Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Avenue, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.


Scripture – Isaiah 60:1-6

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.

“Lift up your eyes and look about you: All assemble and come to you; your sons come from afar, and your daughters are carried on the hip. Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy; the wealth on the seas will be brought to you, to you the riches of the nations will come. Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the Lord.


Bob’s thoughts:

We were pleased to be worshiping at Southminster for Dan Merry’s last day leading the service.

I thought it was ironic that first song was Breathe since I was having so much trouble doing so. The temperature, humidity, and an odor were playing havoc with what’s left of my lungs.

Dan preached a rewrite of his first sermon here 13 years ago titled The BEST is Yet to Come! I believe that is true for this church and for Dan, and look forward to seeing how God blesses both.

I have always enjoyed the praise team and the female lead singer and they were no exception today.

A highlight was an abusa (pastor) and his colleague who made the trip from Malawi to honor Dan.

We are excited to see where God takes this church and Dan and his family.


Jan’s thoughts:

We were overjoyed to be present today as this congregation thanked God for Pastor Dan Merry’s 13 years of ministry at this church and 42 years as a pastor. Dan’s retirement was clearly bittersweet for this flock.

We attended Crossings, the contemporary service; as always, the music was excellent.

The BEST is Yet to Come! was the title of Dan’s message, which he indicated was a reworking of his inaugural sermon presented September 13, 2006. After listing the statistics of his endeavors at Southminster over the last 13 years, Dan looked forward for some “possibility thinking” as he put it.

Acknowledging that change is never easy, and intended for anyone who thinks they are too old, too young, or too broken, Dan reminded the church of three things.

1 – We know who we are. We are God’s chosen and anointed and Christ died for us.

2 – We also know where we’re going. He advised Southminster to do three things for their new pastor: listen to his preaching, follow his guidance, and love and respect him.

3 – We know Who goes with us. Our Heavenly Father walks with us every step of the way.

Personally, I think these are excellent reminders for each of us as we move forward into the change that comes into our lives with each new day.

Gifts were presented from the congregation and Dan was conferred with the honor of Pastor Emeritus of Southminster Presbyterian Church.

Dan then introduced two visitors from Malawi who had traveled here for the purpose of wishing him well in his retirement. In his words to the congregation, Rev. Paul Mawaya, Parish Minister of St. Andrews CCAP (Church of Central Africa Presbyterian) and Malawi Mission Initiative National Chairperson, pointed out that Dan was retiring from service to Southminster Church but not from service to God, to which all were in hearty agreement.

This was a special, heartwarming service praising God for the service of His servant and we were delighted to be present.


Our prayer for this church:
Lord, we pray Your continued blessings on Your church and on the Merry family for a smooth transition for all concerned. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were early and I was able to finish my coffee and partake of a donut.

I am always happy to find a cross here and appreciated the banners.

I realized we visited for a previous sermon from this man and was hoping for more. I turned my hearing aids up but still had trouble understanding some of the message. I question architectural and geographical references as being prime authenticators of Scripture. It was an important point that God was declaring the value of women.

I enjoyed Pastor Dan relating how during his time in Malawi he would be asked to what tribe he belonged. The concept that Americans do not have tribes was not believable to his Malawian friends, so he claimed the Steeler Nation as his tribe.

On a regular basis, when I am at the VA, people inquire knowingly that I am a WWII vet. For a long time I offered that my time of service was Vietnam but realized it’s much easier (and I guess believable) to just speak of a WWII battle and everybody is happy.

I enjoyed the children’s message especially because the speaker’s body language captivated the children.

Jan’s thoughts:

We arrived early enough at the 9 a.m. service that we had time to partake of coffee and donuts and enjoy conversation with some friends.

The room filled up slowly, as is usual with contemporary worship services, and the rear of the room is set up for parents to sit with their little ones while they play during the service. They are also conveniently nearby when it’s time for the children’s message.

The message was presented by Karl Hudson, the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. It was part four of a series called Believe, and this entry was titled Just Fairy Tales. In it, Karl stated many people have issues with trusting the truth of the Bible, but we should not mistrust it just because we don’t completely understand it. There is an abundance of proof, there are statements from eyewitnesses, and archeological finds that speak to the credibility of Scripture.

He pointed out that as a youth director, he loves to read Scripture to children, but the support of parents is a crucial component of helping youth to internalize God’s Word.

