August 23, 2026: BEYOND: Love Surpassing
Ephesians 3: 14-21

Rev. Dr. Jonathan Hall, preaching

Linda Smith, Becky Clark, and Pastor Leslie served as delegates during our 2026 General Assembly, held in July. The theme scripture for this Assembly was Ephesians 3:14 -21. This was the second General Assembly held online – the first was during COVID and was held on Zoom. This was the first General Assembly held on a new platform, and the first in which every Disciples congregation in the United States and Canada had at least three delegates. During the opening worship, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Hall delivered a powerful message that reminded us that God strengthens us in the fog, that love cannot exist without truth, and that Christ calls us to love the people right in front of us. Linda, Becky, and I thought you would want to hear this powerful message as well, so it will be our sermon on Sunday. A little heads up – the sermon is longer than we are usually accustomed to, and it is worth every minute.

Rev. Dr. Jonathan Hall
First Christian Church of North Hollywood

Jonathan B. Hall is the Senior Pastor of First Christian Church of North Hollywood in Los Angeles, California. He is co-author of the book, Dear Son: Raising Faithful, Just and Compassionate Men. Jonathan and his wife, Annie, have two young boys, Malachi and Zion. He has a B.A. from Transylvania University, an M.Div. from Eden Theological Seminary, Certification from Bossey Ecumenical Institute, and a D.Min. from Claremont School of Theology.

The way we worship is the way we live.

Worship is the work of the people, bringing together our fullest selves in a communal act of love and gratitude.  Each voice is important; each person is valued as the Spirit draws out our authentic gifts and talents, shared in the ever-widening circle of God’s people.  We hope you’ll join us this week as we gather to worship the God of extravagant welcome.