Elfinwild Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, 3200 Mt. Royal Boulevard, Glenshaw, PA 15116, 412.486.5400, www.elfinwildchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Dirk Lesnett, Pastor.


Scripture – Ephesians 6:10-20 NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.


Bob’s thoughts:

We were blessed being led here for worship today to witness two baptisms…always a joy. We got to greet a former coworker of Jan’s before the service and another good friend after worship.

I think we arrived too close to start time for anyone but the usher to greet us.

I had forgotten how much I liked the cross high on the chancel wall.

In the sermon, he mentioned that in difficult or troubled times, put your trust in God. I would offer, when you are there, nothing else will get you through but trust in God. When you have been knocked down so unbelievably and then manage somehow to stand, that’s God. No matter what, Christ will see you through.

We were thankful to have a few minutes of the pastor’s time after the service and I was glad to get a copy of the prayer list.


Jan’s thoughts:

Only after God called us to visit Elfinwild today did we realize it has been a little more than seven years since were here last.

There seemed to be a great deal of excitement in the air, and after looking at the bulletin, we realized it was because this was a special day: two little ones were being baptized!

Several people greeted us before and during the service, and I had the joy of seeing several friends from the past including a former coworker and his wife.

The contemporary music was a surprise, along with the praise team. They were delightful though, the volume was perfect, and I enjoyed it very much.

As it is now back-to-school season for college students, the pastor asked those who will leave for college to come forward for prayer. It was a warm send-off during which he reminded parents that their “children” were actually leaving home, and when they returned, it would be for the purpose of a visit. In my experience, that’s absolutely true and almost impossible to comprehend until it happens. It’s also very hard.

The pastor explained the basis of this summer’s message series is the meaning and interpretation of the supporting Scripture of the intricate stained-glass designs adorning the windows in the sanctuary. Today the design was the Shield of Faith based on the Scripture above.

He reminded everyone that we are involved in a spiritual battle, whether or not we like it, and the Shield of Faith is given by God as a guard for our lives and hearts against the fiery arrows Satan means to destroy God’s people. Arrows such as the death of a loved one are large fiery arrows, but there are other arrows too, such as the loss of a friendship, a job, or a dream.

He made the point that it matters greatly in what we put our faith…better yet, in Whom: our faith must be in Jesus Christ and not in our own strength. Jesus preserves our spiritual life with God and His strength is a sure thing.

We appreciated our conversations with the pastor and with our other friends following worship.


Our prayer for this church:
Lord, we thank You for breathing life into Your church and ask that You guide and use them as You will. Amen.

Church of Our Saviour

Today we worshiped at Church of Our Saviour, 2405 Clearview Drive, Glenshaw, PA 15116, 412.486.5171, www.churchworthfinding.org, Rev. Joseph Martin, Pastor.

Scripture – Ephesians 1:1-14

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,

To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

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 to be adopted as his sons 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. And 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 will have reached their fulfillment – to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even 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 hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession – to the praise of his glory.

Bob’s thoughts:

We entered the building from the lower level parking lot and were greeted on the stair to the Sanctuary, then welcomed at the Narthex, and again as we entered the company of, at a guess, about 30 worshipers…and I think we met everyone.

The Deacon shared some current history of the church and denomination. It helped to clarify for me some of what I had read on their struggles to remain true to God’s Word.

The Sanctuary is an elongated rectangle with a domed ceiling. The Chancel area seemed to be a third of the space, and I was pleased to see more than one cross. Most of the service was projected on a screen, but from where we sat in the back it was mostly unreadable. The temperature and humidity were up, and without an occasional breeze I don’t think I could have stayed.

The sermon was the first of an 8-week study of Ephesians, today of Ephesians 1:1-14: Paul’s witness that we are called by God into sainthood, He chooses us, that we become blameless in Christ. It brought to mind my own coming to Christ. I was in the world for the first 50 years, but in retrospect I saw many times when my life was spared and my family saved. People have always said you have to accept Christ, and maybe I did. What I remember is being totally overcome and Christ taking me. In hindsight I saw many things that were preparing me, but when the time came I was completely consumed.

