Today we worshiped at Northmont United Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, 412.364.0105, www.northmontchurch.org, Rev. Dr. John J. Lolla, Pastor.
Bob’s thoughts:
We were blessed to be redirected to church today, and doubly blessed to lay hands and pray for dear friends being commissioned for a mission trip to Malawi, Africa.
It has been a while since we last visited Northmont, but I don’t remember such prominent signage. The signs were colorful, easy to read, and in-house signs seemed more welcoming than commercial.
The church has attended well to handicapped access with ramps and an elevator. The Sanctuary is in a T shape with an impressive wood beamed ceiling. I appreciated the large cross with white drape suspended from the ceiling as a great focal point.
The time of silent confession wasn’t near long enough for me, and I thought the Children’s Message was a little long.
The gospel solo was great and the pairing with the organ was excellent: they complemented each other and did not over-power. The organist was very good and his playing came as worship, not “hear me roar.”
The sermon spoke to me about how the ministry of the church is to prepare for mission. We try to separate ourselves from the sinful world, but the God we worship was found in the world. From that very premise of God we cannot withdraw into self, but must let Him make use of us. Jesus is the final authority and He calls us to get into the world.
My regular morning prayer time of thanksgiving starts with thanking God for one more day. Normally the next thing I give thanks for is bringing us to where we are and blessing us with His peace. It is a very comfortable place, like the church, but I think He has given us rest and time to recover and is preparing to send us out. I don’t know what or where it will be but “Here I am, Lord.”
There was mention of the Malawi Partnership being mutual, but I’m not so sure…so much of what we give (especially money) is given from our excess, but what they share with us is Jesus Christ. It seems pretty lop-sided.
I was pleased to lift the pastors and congregation of this church in prayer. I was once told the best the church could be was empty because we were all out doing mission work.
Jan’s thoughts:
Sometimes it’s remarkable how God gets us to the church He wants us to attend. We had heard through the grapevine that this was the morning Bill and Nancy Paul would be commissioned to take part in the Presbytery trip to Malawi this week, and we wanted to be there to see our friends off on this journey. However I had forgotten, and planned to attend another church until this morning the Spirit reminded me and I knew He wanted us here instead.
We have visited this church twice before, and I believe it has become even friendlier than it was previously, as witnessed by one member who greeted us before we even entered the building.
The directional signage was exceedingly helpful and the signs that protrude from the wall are the best. Display boards were everywhere detailing numerous and varied mission involvement. This seems like one of the most mission-oriented churches we’ve attended.
The organist was a joy to hear, and the solo, a spiritual, was beautifully done, the kind of music that feeds the soul.
The sermon entitled “Why Are You Looking Up?” originated in John 17:6-19 and Acts 1:6-14 and was delivered by Rev. Dr. Hetz Marsh. In the midst of hearing this message I realized it was a large part of the reason God wanted us at this church today. He spoke to the issue of being IN the world but not OF it, but also engaging a world comprised of people whom God loved enough to have sent His only Son to give His life to save. Instead of separating ourselves from the world we need to go out into it and expect to find God there…we must risk living completely in the real world because it is through a life given away to the world that we experience the full joy of Christ. (“Whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it.” Luke 9:24)
This sermon was one more “heads-up” message that God may soon change the focus of our personal efforts. I don’t know how long it will be, but change is coming.
I felt so grateful to be present for the Service of Commissioning for Bill and Nancy Paul as they return to Malawi. This is a milestone for the Partnership, and Malawi still holds a special place in my heart as well as for so many others from Pittsburgh and Blantyre both. I was enormously privileged to take part in the laying on of hands and prayer. Those present promised to pray for the pilgrims, and if you are reading this and are inclined to pray, I would urge you to do so. It’s the best gift you can give in these (or any) circumstances, and you’ll be blessed as well!
Showing posts with label Northmont United Presbyterian Church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Northmont United Presbyterian Church. Show all posts
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Northmont United Presbyterian Church
Today we worshiped at Northmont United Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, 412.364.0105, www.northmontchurch.org, Rev. Dr. John J. Lolla, Pastor.
