Echo Church / Rochester MN

Pastor Andy Cass A puzzle that’s 99.9% finished is still 100% frustrating — because one missing piece changes everything. You are meant to be placed in the puzzle, a unique and essential piece in the beautiful picture God is putting together. Every piece matters. Every person has purpose. God has entrusted each of us with something valuable; time, gifts, opportunities, and influence. He expects us to use them faithfully. TEXT Matthew 25:14–19, Matthew 25:21, Matthew 7:11, 2 Corinthians 9:8, James 5:16, Isaiah 55:11, Philippians 1:6, 1 Samuel 3:10 NOTES: BIG IDEA: God’s goal for your life(and leadership) is to be Productive, Effective, Successful, and Finished. -Productive in purpose -Effective in impact -Successful in obedience -Finished in faith. Big Question: How can I be considered “the good and faithful servant?” The Plan: -Leverage your strengths. -Identify your strengths. -What if God could use your S.H.A.P.E.? (Eric Rees) -Use your strengths in community — Echo Church, work, school, family. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

You are meant to be part of something bigger — a piece in the beautiful picture God is putting together. In this message, Tabs and Blanks: Placed in the Puzzle, every person has a place, a purpose, and a design that fits perfectly within God’s plan. Pastor Andy Cass TEXT: Matthew 18:1–5;Matthew 15:10; Mark 8:34; Matthew 10:1; Romans 12:6; 1 Samuel 3:10 NOTES: Question- Where are you in this? Where are you in this progression? Child → Crowd → Disciple → More Like Jesus. "Think about the puzzle piece — every puzzle piece has tabs and blanks, parts that connect and parts that need connection. God made you that way on purpose. Your strengths are meant to bless others, and your weaknesses create space for others to fit in." Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Pastor Andy Cass Kids are naturally bold—honest, unfiltered, and fearless. Somewhere along the way, though, we lose that sense of daring faith. In Bold Go, Bold Stay, we’re reminded that boldness isn’t just about personality or volume; it’s about posture—a Spirit-led conviction rooted in God’s Word. Through Acts 17, we watch Paul and Silas live boldly and proclaim truth, even when it meant chaos, opposition, and risk. They went where God sent them, spoke what God gave them, and stood firm in the face of fear. Whether God calls you to go or stay, boldness begins with immediate obedience and continues with faithful endurance. Big Bold Idea: We’re here today because someone before us loved and lived the Bible boldly — and was led by His Spirit. Supporting Scriptures: Acts 17:2–10; 2 Timothy 4:1–2; Ephesians 6:4; Luke 12:4; Romans 10:15–16 Notes: Five Words That Shape Boldness- Arrival – Bold is to Go. Boldness begins with a yes. It’s immediate obedience — moving when God says “go,” not when you feel ready. Method – Bold is to Know. Know His Word, His Voice, and who you are in light of His truth. Boldness isn’t recklessness — it’s preparedness with purpose. Outcome – Bold is to Grow. What kind of fruit is your life producing? Boldness leads to growth in faith, character, and influence. Effect – Bold Won’t Please Everyone. True boldness doesn’t always draw applause. Sometimes it stirs opposition — but obedience matters more than approval. Departure – Bold Goes, Bold Stays. It takes courage to step out, and just as much courage to stay planted. Boldness is following the Spirit — whether He sends or settles you. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

This week’s message features three voices from our Echo Church community — Ron Ferguson, Marc Becker, and Bethany Von Steinbergs — each sharing powerful 10-minute messages on courage, calling, and how God works through ordinary people. From Moses, David, and the disciples, we see that God has always chosen imperfect people to accomplish His perfect plans. Each story reminds us that bold faith isn’t about having it all together — it’s about trusting the One who does. Key Themes: God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Boldness often grows in the middle of insecurity, fear, or failure. God shows up and speaks to us in the everyday, mundane moments of life. Immediate obedience is the mark of true boldness — saying yes before we see the outcome. The real question isn’t if God is calling — it’s what’s preventing you from following? Call to Action: Step out of hesitation and into obedience. God’s not waiting for perfection — He’s inviting participation. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #BoldFaith #ImmediateObedience #OrdinaryPeople #FaithInAction #EchoChurchMessages