I thought the pastor had a genuine passion for this message, but a reluctance to speak it forcefully. Hearing and reading some of the struggles of the Anglican Church is experiencing makes it understandable.

The Deacon invited us to come and take Communion when she saw that we had not come forward.

The organ was a little too strong for the closing hymn, it drowned out the other instruments and vocals; I imagine “Amazing Grace” would be hard to play softly on an organ.

I was impressed with some little notes, like the one in the restroom indicating the location of additional supplies, light switches, etc.

Jan’s thoughts:

I was unfamiliar with the Anglican Church, so I found today’s visit extremely educational.

We were greeted immediately, warmly, and constantly by most everyone present. The family atmosphere was comfortable.

The Sanctuary was attractively decorated and color was used well. The handmade banners and paraments were works of art. Although the only sign I saw was for the restroom, no others were really necessary.

The contemporary music was a pleasant surprise, and the volume was excellent. Unfortunately, since we sat in the back of the Sanctuary, I was unable to read the words projected on the screen up front. Oh well.

The bulletin consisted of one sheet containing the vital information, including the offering of personal prayer following worship. The liturgy was unfamiliar, but similar to some other churches we’ve visited.

Today’s untitled message was the first in an 8-part series on the Book of Ephesians. The pastor reminded that God chose believers to receive His generous gift of salvation. We did nothing – indeed, could do nothing – to earn God’s lavish gift; He died for us so we could be holy and blameless in His sight.

The only way for this to happen is for the love of Christ to enter our hearts and change us from the inside.

We all need occasional reminders of God’s generosity as well as reminders of our part: to believe, receive, and trust.

Communion was offered but we chose not to partake; however the Deacon came back to make sure we knew we were welcome, and I deeply appreciated this gesture of hospitality.

Following the service we joined the congregation in their social area for refreshments and enlightening conversation. It was a blessed morning.

Our prayer for this church:
Holy Lord, the Devil has placed a stranglehold on this congregation that only You can break. We pray they sense Your care and compassion as they struggle to remain faithful to Your Word. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Elfinwild Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, 3200 Mt. Royal Boulevard, Glenshaw, PA 15116, 412.486.5400, www.elfinwildchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Dirk Lesnett, Pastor.

Scripture –

Acts 2:42-47:

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Romans 12:1-2:

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Bob’s thoughts:

God led us from the parking lot of the church we chose to where we were to meet Him in worship.

This church has undergone a major renovation since our last visit, with some areas so changed that it is hard to imagine how it looked before.

Prior to the service we had a few moments to catch up with the pastor and meet a few people. We were invited to come back and have our picture taken when they do an update of the church directory. It amazed me that the couple organizing the photo appointments are new members.

The sanctuary has great woodwork that helped to draw my attention to the wooden cross on the wall. The restrooms are identified but could use directional signage.

This is a Presbyterian church that will be celebrating 100 years soon, but they don’t act their age, nor do they behave like old stuffy Presbyterians. This church is alive and well and is about the call to “glorify and enjoy God together.”

The sermon was from Acts and Romans about our call to be the church in and for the world. Those who don’t know God may not have much of a picture of how we are in church, but they see us where we live. How much of Christ can they see in you when you are at work? The message also touched on something dear to me: the current penchant to re-imagine everything, which puts us above God. Sharing what God said, we will be the church.

God is glorified here and the pastor truly enjoys being used by Christ. I was also encouraged by some great mission numbers I found in the newsletter. This was an easy church to pray for.

Jan’s thoughts:

It has been 3½ years since our last visit here and in that time this church has been transformed – literally – with an addition between the two buildings. I was glad we were early enough to wander around and look at the area. It looks spacious and accommodating, and visitors and members alike will appreciate the directional signage that I’m sure is planned to complete the project.

