Pearl Church Sermons

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Sermons at Pearl seek to engage the ancient stories, poems, and letters in the Bible through imaginative oration that rouses our wholeness as human beings. The act of the sermon at Pearl is space to ponder the sacred, opportunity to consider the mystery and love of God, and provocation to slow down,…

Pearl Church preaching team


    • Mar 1, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 24m AVG DURATION
    • 388 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Pearl Church Sermons

    Loving Fear

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2026 19:52


    Preaching: Mike RothAt Pearl Church, we seek to express a sacred story and extend a common table that animate—move, motivate, inspire—our lives by Divine Love. Very often we find ourselves animated not by love, but by all-too familiar counterfeits like shame, fear, guilt, duty, and control. In this sermon series, we look to the life of Jesus, who turns a gentle and compassionate face toward people caught up in these animations, creating space for us to listen for the voice of love that beckons even in our deepest wounds and darkness. For love is strong enough to embrace and integrate all these animations, making us whole.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.

    Loving Shame

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 23:44


    Preaching: Ben ConachanAt Pearl Church, we seek to express a sacred story and extend a common table that animate—move, motivate, inspire—our lives by Divine Love. Very often we find ourselves animated not by love, but by all-too familiar counterfeits like shame, fear, guilt, duty, and control. In this sermon series, we look to the life of Jesus, who turns a gentle and compassionate face toward people caught up in these animations, creating space for us to listen for the voice of love that beckons even in our deepest wounds and darkness. For love is strong enough to embrace and integrate all these animations, making us whole.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.

    Transfiguration Sunday: What is Possible?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 19:24


    Preaching: Mike RothToday is Transfiguration Sunday. 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. 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.

    Christ the Wisdom of God

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2026 21:40


    Preaching: Ben ConachanThe tradition of wisdom is expansive. On the one hand, conventional wisdom provides insights into living when life goes as it's expected to go. On the other hand, radical wisdom provides insights into living when life takes surprising turns. Then there's stages of wisdom—pre-rational, rational, and post-rational—which offer unique insights into our many phases of development. And of course, in our Christian tradition, there's Christ, who is called, “The wisdom of God.” This sermon series will plumb the depths of wisdom's complexity, seeking light capable of holding us, grounding us, and inspiring us, no matter the circumstance or stage we find ourselves in.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.

    Song of Songs' Light

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2026 21:37


    Preaching: Ben ConachanThe tradition of wisdom is expansive. On the one hand, conventional wisdom provides insights into living when life goes as it's expected to go. On the other hand, radical wisdom provides insights into living when life takes surprising turns. Then there's stages of wisdom—pre-rational, rational, and post-rational—which offer unique insights into our many phases of development. And of course, in our Christian tradition, there's Christ, who is called, “The wisdom of God.” This sermon series will plumb the depths of wisdom's complexity, seeking light capable of holding us, grounding us, and inspiring us, no matter the circumstance or stage we find ourselves in.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.

    Job's Light

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2026 20:54


    Preaching: Mike RothThe tradition of wisdom is expansive. On the one hand, conventional wisdom provides insights into living when life goes as it's expected to go. On the other hand, radical wisdom provides insights into living when life takes surprising turns. Then there's stages of wisdom—pre-rational, rational, and post-rational—which offer unique insights into our many phases of development. And of course, in our Christian tradition, there's Christ, who is called, “The wisdom of God.” This sermon series will plumb the depths of wisdom's complexity, seeking light capable of holding us, grounding us, and inspiring us, no matter the circumstance or stage we find ourselves in.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.

    Ecclesiastes' Light

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2026 22:37


    Preaching: Mike RothThe tradition of wisdom is expansive. On the one hand, conventional wisdom provides insights into living when life goes as it's expected to go. On the other hand, radical wisdom provides insights into living when life takes surprising turns. Then there's stages of wisdom—pre-rational, rational, and post-rational—which offer unique insights into our many phases of development. And of course, in our Christian tradition, there's Christ, who is called, “The wisdom of God.” This sermon series will plumb the depths of wisdom's complexity, seeking light capable of holding us, grounding us, and inspiring us, no matter the circumstance or stage we find ourselves in.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.

    Proverbs' Light

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2026 24:09


    Preaching: Ben ConachanWisdom's LightThe tradition of wisdom is expansive. On the one hand, conventional wisdom provides insights into living when life goes as it's expected to go. On the other hand, radical wisdom provides insights into living when life takes surprising turns. Then there's stages of wisdom—pre-rational, rational, and post-rational—which offer unique insights into our many phases of development. And of course, in our Christian tradition, there's Christ, who is called, “The wisdom of God.” This sermon series will plumb the depths of wisdom's complexity, seeking light capable of holding us, grounding us, and inspiring us, no matter the circumstance or stage we find ourselves in.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.