Portia Allen Your passion for reading God’s Word shapes your life more than you realize. The Bible isn’t just ancient text—it’s a living anchor for bold living today. In Bold and Bible, Portia Allen shares how a growing love for Scripture fuels courage, conviction, and Spirit-led living. We explore Ephesians 6, where Paul—an “ambassador in chains”—prays not for comfort, but for courage. From the Book of Acts to our everyday lives, we see how the Holy Spirit empowers ordinary believers to speak truth, love deeply, and live boldly. Text: Ephesians 6:19–20, Romans 10:15–16, Acts 18:1–3; 24–28, Acts 19:1–7, Acts 1:4–8, John 16:13–14, Ephesians 1:13 Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Two thousand years ago, Jesus lived, died, rose again, and sent His Spirit to embolden His followers. Two thousand years later, the same Spirit still empowers His people — and Echo Church is part of that story. This message, Ambassadors, calls us to rediscover what it means to live with courage and conviction in a culture of compromise. We are not spectators of faith — we are participants, proclaimers, and ambassadors of Christ. The Apostle Paul, even while chained in prison, prayed for the courage to speak boldly as he must — not as he might. That same calling is ours today: to live the Word, love the world, and lead others with Spirit-led boldness. Pastor Andy Cass Supporting Scriptures: Ephesians 6:19–20; 2 Corinthians 5:20; Acts 1–2; Romans 10:14–15; Matthew 4:4 NOTES: Big Bold Idea: Echo Church exists today because someone before us loved and lived the Bible boldly — and was led by His Spirit. We are called to be bold — not reckless, but Spirit-led; not arrogant, but anchored in truth. The same power that filled the early church fuels us today. Boldness is not optional for ambassadors of Christ — it’s essential. We are called to be Builders, Bearers, and Beacons: A city on a hill cannot be hidden — we shine for a purpose. BOLD is not just a FONT: F – Fad → Boldness isn’t a fad; it’s a lifestyle. O – Opinion → Boldness isn’t arrogance or pride; it’s rooted in truth and humility, not just feelings or ideas. N – Noise → Boldness isn’t noise-making; it’s Spirit-led, strategic words and actions. T - Tyranny — not an attempt to control, not a weapon, not a way to secure our own safety. Boldness is love in action. Closing Reflection For eighty generations, followers of Jesus have carried the Gospel forward. From Paul’s prison cell to Martin Luther’s reformation, bold believers have risked everything so that we might hold the Word of God in our hands today. There are over six billion Bibles in print — may yours not sit silent on a shelf, but speak boldly through your life. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Welcome to At the Movies! Because this series uses copyrighted movie clips, most of the message and service cannot be shown online. However, we’ve included a portion of worship for you to enjoy wherever you are. We’d love for you to join us in person for the full service and our next message series that is called BOLD & BIBLE. Until then, may this time of worship refresh and encourage you today. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Welcome to At the Movies! Because this series uses copyrighted movie clips, most of the message and service cannot be shown online. However, we’ve included a portion of worship for you to enjoy wherever you are. We’d love for you to join us in person for the full At the Movies experience — it’s the best way to see it all. Until then, may this time of worship refresh and encourage you today. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Pastor Andy In a world that feels divided and heavy, how do we keep moving forward in faith? This week’s At the Movies message is a prequel to mission: the Co-Mission. We look at Matthew 28, where Jesus gathers His disciples—worshippers and doubters alike—and sends them on the greatest mission ever given. The good news? Doubt doesn’t disqualify us. Jesus still calls and commissions us. Just like Moses wrestled with fear in Exodus 4, we too can feel unqualified, uncertain, and tempted to step back. But Jesus’ words are clear: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go…” Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 28:16–20; 1 Corinthians 10:13 — God Key Themes & Takeaways: BIG IDEA -We think doubt disqualifies us, but Jesus sends doubters. All authority belongs to Him, He is always with us, and He will teach us what to say. Doubt doesn’t disqualify you—Jesus sends you anyway. Three promises to carry: All authority belongs to Him. He is always with me. He will teach me what to say. Evangelism isn’t about pity, guilt, or obligation—it’s about genuine love and invitation. The prayer that reframes it: “God, give us eyes to see people the way You do.” Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Pastor Andy Cass What if the tension you feel at the table isn’t a problem to solve, but an opportunity to grow? This week in At the Movies, we explore the tension at the table. In Luke 22, Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples, but arguments rise about greatness, expectations, and who deserves the best seat. Communion was never meant to be exclusive—it was always meant to be expansive. At the Lord’s Table, tension is not the enemy—it’s the opportunity. Communion isn’t just a meal we consume; it’s a mission we live. When we embrace the tension instead of avoiding it, the table becomes a place of service, sacrifice, and sending. Moral of the Story: Invite the tension. Make room at the table. Go get one more. Supporting Scriptures: Luke 22:14, 24–27, James 2, Luke 14, 1 Corinthians 11:20–22 Big Idea: The table isn’t for the polished; it’s for the hungry. Tension at the table is the chance to look more like Jesus—shifting from selfishness to service, and from comfort to open-handed generosity. Key Themes & Takeaways: From “What’s in it for me?” → “What’s here for others?” Encouragement, hope, healing, and life change. From “Expecting etiquette” → “Embrace the awkward.” Who’s your “Bob” you need to welcome? From “Comfort is king” → “Give up your seat.” Make space for someone new. From “Hoarding” → “Give with open hands.” Share meals, resources, and love. Call and Response- The table isn’t the end… It’s the send! We don’t just gather to eat… We scatter to invite! We leave full… So others can come hungry! We carry the bread… Until the world is fed! Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Pastor Christy Cass As we close the Made to Garden series, this message reminds us that fear doesn’t have to drive us into hiding. From Genesis 3, we see the first humans cover themselves with fig leaves and hide when shame and fear entered the story. Yet God’s response wasn’t condemnation—it was an invitation: “Where are you?” Supporting Scriptures: Genesis 3:1–10, Proverbs 8:13, 2 Timothy 1:7, John 3:20, 1 Corinthians 10:13 Big Idea: God doesn’t yell from the fence line—He walks into the garden. He comes close. The invitation is to step out of hiding, trade fear for trust, and walk with Him in the open. Key Themes & Takeaways: There are two fears in the garden: Fear that hides from God (shame, paralysis, people-pleasing). Fear of the Lord (holy awe that leads to trust and obedience). Alignment with God happens in head (truth), heart (desires), and hands (obedience). Obedience is our “yes.” Outcomes are His responsibility. Practical Steps to Live Fearless: Generosity & Hospitality → move from closed hands to open tables. Courageous Witness → everyday invitations, bold in love. Peacemaking → have hard conversations with truth and grace. Creativity & Resilience → choose fresh hope over cynicism. Community & Correction → walk together, not in isolation. Work & Integrity → live honest and excellent before God and others. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

