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In this short Ash Wednesday sermon, recorded as part of the Iowa Preacher’s Project, Loren reflects on an unsettling moment, the social location of Jesus, and Isaiah 58’s challenge to rethink what faithful fasting actually costs us. A meditation on Lent, desire, and what it means to be taken by God’s story rather than shaping one of our own.

In a sermon originally preached at Broomfield United Methodist Church, Loren explores how physical faith practices—like kneeling, standing, praying, and singing—can sustain us when we don’t feel our faith. Drawing from personal stories and scripture, he challenges the idea that faith is just about thoughts and emotions, and reminds us that our bodies can carry belief even when our hearts feel distant.

In this message, originally delivered at Northglenn United Church of Christ, Loren explores how apocalyptic fears have shaped human history, from failed predictions like "88 Reasons Why the Rapture Will Be in 1988" to contemporary concerns about climate change, political division, and global conflict. Drawing from Mark 13, Loren reflects on how moments of uncertainty and anxiety often feel like the end of the world, emphasizing the biblical perspective that God, not humans, directs history and brings ultimate salvation. Loren encourages listeners to place their trust in God by engaging in prayer, reading Scripture, and showing love to others, even in times of fear or disillusionment. Highlighting passages such as Psalms 46 and 91, 1 Samuel 2, and Hebrews 10, he reminds us of God’s faithfulness and redemptive work throughout history. The message challenges Christians to resist despair, which denies God’s ongoing presence, and instead choose hope—living in trust that God continues to work in the world. Loren invites us to participate in this redemptive work through acts of faith, love, and kindness, even toward those who see the world differently, and to find peace by focusing on what we can control while trusting in God’s promises.

In this sermon, originally preached 10.13.24 at Northglenn United Church of Christ, Loren delves into the power of prayer and the concept of miracles in a secular age. Through the lens of a touching story shared by Dennis Sanders, a former hospice chaplain, he explores the challenges of maintaining faith in a world that often dismisses the supernatural. Listen in as he reflects on the importance of prayer, the teachings of Jesus, and the role of religion in providing hope and transformation beyond our human efforts. This episode invites you to reconsider the impact of prayer and the potential for divine intervention in our lives.

In this message, originally given 9/15/24 at Northglenn United Church of Christ, Loren delves into the challenges of breaking bad habits and the parallels between personal struggles and faith journeys. He explores the difficulty of letting go of unhealthy habits, the importance of asking hard questions, and the call to authentic discipleship from Mark 8.

In this sermon, Loren Richmond Jr. explores the metaphor of bread as both a source of physical and spiritual nourishment. Beginning with personal stories about the joy of bread, he connects these to Jesus' teaching as the "bread of life" from John 6. Loren discusses the spiritual hunger prevalent in today's society, particularly among young people affected by social media. He emphasizes the need for lasting fulfillment through a deep connection with God, rather than temporary pleasures. The message concludes by encouraging the sharing of this spiritual "bread" with others to address the world's hunger for genuine connection and fulfillment. Audio from a sermon delivered 8.11.24 at Northglenn United Church of Christ.

In this message, Loren talks about the "closeness communication bias" and how it affects our relationships, from spouses to coworkers. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, he explores why we often tune out those closest to us and how to overcome this barrier to improve our connections. Listen in for a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of listening, empathy, and understanding in fostering healthier, more inclusive relationships.

In this message, Loren explores the profound challenges facing the American church today. As congregations dwindle and faith communities grapple with modern secular distractions, he delves into the historical and contemporary parallels of religious decline. Drawing insights from Brian McLaren's book "Life after Doom" and Ted Smith's "The End of Theological Education," he discusses the potential scenarios for the future of Christianity in America. Listen in as he examines the role of worship, prayer, and waiting in navigating these turbulent times and considers the possibility of collapse and rebirth. Audio from Sermon preached at Northglenn United Church of Christ Sunday, June 2, 2024 from Mark 2:23-3:6.

As we navigate the ups and downs of life, we all experience moments of tragedy and heartbreak. In those times, it can be difficult to find comfort and hope. Loren Richmond shares how faith and the presence of God can provide a source of strength and peace even in the darkest of times.

In sports and in life, desperation is a concept that can have a significant impact. Take, for example, the NCAA basketball tournament. The pressure to win can lead players and coaches to desperate measures. But desperation is not limited to sports. As we see in the story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, the crowds and leaders were desperate for different things. This raises the question: what are we desperate for in our own lives? Are our priorities in the right place? 

A message delivered at Washington Park United Methodist Church from John 9, with Pastor Loren reflecting that the key question might be, who can really see?

A message shared at Wash Park UMC on breaking free from guilt and Micah 6:1-8

Preaching on Epiphany Sunday, Loren speaks from Matthew 2:1-12 about the importance of not missing the point in the story of the Magi and in the story of our lives.

Speaking during the church's annual Stewardship Campaign, Loren talks about the importance of making sure prayer is always an essential part of our decision-making process.

In our systematized and mechanized world, we can so often get stuck in our schedules and routines that we miss out on experiencing awe and wonder, which leads to gratitude and thankfulness for all is from God and a gift of God. (John 1:1-5).