Pearl Church Sermons

Preaching: Dr. Valinda HarlanIt's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and pastors. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Cheri GilbertIt's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and pastors. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl. Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIt's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and pastors. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl. Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn Eastertide, we ponder the mystery of resurrection. Like the flowers bursting out again in spring, like the Spirit hovering over chaos and nurturing creation, like the Christ rising from the tomb on the third day—even so, we often bear witness to new, fruitful ways of living coming to life out of the darkest places. In this series, we will explore the way our disintegrated and disregulated attempts to cope with life, can become invitations into wise, honest, human ways of flourishing.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIn Eastertide, we ponder the mystery of resurrection. Like the flowers bursting out again in spring, like the Spirit hovering over chaos and nurturing creation, like the Christ rising from the tomb on the third day—even so, we often bear witness to new, fruitful ways of living coming to life out of the darkest places. In this series, we will explore the way our disintegrated and disregulated attempts to cope with life, can become invitations into wise, honest, human ways of flourishing.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIn Eastertide, we ponder the mystery of resurrection. Like the flowers bursting out again in spring, like the Spirit hovering over chaos and nurturing creation, like the Christ rising from the tomb on the third day—even so, we often bear witness to new, fruitful ways of living coming to life out of the darkest places. In this series, we will explore the way our disintegrated and disregulated attempts to cope with life, can become invitations into wise, honest, human ways of flourishing.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn Eastertide, we ponder the mystery of resurrection. Like the flowers bursting out again in spring, like the Spirit hovering over chaos and nurturing creation, like the Christ rising from the tomb on the third day—even so, we often bear witness to new, fruitful ways of living coming to life out of the darkest places. In this series, we will explore the way our disintegrated and disregulated attempts to cope with life, can become invitations into wise, honest, human ways of flourishing.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIn Eastertide, we ponder the mystery of resurrection. Like the flowers bursting out again in spring, like the Spirit hovering over chaos and nurturing creation, like the Christ rising from the tomb on the third day—even so, we often bear witness to new, fruitful ways of living coming to life out of the darkest places. In this series, we will explore the way our disintegrated and disregulated attempts to cope with life, can become invitations into wise, honest, human ways of flourishing.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanNote: Early in the sermon, we played a short video clip which you can see here.In Eastertide, we ponder the mystery of resurrection. Like the flowers bursting out again in spring, like the Spirit hovering over chaos and nurturing creation, like the Christ rising from the tomb on the third day—even so, we often bear witness to new, fruitful ways of living coming to life out of the darkest places. In this series, we will explore the way our disintegrated and disregulated attempts to cope with life, can become invitations into wise, honest, human ways of flourishing.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn Eastertide, we ponder the mystery of resurrection. Like the flowers bursting out again in spring, like the Spirit hovering over chaos and nurturing creation, like the Christ rising from the tomb on the third day—even so, we often bear witness to new, fruitful ways of living coming to life out of the darkest places. In this series, we will explore the way our disintegrated and disregulated attempts to cope with life, can become invitations into wise, honest, human ways of flourishing.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Carlos FernandezToday is the Sixth Sunday in Lent, traditionally called “Palm Sunday.” It marks the beginning of Holy Week, which is the final week of Lent. This Sunday commemorates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, before his arrest on Maundy Thursday, and his crucifixion on Good Friday. When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, the people greeted him by joyfully shouting hosanna–Hebrew for “deliver us”–and waving palm branches–a traditional sign of victory.This week we hear from Carlos Fernandez, who leads us in reflection on our identity as Beloved of God. In tumultuous times, a good grasp on our identity as God's beloved is essential to our well-being and capacity to be a presence of restoration in the world.

