Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. On the desk in the White House Oval Office, during the presidency of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, was a bronze plaque affixed to a wooden surface that read: “O God thy sea is so great and my boat so small.” It reminded him of the awesome responsibilities of being President of the…
Tag: Church
July 2025, Religion
Reflections on Freedom This Fourth of July
Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott, Pastor, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ This Fourth of July marks my first since retiring from my military uniform. After more than two decades of service, I now stand in civilian clothes, reflecting on the meaning of freedom from a new place—one rooted not in command but in calling. I’ve…
June 2025, Religion
5 Understandable Words: “… a heritage from The Lord …”
Pastor Steve Foss There is a cave in Canaan where the patriarchs of Judaism and Muslim heritage are buried. The bodies of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, and Leah are all buried there. It is located in Machpelah (present-day Hebron), which is due south of Jerusalem and on the west side of the west bank,…
June 2025, Religion
What Life Is All About
Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Another winter has passed. Summer is fast approaching. Perhaps now is the time for all that has transpired to be reviewed as we reconcile the past with the present and as we anticipate the future. The experiences for the last six months are recorded for all to see. However, it is…
Religion, June 2025
Embracing the Spirit Of Service
Volunteering for the church is an enriching and fulfilling experience that allows you to serve your community, deepen your faith, and grow personally and spiritually. Churches rely on the dedication and goodwill of volunteers to carry out their mission, provide essential services, and foster a sense of belonging among their congregants. Ways to Volunteer for…
June 2025, Religion
The Resurrection Principle
Mark Wenz “They say the darkest hour is right before the dawn.” —Bob Dylan, “Meet Me in the Morning” “To be a traveler on this earth, you must know how to die and come to life again.” —Goethe Do you trust that you have the power to transform that which seems hopeless into something hopeful…
May 2025, Religion
Sun Lakes Chapel and Chapel Center Beatification Fundraising
Beth Brauer The four participating member congregations of Sun Lakes Chapel and Chapel Center, located at 9240 E. Sun Lakes Blvd., will be raising funds to beautify the facilities and grounds. The participating congregations are Sun Lakes Community Church, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ, Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation, and Sun Lakes Lutheran Church. Other…
November 2024, Religion
Thankfulness for Community and Connection
Reverend Jennifer Lambert As we enter the season of Thanksgiving, many of us take time to reflect on that for which we are most thankful. While family, health, and daily joys often come to mind, I invite you this year to focus on the incredible power of community. In a time when it can feel…
September 2024, Religion
Civility in Crisis
Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott, Pastor, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ In a world where technology instantly connects us, we paradoxically find ourselves more divided and disconnected than ever. The rapid spread of information has brought a troubling decline in civility, a cornerstone of healthy societal interaction. Civility, once the bedrock of our public and…
August 2024, Religion
Reverend Jennifer Lambert Joins Sun Lakes United Methodist Church as Senior Pastor
Sun Lakes United Methodist Church is pleased to announce the appointment of Reverend Jennifer Lambert as its new Senior Pastor, effective July 1, 2024. Reverend Lambert brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to faith and community service. Reverend Lambert previously served at Red Mountain United Methodist Church in Mesa and Journey United…