THEME:
NOTES:
Scripture:
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
Call to Worship
Invocation
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Praise Hymn
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
Closing Hymn
Sanctuary
"...when you do this, remember me...."
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
May 24, 2020 Memorial Sunday
Morning Worship Text: May 24, 2020
Seventh Sunday of Easter
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center. Today is Memorial Sunday, so you may want to add a picture or keepsake that reminds you of someone who died in war or has recently passed and whose memory is with you today.
Welcome
Musical Meditation
Focus
When new challenges bring new anxiety, what do we do? We turn to scripture! Our forbearers in faith knew a lot about life-changing challenges and they were familiar with anxiety. What did the communities that generated the Book of Acts and the letter/Epistle, 1 Peter, do when faced with new opportunites...and new roadblocks? They remembered and shared the stories of Jesus Christ and the first disciples. So as we navigate the challenging road ahead of us, let us turn to them. And in their witness, we too can find the courage and compassion to move forward in God's will.
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice 1: In the beginning, God said,
Voice 2: "Let there be light," and there was light.
Voice 1: We light these candles today,
Voice 2: Because God is with us in this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: We have come to worship God, the living God,
Voice 2: Who calls prophets and teachers to bear witness.
Voice 1: We have come to praise God, the almighty God,
Voice 2: Who answers the forces of hatred and hurt with the power of grace.
Voice 1: We have come to worship God, all-gracious God,
Voice 2: Who chooses even you and me, to receive and carry the Word of life and hope.
ALL: All glory to God!
~ adapted from a post on the United Church of Christ’s Worship Ways Archive. http://www.ucc.org/
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Almighty God, as we prepare to worship today, we ask that you will stretch our imaginations to sense the majesty and mystery of your ascension. Help us perceive how Jesus' presence in heaven can give us confidence in our praying and hope for the future. Through Jesus, our Lord. Amen.
~ from The Chapter of a Great Lord, posted on the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship website. http://worship.calvin.edu/
Scripture: I Peter 4:12-14, 5:6-11 & Acts 1:6-11
I Peter 4:12-14 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, so that you may also be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory, which is the Spirit of God, is resting on you.
I Peter 5:6-11 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.
Acts 1:6-11 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. While he was going and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion Elders this month are Kathy Sharp and Gwynne Griffith.
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper We share in the bread and cup as we hear the music.
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Holy One,
We gaze towards misty heavens with your disciples of all times.
We long for your visible, physical presence to comfort and embrace us.
Jesus, stand among us, in your ris'n power.
May this time of worship, be a holy hour.
We watch the skies for just a glimpse of your dazzling grace,
and you send us messengers,
to bring our hearts and minds and soul
back into our lives, our bodies, this very present moment,
where your presence is more difficult to see.
Breathe, O Holy Spirit, into ev'ry heart;
bid the fears and sorrows from each soul depart.
Your messengers come to us through the ordinary moments,
reminding us to pray and today we remember....
Your messengers remind us that You, indeed, will empower us
to be your light and life and hope in this world,
to the ends of the earth,
wherever courage and grace is needed.
Thus with quickened footsteps, we'll pursue our way,
watching for the dawning, of eternal day.
We are your people, God,
and as much as we love sky-gazing,
we know that you call us to give witness
in the middle of fear, anxiety, illness, stress, and apathy.
Help us to listen deeply, see far and wide,
and live faithfully.
In Christ we pray,
Amen
~adapted from a prayer written by rev karla, and posted on RevGalBlogPals. http://revgalblogpals.org/
-response from "Jesus Stand Among Us." by W. Pennefather. https://hymnary.org/text/jesus_stand_among_us_in_thy_risen_power
Challenge for Discipleship "We Remember"
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
Seventh Sunday of Easter
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center. Today is Memorial Sunday, so you may want to add a picture or keepsake that reminds you of someone who died in war or has recently passed and whose memory is with you today.
Welcome
Musical Meditation
Focus
When new challenges bring new anxiety, what do we do? We turn to scripture! Our forbearers in faith knew a lot about life-changing challenges and they were familiar with anxiety. What did the communities that generated the Book of Acts and the letter/Epistle, 1 Peter, do when faced with new opportunites...and new roadblocks? They remembered and shared the stories of Jesus Christ and the first disciples. So as we navigate the challenging road ahead of us, let us turn to them. And in their witness, we too can find the courage and compassion to move forward in God's will.
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice 1: In the beginning, God said,
Voice 2: "Let there be light," and there was light.
Voice 1: We light these candles today,
Voice 2: Because God is with us in this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: We have come to worship God, the living God,
Voice 2: Who calls prophets and teachers to bear witness.
Voice 1: We have come to praise God, the almighty God,
Voice 2: Who answers the forces of hatred and hurt with the power of grace.
Voice 1: We have come to worship God, all-gracious God,
Voice 2: Who chooses even you and me, to receive and carry the Word of life and hope.
ALL: All glory to God!
~ adapted from a post on the United Church of Christ’s Worship Ways Archive. http://www.ucc.org/
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Almighty God, as we prepare to worship today, we ask that you will stretch our imaginations to sense the majesty and mystery of your ascension. Help us perceive how Jesus' presence in heaven can give us confidence in our praying and hope for the future. Through Jesus, our Lord. Amen.
~ from The Chapter of a Great Lord, posted on the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship website. http://worship.calvin.edu/
Scripture: I Peter 4:12-14, 5:6-11 & Acts 1:6-11
I Peter 4:12-14 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, so that you may also be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory, which is the Spirit of God, is resting on you.
I Peter 5:6-11 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.
Acts 1:6-11 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. While he was going and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion Elders this month are Kathy Sharp and Gwynne Griffith.
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper We share in the bread and cup as we hear the music.
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Holy One,
We gaze towards misty heavens with your disciples of all times.
We long for your visible, physical presence to comfort and embrace us.
Jesus, stand among us, in your ris'n power.
May this time of worship, be a holy hour.
We watch the skies for just a glimpse of your dazzling grace,
and you send us messengers,
to bring our hearts and minds and soul
back into our lives, our bodies, this very present moment,
where your presence is more difficult to see.
Breathe, O Holy Spirit, into ev'ry heart;
bid the fears and sorrows from each soul depart.
Your messengers come to us through the ordinary moments,
reminding us to pray and today we remember....
Your messengers remind us that You, indeed, will empower us
to be your light and life and hope in this world,
to the ends of the earth,
wherever courage and grace is needed.
Thus with quickened footsteps, we'll pursue our way,
watching for the dawning, of eternal day.
We are your people, God,
and as much as we love sky-gazing,
we know that you call us to give witness
in the middle of fear, anxiety, illness, stress, and apathy.
Help us to listen deeply, see far and wide,
and live faithfully.
In Christ we pray,
Amen
~adapted from a prayer written by rev karla, and posted on RevGalBlogPals. http://revgalblogpals.org/
-response from "Jesus Stand Among Us." by W. Pennefather. https://hymnary.org/text/jesus_stand_among_us_in_thy_risen_power
Challenge for Discipleship "We Remember"
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
May 17, 2020 Easter 6
THEME:
NOTES:
Scripture:
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
Call to Worship
Invocation
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Praise Hymn
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
Closing Hymn
NOTES:
Scripture:
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
Call to Worship
Invocation
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Praise Hymn
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
Closing Hymn
May 10, 2020 Easter 5
Morning Worship Text: May 3, 2020
Fourth Sunday of Easter
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers to complete your worship center. Today, have each person in your household choose a stone to go in the worship area.
Welcome
Musical Meditation
Focus
We place stones in our worship area today, one for each of us as individuals. They remind us how God is building one church out of all of our individual lives. We remember the people who have come before us, whose lives of faith laid the foundation for our own. We remember Christ, the cornerstone of this Church that God is building throughout the world. As we place our stones today, we consider our own roles in the wider purpose of the whole Church and our connections to each other. And we reflect on the love of God that makes a welcome table, here inside this Church.
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice 1: In the beginning, God said,
Voice 2: "Let there be light," and there was light.
Voice 1: We light these candles today,
Voice 2: Because God is with us in this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: We gather to worship in the name of Jesus Christ, our living cornerstone,
Voice 2: Who, though rejected by the world, was chosen and precious in God’s sight.
Voice 1: And like living stones, let us be built up into a spiritual house for God,
Voice 2: Offering sacrifices of worship and praise that are pleasing in his sight.
Voice 1: Let’s worship God together!
~ Christine Longhurst. posted on re:Worship https://re-worship.blogspot.com/2011/05/call-to-worship-for-easter-5.html
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Almighty God, you have built your Church
on the foundation of the apostles and prophets
with Jesus Christ, himself, being the chief cornerstone.
Join us together in unity of spirit by their teaching,
that we may become a holy temple, acceptable to you:
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
— from Starters for Sunday, posted on the website of the Church of Scotland.
Scripture: I Peter 2:2-10
Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. Come to him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God’s sight, and like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it stands in scripture:
“See, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
To you then who believe, he is precious; but for those who do not believe,
“The stone that the builders rejected has become the very head of the corner,”
and
“A stone that makes them stumble, and a rock that makes them fall.”
They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people,; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
"Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people."
Prayer of Communion Elders this month are Kathy Sharp and Gwynne Griffith.
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper We share in the bread and cup as we hear the music.
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Seeking peace in a broken world,
And knowing God’s peace through God’s presence,
we pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Seeking peace in suffering, illness, and pain,
And finding God’s peace through healing, prayer, and those who help
we pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Seeking peace through our distress, depression, isolation, and fear,
And knowing God’s peace through the words of loved ones
and the hope we see in the world,
we pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Seeking peace through the pain of worshipping separately,
longing for our holy community to be gathering,
And finding peace through God’s presence with each of us
as we worship together distantly,
we pray to the Lord.
Lord have mercy.
Help, save, comfort, and defend us, loving Lord.