I was glad to be able to participate in World Communion Sunday.

Our prayer for this church:

Father, we pray Your continued blessings on Your church as they work to discern the person You are sending to lead them. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – NIV

Psalm 19:7-14 –

The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.

The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.

The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart.

The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever.

The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous.

They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold;

they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb.

By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults.

Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me.

Then I will be blameless, innocent of great transgression.

May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

1 Corinthians 1:22-25 –

Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were happy to be here for worship, to wish the pastor happy birthday, and to see the newly installed tile floor. I thought the acoustics would be harmed but the sound was pleasing.

A draped cross is displayed on the rear wall of the stage and on the Communion table.

I was pleasantly surprised with how many greeted us and one nearby who thanked me for my service. She told us her father is a Marine veteran of Iwo Jima.

In his message, Pastor Dan told about going to minister at a prison and being harassed by the guards until he heard the laughter from the guards who worshiped at his church who had set him up.

We had worshiped at a church where they spoke of prison ministry, and I shared how I didn’t think I could do that. That Monday morning, I got a call from a waitress to whom I had been ministering that she was in jail. That was when I heard God laugh.

I was interviewing for a job as the head of maintenance at a penitentiary. The warden wanted to know if I could interact with inmates without trying to witness to them. I guess the cross and other items on my lapel made him wary. I was a new believer and on fire for Christ. I didn’t get the job, but I did witness to the warden. I was so sure when I prayed that this was the job God had for me, so I was disappointed. Not long afterwards, the head of maintenance was blamed for inmates having power tools they used to break out.

Today’s message for me, “You are not called to be successful, just faithful.” I have been well paid and I have been without work…I don’t know which is better, but I can testify that we were always taken care of.

I enjoyed the praise band, especially the female lead with her solo.

I was glad the elements were offered verbally and juice was used. Many recent suppers used wine and I abstain. I didn’t realize how much I missed being able to partake of both elements.

Jan’s thoughts:

It is always a joy to visit this church, to see old friends and make new ones. Today we got to do both, in addition to seeing the new floor in fellowship hall and wishing the pastor happy birthday.

The music was excellent, as always, and we were greeted warmly. We felt blessed to partake in Communion.

The message, entitled Divine Tension, was, for me, a timely reminder that we all have strain in our lives, and that what God wants from me is not so much of a mystery as it sometimes seems.

After mentioning a couple of anxiety-inducing real-life situations, Dan referred to the Jews and Greeks and what each required in order to believe in God. And God’s response to both was Christ crucified. Dan stated that worldly eyes saw only failure and humiliation, but Christ was the power and wisdom of God.

He stated that we are not called to be successful, only faithful. And that is the tension: to be faithful in God’s eyes or successful in the eyes of the world.

I believe it’s a choice we are all called to make daily.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray for Your Presence with this congregation as they begin the search for a new pastor next year. Guide them to the person whom You have chosen. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – Genesis 27:1-29 NASB

Now it came about, when Isaac was old and his eyes were too dim to see, that he called his older son Esau and said to him, "My son." And he said to him, "Here I am." Isaac said, "Behold now, I am old and I do not know the day of my death. Now then, please take your gear, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me; and prepare a savory dish for me such as I love, and bring it to me that I may eat, so that my soul may bless you before I die." 

Rebekah was listening while Isaac spoke to his son Esau. So when Esau went to the field to hunt for game to bring home, Rebekah said to her son Jacob, "Behold, I heard your father speak to your brother Esau, saying, 'Bring me some game and prepare a savory dish for me, that I may eat, and bless you in the presence of the LORD before my death.' Now therefore, my son, listen to me as I command you. Go now to the flock and bring me two choice young goats from there, that I may prepare them as a savory dish for your father, such as he loves. Then you shall bring it to your father, that he may eat, so that he may bless you before his death." Jacob answered his mother Rebekah, "Behold, Esau my brother is a hairy man and I am a smooth man. Perhaps my father will feel me, then I will be as a deceiver in his sight, and I will bring upon myself a curse and not a blessing." But his mother said to him, "Your curse be on me, my son; only obey my voice, and go, get them for me." So he went and got them, and brought them to his mother; and his mother made savory food such as his father loved. Then Rebekah took the best garments of Esau her elder son, which were with her in the house, and put them on Jacob her younger son. And she put the skins of the young goats on his hands and on the smooth part of his neck. She also gave the savory food and the bread, which she had made, to her son Jacob. 