Preaching: Mike RothIn the deconstruction of violent and dominion Christianity we necessarily tear down that which does harm. However, this process can leave us bereft of language that assists us in making sense of our lives and world. This sermon series intends to thoughtfully reconstruct a Christian vocabulary of suffering that can help us to ponder, name, and discuss the very real difficulties that we face. Our hope is that by reconstructing a vocabulary of suffering we can enter more deeply and honestly into that which causes us sorrow and pain. For truly, it is by entering into death that new life is made possible.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanNote: in this sermon, we reference a few different videos which you can watch on YouTube. We recommend you do so before listening, to avoid spoilers!1. Selective Attention Test2. Whodunnit? In the deconstruction of violent and dominion Christianity we necessarily tear down that which does harm. However, this process can leave us bereft of language that assists us in making sense of our lives and world. This sermon series intends to thoughtfully reconstruct a Christian vocabulary of suffering that can help us to ponder, name, and discuss the very real difficulties that we face. Our hope is that by reconstructing a vocabulary of suffering we can enter more deeply and honestly into that which causes us sorrow and pain. For truly, it is by entering into death that new life is made possible.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIn the deconstruction of violent and dominion Christianity we necessarily tear down that which does harm. However, this process can leave us bereft of language that assists us in making sense of our lives and world. This sermon series intends to thoughtfully reconstruct a Christian vocabulary of suffering that can help us to ponder, name, and discuss the very real difficulties that we face. Our hope is that by reconstructing a vocabulary of suffering we can enter more deeply and honestly into that which causes us sorrow and pain. For truly, it is by entering into death that new life is made possible.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIn the deconstruction of violent and dominion Christianity we necessarily tear down that which does harm. However, this process can leave us bereft of language that assists us in making sense of our lives and world. This sermon series intends to thoughtfully reconstruct a Christian vocabulary of suffering that can help us to ponder, name, and discuss the very real difficulties that we face. Our hope is that by reconstructing a vocabulary of suffering we can enter more deeply and honestly into that which causes us sorrow and pain. For truly, it is by entering into death that new life is made possible.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Please note: due to a technical issue, the recording quality for this sermon is very poor.In the deconstruction of violent and dominion Christianity we necessarily tear down that which does harm. However, this process can leave us bereft of language that assists us in making sense of our lives and world. This sermon series intends to thoughtfully reconstruct a Christian vocabulary of suffering that can help us to ponder, name, and discuss the very real difficulties that we face. Our hope is that by reconstructing a vocabulary of suffering we can enter more deeply and honestly into that which causes us sorrow and pain. For truly, it is by entering into death that new life is made possible.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Jen JohnsonThis Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday, the last week in Epiphany before we enter the season of Lent. This special feast commemorates the miraculous change in Jesus' appearance when he unveiled his glory on the Mount of Transfiguration. As the fulfillment of Epiphany's longing, the transfiguration reveals not only the glory of Jesus' way of life in the world, but it also casts vision for all that we can become, in the midst of what we are. This Sunday we get to hear from Pearl member Jen Johnson. At the culmination of the season of Epiphany, celebrating the light of Christ, we pause at this mysterious moment where the light gets very very bright, and yet we're not quite sure what we're looking at. In this mystery, we explore how we can hold space for these tender moments of “becoming” in our own lives and the lives of others.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIn Epiphany the church basks in the light of Divine Love that is revealed in the incarnation of Christ. This incarnation of the Infinite is full of surprises. Perhaps most surprising is that we see God, in Jesus, not being served but serving; not being sacrificed to but becoming sacrifice. Rather than seeing God as a guest who we attend to and serve, the incarnation encourages the sight of God inviting, feeding, and befriending—climactically providing a supper of self-giving for every person. The way of Jesus, then, invites us into similar transformation—from guests who find warm welcome at Jesus' Common Table to partners passionate about making warm welcome for others.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIn Epiphany the church basks in the light of Divine Love that is revealed in the incarnation of Christ. This incarnation of the Infinite is full of surprises. Perhaps most surprising is that we see God, in Jesus, not being served but serving; not being sacrificed to but becoming sacrifice. Rather than seeing God as a guest who we attend to and serve, the incarnation encourages the sight of God inviting, feeding, and befriending—climactically providing a supper of self-giving for every person. The way of Jesus, then, invites us into similar transformation—from guests who find warm welcome at Jesus' Common Table to partners passionate about making warm welcome for others.