Advertise on podcast: Beech Grove UMC Sermons

October 26, 2025 Sermon Title: Who Are You? Scripture: Romans 12:1-2 Focus: Becoming more Christlike takes intentional and daily commitment. When we put on the ‘Christ clothes’ of compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, and love, our inner transformation overflows into our relationships and our way of life. Join us each week for worship at 10:30 on Sunday morning—either in-person or virtually—in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time. Beech Grove UMC— 4251 Driver Lane Suffolk, Va 23435 Website: ⁠beechgroveumc.org⁠ If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: Email - ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠,Call our office - (757) 538-8353Message us on Facebook

June 29, 2025 Sermon Title: Sacred Memory Scripture: Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 Hymn: Great is Thy Faithfulness (UMH 140) Song: Coat of Many Colors by Dolly Parton Focus: When God feels distant, we return to stories, songs, and sacred moments that have guided us. Reminding ourselves of God’s faithfulness, even when it’s not evident, keeps us grounded in truth and hope. Join us each week for worship at 10:30 on Sunday morning—either in-person or virtually—in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time. Beech Grove UMC— 4251 Driver Lane Suffolk, Va 23435 Website: beechgroveumc.org If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠,Call our office - (757) 538-8353Message us on Facebook

Originally Preached June 22, 2025 by Rev. Andrew WareSeries: Sacred EchoesSermon Title: Longing for SomethingScripture: Psalm 42Hymn: As the Deer (TFWS 2025)Song: Fast Car by Tracy ChapmanFocus: Our lives are filled with longings for change, healing, escape, restoration, and love. How do we sit with our sadness, name our unmet needs honestly, and trust that divine presence, not escape, leads to something better.

Originally Preached June 15, 2025 by Rev. Andrew WareSeries: Sacred EchoesSermon Title: Here We StandScripture: Psalm 8 Hymn: How Great Thou Art (UMH 77)Song: What a Wonderful World (Originally perfromed by Louis Armstrong)Key Theme: In the vastness of creation, we glimpse God’s majesty — and are reminded that we matter. We come to grips with God’s grandeur and our understanding of human dignity. We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: Community Worship: 10:30 AM-Beech Grove UMC Sanctuary (4251 Driver Lane Suffolk, Va 23434)Virtual Worship: 1030 AM on our Website If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠,Call our office - (757) 538-8353Message us on Facebook

First Sunday of Advent Theme: God with Zechariah, the Skeptic Scripture: Luke 1:5-16, 23-25, 76-80 Focus: There are moments when circumstances in life or deferred hopes and dreams may feel like a heavy burden with no relief in sight, from smaller expectations to deeper concerns, such as job security, financial responsibility and fragile relationships. While all of us face the mystery of what tomorrow may bring, the assurance we have is that when we pray, God is with us. Find the full service and Sermon Notes: beechgroveumc.org/worship If you would like to give to the mission in ministry at Beech Grove please follow the link below: https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z2JD CCLI #3262595

Scripture: Philippians 4:1-7, 10-14, 19 Focus Statement: As we learn what it really means to have enough, we are freed to embrace and leverage what we have. Key Points: True contentment comes not from material wealth but from dependence on Christ. Prayer and gratitude are pathways to peace and contentment. Radical generosity flows from trusting God’s provision, as seen in Paul’s teachings. We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: Community Worship: 10:30 AM-Beech Grove UMC Sanctuary (4251 Driver Lane Suffolk, Va 23434) Virtual Worship: Posted Every Sunday Afternoon (usually) on our Website and Youtube Channel If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠

Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30 Fear can lead to paralysis and missed opportunities. God trusts us with gifts that we are called to steward faithfully. The parable of the talents teaches us to use our resources not for self-preservation, but for the good of others. To watch the full service, click here.  We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: Community Worship: 10:30 AM-Beech Grove UMC Sanctuary (4251 Driver Lane Suffolk, Va 23434) Virtual Worship: Posted Every Sunday Afternoon (usually) on our Website and Youtube Channel If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠, Call our office - (757) 538-8353 Message us on Facebook

Scripture: Luke 19:1-10 When God calls our name, it’s an invitation to a transforming relationship as an agent of grace. Zacchaeus went from being an agent of the state to an agent of God. To watch the full service, click here.  We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: 10:30 AM - Community Worship 10:30 AM - Livestream Service @ ⁠⁠⁠beechgroveumc.org⁠⁠⁠ If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠, Call our office - (757) 538-8353 Message us on Facebook

