
Spring Forth
By First Congregational McGregor
A weekly sermon podcast from the First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
Where to listen

May 15, 2002 - The Fifth Sunday of Easter
Season 3 - Episode 51
Easter 5 / Bring Them Inside
01:04:46
May 15, 2022

Assumptions of Righteousness
Season 3 - Episode 50
Motivation Text: Ecclesiastes 7:16 - 22
12:50
May 11, 2022

A Once Proud Tradition
Season 3 - Episode 49
Where did the passion go for church involvement?
10:58
May 04, 2022

May 1, 2022 - The Third Sunday of Easter
Season 3 - Episode 48
Easter 3 / A New Perspective
01:10:42
May 01, 2022

Spiritual Discussions: The Importance of Daily Devotions
Season 3 - Episode 47
Daily devotions are a wonderful spiritual practice that keep us tethered to the word of God in small but signifiganct ways. Any time spent reflecting on the scriptures is always time well spent.
05:41
April 27, 2022

April 24, 2022 - The Second Sunday After Easter
Season 3 / Episode 46
Easter 2 / If Only I Could See
01:04:34
April 24, 2022

April 17, 2022 - The Resurrection of Our Lord
Season 3 - Episode 44
Easter / To Be Believed
01:04:58
April 17, 2022

April 10, 2022 - Palm Sunday
Season 3 - Episode 41
Palm Sunday / Cloaked Enthusiasm
57:12
April 10, 2022

The Fifth Week of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 40
It is a good time to focus on Holy Week.
05:51
April 06, 2022

The Fourth Week of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 38
We are mostly through Lent, it is time to start thinking about how we will apply these lessons we have learned in the seasons to come.
06:44
March 30, 2022

March 27, 2022 - The Fourth Sunday of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 37
Lent 4 / Grace Misunderstood
01:11:52
March 27, 2022

The Third Week of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 36
The skills we learn in Lent we can apply throughout our life.
06:04
March 23, 2022

March 20, 2022 - The Third Sunday of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 35
Lent 3 / Repent or Perish; some choice...
58:21
March 20, 2022

The Second Week of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 34
We are now two weeks into Lent.
Are you having difficulty being still?
09:01
March 16, 2022

March 13, 2022 - The Second Sunday of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 33
Lent 2 / The Prince, The Prophet and The People.
01:03:13
March 13, 2022

The First Week Of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 32
We are one week into our lenten journey. Are you making progress?
06:27
March 09, 2022

March 6, 2022 - The First Sunday of Lent
Season 3 - Episode 31
Lent 1 / Shortcutting the Cross?
52:33
March 06, 2022

Lent 2022 Begins
Season 3 - Episode 29. Online Lenten Devotional from Princeton Theological Seminary
03:08
March 02, 2022

February 27, 2022 - The Eighth Sunday after the Epiphany / The Transfiguration of Jesus
Season 3 - Episode 28
Epiphany 8 / Those Who Came Before Us
Music by Jacki Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
53:03
February 27, 2022

February 20, 2022 - The Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany
Season 3 - Episode 26
Epiphany 7 / Results Will Vary....
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:24
February 20, 2022

Accumulation
Season 3 - Episode 25
As spring nears, it is probably time to start thinking about liberating needed space in your church.
11:35
February 16, 2022

February 13, 2022 - The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany
Season 3 - Episode 24
Epiphany 6 / Living the New Life
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:30
February 13, 2022

Priming Faith
Season 3 - Episode 23
Evangelism is difficult work.
Articles of Interest
The Lonley Crowd by Mike Frost
Why Churches Should Drop Their Online Services by Tish Harrison Warren
10:01
February 09, 2022

February 6, 2022 - The Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany
Season 3 - Episode 22
Epiphany 5 / ...as to why we are here...
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
58:05
February 06, 2022

January 30, 2022 - The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Season 3 - Episode 20
Epiphany 4 / This is not a romance text
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
49:19
January 30, 2022