Bob’s thoughts:
We visited Northmont to hear their new pastor and because of its proximity to a later visit. Northmont has a most impressive Sanctuary, great woodwork and wooden beams across an arched ceiling and a central cross suspended that all works very well together. Although doors are marked, they could benefit from some directional signage: restrooms, elevator, handicapped restroom, etc.
I enjoyed the children’s sermon; it was encouraging to hear one aimed at the children. We were especially pleased to hear the brass ensemble by the Eisenreichs and Scott Eisenreich’s solo of “Mary, Did You Know?” The bulletin was way more awkward than it needed to be, but there was a lot of information.
The pastor’s message was on moving ahead in faith in God, being free to be dependent on Christ. To not let ourselves be held back by our past. When I thought the message seemed to run on a bit I was reminded the message I hear may be very different from what someone else heard.
Jan’s thoughts:
We needed to be in the area early this afternoon, so we opted to visit Northmont to see and hear their new pastor. After arriving and receiving a bulletin, we learned that some friends were presenting the music this morning, so that was a surprise treat.
Even with all the snow still on the ground, the parking lot was well tended to and mostly clean.
We sat toward the back of the Sanctuary which gave us a great view of the woodwork on the ceiling and the rear wall of the Chancel. It’s a very attractive space with the matching wood all around and painted surfaces, especially on the ceiling.
The people were friendly, many greeting us both prior to the service and during worship. It was heartening to see so many children come forward for the children’s sermon, and I enjoyed listening to the young woman who spoke to the children as she had a pleasant, confident voice.
The bulletin contains lots of information; however, it was cumbersome. For what it’s worth, 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.
I’ve heard of Dr. Lolla for many years but had not met him - and technically still haven’t, but at least now I know who he is. His manner is exceptionally pastoral, his voice is calm, and his bearing is humble and trustworthy. I’m sure the effect of his ministry on this church will bring glory to God.
The sermon was titled “Moving Ahead↑” and was based on Philippians 3:7-14. After hearing it I knew why God had sent us there today. He spoke of moving forward in the face of change, and in the process depending upon God to free us from the prison of the past and to be our safety net as we walk the tightrope into an unknown future. I believe this message spoke to the needs of this congregation and I know it spoke to mine.
Bob’s thoughts:
We visited Northmont to hear their new pastor and because of its proximity to a later visit. Northmont has a most impressive Sanctuary, great woodwork and wooden beams across an arched ceiling and a central cross suspended that all works very well together. Although doors are marked, they could benefit from some directional signage: restrooms, elevator, handicapped restroom, etc.
I enjoyed the children’s sermon; it was encouraging to hear one aimed at the children. We were especially pleased to hear the brass ensemble by the Eisenreichs and Scott Eisenreich’s solo of “Mary, Did You Know?” The bulletin was way more awkward than it needed to be, but there was a lot of information.
The pastor’s message was on moving ahead in faith in God, being free to be dependent on Christ. To not let ourselves be held back by our past. When I thought the message seemed to run on a bit I was reminded the message I hear may be very different from what someone else heard.
Jan’s thoughts:
We needed to be in the area early this afternoon, so we opted to visit Northmont to see and hear their new pastor. After arriving and receiving a bulletin, we learned that some friends were presenting the music this morning, so that was a surprise treat.
Even with all the snow still on the ground, the parking lot was well tended to and mostly clean.
We sat toward the back of the Sanctuary which gave us a great view of the woodwork on the ceiling and the rear wall of the Chancel. It’s a very attractive space with the matching wood all around and painted surfaces, especially on the ceiling.
The people were friendly, many greeting us both prior to the service and during worship. It was heartening to see so many children come forward for the children’s sermon, and I enjoyed listening to the young woman who spoke to the children as she had a pleasant, confident voice.
The bulletin contains lots of information; however, it was cumbersome. For what it’s worth, 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.
I’ve heard of Dr. Lolla for many years but had not met him - and technically still haven’t, but at least now I know who he is. His manner is exceptionally pastoral, his voice is calm, and his bearing is humble and trustworthy. I’m sure the effect of his ministry on this church will bring glory to God.
