The Epistle
July 1, 2026
A Word from Pastor Jon
Happy Independence Day, and happy 250th birthday, America.
This Sunday we will hear one of Jesus’ most beloved parables, the story of the shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to search for the one sheep that is missing. It speaks to a quiet wound many people carry. We wonder if anyone would notice if we disappeared. We wonder whether we have wandered too far for God to come looking.
Jesus answers with a resounding yes. God notices. God searches. God calls us by name and does not give up when we lose our way.
As we celebrate our nation’s birthday, I hope we will also remember those who feel forgotten. Make the phone call. Visit a neighbor. Invite someone to your table. Heaven rejoices every time one person is found.
Grace has always counted differently.
Peace,
Pastor Jon
Worship This Sunday
Sunday, July 5, 2026
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
Sermon: Lost and Found
Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11-16
New Testament: Luke 15:1-7
This week we explore one of Jesus’ most beloved parables, the shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that is lost. Together we will discover what this surprising story reveals about the heart of God and what it means for our lives today.
Sunday Schedule
9:30 a.m. Adult Sunday School
11:00 a.m. Worship in the Sanctuary and live on Facebook
1:30 p.m. Book Study on Zoom
Summer Quarterly Bible Study
Registration is open for our
Summer Quarterly Bible Study on
Saturday, July 18, from
8:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
This year’s theme is
“Parables.” Children, youth, and adults will enjoy age-appropriate Bible study, discussion, creative activities, fellowship, and shared meals as we explore the stories Jesus told and their meaning for our lives today.
Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Celebrating with Holly Darr
We rejoice with Holly Darr as she celebrates one year of renewed health following her double lung transplant. We give thanks for God’s faithfulness and continue to keep Holly in our prayers.
Please Pray
Please remember in prayer:
- The family of Connie Brown
- Phyllis Freeman, now receiving hospice care
- Shirley Boyd and family
- Jessica Ivete Robles, awaiting a kidney transplant
- David Wintersgill
- Becky Crawford
- Glen Risley
- Tom Edmondson
- Holly Darr
- Kelsey Wiltz
- Our college students
- The families in our PCHAS Single Parent Family Ministry
- One Hope Preschool families and staff
Summer Sermon Series
Parables of the Kingdom
Stories Jesus Told That We’re Still Figuring Out
Throughout the summer we are exploring some of Jesus’ most surprising parables. These familiar stories continue to challenge our assumptions and reveal the unexpected nature of God’s kingdom.
Upcoming sermons include:
July 5
Lost and Found
July 12
The Interrupted Judge
July 19
Seeds That Fail (And One That Doesn’t)
July 26
The Buried Treasure
August 2
Ten Girls and One Door
August 9
The Final Accounting
We’d Love to Meet You
Whether you have been part of a church for years or are simply wondering where to begin, you are welcome at St. John’s Presbyterian Church.
We worship each Sunday at
11:00 a.m. and would be honored to welcome you.
For more information about worship, ministries, and upcoming events, please visit our website or contact the church office.
