*AN AFFIRMATION OF FAITH GLEANED FROM ROMANS 10:5-15
We believe, from the very beginning, God poured out goodness, mercy
and love on every living thing, and God continues to do so today.
God’s word is ever near us, on our lips and in our hearts,
for God has written his truth upon our hearts.
We believe with our hearts and confess with our lips that Jesus is Lord.
We have no doubt that God raised Jesus from the dead.
We are not ashamed to speak for this confession is our salvation.
In Christ there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile, male or female,
daunted or undaunted, wealthy or poor, oppressed or free. God’s generosity is for all people.
And all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be redeemed.
We believe in the Holy Spirit poured out upon us from birth to death, guiding us through life’s maze of decisions and choices.
We believe in the Church, Christ’s body in the world.
As members of the body we are called to be and to bring the good news
to all who have ears to hear and hearts to receive.
For faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ.
Thanks be to God!
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
We praise you O God! We praise your name Loving Abba Father, Dearest Son and Wondrous Holy Spirit. We give thanks to you, our most gracious and merciful God, seeking only to please you in word and deed. We confess how very often the world seems to encroach on our best intentions to follow in the Way. Life in this world, in this society, particularly today is by no means simple and, when its complexities threaten to overwhelm us, we confess how easy it is to put our faith on hold or on the back burner where it gets less attention. Help us to overcome the kind of worldly thinking that calcifies or cools faith. Teach us how to embrace non-conformity in our discipleship. We pray in the name of Jesus who, turned the world upside down. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
When I was a little girl society’s stand-outs —that is those who did not conform to current societal modes of fashion, were call non-conformists. They were Beatniks, like Maynard G. Krebs on Dobie Gillis. But even I took note that the Beatniks all sort of dressed alike, so you’d know who was a Beatnik and who wasn’t. Later on, Hippies also followed a uniform dress code as did and do Preppies to this day. Because they conform in their fashion statements, they are easily identifiable. Non-conformist historically was the name applied to Protestant Christians who would not "conform" to the governance and usages of the established Church of England. Also called dissenters– like the Puritans who violated the Act of Uniformity in 1559 through their separatist practices — by the 19th century the list of religious non-conformists included Presbyterians, Congregationalists, Baptists and Methodists. Wow, perhaps we ought to give thanks for those practicing non-conformists; without them we might not be here today.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
August 17, 2014 "WHAT'S THAT MEAN?"
AN AFFIRMATION OF FAITH GLEANED FROM ROMANS 10:5-15
We believe, from the very beginning, God poured out goodness, mercy
and love on every living thing, and God continues to do so today.
God’s word is ever near us, on our lips and in our hearts,
for God has written his truth upon our hearts.
We believe with our hearts and confess with our lips that Jesus is Lord.
We have no doubt that God raised Jesus from the dead.
We are not ashamed to speak for this confession is our salvation.
In Christ there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile, male or female,
daunted or undaunted, wealthy or poor, oppressed or free. God’s generosity is for all people.
And all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be redeemed.
We believe in the Holy Spirit poured out upon us from birth to death, guiding us through life’s maze of decisions and choices.
We believe in the Church, Christ’s body in the world.
As members of the body we are called to be and to bring the good news
to all who have ears to hear and hearts to receive.
For faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ.
Thanks be to God!