The sermon was titled “Moving Ahead↑” and was based on Philippians 3:7-14. After hearing it I knew why God had sent us there today. He spoke of moving forward in the face of change, and in the process depending upon God to free us from the prison of the past and to be our safety net as we walk the tightrope into an unknown future. I believe this message spoke to the needs of this congregation and I know it spoke to mine.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Northmont United Presbyterian Church
Today we worshiped at Northmont United Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, www.northmontchurch.org.
Bob’s thoughts:
We entered and left via what turned out to be the Education wing and were impressed with the signs that projected out into the hall as well as the number of children in the rooms. Although the interior signage was sufficient, hopefully there was some signage outside the other entrances.
More than a few greeted us, and several offered us coffee. We were early and had more time than usual to look through the facility and speak with the pastor. In our travels around the building we found a very well-done welcome packet: well laid out, multicolored pages, including a lot of information that is usually missing. Also got to see a very new and well-organized kitchen. There is notable evidence of good involvement in various missions.
The Sanctuary is impressive, a good mix of woodwork and painted surfaces. There is a large cross suspended from the ceiling which somehow seems out of place, I think because from the pews it interferes with some ornate woodwork in the back of the chancel.
There were a few pleasant surprises: my friend Andrew (5 years old) was there to worship with his parents; we were blessed to hear David Hughey’s rich baritone solos; and were able to go forward to lay hands to ordain a Deacon, during which there is always a powerful Christ presence. There are numerous Stephen Ministers; one was identified for hospital visits that week and others available for prayer after the service.
A Parish Associate delivered the sermon, “The Spark That Ignites a Fire,” and touched some good points. I agree completely that coming in humility to Christ for healing is prerequisite, but I’m not sure of the context in which he meant obedience is required. I would contend that we are never ready for Christ to intercede in our livesand we’ll never be worthy of Christ’s grace. I think the point of the sermon came across better during the benediction.
I was pleased that the offering was taken in response to the Word.
I always wonder about the things we can’t assess at one visit, but today, at least, other than the children, the Church lacked spirit. I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit, but the congregation seemed tired and lifeless.
This is a good facility with great potential. While their search for pastoral leadership advances, I hope they pray to discern Christ’s direction for Northmont and find a vibrant pastor to take them forward.
Jan’s thoughts:
This was our first visit to Northmont, where Rev. Dr. Don Ewing is the Interim Pastor and Rev. Alick Kennedy is a Parish Associate. This day Rev. Kennedy preached.
The building is older, well-kept, with very good signage, including many signs indicating the location of an AED. The kitchen contained many stainless appliances, and obvious pride and care was taken in this area. Overall the building had a very “homey” feel which made me believe the congregation was very much like a family. (True or not, I don’t know, that’s just how it felt.)
The Sanctuary was appealing: red carpet in the center aisle and chancel area, white walls, very dark wood beams with more white on the ceiling, and matching wooden cross-type decoration on the rear wall of the chancel. Beautiful stained glass in the Sanctuary also.
The people were friendly, with some initiating and maintaining longer conversations, but some were quite reserved. We encountered some people we knew from another church, so we sat with friends.
It was an honor to unexpectedly find ourselves able to participate in the ordination and installation of a young lady to the office of Deacon.
The bulletin was well assembled with two 8 ½ x 14 sheets arranged with the Order of Worship on the one sheet and announcements on the other and no papers to worry about keeping track of.
There were plenty of announcements and information in the bulletin including Stephen Ministers, dinners, Youth Group activities, a military list, food banks, book clubs, Presbytery events, and formation of a Designated Pastor Nominating Committee.
The guest soloist, David Hughey, was a joy to hear with his rich baritone.
