The Second Sunday After the Epiphany
January 18th marks the second Sunday after the Epiphany. This week, in the sermon series "I Can See Clearly Now," Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes' sermon "A Star Is Born" will focus on John 1:29-42.
Notes from the Bench:
Today’s music invites us to move from gentle trust to bold clarity of faith. The prelude, Lead, Kindly Light, arranged by Robert Manookin, is a quiet prayer for guidance—music that leans into hope when the path ahead is still unfolding, trusting that light will come step by step.
At the offertory, We Praise Thy Name, arranged by Matthew Machemer, turns our hearts outward in confident thanksgiving. As the text proclaims God’s greatness, the music reflects a growing assurance—clearer vision expressed through praise.
Our hymn “Christ Is the World’s Light” beautifully anchors today’s theme, proclaiming that true clarity comes not merely from understanding, but from following Christ—the Light who dispels darkness, reveals truth, and calls us to walk as children of that light in the world.
The service concludes with the exuberant Toccata in D minor, BuxWV 155 by Dietrich Buxtehude (c. 1637–1707). This work takes the form of a praeludium, with dramatic, improvisatory passages alternating with polyphonic ones. The young Johann Sebastian Bach walked nearly 200 miles to hear Buxtehude play, and it is easy to imagine how works like this inspired Bach’s own writing—especially the thrilling, athletic pedal solos that would become a hallmark of his style.
From gentle trust to radiant proclamation, today’s music helps us see clearly—guided by Christ, the Light of the world.
Worship Service will also include the hymns Be Still, My Soul and Christ for the World We Sing.
Come join us at 9:00 a.m. as we Worship Together. We hope something in this music and message uplifts and strengthens your spirit. You are always welcome here.
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