Dr. Philip Clayton directs the PhD program in comparative theologies and philosophies at the Claremont School of Theology. As a scholar, he works at the intersection points of science, philosophy, and theology. As an activist he is president of EcoCiv.org. The organization works internationally to support multi-sector innovations toward a sustainable society through collaborations between governments, businesses, policy experts, and NGOs.

As part of our earth month sermon series, Pastor Jen explores the mystery and majesty of the oceans. This element of God’s creation not only contains endless wonder, but also sustains life on earth and must be protected.

Today we launch a new sermon series and adult education lineup focused on climate justice. While it can feel like preaching to the choir at Claremont UCC to talk about environmentalism, it is an issue that must stay at the forefront of our minds because progress is dependent on people of faith uniting to protect our planet. In today's sermon, Pastor Jacob explains how creation care is not a political issue, or even a hot-button issue, instead it is an integral part of what it means to be a Christian.

On Easter morning, Pastor Jen considers why Mark ended his gospel story with more questions than answers. How might we find the risen Christ among us?

In the shadows of Good Friday, Pastor Jen takes us to the final hours of Jesus’ life and examines the fact that everyone was frustrated and angered by his refusal to answer their questions. In what ways do we still try and force Jesus to say and do what we want? And what can we learn from his silence?

The story of the Last Supper comes right in the middle of Jesus telling his disciples that Judas is going to betray him and that Peter is going to deny him. And yet, Jesus still sits down with these two men and shares a meal. Jesus informs them that they should eat this meal again and again to remember one simple fact: God's love and grace is always with them. No matter what.

Pastor Jen brings us another Easter Egg from the Gospel of Mark. Join her as she examines the symbolism of the withered fig tree that Jesus curses and compares it to his infamous “Temple Tantrum,” during which he quotes the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah in an effort to highlight God’s love for ALL people.

In Mark 14, the Chief Priests and scribes are conspiring to find a way to secretly put Jesus to death. But in the middle of their plans comes the story of an unnamed woman with an alabaster jar. Her small act of kindness serves as a subversive act of goodness to counter the hatred of the Chief Priests' plans. And now, her amazing story calls us to join the revolution of kindness.

In the blockbuster movie Inception, the characters travel into a dream within a dream within a dream. This week, Pastor Jacob explains that the Gospel of Mark is a story within a story within a story. But what all of these layers of stories reveal is that a life of faith doesn't mean we have all of the answers. There is never a pint where we have "arrived at faith." Instead, a life of faith is a continuous journey of learning more about ourselves and the world around us.

Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy serves as President of Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, California. One of the UCC seminaries, PSR is a progressive, multidenominational seminary and center for social justice that prepares theologically and spiritually rooted leaders to work for the well-being of all. A committed pastor, a nationally recognized higher education and immigration leader, and a sought after speaker, Vásquez-Levy leads at the intersection of faith, higher education, and social change. His innovations have led to cinrease access in theological education and leadership formation. Originally from Guatemala, Vásquez-Levy has lived in four countries, including working on refugee resettlement in Canada, and taught courses and led international study and service trips across the globe.