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn Epiphany the church basks in the light of Divine Love that is revealed in the incarnation of Christ. This incarnation of the Infinite is full of surprises. Perhaps most surprising is that we see God, in Jesus, not being served but serving; not being sacrificed to but becoming sacrifice. Rather than seeing God as a guest who we attend to and serve, the incarnation encourages the sight of God inviting, feeding, and befriending—climactically providing a supper of self-giving for every person. The way of Jesus, then, invites us into similar transformation—from guests who find warm welcome at Jesus' Common Table to partners passionate about making warm welcome for others.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn Epiphany the church basks in the light of Divine Love that is revealed in the incarnation of Christ. But even more astonishing is the invitation of the Incarnation, to ourselves become alight with Divine Love as we learn to walk in ways that make for peace and justice. The poet Gerard Manley Hopkins wrote that the just one “justices; keeps grace: that keeps all his goings graces; acts in God's eye what in God's eye” they are—Christ. In this series, we set out to explore the “graces” that make for justice: benevolence, humility, attention, and hope. Our conversation partners will be the minor prophets, whose cries for justice are invitations to cultivate characters that will keep all our goings graces.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothPlease note: due to technical issues, the recording quality is poorer for this week's sermon.In Epiphany the church basks in the light of Divine Love that is revealed in the incarnation of Christ. But even more astonishing is the invitation of the Incarnation, to ourselves become alight with Divine Love as we learn to walk in ways that make for peace and justice. The poet Gerard Manley Hopkins wrote that the just one “justices; keeps grace: that keeps all his goings graces; acts in God's eye what in God's eye” they are—Christ. In this series, we set out to explore the “graces” that make for justice: benevolence, humility, attention, and hope. Our conversation partners will be the minor prophets, whose cries for justice are invitations to cultivate characters that will keep all our goings graces.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn Epiphany the church basks in the light of Divine Love that is revealed in the incarnation of Christ. But even more astonishing is the invitation of the Incarnation, to ourselves become alight with Divine Love as we learn to walk in ways that make for peace and justice. The poet Gerard Manley Hopkins wrote that the just one “justices; keeps grace: that keeps all his goings graces; acts in God's eye what in God's eye” they are—Christ. In this series, we set out to explore the “graces” that make for justice: benevolence, humility, attention, and hope. Our conversation partners will be the minor prophets, whose cries for justice are invitations to cultivate characters that will keep all our goings graces.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn Epiphany the church basks in the light of Divine Love that is revealed in the incarnation of Christ. But even more astonishing is the invitation of the Incarnation, to ourselves become alight with Divine Love as we learn to walk in ways that make for peace and justice. The poet Gerard Manley Hopkins wrote that the just one “justices; keeps grace: that keeps all his goings graces; acts in God's eye what in God's eye” they are—Christ. In this series, we set out to explore the “graces” that make for justice: benevolence, humility, attention, and hope. Our conversation partners will be the minor prophets, whose cries for justice are invitations to cultivate characters that will keep all our goings graces.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Jen JohnsonThis week following Christmas, we hear from Pearl Church member Jen Johnson about the tender work of coming to accept and receive the invitations that arise within the circumstances of our real lives.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothTo feel, anything, is to be alive. Feelings are a central part of our humanity. Their significance is clearly attested to in the life of Jesus, the Infinite wrapped in flesh, feeling—happiness, sadness, worry, anger, despair, vulnerability, peace, amazement… Unfortunately, in comparison to thinking, western thought has minimized feelings as insignificant, disgraced them as childish, and devalued them as inferior. Because of this, many of us have inherited a tumultuous relationship with feelings. Throughout Advent, a season marked by longing, we intend to celebrate, embrace, and plumb the depths of a few consequential feelings. Our Advent hope is that come Christmas morning, a gift is born: the incarnation of feelings in our selves, relationships, and life with God.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothTo feel, anything, is to be alive. Feelings are a central part of our humanity. Their significance is clearly attested to in the life of Jesus, the Infinite wrapped in flesh, feeling—happiness, sadness, worry, anger, despair, vulnerability, peace, amazement… Unfortunately, in comparison to thinking, western thought has minimized feelings as insignificant, disgraced them as childish, and devalued them as inferior. Because of this, many of us have inherited a tumultuous relationship with feelings. Throughout Advent, a season marked by longing, we intend to celebrate, embrace, and plumb the depths of a few consequential feelings. Our Advent hope is that come Christmas morning, a gift is born: the incarnation of feelings in our selves, relationships, and life with God.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothTo feel, anything, is to be alive. Feelings are a central part of our humanity. Their significance is clearly attested to in the life of Jesus, the Infinite wrapped in flesh, feeling—happiness, sadness, worry, anger, despair, vulnerability, peace, amazement… Unfortunately, in comparison to thinking, western thought has minimized feelings as insignificant, disgraced them as childish, and devalued them as inferior. Because of this, many of us have inherited a tumultuous relationship with feelings. Throughout Advent, a season marked by longing, we intend to celebrate, embrace, and plumb the depths of a few consequential feelings. Our Advent hope is that come Christmas morning, a gift is born: the incarnation of feelings in our selves, relationships, and life with God.