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 walk among 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 his own life for our sakes. This was his ultimate gift to us.
We believe that the Christ triumphed over death and will come to us again one day.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, who speaks a passionate truth to all people, in every language.
Embracing the Holy Spirit, our hearts are warmed and we become living proof of God’s transforming presence.
We believe in the church, the body of Christ to which we belong, and through which we are called to serve and make a difference in God’s world.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Merciful God, we come humbly into your presence on this first Sunday of Lent, understanding that our spiritual lives are in need of attention. We confess that we allow the myriad of demands placed on our time to draw us away from attending to our faith. By the end of the day we are often too worn out to be attentive to the holy ordinances, which offer us an opportunity to commune with you. Lead us to comprehend that a few minutes in faithful reflection will do our souls more good than a few minutes watching the television news. Lord, help us, also to re-order our priorities. Show us the way to change just one habit in this Lenten season. