Symbols of worship, courage, service, and spiritual growth reflected the Ascension Sunday message, “Living and Leading Courageously.”
Living and Leading Courageously
Ascension Sunday — Acts 7:55–60 • 1 Peter 2:2–10
Opening Introduction
On Ascension Sunday, Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church reflected on what it means to become “living stones” built on Christ the Cornerstone. Through scripture, worship, music, prayer, and symbolic worship elements, the congregation was reminded that God continues shaping ordinary lives for His kingdom.
Rev. Emily Freeman Penfield’s message, “Living and Leading Courageously,” connected Stephen’s faithful witness in Acts 7 with Peter’s teaching in 1 Peter 2, encouraging believers to live courageously, serve faithfully, and help build others up in faith.
Watch the Sermon
Rev. Emily Freeman Penfield’s Ascension Sunday message, “Living and Leading Courageously,” reflects on Christ the Cornerstone, Stephen’s courageous witness, and the call for believers to become living stones shaped by God’s grace and built together for His kingdom.
Watch the Sermon: Lead Courageously You Tube Link
Scripture References
- Acts 7:55–60
- 1 Peter 2:2–10
- Isaiah 28:16
- Psalm 118:22
Worship Theme
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Christ the Cornerstone holds His church together in faith and purpose.
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Living Stones Built on Christ the Cornerstone
Peter reminds believers that Christ is the Cornerstone and that followers of Jesus are “living stones” being built together into a spiritual house. Stephen’s courageous witness shows what it means to remain faithful even in suffering and rejection.
This service reflected themes of:
- Courageous faith
- Spiritual growth
- Worship and witness
- Service and discipleship
- Christ reigning in glory
- Building God’s kingdom together
Worship Table Reflection
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Living stones shaped by grace and built together through Christ.
The worship table visually reflected the message of the day through symbols connected to worship, discipleship, and courageous faith.
Cross and Flame
A reminder of Christ’s presence and the Spirit-led calling of the church.
Wooden Figure with Stones
The figure lifting hands in praise surrounded by stones symbolized believers becoming living stones shaped by God’s grace.
Bowl and Pitcher
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Living stones are called to serve with humility and love.
A symbol of humble service and faithful discipleship.
Flowers and Paraments
Signs of worship, beauty, and the gathered church celebrating the risen and reigning Christ.
Music and Worship Arts
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Worship through music helped lead the congregation in praise and reflection on Ascension Sunday.
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Prelude
“Mansion Over the Hilltop”
Hymns
- Crown Him with Many Crowns
- In the Garden
- Take Up Thy Cross
- Blest Be the Tie that Binds
Choir Anthem
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The choir anthem proclaimed the glory of the risen and reigning Christ.
“Thine is the Glory”
Music Reflection
Crown Him with Many Crowns
This Ascension Sunday hymn reminds the church that Christ reigns in glory as King of kings and Lord of lords. As Stephen looked into heaven and saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God, believers continue worshiping the risen and reigning Christ who strengthens His people to live courageously in faith.
Watch the Hymn: Crown Him With Many Crowns
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Worship Leadership
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The light of Christ entered as worship began on Ascension Sunday.
Worship Leaders
- Rev. Emily Freeman Penfield
- Duncan Vinson, Director of Music
- Jonah, Liturgist
- Elias, Acolyte
- Choir and Musicians
- Ushers and Worship Volunteers
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Worship and Discipleship Reflection
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Rev. Emily Freeman Penfield reflected on what it means to become living stones built on Christ the Cornerstone.
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Worship is more than gathering in a sanctuary. Worship shapes and forms believers into living stones for God’s kingdom. Through scripture, prayer, music, service, and faithful witness, God continues polishing lives and building His church.
Stephen’s witness reminds us that courageous faith does not grow overnight. God shapes His people over time through worship, discipleship, service, and obedience.
Reflect and Pray
- Where is God still shaping my life?
- Am I helping build others up in faith?
- How can I live courageously for Christ this week?
- What gifts can I use to strengthen God’s kingdom?
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Continue the Journey
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Closing Invitation
God is still polishing lives, building His kingdom, and shaping living stones through worship, study, prayer, service, and daily faith.
Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church
Love Boldly. Serve Joyfully. Lead Courageously.A Beacon of Light in Pleasant Grove and western Birmingham.
Learn more at PGUM.org