I found myself in some disagreement with the sermon (which was recapped in the benediction) in which he indicated that healing is a result of our obedience and approaching God in humility. I believe both are vital, but my conflict arises from the idea that we must obey God before He will heal us. I believe God’s grace supersedes our obedience (or lack of it) just as His salvation, more often than not, supersedes our knowledge of its necessity. It’s just possible that God might use the healing to bring us to obedience. Of course it’s always better to do it God’s way and obey humbly, but I don’t know too many people who aren’t saved (or healed) in spite of themselves.
Bob’s thoughts:
We entered and left via what turned out to be the Education wing and were impressed with the signs that projected out into the hall as well as the number of children in the rooms. Although the interior signage was sufficient, hopefully there was some signage outside the other entrances.
More than a few greeted us, and several offered us coffee. We were early and had more time than usual to look through the facility and speak with the pastor. In our travels around the building we found a very well-done welcome packet: well laid out, multicolored pages, including a lot of information that is usually missing. Also got to see a very new and well-organized kitchen. There is notable evidence of good involvement in various missions.
The Sanctuary is impressive, a good mix of woodwork and painted surfaces. There is a large cross suspended from the ceiling which somehow seems out of place, I think because from the pews it interferes with some ornate woodwork in the back of the chancel.
There were a few pleasant surprises: my friend Andrew (5 years old) was there to worship with his parents; we were blessed to hear David Hughey’s rich baritone solos; and were able to go forward to lay hands to ordain a Deacon, during which there is always a powerful Christ presence. There are numerous Stephen Ministers; one was identified for hospital visits that week and others available for prayer after the service.
A Parish Associate delivered the sermon, “The Spark That Ignites a Fire,” and touched some good points. I agree completely that coming in humility to Christ for healing is prerequisite, but I’m not sure of the context in which he meant obedience is required. I would contend that we are never ready for Christ to intercede in our livesand we’ll never be worthy of Christ’s grace. I think the point of the sermon came across better during the benediction.
I was pleased that the offering was taken in response to the Word.
I always wonder about the things we can’t assess at one visit, but today, at least, other than the children, the Church lacked spirit. I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit, but the congregation seemed tired and lifeless.
This is a good facility with great potential. While their search for pastoral leadership advances, I hope they pray to discern Christ’s direction for Northmont and find a vibrant pastor to take them forward.
Jan’s thoughts:
This was our first visit to Northmont, where Rev. Dr. Don Ewing is the Interim Pastor and Rev. Alick Kennedy is a Parish Associate. This day Rev. Kennedy preached.
The building is older, well-kept, with very good signage, including many signs indicating the location of an AED. The kitchen contained many stainless appliances, and obvious pride and care was taken in this area. Overall the building had a very “homey” feel which made me believe the congregation was very much like a family. (True or not, I don’t know, that’s just how it felt.)
The Sanctuary was appealing: red carpet in the center aisle and chancel area, white walls, very dark wood beams with more white on the ceiling, and matching wooden cross-type decoration on the rear wall of the chancel. Beautiful stained glass in the Sanctuary also.
The people were friendly, with some initiating and maintaining longer conversations, but some were quite reserved. We encountered some people we knew from another church, so we sat with friends.
It was an honor to unexpectedly find ourselves able to participate in the ordination and installation of a young lady to the office of Deacon.
The bulletin was well assembled with two 8 ½ x 14 sheets arranged with the Order of Worship on the one sheet and announcements on the other and no papers to worry about keeping track of.
There were plenty of announcements and information in the bulletin including Stephen Ministers, dinners, Youth Group activities, a military list, food banks, book clubs, Presbytery events, and formation of a Designated Pastor Nominating Committee.
The guest soloist, David Hughey, was a joy to hear with his rich baritone.
I found myself in some disagreement with the sermon (which was recapped in the benediction) in which he indicated that healing is a result of our obedience and approaching God in humility. I believe both are vital, but my conflict arises from the idea that we must obey God before He will heal us. I believe God’s grace supersedes our obedience (or lack of it) just as His salvation, more often than not, supersedes our knowledge of its necessity. It’s just possible that God might use the healing to bring us to obedience. Of course it’s always better to do it God’s way and obey humbly, but I don’t know too many people who aren’t saved (or healed) in spite of themselves.
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