Your church’s eyes are open to Your Presence that they may continue their service and worship of You. Amen.

Four Mile Church

Today we worshiped at Four Mile Church, 6078 Tuscarawas Road, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.495.6520, www.fourmile.org, Pastor Martin Williams.

Scripture – Philippians 3:10-4:1

I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

Bob’s thoughts:

I looked forward to revisiting Four Mile because I thought it an interesting group of buildings comprising the facility, and I remembered the large back-lit cross over the curtain.

We were greeted by the usher when we came in and a couple during the time of greeting, but they were the only ones.

The dual screens make it easy to follow the music. The bass was too strong for me but I had brought my earplugs. My knees gave out before I could stand very long to sing anyway. I enjoyed the female singer’s voice.

The sermon called us to live up to what we believe. I often talk about getting a few red bricks to the head before I hear God’s call so I appreciated the reference to a “Holy Spirit whack in the head.”

The message was likened to a stone that we put in our way that keeps us from acting on what we know to be true of God. We easily accept the first road block the devil offers us.

I found this message a wonderful call from Christ to get back to the things He has called me to. No excuses, He has rolled away my stone, no more detours. Marines are known for not backing from the fight, no more demonic stones to hold me back.

I was pleased that there were elders willing to be available for prayer after the service.

Jan’s thoughts:

I recalled no details of our last visit here 4 years ago, but as we pulled into the parking lot I recalled the excellent outdoor directional signage. The building identifiers are helpful for visitors who have no idea of the purposes for the various buildings. The interior signs match and are just as abundant.

Upon entering we were greeted and handed a bulletin. We would have looked around downstairs but we did not want to intrude on whatever was going on. It turned out to be work for a worthy cause: preparations for an all-afternoon spaghetti luncheon fundraiser.

The building and grounds were tidy. The huge cross in front was suspended in front of a drape and backlit and the effect was stunning.

We found seats in the sanctuary in the very back next to the door. There were plenty of people back and forth, but no one spoke to us, which is typical at a church with more than one service.

The music was bass-heavy but well done.

The message was part 4 of a series about our responsibilities in our faith walk, this week specifically focusing on living up to and standing firm in what we believe. The pastor asserted that if someone were to try to steal our material possessions, we would fight to keep them, and we must fight to keep our spiritual blessings also. God has graciously given us all we need to live a God-honoring life, but the Enemy will do his best to take it from us and prevent us from living the life God has planned for us. We must reclaim whatever the Enemy has stolen from us…we must not give him an inch.

Scripture tells us the struggle is a constant one. The battle may belong to the Lord, but our part is important or God would not have instructed us about such mundane details as how to dress (Ephesians 6:10-17).

The congregation was invited to come to the front during the final song for individual prayers with elders, a wonderful and important ministry.

Our prayer for this church:

Dear Lord, help us all to roll away the stones we hold in place that keep us from boldly serving You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Park Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Park Presbyterian Church, 275 Commerce Street, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.775.2936, www.parkchurchbeaver.org, Rev. Mark Boyd, Pastor.

Scripture

Isaiah 65:1-9 –

“I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’

All day long I have held out my hands to an obstinate people, who walk in ways not good, pursuing their own imaginations – a people who continually provoke me to my very face, offering sacrifices in gardens and burning incense on altars of brick; who sit among the graves and spend their nights keeping secret vigil; who eat the flesh of pigs, and whose pots hold broth of impure meat; who say, ‘Keep away; don’t come near me, for I am too sacred for you!’

Such people are smoke in my nostrils, a fire that keeps burning all day.

“See, it stands written before me: I will not keep silent but will pay back in full; I will pay it back into their laps – both your sins and the sins of your ancestors,” says the Lord.

“Because they burned sacrifices on the mountains and defied me on the hills, I will measure into their laps the full payment for their former deeds.”

This is what the Lord says:

“As when juice is still found in a cluster of grapes and people say, ‘Don’t destroy it, there is still a blessing in it,’ so will I do in behalf of my servants; I will not destroy them all. I will bring forth descendants from Jacob, and from Judah those who will possess my mountains; my chosen people will inherit them, and there will my servants live.