    Longing for Lasting Peace

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2026


    Preaching: Carlos FernandezPearl 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.

    Held by Favor

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 21:02


    Preaching: Mike RothMuch is wrong with the world and it breaks our hearts. We feel discouraged. We feel overwhelmed. We feel hopeless. Our Advent sermon series, Held by Longing, will plumb the depths of our sorrow. But then, we'll keep going. We'll follow the prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures in considering how our discouragement, overwhelm, and hopelessness can, like the North Star, hold us in light that guides us onward. Onward, to participate in Divine Love, which is capable of making all things new.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.

    Held by Healing

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2025 23:10


    Preaching: Ben ConachanMuch is wrong with the world and it breaks our hearts. We feel discouraged. We feel overwhelmed. We feel hopeless. Our Advent sermon series, Held by Longing, will plumb the depths of our sorrow. But then, we'll keep going. We'll follow the prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures in considering how our discouragement, overwhelm, and hopelessness can, like the North Star, hold us in light that guides us onward. Onward, to participate in Divine Love, which is capable of making all things new.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.

    Held by Freedom

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2025 26:45


    Preaching: Ben ConachanMuch is wrong with the world and it breaks our hearts. We feel discouraged. We feel overwhelmed. We feel hopeless. Our Advent sermon series, Held by Longing, will plumb the depths of our sorrow. But then, we'll keep going. We'll follow the prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures in considering how our discouragement, overwhelm, and hopelessness can, like the North Star, hold us in light that guides us onward. Onward, to participate in Divine Love, which is capable of making all things new.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.

    Held by Peace

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2025 23:42


    Preaching: Mike RothMuch is wrong with the world and it breaks our hearts. We feel discouraged. We feel overwhelmed. We feel hopeless. Our Advent sermon series, Held by Longing, will plumb the depths of our sorrow. But then, we'll keep going. We'll follow the prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures in considering how our discouragement, overwhelm, and hopelessness can, like the North Star, hold us in light that guides us onward. Onward, to participate in Divine Love, which is capable of making all things new.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.

    Estrangement, or Union?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2025 23:56


    Preaching: Ben ConachanIf the Bible isn't a rule book or a clear-cut moral guide for every decision that we need to make, how do we go about discerning what is good? Perhaps you're in the midst of making a big decision, or perhaps you wrestle with knowing how to discern what's best when making decisions, or perhaps, as you've come to realize that the Bible doesn't definitively direct particular judgments that you need to make about life and godliness, you're looking for a thoughtful way to make wise decisions. If any of these statements speak to where you're at, then we're hopeful that this sermon series, centering around a series of questions to guide our discernment, will inform, support, and encouragement your flourishing, especially now, when discerning goodness is increasingly important.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.

    Scarcity or Self-Giving?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2025 25:47


    Preaching: Mike RothIf the Bible isn't a rule book or a clear-cut moral guide for every decision that we need to make, how do we go about discerning what is good? Perhaps you're in the midst of making a big decision, or perhaps you wrestle with knowing how to discern what's best when making decisions, or perhaps, as you've come to realize that the Bible doesn't definitively direct particular judgments that you need to make about life and godliness, you're looking for a thoughtful way to make wise decisions. If any of these statements speak to where you're at, then we're hopeful that this sermon series, centering around a series of questions to guide our discernment, will inform, support, and encouragement your flourishing, especially now, when discerning goodness is increasingly important.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.

    Perfectionism, or Transformation?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2025 21:18


    Preaching: Ben ConachanIf the Bible isn't a rule book or a clear-cut moral guide for every decision that we need to make, how do we go about discerning what is good? Perhaps you're in the midst of making a big decision, or perhaps you wrestle with knowing how to discern what's best when making decisions, or perhaps, as you've come to realize that the Bible doesn't definitively direct particular judgments that you need to make about life and godliness, you're looking for a thoughtful way to make wise decisions. If any of these statements speak to where you're at, then we're hopeful that this sermon series, centering around a series of questions to guide our discernment, will inform, support, and encouragement your flourishing, especially now, when discerning goodness is increasingly important.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.

    All Saints Reflections

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2025 29:56


    Preaching: Mike Roth, Keith Johnson, & Megan Eales MonroeThe 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.This morning, we hear from Pearl Church members Keith Johnson and Megan Eales Monroe, who share about particular saints—Gene Robinson, and Rachel Held Evans—whose lives have been meaningful for them.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.