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Merciful God, seated here in this sanctuary, we breathe a sigh of relief and are able to let down our shoulders, for a little while. Having shared the joys that make our hearts glad and the concerns that weigh heavily in our thoughts, we are ready to move on, ready to listen and to explore what your word will reveal to us. Yes, it’s possible for each one of us to grasp different elements of the story or letter being read, but every morsel of your word is tasty and is meant to nourish our hungry spirits. Today we hope to have a better understanding of what it means to confess with our lips and believe in our hearts, to embrace to the fullest our salvation in Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Marketing —also known as branding —fascinates me. At its best it is creative and intriguing. At it’s worst it is manipulative and coarse. When watching TV I have been intrigued by David E. Kelley Production’s sign-off logo of the old lady sitting in a rocking chair with her TV remote in hand. As she clicks the remote to turn off the television, the words David E. Kelley Productions fly out of the television and knock over the rocking chair. You hear the old lady cry out “You Stinkah!” Far Field Production’s sign-off logo features a boy, arm outstretched, pointing toward the single tree on the grassy knoll above which appear the words “Far Field Productions. “The boy says: “What’s that mean?” So you remember the last time you asked that? Here is something to ponder. The many writers of the Bible invested their hearts and minds in exploring meaning, asking the question of every life lesson and experience: “What’s that mean?” I think God welcomes the question so let us strive to make the church a safe place to ask it.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, the gifts we offer affirm our faith and trust in your will and way for us. Our desire is to serve you, undaunted in our efforts to bring glory to your name, help to those in need and care to the earth. In the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
We believe, from the very beginning, God poured out goodness, mercy
and love on every living thing, and God continues to do so today.
God’s word is ever near us, on our lips and in our hearts,
for God has written his truth upon our hearts.
We believe with our hearts and confess with our lips that Jesus is Lord.
We have no doubt that God raised Jesus from the dead.
We are not ashamed to speak for this confession is our salvation.
In Christ there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile, male or female,
daunted or undaunted, wealthy or poor, oppressed or free. God’s generosity is for all people.
And all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be redeemed.
We believe in the Holy Spirit poured out upon us from birth to death, guiding us through life’s maze of decisions and choices.
We believe in the Church, Christ’s body in the world.
As members of the body we are called to be and to bring the good news
to all who have ears to hear and hearts to receive.
For faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ.
Thanks be to God!
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Merciful God, seated here in this sanctuary, we breathe a sigh of relief and are able to let down our shoulders, for a little while. Having shared the joys that make our hearts glad and the concerns that weigh heavily in our thoughts, we are ready to move on, ready to listen and to explore what your word will reveal to us. Yes, it’s possible for each one of us to grasp different elements of the story or letter being read, but every morsel of your word is tasty and is meant to nourish our hungry spirits. Today we hope to have a better understanding of what it means to confess with our lips and believe in our hearts, to embrace to the fullest our salvation in Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Marketing —also known as branding —fascinates me. At its best it is creative and intriguing. At it’s worst it is manipulative and coarse. When watching TV I have been intrigued by David E. Kelley Production’s sign-off logo of the old lady sitting in a rocking chair with her TV remote in hand. As she clicks the remote to turn off the television, the words David E. Kelley Productions fly out of the television and knock over the rocking chair. You hear the old lady cry out “You Stinkah!” Far Field Production’s sign-off logo features a boy, arm outstretched, pointing toward the single tree on the grassy knoll above which appear the words “Far Field Productions. “The boy says: “What’s that mean?” So you remember the last time you asked that? Here is something to ponder. The many writers of the Bible invested their hearts and minds in exploring meaning, asking the question of every life lesson and experience: “What’s that mean?” I think God welcomes the question so let us strive to make the church a safe place to ask it.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, the gifts we offer affirm our faith and trust in your will and way for us. Our desire is to serve you, undaunted in our efforts to bring glory to your name, help to those in need and care to the earth. In the name of the Christ, we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