A Man Called Jeff
Season 3 - Episode 19
I am sharing an old devotion I wrote many years ago, it still rings true.
Motivation Text: Luke 18:9 - 14
09:40
January 26, 2022

January 23, 2022 - The Third Sunday after the Epiphany
Season 3 - Episode 18
Epiphany 3 / The Bulgarian Harvesters
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
59:54
January 23, 2022

Gifts and Offerings
Season 3 - Episode 17
What motivates us to support our to local church?
08:34
January 19, 2022

January 16, 2022 - The Second Sunday after the Epiphany
Season 3 - Episode 16
Epiphany 2 / Sharing the Work of the Church
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
56:49
January 16, 2022

What We Have
Season 3 - Episode 15
Serving and being served is so difficult
We need to trust the gifts we have and those we receive from others.
Motivation Text: Acts 3:1 - 10
14:22
January 12, 2022

January 9, 2022 - The Baptism of Jesus
Season 3 - Episode 14
The Baptism of Jesus / Hope for the exiles
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:00:01
January 09, 2022

New Year, Old Thoughts
Season 3 - Episode 13
We made into 2022, now what do we do in it?
09:14
January 05, 2022

January 2, 2022 - The Second Sunday after Christmas
Season 3 - Episode 12
Christmas 2 / The Wider Promise
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2022 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
53:05
January 02, 2022

Ringing Out 2021
Season 3 - Episode 11
Singing Bowls to help you meditate on the coming year.
Happy New Year from your friends at First Congregational in McGregor, Iowa!
19:26
December 29, 2021

December 26, 2021 - First Sunday After Christmas
Season 3 - Episode 10
Christmas 1 / Carrying God's Light Forward
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
49:34
December 26, 2021

December 24, 2021 - Christmas Eve
Season 3 - Episode 9
Christmas Eve
Music by Marilyn Swanson / Soloist - Nanci Boten
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Podcast recorded, mixed and edited by William Gentry
Theme to Spring Forth composed by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:14:05
December 26, 2021

Ad-Venting - Love
Season 3 - Episode 8
Fourth Sunday of Advent the theme is Love. Love is the heart of the gospel message.
12:33
December 22, 2021

December 19, 2021 - The Fourth Sunday of Advent (Children's Christmas Program)
Season 3 - Episode 7
Advent 4 / Children's Christmas Program
Music by Marilyn Swanson and Children of First Congregational
Program director Casey Evanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
48:14
December 19, 2021

Ad-Venting - Joy
Season 3 - Episode 6
Joy requires personal sacrifice, but... it is worth the effort.
25:57
December 15, 2021

December 12, 2021 - The Third Sunday of Advent
Season 3 - Episode 5
Advent 3 / Where's the joy in this lesson?
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:07:38
December 12, 2021

Ad-Venting - Peace
Season 3 - Episode 4
Peacemaking requires accepting responsibility for our action in every conflict.
27:55
December 08, 2021

December 5, 2021 - The Second Sunday of Advent
Season 3 - Episode 3
Advent 2 / The Opportunity Paper
Music by Jacki Sloan and Theresa Thostenson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:02:15
December 05, 2021

Ad-Venting - Hope
Season 3 - Episode 2
Advent is an important season, let's not rush it.
13:37
December 01, 2021

November 28, 2021 - The First Sunday of Advent
Season 3 - Episode 1
Advent 1 / We Bring Hope
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:52
November 28, 2021

Novemer 21, 2021 - Reign of Christ
Reign of Christ / An Odd Conversation
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
54:25
November 21, 2021

November 14, 2021
Pentecost 25 / The importance of church gatherings.
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
53:43
November 14, 2021

Meditations on the Widow's Mite
A powerful lesson of faithful dependence that the affluent will never appreciate.
Motivation Text: Mark 12:38-44
19:24
November 10, 2021

November 7, 2021
Pentecost 24 / Only Faith Remains
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:04:29
November 07, 2021