In the course of our tour we happened upon a wall full of mission information, displaying a map of the Pittsburgh area, one of the United States, and one of the world, each bearing signs indicating mission support/activity in that area. According to the newsletter, Elfinwild Church is a strong supporter of mission needs, so it’s no surprise that God has blessed them so richly. Time and again I see a connection between tithing and blessings, in personal lives as well as the life of a church. Obedience matters to God and He stands behind his offer to prove it. (Malachi 3:10: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.”) This church is blessed indeed.

A co-worker/friend and his wife who belong here were not present today, but we had an unbelievably uplifting conversation with a couple who were coordinating photo times for the new photo directory. They even offered to include us, as they are extending an opportunity to participate to the community at large.

The bulletin contained a ton of information and plenty of inserts, so I was grateful that it was user-friendly. And numbering the items on the list of announcements was a stroke of brilliance, in my opinion!

It was a treat to hear the anthem presented by the Chancel Choir.

The Sermon, “Being the Church In and For the World,” was based on Acts 2:42-47 and Romans 12:1-2 (please see above). Some of his points included that prayer is about acknowledging God in submission and humility; breaking bread is indicative of Communion…it is good to remember the cost Christ paid for us; fellowship reminds us that faith in Christ is what we have in common; and teaching is a reminder that we need to ask “What has God said?” and then seek the answer in Scripture.

He said, “The best thing we can do for the world is to be the church and the people of Christ, then people will hunger to know God more. Worship is how we live.”

I went to church today with many deep questions in my heart, and I must admit that when I saw the sermon topic I thought we must have misunderstood God’s direction. I did not think this sermon would have much to say to me about the issues that were weighing on my mind, but I could not have been more mistaken. God put me precisely where I needed to be to find the answers I needed. I am sincerely grateful to Him for His gracious guidance and reassurance, and especially for His presence.

Our prayer for this church:

Awesome Lord, we pray for Your continued guidance for this church, thanking You for the blessings You have poured out. Please encourage them and grow their faith, let the joy of serving You increase. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Glenshaw Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Glenshaw Presbyterian Church, 300 Glenn Avenue, Glenshaw, PA 15116, 412.486.8400, www.glenshawchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Michael Hoyt, Pastor.


Bob's thoughts:

We were led back to Glenshaw today for the second service and this time we had the pleasure of experiencing the simple beauty of the Sanctuary. With little natural woodwork, the white and shades of blue work well. The soft shades of the stained glass work together to create a peaceful worship area. The large surrounding balcony has a solid rail with the face covered with split (original?) pickets. I couldn't help but wonder how they would have looked with contrasting color.

The bulletin carries what looks like a watermark of the church buildings and Sanctuary cross.

Handicapped needs have been attended to well, including a brand new ramp outside. I enjoyed the audio system...it was easy to hear and the speakers, though visible, were unobtrusive.

When we entered the building there was a loud blower noise but it did not carry to the Sanctuary. I understand there had been some problem with the A/C - perhaps the balcony seating might have been a better choice with a high velocity ceiling HVAC system.

This was the first church I have ever been in with straight back pews. There was a seat pad, but the backs would take some getting used to.

The children's message went well without being too long.

The sermon was part of a series on keeping the Sabbath. He explained how it changed from the Jewish Sabbath of Saturday to Saturday and Sunday, and with the Gentile influence to Sunday Sabbath. The best part was to begin with the end in mind...may we start every day, every week, every endeavor with this premise in mind. I also liked "A Christian is an eternal beginner."


Jan's thoughts:

We attended the contemporary service here in February of this year; however, the pastor was away that week. This week we opted for the traditional service in the Sanctuary, and the pastor had just returned from two weeks away. I claim no credit for it, but timing is everything!

Outside we found an impressive and, it turns out, recently completed wheelchair ramp. The signage both outside and inside was very helpful. The building is well kept and pleasantly decorated. The Sanctuary walls show three similar shades of blue with white trim, and I enjoyed the watercolor stained glass. There were interesting architectural nuances such as the use of white trim and cross on the blue wall of the Chancel, and several other items. It was all tied together well and made for a pleasing atmosphere.

I don't believe I've ever seen pews with totally straight backs...they were less comfortable than I would have expected.