August 3, 2014 "AND THE LEFTOVERS"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving Lord, Sovereign of the Universe, we are humbled in your presence, astounded always by your compassion for your children from every corner of the earth. We confess our confusion and disappointment with the world’s unwillingness or inability to mimic your compassionate, merciful ways. And then we realize that our expectations of the world are unrealistic. Teach us to step out of the trap of disappointed expectations. Help us train up our spirits; muscling-up our faith and trust, truly CROSS-FITTING ourselves for the work of the kingdom. We work as the hands and feet of the Christ offering this prayer in his name. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Did you eat leftovers as a child? Leftovers are defined as the uneaten edible portions of a meal left after the meal is over. In my house, the leftovers of a Thanksgiving dinner were consumed for days on end when I was growing up. When your mom made too much tuna casserole, or cream chipped beef, or hot dogs and beans, did you dread eating them again for dinner or did you look forward to the repeat meal? The Greek word translated as leftovers is perisseuvvw (perisseúo). It means to exceed, to be over, to be at hand in abundance. In scripture the leftovers are a really good thing. I think we have a tendency to consider our small change — sort of like money leftovers. Why not see it as a sign of abundance as well and put those leftovers to work for the kingdom of God.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we take seriously our role as partners with you in sharing your message of love and grace for all of humanity. Our tithes and offerings are just one way by which we affirm our faith and trust in you. It is in giving of what we have that we ready our hearts, bodies and minds to follow your will. May these gifts bring glory to your name, moving us ever closer to the fulfillment of your kingdom upon the earth. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Wondrous and Loving Lord, Sovereign of the Universe, we are humbled in your presence, astounded always by your compassion for your children from every corner of the earth. We confess our confusion and disappointment with the world’s unwillingness or inability to mimic your compassionate, merciful ways. And then we realize that our expectations of the world are unrealistic. Teach us to step out of the trap of disappointed expectations. Help us train up our spirits; muscling-up our faith and trust, truly CROSS-FITTING ourselves for the work of the kingdom. We work as the hands and feet of the Christ offering this prayer in his name. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Did you eat leftovers as a child? Leftovers are defined as the uneaten edible portions of a meal left after the meal is over. In my house, the leftovers of a Thanksgiving dinner were consumed for days on end when I was growing up. When your mom made too much tuna casserole, or cream chipped beef, or hot dogs and beans, did you dread eating them again for dinner or did you look forward to the repeat meal? The Greek word translated as leftovers is perisseuvvw (perisseúo). It means to exceed, to be over, to be at hand in abundance. In scripture the leftovers are a really good thing. I think we have a tendency to consider our small change — sort of like money leftovers. Why not see it as a sign of abundance as well and put those leftovers to work for the kingdom of God.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we take seriously our role as partners with you in sharing your message of love and grace for all of humanity. Our tithes and offerings are just one way by which we affirm our faith and trust in you. It is in giving of what we have that we ready our hearts, bodies and minds to follow your will. May these gifts bring glory to your name, moving us ever closer to the fulfillment of your kingdom upon the earth. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
July 27, 2014 "IS THE WHO YOU?"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Most Loving and Gracious God, gathering here in this sanctuary to worship together, we are grateful for these moments of spiritual nourishment. As we sing, pray and reflect on your word we confess our relief. For this one hour we are able to receive some respite from the madness that haunts so many populations on this earth. We are rattled, frazzled and despairing of the news reports that attest to humanity’s disregard for humanity. Your children are devalued, divided and destroyed by hatred, jealousy and greed. We pray never to succumb to despair or hopelessness, seeking only to be witnesses of your goodwill , reveling in and boasting without ceasing of your mighty acts in Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
I don’t think we thought to much about the word “identity” until someone coupled it with the word crisis back in 1954 and then with the word theft in 1995. So an identity crisis came to be seen as a threat to our who-we-are-ness, that selfness which makes us unique in all the world. Identity theft, may very well cause an identity crisis and is not considered resolvable with therapy. The etymology of the word “identity” refers to sameness, the same, repeatedly, over and over. Identical twins are the same. “Same old, Same old” is the response given by those who are apathetic or have become disillusioned with their circumstances in life. Paul’s epistle to the Hebrews reminds us that sameness is good in Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today and forever.