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothTo feel, anything, is to be alive. Feelings are a central part of our humanity. Their significance is clearly attested to in the life of Jesus, the Infinite wrapped in flesh, feeling—happiness, sadness, worry, anger, despair, vulnerability, peace, amazement… Unfortunately, in comparison to thinking, western thought has minimized feelings as insignificant, disgraced them as childish, and devalued them as inferior. Because of this, many of us have inherited a tumultuous relationship with feelings. Throughout Advent, a season marked by longing, we intend to celebrate, embrace, and plumb the depths of a few consequential feelings. Our Advent hope is that come Christmas morning, a gift is born: the incarnation of feelings in our selves, relationships, and life with God.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanAs we enter another tumultuous political season, it is all too easy to get caught up in headlines, polls, and the divisive rhetoric everywhere on display. Amid all the frenzy of campaigns and candidates, an unlikely Biblical text calls us to pull back the curtain on reality, and to center ourselves in a way that truly makes for peace. The Book of Revelation—much misunderstood, much misused, full of visions of dragons and beasts—is actually a subversive, political text, calling the church to resist the siren call of Empire, and to stay faithful to the Lamb-like way of Jesus. In this series, we will seek to understand this text, not as a timeline of supposed future events, but as an unveiling of civic life, helping form our imagination and discernment in our political, religious, and economic life together. Our hope is to lower election anxiety, and turn instead to the hope of a city that is like a garden at peace.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanAs we enter another tumultuous political season, it is all too easy to get caught up in headlines, polls, and the divisive rhetoric everywhere on display. Amid all the frenzy of campaigns and candidates, an unlikely Biblical text calls us to pull back the curtain on reality, and to center ourselves in a way that truly makes for peace. The Book of Revelation—much misunderstood, much misused, full of visions of dragons and beasts—is actually a subversive, political text, calling the church to resist the siren call of Empire, and to stay faithful to the Lamb-like way of Jesus. In this series, we will seek to understand this text, not as a timeline of supposed future events, but as an unveiling of civic life, helping form our imagination and discernment in our political, religious, and economic life together. Our hope is to lower election anxiety, and turn instead to the hope of a city that is like a garden at peace.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanAs we enter another tumultuous political season, it is all too easy to get caught up in headlines, polls, and the divisive rhetoric everywhere on display. Amid all the frenzy of campaigns and candidates, an unlikely Biblical text calls us to pull back the curtain on reality, and to center ourselves in a way that truly makes for peace. The Book of Revelation—much misunderstood, much misused, full of visions of dragons and beasts—is actually a subversive, political text, calling the church to resist the siren call of Empire, and to stay faithful to the Lamb-like way of Jesus. In this series, we will seek to understand this text, not as a timeline of supposed future events, but as an unveiling of civic life, helping form our imagination and discernment in our political, religious, and economic life together. Our hope is to lower election anxiety, and turn instead to the hope of a city that is like a garden at peace.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike Roth, Zach Holz, Vivi PareckiThe Festival of All Saints celebrates the faithful women and men, known and unknown, past and present, whose lives have been marked by the love and grace of God. It is an opportunity for us, as a church, to thank God for them and to remember the roles they have played in bringing Divine Love into our lives and into this world. Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanAs we enter another tumultuous political season, it is all too easy to get caught up in headlines, polls, and the divisive rhetoric everywhere on display. Amid all the frenzy of campaigns and candidates, an unlikely Biblical text calls us to pull back the curtain on reality, and to center ourselves in a way that truly makes for peace. The Book of Revelation—much misunderstood, much misused, full of visions of dragons and beasts—is actually a subversive, political text, calling the church to resist the siren call of Empire, and to stay faithful to the Lamb-like way of Jesus. In this series, we will seek to understand this text, not as a timeline of supposed future events, but as an unveiling of civic life, helping form our imagination and discernment in our political, religious, and economic life together. Our hope is to lower election anxiety, and turn instead to the hope of a city that is like a garden at peace.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanThe slides for this sermon are available to download here.As we enter another tumultuous political season, it is all too easy to get caught up in headlines, polls, and the divisive rhetoric everywhere on display. Amid all the frenzy of campaigns and candidates, an unlikely Biblical text calls us to pull back the curtain on reality, and to center ourselves in a way that truly makes for peace. The Book of Revelation—much misunderstood, much misused, full of visions of dragons and beasts—is actually a subversive, political text, calling the church to resist the siren call of Empire, and to stay faithful to the Lamb-like way of Jesus. In this series, we will seek to understand this text, not as a timeline of supposed future events, but as an unveiling of civic life, helping form our imagination and discernment in our political, religious, and economic life together. Our hope is to lower election anxiety, and turn instead to the hope of a city that is like a garden at peace.