We Do Not Walk Alone
It never hurts to be reminded that God is always with us.
Closing Track: Precious Lord, Take My Hand
Performed by Elizabeth Johnson
04:21
November 03, 2021

October 31, 2021
Pentecost 23 / The Two Greatest...
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
58:35
October 31, 2021

Exploring Our Communties of Faith
How much do you know about the people you worship beside?
18:37
October 27, 2021

October 24, 2021
Pentecost 22 / Eager to be blessed
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:03:44
October 24, 2021

A Social Gospel
People seem to like a simple church with plenty of social activities.
17:09
October 20, 2021

October 17, 2021
Pentecost 21 / Follow the Leader
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
56:59
October 17, 2021

Ministry and Metrics
It's okay to trust your congregation with nerdy research, they can handle it.
The Barna Group
32:34
October 13, 2021

October 10, 2021
Pentecost 20 / Getting Closer
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
58:38
October 10, 2021

October 3, 2021
Pentecost 19 / The Perfecter of Our Faith
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:26
October 03, 2021

September 26, 2021
Pentecost 18 / The work of the church
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:01:55
September 26, 2021

September 19, 2021
Pentecost 17 / Draw Near to God
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:00:16
September 19, 2021

September 12, 2021
Pentecost 16 / Words and Deeds.
Music by Jacki and Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:04:27
September 12, 2021

September 5, 2021
Pentecost 15 / Faith and Fruit.
Music by Jacki and Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654 Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
59:38
September 05, 2021

August 29, 2021
Pentecost 14 / Who are we in relation to God?
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Special Music by Tara Newman
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:08:16
August 29, 2021

August 22, 2021
Pentecost 13 / Consistent messengers
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:14:48
August 22, 2021

August 15, 2021
Pentecost 12 / Think Carefully
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Carol and Bill Grady - special music.
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:02:51
August 15, 2021

Projects vs. Projecting
What does your dream congregation look like? Can you help it reach that goal?
22:04
August 11, 2021

August 8, 2021
Pentecost 11 / Building Up
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Bob and Millie Rowe - special music.
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:11:14
August 08, 2021

A Nicer Community
The only thing we need from our communities of faith is for them to be understanding.
24:25
August 04, 2021

August 1, 2021
Pentecost 10 / Spoken in Love
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Peg Puhl - special music.
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:07:34
August 01, 2021

That Worrying Thing
There are times when our worries are simply an impediment to God's greatness.
Motivation Text: Matthew 6:25 - 34
16:51
July 28, 2021

July 25, 2021
Pentecost 9 / Pulling The Thread of Ruin.
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Larry Brummel - special music.
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:07:17
July 25, 2021

The Imaginative Church
What would a creative ministry look like in your church?
Motivation Text: John 2: 13 - 22
Closing Track: Nothing Left to Say by Kai Malcolm from the album Janky
23:48
July 21, 2021

July 18, 2021
Pentecost 8 / Who is this for anyway?
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Tara Newman - special music.
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:41
July 18, 2021

The Need For Joy
More reflections on King David celebrating before the Art of the Covenant.
09:19
July 14, 2021

July 21, 2021
Pentecost 7 / Show Some Enthusiasm, For God's Sake
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
56:15
July 11, 2021

Finding God In All Spaces
Life is noisy, but do not let that rob you of time with God.
15:24
July 07, 2021

June 27, 2021
Pentecost 5 / Saul: In Memoriam
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Special Music by Tara Newman
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:59
June 27, 2021

June 20, 2021
Pentecost 4 / Transitions
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Special Music by The Evanson Family
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:03:41
June 20, 2021

A Midweek Prayer
A prayer for those of you on the go (and those of you about to move again soon).
07:10
June 16, 2021

June 13, 2021
Pentecost 3 / Exterior vs. Interior
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:09:13
June 13, 2021

What We've Been Given
God has given us more than enough to serve this world.
Motivation Text: Proverbs 30:5 -9
14:27
June 09, 2021

