March 8, 2026 – "When the Samaritan Woman Met Jesus" – Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes

The 3rd Sunday in Lent

March 8th marks the 3rd Sunday in Lent. This week, in the sermon series "Face to Face & Heart to Heart," Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes' sermon "When the Samaritan Woman Met Jesus" will focus on John 4:5-42.

The Samaritan woman, by all rights, should never have spoken to Jesus. She was a woman, and a member of a despised “heretical” branch of Judaism. Yet their conversation is the longest one recorded in scripture. As she is willing to tell the truth about her life and relationships, Jesus also tells the truth about himself: that he is the Messiah. The Samaritan woman becomes the one of the first evangelists and preachers, calling her friends to come and see the man who knows the truth. Meeting Jesus encourages us to be truth-tellers, both about our own lives and about the God we love.

Notes from the Bench

This Sunday, as we continue our Lenten journey Face to Face & Heart to Heart and reflect on When the Samaritan Woman Met Jesus (Gospel of John 4:5–42), we also celebrate Women’s History Month through music written by women composers. It is especially fitting that on the Sunday we hear the story of a courageous woman who becomes the first evangelist to her community, the voices of women also lead us musically in worship.

Our prelude, Prelude in D Minor, is by Clara Schumann (1819–1896). Renowned as one of the greatest pianists of the Romantic era, Clara was also a gifted composer who balanced an international performing career with raising eight children and preserving the legacy of her husband, Robert Schumann. Her music is expressive and deeply introspective — qualities that beautifully frame this Lenten season of reflection and honest encounter with Christ.

The offertory, Springs of Salvation, is by Margaret Sandresky (b. 1921). A distinguished American composer, organist, and scholar, Sandresky has long been respected for her contributions to sacred organ literature and hymn-based compositions. The title itself echoes today’s scripture: living water, wells of grace, and hearts transformed by Christ’s presence.

Our postlude, Postlude on “Darwall’s 148th”, is by Brenda Portman (b. 1980), an accomplished contemporary organist and composer whose works are widely performed in churches and concert halls. Her vibrant setting sends us forth with confidence and joy.

The anthem, That Old Time Need of Prayer, and our closing hymn, I’ve Just Come from the Fountain, continue the theme of spiritual thirst and renewal. Like the Samaritan woman, may we leave this place refreshed — having met Christ face to face and heart to heart — and may we carry that living water into the world.

Worship Service will also include the hymns Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah, People Need the Lord and I've Just Come from the Fountain. 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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