Then he came to his father and said, "My father." And he said, "Here I am. Who are you, my son?" Jacob said to his father, "I am Esau your firstborn; I have done as you told me. Get up, please, sit and eat of my game, that you may bless me." Isaac said to his son, "How is it that you have it so quickly, my son?" And he said, "Because the LORD your God caused it to happen to me." Then Isaac said to Jacob, "Please come close, that I may feel you, my son, whether you are really my son Esau or not." So Jacob came close to Isaac his father, and he felt him and said, "The voice is the voice of Jacob, but the hands are the hands of Esau." He did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau's hands; so he blessed him. And he said, "Are you really my son Esau?" And he said, "I am." So he said, "Bring it to me, and I will eat of my son's game, that I may bless you." And he brought it to him, and he ate; he also brought him wine and he drank. Then his father Isaac said to him, "Please come close and kiss me, my son." 

So he came close and kissed him; and when he smelled the smell of his garments, he blessed him and said, "See, the smell of my son Is like the smell of a field which the LORD has blessed; Now may God give you of the dew of heaven, And of the fatness of the earth, And an abundance of grain and new wine; May peoples serve you, And nations bow down to you; Be master of your brothers, And may your mother's sons bow down to you. Cursed be those who curse you, And blessed be those who bless you."

Bob’s thoughts:

We thought it was worth the travel to Southminster to worship with Silas Ncozana, and we were welcomed even more cordially than usual. This was the 9 a.m. Crossings service which is usually a bit relaxed, but today there was an extra enthusiasm.

I was afraid the female lead of the praise team had changed until she sang a solo at the offering, a great rendition of “Oh Lord, You’re Beautiful.”

Pastor Merry and Abusa Silas presented a dialog sermon of Jacob and Esau arguing in the modern style over the stolen (divinely redirected) birthright blessing of Genesis 27 They were able to ham it up and get the message across.

Silas told how, during this visit to the States he was able to see his son whom he hasn’t seen in 10 years and welcome his 7-month-old grandson.

It was a joy to feel part of worship today at Southminster and reunite with friends.

Jan’s thoughts:

It’s only been four months since our last visit here, but today was special and we could not resist the opportunity to worship with Rev. Silas Ncozana. Silas is one of the founding members of the Partnership between Pittsburgh Presbytery and the Synod of Blantyre in Malawi. Following a period as Malawi’s Ambassador to Western Europe and the Vatican, he has returned to serving God within the church.

We were welcomed before we even made it into the building, again as we walked through the doors and yet again as we entered the worship area. The Passing of the Peace was a time of extended friendliness.

I enjoy the music at this contemporary service called “Crossings”…the leadership is excellent and the volume is perfect.

The message was in the form of a dialog between Silas and Dan, with Silas playing the part of Esau and Dan imagining the words of Jacob. The lesson was that God has abundant blessings for everyone, including those who are part of broken families, those with whom we disagree, and even each of us in spite of ourselves.

As always, I was blessed to worship here, even beyond our brief visit with Silas, as the Holy Spirit is abundantly present.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray You use Silas’ message to reunite Your Church and guide us to what You want us to be. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – Acts 2:1-8 NIV

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?”

Bob’s thoughts:

We wanted to worship someplace where Pentecost would be celebrated and we knew that would be the case at Southminster.

The red drape on the cross was expected; the foam flames on the head of one of the pastors was a surprise.

The lead voice on the worship team was a joy to listen to, and their enthusiasm was evident.

Almost everyone we passed walking to the church said hello along with a number of people at the doors; we felt quite welcome. Maybe it was our red shirts for Pentecost.

I thought the best point of the message was the first one, a need of self-acceptance. We all are hopeless sinners but for the love of Christ…we need to witness despite who we are.

It was significant to partake in Communion after an opportunity to confess my sins.

Two people thanked me for my service. And probably the most personally meaningful part of worship was the few moments after the service with Dan. God has been using a lot of different people to move me to where He wants me next, and this was one more piece.

We had a delightful conversation with some folks showing ways to experience some of what handicapped people deal with.