Luke 8:26-39

They sailed to the region of the Gerasenes, which is across the lake from Galilee.

When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torture me!” For Jesus had commanded the impure spirit to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and though he was chained hand and foot and kept under guard, he had broken his chains and had been driven by the demon into solitary places.

Jesus asked him, “What is your name?”

“Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him.

And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss.

A large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside. The demons begged Jesus to let them go into the pigs, and he gave them permission. When the demons came out of the man, they went into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep back into the lake and was drowned.

When those tending the pigs saw what had happened, they ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. When they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured. Then all the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. So he got into the boat and left.

The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were greeted and introduced to so many people when we walked in, it brought back memories of being the greeter. As heartwarming as that was, the very best greeting was outside the church: as we were getting out of my truck, the family parking in front of us – turned out to be the pastor’s family – a little girl about two years old gave me a genuine smile that warmed my heart for worship.

The chancel features a great wooden cross on the wall and beautiful stained glass in a big open sanctuary that was air conditioned. I never thought air conditioning would be a consideration for worship, but as it gets harder for me to breathe, it is appreciated.

The service is interspersed with Kyrie responses followed by some special music, a solo of “It Is Well With My Soul.” This piece is bittersweet for us but it was beautifully done. The organ was loud to me but sounded like it was played with some significant talent. I thought perhaps the volume was set for the choir.

I wondered if contemporary worship is being considered as it looks like the church is in a great location with a good building ready to bring worship to the community.

The sermon, “Devil’s Dance Floor,” was based on the story of Christ exorcising the legion of demons from the possessed man and letting them go into the swine. This man was from the margins of society, a lost cause. He did nothing to be saved…didn’t even ask.

This was my salvation story. I know many prayed for me but I didn’t even ask. Christ reached into the hole and pulled me out. I did nothing to secure my undeserved salvation; I was completely overwhelmed by His grace

That the pastor got an “amen” from this Presbyterian congregation is remarkable. I found it interesting that from where we sat the pastor’s stole aligned perfectly with the parament on the pulpit; I never saw that anywhere before.

Jan’s thoughts:

We visited this church about four years ago, during their interim period, and returned to hear the new pastor.

Since I am now wearing a boot on my broken foot, I find myself taking note of handicapped accessibility and was grateful Bob parked near the ramp entrance.

We were recognized as visitors from the moment we stepped inside and the members we encountered practiced exceptional hospitality.

The music was outstanding, especially the solo of “It Is Well With My Soul.”

The sermon was entitled “Devil’s Dance Floor.” The pastor explained the several possible origins of this expression but that it basically means a lost cause, which is what the demon-possessed man was considered. He had been segregated and written off into the margins of society.

Yet, through absolutely no effort of his own, he encountered Jesus and was freed and healed…a beautiful picture of what Jesus does for us when we come to Him and find salvation.

We tend to think we had something to do with being saved, but prior to coming to faith we too are helpless and hopeless, possessed by spirits from which we attempt to free ourselves. Sometimes others try to help, but barring an encounter with Christ, we have no hope.

Praise God that He sees us, knows precisely what we need, and saves us, because we cannot save ourselves no matter how much we think we can.

Our prayer for this church:
Dear Lord, we pray You will open the eyes of this church to the ministry they can have for You and give Your church life in the community. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

First Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at First Presbyterian Church, 252 College Avenue, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.774.6398, www.fpcbeaver.com, Jeff Arnold, Senior Pastor.

Scripture: John 7:37-44

On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.

On hearing his words, some of the people said, “Surely this man is the Prophet.”

Others said, “He is the Messiah.”

Still others asked, “How can the Messiah come from Galilee? Does not Scripture say that the Messiah will come from David’s descendants and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?”

Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were a little early for the service and were reminded again of the importance of signage. We found a door to the rear of the sanctuary and were about to enter when we realized it was the end of the earlier service, so we took the stair down to explore. We ended up in the choir area, through a storage space and kitchen and on to the newer-looking space that had signage. From the size of the facility some entry signage would have helped.

