An Affirmation of Faith for Lent
We believe in God the creator of heaven and earth, the giver of light and truth, life and breath.
We believe that nothing can separate us from the grace, love and mercy of God who never hesitates to forgive the repentant heart.
We believe in Jesus Christ, God in human vesture, who desired to be in this life with us, reaching out to love us into new life.
We believe that he took upon himself our sin and regret carrying these to the cross, where he gave himself unto eternity for our sake. This was his ultimate gift to us.
We believe that his death was not the end, and that he will come again one day.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, who speaks a fiery, passionate truth to all people, in every
language. Our hearts are warmed and we become the living proof of God’s transforming
presence.
We believe that we are the church, the body of Christ, called to serve and to make a difference in God’s world.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous God, as we continue our journey through Lent, following in the footsteps of the Beloved One, we are wearied by the resistance of those who cannot or will not open their ears to hear the good news. Through the scriptures we have witnessed Jesus’ efforts to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind; to set at liberty those who are oppressed and announce that the year of your favor has arrived. We confess how easy it is to judge others whose values and experiences are not like ours. It can be troubling to see ourselves in the stories of Jesus; it is like looking into a mirror. We are not always pleased with what we see realizing, in that moment, that we are all sinners who fall short of your glory. Forgive us, Lord, when we presume our own goodness to the detriment of another. Hear our prayer as offered in the name of the Christ. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Hand lotions in our day are given names like “Loving Care,” “Extra Healing Moisturizing,” “Ultra Healing Moisturizing,” restores, soothes, rescues, softens, nourishes, protects, heals, is anti –aging, rich, pleasurable, maximum strength, leaves skin feeling touchably soft, works instantly, is therapeutic, and is dermatologist tested. Please know that your tithes and offerings to the church restore, rescue, soothe, heal, nourish and protect. They give strength, work instantly, and are therapeutic in more ways than you can imagine. And feeling good about giving will make you touchably soft. I knew that part was important to you.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless these our gifts, offered gladly and with grateful hearts. We pray that they will bring comfort, healing, strength, nourishment and protection to all those in need. Let what we are fortunate enough to share, shine your loving light into someone’s darkness and bring new life to those who have known only despair. Let our gifts and our work, our prayers and our commitment be a testament to our faith and your presence in lives. In the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
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