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we take seriously our role as partners with you in sharing your message of love and grace for all of humanity. Our tithes and offerings are just one way by which we affirm our faith and trust in you and ready our hearts, bodies and minds to follow your will. May these gifts bring glory to your name, moving us ever closer to the fulfillment of your kingdom upon the earth. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Most Loving and Gracious God, gathering here in this sanctuary to worship together, we are grateful for these moments of spiritual nourishment. As we sing, pray and reflect on your word we confess our relief. For this one hour we are able to receive some respite from the madness that haunts so many populations on this earth. We are rattled, frazzled and despairing of the news reports that attest to humanity’s disregard for humanity. Your children are devalued, divided and destroyed by hatred, jealousy and greed. We pray never to succumb to despair or hopelessness, seeking only to be witnesses of your goodwill , reveling in and boasting without ceasing of your mighty acts in Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
I don’t think we thought to much about the word “identity” until someone coupled it with the word crisis back in 1954 and then with the word theft in 1995. So an identity crisis came to be seen as a threat to our who-we-are-ness, that selfness which makes us unique in all the world. Identity theft, may very well cause an identity crisis and is not considered resolvable with therapy. The etymology of the word “identity” refers to sameness, the same, repeatedly, over and over. Identical twins are the same. “Same old, Same old” is the response given by those who are apathetic or have become disillusioned with their circumstances in life. Paul’s epistle to the Hebrews reminds us that sameness is good in Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today and forever.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we take seriously our role as partners with you in sharing your message of love and grace for all of humanity. Our tithes and offerings are just one way by which we affirm our faith and trust in you and ready our hearts, bodies and minds to follow your will. May these gifts bring glory to your name, moving us ever closer to the fulfillment of your kingdom upon the earth. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
July 20, 2014 "GROW UP ALREADY"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Loving Abba Father, pour your energizing, revitalizing Spirit of goodwill upon us this morning as we worship you in joy and wonderment. We are awed by the works of your hands and the preciseness of your creation. We are aware that we cannot ignore our role in sustaining the balance of nature and, in turn, the integrity of the universe. Help us to be better, more conscientious stewards of the resources you provide. Make us understand and let us teach our children that our food is not grown in cardboard boxes, harvested complete with special sauce and pickles. Remind us that it is your earth which yields the food that nourishes the animals we consume, the brightly colored vegetables and delectable fruits we treasure — enough to feed the world. Inspire us, we pray, with wondrous possibilities. Keep us from apathy and ignorance in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev. Amanda writes: Measuring growth is done in lots of ways. My father made a measuring guide out of a 4 inch wide sheet of steel which he bolted to a door threshold. He measured our height, marked it off with a pencil and wrote our names next to the mark. When we moved, it went with us. After my father died, my younger brother began using it to measure the height of his children. Diplomas from high school, college and graduate school measure intellectual growth. Bank balances measure fiscal growth, budgetary prudence and saving fortitude. But how does one measure congregational growth? Some people count heads, others view the bank balance, others look at what is happening, at how often and how many cars are in the parking lot. However, when all the numbers are recorded, I believe the measure of true growth is the spiritual confidence a congregation offers to those who come in search of sanctuary. Keep up the good work! The ushers will now come forward to receive your offerings.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings to be a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom; bringing relief, assurance and comfort to your children. We pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
Gracious and Loving Abba Father, pour your energizing, revitalizing Spirit of goodwill upon us this morning as we worship you in joy and wonderment. We are awed by the works of your hands and the preciseness of your creation. We are aware that we cannot ignore our role in sustaining the balance of nature and, in turn, the integrity of the universe. Help us to be better, more conscientious stewards of the resources you provide. Make us understand and let us teach our children that our food is not grown in cardboard boxes, harvested complete with special sauce and pickles. Remind us that it is your earth which yields the food that nourishes the animals we consume, the brightly colored vegetables and delectable fruits we treasure — enough to feed the world. Inspire us, we pray, with wondrous possibilities. Keep us from apathy and ignorance in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev. Amanda writes: Measuring growth is done in lots of ways. My father made a measuring guide out of a 