In this opening message of our Voices of Advent series, Pastor Mark lifts up the powerful presence of John the Baptist—calling us to prepare not with outward busyness, but with inner honesty and hope. This Advent, we begin in the wilderness, where truth, repentance, and the voice of disruption make way for Christ’s coming. “It’s okay not to be okay” becomes both a comfort and a challenge.
This week’s guide helps you reflect on John the Baptist’s role in Advent and in your own life. Explore questions around spiritual readiness, prophetic truth, and deep hope. Perfect for individuals, families, or small groups journeying through this sacred season together.
In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores Jeremiah 29’s iconic promise— “I know the plans I have for you…”—within the challenging context of exile. What does it mean to trust God’s long-term vision, even when we may not see its fulfillment ourselves? This powerful message calls us to active, rooted hope and faithful community living.
Dig deeper into Jeremiah 29 and Pastor Mark’s message with this week’s discussion guide. Explore how we live in hope, trust God’s timing, and build faithful community even in seasons of uncertainty.
In this thought-provoking sermon on Isaiah 9, Pastor Mark Hanna explores how ancient words of hope continue to shape our evolving understanding of God. With humor, warmth, and depth, he reflects on metaphor, imagination, and how we find light in the darkness. A meaningful message for anyone navigating faith in uncertain times.
Dive deeper into Pastor Mark’s sermon with a discussion guide exploring Isaiah 9, the metaphors we use for God, and what it means to hold hope in the face of uncertainty. Perfect for personal reflection or group study.
In this reflection on 1 Kings, Pastor Mark explores the building of Solomon’s Temple—not just as a physical structure, but as a metaphor for transformation, trust, and the deep truth that God ultimately desires to dwell within us, not in walls. A timely message for a church—and world—under construction.
This week’s sermon discussion guide invites you to reflect on sacred space, personal transformation, and God’s presence in the everyday. Whether in a group or on your own, these questions will deepen your engagement with Solomon’s story—and your own.
In this warm and thoughtful sermon, Pastor Mark draws on the story of David’s anointing in 1 Samuel 16 and a car ride with the family dog to explore how God invites us to trust even when we’re unsure. Full of humor, insight, and grace, this message reminds us that God sees the heart and that each of us has a part to play in the story of love and justice.
This companion guide to Pastor Mark’s sermon offers thoughtful, reflective questions for small groups or personal meditation. Explore themes of calling, trust, and surprise through the lens of 1 Samuel 16, and discover how God might be inviting you to step into your unique role.
Roland Park Presbyterian Church is a local community of faith that was founded in 1901. RPPC is an inclusive and welcoming member congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and More Light Presbyterians as well as an Earth Care and Matthew 25 Congregation that is pursuing justice, practicing hospitality and engaging curious faith. RPPC worships together each Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
Presbyterian Church (USA) and More Light Presbyterians
