Loxa Presbyterian Church

05/17/2026

Sunday, May 17, 2026 — Worship at Loxa Presbyterian Church

Today at Loxa Presbyterian Church, we gathered together to worship, pray, and reflect on the calling every Christian has to boldly share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

A special thank you to Chris Walters for today’s sermon centered around Acts 20:16-24, especially Acts 20:24:

“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”

Paul’s words remind us that his life was no longer about comfort, reputation, or even safety — it was about finishing the work God had given him and boldly proclaiming the Gospel wherever he went. That message carried throughout all of today’s Scriptures.

Romans 1:16 tied directly into this truth:

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth...”

The Gospel is not something Christians are called to hide or water down. It is the very power of salvation. Paul was willing to suffer, travel, endure persecution, and face uncertainty because he knew Jesus Christ changes lives eternally.

That message continued into 2 Timothy 1:8:

“Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord...”

As believers, we are called to stand firm in our faith even when the world pushes against Biblical truth. The sermon reminded us that many people today stay silent about Jesus out of fear, embarrassment, or worry about what others may think. But Scripture continually calls us to boldly testify about Christ and His grace.

Ephesians 1:2-4 reminded us why this matters so deeply:

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ…”

Before the foundation of the world, God had a plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. Salvation is not random chance — it is part of God’s eternal grace and love toward His people.

In 1 Thessalonians 1:3-5, Paul praised believers whose faith became visible through action:

“Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power…”

The Gospel is not just words on a page. It transforms hearts, changes lives, and gives people hope, peace, and purpose through Christ.

Chris also referenced 1 Timothy 1:1-4, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded in sound doctrine and not becoming distracted from the true message of Jesus Christ. In a world full of confusion and distractions, believers must stay focused on God’s truth and grace.

One of the strongest takeaways from today’s sermon was simple but powerful:

Do not be ashamed to tell others about Jesus.

Whether through our words, our actions, our kindness, or our testimony, we are all called to point others toward Christ and the hope found only in Him.

We also closed service by singing “Heavenly Sunlight,” which beautifully reflected today’s message:

“Heavenly sunlight, heavenly sunlight,
Flooding my soul with glory divine;
Hallelujah, I am rejoicing,
Singing His praises, Jesus is mine.”

What a reminder that when we walk with Christ, His light shines through us into a dark world.

Thank you again to Chris Walters for today’s sermon and to everyone who joined us for worship this morning.

All are welcome at Loxa Presbyterian Church.

Sunday Worship — 10:30 AM

210 N Loxa Rd
Mattoon, IL 61938
[email protected]

Our Mission:
Encouraging One Another,
Loving and Serving Our Neighbors,
Glorifying God, and
Enjoying God Forever.

Loxa Presbyterian Church Website

05/17/2026

Sunday, May 10, 2026 — Mother’s Day at Loxa Presbyterian Church

Last Sunday, we gathered together to celebrate Mother’s Day and worship our Lord as one church family. We want to give a special thank you to Chris Walters for bringing the morning sermon and leading us through readings from 1 Samuel and John 4.

The message touched deeply on the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel — a woman carrying sorrow, longing, and burdens deep within her heart. Through prayer and faith, Hannah poured everything out before God. We connected this with John 4, where Jesus meets the woman at the well and offers her something greater than anything this world can provide: living water that truly satisfies the soul.

One of the central reminders from the sermon was that Hannah needed to fill her heart with God, and in the same way, we all must fill our hearts with Jesus. So often we try to fill emptiness with worry, fear, distractions, or the things of this world, but only Christ can truly bring peace, healing, and purpose.

Mother’s Day also reminded us how thankful we are for the mothers, grandmothers, and faithful women who have shaped our lives through love, sacrifice, prayer, and unwavering faith. The bulletin included this beautiful reminder:

“Faith of our mothers living still,
In cradle song and bedtime prayer…”

We also reflected on verses shared during the service:

“Honor your father and your mother...” — Exodus 20:12

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” — 3 John 1:4

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” — Psalm 133:1

Thank you to everyone who joined us for worship, fellowship, prayer, and song. We continue praying for all those listed in our prayer concerns and for everyone carrying burdens that only God fully knows.

All are welcome at Loxa Presbyterian Church.

Sunday Worship — 10:30 AM

210 N Loxa Rd
Mattoon, IL 61938
[email protected]

Our Mission:
Encouraging One Another,
Loving and Serving Our Neighbors,
Glorifying God, and
Enjoying God Forever.

Loxa Presbyterian Church Website

05/07/2026

Sunday, May 3, 2026

Today at Loxa Presbyterian Church, we gathered together in worship, prayer, fellowship, and the study of God’s Word as we completed Acts chapter 4 together.

