Pastor Brian's Blog

Our series for October is called “Stranger Things.”  It is inspired by the first season of the Netflix original show by producers Matt and Ross Duffer.  The plot centers around a small Midwestern town trying to deal with a missing boy, secret government experiments, terrifying supernatural forces, and one strange little girl.  I doubt you have ever heard a sermon series like it! I am a big fan of science fiction, and I know that “Stranger Things” was not written to promote Christian faith.  However, using the lens of faith, I believe it is possible to see connections between certain aspects of the show and our faith.  At other times, our faith offers an alternative view or critique of the “Stranger Things” universe.   You can view the trailer for season one on YouTube. One common thread between “Stranger Things” and the gospel of Jesus is that the world can be a scary, messed up place.  When trouble comes and people are lost,...

I learned about “open houses” from my childhood friend, Jennifer Pritchard.   Her mom was a real estate agent who hosted an open house to give prospective buyers a chance to check out a house for sale.   Mrs. Pritchard would be available during a set time to welcome people who stopped by.   She would show them around the house (or let them wander around).   She also would provide information about the house and answer any questions.   At other times, Jennifer’s mom invited people to her house for special occasions, like a birthday or graduation or holiday, just to have a party.   This type of open house was for those people who were explicitly invited.   Guests could come and go within a specific timeframe.   I could always count on a friendly environment and tasty treats at the Pritchard’s house. September is Open House Month for Trinity Church.   We want to offer the best of both kinds of open house.   We want anyone...