4 inch wide sheet of steel which he bolted to a door threshold. He measured our height, marked it off with a pencil and wrote our names next to the mark. When we moved, it went with us. After my father died, my younger brother began using it to measure the height of his children. Diplomas from high school, college and graduate school measure intellectual growth. Bank balances measure fiscal growth, budgetary prudence and saving fortitude. But how does one measure congregational growth? Some people count heads, others view the bank balance, others look at what is happening, at how often and how many cars are in the parking lot. However, when all the numbers are recorded, I believe the measure of true growth is the spiritual confidence a congregation offers to those who come in search of sanctuary. Keep up the good work! The ushers will now come forward to receive your offerings.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings to be a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom; bringing relief, assurance and comfort to your children. We pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
July 13, 2014 "SOWING IN GOOD SOIL"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, Gracious Sovereign of the Universe, we come into this sanctuary conscious that we are in search of something. Perhaps we are looking for a place to rest and get cool away from the heat outdoors. Perhaps we have come searching for a few moments of respite for our weary stressed-to-the-max-souls. Maybe it is human contact we long for, or a word of welcome and arms that will embrace us without hesitation. Some of us must confess that we haven’t a clue what to expect from this worship experience, but we intend, no matter what, to be nourished on your word and the communion elements. We are confident that our spirits will be renewed in the company of this family of faith, for whether we are strangers or friends, we are bound together in trust and love by our faith in Jesus Christ. Hear us, as we pray the prayer that your Christ taught us.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev. Amanda writes: “I am by no stretch of the imagination a gardener, but ever since I was challenged by that community garden idea back in January, I have gone on some different reading adventures. While reading Barbara Kingsolver’s book “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle,” I realized just how far removed we all are from recognizing and comprehending the source of the foods we eat, or just how much fossil fuel is expended in bringing the food to us. Did you know there are people who have collected and guarded ancestral seeds, passed down through farming families from generation to generation? They are called heirloom seeds, and with these seeds it is actually possible to grow a 19th century vegetable garden, medicinal herb gardens—for simple home remedies, kitchen herbs and more. Churches, like good gardens, are a labor of love passed on from generation to generation. They must be tended well for them to grow and continue to yield a good harvest.” The ushers will come forward to receive the offering.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings as a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom, bringing
Glorious God, Gracious Sovereign of the Universe, we come into this sanctuary conscious that we are in search of something. Perhaps we are looking for a place to rest and get cool away from the heat outdoors. Perhaps we have come searching for a few moments of respite for our weary stressed-to-the-max-souls. Maybe it is human contact we long for, or a word of welcome and arms that will embrace us without hesitation. Some of us must confess that we haven’t a clue what to expect from this worship experience, but we intend, no matter what, to be nourished on your word and the communion elements. We are confident that our spirits will be renewed in the company of this family of faith, for whether we are strangers or friends, we are bound together in trust and love by our faith in Jesus Christ. Hear us, as we pray the prayer that your Christ taught us.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev. Amanda writes: “I am by no stretch of the imagination a gardener, but ever since I was challenged by that community garden idea back in January, I have gone on some different reading adventures. While reading Barbara Kingsolver’s book “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle,” I realized just how far removed we all are from recognizing and comprehending the source of the foods we eat, or just how much fossil fuel is expended in bringing the food to us. Did you know there are people who have collected and guarded ancestral seeds, passed down through farming families from generation to generation? They are called heirloom seeds, and with these seeds it is actually possible to grow a 19th century vegetable garden, medicinal herb gardens—for simple home remedies, kitchen herbs and more. Churches, like good gardens, are a labor of love passed on from generation to generation. They must be tended well for them to grow and continue to yield a good harvest.” The ushers will come forward to receive the offering.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings as a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom, bringing
July 6, 2014 "BOUGHT THE T-SHIRT"
AN ELEMENTAL AFFIRMATION
We believe God is neither distant nor far off, never casual or detached, but always vigilant and searching to be a part of our lives.