We need you now, as we have needed you every day.
We cannot live without you.
Amen.
~ written by Pastor Nissa Peterson, Chatfield & Root Prairie Lutheran Churches. Posted on MightyNiss https://mightyniss.blogspot.com/2020/04/kyrie-for-worship-during-coronavirus.html
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
Fourth Sunday of Easter
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers to complete your worship center. Today, have each person in your household choose a stone to go in the worship area.
Welcome
Musical Meditation
Focus
We place stones in our worship area today, one for each of us as individuals. They remind us how God is building one church out of all of our individual lives. We remember the people who have come before us, whose lives of faith laid the foundation for our own. We remember Christ, the cornerstone of this Church that God is building throughout the world. As we place our stones today, we consider our own roles in the wider purpose of the whole Church and our connections to each other. And we reflect on the love of God that makes a welcome table, here inside this Church.
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice 1: In the beginning, God said,
Voice 2: "Let there be light," and there was light.
Voice 1: We light these candles today,
Voice 2: Because God is with us in this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: We gather to worship in the name of Jesus Christ, our living cornerstone,
Voice 2: Who, though rejected by the world, was chosen and precious in God’s sight.
Voice 1: And like living stones, let us be built up into a spiritual house for God,
Voice 2: Offering sacrifices of worship and praise that are pleasing in his sight.
Voice 1: Let’s worship God together!
~ Christine Longhurst. posted on re:Worship https://re-worship.blogspot.com/2011/05/call-to-worship-for-easter-5.html
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Almighty God, you have built your Church
on the foundation of the apostles and prophets
with Jesus Christ, himself, being the chief cornerstone.
Join us together in unity of spirit by their teaching,
that we may become a holy temple, acceptable to you:
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
— from Starters for Sunday, posted on the website of the Church of Scotland.
Scripture: I Peter 2:2-10
Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. Come to him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God’s sight, and like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it stands in scripture:
“See, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
To you then who believe, he is precious; but for those who do not believe,
“The stone that the builders rejected has become the very head of the corner,”
and
“A stone that makes them stumble, and a rock that makes them fall.”
They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people,; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
"Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people."
Prayer of Communion Elders this month are Kathy Sharp and Gwynne Griffith.
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper We share in the bread and cup as we hear the music.
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Seeking peace in a broken world,
And knowing God’s peace through God’s presence,
we pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Seeking peace in suffering, illness, and pain,
And finding God’s peace through healing, prayer, and those who help
we pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Seeking peace through our distress, depression, isolation, and fear,
And knowing God’s peace through the words of loved ones
and the hope we see in the world,
we pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Seeking peace through the pain of worshipping separately,
longing for our holy community to be gathering,
And finding peace through God’s presence with each of us
as we worship together distantly,
we pray to the Lord.
Lord have mercy.
Help, save, comfort, and defend us, loving Lord.
We need you now, as we have needed you every day.
We cannot live without you.
Amen.
~ written by Pastor Nissa Peterson, Chatfield & Root Prairie Lutheran Churches. Posted on MightyNiss https://mightyniss.blogspot.com/2020/04/kyrie-for-worship-during-coronavirus.html
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
May 3, 2020 Easter 4
THEME:
NOTES:
Scripture:
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
Call to Worship
Invocation
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Praise Hymn
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
Closing Hymn
NOTES:
Scripture:
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
Call to Worship
Invocation
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Praise Hymn
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Blessing
Closing Hymn
April 26, 2020 Easter 3
Morning Worship Text: April 26, 2020
Third Sunday of Easter
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center.
Welcome
Musical Meditation:
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: We need your presence on the long road, Lord.
Voice 2: The road between fear and hope,
Voice 1: the path between the place where all is lost
Voice 2: and the place of resurrection.
Voice 1: Like the disciples walking the road to Emmaus,
Voice 2: we are in need of your company!
Voice 1: Jesus, stand among us, in your risen power,
Voice 2: let this time of worship, be a hallowed hour.
~ written by Carol Penner, and posted on Leading in Worship. http://carolpenner.typepad.com/
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Open our eyes, Lord. Without the gift of your revelation, our eyes are kept from recognizing you. Appear before us, suddenly, unexpectedly, in all your glory. So that we, too, may proclaim to a world in despair, that we have seen the risen Lord. Amen.
— written by Nathan Bierma, inspired by a sermon on Luke 24 by John Witvliet. https://re-worship.blogspot.com/2013/03/call-to-worship-emmaus-road.html
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35 Our scripture reading today will be a video performed by iServe and produced by Jonah Wooten.
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Voice 1:
Easter is not an event that has occurred
it's an adventure that has begun
not a place that we have visited
but a path on which we stand
Voice 2:
A story not complete, but unfolding
characters still breathing
stations still teeming
with the promise of new life
not just for you and me
but for all people, in all places
Voice 1:
A cosmic crux, a turning point of time
Voice 2:
Easter is the season of wild hope, of dangerous intent, of potent promise
Voice 1:
Where the future flaps unfurled in the spirit’s breeze
Voice 2:
Where hopes bubble, with uncorked effervescence
Voice 1:
Where toes tap to free-form rhythms
Voice 2:
Where rainbow hues splash empty canvas
Voice 1:
Today, we continue the journey
we re-enter the story
to explore our questions
to uncover our doubts
to face our nagging need
Voice 2:
We walk the path
of two who traveled a dusty road
wrapped in confusion and despair
two who shared the company of a stranger
voicing their pain
airing their fears
and in the listening
heard words of hope and promise
and in the eating
received true bread of life
Voice 1:
Today we re-enter the story
with expectation that Christ
will also reveal himself to us
in sights and sounds
in words and symbols
in bread and wine
~ words by Craig Mitchell (2005) & Iona Community. In “Emmaus Worship Service,” posted on Mountain Masala: Exploring Spirituality, Culture, Media and Cuisine.” http://craigmitchell.typepad.com/mountain_masala/files/Emmaus%20Worship%20Service.pdf
Prayer of Communion Elders this month are Judy Halstead and Dennis Blackburn.
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper We share in the bread and cup as we hear the music.
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
Third Sunday of Easter
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center.
Welcome
Musical Meditation:
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: We need your presence on the long road, Lord.
Voice 2: The road between fear and hope,
Voice 1: the path between the place where all is lost
Voice 2: and the place of resurrection.
Voice 1: Like the disciples walking the road to Emmaus,
Voice 2: we are in need of your company!
Voice 1: Jesus, stand among us, in your risen power,
Voice 2: let this time of worship, be a hallowed hour.
~ written by Carol Penner, and posted on Leading in Worship. http://carolpenner.typepad.com/
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Open our eyes, Lord. Without the gift of your revelation, our eyes are kept from recognizing you. Appear before us, suddenly, unexpectedly, in all your glory. So that we, too, may proclaim to a world in despair, that we have seen the risen Lord. Amen.
— written by Nathan Bierma, inspired by a sermon on Luke 24 by John Witvliet. https://re-worship.blogspot.com/2013/03/call-to-worship-emmaus-road.html
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35 Our scripture reading today will be a video performed by iServe and produced by Jonah Wooten.
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Voice 1:
Easter is not an event that has occurred
it's an adventure that has begun
not a place that we have visited
but a path on which we stand
Voice 2:
A story not complete, but unfolding
characters still breathing
stations still teeming
with the promise of new life
not just for you and me
but for all people, in all places
Voice 1:
A cosmic crux, a turning point of time
Voice 2:
Easter is the season of wild hope, of dangerous intent, of potent promise
Voice 1:
Where the future flaps unfurled in the spirit’s breeze
Voice 2:
Where hopes bubble, with uncorked effervescence
Voice 1:
Where toes tap to free-form rhythms
Voice 2:
Where rainbow hues splash empty canvas
Voice 1:
Today, we continue the journey
we re-enter the story
to explore our questions
to uncover our doubts
to face our nagging need
Voice 2:
We walk the path
of two who traveled a dusty road
wrapped in confusion and despair
two who shared the company of a stranger
voicing their pain
airing their fears
and in the listening
heard words of hope and promise
and in the eating
received true bread of life
Voice 1:
Today we re-enter the story
with expectation that Christ
will also reveal himself to us
in sights and sounds
in words and symbols
in bread and wine
~ words by Craig Mitchell (2005) & Iona Community. In “Emmaus Worship Service,” posted on Mountain Masala: Exploring Spirituality, Culture, Media and Cuisine.” http://craigmitchell.typepad.com/mountain_masala/files/Emmaus%20Worship%20Service.pdf
Prayer of Communion Elders this month are Judy Halstead and Dennis Blackburn.
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper We share in the bread and cup as we hear the music.
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
April 19, 2020 Easter 2
THEME:Hitting the Isolation! Jesus patiently deals with all the challenges brought to him from the Thomas and the other disciples on that first Easter evening.
NOTES:
Scripture:
John 20:19-31
20:19 When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."
20:20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.
20:21 Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you."
20:22 When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit.
20:23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."
20:24 But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came.
20:25 So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe."
20:26 A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."
20:27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe."
20:28 Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"
20:29 Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."
20:30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book.
20:31 But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
Morning Worship Text
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center.
Welcome
Musical Meditation: "I Come to the Garden"
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Leader: Come to worship Jesus Christ, risen forever.
All: Come to rejoice in life born out of death.
Leader: Come to grasp hope in the face of fear.
All: Come to find forgiveness for your sins.
Leader: Come to release your doubts into the very presence of God.
All: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Mighty God,
in whom we know the power of redemption,
you stand among us in the shadows of our time.
As we move through every sorrow and trial of this life,
uphold us with knowledge of the final morning
when, in the glorious presence of your risen Son,
we will share in his resurrection,
redeemed and restored to the fullness of life
and forever freed to be your people. Amen.Scripture: John 20:1-18
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper "O the Blood"
We share in the bread and cup as we hear the Musical Offering by Allison, Hallie and Brooke Harrison
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Sisters and brothers in Christ,
God invites us to bring our doubts and fears,
our joys and concerns, our petitions and praise,
and offer them for the earth and all its creatures.