A woman next to Jan said hello and thanked me for my service. I thought no one spoke thinking we were from one of the other services, so I got us both visitor bags and we carried them around a bit, but nobody noticed.

With the sun shining in the window directly above us, a window shade would help the tech see the sound mix board.

There was mention that this was Memorial Day weekend and it was tied to the image of Biblical remembering the past for the present and future. The most powerful point from the message was that as Christ poured out the Living Water for you and me, we also pour out for those to whom we minister.

Jan’s thoughts:

As we approached the building I wondered, did we want door number 1, 2, 3, or 4? My first guess was not helpful (leading to a single door toward the front of the sanctuary). Door number 2 led to a similar spot but there were stairs, so we took a tour of the lower floor. In the course of conversation with a gentleman in the kitchen we learned that remodeling is scheduled to begin this this week in many areas of the building.

We appreciated the large maps that were posted in various locations showing the layout of all three floors. In a facility this size, it was very helpful.

The worship area was large, and by the time the service started there were few if any empty seats. The woman sitting next to me welcomed us and thanked Bob for his service.

The music was phenomenal, and sounded (to me, at least) good enough to be professional.

The sermon was called “Jesus: Seeing, Believing, Knowing God.” The pastor started out talking about the sacrificial leaf of the Mangrove plant and its obvious connection to Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf.

He then explained some of the details of the Feast of Tabernacles as it was celebrated in the Old Testament. If I have it right, on the 8^th day of the Feast the priest took a pitcher of pure gold (representing Jesus Christ) and, walking under a shroud of palm branches, walked from the temple to the Pool of Siloam, filled the pitcher from the pool, returned to the temple, and poured the water (symbolizing the Holy Spirit) over the altar. He did this seven times, signifying the totality of God’s provision for His people.

It was on this the greatest day of the Feast that Jesus issued His invitation for “anyone who is thirsty,” (i.e., anyone – ANYONE – who wants to know God) to come to Him. The pastor emphasized several vital points involved in this transaction including that Christ’s promise is that Living Water will flow FROM you, not INTO you. The progression is: first we thirst, we go to Him, He fills us with the Holy Spirit, and the Spirit causes Living Water to flow from us thus nourishing others and giving us a life of purpose and meaning.

Can I just say how much I loved this sermon? I have often read the story of Jesus’ invitation to come to Him and be filled with Living Water, but knowing the Old Testament background and symbolism deepens the meaning so much more.

He also pointed out that when we are thirsty the human response is usually to try to treat it with one (or more) of the countless remedies offered by the world, but the only real cure is to take it to Jesus. Only He can fill the voids in our lives…we never could, we never will…the only solution is to come to Him just as we are.

Our prayer for this church:
Lord, we pray You encourage this church to continue to seek Your Living Water. Guide their mission efforts and lead them as a church to where You wish them to serve. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Vanport Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Vanport Presbyterian Church, 289 Georgetown Lane, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.774.8874, www.vpchurch1.org, Rev. David D. Byers, Pastor.

Scripture –

Hebrews 10:1-18

The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming – not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. If it could, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: “Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. Then I said, ‘Here I am – it is written about me in the scroll – I have come to do your will, O God.’” First he said, “Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them” (although the law required them to be made). Then he said, “Here I am, I have come to do your will.” He sets aside the first to establish the second.

And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. Since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool, because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.

The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. First he says: “This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.”

Then he adds: “Their sins are lawless acts I will remember no more.” And where these have been forgiven, there is no longer any sacrifice for sin.

Romans 13:8-14

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.

Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were greeted and warmly welcomed at the door and got to chat a bit with the greeters. The building that houses the sanctuary is new and the restrooms are right off the narthex, so signage was not much of an issue. We didn’t get to see the rest of the building so I don’t know about other signage.

The sanctuary has a large wooden cross framed by the window, and very comfortable seating arranged to provide generous spacing.

The sermon, “Countdown to Glory,” had two points that really spoke to me. The first was about worshiping God wherever we are, that worship is not confined to church. I made a similar comment to my wife this morning when we were talking about what church to visit today. Today is 6 years since our younger son was killed, and my comment was that we could worship in a large fancy church or I could sit in the mud in my garden, it would not affect my worship. Everything we do can be an act of worship, wherever we are.