    Self-Sufficiency, or Community?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2025 23:02


    Preaching: Mike RothIf the Bible isn't a rule book or a clear-cut moral guide for every decision that we need to make, how do we go about discerning what is good? Perhaps you're in the midst of making a big decision, or perhaps you wrestle with knowing how to discern what's best when making decisions, or perhaps, as you've come to realize that the Bible doesn't definitively direct particular judgments that you need to make about life and godliness, you're looking for a thoughtful way to make wise decisions. If any of these statements speak to where you're at, then we're hopeful that this sermon series, centering around a series of questions to guide our discernment, will inform, support, and encouragement your flourishing, especially now, when discerning goodness is increasingly important.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.

    Covering, or Uncovering?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2025 25:07


    Preaching: Mike RothIf the Bible isn't a rule book or a clear-cut moral guide for every decision that we need to make, how do we go about discerning what is good? Perhaps you're in the midst of making a big decision, or perhaps you wrestle with knowing how to discern what's best when making decisions, or perhaps, as you've come to realize that the Bible doesn't definitively direct particular judgments that you need to make about life and godliness, you're looking for a thoughtful way to make wise decisions. If any of these statements speak to where you're at, then we're hopeful that this sermon series, centering around a series of questions to guide our discernment, will inform, support, and encouragement your flourishing, especially now, when discerning goodness is increasingly important.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.

    Chaos, or Creation?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 12, 2025 24:07


    Preaching: Ben ConachanIf the Bible isn't a rule book or a clear-cut moral guide for every decision that we need to make, how do we go about discerning what is good? Perhaps you're in the midst of making a big decision, or perhaps you wrestle with knowing how to discern what's best when making decisions, or perhaps, as you've come to realize that the Bible doesn't definitively direct particular judgments that you need to make about life and godliness, you're looking for a thoughtful way to make wise decisions. If any of these statements speak to where you're at, then we're hopeful that this sermon series, centering around a series of questions to guide our discernment, will inform, support, and encouragement your flourishing, especially now, when discerning goodness is increasingly important.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.

    A Trellis for the Animation of Divine Love

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2025 22:04


    Preaching: Mike RothPearl Church exists to cultivate three rhythms—Sacred Story, Common Table, and Divine Love. In fact, these rhythms work together. We often say, “At Pearl, we express a Sacred Story and extend a Common Table that animate life by Divine Love.” But how exactly do we cultivate these rhythms? And is it possible to cultivate these rhythms outside of Pearl? This sermon series will explore the metaphor of a trellis to help us thoughtfully discern the sacredness of our stories, commonality of our tables, and animations of our lives as we seek to cultivate robust living marked by 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.

    A Trellis for Common Table

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 26:17


    Preaching: Ben ConachanPearl Church exists to cultivate three rhythms—Sacred Story, Common Table, and Divine Love. In fact, these rhythms work together. We often say, “At Pearl, we express a Sacred Story and extend a Common Table that animate life by Divine Love.” But how exactly do we cultivate these rhythms? And is it possible to cultivate these rhythms outside of Pearl? This sermon series will explore the metaphor of a trellis to help us thoughtfully discern the sacredness of our stories, commonality of our tables, and animations of our lives as we seek to cultivate robust living marked by 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.

    A Trellis for Sacred Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 25:10


    Preaching: Mike RothPearl Church exists to cultivate three rhythms—Sacred Story, Common Table, and Divine Love. In fact, these rhythms work together. We often say, “At Pearl, we express a Sacred Story and extend a Common Table that animate life by Divine Love.” But how exactly do we cultivate these rhythms? And is it possible to cultivate these rhythms outside of Pearl? This sermon series will explore the metaphor of a trellis to help us thoughtfully discern the sacredness of our stories, commonality of our tables, and animations of our lives as we seek to cultivate robust living marked by 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.

    Sabbatical Reflections

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2025 22:19


    Preaching: Mike RothPastor Mike reflects on his summer sabbatical, and some of the goodness which grew up for him during this season away.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.

    A New Gospel (Matthew 4:12-22)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2025 26:33


    Preaching: Ben ConachanWhat is it to be a community? What binds people together? Over the ages, we humans have tried many answers to these questions—shared enemies, religious belief and ritual, political allegiance, common heritage, charismatic leaders and more. In times of instability, change and division, like our own, the questions take on a new life, as we wonder how we can imagine a common life together in a time of such division. In this series on the book of Matthew, we'll explore how this Gospel intends to shape a new community of shared life in those called to into the way of Jesus. Setting aside both empire and religious tradition, Jesus subverts king and kingdom with the open invitation to the kindom of 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.

