Pray through Lent with the 2026 Appalachian Deanery Lenten Devotional
On Ash Wednesday, the Rev. Nick Lannon preaches a sermon on Matthew 6, in which Jesus tells his disciples not to practice their piety before men. By having ashes imposed on our heads, we are not proclaiming our piety, but our need.
The Rev. Nick Lannon preaches a sermon on Matthew 17, in which Jesus is transfigured and singled out as God's beloved son. There is no other way in which or name by which sinners can be saved. It is all, and only, about Christ.
Michael Neal continues his study of Numbers with a look at a number of biblical "echoes" surrounding the themes of garden and desert, especially prevalent as Israel wanders in the wilderness.
The Rev. Nick Lannon continues his class on Joshua. The spies escape from Jericho with Rahab's help and make their report to Joshua (v15-24), in light of which the people begin preparations to cross the Jordan River (3:1-4).
At the 2026 Budget Presentation meeting, Pastor Nick gave a rector’s perspective of the budget for 2026, Treasurer John Fidler gave his report, and the two of them answered parishioner questions.
The Rev. Nick Lannon preaches a sermon on Matthew 5, in which Jesus calls Christians to be salt and light to the world. He also promises to fulfill the law; his finished work is the only means and engine by which righteousness is possible.
The Rev. Nick Lannon continues his class on Joshua. Spies are sent to Jericho and go to Rahab's house (2:1-2). The King of Jericho demands that Rahab produce the spies and she lies in response (2:3-7). Finally, Rahab confesses her faith in Yahweh and asks the spies to spare her family (2:8-14).
The Rev. Nick Lannon preaches a sermon on Micah 6 (in which the people are commanded to be righteous), and Matthew 5 (in what Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount). Our right and good striving to uphold the law will, all the more, show us our need for our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Michael Neal continues his class on Numbers with a discussion of wilderness as a state of being and Egypt as a metaphorical death with Pharoah as its dragon king from whom Yahweh will rescue his people.
The Rev. Nick Lannon continues his class on Joshua. God commands Joshua to be obedient (1:8-9), after which Joshua officially takes command of the army (1:10-15). Then, the people pledge their faithfulness to their new leader (1:16-18) before Joshua takes his first step as leader: sending two spies in to Jericho (2:1-2).
