Continuing the Lenten series focusing on Lament, Rev. Beth invites the Montclair Presbyterian Church community to make space for the expression of lament describing how unexpressed Lamentation can be destructive in communal relationships. Scripture Lamentations 2: 11-15 and 3:22-25.

Building upon Walter Brueggemann’s concepts of Orientation, Disorientation, and Re-Orientation, Rev. Beth begins this Season of Lent in which Lament will be the the major theme talking about how the ability to allow room for Lament as an authentic expression is important for the life of the church. Scripture: Psalms 13 and 42  

With Rev. Beth out ill Barbara Peters, Eloise Gilland, and Betsy King read from her sermon challenging us to consider what we can do on the issue of violence and gun control.

Drawing on the story of the feeding of thousands, Rev. Beth Reflected on addressing the issue of hunger.

Rev. Beth discusses homelessness: biblical connections to Dueteronomy, how it is manifested in our lives, and better ways to respond to the “nudge” we feel to act.

Rev. Beth discusses poverty in the Bible and in our modern lives, raising the question of whether we can make lives better for ourselves and others by learning to live with open hands and hearts.

Rev. Beth discusses the concept of ‘beloved community’: what it meant to Martin Luther King Jr., how it evolved throughout the Bible, and how it applies to our lives today.

Rev Beth discusses Epiphany from two angles: considering stars that shine even when we can’t see them, and the way that we all shine with the presence of God.

Drawing upon the story of Simeon and Anna visiting the baby Jesus found in Luke 2:21-40, Rev. Beth asks us how we can identify those among us who can see with their hearts, and can speak with wisdom of hope.

On the occasion of the Baptism of Dean Elia, Ethen Hockenhull, and Emilio Niemi Rev. Beth reflects on the meaning of baptism and the commitment the church community makes to help children find those paths that will lead toward God and not away. “Because we are, God loves”. Scripture: Luke 3:1-20