Jan’s thoughts:

With today being Pentecost, we intentionally chose a church we knew would observe this special day.

People exiting the earliest service greeted us as we entered and some entering the later service did the same as we left. Many others greeted us as well and the atmosphere was one of celebration.

We were blessed to visit the Special Needs Awareness Festival that was held today. There were opportunities to visit different stations of crafting and fun things to help youngsters and adults to better understand the special needs of others.

The vulnerable and heartfelt message was given by Karl Hudson, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. It was titled “Heavenly Gravity” and focused on unity in terms of self, community, and the world. He said that self-acceptance of both the good and the bad is key, that unity in the community (or fellowship) is achieved through service, being a “giver” instead of a “taker,” and part of finding unity in the world needs to be learning how to disagree while remembering that at some point all will be redeemed.

I appreciated the opportunity to witness the Ordination and Installation of Officers earlier in the service and then to participate in Communion after the message.

Following worship, we visited the Special Needs Awareness Festival and enjoyed enlightening and educational conversations with some people.

Our prayer for this church:
Lord, we pray the Spirit moves through Your church to every nook and cranny. Inspire the congregation to share their witness in Your Name. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – Numbers 10:33-36 NIV

So they set out from the mountain of the Lord and traveled for three days. The ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them during those three days to find them a place to rest. The cloud of the Lord was over them by day when they set out from the camp.

Whenever the ark set out, Moses said, “Rise up, Lord! May your enemies be scattered; may your foes flee before you.”

Whenever it came to rest, he said, “Return, Lord, to the countless thousands of Israel.”

Bob’s thoughts:

We needed to be in the South Hills this morning and had narrowed our choices to three churches, but when we were ready to leave early we opted for this 8 a.m. service we’ve been wanting to visit. This early service is in the chapel and we were blessed to be there. Something as simple as the passing of Christ’s Peace was so different here, and most of the worshipers greeted us during this time.

As we entered and were admonished by the usher to smile, t made me think how often our faith is evaluated by our demeanor. I remembered being chastised while in a mall wearing a Christian shirt. I was having a bad day and it showed. In honest self-appraisal afterward the concept of being glad in Christ in all circumstances was clear to me, and I have tried to live my life that way.

We were blessed to be here for an adult baptism which seemed much more powerful in this smaller venue.

The message wove around Moses trying to lead his people through the desert, and maybe more so, God trying to lead His people.

We are good at wandering but not so inclined to listening. Moses was shepherding about 1.5 million people for two years to get them to the Promised Land. When their needs surfaced, God provided every time, but they were still unwilling to trust God.

We judge them in retrospect on their lack of faith. Saturday, when I discovered my newer roof was leaking, I complained without thanking God that I owned a house that could have a leaky roof. Since coming to Christ there has never been a time that we weren’t taken care of and He will show us how to overcome this too.

I enjoyed the duet of “Lamb of God” during the offering. The Communion elements were offered verbally, which was an uplifting change.

I would be hard-pressed to decide which I found more delightful, the baby boy peeking over mom’s shoulder or big sister dancing in the aisle during the last song.

I was overjoyed to welcome the newest baptized member of the Church.

Jan’s thoughts:

As many times as we have worshiped here, we were strangers to the 8 a.m. service. Today seemed a good day to remedy that oversight.

The friendliness of this congregation always amazes me. In the past we have observed that members of a congregation with multiple services often do not recognize visitors, but with three services each Sunday, people at this church are consistently welcoming.

This early service is held in the Chapel and had a cozy feel to it. We were privileged to be present for both Sacraments, Baptism and Communion, as well we the Time of Remembering of all the saints from this congregation who joined the Church Triumphant over this past year, an obviously a meaningful time for those present.

All education efforts seem to focus on The Story, as adult and children’s Sunday school classes, Bible study, and worship messages are immersed in this book. Today’s message, “Wandering and Listening,” was presented by Rev. Sharon Stewart. She spoke of the desert wanderings of the Israelites and how God provided for their every need in spite of the people whining, complaining, listening to their fear, and wayward disobedience. God brought life to His people in this landless, desert time. He is a transformer of situations Who feeds, nourishes and provides in desert circumstances. Just as the Israelites had to learn to trust God in their journey, so do we. God’s Holy Spirit lives in us…we need not fear.

