From a Tchaikovsky prelude to a call to worship inspired by Willie Nelson lyrics, from a Carl Dennis poem to a Navajo prayer, and from a Josh Ritter song to an old hymn (“God’s Eye Is on the Sparrow”, last week’s Family Sunday focused on faithfulness, especially being faithful in our relationships with God and with one another….
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“I hope you are ready to be loved—for who you are and for whom you will become,” said Rev. Dr. James Gertmenian, addressing members and friends of Edina Morningside Church. The minister emeritus of Plymouth Congregational Church praised Rev. Oby Ballinger’s great gifts for ministry during his message, “Promise and Peril,” at Pastor Oby’s installation service on Sunday, Oct. 9….
Pastor Oby Ballinger kicks off his new role as senior pastor at Edina Morningside Community Church on Rally Day, Sunday, September 11. “Our congregation is thrilled to officially welcome Pastor Oby on Rally Day,” says Sonja Martens, EMC moderator, “and we know he can’t wait to get started, serving our congregation and the greater…
Members gathered to celebrate all that Pastor Howard has meant to EMC during his interim calling—from his top-notch administrative skills and attentive leadership to his thoughtful sermons and good humor. Oh, how blessed we have been—we’ll miss you!
Following a Wednesday-evening worship service, led by Reverend Obadiah Ballinger, EMC’s congregation unanimously selected Pastor “Oby” to become our new pastor. “Our search committee members, and now our congregation members, are thrilled that Oby has accepted our call to become our new pastor,” says Doug Toth, chair of the pastoral search committee. “He is personable, kind, thoughtful…
As a rainstorm thundered outside (like a simile for gun violence), more than 100 people gathered to find a place of light and love inside EMC. “Today, as we stand for the victims of Orlando, we also stand for humanity—against any kind of bigotry,” said Memoona Ghani, a representative of the Islamic Resource Group, who voiced her appreciation…
EMC plans to host a Commemorative Service for Peace and Healing, Wednesday, June 22, at 7 p.m., in collaboration with representatives of diverse communities. Readings will reflect on violence affecting those who are marginalized and those who have been killed by senseless murders; and expressions of concerns and prayers will be shared for the LGBTQ and Muslim communities….
Everyone—members, friends and newcomers—may join us for any and all services this week: Maundy Thursday, 7 pm: We’ll begin with the Lord’s Supper and move into a Tenebrae service. Through scripture readings, hymns, silence, choral and instrumental music, and the darkening of the sanctuary, we remember Jesus’ betrayal, arrest, trial and death. EMC practices open communion, and we welcome…
Today’s choir’s anthem, “All We Like Sheep,” sounded even more lovely, thanks to gorgeous new stoles created by costume designer and member Jane Williams. She created the stoles using upcycled white fabric and a multicolored print already featured in the church’s chancel. In addition, she took measurements of each choir member, customizing each stole to the singer. Prior to…