June 6, 2021
Pentecost 2 / Samuel's Woes
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:07:01
June 06, 2021

Search and Rescue
What happened to the all those great ideas we had in quarantine?
It is time to find them again.
Motivation Text: James 5:19 - 20
17:16
June 02, 2021

May 30, 2021
Trinity Sunday / I Volunteer.
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:02:45
May 30, 2021

May 23, 2021
Pentecost Day / How is the Holy Spirit Moving in your life?
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Bill and Carol Grady - Vocalists
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
Congratulations to our baptismal candidates: Madison, Paul, Bo and Bella and to our graduates: Anna, Abby and Jack!
01:13:36
May 23, 2021

May 16, 2021
Seventh Sunday of Easter / Is this prayer still valid?
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Robert Rowe - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Title music, produced and edited by William Gentry © 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
Links of Interest:
https://www.barna.com/research/denominational-distribution/
http://www.philvaz.com/apologetics/a106.htm
01:13:23
May 16, 2021

Ascension
Jesus leaves the disciples in charge... for good.
Motivation Text: Luke 24: 44 - 53
13:28
May 12, 2021

May 9, 2021
Sixth Sunday of Easter / A few final remarks.
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:42
May 09, 2021

Again and Again
Want to be better at faith and discipleship? Train daily.
Motivation Text: 1 Timothy 4:7 - 8
05:25
May 05, 2021

May 2, 2021
Fifth Sunday of Easter / You're Invited
Music by Marilyn Swanson -Carol Grady & Peg Puhl - Vocalists
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:08:47
May 02, 2021

April 25, 2021
Fourth Sunday of Easter / Psalm 23
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:04:55
April 25, 2021

Words That Come Easy
Just how much do we need to speak?
Motivation Text: Matthew 9:1 - 8
04:45
April 21, 2021

April 18, 2021
Third Sunday of Easter / Reboot
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
59:17
April 18, 2021

Maundy Thursday 2021
Maundy Thursday / Loving like Jesus
Music by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:05:49
April 01, 2021

Preparing For The Empty Tomb
Pastor Gentry invites listeners to cultivate the appropriate level of disgust to appreciate the Easter promise.
Motivation Text: Hebrews 12:1-3
09:01
March 31, 2021

March 28, 2021
Palm-Passion Sunday / Of one mind.
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Vocalist Linda Luber
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:11:04
March 28, 2021

After The Fall
Pastor Gentry muses about our need to model new beginnings for all people.
Motivation text: Philippians 4.8-9
12:55
March 24, 2021

March 21, 2021
Fifth Sunday of Lent / Written on our hearts.
Music by Marilyn Swanson - Vocalist Robert Rowe
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
54:10
March 21, 2021

The Glitter That Binds Us
Finding community and identity in the mundane.
Motivation Text: Philippians 2: 5-11
10:01
March 17, 2021

March 14, 2021
Fourth Sunday of Lent / Enjoy the middle ground.
Music by Jacki Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
56:37
March 14, 2021

March 7, 2021
Third Sunday of Lent / Ground Rules For A New Relationship.
Marilyn Swanson - pianist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
55:43
March 07, 2021

Word and Sacrament
A marriage steeped in the Reformation.
Motivation Text: Philippians 3:7-11
09:49
March 03, 2021

February 28, 2021
Second Sunday of Lent / End of life extravaganza
Marilyn Swanson - pianist / William Grady - Soloist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:08:45
February 28, 2021

Among the Faithful
Pastor Gentry reflects on 500,000 Covid-19 deaths.
Motivation text: Philippians 1:27-30
07:07
February 24, 2021

February 21, 2021
First Sunday of Lent / No longer a children's story
Marilyn Swanson - pianist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
53:28
February 21, 2021

Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday / Beginning our Lenten Journey
Oh, That The Lord Would Guide My Ways by Mr. Douglas Shaffer - Organist/Director of Music at the First United Methodist Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
35:36
February 17, 2021