This message was a timely reminder, two days before a contentious election. I was grateful we were present to hear this.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we felt Your blessing on this small group and thank You for Your Presence there. We pray for Your continued rich blessings on this congregation as they continue to serve You. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – Genesis 37:18-28 NIV

But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him.

“Here comes that dreamer!” they said to each other. “Come now, let’s kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we’ll see what comes of his dreams.”

When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. “Let’s not take his life,” he said. “Don’t shed any blood. Throw him into this cistern here in the wilderness, but don’t lay a hand on him.” Reuben said this to rescue him from them and take him back to his father.

So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe—the ornate robe he was wearing— and they took him and threw him into the cistern. The cistern was empty; there was no water in it.

As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were loaded with spices, balm and myrrh, and they were on their way to take them down to Egypt.

Judah said to his brothers, “What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? Come, let’s sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood.” His brothers agreed.

So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

Bob’s thoughts:

We were looking for an early service so we could meet up with family for a Mother’s Day lunch, and when we found this would be the senior pastor’s last Sunday preaching before a well-earned sabbatical, our choice was made. I’m glad God lead us to visit and extend our well wishes. There was also a time of recognition of the director of the children’s ministry, who is moving from the area.

We were warmly greeted and I was pleased to see so many children…so much so that I turned my chair so I could watch them at the end of the service.

I was impressed with the lead singer’s voice; I could hear the worship in her voice, and she blended wonderfully with the rest of the worship team.

The message was based on the Scripture telling of Joseph’s being sold into slavery, his attitude as the favored son and his brothers’ jealousy. Thinking of Joseph’s rise to power, fall, and rise again…we are told of Joseph’s faith but God took the time for an attitude adjustment also.

I guess my younger brother was fortunate that we had closed our well and filled it in when he was born as I’m sure the thought crossed our minds. Maybe it is having only brothers, we all want to be the favored son, and at the same time, we don’t. It is an amazing God Who can use us as we are and change us to the person He wants us to be. The things He does to us for love.

Jan’s thoughts:

It was a special day in the life of this, one of our favorite congregations, as they said good bye to one member of the staff and wished bon voyage to their senior pastor and his wife as they leave for a 3-month sabbatical.

Although we have worshiped at the Crossings service before, I noticed two things that have either changed or I missed before: instead of the children being in another room, they and their families sit and play in a space set up for them in the back of the worship area. I couldn’t help but feel the family-friendliness.

The other thing was having the congregation come forward to drop their offering in a basket but instead of marching forward to do so, we were instructed to also greet other worshipers. It gave a casual, friendly feeling to both usually stuffy and structured parts of the service.

The message was entitled “The Things We Do For Love…” but was far from sweet or sentimental. The love of money, greed, power, and influence caused Joseph’s brothers to do horrendous things to him, and those same loves can cause us to do equally atrocious things in the same context – family.

He ended with one question that we all need to ask ourselves in the midst of quarrels with family, or really, anyone…Is this what Christ calls us to do? I know the answer to that question before it is even asked.

We were delighted to be present for the loving farewell prayer and for the Litany of Sabbatical and our prayers go with both families.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, may this church continue to mirror to others the love You shower upon them. We pray Your blessings still on the epitome of the love You show – mothers. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Pastor.

Scripture – John 20:1-9 NIV

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)

Bob’s thoughts:

We thought a first visit might be skewed by light attendance and we are always happy to worship at Southminster.

An unexpected revelation about the worship music: we sang the same contemporary worship songs we have sung at any number of other services, but it felt more like worship.

The two lead female singers blended and complemented each other, harmonizing beautifully. The difference I think was the music didn’t come so much from the diaphragm, like singers are taught, but instead came from the heart.

I enjoyed a delightful children’s sermon…always joyful when it involves the children.

One of the songs contained the phrase “inside out” and I admit my mind went to the children’s movie of the same name we watched recently. So often movies have entertained children and also carried a good adult message, like a well done children’s message often does.

The message was delivered by the Youth Director. The sermon was about our resolutions, and asked how steadfast we are in serving Christ. We can’t live for others expectations, but we can live for Christ.

I might add to the admonishment to invite a friend to church, to consider asking an enemy to church.

Jan’s thoughts:

Today we chose to return to Southminster to worship with some friends at the Crossings service which is held in the cozy and informal atmosphere of Fellowship Hall. If memory serves this space has been updated, but its comfortable ambiance has remained.

