Guest Preacher: Rev. Dr. Al Fuertes

Sunday, July 12, 2026, 10a.m.

Little River United Church of Christ welcomed Rev. Dr. Al Fuertes as our guest preacher for worship. A full professor at George Mason University, Dr. Fuertes is an internationally recognized peacebuilder, trauma healing practitioner, and conflict transformation specialist. He was recently appointed as a commissioner for the Philippine Truth and Reconciliation Commission, where he helps address the lasting impacts of the Duterte administration's extrajudicial killings. He has spent decades working alongside government, religious, military, and community leaders, as well as educators, refugees, and humanitarian organizations to promote healing, justice, and reconciliation. Dr. Fuertes also previously served as a covenant pastor with Wellspring UCC.

Drawing from Ecclesiastes 3:1–14, Dr. Fuertes' sermon, "Embracing the Beauty and Complexity of Life," invited us to consider the many seasons of life and the wisdom found in embracing both joy and hardship. Reflecting on the familiar words, "For everything there is a season," he reminded us that Scripture honestly acknowledges the realities of human experience while calling us to seek hope, purpose, and God's presence through every season.

Watch the full worship service below.