Spiritual Journeys: Weekly Messages from St. Peter's Episcopal Church

In this moving Memorial Day sermon, Dr. Brad Devore—an active-duty Navy officer and neuropsychologist—shares powerful reflections on community, sacrifice, and mental health. Drawing from personal experience aboard the USS *Harry S. Truman* and his clinical work at UC San Diego, Brad explores how connection and belonging are not only crucial for our spiritual lives, but also for our emotional and p...

In this heartfelt sermon, we celebrate the baptism of baby Owen—a joyful moment that brings the church family together across generations. But more than just a special occasion, Owen’s baptism reminds us of something deeper: that God doesn’t love us from a distance. God loves us up close. Drawing from the stunning vision in Revelation and the tender words of Jesus in John’s Gospel, we’re reminded...

How does a skull ring worn by Keith Richards point us toward the heart of the Gospel? Join us as we explore the surprising connections between rock stars and redemption, betrayal and glory, and the radical love Jesus commands of us all. Drawing from John’s Gospel and the example of Jesus’ self-giving love, this sermon challenges us to look beyond appearances and embrace a deeper, unconditional lov...

Join us for a deeply moving and personal sermon from Anne Iverson-Peltier, a longtime member and leader at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. In this beautiful message, Anne explores the power of storytelling—both in our faith and our lives—through the lens of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Drawing on childhood memories, her experience with the Education for Ministry (EfM) program, and the scriptures from...

This past weekend, we were delighted to welcome Liz Ramirez to the pulpit as our guest preacher. Representing United Cerebral Palsy of San Diego, Liz shares her inspiring journey of faith, service, and advocacy, shining a light on the truth about cerebral palsy—dispelling myths, celebrating possibilities, and reminding us of the strength and dignity of those living with disabilities. With over 30...

In this sermon, Mother Paige explores the story of the risen Jesus appearing to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, emphasizing how Christ is revealed in moments of brokenness and shared presence—especially in the breaking of the bread. Rather than focusing on doubt, as in the more commonly told story of Thomas, she highlights the humor, humanity, and deep significance of this Lukan resurrection...

“Alleluia, Christ is risen! The Lord is risen indeed!” But what does resurrection really mean when the world still feels so broken? In this powerful Easter message, Mother Paige invites us to wrestle with the tension between the promises of new life and the realities of pain, fear, and confusion. Drawing on the Gospel of Luke, Isaiah’s prophetic vision, and even Buffy the Vampire Slayer, she remin...

Join us for a beloved Holy Week tradition at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Del Mar—a dramatic reading of the Passion Narrative from the Gospel of Luke (Chapters 22–23). This powerful retelling captures the emotion, intensity, and sacred depth of Jesus’ final hours as told by Luke, drawing listeners into the heart of the story. Through voices from our congregation, sound, and scripture, this imme...

As Lent comes to a close, Rev. Susan reflects on Mary’s bold and beautiful act of anointing Jesus—an intimate moment of love and faith shared in public. In a world full of distractions and expectations, this sermon reminds us that the small, heartfelt things we do—acts of kindness, forgiveness, compassion—can be lifted into God’s greater purpose. As we approach Holy Week, we’re invited to follow M...

The Parable of the Prodigal Son is one of Jesus' most well-known stories, but have you ever considered how the way we name and interpret it shapes its meaning? In this sermon, we explore the powerful themes of grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation, drawing insights from Amy-Jill Levine’s scholarship. Discover how this parable fits into a trilogy of lost-and-found stories in Luke’s Gospel and...

In this powerful sermon, Beth Beall challenges us to open our eyes and hearts to the needs of vulnerable children, just as Moses noticed the burning bush. She shares the moving story of Alex, a boy born with HIV and abandoned in a Tijuana hospital, who found safety and healing at the Eunime orphanage—one of St. Peter’s ministry partners. Through the generosity of this faith community, Alex and oth...

Join us for this inspiring Lenten sermon as Susan explores the power of love, mercy, and repentance in deepening our relationship with God. Through biblical examples—from God’s covenant with Abram to Jesus’ teachings and Paul’s encouragement—she reminds us that God earnestly desires a relationship with each of us and is always ready to forgive. As we reflect on personal accountability and take ste...

