10/2/22 :: Mustard Seed Faith
This sermon explores the concept of faith, not as a commodity, but as a relationship. It emphasizes that faith is about trust rather than certainty, and that it is not just about us seeking God, but God meeting us on our journey. The sermon also highlights the idea of 'mustard seed faith' - that even a small amount of faith can grow into something significant.
10/2/22 :: Sunday Prayers
This sermon is a series of prayers for peace, unity, salvation, the Church, the world, and the local community. It includes prayers for the environment, the vulnerable, the oppressed, and the dying. The sermon also acknowledges the ongoing struggles in Ukraine and the personal loss of the Rector.
9/6/22 :: Little Before God
In this sermon, Kevin reflects on the Magnificat and the importance of humility before God. He uses the example of Hyacinth Bucket from the television series 'Keeping up Appearances' to illustrate the futility of social climbing and the importance of acknowledging that we have no claim on God's love. He emphasizes that we must become 'little' before God, acknowledging that everything we have is a gift, and this attitude should extend to our interactions with others, particularly the marginalized and oppressed.
8/28/22 :: God's Patient Work
This sermon reflects on the image of a potter at work, shaping and reshaping clay, as a symbol of God's patient work in our lives. It explores the themes of God's commitment to humanity, our need to respond to God, and the challenge of not being possessed by our possessions. The sermon concludes with a call to live out our baptismal call to discipleship.
12/26/21 :: Community and Reconciliation
The sermon reflects on the year 2020, marked by social distancing and isolation, and emphasizes the importance of community and reconciliation. It draws on the teachings of the Incarnation, the Sermon on the Mount, and the letters of the New Testament to highlight the interconnectedness of our relationships with God and our neighbors. The sermon concludes with a call to value each other, in all our differences, as ones made in the image of God.
8/22/21 :: Liberation and Redemption
Kevin explores the story of the Israelites' slavery in Egypt and their subsequent liberation, as told in the Book of Exodus. He highlights the central role of Moses as an instrument of God and draws parallels between the Jewish people's historical suffering and their enduring faith. The sermon encourages reflection on God's presence in times of hardship and the importance of faith and obedience in overcoming adversity.
7/18/21 :: Farewell and Gratitude
In his retirement speech, Kevin expresses heartfelt thanks for the support received over his 43-year ministry. He reflects on the diversity and unity within the Church of Ireland, his journey through different parishes, and the significance of ending his ministry in Howth. He acknowledges the contributions of various individuals and the importance of family, ending his speech with a hopeful look towards the future.
6/20/21 :: Farewell to Howth
Kevin reflects on the resilience of faith through personal experiences and historical challenges faced by the Church of Ireland. He recounts his visit to Budapest and the emotional service at Kalvin Ter Presbyterian Church. The sermon emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of adversity, drawing parallels between the early Church's endurance and the parish's recent efforts during the pandemic and church restoration.