February 14, 2021
Transfiguration Sunday / Preparing for the Lenten Journey
Marilyn Swanson - pianist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
01:03:32
February 14, 2021

The Breath Prayer
Pastor Gentry highlights another useful spiritual practice.
Breath Prayer
Scripture References
“whoever enters into God’s rest…strive to enter into that rest” Heb 5:10-11
“Blessed are the poor in spirit" Mat 5:3
“God sent the spirit of His Son into our hearts Gal 4:6
“O God…for you my body yearns; for you my soul thirsts” Ps 63:2
“our soul waits for the Lord” Ps 33:20
“better a handful of quietness” Ecc 4:6
“It is good to hope in silence for the saving help of the Lord.” Lam 325-26
“Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self control” Gal 6:22-23
“My soul rests in God alone” Ps 62:2
“be still before the Lord; wait for God.” Ps 37:7
“the Spirit of God dwells in you” 1 Cor 3:16
“the Lord is in his holy temple; silence before him” Hab 2:20
“We do not know how to pray … but the Spirit itself intercedes.” Rom 8:26
“I have stilled my soul” Ps 131:2
“be still and know that I am God.” Ps 46:11
“by waiting and calm you shall be saved; in quiet and trust your strength lies” Is 30:15
“think of what is above, not what is on earth” Col 3:2
“for my thoughts are not your thoughts” Is 55:8
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want" Ps. 23:1
"...do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God" Micah 6:8
"perfect love casts out fear" 1 John 4:18
"We love because he first loved us" 1 John 4:19
"Your people shall be my people, and your God my God." Ruth 1:16
"Choose life, that you and your offspring may live" Dt. 30:19
04:43
February 10, 2021

February 7, 2021
The Fifth Sunday After Epiphany / Removing our infirmities
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
38:25
February 07, 2021

January 31, 2021
The Fourth Sunday After Epiphany / Fighting possession
Marilyn Swanson - pianist
"Be Thou My Vision" performed by Linda Luber
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
28:31
January 31, 2021

Intentions
What intentions do we have, when we talk to God?
Motivation Text: Luke 18:9 - 14
18:43
January 27, 2021

January 24, 2021
The Third Sunday After Epiphany / Jonah: He's just like us.
Piano music performed by Marilyn Swanson
"Amazing Grace" performed by Leigh Vorwald and Jeff Gaunitz
"I love to tell the story" performed by Linda Luber
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
Additional music, produced and edited by William Gentry
© 2021 First Congregational Church of McGregor, Iowa
34:19
January 24, 2021

Two Hemispheres
Another meditation on prayer.
Motivation Text: Galatians 5:15 - 26
05:30
January 20, 2021

January 17, 2021
The Second Sunday After Epiphany / When God Calls....
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
44:32
January 17, 2021

Return to Formula
A meditation on loving neighbor as self.
Motivation text: Luke 10:25 - 29
27:32
January 13, 2021

January 10, 2021
The Baptism of Jesus / Gateway Sacrament
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
53:46
January 10, 2021

Embracing Epiphany
Today is the feast of Epiphany, Pastor Gentry reminds us to always look for the incarnate God in the everyday.
05:24
January 06, 2021

January 3, 2021
Second Sunday after Christmas-Epiphany / A New Path
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Bill and Carol Grady - Vocalists
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
56:44
January 03, 2021

December 27, 2020
First Sunday after Christmas / Heirs
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Robert Rowe - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
44:29
December 27, 2020

December 20, 2020
The 4th Sunday of Advent / Highly Favored.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
01:00:12
December 20, 2020

December 13, 2020
The 3rd Sunday of Advent / Who are you?
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Peggy Puhl and Carol Grady - Vocalists
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
48:54
December 13, 2020

December 6, 2020
The 2nd Sunday of Advent / Time for self-reflection
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
01:02:47
December 06, 2020

November 29, 2020
The 1st Sunday of Advent / A Distant God...
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
55:33
November 29, 2020