Another point had to do with the teenage years and the concern that teens not be swayed by the world, that they be different in faith. Our son Dan just gravitated towards trouble, but he was never embarrassed by his faith. With all the peer pressure growing up, the world could not separate him from Christ. The stories about Dan’s standing up for his faith were a major factor in our surviving his loss.

I didn’t get to hear the rest of the sermon; I thought there would be a speaker in the quiet room where we took my grandchildren. Maybe this will be a nursing area, but I was surprised that there wasn’t a window in the door. Also I hope the outlets get covered.

I was able to rejoin the congregation for the last hymn, a favorite, “Here I Am, Lord.” Perhaps it was a new song to the church, but the passion was missing.

Jan’s thoughts:

The stonework and the A-frame design of this building make it particularly attractive. The paved lot provides great parking.

We were greeted immediately upon entering, and shortly thereafter our daughter, son-in-law and grandtwins joined us. The little ones, of course, were charming conversation-starters.

The Sanctuary is simple and elegant with comfortable chairs and ample legroom.

We typically sit in the back because much more often than not the volume is too much for our ears, but today I found myself wishing we were further forward as I could barely hear the worship assistant. I was able to hear the preacher much better though.

The bulletin consisted of three 8 ½ x 11 pages folded in half and stapled, and is just full of information. I couldn’t help but notice next to the prayer list was a list of those serving in the military, one page was devoted to the Scripture much as we do here, and another with a suggested order to help develop the Discipline of Daily Prayer.

The pastor was on vacation so the message was presented by Mrs. Eva-Maria Barr, an elder from Mill Creek Presbyterian Church and a member of the Presbytery’s Committee on Ministry.

The sermon, entitled “Countdown to Glory,” outlined Paul’s practical advice for living: do not sway from the faith or follow the culture – stand firm; we have a duty to use the spiritual gifts God gave us – use them and don’t be lazy; be content and humble.

I appreciated the message, but between my grandchildren and the anniversary of our son’s Homegoing, I had some trouble staying focused.

Our prayer for this church:
Dear Father, We pray, Lord, that You will use the members of Your Body with whom You have blessed this Church, and that the members will use their gifts to Your glory. May they do the work You have planned for them. We lift up their leaders as they discern Your will. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

First Christian Church of Beaver

Today we worshiped at First Christian Church of Beaver, 360 Iroquois Place, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.774.0518, Scott Montgomery, Pastor.

Scripture for the message – Deuteronomy 5:19:

            “You shall not steal.”

Scripture for the meditation – Isaiah 53:2-6:

“He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.

He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted.

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”

Bob’s thoughts:

The church is attractive with unusual stained glass. From the architecture, I would guess this was formerly a Methodist church.

We were warmly greeted by most of the people. I couldn’t find any signage but did get directions to the restrooms.

I found crosses to focus on and some enjoyable children to watch before the service.

Communion was different: a meditation was delivered in lieu of the Words of Institution, the elements were served silently and the congregation partook as they were served.

The sermon was part of a series on the Ten Commandments. The pastor started his message with basic baby steps, but as he preached he did a good job of leading the congregation to form the conclusions to understand the message. The sermon developed naturally with a conversational approach by the pastor. The congregation reached the right end, and, I think, felt they were part of the preaching. An interesting means of developing the message of “You shall not steal” and what it really means to God.

Jan’s thoughts:

This church is set in the midst of a residential area and was a friendly group where numerous people introduced themselves and welcomed us.

I would humbly suggest that some signage would be helpful for visitors.

Worship began with three hymns in succession, the third as an introduction to Communion. There was also a meditation built around Isaiah 56:2-6, quoted above.

During Communion an announcement on the screen invited anyone unable to attend worship but wishing to receive the sacrament to call the church office and an elder or deacon would bring it to them at home.