We believe God knows all of the sorrows and trials the human heart bears in a lifetime. Because God did not abandon Jesus in death, but raised him from the dead; we are assured that God will not abandon us even if we should abandon ourselves.
We believe God’s Holy Spirit is poured out in fullest measure
upon all who boldly seek God.
This Spirit fulfills God’s hopes for us that we might know joy in this life and the next.
We believe that we are part of God’s creation mosaic, in all our diverse shapes, sizes and colors. Each one of us is an integral piece of a vast and gloriously expanding puzzle, which has no fixed boundaries up, down, behind or before.
We are the church and we are grateful. Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Most Gracious and Loving Lord, how ironic it is that on this very weekend when we celebrate our nation’s independent ideals, we need to acknowledge our dependence upon you. Apart from your grace and your goodwill, we would still be wandering in the wilderness, worshiping golden calves. We must, however, confess our fears. As we age we are afraid of losing that independence we so cherish. We are afraid of losing our health and our ability to choose for ourselves. O, most Merciful One, when we are overcome and frustrated by the stresses and strains of having to take driving tests, defend our pharmaceuticals, sort out which tests will or will not be covered by our health insurance, help us surrender our wearying worry by taking upon our shoulders the lighter yoke offered to us by Jesus. Hear us, now, as we pray the prayer your Christ taught us.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev. Amanda writes: I receive a myriad of catalogues in the mail and most of them don’t make it into the house; they go straight into the recycle bin. However, the catalogues that offer T-shirts, with clever sayings on them, sometimes make it past the front door. It’s not the shirt, but the message that draws my attention. I have been known to buy the T-shirts with really sarcastic messages for my older brother. He introduced me to the website known as “Despair.com” — they boast an array of colorful de-motivation posters like: “Mercy” “Teach every child you meet the importance of forgiveness. It's our only hope of surviving their wrath once they realize just how badly we've screwed things up for them.” Or “Challenges” “I expected times like this - but I never thought they'd be so bad, so long, and so frequent.” I think it’s safe to say we become Christians so cynicism doesn’t get the better or best of us. The ushers will now come forward to receive your offerings.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings as a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom, bringing relief, assurance and comfort to your children. We pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
We believe God is neither distant nor far off, never casual or detached, but always vigilant and searching to be a part of our lives.
We believe God knows all of the sorrows and trials the human heart bears in a lifetime. Because God did not abandon Jesus in death, but raised him from the dead; we are assured that God will not abandon us even if we should abandon ourselves.
We believe God’s Holy Spirit is poured out in fullest measure
upon all who boldly seek God.
This Spirit fulfills God’s hopes for us that we might know joy in this life and the next.
We believe that we are part of God’s creation mosaic, in all our diverse shapes, sizes and colors. Each one of us is an integral piece of a vast and gloriously expanding puzzle, which has no fixed boundaries up, down, behind or before.
We are the church and we are grateful. Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Most Gracious and Loving Lord, how ironic it is that on this very weekend when we celebrate our nation’s independent ideals, we need to acknowledge our dependence upon you. Apart from your grace and your goodwill, we would still be wandering in the wilderness, worshiping golden calves. We must, however, confess our fears. As we age we are afraid of losing that independence we so cherish. We are afraid of losing our health and our ability to choose for ourselves. O, most Merciful One, when we are overcome and frustrated by the stresses and strains of having to take driving tests, defend our pharmaceuticals, sort out which tests will or will not be covered by our health insurance, help us surrender our wearying worry by taking upon our shoulders the lighter yoke offered to us by Jesus. Hear us, now, as we pray the prayer your Christ taught us.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev. Amanda writes: I receive a myriad of catalogues in the mail and most of them don’t make it into the house; they go straight into the recycle bin. However, the catalogues that offer T-shirts, with clever sayings on them, sometimes make it past the front door. It’s not the shirt, but the message that draws my attention. I have been known to buy the T-shirts with really sarcastic messages for my older brother. He introduced me to the website known as “Despair.com” — they boast an array of colorful de-motivation posters like: “Mercy” “Teach every child you meet the importance of forgiveness. It's our only hope of surviving their wrath once they realize just how badly we've screwed things up for them.” Or “Challenges” “I expected times like this - but I never thought they'd be so bad, so long, and so frequent.” I think it’s safe to say we become Christians so cynicism doesn’t get the better or best of us. The ushers will now come forward to receive your offerings.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings as a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom, bringing relief, assurance and comfort to your children. We pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
June 29, 2014 "So When Are the Rest Of You Really Going To Trust Me?"