Prayers of the People, concluding with: Risen Savior, hear our prayer.
-for those who suffer persecution
-for those who live or work in nursing homes and care facilities
-for those compelled to live away from their homes and those in quarantine
-for those who are helpless to protect their families
-for those who have lost their jobs and cannot get jobs
-for those whose faith is tested by illness, loneliness or problems they cannot solve
-for those who are about to enter God's rest
Receive these prayers, O God,
and transform us through them,
that we may have eyes to see and hearts to understand
not only what you do on our behalf,
but what you call us to do
so that your realm will come to fruition in glory. Amen.
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
NOTES:
Scripture:
John 20:19-31
20:19 When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."
20:20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.
20:21 Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you."
20:22 When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit.
20:23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."
20:24 But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came.
20:25 So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe."
20:26 A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."
20:27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe."
20:28 Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"
20:29 Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."
20:30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book.
20:31 But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
Morning Worship Text
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center.
Welcome
Musical Meditation: "I Come to the Garden"
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Leader: Come to worship Jesus Christ, risen forever.
All: Come to rejoice in life born out of death.
Leader: Come to grasp hope in the face of fear.
All: Come to find forgiveness for your sins.
Leader: Come to release your doubts into the very presence of God.
All: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Invocation We pray together in unison.
Mighty God,
in whom we know the power of redemption,
you stand among us in the shadows of our time.
As we move through every sorrow and trial of this life,
uphold us with knowledge of the final morning
when, in the glorious presence of your risen Son,
we will share in his resurrection,
redeemed and restored to the fullness of life
and forever freed to be your people. Amen.Scripture: John 20:1-18
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper "O the Blood"
We share in the bread and cup as we hear the Musical Offering by Allison, Hallie and Brooke Harrison
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Sisters and brothers in Christ,
God invites us to bring our doubts and fears,
our joys and concerns, our petitions and praise,
and offer them for the earth and all its creatures.
Prayers of the People, concluding with: Risen Savior, hear our prayer.
-for those who suffer persecution
-for those who live or work in nursing homes and care facilities
-for those compelled to live away from their homes and those in quarantine
-for those who are helpless to protect their families
-for those who have lost their jobs and cannot get jobs
-for those whose faith is tested by illness, loneliness or problems they cannot solve
-for those who are about to enter God's rest
Receive these prayers, O God,
and transform us through them,
that we may have eyes to see and hearts to understand
not only what you do on our behalf,
but what you call us to do
so that your realm will come to fruition in glory. Amen.
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
April 12, 2020 Easter
Morning Worship Text
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center.
Welcome
Musical Meditation: "I Come to the Garden"
Focus
The hymn "In the Garden," or as it is often known, "I Come to the Garden Alone," was first written by American songwriter C. Austin Miles who lived from 1868-1946. The former pharmacist became the editor of Hall-Mack Publishers for 37 years. To his granddaughter, the most surprising thing about the song is that Miles wrote it while sitting in a windowless, cold, dreary basement in the city with no garden view at all.
The song was published in 1912 and became popular during the evangelical meetings of Billy Sunday. Since then the song has been recorded by a wide variety of artists. The text of the song is setting of John's story of Mary Magdalen encountering Jesus on Easter morning in the garden outside the empty tomb but it has become a classic because he wrote in the first person. As such, it invites each of us into that story, to take our place to walk and talk with Jesus.
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Leader: Morning has broken, but this morning is different.
People: The birds are singing tunes of joy in the trees surrounding the graves. The flower buds are bursting in colors vibrant around each stone.
Leader: We've come to visit the grave of a friend, but "he is not here."
People: The Sun is rising in the East; the shadowed grays turn bright! The Son is risen in our Hearts; darkness and death end in defeat.
Leader: Now we understand what Christ said, what God did.
Now we can proclaim,
People: CHRIST IS RISEN! HALLELUJAH!
-by Rev. Nathan Decker fromUMC Discipleship.org
Invocation We pray together in unison.
O Lord, Risen, alive and full of grace.
You paid such a price that we may live in freedom today.
We worship your holy name and give thanks for your redeeming grace.
Heavenly Father, May we drink in your tender love
so that we can pour this love out to others.
Come reign in our hearts, minds and spirits.
Holy Spirit,We welcome you to blow through
our every word, action and thought.
Come transform us on the inside so that each day
we become more like our risen Lord. Amen.
Scripture: John 20:1-18
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper "O the Blood"
We share in the bread and cup as we hear the Musical Offering by Allison, Hallie and Brooke Harrison
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Christ, the ultimate embodiment of Easter, you are the fresh fragrance of life for all of creation. By our resurrection you have made known to us the life that lasts forever. With faith and joy we cry out to you, "Hear us, Lord of Glory!"
-By your resurrection, show us today the light of life.
-By your resurrection, speak to us the word of life.
-By your resurrection, nourish us with the bread of life.
-By your resurrection, pour out on us the Spirit of life.
-By your resurrection, prepare for us the crown of life.
-By your resurrection, enroll in the book of life those who have died.
Be for them the fullness of life, for ever and ever.
This is a day you have made, Lord, a day when we rejoice and celebrate. Early this morning, you revealed the radiance of your face, our risen Savior, to the women who came to the tomb. Dispel the sadness of those who weep for the dead, and open our eyes to recognize you. You are the one who has/who is the capacity to hold and live life eternally in the fulnes of divine love and grace. AMEN.
-adapted by Mark CR, from page 1509 of the Benedictine Daily Prayer-A Short Breveiary, Liturgical Press, Collegeville, Minnesotta, copyright 2015.
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of white fabric, a cross or bright spring flowers, like lilies to complete your worship center.
Welcome
Musical Meditation: "I Come to the Garden"
Focus
The hymn "In the Garden," or as it is often known, "I Come to the Garden Alone," was first written by American songwriter C. Austin Miles who lived from 1868-1946. The former pharmacist became the editor of Hall-Mack Publishers for 37 years. To his granddaughter, the most surprising thing about the song is that Miles wrote it while sitting in a windowless, cold, dreary basement in the city with no garden view at all.
The song was published in 1912 and became popular during the evangelical meetings of Billy Sunday. Since then the song has been recorded by a wide variety of artists. The text of the song is setting of John's story of Mary Magdalen encountering Jesus on Easter morning in the garden outside the empty tomb but it has become a classic because he wrote in the first person. As such, it invites each of us into that story, to take our place to walk and talk with Jesus.
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Leader: Morning has broken, but this morning is different.
People: The birds are singing tunes of joy in the trees surrounding the graves. The flower buds are bursting in colors vibrant around each stone.
Leader: We've come to visit the grave of a friend, but "he is not here."
People: The Sun is rising in the East; the shadowed grays turn bright! The Son is risen in our Hearts; darkness and death end in defeat.
Leader: Now we understand what Christ said, what God did.
Now we can proclaim,
People: CHRIST IS RISEN! HALLELUJAH!
-by Rev. Nathan Decker fromUMC Discipleship.org
Invocation We pray together in unison.
O Lord, Risen, alive and full of grace.
You paid such a price that we may live in freedom today.
We worship your holy name and give thanks for your redeeming grace.
Heavenly Father, May we drink in your tender love
so that we can pour this love out to others.
Come reign in our hearts, minds and spirits.
Holy Spirit,We welcome you to blow through
our every word, action and thought.
Come transform us on the inside so that each day
we become more like our risen Lord. Amen.
Scripture: John 20:1-18
Sermon
Invitation to the Table The bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper "O the Blood"
We share in the bread and cup as we hear the Musical Offering by Allison, Hallie and Brooke Harrison
Prayer of Thanksgiving "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Christ, the ultimate embodiment of Easter, you are the fresh fragrance of life for all of creation. By our resurrection you have made known to us the life that lasts forever. With faith and joy we cry out to you, "Hear us, Lord of Glory!"
-By your resurrection, show us today the light of life.
-By your resurrection, speak to us the word of life.
-By your resurrection, nourish us with the bread of life.
-By your resurrection, pour out on us the Spirit of life.
-By your resurrection, prepare for us the crown of life.
-By your resurrection, enroll in the book of life those who have died.
Be for them the fullness of life, for ever and ever.
This is a day you have made, Lord, a day when we rejoice and celebrate. Early this morning, you revealed the radiance of your face, our risen Savior, to the women who came to the tomb. Dispel the sadness of those who weep for the dead, and open our eyes to recognize you. You are the one who has/who is the capacity to hold and live life eternally in the fulnes of divine love and grace. AMEN.
-adapted by Mark CR, from page 1509 of the Benedictine Daily Prayer-A Short Breveiary, Liturgical Press, Collegeville, Minnesotta, copyright 2015.
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
April 5, 2020 Palm Sunday
Morning Worship Text
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of purple cloth, a cross or something from your "Lent in a Bag" Family Resource Bag or to complete your worship center.
Focus
God speaks to us through what we see, hear, smell, touch, and taste. We know this intuitively, but to think about it consciously is a powerful form of prayer. When we’re inspired by a song on the radio, when we are moved by the sight of a sweetly vulnerable newborn, or when we are renewed by the cool water of a swimming pool on a hot day, we’re experiencing the creative goodness of God. These moments are proof of what St. Ignatius Loyola believed: that we can and should find God in all things. God meets us where we are, as humans living and breathing and moving in a tangible world, and the five senses are five entry points for God’s love to become known to us.
We invite you, on this Palm Sunday as we live stream worship, to use your five senses and jump into this Palm Sunday Sunday. Allow the Holy Spirit to wake up your sense of smell, sight, touch, taste and hearing, and may this story come to life wherever you maybe as we gather our hearts and minds for this time of worship.