The message was based on the Eighth Commandment found in Deuteronomy 5:19: “You shall not steal.” The teaching was well constructed and delivered. The pastor made a distinction between envy and jealousy: “Jealousy is when someone else has something and you wish you had it…you are discontent. Envy is when someone else has something and you don’t want them to have it. Envy is rooted in disrespect of someone’s life.” He also pointed out that one cannot love their neighbor and steal from him.

I’ve heard few other pastors lay it on the line so directly, and I appreciated his approach to teaching as well as his invitations for questions following the message.

First Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at First Presbyterian Church, 252 College Avenue, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.774.6398, www.fpcbeaver.com., Rev. Jeff Arnold, Senior Pastor.


Bob’s thoughts:

This church has very good signage, including a “you are here” kind of site map at two of the entrances I used. It is a large enough facility that the map was appreciated.

We were welcomed by a number of people (at a 3-service church) and an extensive introduction by one man who didn’t give his name.

The blended service was in the fellowship hall which we found by accident while touring. The fellowship hall was an addition and some of the original stone wall and glass was incorporated. I noticed there was sprinkler protection, a real asset for a church.

Got a peek at the awesome Sanctuary – great wood work and stained glass. Also creative placement of crosses in both the Sanctuary and fellowship hall.

I thought the voices of the praise team blended very well. The screens were not used for this service, but this was explained by a note in the bulletin seeking someone to run a PowerPoint for the 9 a.m. service. We were told that the church has about 600 members. An impressive new members class was received and the service we attended was about at its limit.

The sermon, “What Does Recovery Look Like,” was delivered in two parts with a time of Confession of Sin in the middle. I pray the congregation felt the affect of “I Surrender All.” I thought it was very powerful.

Some of the sermon connected Matthew 5 and the 12-step program. The message was delivered well and I appreciated the obvious, heartfelt passion of the pastor. Too often I hear Christ’s message given with the passion of a rock. How can anyone believing Christ not be on fire in the Spirit to tell of Him?

I noted good evidence of extensive mission efforts and the offering was taken in response to the Word.

The Statement of Faith was spoken together as a benediction followed by the benediction by the pastor.

A highlight for me – a reminder was given of a prayer meeting for Haiti later in the day.

Jan’s thoughts:

With the stone exterior I expected an old church, and in some ways I was correct: this church is over 200 years old. However, they’ve certainly kept up with the times with a beautiful renovation inside including an addition, abundant signage inside and out, well-kept premises, a very informative website, and a move into the world of multi-site churches.

There may have been other parking, but the only parking we saw was on the front street where there were sandwich-boards indicating reserved parking for seniors. We walked past a ramped entrance where there was a sign indicating the direction of the main entrance. Once inside that door, however, we found ourselves in a small foyer adjoining the Sanctuary where, unfortunately, the early worship service was in progress. As we had just come in from the cold rain, we opted to head for the doors across the side of the Sanctuary as quietly and unobtrusively as possible, hopefully not distracting the worshipers in the process.

The Sanctuary, however, is quite beautiful with dark wood boasting intricate details on the ceiling, lovely stained-glass windows, and gorgeous chandeliers.

With three services (traditional at 8 and 11:15 and the one we attended, a blended service, at 9), we expected not to be recognized as visitors. Instead we were welcomed by several people who took a chance and asked if we were new there and who then extended an invitation to the adult Sunday school classes. Prior to worship, one gentleman took the time to tell us a little about the church’s missions and history along with the multi-site plans.

Worship was held in a large multi-purpose room and was crowded. The music was mostly contemporary, but extremely well done and with a beautiful sound by 4 or 5 women and 3 men. The bulletin is one 11 x 17 sheet folded in half and today included one insert with photos and a few words about each of the 25 new members who officially joined today.

The pastor was dynamic and passionate in his preaching. It took some effort for me to remain unbiased as he reminded me very much of a dear friend.

