I believe in God, the all-powerful Sovereign of the Universe, the loving Abba Father, Creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord, God’s only Son, who was conceived by The Spirit of God and born of Mary.
Jesus was condemned to death by Pontius Pilate.
He was crucified, died and was buried. On the third day God raised Jesus from the dead.
I believe the risen Christ ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand
of God Almighty.
From this throne Jesus shall come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the church universal and the communion of saints.
I believe in the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and eternal life.
Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
God of Grace and glory we are confident that even on our worst day your arms are reaching out to embrace us and lead us in the better way. Your longing is for us to rejoice in the days or our life, to celebrate the abundance of your love, grace and mercy, not wither in doubt or uncertainty about what is to come. We confess our need for assurance while we remember in love those who have crossed the threshold from this life into the next. Fill our imaginings with visions of glorious things to come and teach us how to pass our confidence on to our children. Help us exemplify our absolute trust in you. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
THE OFFERING INVITATION
Did you ever wonder how All Hallows’ Eve, also called All Saints Eve, evolved into a celebration of candy? October 31st, November 1st and November 2nd are actually a triad of celebrations known in liturgical circles as the triduum of Allhallowtide (the three days of All Saints season). Each of the three days moves into and connects with the next: All Hallows, All Saints and All Souls. The triad of days is specifically dedicated to remembering those who have ended their journey of faith on earth. Sam Potaro writes: “On All Hallows’ Eve our ancestors used the most powerful weapon in the human arsenal, to confront the power of death —the power of humor and ridicule. The costumes worn and games played were all a part of humanity’s fearless derision of death. All Saints Day is the day to honor all saints known and unknown. Protestants believe that all confessing Christians will be among the saints of heaven. Today, in fact, is All Souls Day when we commemorate all the faithful departed, especially family and friends.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we have come to understand that offering our gifts is an act of worship just as important as praying, singing and attending to your word in scripture. We believe that what Christ’s Church is able to accomplish through the gifts we offer, glorifies your name. Ever seeking to discern your will and way for us, our hearts are full as we labor side by side with our brother and sister Christians. As you have entrusted us with much we respond in kind lending our hearts and hands to heal a broken and hurting world. Empower us to serve wholeheartedly in Christ’s name. Amen.
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