Let us start by lighting the candles which symbolize the presence of Christ, Christ who comes to us as we gather in worship and prayer.
A few Notes for worship leaders:
St. Ignatius Loyola
St. Ignatius Loyola was born in 1491, one of 13 children of a family of minor nobility in northern Spain. As a young man Ignatius Loyola was inflamed by the ideals of courtly love and knighthood and dreamed of doing great deeds.
But in 1521 Ignatius was gravely wounded in a battle with the French. While recuperating, Ignatius Loyola experienced a conversion. Reading the lives of Jesus and the saints made Ignatius happy and aroused desires to do great things. Ignatius realized that these feelings were clues to God’s direction for him.
Over the years, Ignatius became expert in the art of spiritual direction. He collected his insights, prayers, and suggestions in his book the Spiritual Exercises, one of the most influential books on the spiritual life ever written. With a small group of friends, Ignatius Loyola founded the Society of Jesus, or the Jesuits. Ignatius conceived the Jesuits as “contemplatives in action.” This also describes the many Christians who have been touched by Ignatian spirituality.
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
There’s a Man Riding In On a Donkey
Voice 1: There's a man riding in on a donkey,there's a man, and they say he's a king!
Voice 2: And the palm leaves are waving a welcome
and the voices of the people sing:
Unison: Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna to the King of kings!
Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna to the King!
Voice 1: Why a king riding in on a donkey?
Why a king wearing no fine crown?
Voice 2: Where the drums? Where the high-sounding cymbals
if a king is riding into town?
Unison: Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna to the King of kings!
Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna to the King!
Voice 1: Hear the voice of the King on a donkey!
Hear the joy of the news he brings!
Voice 2: He is Jesus, the Son of the Highest.
He is Jesus and the King of kings!
Unison: Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna to the King of kings!
Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna! Sing hosanna to the King!
~ Paul Wigmore. Copyright © Jubilate Hymns (admin. Hope Publishing in North America). If you use this song in worship, be sure to report it on your CCLI license.
Tune: Sing hosanna (“Give me oil in my lamp”)
Invocation We pray together in unison.
All Voices:
Our dear Jesus, we remember how you entered into Jerusalem humbly on a donkey,
seeking to transform the people.
We remember how people gathered from everywhere to wave palm branches
and praise you like a king.
Jesus, enter into our times of prayer and worship,
and transform our hearts and lives.
We may not be gathered together in our sanctuary, but we focus our hearts and minds on one another from our homes and ultimately, together we focus on you, Jesus Christ our savior
and receive you into our presence.
And like the people of old in the streets of Jerusalem, we shout today "Hosanna in the highest!"
AMEN.
Scripture: Mark 11:1-11
11 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus[a] sent two of his disciples 2 and said to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it. 3 If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord has need of it and will send it back here immediately.’” 4 And they went away and found a colt tied at a door outside in the street, and they untied it. 5 And some of those standing there said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” 6 And they told them what Jesus had said, and they let them go. 7 And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it, and he sat on it. 8 And many spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. 9 And those who went before and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! 10 Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!”
11 And he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple. And when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.Sermon "When a day for Jesus started with Hosanna, and ended with a tour of the temple and a night in Bethany"
Invitation to the Table
Musical Offering:
As piano plays the bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper
Prayer of Thanksgiving: "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020 Morning Worship Text
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of purple cloth, a cross or something from your "Lent in a Bag" Family Resource Bag or to complete your worship center.
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: Lift up your voice and call out to God.
Voice 2: We cry out, believing that God hears us.
Voice 1: Come together and wait for God.
Voice 2: We come together, trusting that God is still speaking.
Voice 1: Surely God’s presence is here with us now.
Voice 2: We wait in hope, for God’s steadfast love lifts our hearts.
Voice 1:Come, worship the Lord.
Voice 2: We celebrate the power of God that restores us.
~ written by Rev. Nancy J., and posted on her wonderings through life and other such nonsense. http://ruminari.wordpress.com/
Invocation We pray together in unison.
All Voices:
Loving God, we are yours.
We come as we are, with our cares and concerns.
We long to touch you and find healing in your embrace.
Strengthen our faith and heal our brokenness,
that we may worship you with joy. Amen.
— adapted from The Abingdon Worship Annual 2009, © 2008 Abingdon Press. Posted on the Ministry Matters website. http://www.ministrymatters.com/
Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-14
The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. 2 He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. 3 He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”
I said, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know.”
4 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! 5 This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath[a] enter you, and you will come to life. 6 I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.’”
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. 8 I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them.
9 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’” 10 So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.
11 Then he said to me: “Son of man, these bones are the people of Israel. They say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel. 13 Then you, my people, will know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves and bring you up from them. 14 I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares the Lord.’”
Children's Moment
Sermon
Invitation to the Table
Musical Offering:
As piano plays the bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper
Prayer of Thanksgiving: "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
***Joys & Concerns
***Because we are connecting on a public internet forum, the Revs. will not be sharing Joys and Concerns aloud. Please share these within your Care Group and watch your weekly email bulletin for a prayer list. If you do not have a Care Group Assignment by Wednesday, March 25, please let the church office know.
Morning Prayer
God of mercy and compassion, we praise you for this day on which you raised Jesus from the depths of the earth when his time of suffering was ended. Because of the love you have shown us in him, we turn to you and pray: Lord, bless your people.
-You created a world of goodness and beauty; help us to cherish the work of your hands, and make us wise in the use of your gifts.
-Jesus is our good shepherd. Through His love keep us united in faith, and restore the oneness of your people; especially during these days of isolation when we rely on email, facebook, cell phones, and live streaming for our contacts and interactions with one another.
-You poured out your spirit upon the apostles; create a new spirit within us, and sent us to announce the Goods news of your love and grace.
-You are our source of living water. Cleanse us from our sin, and restore us to fullness of life in our spirit.
-You have a special place in your heart for the poor and the lowly; set free the oppressed, and shelter them from harm.
-With your healing spirit embrace those who are sick or ill. Heal those who suffer from the corona virus. Heal us. Heal our nations. Heal our world.
-Bless us love and patience so we too may be a force of healing to our family, friends, neighbors, and world.
-You offer life to all who trust in you; grant eternal life to all who have died and especially those whom we remember today. May they rest in peace.
On the morning of this new day, we come into your presence, Lord God. Are spirits gather together from our living rooms, dorm rooms, nursing home rooms, kitchen tables, and many different spaces. Your spirit mingles our lives, hearts and minds into one body of Christ. Our attention is fixed on Christ our Lord who leads in faith and enriches the love we have for you O God, and the love we have for neighbor. AMEN.
(The prayer is adapted from "Benedictine Daily Prayer-A Short Breviary" 2nd edition, copyright 2015, Liturgical Press, Minnesota, Page1411)
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of purple cloth, a cross or something from your "Lent in a Bag" Family Resource Bag or to complete your worship center.
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: Lift up your voice and call out to God.
Voice 2: We cry out, believing that God hears us.
Voice 1: Come together and wait for God.
Voice 2: We come together, trusting that God is still speaking.
Voice 1: Surely God’s presence is here with us now.
Voice 2: We wait in hope, for God’s steadfast love lifts our hearts.
Voice 1:Come, worship the Lord.
Voice 2: We celebrate the power of God that restores us.
~ written by Rev. Nancy J., and posted on her wonderings through life and other such nonsense. http://ruminari.wordpress.com/
Invocation We pray together in unison.
All Voices:
Loving God, we are yours.
We come as we are, with our cares and concerns.
We long to touch you and find healing in your embrace.
Strengthen our faith and heal our brokenness,
that we may worship you with joy. Amen.
— adapted from The Abingdon Worship Annual 2009, © 2008 Abingdon Press. Posted on the Ministry Matters website. http://www.ministrymatters.com/
Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-14
The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. 2 He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. 3 He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”
I said, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know.”
4 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! 5 This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath[a] enter you, and you will come to life. 6 I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.’”
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. 8 I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them.
9 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’” 10 So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.
11 Then he said to me: “Son of man, these bones are the people of Israel. They say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel. 13 Then you, my people, will know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves and bring you up from them. 14 I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares the Lord.’”
Children's Moment
Sermon
Invitation to the Table
Musical Offering:
As piano plays the bread and cup and placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper
Prayer of Thanksgiving: "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
***Joys & Concerns
***Because we are connecting on a public internet forum, the Revs. will not be sharing Joys and Concerns aloud. Please share these within your Care Group and watch your weekly email bulletin for a prayer list. If you do not have a Care Group Assignment by Wednesday, March 25, please let the church office know.
Morning Prayer
God of mercy and compassion, we praise you for this day on which you raised Jesus from the depths of the earth when his time of suffering was ended. Because of the love you have shown us in him, we turn to you and pray: Lord, bless your people.
-You created a world of goodness and beauty; help us to cherish the work of your hands, and make us wise in the use of your gifts.
-Jesus is our good shepherd. Through His love keep us united in faith, and restore the oneness of your people; especially during these days of isolation when we rely on email, facebook, cell phones, and live streaming for our contacts and interactions with one another.
-You poured out your spirit upon the apostles; create a new spirit within us, and sent us to announce the Goods news of your love and grace.
-You are our source of living water. Cleanse us from our sin, and restore us to fullness of life in our spirit.
-You have a special place in your heart for the poor and the lowly; set free the oppressed, and shelter them from harm.
-With your healing spirit embrace those who are sick or ill. Heal those who suffer from the corona virus. Heal us. Heal our nations. Heal our world.
-Bless us love and patience so we too may be a force of healing to our family, friends, neighbors, and world.
-You offer life to all who trust in you; grant eternal life to all who have died and especially those whom we remember today. May they rest in peace.
On the morning of this new day, we come into your presence, Lord God. Are spirits gather together from our living rooms, dorm rooms, nursing home rooms, kitchen tables, and many different spaces. Your spirit mingles our lives, hearts and minds into one body of Christ. Our attention is fixed on Christ our Lord who leads in faith and enriches the love we have for you O God, and the love we have for neighbor. AMEN.