One of the new programs starting up next month is called “Celebrate Recovery.” It originated at Saddleback Church and is a Christ-centered version of the 12-step recovery program used at AA, NA, and probably numerous other organizations. It aims at seeking God’s healing to recover from habitual sins in our lives, and the sermon was about recovery based on the Beatitudes. The sermon outline gave specific steps based on Matthew 5 to aid in this quest for healing and recovery. Interestingly, he gave the first half of the message then stopped and we had the Confession, Assurance, and Response, then part two of the sermon. The sermon included some congregational participation, and the music, most of which was new to me, was powerful. I plan to keep the words to “I Will Change Your Name” just to read and reflect upon:

I Will Change Your Name
I will change your name, you shall no longer be called wounded, outcast, lonely or afraid.
I will change your name, your new name shall be confidence, joyfulness, overcoming one, faithfulness, friend of God, one who seeks my face.
Powerful words and a thought-provoking message that touched my heart.

Since this is part 3, I plan to access previous and subsequent sermons via the website in order to catch up. I’m pretty certain they’ll be worth the time.

Four Mile Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Four Mile Presbyterian Church, 6078 Tuscarawas Road, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.495.6520, www.fourmile.org, Rev. R. Martin Williams.


Bob’s thoughts:

We decided to go back to Four Mile to experience the second service. It surprises me sometimes what you notice on a second visit. I remember the impressive cross over the drapery, and how the back-lighting made it stand out. Today it seemed that the cross was on fire…maybe that was just for me. The congregation was more animated than our last visit, and there were a lot of children present. I was pleased that the offering was taken in response to the Word.

I had the opportunity to look at the July and August newsletters and noted more references to outward mission.

The church seems education-oriented, and of note to me was a grief-sharing class lasting 13 weeks. Much better effort than most churches offer.

The sermon started out as a good Bible-based message. Unfortunately, pain forced me to stand and I missed a good bit of the sermon. While I was standing in the narthex, I found what was for me the highlight of our visit: on the information table was a Sunday worship feedback form with questions and room for comments. I was very impressed.

Jan’s thoughts:

Today was our second visit to this church. When we attended the 9:30 service we were told the 11:00 service was livelier and well-attended, so today we were able to see that they were absolutely right about that.

It’s a nicely laid out facility with mostly good signage, except for the restrooms right off the narthex. The signs are placed on the front of the doors, which is fine when the door is closed, but I nearly walked through the open men's room door because I didn’t see the sign until I was a step through the door. (I’ve just GOT to quit walking through the first restroom door I see…) My suggestion is to place the sign so that it protrudes into the open space so that someone can tell (from across the room, if necessary) which door they are headed for.

A few of the adults greeted us by nodding to us on our way in, but as is so often the case when a church has two services, no one really knows if you attend the other service or if you’re really a visitor. For most, their comfort level decides for them that you’re probably not a visitor and therefore don’t need to be greeted.

The music at this church is really superb. The musicians are all male (why, I don’t know…) and are quite talented. I was very glad we sat in the last row because the volume must have been cranked all the way up – I could literally FEEL the bass. But their sound is excellent, the screen graphics are attention-grabbers, and one of the songs they performed today was an original composition. Obviously a very gifted group.

The message was from the current sermon series entitled “Winning the Battles for Life” and was based on I John 4:1-21. The part I heard most loudly was that our lives matter to God and that our battles matter to God also. I appreciated the note at the bottom of the sermon notes: “Whatever it takes, wherever it leads, Jesus – let You be seen in me.” Amen to that.

Four Mile Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Four Mile Presbyterian Church, 6078 Tuscarawas Road, Beaver, PA 15009, 724.495.6520, Rev. R. Martin Williams.


Bob’s thoughts:

We were early and had some time to tour around the church. Outside there is a sign on the doors to the worship center which is the only apparent one. There was a fair amount of interior signage but nothing directing from the Sanctuary to restrooms or child care. The large backlit cross in front of dark drapes was very effective. We also saw some great banners and a most unusual plaque. People we met on our tour were friendly and introduced themselves.

After seeing the ancient hymnal in the pew, we felt fortunate that this was a contemporary service. There seemed to be a good comfort system that brought in cool outdoor air. I noticed a child care paging system, and in addition to the dual projector screens there were two monitors on the first pew for the worship team. The worship atmosphere was quite pleasant.