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothAs our community continues to transition from deconstruction to reconstruction, from a focus on what we are not toward a focus on what we are, we dream of a church that holds up the ancient and historic way of Jesus that is worthy of being embraced. The way of Jesus casts vision for a flourishing life. It is life so immersed in Divine Love that our daily lives are transfigured: no longer are strangers to be feared, they are family to know; no longer is change threatening, it is an opportunity to evolve; no longer is self-giving burdensome duty, it becomes an opportunity to share God's love that has filled our hearts to overflowing. Family, evolution, the expression of love—these are distinctive of Jesus' way that, in this series, we will dream about deepening into.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothAs our community continues to transition from deconstruction to reconstruction, from a focus on what we are not toward a focus on what we are, we dream of a church that holds up the ancient and historic way of Jesus that is worthy of being embraced. The way of Jesus casts vision for a flourishing life. It is life so immersed in Divine Love that our daily lives are transfigured: no longer are strangers to be feared, they are family to know; no longer is change threatening, it is an opportunity to evolve; no longer is self-giving burdensome duty, it becomes an opportunity to share God's love that has filled our hearts to overflowing. Family, evolution, the expression of love—these are distinctive of Jesus' way that, in this series, we will dream about deepening into.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothAs our community continues to transition from deconstruction to reconstruction, from a focus on what we are not toward a focus on what we are, we dream of a church that holds up the ancient and historic way of Jesus that is worthy of being embraced. The way of Jesus casts vision for a flourishing life. It is life so immersed in Divine Love that our daily lives are transfigured: no longer are strangers to be feared, they are family to know; no longer is change threatening, it is an opportunity to evolve; no longer is self-giving burdensome duty, it becomes an opportunity to share God's love that has filled our hearts to overflowing. Family, evolution, the expression of love—these are distinctive of Jesus' way that, in this series, we will dream about deepening into.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanAs our community continues to transition from deconstruction to reconstruction, from a focus on what we are not toward a focus on what we are, we dream of a church that holds up the ancient and historic way of Jesus that is worthy of being embraced. The way of Jesus casts vision for a flourishing life. It is life so immersed in Divine Love that our daily lives are transfigured: no longer are strangers to be feared, they are family to know; no longer is change threatening, it is an opportunity to evolve; no longer is self-giving burdensome duty, it becomes an opportunity to share God's love that has filled our hearts to overflowing. Family, evolution, the expression of love—these are distinctive of Jesus' way that, in this series, we will dream about deepening into.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanAs our community continues to transition from deconstruction to reconstruction, from a focus on what we are not toward a focus on what we are, we dream of a church that holds up the ancient and historic way of Jesus that is worthy of being embraced. The way of Jesus casts vision for a flourishing life. It is life so immersed in Divine Love that our daily lives are transfigured: no longer are strangers to be feared, they are family to know; no longer is change threatening, it is an opportunity to evolve; no longer is self-giving burdensome duty, it becomes an opportunity to share God's love that has filled our hearts to overflowing. Family, evolution, the expression of love—these are distinctive of Jesus' way that, in this series, we will dream about deepening into.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIn 2023, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued a statement declaring a new epidemic—not a new strain of COVID or the flu, but rather loneliness. In this sermon, our aim is to normalize our experiences of loneliness and to explore how we as a community can respond to the epidemic of loneliness and provide a place for connection and belonging to flourish.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

It's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and lead pastor.This week we hear from Tym Andrews, sharing about his story of finding belonging and his hopes for Pearl Church to be a welcoming community for all.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

It's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and lead pastor.This week we hear from Leah Griffin, sharing on the theme of “identities” and their hope that Pearl Church is and continues to be a community people are proud to be a part of. Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

It's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and lead pastor.This week we hear from Valinda Harlan, sharing her heart for Pearl to be a place where we can be renewed in our minds, feel radical love in our hearts, and be a family of action animated by love.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

It's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and lead pastor.This week we hear from Cheri Gilbert about her heart for community at Pearl Church.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Mike & Asher RothIt's an annual tradition at Pearl Church to hear from the members of our Oversight Team. Each week a different Oversight Team member takes a turn to share, which gives us a chance to learn about their life and to hear what they dream of for Pearl. The Oversight Team's role is to ensure that we are cultivating our rhythms according to our values. This team also oversees our practices, bylaws, budget, and lead pastor.This week we hear from Mike Roth and his son, Asher, as Mike reflects on his hear for families at Pearl Church.