What defines who we are? In this powerful Lent sermon, we explore the theme of identity—not just who we are, but whose we are. Drawing from Deuteronomy and the Gospel of Luke, we reflect on how gratitude, remembrance, and faithfulness shape our understanding of self. Jesus' testing in the wilderness reveals that true identity isn't found in power or status, but in trusting God's love. As we journe...

Faith isn’t about escaping to mountaintops or offering empty words—it’s about action. In this sermon, we’re challenged to step into the messy realities of life rather than searching for a perfect, conflict-free utopia. True belonging and peace come when we engage with the world, even when it’s difficult. God’s love, like an ocean surrounding us, gives us the strength to face challenges with courag...

How do we love when it feels impossible? In this powerful sermon, Mother Paige unpacks Jesus’ teachings from the Sermon on the Plain, calling us to radical love, mercy, and forgiveness—even toward our enemies. Drawing from the story of Joseph and the wisdom of scripture, she challenges us to break free from resentment and trust in God’s justice. When we build our lives on a foundation of love, we...

In a world that tempts us to rely on power, success, and the status quo, where do we truly place our trust? This sermon explores the contrast between trusting in human institutions and placing our faith in God. Drawing from scripture, we are reminded that true blessing comes when we are rooted in God’s love rather than earthly security. No matter how uncertain the world may seem, God’s steadfast l...

What happens when life takes an unexpected turn? In this sermon, Deacon Pete shares his personal story of facing uncertainty after leaving the Navy, going through a divorce, and losing his home—all while trusting in God’s plan. Drawing parallels to the Gospel story of Jesus calling his first disciples, Deacon Pete reminds us that faith often requires stepping into the unknown. Just as Simon Peter,...

What does it mean to carry the light of Christ in our daily lives? In this week's sermon for the Feast of the Presentation (Candlemas), Mother Paige explores the deep spiritual significance of Jesus as both immediate and infinite—God’s light revealed to the world. Reflecting on Simeon’s song, the power of hope, and the call to be bearers of Christ’s light, this message invites us to consider w...

This week Mother Paige explores the powerful call to transform the world through God’s love and grace. We dive into Jesus’ inaugural address in Luke’s Gospel where He proclaims His mission: to bring good news to the poor, recovery of sight to the blind, freedom for the oppressed, and healing to a broken world. Mother Paige reminds us that we are uniquely gifted and purposefully placed in this time...

This week, we dive into the story of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana, a powerful revelation of God’s nature during the Epiphany season. We explore how Jesus’ first miracle introduces the reign of God as one of transformation, joy, and abundant love, and how God takes what is old and makes it new. How can we embrace our unique gifts as stewards of God’s grace, partnering with t...

Using the imagery of water, wind, and fire, this sermon dives into the courage it takes to follow Christ, embrace the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and boldly live out our mission of love and service. Discover how Jesus’ baptism sets the tone for our own lives and learn how to reject society’s false identities, nurture faith in others, and embody God’s unconditional love. 👉 Don’t forget to like, commen...

This week, we reflect on the inspiring story of Mary and Elizabeth—a tale of courage, faith, and boundless love. we explore the themes of love, hope, and transformation, and discover how to carry these into our lives this season and beyond. 🌟 As we approach Christmas, how can we prepare our hearts to make room for God’s greatest gift? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more reflecti...

This week we celebrate the third Sunday of Advent through the bold and challenging message of John the Baptist. Deacon Pete reflects on John’s unforgettable presence, inviting us to move beyond complacency and live out our faith through action. Despite his harsh warnings, John introduces joy by teaching that sharing what we have with those in need brings shalom—a peace that makes others whole. Thr...

Discover the true meaning of peace: not just the absence of conflict, but the wholeness that comes through transformation. God works in us, straightening paths, filling valleys, and smoothing rough ways. Transformation may feel topsy-turvy, but it’s how grace and peace are born. #Transformation #FaithJourney #Peace

✨ In a world filled with fear and uncertainty, Advent invites us to let our light shine and be the hope we long for. Join Mother Paige as she unpacks Luke's apocalyptic message, revealing how beginnings and endings are all part of God's plan for restoration and love. This is your call to show up, spread light, and embrace the season of hope. ✨