The sermon was part of a series titled “Home Security Systems,” identifying threats to our family and marriage and recommending safeguards. Being Mother’s Day I thought it would have been an easy segue to mothers, but there were some very good points made and the pastor knew when to end his message. An instructor once told me it takes two people to paint a great watercolor – one painting and one to tell you when to stop. For maximum effect, that lesson is important in sermons also.

I was disappointed that the offering was not taken in response to the Word, but was completely overwhelmed by the song sung during Communion, “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us.” The words were perfect and the harmony of the three men who sang was a delight.

There seemed to be a lot of confusion over partaking of the elements of Communion. With no instruction given, we watched the congregation, and some took as they were served while others waited. Most took the juice at the pastor’s lead. The Communion elements were offered in silence, and it did not seem like Communion without a benediction.

We did get to speak to the music director after the service and relay our appreciation of the Communion song.

The welcome packet was well put together, although no one offered one, I happened to see them and took one. I also was able to look at April and May newsletters. There seems to be some good internal mission, but not so much outward.

Jan’s thoughts:

The building is newer, with a paved parking lot and excellent signage in the parking lot. We arrived early, providing an opportunity to tour the facilities prior to the service. Nearly everyone we encountered on our tour greeted us, which is remarkable in itself. Both floors and the balcony were well maintained and clean. We saw a large kitchen, well arranged and appointed. The facilities also house a day care center and a food pantry.

The indoor signage was plentiful, though they did not protrude so as to be seen from down the hall.

At the back of the Sanctuary is a prayer room that’s utilized as a cry room during worship.

We knew there were two services, and when we entered and heard three men rehearsing a contemporary song we figured we’d lucked out and happened to be attending the contemporary service. To our surprise we were told both services are the same, i.e., both are contemporary, the only difference being that the 11:00 service is attended by a somewhat younger crowd and tends to be more vocal and animated. (We plan to attend an 11:00 service sometime just for the experience.)

The Sanctuary is impressive: clean, nicely painted and decorated, with an airy, open feel and plenty of seating on the main level and additional room in the balcony. The Chancel per se was replaced by a stage due to the format of both services. A large backlit cross hangs on the rear wall of the stage, lovely and striking in its simplicity. Projection screens hang on each side and large monitors are placed in view of the worship leaders.

Judging from a metal sculpture in the hallway and the banners in the Sanctuary as well as additional banners saw hanging in a storage area we stumbled upon, some members are quite gifted and use their gifts to glorify God in the physical building.

We were warmly greeted by many people before and during the service.

The bulletin is one 8 ½” x 14” sheet folded so as to create a flap on the right side of the page so the final size of the bulletin is 8 ½” x 5 ½”. It’s clearly arranged and contains lots of information – except for the pastor’s name, surprisingly enough. The half-sheet insert contained a brief Order of Worship on one side and space for note-taking on the other. Since I rarely take notes during a sermon, my initial thought was there was no way I’d need that much space, but by the time the sermon was over I had used the entire page – including the margins – to note all the sermon points I wanted to remember.

There were two things I didn’t find in the bulletin: as I already mentioned, one is the pastor’s name, and the second is the Scripture upon which the message was based.

The congregation remained seated while Communion was served, but with no written or verbal instruction, we were unsure when to partake of the elements.

The sermon series was titled “Home Security Systems” and today’s was called “Intruder Alerts.” The pastor pinpointed specific, concrete considerations about the strength of our marriage and family relationships. Some of the points I found particularly interesting included: family relationships matter to God; our marriage is not our own – we are stewards, not owners; relationships and worship are related; our marriage and relationships are targeted by Satan and can have consequences to many future generations. We need to stay on the alert so as to honor God with how we treat those we love and live with. We will have to give an account for what He’s entrusted to us, and we need to live with the end in mind. Amen.

Park Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Park Presbyterian Church, 275 Commerce Street, Beaver, PA 15009, www.parkchurchbeaver.org.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were very early for the service and had time to tour most of the facility. The weather was mild so it was especially nice that we were able to walk around the outside of the building. There are many parking spaces designated for visitors and the handicapped, and the church has addressed those needs with an elevator and wheelchair ramp (although partially blocked by a bicycle when we walked by).