The music was provided by the excellent praise band which included more members than I recalled from our last visit, and the two female lead vocalists’ voices blended exceptionally well.

The message, “Resolution Runner,” was presented by Karl Hudson, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. He referred to the 80%-within-two-weeks failure rate of New Year’s resolutions and advised that God wants us all to run daily – to Him. He referred to the mentions of running in the Scripture passage from John where Mary ran from the tomb to tell the disciples then Peter and John ran to the tomb.

He suggested the following steps to run after God:

1 – Run to know God for yourself…stop watching others live for God and do it yourself;

2 – Dig into God’s Word…read the Bible daily. He suggested using an app called Devotion to help remember to stick with the practice;

3 – Share your faith…invite one person to church…talk to people about what God has done in your life.

Running after God over the long haul takes perseverance, but the benefits last through this life and forever.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, You have blessed this church in many ways, and we pray they continue to run after You. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – Acts 2:1-13

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”

Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”

Bob’s thoughts:

It was nice to get back to Southminster where we knew Pentecost would be celebrated. We have attended Pentecost services in years past where we were the only two people in church wearing red and no one knew why we did.

When the pastor commented that by next week’s worship service the scaffolding would be removed, I was embarrassed to admit that I never noticed it, even though it was on both sides of the sanctuary, but behind me. I came in and never looked in that direction.

The sermon started out about languages, where the Holy Spirit came upon the followers who began to speak in different tongues. This brought to mind an embarrassing experience in Vietnam. I was explaining to a housemaid with exaggerated motions and a sarcastic attitude that I wanted a button sewn on, handing it off to her with instructions, “Just like this.” She had a great time bringing me down when she showed me I had sewn the front of the shirt to the back.

God used this experience to prepare me when, a few months later we were forcing our good intentions on an orphanage and being “ugly Americans.” I was able to use my limited communication skills to convince the head maintenance person that, with his guidance our help would work.

Scripture talks of the coming of the Holy Spirit sounding like a tornado. I have been through a tornado, a hurricane, and a typhoon, but it is still hard to imagine that noise indoors.

I thought the choir was lacking some of their usual enthusiasm until they presented the offertory and the praise was on their lips and faces. The stringed bass was a true asset.

I have never experienced many greetings at Southminster, but today my Marine service was acknowledged at the door and in the pew and, along with other veterans, I was thanked at the end of the service. Though we are only welcomed by a few, it has always felt very genuine.

Jan’s thoughts:

We chose to visit this church today because we wanted to worship where Pentecost would be recognized and celebrated.

We arrived with minutes to spare, but we’ve been here numerous times so did not need to look around. Nevertheless we were greeted by a friend with whom we ended up sitting, which is always nice.

The bulletin was perfect for this Pentecost with all the headings printed in red. Quite lovely!

It was a joy to hear a string bass accompanying the choir. I was surprised at the effect of a single deep-sounding instrument.

The Prayer of Confession is missing in many churches, and the first line in the confession today was: Almighty and ever gracious God, we confess that we have failed to open our hearts to the power of Your Spirit. For me, that is what today was about…I need to open my heart to the power of the Holy Spirit much more than I have in the past.

The sermon was entitled “PENTECOST…something positive…” He spoke of the amazing tongues of fire and everyone hearing speech in their own language, and made three positive points: 1 – something positive has come into the world…God came with a voice everyone could hear and understand; 2 – something positive is expected of the people of God…many positive things are being accomplished through the generosity of this congregation; 3 – something positive is expected of us individually…and the most effective way to accomplish good for the Kingdom of God is one person at a time.

It’s true: our God specializes in using the little we have to offer to bring about great things.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we pray You will inspire this church to continue to support the missions they do and send their people out in Your name. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture – Luke 1:26-38

In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.”

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her

Bob’s thoughts:

At times we really need to recharge our batteries, and Christmas worship with handbells at Southminster was just what we needed. It is amazing how the handbell performance takes you into worship.

There is an additional Advent wreath with candles suspended horizontally above the chancel. It was unusual to worship here without the organ, but I especially appreciated the choir’s voices falling on the congregation from the rear balcony.

The sermon, “A time for miracles…”, developed early from a story of disbelief to Mary accepting God’s call for her to the reason for the season: love.