A heartfelt thank you to Gary Stephen for today’s sermon and for helping guide us through the entire chapter in such a meaningful and thoughtful way.

Acts 4 is a powerful reminder of what happens when ordinary people are filled with extraordinary faith in Jesus Christ.

Throughout the chapter, we saw Peter and John boldly standing before the religious authorities after healing the lame man in the name of Jesus. Even when threatened and pressured to remain silent, they refused to stop speaking about what they had seen and heard. Their courage did not come from worldly power, education, or status. It came from being followers of Christ and being filled with the Holy Spirit.

One of the strongest themes from today’s message was boldness through faith.

The same disciples who once hid in fear after the crucifixion were now publicly proclaiming Christ before powerful leaders. Acts 4 reminds us that when God is truly working within people, faith overcomes fear.

We also reflected on the connection between Acts 4:31 and Isaiah 6:4. In both passages, the shaking of the building served as divine confirmation — a visible sign of God’s approval, holiness, authority, and presence among His people.

In Isaiah 6:4, the foundations of the temple shook in the presence of the Lord’s glory. In Acts 4:31, after the believers prayed together for boldness, “the place was shaken where they were assembled together.” These moments remind us that prayer is powerful, that God hears His people, and that His presence changes everything.

Another major focus today was Acts 4:32 and its connection to Deuteronomy 15:4.

The early believers were described as being “of one heart and one soul.” They willingly shared with one another and cared deeply about the needs of fellow believers. Gary made an important point during the sermon that what was happening in the early church was not forced government control or anything resembling communism, as some today incorrectly try to claim.

Their generosity was voluntary and spiritual.

The believers gave because their hearts had been transformed by Christ. They understood that everything they had came from God, and they desired to care for one another out of love, compassion, unity, and obedience to Him.

This was not about political systems. It was about the Holy Spirit producing generosity within the hearts of believers.

Acts 4 continually points us back to the truth that the Church is not simply a building or a Sunday routine. The Church is the body of Christ — called to pray boldly, stand faithfully, love sacrificially, encourage one another, and proclaim Jesus without fear.

Thank you to everyone who joined us this morning for worship and fellowship. We are thankful for our church family and thankful for the opportunity to continue walking through the Book of Acts together.

210 N Loxa Rd
Mattoon, IL 61938
[email protected]

Service Times
Sunday Worship — 10:30 AM

All are welcome!

Our Mission
Encouraging One Another,
Loving and Serving Our Neighbors,
Glorifying God, and
Enjoying God Forever.

https://loxachurch.manus.space/

Official website for Loxa Presbyterian Church in Mattoon, Illinois, featuring church history, contact information, weekly sermons, and rental information for weddings and events.

05/04/2026

Today we are excited to share that we are placing a $143 donation into the hands of Charleston Discount Grocery, where it will be added to their monthly donation box supporting the Charleston Food Pantry.

As many of you know, we previously donated directly to the food pantry. While that will always be meaningful, this approach allows the impact to grow even more. Donations placed in the store’s box are matched by local businesses, multiplying what we give and helping reach even more families in our community.

We are incredibly thankful for our church members who have generously given so far this year. Your support is making a real difference right here at home.

For those who would still like to contribute, the collection plate will remain on the church table for your convenience. Give as you feel led.

We would also love for our community to join us in worship and fellowship:

Loxa Presbyterian Church
300 Loxa Rd
Mattoon, IL

Sunday Worship begins at 10:30 AM. All are welcome.

Come be a part of what God is doing in our church and community.

04/26/2026

Sunday - April 26, 2026

Today at **Loxa Presbyterian Church**, we gathered for worship and were blessed by a meaningful message from Gary Stephen.

We spent time in **Acts 2:36–41** and **Acts 3**, focusing on repentance, renewal, and the transforming power of Jesus.

In Acts 2, Peter calls the people to repent and turn to Christ, and we see thousands respond. That moment sets the stage for what we witness next in Acts 3.

In Acts 3, Peter and John encounter a man who had been lame from birth, someone who had likely spent his entire life sitting and asking for help. When he looked to them for money, Peter responded with something far greater:

“Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I thee. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.”

And immediately, everything changed.

This wasn’t just a physical healing. It was a picture of what Jesus does in all of our lives. The man didn’t just stand, he went **walking and leaping and praising God**. His life was completely transformed, and he could not keep it to himself.

