CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, it is so very good to be here together in this place. We confess that we need to be surrounded by a community of faith, for in the company of the faithful our faith is not tested, but strengthened, compounded, made ever stronger. In community we are moved by the truth of the cross and whether we are aware of it or not our hearts are strangely warmed. Could it be, most gracious one, that when we dare to stand at the foot of the cross looking into the eyes of the Christ your revelation for us is revealed. Certainly, you would cause us to see in Jesus’ eyes that he has chosen us, not we him. This is what Paul discovered and he was changed forever. Make us instruments of your blessings and goodwill in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
When I complained about my restaurant meal not coming on time, someone told me about people who had no food at all. When I complained about the demands and expectations of my job, someone told about a person who couldn’t get one. When I complained about the church and its bureaucracy, someone told me about a place where speaking the very word “church” could get you killed. When I complained that the sanctuary was not cool enough in the summer or warm enough in the winter, someone told me about people who could only worship God underground.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Pour out your glorious Spirit of Blessing upon these our offerings most loving and gracious Lord. May every ministry they support, every program they nurture, every comfort they provide glorify your name. We are indebted to you for our every breath and blessing, however we give not because of our indebtedness, but because of our gratefulness. We offer our thanks in the name of the Christ. Amen.
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