The bulletin colors followed the pattern and colors of the Sanctuary - I've never seen this done before, but the effect is outstanding. The three pages are stapled and folded, and includes a page for sermon notes and guided-thought questions.

Following the Time with the Younger Church, the Pastor stood with the children, they all held hands, and the kids repeated his prayer. It was touching.

The message was part three of a series about keeping the Sabbath entitled "First Things First" and was founded on Exodus 20:8-11 and Matthew 28:1-10. The major point was that we celebrate Christ's resurrection every Sunday. I appreciated the observation that "the Sabbath is the hill of Light and Presence and the weekdays are valleys of care - we must put Christ first." Amen.

Glenshaw Valley Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Glenshaw Valley Presbyterian Church, 1520 Butler Plank Road, Glenshaw, PA 15116, 412.486.5656, www.glenshawvalleychurch.org, Rev. C. Leonard Pate Jr., Pastor.


Bob’s thoughts:

We were warmly welcomed and greeted by a number of people.

This is a beautiful Sanctuary with lots of stained glass and woodwork. Scripture was projected on two large screens, but I don’t know if the screens are used for anything else.

We did find a restroom sign…don’t know if there was any other signage. Seeing the wreaths off to the sides of the Chancel, I wondered if there was a special meaning to the congregation about which the visitor would not know.

I found an “I Wish” card in the pew that nicely covered a lot of requests. I had time to look at a newsletter and Annual Report, and the only reference to mission was a Moment for Mission during the service. “I wish” the personal confession time was a little longer.

The choir, though on the small side, was quite powerful in worship.

The offering was taken before the Word, but there was adequate time to prepare.

The sermon was on the temptation of Adam and Eve. I appreciated the reminder that God knew/knows that we will sin and loves us enough to send His Son to redeem us.

I have always wondered if Flip Wilson would have ever guessed how many times his line “The devil made me do it!” would be used in sermons.

Being able to see and hear a few cute children helped to ease my withdrawal from a too-short visit with some of my grandchildren.

I felt privileged to pray for this church and pastor.

Jan’s thoughts:

Even before we entered the building I noticed the large, intricate stained glass window. To say it is impressive is an understatement. Unfortunately some vandals had recently thrown a piece of asphalt through a corner of it, and the congregation is now collecting donations toward its repair.

The dark wood pews, ceiling, and Chancel with its red accents behind the woodwork, is all quite beautiful and well tied-together. The pews were arranged in something of an arc, which worked well.

From the moment we entered the Sanctuary people were introducing themselves and extending a warm welcome. There was much animated conversation prior to worship.

The Order of Worship is pretty much the same in most PC(USA) churches. For instance, the hymn is listed on a line at the left margin, in the center of that line is the title of the hymn, and at the right margin is the number of the piece in the hymnal. Pretty clear cut, and pretty much the same everywhere. Here, however, the lines containing more than the one item also contain leader dots (i.e., …………..) causing the eye to automatically follow across the line. I was astounded at how much easier it was to follow.

Also, the location of the Gloria Patri and the Apostles’ Creed were indicated as “623/Screen” and “inside back cover of hymnal/Screen”, to let a visitor know that they would be displayed. I’ve lost track of the number of times I’d be looking through the hymnal only to look up and find the words were projected on a screen or the wall. This is such a small thing, but a nice touch that made it a little easier for a visitor.

I admired the comfort exhibited by the woman who presented the Children’s Sermon.

The Scripture (which a lay reader read with great enthusiasm) was Genesis 3:1-7, and the sermon was titled “The Garden of Temptation.” I liked the pastor’s statement that “God should have told Adam & Eve not to eat the snake!” He spoke of “human nature” and how “the loss of innocence in the Garden of Eden led to a loss of intimacy with God.” Satan’s temptations continue today, of course, but we have a choice – we can choose not to act on those temptations.

In the Garden of Eden the choice was “our will be done” whereas in the Garden of Gethsemane it was “Your will be done.” Praise be to God for Christ’s choice!

Glenshaw Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Glenshaw Presbyterian Church, 300 Glenn Avenue, Glenshaw, PA 15116, 412.486.8400, www.glenshawchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Michael Hoyt, Pastor.