A lot of attention has been paid to maintenance and updating and blending very well with the 1900 church building. The inside would benefit from some directional signage, but the rooms were well marked. The Sanctuary features very impressive wood work and stained glass and the consistent color ties the pews to the Chancel. The pews are arranged in an arc with a large wooden arch tying in the rear seating. There is a large cross on the wall with a purple drape hung unevenly, which I think looks best.

I don’t remember having been in any other church where more people greeted us warmly, some with excellent phrasing (“Here’s someone I don’t recognize.”). Much more so, people remembered things on which we commented and brought others by who shared that interest or involvement. We were not encouraged to join, but to come back.

We were blessed with an excellent bongo accompaniment to the contemporary songs and then to witness a baptism. I was impressed that 13 of the 15 members of the choir sang along with the contemporary praise music. I also took pleasure in the cross decorating the front of the choir robes.

Although I was disappointed, as always, that the offering was taken before the Word was preached, I did appreciate the call to the offering, which referred to bringing “His tithes and our offerings.”

The sermon seemed to be kind of loose to start. I think the minister had trouble relating to the theme. But after some seemingly random contemplation it came together again with the thought of adversity and our interaction with God when we need Him most; that special understanding that brings us to be able to praise God in the midst of our trials.

The Annual Report reflects a healthy mission budget. The bulletin offers a staffed prayer room open daily, a grief mission, and others – good signs of a healthy church. The week’s schedule was full indicating good stewardship of the facilities.
Jan’s thoughts:

We arrived quite early and the weather was pleasant so we took a walk around the building. The visitor’s parking, marked from the street, was plentiful as were regular parking spaces. The building is very old (date on the cornerstone is 1904) and we learned an addition had been completed in 1930. Renovations were finished about six years ago, and the building looks very well-kept. The stone on the outside of the building, however, has a strange reddish cast to it. I couldn’t help but think that, though probably expensive, a good cleaning would make the place look like new.

Inside we were greeted by a Deacon who took the time to tell us all about the history of the building, details of some of the stained glass windows, and past locations where the church met. There was a visitor’s center in the small narthex right inside the door and at least one more further in the building.

After talking with a couple more people, we took a self-guided tour of the building, including the downstairs kitchen (huge, well designed, and well cared-for) and the classrooms upstairs. Everywhere we went more people asked if we were visiting and introduced themselves.

One wall near the library was dedicated to pictures and information about Africa, and I commented to the woman who was with us at that point that I had been there twice. Before we left we were approached by one of the women we had met who indicated she is the chair of the Mission Commission, and she invited me to speak to them at their next meeting in early April about my experiences in mission. Of course I agreed.

Signage was abundant, clear, and consistent in style (i.e., if we were looking for directions we looked for a green sign with white letters – very helpful).

We’ve been visiting churches for a while, and of all the churches we’ve visited, more members identified us as visitors here than anywhere else. I lost count of the number of people who introduced themselves to us. I was bowled over.

The architecture of the Sanctuary was impressive. In addition to the stained glass windows, the ceilings were high and decorated minimally so they didn’t look cluttered. The medium-colored wood nicely complemented the tan carpeting, and the large cross on the back wall of the Chancel bore an unevenly draped purple cloth. The choir sat against the back wall facing the congregation and the Music Director hopped between the organ and the piano.

The bulletin consists of an 11x17” tri-folded sheet containing quite a bit of information plus two 8 ½ x 11” half sheets for sign-ups and a folded 8 ½ x 11” sheet of additional music. Even with all that, it worked out okay.

The sermon was titled, “Abandoned by God” and was about exactly that concern. I don’t pretend to know the pastor (Interim Pastor Rev. Eric Powell), but I give him credit for tackling a difficult-at-best topic. It’s one with which I’ve personally dealt since the death of our son Dan, so I was glad to hear him affirm toward the end of the sermon some conclusions I’ve come to after some wrestling: no, God doesn’t abandon us during difficult times, that the best thing we can do is stay close to God, trust Him, and communicate our feelings to Him honestly. I agree.