Preaching: Mike RothIf you grew up in the church, chances are that you attended Vacation Bible School (VBS) during summer break. For one warm week you sat on green grass, drank apple juice, and ate graham crackers while an adult used the Flannelgraph to teach you stories from the Bible. For many, these stories sit deep in our consciousness. For some, these stories scared us into Christian faith. This sermon series intends to explore a handful of VBS stories told to children. However, rather than scary storytelling as a motivational tool, this series intends to elevate loving storytelling that bears the weight of good authority and inspires us into ever-deepening Christian faith.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIf you grew up in the church, chances are that you attended Vacation Bible School (VBS) during summer break. For one warm week you sat on green grass, drank apple juice, and ate graham crackers while an adult used the Flannelgraph to teach you stories from the Bible. For many, these stories sit deep in our consciousness. For some, these stories scared us into Christian faith. This sermon series intends to explore a handful of VBS stories told to children. However, rather than scary storytelling as a motivational tool, this series intends to elevate loving storytelling that bears the weight of good authority and inspires us into ever-deepening Christian faith.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Mike RothIf you grew up in the church, chances are that you attended Vacation Bible School (VBS) during summer break. For one warm week you sat on green grass, drank apple juice, and ate graham crackers while an adult used the Flannelgraph to teach you stories from the Bible. For many, these stories sit deep in our consciousness. For some, these stories scared us into Christian faith. This sermon series intends to explore a handful of VBS stories told to children. However, rather than scary storytelling as a motivational tool, this series intends to elevate loving storytelling that bears the weight of good authority and inspires us into ever-deepening Christian faith.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanIf you grew up in the church, chances are that you attended Vacation Bible School (VBS) during summer break. For one warm week you sat on green grass, drank apple juice, and ate graham crackers while an adult used the Flannelgraph to teach you stories from the Bible. For many, these stories sit deep in our consciousness. For some, these stories scared us into Christian faith. This sermon series intends to explore a handful of VBS stories told to children. However, rather than scary storytelling as a motivational tool, this series intends to elevate loving storytelling that bears the weight of good authority and inspires us into ever-deepening Christian faith.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.

Preaching: Ben ConachanNote: this sermon references clips from the show “We're Here”, on HBO, Season 4, episodes 5 and 6. The clips are not included in the sermon audio.If you grew up in the church, chances are that you attended Vacation Bible School (VBS) during summer break. For one warm week you sat on green grass, drank apple juice, and ate graham crackers while an adult used the Flannelgraph to teach you stories from the Bible. For many, these stories sit deep in our consciousness. For some, these stories scared us into Christian faith. This sermon series intends to explore a handful of VBS stories told to children. However, rather than scary storytelling as a motivational tool, this series intends to elevate loving storytelling that bears the weight of good authority and inspires us into ever-deepening Christian faith.Pearl Church exists to express a sacred story and to extend a common table that animate life by love. A primary expression of our sacred story is the weekly sermon. If our sermons inspire you to ponder the sacred, to consider the mystery and love of God, and to live bountifully, would you consider supporting our work? You can donate easily and securely at our website: pearlchurch.org. Thank you for partnering with us in expressing this sacred story.