(The prayer is adapted from "Benedictine Daily Prayer-A Short Breviary" 2nd edition, copyright 2015, Liturgical Press, Minnesota, Page1411)
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place and at one time, is now in all places and all times, for God has placed the light in us. We abide in peace! Amen.
March 22, 2020
For the time being, in response to the COVID19 virus situation, we will celebrate one weekly service online. Each week, our worship can be found on firstchristianchurchberea.com beginning at 10am. It will be archived for later replay.
March 22, 2020
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of purple cloth, a cross or something from your "Lent in a Bag" Family Resource Bag or to complete your worship center.
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: Jesus Christ, our sun divine,
Within our hearts let justice shine;
Voice 2: With light all darkness drive away
And give the world a better day.
Voice 1: This season of Lent, set apart,
Bestow on us a contrite heart,
Voice 2: And grant us even greater grace
Than we might hope you would impart.
Voice 1: May heaven and earth aloud proclaim
The good news of Christ’s great name;
Voice 2: As we restored to grace rejoice
In newness both of heart and voice. AMEN
Invocation We pray together in unison.
All Voices:
God of the living, through baptism we pass from the shadow of death to the light of the resurrection. Remain with us and give us hope that, rejoicing in the gift of the Spirit who gives life to our mortal flesh, we may be clothed with the garment of immortality, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 23
Sermon
Invitation to the Table
Musical Offering:
As piano plays the bread and cup are placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper
Prayer of Thanksgiving: "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
***Joys & Concerns
***Because we are connecting on a public internet forum, the Revs. will not be sharing Joys and Concerns aloud. Please share these within your Care Group and watch your weekly email bulletin for a prayer list. If you do not have a Care Group Assignment by Wednesday, March 25, please let the church office know.
Morning Prayer
Lord, you are the God of our salvation.
Make your ways known to us,
especially during this coming week as we have to isolate ourselves in our homes.
The corona virus puts us all on edge,
and we are out of place as we are not free to go to our schools,
our churches, our places of work,
and all the public areas we gather to meet friends,
greet neighbors and encounter visitors and strangers.
But you have brought each of us to the calm waters of prayer
where your rod and your staff comfort us.
So, we open our hearts to you and we pray with confidence
for the needs of the church and the world.
Lord have mercy:
*for the church, that it may be a source of light for the world.
Empower us with your strength
so we can announce the good news of Jesus Christ.
*for all who are in agony of mind or body,
that by our friendship and
our help your love be made present to them.
*for those in public office,
that they use their authority to safeguard
the well-being and dignity of human life.
*for all of us, called to a new life in Christ,
that our willingness to live for others bring hope to our world.
We fix our hearts on Christ who leads our faith.
Accept our prayers in the warm embrace of your compassion,
and welcome all people to the comfort of your table,
where we rejoice in your love and celebrate the inheritance you have given to us.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place
and at one time,
is now in all places and all times,
for God has placed the light in us.
We abide in peace!
Amen.
March 22, 2020
Before we begin, gather a candle or small light, your Bible, a piece of bread and a cup of juice or water. Place them at the center of a calm area in your home and gather comfortable seating for all who will join you. Place your phone, tablet or computer where you can see and hear it. You may want to connect a charger, rather than rely on battery. Add a piece of purple cloth, a cross or something from your "Lent in a Bag" Family Resource Bag or to complete your worship center.
Focus
Lighting the Christ Candles We light our candles or lights.
Voice One: In the beginning, God said,
Voice Two: "Let there be light, and there was light,"
Voice One: We light these candles because God is with us at this time and in all these places.
Call to Worship We read together responsively.
Voice 1: Jesus Christ, our sun divine,
Within our hearts let justice shine;
Voice 2: With light all darkness drive away
And give the world a better day.
Voice 1: This season of Lent, set apart,
Bestow on us a contrite heart,
Voice 2: And grant us even greater grace
Than we might hope you would impart.
Voice 1: May heaven and earth aloud proclaim
The good news of Christ’s great name;
Voice 2: As we restored to grace rejoice
In newness both of heart and voice. AMEN
Invocation We pray together in unison.
All Voices:
God of the living, through baptism we pass from the shadow of death to the light of the resurrection. Remain with us and give us hope that, rejoicing in the gift of the Spirit who gives life to our mortal flesh, we may be clothed with the garment of immortality, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 23
Sermon
Invitation to the Table
Musical Offering:
As piano plays the bread and cup are placed on the table for the Lord’s Supper.
Prayer of Communion
Words of Institution We break the bread and lift the cup as the words are spoken.
The Lord's Supper
Prayer of Thanksgiving: "The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
***Joys & Concerns
***Because we are connecting on a public internet forum, the Revs. will not be sharing Joys and Concerns aloud. Please share these within your Care Group and watch your weekly email bulletin for a prayer list. If you do not have a Care Group Assignment by Wednesday, March 25, please let the church office know.
Morning Prayer
Lord, you are the God of our salvation.
Make your ways known to us,
especially during this coming week as we have to isolate ourselves in our homes.
The corona virus puts us all on edge,
and we are out of place as we are not free to go to our schools,
our churches, our places of work,
and all the public areas we gather to meet friends,
greet neighbors and encounter visitors and strangers.
But you have brought each of us to the calm waters of prayer
where your rod and your staff comfort us.
So, we open our hearts to you and we pray with confidence
for the needs of the church and the world.
Lord have mercy:
*for the church, that it may be a source of light for the world.
Empower us with your strength
so we can announce the good news of Jesus Christ.
*for all who are in agony of mind or body,
that by our friendship and
our help your love be made present to them.
*for those in public office,
that they use their authority to safeguard
the well-being and dignity of human life.
*for all of us, called to a new life in Christ,
that our willingness to live for others bring hope to our world.
We fix our hearts on Christ who leads our faith.
Accept our prayers in the warm embrace of your compassion,
and welcome all people to the comfort of your table,
where we rejoice in your love and celebrate the inheritance you have given to us.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Challenge for Discipleship
Blessing We speak in unison.
All Voices:
The Light that was in one place
and at one time,
is now in all places and all times,
for God has placed the light in us.
We abide in peace!
Amen.
March 15, 2020
THEME:
In one short moment life was transformed when Jesus and a woman encountered each other at a well in Sychar.
Israel and God recalibrated thier relationship as Israel camped at a dry well in Relphidem.
In both stories, the practical needs of life mingled with the spiritual needs, and covenants were formed.
NOTES:
Scripture: Exodus 17:1-7 and John 4:5-42
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
"Shine, Jesus, Shine" verse 1, Number 2 in the Maranatha Muisc & Praise Hymnal
Call to Worship
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings peace and forgiveness.
P: Yet we dwell in the midst of doubt and fear.
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings hope and healing.
P: But we persist in our ways of stubbornness and greed.
L: Jesus, come among us once more and bring us your word of Peace.
P: Open our hearts, our spirits, our souls to receive your healing Word. AMEN.
Invocation
Wellspring of eternal life, we come to you this day having drunk deeply the waters of anxiety and despair. Bring to us your living water. Quench our thirsting souls, for we offer this prayer in Your Name. AMEN.
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Exodus 7:1-7 and John 4:5-42
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
"Fill My Cup Lord" all verses, number 577, Chalice Hymnal,
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
"In TImes LIke THeses" verse 1, number 577 in the Celebration Hymnal
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
"My Hope is Built" verses 1 and 2, number 537 in the Chalice Hymnal
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings peace and forgiveness.
P: Yet we dwell in the midst of doubt and fear.
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings hope and healing.
P: But we persist in our ways of stubbornness and greed.
L: Jesus, come among us once more and bring us your word of Peace.
P: Open our hearts, our spirits, our souls to receive your healing Word. AMEN.
Praise Hymn
"Shine, Jesus, Shine" verse 1, Number 2 in the Maranatha Muisc & Praise Hymnal
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Wellspring of eternal life, we come to you this day having drunk deeply the waters of anxiety and despair. Bring to us your living water. Quench our thirsting souls, for we offer this prayer in Your Name. AMEN.
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Exodus 7:1-7 and John 4:5-42
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
"Fill My Cup Lord" all verses, number 577, Chalice Hymnal,
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
"In TImes LIke THeses" verse 1, number 577 in the Celebration Hymnal
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
"My Hope is Built" verses 1 and 2, number 537 in the Chalice Hymnal
Blessing
Closing Hymn
In one short moment life was transformed when Jesus and a woman encountered each other at a well in Sychar.
Israel and God recalibrated thier relationship as Israel camped at a dry well in Relphidem.
In both stories, the practical needs of life mingled with the spiritual needs, and covenants were formed.
NOTES:
Scripture: Exodus 17:1-7 and John 4:5-42
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
"Shine, Jesus, Shine" verse 1, Number 2 in the Maranatha Muisc & Praise Hymnal
Call to Worship
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings peace and forgiveness.
P: Yet we dwell in the midst of doubt and fear.
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings hope and healing.
P: But we persist in our ways of stubbornness and greed.
L: Jesus, come among us once more and bring us your word of Peace.
P: Open our hearts, our spirits, our souls to receive your healing Word. AMEN.
Invocation
Wellspring of eternal life, we come to you this day having drunk deeply the waters of anxiety and despair. Bring to us your living water. Quench our thirsting souls, for we offer this prayer in Your Name. AMEN.
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Exodus 7:1-7 and John 4:5-42
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
"Fill My Cup Lord" all verses, number 577, Chalice Hymnal,
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
"In TImes LIke THeses" verse 1, number 577 in the Celebration Hymnal
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
"My Hope is Built" verses 1 and 2, number 537 in the Chalice Hymnal
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings peace and forgiveness.
