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Sermon Scripture for April 6, 2025

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Will be updated when
becomes available

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Pastor Jim Dougans

Easter: A Living Hope

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Dear Congregation,

 

As spring bursts forth with new life, painting our world in vibrant colors and renewal, we are reminded of the most profound renewal in human history—the resurrection of Jesus Christ  Easter is more than a holiday; it is the cornerstone of our faith, a moment that

transforms despair into hope, death into life, and darkness into eternal light.

 

The resurrection is not simply a historical event we commemorate, but a living reality that continues to reshape our understanding of life. When Jesus emerged from the tomb, He conquered not just physical death, but the spiritual death that separates us from God. His resurrection is a powerful declaration that love is stronger than hatred, hope more enduring than

suffering, and life triumphant over death.

 

Consider the disciples on that first Easter morning. They were broken,

defeated, and lost. Their hopes had been crucified alongside Jesus, and their future seemed to have died with Him. Yet, everything changed when they encountered the risen Christ (John 20:18-19). Their fear transformed into courage, their grief into joy, their doubt into unwavering faith. This is the same transformative power available to each of us today.

 

The resurrection invites us to see beyond our current circumstances. Just as Jesus was raised, we too can experience renewal in our lives. Are there areas of your life that feel dead— relationships, dreams, spiritual passion? Easter reminds us that God specializes in bringing life to what seems hopeless. No situation is too broken, no heart too wounded for God's restorative power.

 

This Easter, I challenge each of us to embrace the living hope of the resurrection. Let it be more than a theological concept—make it a daily reality. Allow the same power that raised Christ to raise your spirit, renew your purpose, and resurrect your faith.

 

Our worship services during Holy Week will walk us through Christ's journey—from the solemnity of Maundy Thursday to the incredible celebration of Easter Sunday. I invite you to commemorate, reflect, and rejoice in the most significant event in human history.

 

 

Christ is risen!

 He is risen indeed!

 

 Blessings and hope,

Pastor Jim

A Sermon Series

Resurrection Hope: Exploring the Power of New Life

A Three-Sunday Sermon Series for April 2025

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Over the years, I have preached only a few sermon series. For the most part, I have followed the lectionary, that three-year cycle of Old and New Testament passages. However, I so enjoyed the March sermon series on women in the Bible that for April I am preaching three sermons on resurrection. Let me know what you think. Do you like a sermon series?

 

5th Sunday in Lent

"Resurrection Hope for a Broken World" April 6, 2025

Scripture Passages: Psalm 148, Revelation 21:1-6

Key Message: Resurrection hope is not passive waiting but active participation in God's redemptive work.

 

Palm Sunday

"Living in Resurrection Power"

April 13, 2025

Scripture Passages: Jeremiah 20:7-13, Romans 6:1b-11

Key Message: Resurrection is an ongoing process of renewal, not a one-time event.

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Easter Sunday

"The Reality of Resurrection" April 20, 2025

Scripture Passages: Isaiah 65:17-25, John 20:1-18

Key Message: Resurrection is not just a historical event, but a present reality that offers hope and transformation.

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Invitation to Scotland: Walk in the Footsteps of John Knox
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Jennifer and I are going to Scotland this year. We aren’t going in July. That trip has been canceled. Instead, we will go with folks from around the country. The tour is September 8-17, 2025. Perhaps you wanted to go, but July wasn’t a good time. This trip is also three days longer, for about the same price. For more information and to register, visit: https://www.eo.travelwithus.com/tours/st25090825r#eotours.

 

You will find photos and a listing of amenities such as first-class hotels and deluxe motor coaches.

Most importantly, this trip promises a journey to the rugged landscapes of Scotland, where we will immerse

ourselves in the powerful legacy of the Scottish Reformation. We will follow the path of John Knox, the

fiery preacher who forever changed Scotland's religious and political landscape in the 16th century.

Experience Scotland's Reformation Heritage, Explore Edinburgh's Royal Mile, where Knox delivered thunderous sermons at St. Giles' Cathedral that ech- oed through the cobblestone streets. Stand in the pulpit from which Knox challenged monarchs and moved a nation toward Protestant reform.

 

Visit historic Perth, where Knox's inflammatory sermon against "idolatry" in 1559 sparked a religious revo- lution that swept across Scotland. Walk through the ancient stone archways of St. John's Kirk, where those fateful words were spoken.

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A Journey Through Time and Faith

  • Discover Knox's House in Edinburgh's Old Town, preserved as a testament to this remarkable reformer's life.

  • Explore the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, where the early seeds of the Scottish Reformation were planted.

  • Visit Stirling Castle, where Knox served as chaplain to young King James VI.