Bob’s thoughts:

We were impressed with the signage we found outside and the entry we chose had rest rooms immediately inside. I thought everything was well marked with superior directional signage.

We worshiped at an early informal service, and were disappointed that the pastor was on retreat.

A woman who welcomed us took the time to explain some of the service. We were welcomed by a number of people including a Marine who was sitting behind us. (My guess is that they didn’t need two Marines, but we were well behaved.)

The person on the piano leading music and the service has a passion for worship.

I enjoyed the large wooden cross on the wall.

The weekly Communion was offered aloud and followed by anointing by the pastor (if desired) and lighting of votive candles (also if desired). Communion was by intinction, but this was the first time I’ve had the bread pulled off and handed to me. This is something some people have trouble doing.

The sermon was on women of the Bible and focused on Abigail. I was struck by the statement that the time frame of Abigail’s husband’s shearing of sheep would have been harvest time, a celebration and giving of gifts.

I have always felt Abigail was one of those special women who could act on her husband’s behalf or cause him to act and believe what he was doing was his idea.

We were pleasantly surprised to encounter the parents of a friend worshiping there. We look forward to returning when the pastor is there. There was a lot of literature to peruse, but I was disappointed in the mission numbers and involvement. I think they are burdened by rather large endowment funds.


Jan’s thoughts:

I did some Presbytery work with the pastor of this church, and was looking forward to saying hello this morning. However we’ll have to come back, as he was on Study Leave today.

There are a number of special things about this church. First, it’s much larger than I anticipated, and well equipped to accommodate persons with handicaps. The signage was impressive. The early (informal) service is in the parlor, which was comfortable and beautifully decorated.

We were warmly welcomed by several people, especially a member of the Hospitality Committee who explained what to expect during Communion and the flow and process of it. She was extremely helpful and inviting, and all churches should have someone like her to greet visitors and provide direction with enthusiasm.

The Sacrament of Communion is celebrated by intinction weekly at this early service. The last Sunday of the month includes an opportunity for anointing with oil and then light a candle afterward. The servers made Communion personal by calling me by name and saying “The Body of Christ, broken for you,” and “The Blood of Christ, shed for you.” It was a much-appreciated reminder that although I currently hold no membership in a local church, I am still part of The Church.

The bulletin is five sheets of 8 ½ x 11 paper, folded in half and stapled in the center. It’s packed full of information and incredibly well done. The use of just a bit of color adds so much.

There seem to be educational opportunities for every age group.

A piano is the only instrument that was part of this service, and the musical leadership was excellent. Also, the acoustics were perfect.

The pulpit was supplied today by The Rev. Carolyn J. Jones. The sermon, entitled, “Dear Abby,” was based on selected verses from 1 Samuel 25 and Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16. Today was the day to celebrate “Beautiful Women Doing Beautiful Things,” and Abigail certainly falls into that category. I have always admired Abigail for her initiative and resourcefulness in behalf of a husband by whom she was undervalued and treated poorly, to say the least. She still displayed loyalty to him and to their household, which is another reason for my admiration of her: she did not allow him to drag her down to his level. She is one of the many strong women of the Bible for whose example I am grateful.

Elfinwild Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, 3200 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw, PA 15116, www.elfinwildchurch.org


Jan's thoughts:


This was our second visit to Elfinwild: we had visited last month before we started blogging, and a friend and co-worker of mine turned out to be the liturgist that week. We were surprised during the following week when someone from the church brought an edible gift to our house (which meant a lot since we're a good half hour's drive away), and my co-worker gave us some homemade chocolate chip cookies - a weakness of mine.


Elfinwild seems like a dichotomy - an old building housing a young-at-heart church. The congregation was quite warm and friendly and not at all hesitant about greeting us as we entered and then again during that time of the service.


The choir was robust, and I appreciated having the words to the anthem and offertory printed in the bulletin, as I was able to see how the theology of the music tied in with the theme of hope for the first Sunday of Advent. I was pleased when the Advent candle was lit - they lit the pink candle, which I personally believe is the correct one for the first Sunday of Advent. (I know there is some disagreement about this, but this is what I was taught.)