P: Yet we dwell in the midst of doubt and fear.
L: Jesus bids us welcome. He brings hope and healing.
P: But we persist in our ways of stubbornness and greed.
L: Jesus, come among us once more and bring us your word of Peace.
P: Open our hearts, our spirits, our souls to receive your healing Word. AMEN.
Praise Hymn
"Shine, Jesus, Shine" verse 1, Number 2 in the Maranatha Muisc & Praise Hymnal
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Wellspring of eternal life, we come to you this day having drunk deeply the waters of anxiety and despair. Bring to us your living water. Quench our thirsting souls, for we offer this prayer in Your Name. AMEN.
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Exodus 7:1-7 and John 4:5-42
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
"Fill My Cup Lord" all verses, number 577, Chalice Hymnal,
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
"In TImes LIke THeses" verse 1, number 577 in the Celebration Hymnal
Praying Together
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
"My Hope is Built" verses 1 and 2, number 537 in the Chalice Hymnal
Blessing
Closing Hymn
March 8, 2020
THEME:Faith! Where do we find faith these days? Look to the Hills? Do we find it in water/baptism? Or just simply, look to Jesus?
NOTES:
Scripture:
Psalm 121
John 3:1-17
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 33, How Great Thou Art, Verses 2 and 3
Call to Worship
Leader:
Morning has broken.
Let us give thanks for the gift of life and for the presence of the Holy One among us.
People:
Let us worship God together!
Unison: Thanks be to God!
Invocation
God of the living,
through baptism we pass from the shadow of death
to the light of the resurrection.
Remain with us and give us hope
that, rejoicing in the gift of the Spirit
who gives life to our mortal flesh,
we may be clothed with the garment of immortality,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture:
Psalm 121
John 3:1-17 Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
The Celebration Hymnal (Maroon Copy), Number 444, I Love to Tell the Story, verses 2,3, and 4
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 578, I Need Thee Every Hour, verses 1 and 3
Praying Together
Let us remember Jesus:
Who believed in people and never despaired of them.
Who through all disappointment never lost heart.
Who disregarded his own comfort and convenience,
and thought first of others' needs,
and, though he suffered long, was always kind.
Who, when he was reviled, uttered no harsh word in return,
and when he suffered, did not threaten retaliation.
Who humbled himself and carried obediance to the point of death,
even death on a cross,
wherefore God has highly exalted him.
SUSAN PLEASE ADD THE FOLLOWING ON THE PRAYER SLIDE
Let us unite in prayer that Christ may dwell in our hearts.
O Christ, our only savior,
so come to dwell in us that we may go forth
with the light of your hope in our eyes,
and with your faith and love in our hearts. AMEN
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, number 431, Go, My Children, with My Blessing, All three verses
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Leader:
Morning has broken.
Let us give thanks for the gift of life and for the presence of the Holy One among us.
People:
Let us worship God together!
Unison: Thanks be to God!Praise Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 33, How Great Thou Art, Verses 2 and 3
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
God of the living,
through baptism we pass from the shadow of death
to the light of the resurrection.
Remain with us and give us hope
that, rejoicing in the gift of the Spirit
who gives life to our mortal flesh,
we may be clothed with the garment of immortality,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Psalm 121
John 3:1-17 Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
The Celebration Hymnal (Maroon Copy), Number 444, I Love to Tell the Story, verses 2,3, and 4
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 578, I Need Thee Every Hour, verses 1 and 3
Praying Together
Let us remember Jesus:
Who believed in people and never despaired of them.
Who through all disappointment never lost heart.
Who disregarded his own comfort and convenience,
and thought first of others' needs,
and, though he suffered long, was always kind.
Who, when he was reviled, uttered no harsh word in return,
and when he suffered, did not threaten retaliation.
Who humbled himself and carried obediance to the point of death,
even death on a cross,
wherefore God has highly exalted him.
SUSAN PLEASE ADD THE FOLLOWING ON THE PRAYER SLIDE
Let us unite in prayer that Christ may dwell in our hearts.
O Christ, our only savior,
so come to dwell in us that we may go forth
with the light of your hope in our eyes,
and with your faith and love in our hearts. AMEN
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, number 431, Go, My Children, with My Blessing, All three verses
Blessing
Closing Hymn
NOTES:
Scripture:
Psalm 121
John 3:1-17
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 33, How Great Thou Art, Verses 2 and 3
Call to Worship
Leader:
Morning has broken.
Let us give thanks for the gift of life and for the presence of the Holy One among us.
People:
Let us worship God together!
Unison: Thanks be to God!
Invocation
God of the living,
through baptism we pass from the shadow of death
to the light of the resurrection.
Remain with us and give us hope
that, rejoicing in the gift of the Spirit
who gives life to our mortal flesh,
we may be clothed with the garment of immortality,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture:
Psalm 121
John 3:1-17 Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
The Celebration Hymnal (Maroon Copy), Number 444, I Love to Tell the Story, verses 2,3, and 4
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 578, I Need Thee Every Hour, verses 1 and 3
Praying Together
Let us remember Jesus:
Who believed in people and never despaired of them.
Who through all disappointment never lost heart.
Who disregarded his own comfort and convenience,
and thought first of others' needs,
and, though he suffered long, was always kind.
Who, when he was reviled, uttered no harsh word in return,
and when he suffered, did not threaten retaliation.
Who humbled himself and carried obediance to the point of death,
even death on a cross,
wherefore God has highly exalted him.
SUSAN PLEASE ADD THE FOLLOWING ON THE PRAYER SLIDE
Let us unite in prayer that Christ may dwell in our hearts.
O Christ, our only savior,
so come to dwell in us that we may go forth
with the light of your hope in our eyes,
and with your faith and love in our hearts. AMEN
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, number 431, Go, My Children, with My Blessing, All three verses
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Leader:
Morning has broken.
Let us give thanks for the gift of life and for the presence of the Holy One among us.
People:
Let us worship God together!
Unison: Thanks be to God!Praise Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 33, How Great Thou Art, Verses 2 and 3
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
God of the living,
through baptism we pass from the shadow of death
to the light of the resurrection.
Remain with us and give us hope
that, rejoicing in the gift of the Spirit
who gives life to our mortal flesh,
we may be clothed with the garment of immortality,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Psalm 121
John 3:1-17 Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn
The Celebration Hymnal (Maroon Copy), Number 444, I Love to Tell the Story, verses 2,3, and 4
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, Number 578, I Need Thee Every Hour, verses 1 and 3
Praying Together
Let us remember Jesus:
Who believed in people and never despaired of them.
Who through all disappointment never lost heart.
Who disregarded his own comfort and convenience,
and thought first of others' needs,
and, though he suffered long, was always kind.
Who, when he was reviled, uttered no harsh word in return,
and when he suffered, did not threaten retaliation.
Who humbled himself and carried obediance to the point of death,
even death on a cross,
wherefore God has highly exalted him.
SUSAN PLEASE ADD THE FOLLOWING ON THE PRAYER SLIDE
Let us unite in prayer that Christ may dwell in our hearts.
O Christ, our only savior,
so come to dwell in us that we may go forth
with the light of your hope in our eyes,
and with your faith and love in our hearts. AMEN
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn
Chalice Hymnal, number 431, Go, My Children, with My Blessing, All three verses
Blessing
Closing Hymn
March 1, 2020
THEME: Spring to Life - Lent as a Garden of Spiritual Growth, Week 1
NOTES:As we begin our Lenten journey with a gardening metaphor in mind as our master image, one particular garden springs to mind. Remember the Garden of Eden? The decision to listen to God and obey, or to hear God and knowingly disobey....that makes all the difference. As we ponder the garden of our spiritual lives together this Lent, it's time to get the soil ready in our garden plot. What will we clear from the ground before we start digging? What will we need to remove? As we build up the soil, what is missing? What do we need to add? What may we be tempted to add that we don't really need? These questions are as crucial to the growth of our relationship with God as they are to preparing the ground to grow a crop. As children of God and followers of Christ, we have access to forgiveness - the process by which the unhealthy and unholy choices we have made can be transformed, when we release them and let go of their often tantalizing by-products. We turn today to Jesus' own response to temptation and the Psalmist's instruction on the process of forgiveness to enlighten our own faith.
Scripture: Psalm 32 & Matthew 4:1-11
Psalm 32
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven,
whose sin is covered.
2 Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity,
and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
3 While I kept silence, my body wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;
my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah
5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you,
and I did not hide my iniquity;
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”
and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
6 Therefore let all who are faithful
offer prayer to you; at a time of distress,
the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
7 You are a hiding place for me;
you preserve me from trouble;
you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah
8 I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go;
I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
9 Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding,
whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.
10 Many are the torments of the wicked,
but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
11 Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous,
and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Matthew 4:1-11
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. 3 The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” 4 But he answered, “It is written, ‘One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, 6 saying to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written,
‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.’”
7 Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor; 9 and he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! for it is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’”
11 Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him.
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn "This is the Day" Red Chalice Hymnal, number 286
Call to Worship
Leader: After he was baptized by John, Jesus went by himself to the wilderness where he was tempted.
People: Forty days in the desert, Jesus was tempted
to become self-serving, spectacular, and powerful.
Leader: Today, we begin to journey with Jesus through the season of Lent,
which brings us to face some of our own weaknesses and temptations.
People: Let us worship God and walk the journey together,
seeking the spirit as our guide and companion along the way.
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
Invocation
God, you know our hearts. You have knitted our inmost being and you know our deepest desires, fears and worries. Help us to journey during this Lenten season into a new awareness of your presence in our lives. Save us from our own temptations, so that we may more freely follow you.
Amen
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn, "As the Deer" Celebration Hymnal, Page 548, All THree Verses
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn, "Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley" Red Chalice Hymnal Number 211, all three verses.
Praying Together
Loving Lord,
at the beginning of this Lenten season,
we are met with the challenge of handing over
every bit of our lives that do not come from You.