Acts 3 reminds us that:

* What the world offers is temporary, but what Jesus gives is life-changing
* We may come to God expecting one thing, but He often gives us exactly what we truly need
* When Jesus moves in our lives, there should be a visible response

It also brought to mind that familiar children’s song many of us know:

**“Silver and Gold Have I None”**
Peter and John went to pray.
They met a lame man on the way.
He asked for alms and held out his palms,
And this is what Peter did say,
"Silver and gold have I none,
But such as I have give I thee.
In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,
Rise up and walk."

He went walking and leaping and praising God,
Walking and leaping and praising God,
"In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,
Rise up and walk."

Here’s a fun version of that song to enjoy:

A simple song, but such a deep truth. When Jesus heals and restores us, we are no longer defined by where we were. We are changed, made new, and called to live in that freedom.

Gary reminded us today of our purpose:
**We are here to glorify God.**

We also reflected on this encouragement:

**Listen to the Word**
Listen to Acts 3, and reject the worldly lie that you need to hold on to your shame and negative self-talk. Replace it with the truth that because you have repented of your sins and placed your faith in Christ, your sins are wiped away. Jesus does not condemn you, and neither should you.

What a powerful reminder that in Christ, we are made new.

We closed with *How Great Thou Art* and a beautiful blessing:
May the Lord, mighty Lord, bless and keep you forever.

Thank you again to Gary Stephen for sharing the Word with us today.

Please continue to keep those in our prayer list in your hearts this week, and lift up one another in love.

All are welcome at Loxa Presbyterian Church.
Sunday Worship begins at 10:30 AM.

04/26/2026

We’d love to see a few more faces in our pews this Sunday.

At Loxa Presbyterian Church, we may be a smaller congregation, and that is something we truly value. It gives us the opportunity to slow down, connect, and have meaningful conversations about God’s Word and the message each week. You’re not just another face in the crowd here. You’re part of the discussion.

Whether you’ve been attending church your whole life or it’s been a while, we invite you to come give us a chance. You’ll find a welcoming, down-to-earth group of people who care about faith, community, and growing together.

All are welcome at Loxa Presbyterian Church.
Sunday Worship begins at 10:30 AM.

Come as you are. We’d love to meet you.

04/22/2026

Loxa Presbyterian Church – Sunday Reflection - April 19, 2026

This morning at Loxa Presbyterian Church, we were blessed by a powerful message from Don Pankey. Thank you, Don, for sharing today’s sermon and for reminding us of the constant presence and protection of God in our lives.

Today’s message centered on Psalm 121, a beautiful song of confidence and assurance:

📖 “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” — Psalm 121:1-2

Psalm 121 reminds us that God is not distant or unaware. He is our ever-present help, our protector, and our keeper. He does not sleep or grow weary. He watches over us day and night, guarding our lives in every step we take.

📖 “Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” — Psalm 121:4

📖 “The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.” — Psalm 121:8

Don shared a powerful and personal reminder of this truth. Recently, one of our own, Megan Furry, was involved in a very serious car accident. It could have been far worse… but by the grace of God, it wasn’t.

In moments like that, we are reminded that God is truly watching over His people. Not that we are promised a life without hardship, but that we are never alone in it. God is present. God is protecting. God is sustaining.

Psalm 121 calls us to lift our eyes—not to our fears, not to our circumstances—but to the Lord, the true source of our help.

As we go into this week, may we carry that confidence with us. No matter where we go or what we face, we can trust that God is with us, watching over us, and holding us in His care.

Continued Prayer Requests:
Please continue to keep Megan Furry in your prayers as she continues to recover.
Also lift up Don Pankey’s wife, Janice Hanley LaBougeois, Dana Shick, Joyce Warner, Kyle Walters, Sue Elliot, Ann Roley, Megan Symonds, Brendan, Jesse, Jeff King, Damien White, Karl Nelson, Emily’s friend Jamie, Jodi Ellison, and Jared.
Pray also for Gary Stephen and his ministry.

Please also continue praying for our homes, our church, our community, our state, and our nation.

All are welcome at Loxa Presbyterian Church.
Sunday Worship begins at 10:30 AM.

04/22/2026

Loxa Presbyterian Church – Sunday Reflection (April 12, 2026)

This morning at Loxa Presbyterian Church, we gathered together in worship and were blessed by a meaningful and thought-provoking message from Pastor Chris Walters. Thank you, Pastor Chris, for today’s sermon and for a question that seems simple on the surface, but carries eternal significance:

“Who are you?”

It’s a question we answer almost automatically.
“I’m a doctor.”
“I’m a teacher.”
“I’m a farmer.”
“I’m a salesman.”

We define ourselves by what we do, by our roles, by our responsibilities. But those things, while important, are not our true identity.