 

Beyond the Reformation

The tour also promises we'll experience Scotland's breathtaking landscapes - misty glens, ancient castles

perched on dramatic cliffs, and serene lochs reflecting the ever-changing sky. Enjoy warm Scottish hospital- ity in charming villages and historic towns that witnessed this pivotal chapter in history.

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This journey offers more than historical exploration - it provides insight into how one man's conviction re- shaped a nation's spiritual identity, forever changing Scotland's relationship with power, religion, and inde- pendence.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, theology scholar, or simply seeking a meaningful travel experience, walking in John Knox's footsteps through Scotland promises an unforgettable journey through faith, cour- age, and the enduring Scottish spirit.

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Lectionary Reading for April

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April 6

      Isaiah 43:16-21 and Psalm 126

      Philippians 3:4b-14

      John 12:1-8

 

April 13

      Luke 19:28-40 and Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

      Isaiah 50:4-9a and Psalm 31:9-16 and Philippians 2:5-11

      Luke 23:1-49

 

April 20

      Acts 10:34-43 and Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

      1 Corinthians 15:19-26

      John 20:1-18

 

April 27

      Acts 5:27-32 and Psalm 150

      Revelation

      Luke 13:1-9

The Session will meet Monday, April 28, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

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Fellowship is the 3rd Sunday of the Month and we have placed a new sign up sheet in the fellowship hall. Please sign up come and enjoy some time with friends and family.

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Practice will be every Wednesday @ 7 p.m.

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6:15 A.M. at Limestone Landing.

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Come and join us for our Maundy/Thursday Potluck and Communion Service on April 17, 2025 @ 5:30 P.M.

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Sunday, April 20, 2025 @ 9 A.M.
come and join in for a wonderful breakfast and great conversation.

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 10:45 a.m.

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PRAYER LIST

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OUR MEMBERS

January

Pastor Jim Dougans Devin Claypool Regina Doyle Otis Doyle

Kate Gausmann-Krieg Kim Savage

Rev. Jane Shoemaker


February
Kenny Ross

March

Mary Purdon Lori Howe Karen Wood Pat Webb Jerry Hearn

Mike Franklin Debbie Ross Judy Chumbler

Licking Valley Senior Center

Carol Heflin             Larry Kenny                Joyce Truesdell      Sheila Murphy

Penny Sellers          Analee Gilbert             Carol Brunell          Phyllis Rice

Terry Reed              Betty Clark                   Daryl Bussell          Larry Risdon

Wilma Day              Donna Curtis                Judy Hunter           Paulette Sauer

Tracy Gilbert           Becky Spencer             Alex Holt                Chase Holt

Jane Truesdell        Adrienne Truesdell

​Maysville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

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All Residents

Patricia Glynn         Zora Meirs                     Don Tucker           Joanne Clinger

Anita Wilson          Judith Greene                Michael Richey      Terry Reed

George Burns Sr.    Rob Skidmore                Carl Berry             Robin Brunette                             Kenneth Werline   Alice Jones                     Maureen Overly    Melody Arnold                                     Liz Berry                Barbara Jefferson          Janie                      Tina Elie

Pearl Shelton          Gwenny                        Ethel Perkins          Juanita Merrill  

Charles Sweet        Mildred Sweringen        Winifred Commodore     Kenny Allen Jr.

 

                                                

Groups

CASA Children

Limestone Ministerial Assoc. and CCMA Our military

People of Ukraine, Russia, & Middle East Maysville Police Department Officers

UK Hospital and Staff

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Limestone Chorale Concert

Come and enjoy the Limestone Chorale Concert at the 1st Presbyterian Church on Sunday, April 13, 2025 at 4:00 P.M.

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CLICK TO PUZZLE PRINT

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Click on Calendar to Print

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What happens if I am in the hospital?

It is important to note that due to HIPPA laws, hospitals will not inform the church of your hospitalization or share any relevant details. We rely on you to let us know when you or a loved one is hospitalized. Know that we will always respect your desire for privacy and confidentiality. Perhaps you want Pastor Jim to know of your hospitalization but do not want to appear on the prayer list--that's okay!  Others might prefer to have their hospitalization noted in the Sunday bulletin, inviting the prayers of the congregation. Please do not hesitate to inform the office (606.564.3639) of your wishes, whatever they might be. As the body of Christ, we rejoice in the opportunity to care for one another.

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Carl & Liz Berry

Maysville Nursing & Rehab

620 Parker Rd

Maysville, KY 41056

Pat Webb
1455 Kenton Pointe Way
Maysville, KY 41056

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If you would like a copy of the church's wedding policy please

email the office at firstpres@maysvilleky.net or click on

wedding button on the left to take you directly to email.

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