April 19, 2026 – "A Surprising Friendship" – Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes

The 3rd Sunday of Easter

April 19th marks the 3rd Sunday of Easter. This week, in the sermon series "Surprise! The Unexpected Acts of God" Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes' sermon "A Surprising Friendship" will focus on Acts 9:1-20.

God often brings us the surprising gift of friendships we never expected. Ananias and Saul were natural enemies. They were headed for a collision course, not a bromance. Saul had stood guard over the execution of Stephen, the first Christian martyr and one of Ananias's brothers in faith. Only God knows how he can use someone, no matter how lost or antagonistic they seem to us.

Notes from the Bench

Eastertide: A Season of Surprise

Our Eastertide series continues this week with music that delights in the unexpected—reminding us that the Resurrection itself is the greatest and most joyful surprise of all.

The prelude, Andantino (To My Wife) by Edwin Lemare (1865–1934), offers a gentle and lyrical opening. Listen carefully in the middle section for a charming surprise: a “duet” effect created by a single performer playing on two manuals at once with one hand. The result is an intimate and expressive conversation within the instrument itself.

At the offertory, we hear Toccata in Seven by John Rutter (b. 1945). Its driving energy is shaped by an unusual and lively 7/8 meter. This asymmetrical rhythm keeps both performer and listener slightly off balance—in the best possible way—creating a sense of forward motion and joyful unpredictability.

The postlude brings us to the bold and dramatic Toccata in D Minor by Dietrich Buxtehude (c. 1637–1707). In the North German organ tradition, music often unfolds in contrasting sections filled with flourishes, sudden pauses, and striking changes in texture. These elements combine to create a sense of grandeur and spontaneity—full of musical surprises that keep the listener engaged to the very end.

Worship Service will also include the hymns Christ is Alive, What a Friend We Have in Jesus, and My Hope is Built along with our Anthem, Wind of the Spirit by Dave and Jean Perry, sung by the Chancel Choir with Laura Tongring, flute.

Come join us at 9:00 a.m. as we Worship Together this Sunday. We hope something in this music and message uplifts and strengthens your spirit. You are always welcome here.

📺 Watch the full service here: Link

📖 Download the bulletin: Link