AN ELEMENTAL AFFIRMATION
We believe God is neither distant nor far off, never casual or detached, but always vigilant and searching to be a part of our lives.
We believe God knows all of the sorrows and trials the human heart bears in a lifetime. Because God did not abandon Jesus in death, but raised him from the dead; we are assured that God will not abandon us even if we should abandon ourselves.
We believe God’s Holy Spirit is poured out in fullest measure
upon all who boldly seek God.
This Spirit fulfills God’s hopes for us that we might know joy in this life and the next.
We believe that we are part of God’s creation mosaic, in all our diverse shapes, sizes and colors. Each one of us is an integral piece of a vast and gloriously expanding puzzle, which has no fixed boundaries up, down, behind or before.
We are the church and we are grateful. Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, our most Loving and Gracious Creator, we give you thanks for this new day, which brings with it another opportunity to worship you in the company of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Those of us who helped out with Vacation Bible School are so very grateful for your inspiration as we spent time helping our children discover the important part you play in all of our lives. Participating in such an adventure we can all be reminded how truly you are the worker of wonders. We admit that when things look complicated we can tend to anticipate the worst, and are always amazed when the wonderful happens. Remind us that we are the ones who choose. We can worry or we can put our trust in you, but we can’t do both. Keep us on course by your ever-presence with us and hear us as we pray the prayer your Christ taught us.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev Amanda writes: “My tax man told me it was time for me to establish a living trust so that when I die my assets will not be tied up in probate court. He gave me that homework assignment on March 17th to complete by tax time next year. I am usually pretty trustworthy with homework assignments, but it’s June and Friday the 13th and I haven’t started my assignment. Imagine my relief when I started to study up on these Living Trusts and learned that I could name myself as Trustee and manage my own assets. Great! I can also name a co-trustee who can take over when I just can’t figure it out anymore. I realized that we, as members of the body of Christ, are all trustees of Christ’s church. Every time we baptize a child or welcome a new member, we promise God that we can be trusted to care for the church and our brothers and sisters in Christ.” Think of yourselves as God’s co-trustees! The ushers will now come forward to collect the offering.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings as a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom; bringing relief, assurance and comfort to your children. We pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
We believe God is neither distant nor far off, never casual or detached, but always vigilant and searching to be a part of our lives.
We believe God knows all of the sorrows and trials the human heart bears in a lifetime. Because God did not abandon Jesus in death, but raised him from the dead; we are assured that God will not abandon us even if we should abandon ourselves.
We believe God’s Holy Spirit is poured out in fullest measure
upon all who boldly seek God.
This Spirit fulfills God’s hopes for us that we might know joy in this life and the next.
We believe that we are part of God’s creation mosaic, in all our diverse shapes, sizes and colors. Each one of us is an integral piece of a vast and gloriously expanding puzzle, which has no fixed boundaries up, down, behind or before.
