Date Posted: 2025-10-27 03:41:47 | Video Duration: 01:06:12
Highland Park Presbyterian Church recently experienced a poignant service filled with reflection and hope. On the second anniversary of the passing of beloved pastor Brian Dunigan, the congregation gathered to worship, remember, and look forward to the promises of God. The service was a blend of heartfelt prayers, uplifting music, and a powerful sermon that touched on themes of grief, resurrection, and the anticipation of Christ’s return.
Pastor Emily Scase opened the service by acknowledging the loss felt by the community while emphasizing that Christians grieve with hope. She invited everyone to mark their calendars for the upcoming All Saints concert on November 1st, a time to remember those who have passed and celebrate the legacy they left behind. Emily reminded the congregation of Brian’s passion for the church and encouraged everyone to embrace their unique callings in their communities.
As the service continued, the theme of Reformation Sunday was celebrated with a focus on the transformative power of Scripture. The sermon, delivered by Pastor Jay, explored the concept of the end times as described in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11. This passage offers one of the clearest views of the afterlife and the second coming of Jesus. Pastor Jay emphasized that the “rapture” is not about evacuation but about the joyous resurrection and return of Jesus, where believers will be united with the Lord.
Pastor Jay also addressed common misconceptions about the end times, using anecdotes to illustrate the hope Christians have in the resurrection. He explained that the resurrection is not just an event to look forward to in the future but a reality that believers can live out now by being “children of the day” who choose light over darkness.
Throughout the service, there was a strong call to action for the congregation to live out their faith actively. Pastor Jay encouraged attendees to remain spiritually awake, to live with the awareness that Jesus is coming back, and to let this truth influence their daily lives. He asked them to consider what influences their thoughts, decisions, and actions—whether it’s the light of Christ or the darkness of the world.
The service also featured a touching segment on the work being done by Haiti Outreach Ministries, highlighting the impact of the church’s support in transforming lives through education, healthcare, and clean water. The congregation was encouraged to continue supporting this mission through prayer and financial contributions.
In closing, the service was a powerful reminder of the hope and assurance that comes from faith in Christ. The congregation was left with the words from Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” The call was to go forth as God’s changed people, with eternity in mind and hearts stirred by God’s love.
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