Pastor Chris reminded us that before anything else… before our careers, titles, successes, or failures…

We are children of God.

That truth isn’t based on what we’ve earned or achieved. It’s rooted in God’s love for us.

📖 “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” — 1 John 3:1

God doesn’t see us first by our occupation or status. He sees us as His own.

📖 “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.” — Galatians 3:26

Through Christ, we are brought into a relationship that defines who we are at the deepest level.

📖 “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” — Romans 8:16

This means we are not alone. We are not forgotten. We are not defined by our past mistakes or our current struggles.

We are known.
We are loved.
We belong.

And when we truly understand that we are children of God, it begins to change how we live. It shapes how we treat others, how we face challenges, and how we carry ourselves in a world that often tries to define us in other ways.

Our identity in Christ gives us purpose beyond titles, peace beyond circumstances, and hope beyond this world.

As we go into this week, may we hold onto that truth. No matter where life takes us, no matter what roles we fill…

Never forget who you are.
You are a child of God.

Continued Prayer Requests:
Please keep in prayer Don Pankey’s wife, Janice Hanley LaBougeois, Dana Shick, Joyce Warner, Kyle Walters, Sue Elliot, Ann Roley, Megan Symonds, Brendan, Jesse, Jeff King, Damien White, Karl Nelson, Emily’s friend Jamie, Jodi Ellison, and Jared.
Pray also for Gary Stephen and his ministry to rescue and encourage those who need to know the love of God.

Please also continue praying for our homes, our church, our community, our state, and our nation.

All are welcome at Loxa Presbyterian Church.
Sunday Worship begins at 10:30 AM.

04/05/2026

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

What a beautiful Easter Sunday we had today at Loxa Presbyterian Church as we gathered to celebrate the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Today’s message from Gary Stephen centered around Philippians 3:7-11, Hebrews 10:11, and John 15:1-5 — and what a powerful picture these verses paint when brought together.

In Philippians 3:7-11, Paul reminds us that everything this world has to offer pales in comparison to knowing Christ. Easter shows us exactly why. Jesus is not just someone to admire from a distance — He is the risen Savior, and because of Him, we can know the power of resurrection life.

Hebrews 10:11 points us to the reality that for generations, sacrifices were offered again and again, yet they could never fully take away sin. But Jesus changed everything. He became the perfect and final sacrifice once and for all. The cross was not temporary, and the grave was not the end.

And then in John 15:1-5, Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches.” Because of His death and resurrection, we are not just forgiven — we are invited into a living, daily relationship with Him. We are called to remain in Christ, draw our strength from Him, and bear fruit through Him.

That is the beauty of Easter:

Philippians reminds us that nothing compares to knowing Jesus.
Hebrews reminds us that Jesus finished the work of salvation.
John reminds us that because He lives, we can abide in Him and truly live.

Easter is not just about what happened to Jesus.
It is about what is now possible because of Jesus.

Because He rose:

we have forgiveness
we have hope
we have victory
and we have life in Him

A heartfelt thank you to Gary Stephen for today’s message and for faithfully sharing the truth of God’s Word.

A very special thank you to Kay and Norma for the beautiful lilies on the altar today. They were a wonderful reminder of the beauty, hope, and new life we celebrate on Easter morning.

And thank you to Kay Hanley for the beautiful music that helped lead us in worship.

Please continue to keep these in prayer:
Janice Hanley LaBougeois, Dana Shick, Joyce Warner, Kyle Walters, Sue Elliot, Ann Roley, Megan Symonds, Brendan, Jesse, Jeff King, Damien White, Karl Nelson, Emily’s friend Jamie, Jodi Ellison, Jared, and Gary Stephen and his ministry.

Please also continue praying for our homes, our church, our community, our state, and our nation.

Today was a beautiful reminder that the tomb is empty, the cross still speaks, and Jesus is alive.

“But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.”
— Philippians 3:7

“I am the vine; you are the branches.”
— John 15:5

All are welcome at Loxa Presbyterian Church.
Sunday Worship begins at 10:30 AM.

04/05/2026

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

We are all set up and ready for Communion this morning as we gather to celebrate the true meaning of Easter Sunday.

Today is all about the resurrection of Jesus Christ — the victory over sin, death, and the grave. Because He lives, we have hope, mercy, forgiveness, and eternal life through Him.

Church starts at 10:30 AM, so there is still time to make it over and join us.

All are welcome — whether you’ve been coming for years or it’s your first time, we would love to have you with us this morning.

“He is not here; for He has risen, as He said.”
— Matthew 28:6

Come as you are and celebrate the greatest news the world has ever known.

Loxa Presbyterian Church
Service begins at 10:30 AM