We have seldom been greeted here by people we do not know, but the woman next to Jan said hello.

Jan’s thoughts:

We have visited here numerous times and when we feel the need to return we are always welcomed with open arms by our friends. Several others greeted us as well.

The sanctuary was beautifully decorated for Christmas, and it was an absolute treat to hear – and watch – the Southminster Handbell Ensemble.

Watching one of the church families light the Advent Candle brought back memories of years past when our family served in this capacity at another Presbyterian church.

The message was entitled “A time for miracles…” in which we were reminded of how people in general become kinder and more loving, giving sacrificially where there is need. Somehow each year, as we remember God’s gift of His Son, we are prompted to give ourselves. If we could maintain the Christmas perspective on giving year-round, every day would be like Christmas…like God intended.

Wishing everyone a blessed CHRISTmas!

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we feel the Holy Spirit at work in this church and pray their hearts are always open to Your leading. Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Daniel B. Merry, Pastor.

Bob’s thoughts:

We acknowledge your prayers with heartfelt thanksgiving. Jan’s shoulder surgery was successful, and she is on the mend. We never doubted the Great Healer’s Presence throughout the ordeal. We serve an awesome God, and we have felt your prayers.

We don’t know when we will be able to resume our visitations, as even note-taking is all but impossible. As my typing skill is nonexistent, our daughter agreed to type this for me.

May our Lord continue to bless you all, and we pray He will open our eyes to more of His purpose for this time in our lives. 

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church and heard an enlightening sermon. I enjoyed the choir and the young woman on the organ. We were graciously invited to join the spaghetti luncheon which was delicious. We appreciated the hospitality and greatly enjoyed the fellowship.

This time of healing for Jan has made us more aware of the phenomenal way some disabled people handle everyday challenges.

Our prayer for this church:

Lord, we lift up to You the differently-abled around us and ask that You show us how best to minister to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Scripture: Luke 24:1-11 (NKJV) –

Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. Then they went in and did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. And it happened, as they were greatly perplexed about this, that behold, two men stood by them in shining garments. Then as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’”

And they remembered His words. Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them, who told these things to the apostles. And their words seemed to them like idle tales, and they did not believe them. But Peter arose and ran to the tomb; and stooping down, he saw the linen cloths lying by themselves; and he departed, marveling to himself at what had happened.

Bob’s thoughts:

We wanted a church where we could celebrate the resurrected Christ and knew Southminster would be a good choice. We knew we would hear the Word of God spoken and a sermon that was Bible-based and scriptural, and we did.

The church was filled. I particularly enjoyed the children in their Easter outfits. The hymns were sung loudly with enthusiasm…a great feeling to be worshiping God in song. The sermon, “Missing Person or Risen Lord?” was what people needed to hear: it was well-developed and posed the question “who is Christ to you?” Dan’s willingness to let Christ use him came through in his passionate message. This would normally be the strong point of worship, but these two grabbed my attention also.

I found myself praying for a girl playing the handbells who had a sullen expression when facing the congregation but a beautiful smile toward the conductor. I pray that it was only my imagination that she was in some distress. There were some things I had never heard before from a bell choir.

Toward the end of the service I noticed a young girl in the balcony dancing ballet-style to the offertory.

These two simple incidents spoke volumes to me about what is right at Southminster and helped draw me closer to Christ. What joy to worship on Easter morning where people glorify and enjoy God together.

Jan’s thoughts:

Once again I was grateful to return to Southminster, where we have worshiped a number of times before and have enjoyed returning for Easter especially.

Today we were blessed to worship with several people we know, to hear The Southminster Ringers (a first-rate bell choir) as well as a meaningful message.

The message “Missing Person or Risen Lord?” was a reminder that “there are no proofs of God’s existence, there are only witnesses.” Our personal testimony is the most powerful vehicle we have to escort others into the presence of the One Who gives us new life – resurrection life.

One special joy today was a young girl in a pink dress in the balcony opposite us. Throughout the offertory she performed what could have been an interpretive dance, utterly unaware of the growth of her audience. It felt special to be among those witnesses.

Happy Resurrection Day!

Our prayer for this church:
Dear Father, We pray You continue to bless this church. Encourage them to go out and share their faith with the passion with which they worship You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Senior Pastor.