To rid ourselves of what clutters our lives,
and all that distracts us from the simple truth
of Your love for us.
Your prophets have called us to change the way we worship—
to make internal sacrifices instead of external ones.
To seek justice, and love kindness,
and walk humbly with You
each and every one of our days.
As we choose something symbolic to give up or take on during this Lenten season,
empower us all to let go of living in ways that disconnect us from You,
for every one of our steps is like a circle around Your temple.
Perhaps this Lent, we can give up our way
and give ourselves to Your way for us.
So, lead and guide us on this Lenten way.
May we walk with Jesus toward the hill just outside of Jerusalem.
May we like Him take up our cross and follow,
spending each moment of our lives living responsively to You,
just as Christ Himself did.
For that is the faithful way. Amen.
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn, "Surely Goodness and Mercy, Celebration Hymnal, Page number 691 verses 2 and 3
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Leader: After he was baptized by John, Jesus went by himself to the wilderness where he was tempted.
People: Forty days in the desert, Jesus was tempted
to become self-serving, spectacular, and powerful.
Leader: Today, we begin to journey with Jesus through the season of Lent,
which brings us to face some of our own weaknesses and temptations.
People: Let us worship God and walk the journey together,
seeking the spirit as our guide and companion along the way.
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
Praise Hymn "This is the Day" Red Chalice Hymnal, number 286
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
God, you know our hearts. You have knitted our inmost being and you know our deepest desires, fears and worries. Help us to journey during this Lenten season into a new awareness of your presence in our lives. Save us from our own temptations, so that we may more freely follow you.
Amen
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn, "As the Deer" Celebration Hymnal, Page 548, All THree Verses
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn, "Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley" Red Chalice Hymnal Number 211, all three verses.
Praying Together
Loving Lord,
at the beginning of this Lenten season,
we are met with the challenge of handing over
every bit of our lives that do not come from You.
To rid ourselves of what clutters our lives,
and all that distracts us from the simple truth
of Your love for us.
Your prophets have called us to change the way we worship—
to make internal sacrifices instead of external ones.
To seek justice, and love kindness,
and walk humbly with You
each and every one of our days.
As we choose something symbolic to give up or take on during this Lenten season,empower us all to let go of living in ways that disconnect us from You,
for every one of our steps is like a circle around Your temple.
Perhaps this Lent, we can give up our way
and give ourselves to Your way for us.
So, lead and guide us on this Lenten way.
May we walk with Jesus toward the hill just outside of Jerusalem.
May we like Him take up our cross and follow,
spending each moment of our lives living responsively to You,
just as Christ Himself did.
For that is the faithful way. Amen.
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn, "Surely Goodness and Mercy, Celebration Hymnal, Page number 691 verses 2 and 3
Blessing
Closing Hymn
NOTES:As we begin our Lenten journey with a gardening metaphor in mind as our master image, one particular garden springs to mind. Remember the Garden of Eden? The decision to listen to God and obey, or to hear God and knowingly disobey....that makes all the difference. As we ponder the garden of our spiritual lives together this Lent, it's time to get the soil ready in our garden plot. What will we clear from the ground before we start digging? What will we need to remove? As we build up the soil, what is missing? What do we need to add? What may we be tempted to add that we don't really need? These questions are as crucial to the growth of our relationship with God as they are to preparing the ground to grow a crop. As children of God and followers of Christ, we have access to forgiveness - the process by which the unhealthy and unholy choices we have made can be transformed, when we release them and let go of their often tantalizing by-products. We turn today to Jesus' own response to temptation and the Psalmist's instruction on the process of forgiveness to enlighten our own faith.
Scripture: Psalm 32 & Matthew 4:1-11
Psalm 32
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven,
whose sin is covered.
2 Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity,
and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
3 While I kept silence, my body wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;
my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah
5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you,
and I did not hide my iniquity;
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”
and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
6 Therefore let all who are faithful
offer prayer to you; at a time of distress,
the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
7 You are a hiding place for me;
you preserve me from trouble;
you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah
8 I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go;
I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
9 Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding,
whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.
10 Many are the torments of the wicked,
but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
11 Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous,
and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Matthew 4:1-11
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. 3 The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” 4 But he answered, “It is written, ‘One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, 6 saying to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written,
‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.’”
7 Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor; 9 and he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! for it is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’”
11 Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him.
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn "This is the Day" Red Chalice Hymnal, number 286
Call to Worship
Leader: After he was baptized by John, Jesus went by himself to the wilderness where he was tempted.
People: Forty days in the desert, Jesus was tempted
to become self-serving, spectacular, and powerful.
Leader: Today, we begin to journey with Jesus through the season of Lent,
which brings us to face some of our own weaknesses and temptations.
People: Let us worship God and walk the journey together,
seeking the spirit as our guide and companion along the way.
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
Invocation
God, you know our hearts. You have knitted our inmost being and you know our deepest desires, fears and worries. Help us to journey during this Lenten season into a new awareness of your presence in our lives. Save us from our own temptations, so that we may more freely follow you.
Amen
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn, "As the Deer" Celebration Hymnal, Page 548, All THree Verses
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn, "Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley" Red Chalice Hymnal Number 211, all three verses.
Praying Together
Loving Lord,
at the beginning of this Lenten season,
we are met with the challenge of handing over
every bit of our lives that do not come from You.
To rid ourselves of what clutters our lives,
and all that distracts us from the simple truth
of Your love for us.
Your prophets have called us to change the way we worship—
to make internal sacrifices instead of external ones.
To seek justice, and love kindness,
and walk humbly with You
each and every one of our days.
As we choose something symbolic to give up or take on during this Lenten season,
empower us all to let go of living in ways that disconnect us from You,
for every one of our steps is like a circle around Your temple.
Perhaps this Lent, we can give up our way
and give ourselves to Your way for us.
So, lead and guide us on this Lenten way.
May we walk with Jesus toward the hill just outside of Jerusalem.
May we like Him take up our cross and follow,
spending each moment of our lives living responsively to You,
just as Christ Himself did.
For that is the faithful way. Amen.
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn, "Surely Goodness and Mercy, Celebration Hymnal, Page number 691 verses 2 and 3
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Leader: After he was baptized by John, Jesus went by himself to the wilderness where he was tempted.
People: Forty days in the desert, Jesus was tempted
to become self-serving, spectacular, and powerful.
Leader: Today, we begin to journey with Jesus through the season of Lent,
which brings us to face some of our own weaknesses and temptations.
People: Let us worship God and walk the journey together,
seeking the spirit as our guide and companion along the way.
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
Praise Hymn "This is the Day" Red Chalice Hymnal, number 286
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
God, you know our hearts. You have knitted our inmost being and you know our deepest desires, fears and worries. Help us to journey during this Lenten season into a new awareness of your presence in our lives. Save us from our own temptations, so that we may more freely follow you.
Amen
— copyright © Chris Heckert, and posted on his website, Heckert Resources...which doesn't seem to exist anymore. His new blog (I think!) is at Chris Heckert Blog http://chrisheckertblog.com/
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn, "As the Deer" Celebration Hymnal, Page 548, All THree Verses
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn, "Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley" Red Chalice Hymnal Number 211, all three verses.
Praying Together
Loving Lord,
at the beginning of this Lenten season,
we are met with the challenge of handing over
every bit of our lives that do not come from You.
To rid ourselves of what clutters our lives,
and all that distracts us from the simple truth
of Your love for us.
Your prophets have called us to change the way we worship—
to make internal sacrifices instead of external ones.
To seek justice, and love kindness,
and walk humbly with You
each and every one of our days.
As we choose something symbolic to give up or take on during this Lenten season,empower us all to let go of living in ways that disconnect us from You,
for every one of our steps is like a circle around Your temple.
Perhaps this Lent, we can give up our way
and give ourselves to Your way for us.
So, lead and guide us on this Lenten way.
May we walk with Jesus toward the hill just outside of Jerusalem.
May we like Him take up our cross and follow,
spending each moment of our lives living responsively to You,
just as Christ Himself did.
For that is the faithful way. Amen.
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn, "Surely Goodness and Mercy, Celebration Hymnal, Page number 691 verses 2 and 3
Blessing
Closing Hymn
February 23, 2020
THEME: Revelation and Mystery on a Firm Foundation
NOTES:As the church worldwide observes Transfiguration Sunday, the familiar but still baffling story of a mountaintop experience underlies our reading of the Pauline text from I Corinthians. Both stories are about authority. Power struggles are often the outward symptom of fear and insecurity. As we come together to follow God's call, how can we be sure we are on the right path? What if we disagree and get going different directions like the church at Corinth? What if the path God is leading us on just seems unnecessarily complicated and difficult, like the disciples perceived Jesus' claims that his Messiahship would come through a path of suffering? What if we just don't understand, like the disciples and the Corinthians before us? The answer is the same. "This is my beloved son. LISTEN to him." "...that foundation is Jesus Christ....and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God." How do we, in our moment of revelation and mystery, LISTEN and BELONG to Christ?
Scripture: I Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23 & Mark 9:2-9
I Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23
According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it. Each builder must choose with care how to build on it. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.
16 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?[a] 17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
18 Do not deceive yourselves. If you think that you are wise in this age, you should become fools so that you may become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written,
“He catches the wise in their craftiness,”
20 and again,
“The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”
21 So let no one boast about human leaders. For all things are yours, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all belong to you, 23 and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.
Mark 9:2-9
2 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one[a] on earth could bleach them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. 5 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings,[b] one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 He did not know what to say, for they were terrified. 7 Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the Beloved;[c] listen to him!” 8 Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn#78 Celebration hymnal "I Love You, Lord"
Call to Worship
Leader: Sometimes God shows up in ways we cannot deny,
People: In a place we can go, a light we can see, a voice we can hear, a stone we can touch
Leader: Always God shows up somehow.