Unusual Gratitude
Are you ready to embrace that odd Thanksgiving holiday you are planning?
08:43
November 25, 2020

November 22, 2020
Christ the King Sunday Pentecost 25 / Who are the least of these?
This is a live recording from our November 22nd worship service.
44:34
November 22, 2020

November 15, 2020
The 24th Sunday of Pentecost / Letting God be God.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Danielle Niehaus - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
51:56
November 15, 2020

Our Interior Shapes Our Exterior
Pastor Gentry called on people of faith make a solid investment in healing our communities.
Motivation text: Mark 7:14 - 23
*Correction: The film is called The Social Dilemma and it features former Google employee Tristan Harris.
21:20
November 11, 2020

November 8, 2020
The 23rd Sunday of Pentecost / Lifelong work.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Robert Rowe - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
49:36
November 08, 2020

November 1, 2020
The 22nd Sunday of Pentecost / The most important label we wear.
This is a live recording from our November 1st worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Peggy Puhl - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
57:12
November 01, 2020

In Progress
Jesus is still waiting on us to find unity.
Motivation Text: John 17:10 - 26
32:17
October 28, 2020

October 25, 2020
The 21st Sunday of Pentecost / Paul proclaims without deceit.
This is a live recording from our October 25th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
51:43
October 25, 2020

October 18, 2020
The 20th Sunday of Pentecost / Imitation of Christ.
This is a live recording from our October 18th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
44:01
October 18, 2020

Pulled From The Fire
Jude offers us advice on how to deal with contrary opinions.
Motivation Text: Jude 1:17 - 23
26:56
October 14, 2020

October 11, 2020
The 19th Sunday of Pentecost / The Goal of Christian Community.
This is a live recording from our October 11th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and William Grady - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
45:20
October 11, 2020

On Second Thought....
Pastor Gentry muses on the healing of the Syrian commander Naaman.
Motivation Text: 2 Kings 5:1 - 19
33:24
October 07, 2020

October 4, 2020
The 18th Sunday of Pentecost / Forgetting what lies behind.
This is a live recording from our October 4th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Robert Rowe - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
44:57
October 04, 2020

Unity: At What Cost?
Pastor Gentry ponders how a disrupted year has skewed our sense of community. Motivation text: 1 Kings 3:16 - 28
20:23
September 30, 2020

Sunday 27, 2020
The 17th Sunday of Pentecost / Two sons.
This is a live recording from our September 27th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
52:46
September 27, 2020

When Seasons Collide
Pastor Gentry explores the seasons of life and how to handle them gracefully.
Motivation Text: Ecclesiastes 3:1 - 8
19:50
September 23, 2020

September 20, 2020
The 16th Sunday of Pentecost / Jonah's jealousy.
FB Video Link
This is a live recording from our September 20th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist and Linda Luber - Vocalist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
49:53
September 20, 2020

A Tip From King David
The psalms of King David are a source of comfort. Motivation text: Ps. 102:18 - 28
18:22
September 16, 2020

September 13, 2020
The 15th Sunday of Pentecost / Forgiveness: Do it for selfish reasons
FB Video Link
This is a live recording from our September 13th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
59:31
September 13, 2020

The Shared Burden
Pastor Gentry encourages the faithful to challenge their communities of faith to teach them how to practice faith in action.
Motivation Text: Galatians 6:1 - 10
18:48
September 09, 2020

September 6, 2020
The 14th Sunday of Pentecost / The debt we owe to our neighbor
FB Video Link
This is a live recording from our September 6th worship service.
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
56:13
September 06, 2020

Adaptive Evangelism
Pastor Gentry invites listeners to consider adopting a new online persona.
Motivation text: 1 Corinthians 9:19 - 23
31:09
September 02, 2020

August 30, 2020
The 13th Sunday of Pentecost / In so far as it depends on us....
This is a live recording from our August 30th worship service.
FB Video Link
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
01:01:23
August 30, 2020