Bob’s thoughts:

We had the pleasure to worship Easter morning at Southminster. The contemporary service is held in a social area, but I was pleased, as always, that a cross was visible. The praise team is exceptional, and I particularly enjoyed the solo of “Hold On” by the female lead. The signage has improved so much that I almost looked to see where it might be missing.

Dan Merry spoke on “Afraid of EASTER?” up till the original end of Mark 16:1-8 where the women were told at the tomb to go and tell the disciples – and Peter – that Christ is risen. The women left quickly but told no one because they were afraid. Dan also raised the question we all ask: did the disciples ever ‘get it’? Like the rest of us who mightily resist change, they got it.

There was a small table in the rear with a few toys to entertain the children, and my wife let me go sit with them at the end of the service to ease my withdrawal in missing my grands. J

On Good Friday we visited Fountain Park Church and walked through the “Meditations on the Cross.” It was well put-together and meaningful to me, and left me at the cross still wondering how could Christ come to die for a worthless sinner like me.

But while praying, a revelation of sorts came to me. When people thank me for my service in the Marines my response is frequently “I would have died for you.” Maybe I finally have come to grips with Christ’s sacrifice for me.

Jan’s thoughts:

What a special joy to worship with our friends at Southminster on Easter Sunday!

We attended the 9 a.m. service called Crossings, which is held in Fellowship Hall. I always appreciate the relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and today I found the music to be especially uplifting.

Strangely enough, just this morning I read the resurrection story in all four gospels, so I was puzzled to see that he was preaching from Mark, as it seemed the most abbreviated of all. But, as usual, Dan made excellent points in the sermon founded on Mark 16:1-8 and called “Afraid of EASTER?”

The observation that especially got my attention had to do with the realization by Jesus’ followers that His resurrection changed everything and that nothing would ever be the same again. On the one hand I can’t help but say “Hallelujah!” to that. On the other, I recognize the dread of a future affected so profoundly by a single event. It is the end of one life and the beginning of something so totally new that one has no idea how to live that life or what to expect.

This dilemma was answered by several words in one of the songs this morning, “Mighty to Save,” specifically the words that refer to Jesus as the “author of salvation.” These words hit me powerfully…Jesus is the author of life itself, but not only the life we know – also the life we have yet to experience, the everlasting life, for which He gave His life for us to experience.

Change happens, and sometimes life takes unexpected turns, but God is the Author and He always brings light from the darkness.

Easter blessings!

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Today we worshiped at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228, 412.343.8900, www.spchurch.org, Rev. Dr. Daniel B. Merry, Pastor.


Bob’s thoughts:

As the weekend nears and we begin to think about where we will worship, sometimes when the choice doesn’t come easily I remember that the choice is God’s, not ours. That’s when I like to say the church has chosen us.

We were in need of a good spiritual message and started in the general direction we believed we were to head. That’s when we were gently nudged toward Southminster, and God blessed us there. I had an opportunity to share a witness with someone before the service, and we both came away better. I believe that witnessing always benefits both participants.

We were able to catch up with some friends, enjoy the many children present and their message, and God spoke to me in Dan’s sermon. Today Christ used the pastor to give me a personal message, and when I heard God speak to me in the sermon I was ready to applaud or offer a very un-Presbyterian “Amen!”

What made worship truly special was the unquestionable presence of Christ in the Sanctuary and the love of life in the congregation.


Jan’s thoughts:

It’s always a joy to visit Southminster, even more so on a day of rejoicing such as this. It’s a delight to see friends I seldom see, to meet new friends, to hear an outstanding choir, bells, and brass, and, of course, a sermon that causes me to think. I leave changed, and I’m grateful.

Today’s sermon was entitled “Can you see Easter?” and was based on Luke 24:1-12. I loved the story of the pastor who had placed a crown of thorns on the altar on Good Friday only to find on Easter morning that it had blossomed into beautiful flowers. What a great visual of the Easter story!

Then Dan spoke of hoaxes, specifically the Loch Ness monster and Watergate, and how the truth had come to light in each instance and the hoaxes had unraveled. He reminded the congregation that we can entrust those we love to God, because Jesus’ rising from the dead was no hoax. Many people over the centuries, even though they did not see Jesus face-to-face after His resurrection, have died for this belief. It is the most important truth on earth. Amen and hallelujah!