People: So we have shown up, here, now
Leader: Let us seek God's presence in worship and be found by God together
People: May God give us eyes to see.
~ Inspired by a piece written by Joanna Harader and posted on Spacious Faith. https://spaciousfaith.com/
Invocation
Lord Jesus,
lead us to that mountain place
of stronger light and sure sound
where we may see your glory.
Light and truth, bright as blinding snow,
whom Peter, James, and John saw,
“Bring us to your holy mountain,
to your dwelling place.” Amen.
~ written by Victor Hoagland, and posted on Victor’s Place. http://vhoagland.wordpress.com/
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn#559 " All the Way My Savior Leads Me" (verse 1)
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn#560" Leaning on the Everlasting Arms"( verse 1)
Praying Together
Truth-telling Saviour,
You gather your people into one Body;
gathering us beyond the divisions we create
by our fears that it is all up to us
to make our lives count;
divisions we create in our anxiety
to make the future turn out right.
Crucified and risen Saviour,
You are among us,
offering us your truth that sets us free;
and your grace that shapes a good future for all;
and your love that fills our lives and lifts us up.
These gifts draw us ever deeper into
your creative presence;
these gifts that form us into a people
who carry your life-giving future in our world.
Open our eyes to their liberating truth.
Open our hearts to receive them.
By your Holy Spirit,
form in us a passion for your purposes —
a passion that overcomes our self-centredness;
a passion that makes us large in generosity.
Then, grant us your Spirit of wisdom,
that we may see the work you are doing
and may join in with glad and grateful hearts
and be the blessing you have summoned us to be.
We ask in the name of Jesus
whose death and resurrection
has made us people of hope.
~ written by Christine Jerrett and posted on Christine Jerrett. https://christinejerrett.wordpress.com/
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn#552 "Standing on the Promises" (verse 1)
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Leader: Sometimes God shows up in ways we cannot deny,
People: In a place we can go, a light we can see, a voice we can hear, a stone we can touch
Leader: Always God shows up somehow.
People: So we have shown up, here, now
Leader: Let us seek God's presence in worship and be found by God together
People: May God give us eyes to see.
~ Inspired by a piece written by Joanna Harader and posted on Spacious Faith. https://spaciousfaith.com/
Praise Hymn# 224 "We Have Come into His House" (verse 1) and #225 "Come Christians Join to Sing" (verse 1)
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Lord Jesus,
lead us to that mountain place
of stronger light and sure sound
where we may see your glory.
Light and truth, bright as blinding snow,
whom Peter, James, and John saw,
“Bring us to your holy mountain,
to your dwelling place.” Amen.
~ written by Victor Hoagland, and posted on Victor’s Place. http://vhoagland.wordpress.com/
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn#559 " All the Way My Savior Leads Me" (verse 1)
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn#560" Leaning on the Everlasting Arms"( verse 1)
Praying Together
Truth-telling Saviour,
You gather your people into one Body;
gathering us beyond the divisions we create
by our fears that it is all up to us
to make our lives count;
divisions we create in our anxiety
to make the future turn out right.
Crucified and risen Saviour,
You are among us,
offering us your truth that sets us free;
and your grace that shapes a good future for all;
and your love that fills our lives and lifts us up.
These gifts draw us ever deeper into
your creative presence;
these gifts that form us into a people
who carry your life-giving future in our world.
Open our eyes to their liberating truth.
Open our hearts to receive them.
By your Holy Spirit,
form in us a passion for your purposes —
a passion that overcomes our self-centredness;
a passion that makes us large in generosity.
Then, grant us your Spirit of wisdom,
that we may see the work you are doing
and may join in with glad and grateful hearts
and be the blessing you have summoned us to be.
We ask in the name of Jesus
whose death and resurrection
has made us people of hope.
~ written by Christine Jerrett and posted on Christine Jerrett. https://christinejerrett.wordpress.com/
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn#552 "Standing on the Promises" (verse 1)
Blessing
Closing Hymn
NOTES:As the church worldwide observes Transfiguration Sunday, the familiar but still baffling story of a mountaintop experience underlies our reading of the Pauline text from I Corinthians. Both stories are about authority. Power struggles are often the outward symptom of fear and insecurity. As we come together to follow God's call, how can we be sure we are on the right path? What if we disagree and get going different directions like the church at Corinth? What if the path God is leading us on just seems unnecessarily complicated and difficult, like the disciples perceived Jesus' claims that his Messiahship would come through a path of suffering? What if we just don't understand, like the disciples and the Corinthians before us? The answer is the same. "This is my beloved son. LISTEN to him." "...that foundation is Jesus Christ....and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God." How do we, in our moment of revelation and mystery, LISTEN and BELONG to Christ?
Scripture: I Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23 & Mark 9:2-9
I Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23
According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it. Each builder must choose with care how to build on it. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ.
16 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?[a] 17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
18 Do not deceive yourselves. If you think that you are wise in this age, you should become fools so that you may become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written,
“He catches the wise in their craftiness,”
20 and again,
“The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”
21 So let no one boast about human leaders. For all things are yours, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all belong to you, 23 and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.
Mark 9:2-9
2 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one[a] on earth could bleach them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. 5 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings,[b] one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 He did not know what to say, for they were terrified. 7 Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the Beloved;[c] listen to him!” 8 Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
8:30 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Lighting the Christ Candles
Praise Hymn#78 Celebration hymnal "I Love You, Lord"
Call to Worship
Leader: Sometimes God shows up in ways we cannot deny,
People: In a place we can go, a light we can see, a voice we can hear, a stone we can touch
Leader: Always God shows up somehow.
People: So we have shown up, here, now
Leader: Let us seek God's presence in worship and be found by God together
People: May God give us eyes to see.
~ Inspired by a piece written by Joanna Harader and posted on Spacious Faith. https://spaciousfaith.com/
Invocation
Lord Jesus,
lead us to that mountain place
of stronger light and sure sound
where we may see your glory.
Light and truth, bright as blinding snow,
whom Peter, James, and John saw,
“Bring us to your holy mountain,
to your dwelling place.” Amen.
~ written by Victor Hoagland, and posted on Victor’s Place. http://vhoagland.wordpress.com/
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn#559 " All the Way My Savior Leads Me" (verse 1)
Elder's Prayer
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn#560" Leaning on the Everlasting Arms"( verse 1)
Praying Together
Truth-telling Saviour,
You gather your people into one Body;
gathering us beyond the divisions we create
by our fears that it is all up to us
to make our lives count;
divisions we create in our anxiety
to make the future turn out right.
Crucified and risen Saviour,
You are among us,
offering us your truth that sets us free;
and your grace that shapes a good future for all;
and your love that fills our lives and lifts us up.
These gifts draw us ever deeper into
your creative presence;
these gifts that form us into a people
who carry your life-giving future in our world.
Open our eyes to their liberating truth.
Open our hearts to receive them.
By your Holy Spirit,
form in us a passion for your purposes —
a passion that overcomes our self-centredness;
a passion that makes us large in generosity.
Then, grant us your Spirit of wisdom,
that we may see the work you are doing
and may join in with glad and grateful hearts
and be the blessing you have summoned us to be.
We ask in the name of Jesus
whose death and resurrection
has made us people of hope.
~ written by Christine Jerrett and posted on Christine Jerrett. https://christinejerrett.wordpress.com/
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn#552 "Standing on the Promises" (verse 1)
Blessing
10:40 am Order of Service
We Gather in God's Presence
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship
Leader: Sometimes God shows up in ways we cannot deny,
People: In a place we can go, a light we can see, a voice we can hear, a stone we can touch
Leader: Always God shows up somehow.
People: So we have shown up, here, now
Leader: Let us seek God's presence in worship and be found by God together
People: May God give us eyes to see.
~ Inspired by a piece written by Joanna Harader and posted on Spacious Faith. https://spaciousfaith.com/
Praise Hymn# 224 "We Have Come into His House" (verse 1) and #225 "Come Christians Join to Sing" (verse 1)
Lighting of the Candles
Invocation
Lord Jesus,
lead us to that mountain place
of stronger light and sure sound
where we may see your glory.
Light and truth, bright as blinding snow,
whom Peter, James, and John saw,
“Bring us to your holy mountain,
to your dwelling place.” Amen.
~ written by Victor Hoagland, and posted on Victor’s Place. http://vhoagland.wordpress.com/
Passing of the Peace
Children's Song
We Contemplate God's Word
Scripture
Sermon
We Come to the Lord's Table
Invitation to the Table
Communion Hymn#559 " All the Way My Savior Leads Me" (verse 1)
Words of Institution
The Lord's Supper with instrumental meditation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We Pray Together
Joys & Concerns
Prayer Hymn#560" Leaning on the Everlasting Arms"( verse 1)
Praying Together
Truth-telling Saviour,
You gather your people into one Body;
gathering us beyond the divisions we create
by our fears that it is all up to us
to make our lives count;
divisions we create in our anxiety
to make the future turn out right.
Crucified and risen Saviour,
You are among us,
offering us your truth that sets us free;
and your grace that shapes a good future for all;
and your love that fills our lives and lifts us up.
These gifts draw us ever deeper into
your creative presence;
these gifts that form us into a people
who carry your life-giving future in our world.
Open our eyes to their liberating truth.
Open our hearts to receive them.
By your Holy Spirit,
form in us a passion for your purposes —
a passion that overcomes our self-centredness;
a passion that makes us large in generosity.
Then, grant us your Spirit of wisdom,
that we may see the work you are doing
and may join in with glad and grateful hearts
and be the blessing you have summoned us to be.
We ask in the name of Jesus
whose death and resurrection
has made us people of hope.
~ written by Christine Jerrett and posted on Christine Jerrett. https://christinejerrett.wordpress.com/
We Go Forth into the World
Challenge for Discipleship
Discipleship Hymn#552 "Standing on the Promises" (verse 1)
Blessing
Closing Hymn
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