Sacred Time - Sacred Space
Pastor Gentry continues to reflect on the importance of daily devotion.
28:32
August 26, 2020

August 23, 2020
The 12th Sunday of Pentecost / St. Paul's earnest appeal.
This is a live recording from our August 23rd worship service.
FB Video Link
Music performed by Marilyn Swanson - Organist
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
57:24
August 23, 2020

Rediscovering wisdom
Pastor Gentry encourages us to dust off our shelves to reconnect with our lost treasures of spiritual knowledge.
18:39
August 19, 2020

August 16, 2020
The 11th Sunday of Pentecost / Crumbs of Mercy
This is a live recording from our August 16th worship service.
FB Video Link
Music performed by Jacki & Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
49:19
August 16, 2020

Public Ministry in a Pandemic
Pastor Gentry ponders the humility of face coverings.
14:46
August 12, 2020

August 9, 2020
The 10th Sunday of Pentecost / Have you ever had that sinking feeling?
This is a live recording from our August 9th worship service.
FB Video Link
Music performed by Jacki & Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
01:00:02
August 09, 2020

A Place at the Table
Pastor Gentry explores ways to set up a home altar or sacred space in anticipation of participating in remote Holy Communion.
19:47
August 05, 2020

August 2, 2020
The 9th Sunday of Pentecost / You give them something to eat.
This is a live recording from our August 2nd worship service.
Video Link for FB
Music performed by Jacki & Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
58:35
August 02, 2020

The Evolution of a Congregation
Pastor Gentry reflects on changes to worship, both locally and remote.
12:11
July 29, 2020

July 26, 2020
The 8th Sunday of Pentecost / What is the Realm of God like....
This is a live recording from our July 26th worship service.
Video Link for FB
Music performed by Jacki & Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
49:51
July 26, 2020

July 19, 2020
The Seventh Sunday of Pentecost / Wheat and Weeds
This is a live recording from our July 19th worship service.
Video Link for FB
Music performed by Jacki & Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
54:43
July 19, 2020

July 12, 2020
The Sixth Sunday of Pentecost / God, is an extravagant farmer.
This is a live recording from our July 12th worship service.
Video Link for FB
Music performed by Jacki & Mike Sloan
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
52:47
July 12, 2020

July 5, 2020
Jesus and the helping harness.
This is a live recording from our July 5th worship service, back in our church space!
Here is a link to the video feed.
Today's music is performed by Leigh Vorwald & Jeff Gaunitz.
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
37:55
July 05, 2020

June 7, 2020 A joint worship for Holy Trinity Sunday
Two pastors celebrate the Holy Spirit
44:16
June 07, 2020

FCC'S Confirmation worship service
Audio highlights from the live confirmation day worship service held at Turner Park in McGregor, Iowa on May 31. 2020.
25:47
June 01, 2020

A Spring Forth Update
Musings by Pastor Gentry as we close out the month of May
Video Link
13:11
May 29, 2020

April 19, 2020
Doubting Thomas.
Video Link
Please remember to support the church with your offering, follow this link to learn more.
15:25
April 19, 2020

FCC McGregor's 2020 Easter Sunday Worship Podcast
Happy Easter friends and members of First Congregational Church of McGregor.
This podcast special is aimed at helping you get through the isolation blahs with word and song!
Also for those of you wishing to get a bit of video time with your podcast, two video links are available for your worship pleasure.
Pastor Gentry's video message can be viewed here.
This podcast features organ music by Mr. Douglas Shaffer - Organist/Director of Music at the First United Methodist Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa
In addition, we have a special music contribution from Mrs. Dawn Colsch - doing a rendition of "Blessings" by Laura Story you can see Dawn in action here.
May your Easter be a happy one, thank you for listening and viewing.
Please remember to send your gift to support the ongoing ministry efforts of FCC McGregor!
Christ is Risen!
He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia!
Music used in this episode under permission of CCLI #2764654
40:24
April 12, 2020