Scripture: Acts 16:6-15 Explore how the early church operated beyond the confines of the temple or synagogue, taking the gospel into the streets and homes of the people. This week will look at the church’s call to move beyond it's walls. Find the bulletin and sermon notes on our webpage: beechgroveumc.org/worship Note: You can also watch the service live from this website too. If you would like to give to the mission in ministry at Beech Grove please follow the link below: https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z2JD

Scripture: Luke 5:33-39 As we recognize the necessity of change and adaptation in our church practices, we emphasize the significance of embracing novel forms of worship and community that resonate with people’s current circumstances. To watch the full service, click here.  We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: 10:30 AM - Community Worship 10:30 AM - Livestream Service @ ⁠⁠⁠beechgroveumc.org⁠⁠⁠ If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠, Call our office - (757) 538-8353 Message us on Facebook

Scripture: John 1:1-14 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 4 in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. 12 But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. Synopsis In this sermon, we explore the essence of what it means to be the church in the 21st century. Reflecting on John 1:1-14, we examine how the church is called to embody Christ's presence in the world, much like Jesus was the incarnate Word of God. The message challenges us to reconsider the traditional notion of church as merely a building and instead embrace the idea that the church is wherever God's people are. We are encouraged to step beyond our walls, not just inviting others in but going out into our communities, workplaces, and neighborhoods to build relationships and reflect the light of Christ. Drawing from the example of John the Baptist, who ministered in the wilderness, we are called to meet people where they are, both physically and spiritually, and to bring the church to them. This message invites us to rethink how we "practice church" and challenges us to live out the incarnational nature of our faith in today's world. More Information To watch the full service, click here. We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: * 10:30 AM - Community Worship * Virtual Service on our Youtube Channel or Website (usually available Sunday evenings) If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: * Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠, * Call our office - (757) 538-8353 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beechgroveumc.substack.com

Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16 13 ‘You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot. 14 ‘You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Synopsis In this sermon, we explore the parable of the lonely ember, a powerful illustration of how our spiritual fire can dwindle when disconnected from community. While this story is often used to encourage church attendance, today’s message invites us to go deeper. It’s not just about being present in church but about how the church community kindles and sustains our faith. As we navigate the challenges of living in “unprecedented times,” we often feel exhausted, retreating to what feels safe and familiar. But the church is called to adapt, sparking new fires and taking the light of Christ into the world, beyond the comfort of our buildings. Drawing from Christ’s teaching that we are the salt and light of the earth, we are reminded that God’s grace shapes us, and our light must shine in ways that welcome and transform others. We are called to rekindle our own spark and ignite the faith of others, embodying Christ's presence in the world. How is your light shining today? More Information To watch the full service, click here. We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: * 10:30 AM - Community Worship * Virtual Service on our Youtube Channel or Website (usually available Sunday evenings) If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: * Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠, * Call our office - (757) 538-8353 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beechgroveumc.substack.com

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 23 For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ 25 In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. In this sermon, we explore Communion as a profound expression of grace within our faith practice. Rooted in the scriptural foundation provided by 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Communion is described as a means of grace, a holy mystery, where Christ is spiritually present and the invitation is open to all. We emphasize that Communion is not about our worthiness but about Christ's invitation to share in this sacred meal. Paul’s concern for the Corinthian church reminds us of the meal's holiness and the importance of engaging with it respectfully and frequently. We are transformed as Christ’s body through the meal, becoming more Christlike in our daily lives. Rachel Held Evans beautifully illustrates the inclusivity and transformative power of Communion, reminding us that this meal is about grace, presence, and the communal act of dining with Christ. Join us as we delve into the significance of this holy meal and its role in our spiritual journey. AMEN! To watch the full service, click here. We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: * 10:30 AM - Community Worship * 10:30 AM - Livestream Service @ ⁠⁠⁠beechgroveumc.org⁠⁠⁠ If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: * Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠, * Call our office - (757) 538-8353 • • Message us on Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beechgroveumc.substack.com

Scripture: Colossians 3:12-17 In the United Methodist Church, holy conferencing focuses on the ability of laity and clergy to come together and discuss and discern difficult topics guided by the Holy Spirit, which can be a witness to the world. The local church can also engage in holy conferencing through its ministry and decision-making. To watch the full service, click here. We currently have 2 worship options and invite you to join us in the manner in which you are most comfortable at this time: * 10:30 AM - Community Worship * 10:30 AM - Livestream Service @ ⁠⁠⁠beechgroveumc.org⁠⁠⁠ If you feel led to give to Beech Grove and its mission and ministries: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠ If you need to contact us you can reach us at: * Email - ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠, * Call our office - (757) 538-8353 * Message us on Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beechgroveumc.substack.com