This year, our clergy will explore the matrilineal ancestry of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. Together, we’ll examine Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba—why they are named in Jesus’s genealogy and what their stories reveal. These remarkable women, from diverse backgrounds and challenges, showed extraordinary strength, resilience, and courage. Through this series, we’ll reflect on how their lives deepen our understanding of faith, redemption, and God’s grace. For virtual participants, each CREDO lecturer will join our Crossroads Podcast to share insights into the Mothers of the Messiah.

Mothers of the Messiah: Tamar
Sunday, April 27 at 12:30 pm in Bonnell Hall
Join Rev. Dr. Jonah So as we delve into the story of Tamar, a woman who courageously confronted injustice and claimed her place in a world stacked against her. Disguised as a stranger, Tamar took bold action to secure justice after being wronged by her family. Her perseverance led to the birth of Perez and Zerah, placing her firmly in Jesus’ lineage. What can Tamar’s story teach us about courage, justice, and God’s unexpected ways of working through human lives?

Mothers of the Messiah: Rahab
Sunday, May 4 at 12:30 pm in Bonnell Hall
Join Rev. Natalie Owens-Pike as she explores the story of Rahab, a courageous outsider who played a vital role in Israel’s journey to the promised land. By risking her life to protect Israelite spies, Rahab forged an unlikely alliance and earned a place in Jesus’ lineage. How does her story challenge our understanding of faith, belonging, and God’s inclusion of unexpected people?

Mothers of the Messiah: Ruth
Sunday, May 11 at 12:30 pm in Bonnell Hall
Rev. Werner Ramirez will lead us in exploring the story of Ruth, a devoted Moabite who left everything behind to stand by her mother-in-law, Naomi, in a foreign land. Through her loyalty and kindness, Ruth found a new community and became part of the lineage of Jesus. How does Ruth’s story invite us to see faith, family, and God’s providence in fresh ways?

Mothers of the Messiah: Bathsheba
Sunday, May 18 at 12:30 pm in Bonnell Hall
Rev. Chris Palmer will guide us through the story of Bathsheba, a woman whose life was marked by loss, resilience, and an unexpected place in Israel’s royal line. Despite the hardships she endured, Bathsheba became the mother of Solomon and a key figure in Jesus’ genealogy. What can Bathsheba’s journey teach us about survival, redemption, and God’s work amid human flaws?