Andrew Lesnett did a terrific job as liturgist. I don't know how old he is, but as he gave the Offertory prayer I had a feeling he had written it himself, which his mother confirmed after the service. It was an impressive, mature prayer for someone so young.


The sermon particularly touched me. The Scripture was Matthew 7:24-29 (from the Sermon on the Mount about building one's house on the Rock), and Dirk emphasized the necessity of having a firm foundation WHEN the storms of life come.


Today marks five years since my mother's passing, and when I think of all that's happened since then, particularly the deaths of our son Dan and my dad, I felt God was using Dirk to speak directly to me. It also makes me think of how often Bob & I think we choose where we'll worship on any given week. During the benediction I was reminded again that we go nowhere by accident - wherever we are, we are because God has sent us there.


The bulletin contains LOTS of information; however, it was cumbersome. Early on, after mine slid off my lap, it took some time to figure out what was what again. I'd suggest keeping the Order of Worship on the one folded page and including the rest in the form of unfolded inserts. That way when the bulletin is folded for use during worship it's possible to insert everything inside that's not worship-related and still follow worship. Just a thought, for what it's worth.


There is much going on at this church, both inside their walls and in the community at large. The bulletin also contains a long list of prayer concerns, and people are invited to visit the chapel following worship for private prayer with a Session member. It's always encouraging when church leaders are willing to pray spontaneously with people.


Another issue is signage. Since we usually enjoy a coffee as we drive to church, one of the first things I usually need to find upon arrival is the Ladies Room. As I walked down the hallway I glimpsed a toilet and headed in, but I didn't realize I was in the wrong place until I got through the doorway and saw the urinal. I was a little startled (and glad no one appeared to have seen me!). Only then did I see the sign on the front of the door, but when the door was open the sign wasn't visible. A sign that stuck out from the wall above the room would be helpful. We really only knew the location of the Sanctuary because of our previous visit, and we'd had to explore to locate it then as there were no signs indicating its direction either.


The building is older, and the only handicapped accommodation I noticed was a chair lift. Lots of wood in the Sanctuary gives it a warm feel, and the stained glass is impressive.


I like Elfinwild's people and their pastor, and I won't hesitate to visit again.


Bob's thoughts:


This was a return trip to Elfinwild on the first Sunday of Advent and we received warm greetings and welcome back. Elfinwild has the appearance of being "old" Presbyterian - cathedral ceiling, interesting windows, ornate woodwork, but with a decidedly country warmth. There is a large cross above the chancel - very important to me and sadly lacking in many churches.


Even on our second visit we could have used signage. Rest rooms themselves were marked, but there were no direction signs.


Common-sense thinking went into the need for more hymnal space, with carpet on the bottom of the holder to help with noise. I've seen much more elaborate schemes, but this was a very effective adaptation.


I found the bulletin very confusing, large with a lot of information, but requiring a lot of jumping around.


I was impressed during the passing of the peace, the young people who joined in is a sign of a healthy church.


The acoustics were very good, which is hard to accomplish with church architecture. The organ did tend to drown out the voices - don't know if that was a bad thing, but the passion came across.


I was disappointed that the offering came before the Word.


I felt truly blessed to be present when the pastor's young son Andrew was serving as liturgist. I thought he did an excellent job and was quite pleased to learn that he wrote his own prayer.


Two important thoughts from the sermon (as I heard it): we are called to be Christ followers, not to be like Christ followers, and most importantly, that we are not just given one chance. Our heavenly Father knows our faults and failures and will keep welcoming us back, thanks be unto God.


I don't believe the elements of Communion should ever by offered by telepathy. The words are important and should be stated boldly because it's very personal.


Elfinwild is forming a Technology Team, which seems like an excellent start. They're also opening up ushering and greeting responsibilities to laity, sharing the blessing.


Lastly, I saw some great numbers about missions (I feel the best sign of Christ's healthy church), but could find little mention of what these missions might be.