The Montclair Presbyterian Church Choir, with Kim Rankin conducting present part 1 of  The Messiah by G F Handel (1742) For related scripture from the book of Isaiah, click here. The listen to the entire presentation, click here. Below, Listen to Kim Rankin’s reflections, setting the context for the presentation.

Children and Youth Christmas Pagent Montclair Presbyterian Church Children and Youth Present an interpretation of the Christmas Story Featuring the Stars of Hope, Peace, and Joy. Directed by Bob Saltz and Morgan Saltz Music Direction: Kim Rankin Instruments: Tom Dambly, trumpets; Paul Blankinship, piano; Timm Kelly, bass

Rev. Beth discusses the importance of dis-orientation as we “settle in” to Advent, showing how it can lead to greater possibilities of positive transformation.

Guest preacher Rev. Dr. Herman Waetjen discusses the biblical metaphor of the clay pots, connecting it to a Zulu story and to the gift of the Kingdom that we all receive.

Guest preacher Rev. Dr. Lisa Fullam discusses the life of St. Ignatius, focusing on the key question: are we available to God, and ready to go where God leads? Scripture: Luke 10:1-11; Hebrews 10:11-14, 18

Rev. Beth discusses the story of Elijah and the widow, focusing on how it teaches us to move from fear to faith, and from a sense of scarcity to one of generosity.

Rev. Beth takes on the character of St. Francis, exploring and explaining his life, message, and the big question: What is it that keeps you from God? (Note: unfortunately, we’re missing about 30 seconds from the middle of the sermon)

Continuing her series on Catholic Saints, Rev. Beth considers the example of St. Theresa of Avila  for the faith and prayer life of the congregation today. (Please forgive us. A machine error resulted in loss of a few seconds from the sermon. A brief gap and discontinuity thus occurs after about 14 minutes.)

Guest preacher, Rev. Christina Graham, draws from Matthew 18:1-6a and considers what it means to be “as little children”. (Please forgive a brief gap in the audio. Early in the sermon a mechanical problem caused us to lose a few seconds.)

On the occasion of World Communion Sunday, Rev. Beth continues her series on the church and theology with meditation on the meaning of Communion.