We are the church and we are grateful. Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, our most Loving and Gracious Creator, we give you thanks for this new day, which brings with it another opportunity to worship you in the company of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Those of us who helped out with Vacation Bible School are so very grateful for your inspiration as we spent time helping our children discover the important part you play in all of our lives. Participating in such an adventure we can all be reminded how truly you are the worker of wonders. We admit that when things look complicated we can tend to anticipate the worst, and are always amazed when the wonderful happens. Remind us that we are the ones who choose. We can worry or we can put our trust in you, but we can’t do both. Keep us on course by your ever-presence with us and hear us as we pray the prayer your Christ taught us.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
Rev Amanda writes: “My tax man told me it was time for me to establish a living trust so that when I die my assets will not be tied up in probate court. He gave me that homework assignment on March 17th to complete by tax time next year. I am usually pretty trustworthy with homework assignments, but it’s June and Friday the 13th and I haven’t started my assignment. Imagine my relief when I started to study up on these Living Trusts and learned that I could name myself as Trustee and manage my own assets. Great! I can also name a co-trustee who can take over when I just can’t figure it out anymore. I realized that we, as members of the body of Christ, are all trustees of Christ’s church. Every time we baptize a child or welcome a new member, we promise God that we can be trusted to care for the church and our brothers and sisters in Christ.” Think of yourselves as God’s co-trustees! The ushers will now come forward to collect the offering.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, bless these offerings as a message of your grace and mercy for all the world. May they speak loudly of our faith, our commitment and our trust in your will and way for us. May our gifts work for your kingdom; bringing relief, assurance and comfort to your children. We pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
June 22, 2014 "HOW DO YOU SPELL SIN?"
AN AFFIRMATION OF FAITH FOR THE SEASON OF PENTECOST
The Spirit of God moved over the face of the waters and brought the world into being.
That same Spirit breathes life into us today.
The Spirit of God conceived a Messiah, the Son and beloved One. His name meant salvation. He was our Emmanuel — God with us.
When Jesus gave up his life for us he entrusted his Spirit giving it into God’s hands and God raised him from the dead.
The Spirit of God poured the language of salvation in Christ Jesus into the hearts, minds and mouths of his disciples empowering them to tell their story to all the world.
That same Spirit moves in and through the Church, the Body of Christ,
empowering us to witness to the truth of Christ, in loving service to all.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving God, be with us today as we focus our hearts and minds in prayer, readying ourselves for the movement of your Spirit, in our individual lives and in the life of this congregation. Pastor and church members will be separated for a while and we confess it makes us all a bit anxious. We believe with your help the days ahead can be a time of renewal for all of us, a time of discovering the best or our discipleship practices as we hone our spiritual disciplines. We will pray for one another daily, confident that even our most muddled and inadequate prayers will be heard. As we listen to others preach your word we will receive it and take it in, because the scriptures revealed are like spiritual vitamins certain to give us strength for the new day. Nourished, not only by your presence, but on your word, we are your servants in Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
The Spirit of God moved over the face of the waters and brought the world into being.
That same Spirit breathes life into us today.
The Spirit of God conceived a Messiah, the Son and beloved One. His name meant salvation. He was our Emmanuel — God with us.
When Jesus gave up his life for us he entrusted his Spirit giving it into God’s hands and God raised him from the dead.
The Spirit of God poured the language of salvation in Christ Jesus into the hearts, minds and mouths of his disciples empowering them to tell their story to all the world.
That same Spirit moves in and through the Church, the Body of Christ,
empowering us to witness to the truth of Christ, in loving service to all.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving God, be with us today as we focus our hearts and minds in prayer, readying ourselves for the movement of your Spirit, in our individual lives and in the life of this congregation. Pastor and church members will be separated for a while and we confess it makes us all a bit anxious. We believe with your help the days ahead can be a time of renewal for all of us, a time of discovering the best or our discipleship practices as we hone our spiritual disciplines. We will pray for one another daily, confident that even our most muddled and inadequate prayers will be heard. As we listen to others preach your word we will receive it and take it in, because the scriptures revealed are like spiritual vitamins certain to give us strength for the new day. Nourished, not only by your presence, but on your word, we are your servants in Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
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