    A New Creativity (Matthew 4:1-11)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2025 28:08


    Preaching: Ben ConachanWhat is it to be a community? What binds people together? Over the ages, we humans have tried many answers to these questions—shared enemies, religious belief and ritual, political allegiance, common heritage, charismatic leaders and more. In times of instability, change and division, like our own, the questions take on a new life, as we wonder how we can imagine a common life together in a time of such division. In this series on the book of Matthew, we'll explore how this Gospel intends to shape a new community of shared life in those called to into the way of Jesus. Setting aside both empire and religious tradition, Jesus subverts king and kingdom with the open invitation to the kindom of 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.

    A New Awareness (Matthew 3:1-17)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2025 25:20


    Preaching: Ben ConachanWhat is it to be a community? What binds people together? Over the ages, we humans have tried many answers to these questions—shared enemies, religious belief and ritual, political allegiance, common heritage, charismatic leaders and more. In times of instability, change and division, like our own, the questions take on a new life, as we wonder how we can imagine a common life together in a time of such division. In this series on the book of Matthew, we'll explore how this Gospel intends to shape a new community of shared life in those called to into the way of Jesus. Setting aside both empire and religious tradition, Jesus subverts king and kingdom with the open invitation to the kindom of 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.

    A New Posture (Matthew 11:25-30)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2025 24:31


    Preaching: Carlos FernandezWhat is it to be a community? What binds people together? Over the ages, we humans have tried many answers to these questions—shared enemies, religious belief and ritual, political allegiance, common heritage, charismatic leaders and more. In times of instability, change and division, like our own, the questions take on a new life, as we wonder how we can imagine a common life together in a time of such division. In this series on the book of Matthew, we'll explore how this Gospel intends to shape a new community of shared life in those called to into the way of Jesus. Setting aside both empire and religious tradition, Jesus subverts king and kingdom with the open invitation to the kindom of 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.

    A New History (Matthew 1:18-2:23)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2025 24:13


    Preaching: Ben ConachanWhat is it to be a community? What binds people together? Over the ages, we humans have tried many answers to these questions—shared enemies, religious belief and ritual, political allegiance, common heritage, charismatic leaders and more. In times of instability, change and division, like our own, the questions take on a new life, as we wonder how we can imagine a common life together in a time of such division. In this series on the book of Matthew, we'll explore how this Gospel intends to shape a new community of shared life in those called to into the way of Jesus. Setting aside both empire and religious tradition, Jesus subverts king and kingdom with the open invitation to the kindom of 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.

    A New Kin (Matthew 1:1-17)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2025 26:57


    Preaching: Ben ConachanWhat is it to be a community? What binds people together? Over the ages, we humans have tried many answers to these questions—shared enemies, religious belief and ritual, political allegiance, common heritage, charismatic leaders and more. In times of instability, change and division, like our own, the questions take on a new life, as we wonder how we can imagine a common life together in a time of such division. In this series on the book of Matthew, we'll explore how this Gospel intends to shape a new community of shared life in those called to into the way of Jesus. Setting aside both empire and religious tradition, Jesus subverts king and kingdom with the open invitation to the kindom of 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.

    Woven into Relationship

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2025 31:57


    Preaching: Jen JohnsonThis week we hear from Pearl Church member Jen Johnson as she reflects on the ways we are woven into community and the generous gifts offered by those who courageously open themselves to belonging.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.

    Oversight Team Reflections: Ben Conachan

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2025 23:59


    Preaching: Ben ConachanIt'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.

    Oversight Team Reflections: Leah Griffin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2025 20:47


    Preaching: Leah GriffinIt'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.

    Oversight Team Reflections: Tym Andrews

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2025 17:51


    Preaching: Tym AndrewsNote: Due to a technical issue, the sermon recording is poor quality this week.It'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.

    Oversight Team Reflections: Valinda Harlan

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2025 20:35


    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.

    Oversight Team Reflections: Cheri Gilbert

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2025 26:36


    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.

    Oversight Team Reflections: Mike Roth

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2025 25:49


    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.

    Envy to Equanimity

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2025 24:43


    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.

    Sloth to Peacemaking

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2025 22:53


    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.

    Lust to Delight

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2025 22:20


    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.

    Deceit to Integrity

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2025 22:47


    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.

    Pride to Humility

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2025 21:18


    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.

    Anger to Acceptance

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2025 23:48


    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.

    Easter Sunday: The Eighth Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2025 21:42


    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.

    Palm Sunday: "If You Are...:

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2025 29:43


    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.

    A Vocabulary of Suffering: Death

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2025 21:20


    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.

    A Vocabulary of Suffering: Idolatry

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2025 23:50


    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.

    A Vocabulary of Suffering: Satan

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2025 29:09


    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.

    A Vocabulary of Suffering: Sin

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2025 27:18


    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.

    Reclaiming Christian Language for Suffering

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2025 22:49


    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.

    Transfiguration

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2025 26:42


    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.

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