St. Peter's United Church of Christ

October 13, 2024

After listening to a podcast* about the Church of Christ this week, I visited a nearby congregation. Sadly, like the worship halls of many mainline denominations, the grand sanctuary of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ had only a smattering of attendees. I was warmly welcomed and given the day’s multipage bulletin. An older gentleman sitting two rows back introduced himself and told me which of the hymnals we’d be using.

The organ began a prelude right on time: My Lord, What a Morning! The pastor welcomed us in a strong booming voice which belied his age and physical condition. He made reference to the day’s Bears game and a recent Space-X accomplishment. Another guy announced an informational meeting on the budget and some proposed change to the church constitution. From the floor came notice about participation in the CROP Hunger Walk and word that people could now bring their own labeled cups to store in the church library, thus avoiding the use of Styrofoam. Kudos and kudos! Joys and Concerns time brought news that a tragic death had befallen the family of one of their food pantry partners.

This congregation is apparently quite active despite the small number in attendance today. Besides the endeavors mentioned above, their calendar lists regular sessions for a Scout troop, hand bell choir, and quilters. This past summer they hosted a Geothermal-Solar Celebration and a music theater camp. The church is “open, affirming, and accessible to all.” The Doxology is modified to this: "Praise God above, ye heavenly host: Creator, Christ, and Holy Ghost." Monthly communion is open.

The choir had only three singers this morning, yet they were able to pull off the varied melodic escapades of A Servant in Your Heavenly House. Beautiful. Next was the call to worship, another hymn, a prayer, and passing of the peace before we sat down for the morning message as dappled sunlight flickered through the high multicolored windows.

Rev. Mark Jacobs took the pulpit for a few minutes again. We all love our church, he said, our home here on earth where we find God and peace and a place where we prepare for our final journey. Love, trust, faith are gifts we offer to God; love, grace, and compassion are what God gives to us. It’s simple. Love is the greatest commandment.

Ushers collected offerings and after another song and prayer and the postlude we were finished. (Having learned from last month’s Episcopal visit, I stayed seated this time until the music ended.) The whole service had taken forty-five minutes. Rev. Jacobs was escorted down the aisle to shake hands with people as they went out. I left feeling like I had been to church.

April 2, 2026 NOTE: I came back here for Maundy Thursday service. A small group met in the chapel for scripture, hymns, and communion. Very good.

* The website Ready to Harvest is quite good at sharing the history and beliefs of various church denominations. I recommend it.   https://readytoharvest.com/welcome/