Westlake Hills Presbyterian

APTS intern Rachel Finken uses the teachings of Gustavo Gutierrez, Peruvian priest and theologian, to study Jesus’s story of the goats and the sheep and how it challenges us to a new vision of Christ’s love at work in the world.

William Seymour had a way of going about “Church" that was completely unique in his time. In the early 1900s, the very segregated church kept to themselves. Through his understanding of the Holy Spirit, William created a church movement that still lives on to this day. What was his understanding? That the church dwells in the people of Christ and not in buildings. In Pastor Stephen's sermon we div...

Whether fleeing persecution or prosecution, thousands of people fled to the deserts of Egypt in the 3th through 5th centuries to seek something bigger, maybe smaller, maybe safer, or maybe riskier. People heard of the “word from God” that the monks were sharing with those who came, and so they went, desperate for guidance, respite, and wisdom. It was the ancient desert mothers and fathers they wen...

Pastor Kevin delves into the profound teachings of Gregory of Nyssa on eternal life. Discover how the ancient wisdom of our revered Church Fathers (and Mothers) can illuminate our modern spiritual journey as we explore Gregory and his sister Macrina’s insights on the soul’s endless pursuit of divine love and the transformative power of faith.

In today's sermon we will listen for the voice of an illiterate itinerant preacher named Sojourner Truth. Truth was born in 1797, married and birthed 5 children all while a slave. We will learn of her amazing and courageous life and how she was able to put on the clothes of Christ speaking truth in love.

Facing a big decision? You might be standing on a threshold moment! Stacy’s sermon explores how to recognize these opportunities and embrace the new adventures God has for you, acknowledging St. Francis of Assisi as a guide.

Young people are a vital part of our church family, but are their voices being heard? This week, we explore how to create a space where children and young adults feel welcome to participate in worship. Jesus himself said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them." Emily Wright highlights Rodger Nishioka in this week's installment of Voices of the Wilderness.

This summer, we're exploring inspiring voices who found faith in challenging times. Our first spotlight is Evelyn Underhill, a scholar who urged Christians to integrate faith into everyday life. Just like the Athenians who worshipped "unknown gods," we often separate our spiritual and practical lives. But the truth is, God is already present in everything we do. So let's embrace faith in all aspec...

It is the most well-known and beloved hymn of all time, Amazing Grace, written in 1777 by John Newton. The story behind the song is truly one of amazing grace being found. Let us grow closer to God of Amazing Grace.

Change is an inevitable part of the Christian life, and as a resurrected people, we are continually being transformed in and through Christ. Stephen encourages us to rejoice in the Lord, pray with humility, and trust in God's unchanging nature, even in the midst of uncertainty and transition. For the graduating students, Stephen reminds them that the gifts and relationships God has given them are...

Don't fear getting older! Growing older is a gift from God! Challenges like loss build character and compassion. You gain wisdom and time to grow closer to God. Embrace your age and share the love of Christ with the world. Stacy preaches "The Speed Bump To Embrace".

May 5 - Speed Bumps: The Rocky Road of Relationships | Emily Wright by WHPC

Join Pastor Kevin as he shares a heartfelt sermon on navigating life's challenges and discovering God's plan amidst uncertainty. Drawing from personal experiences and scripture, Pastor Kevin offers hope and encouragement for those facing career transitions, failures, and moments of doubt. If you're seeking guidance and reassurance in life's journey, don't miss this inspiring message of faith and r...

Feeling lost after losing a loved one? You're not alone. Loss can feel overwhelming and like the end of the road. The story of Naomi and Ruth from the Book of Ruth are an example. Naomi experiences deep grief after losing her husband and sons. Despite Naomi's despair, her daughter-in-law Ruth chooses to stay with her. Ruth's loyalty and companionship are a source of comfort for Naomi. Be a "Ruth"...

Pastor Emily's sermon reflects on the metaphor of speed bumps in life, drawing from her own experience of encountering unexpected obstacles on familiar paths. She asks her congregation to reflect on their own "speed bumps," which range from work challenges to health struggles. Through the story of Jesus healing a blind man, Pastor Emily emphasizes that struggles, whether physical or emotional, are...

On this Mission Emphasis Sunday we welcome guest pastor Ezequiel Herrera from New Life Faith Community in McAllen, TX preaching his sermon "Sent to Share".

Mar. 31 - (Easter) - God Is Doing a New Thing | Emily Wright by WHPC

Pastor Emily is sharing with you is a first person account from the apostle Peter. This means that she will be acting like she is the apostle Peter. Peter was one of Jesus’ 12 original disciples. We have been looking at different stories about Peter the past 5 weeks. For today, while there will be many scriptural references, this is purely a figment of her imagination. We, the congregation will ac...

Mar. 17 - Wandering Heart: Teach Me | Stacy Ikard by WHPC

Mar. 10 - Wandering Heart: I'm Fixed Upon It | Kevin Ireland by WHPC

Emily Wright preaches “Praise the Mount” as part of our “Wandering Heart” series. In today’s passage (Matthew 16:13-20) Jesus asks the disciples what they believe about him not because he needs validation, but to encourage them to actively engage with their faith and make it personal. We are encouraged to reflect on our own experiences of Jesus and how our faith fits into our lives. Sharing our fa...

Feb. 25 - Wandering Heart: Rescue Me From Danger | Emily Wright by WHPC

Feb. 18 - Wandering Heart: Jesus Sought Me | Stephen Finkel by WHPC

Feb. 11 - New Year, New Way to Live: New Strength | Emily Wright by WHPC

TalkBack: New Year, New Way to Live - Chapter 6 by WHPC