2.3.2026 PBPC Family Bulletin

PBPC Family,

On Sunday, we explored how the Lord's Prayer is saturated with Old Testament Scriptures. Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray Scripture. As we learn to pray, Scripture gives us both the form, content, and shape for our prayers. It is also a faithful means by which we commune with God.

I shared a quote from Martin Luther that provides a simple structure on how to pray Scripture.

"I divide each [biblical] command into four parts, thereby fashioning a garland of four strands. That is I think of each commandment as first, instruction, which is really what it is intended to be, and consider what the Lord God demands of me so earnestly. Second, I turn it into a thanksgiving; third, a confession; and fourth, a prayer."

Luther's framework can be summarized in 4 simple questions, which then shape one's prayer

  1. What does this passage teach me?
  2. How does this passage lead me to praise, awe, and thanksgiving of God?
  3. What does this passage reveal about my life that I need to confess?
  4. What prayers does this passage inspire?
I encourage you to try Luther's framework for prayer. You can even take the Scripture passage for this upcoming Sunday (or the lectionary passages linked below) and use them as a starting place for prayer.

Looking forward to worshipping with you on Sunday!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Calvin


"God's Absence"

Matthew 25:45-46

Calvin Sodestrom

Pre-Service prayer in the Cafe from 9:30-9:45

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Contemplative Prayer: Tuesdays from 12:30-1:00
The sanctuary will be open from 12:30-1:00pm on Tuesdays for contemplative prayer.

Food Pantry - February 11
Our next food pantry is Wednesday, February 11 from 5:00-6:00pm. Please arrive by 4:30pm to help pack bags.

Palestinian Christian Ashraf Jaraysa Visiting - February 15
On February 15, Ashraf Jaraysa will visit PBPC and share his story and some of his olive wood products. Ashraf Jaraysa is a fourth-generation olive wood artisan from Beit Sahour, near Bethlehem. He is staying with Ginnie and David, who will host a gathering at their house in Moraga (email me for the address) on Saturday February 7 from 2:00-5:00pm - this will be an opportunity to get to know Ashraf and purchase some of his wares.

Ash Wednesday - February 18
Park Boulevard will not be hosting an Ash Wednesday service this year (it falls during President's Day Break and we'll be in the snow with the kids). If you would like to receive ashes or attend an Ash Wednesday service, the following local churches are hosting opportunities for worship.
Fred James Memorial Service - February 21
Fred James, a longtime friend of PBPC, passed away on December 31, 2025. A service to remember and celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, February 21 at 2:00pm at Creekside Community Church (951 Macarthur Boulevard, San Leandro).

CLICK HERE TO GIVE TO PBPC