1855 Knollcrest Circle SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546-4402 USA
On the campus of Calvin University
© 2026 Calvin Institute of Christian Worship
A service plan focused on responses and emotions in worship. Our faith gives us reason for great joy, but we also experience much pain and sorrow in this world. Part of a series of sermons pairing together some of the seemingly irreconcilable paradoxes in the Christian faith.
A worship service plan flowing from the statement that Christian faith "can be found in the deepest despair and at the greatest joy." Habakkuk reminds us that true faith does not ignore life's problems, but meets them head on.
A list of thoughts, suggestions and resources compiled in response to the tsunami tragedy of 2004--these are posted in the hope they will guide you in crafting some manner in which your group or congregation can appropriately respond to such events in worship.
A sample church anniversary service based on Psalm 78. The service includes a rehearsal of the story, a recollection and reminder of God's guidance, expressions of thanks and praise, and a commitment to continue faithfully into the future.
A poem written by Marc Nelesen in response to the disaster of Hurricane Katrina. After Hurricane Harvey, it was adapted and used in worship. It can be adapted to be used in response to other natural disasters.
Questions to ask for guiding thoughtful worship planning during a time of war.
A prayer of lament offered in response to the Japanese tsunami tragedy in 2004. It can be adapted for other times of natural disaster.
An Advent service plan focused on the way God lovingly chastens us that our barrenness may give way to fertility and productivity in a series on Micah and the hope that he pronounced.
A service plan focused on the Beatitudes and the blessing on those who mourn in a series on the Beatitudes.
A service plan for Lent from Psalm 73 which acknowledges the seeming inequities of life and the doubts that arise yet declares strength, hope and protection in God our Sovereign Lord. Part of a Lenten series on the Psalms.
A prayer of peace and lament written for the anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.
A service plan focused on the question of why life isn't more fair and the truth that we should have the freedom to be honest with God about our struggles and disappointments. This is part of a series addressing life's toughest questions for Christians.