This message explores Mark 12:1–12 and the parable of the vineyard, showing how God has intentionally planted, invested, and entrusted us with His resources — and what it means to live faithfully as caretakers of His garden. Pastor Andy Cass Key Themes & Takeaways: God is intentional: He planted, built, and provided — showing His deep care. We are renters, not owners: What we’ve been entrusted with belongs to Him. The danger of entitlement: Tenants treated God’s gifts as their own. The big question: What are you doing with your vineyard… your garden… your life? Community matters: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Cor. 15:33). Who’s in the garden with you? Faithfulness is not hoarding — it’s sharing God’s blessings fresh with others. Big Idea: Blessings are not meant to be canned and stored — they’re meant to be shared. Financially → Give it, don’t can it. Time → Invest it, don’t can it. Talent → Use it, don’t can it. Peace, Love, Joy, Patience → Share them freely. Supporting Scriptures: Genesis 2:15 — “God took the man and put him in the garden to work it and care for it.” Mark 12:1–12 — The parable of the tenants. 1 Corinthians 15:33 — “Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Timothy 6:7 — “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” Invitation: Don’t wait for His return — invite the Gardener into your home, your daily life, and your everything. The beauty of the garden is that it’s slow. Growth takes time, but His presence makes it worthwhile. Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Bethany von Steinbergs Welcome to Echo’s Made To Garden series — a journey through purpose, passion, and spiritual growth. In this message, guest speaker Bethany von Steinbergs helps us explore how God designed us to cultivate a life of meaning, humility, and service. Scripture References: Galatians 6:1–10 – A call to creativity, generosity, humility, and perseverance. Key Themes: Finding balance between high purpose and high passion Living with humility and guarding against arrogance How true purpose is cultivated, not achieved overnight Learning to plant seeds of faith and serve others in community Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #MadeToGarden #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Pastor Andy Cass In this message, we explore what it means to truly "garden" the life God has entrusted to us, using the parable of the talents as a guide. Learn how Managing, Nurturing, Offering, and Protecting (MNOP) can transform your faith, relationships, and purpose into a flourishing harvest. TEXT: Genesis 2:15, Matthew 25:14-19, Proverbs 16:3, Deuteronomy 6:6-9, Leviticus 19:9-10, 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, John 10:10, Exodus 14:14, Nehemiah 4:14, Matthew 25:21 NOTES: Big Idea: “Just because you plant doesn’t mean you’ll produce a crop.” Reminder: You are made to garden — placed in a garden of growth, opportunity, and blessing. Root 01: The mindset of a gardener is humility. Root 02: The cadence of a gardener is infused with faithfulness and patience. Root 03: The actions of the gardener are Managing, Nurturing, Offering, and Protecting (MNOP). Living Between L & Q M – Management: Assessment: Know what you’ve been entrusted with. Plan: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Schedule: 6 on, 1 off (Sabbath). N – Nurturing: God would rather see you fail trying than fail by not trying because of fear. O – Offering: “It’s not just how you care, but how you share.” P – Protection: “A gardener doesn’t just plant—they protect.”

Pastor Holly Wagner Life can feel overwhelming, but God has placed you in a garden—a place of growth, opportunity, and blessing. Learn how to handle pressure through prayer, alertness, and gratitude so you can thrive in every season. TEXT: Genesis 2:15, James 1:2-4, Colossians 4:2, James 5:13-16, Hebrews 4:16, Luke 12:54-56, 1 Peter 5:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Psalm 77:3, Philippians 4:11-13 NOTES: 1. Pray diligently 2. Stay alert 3. Determine to be grateful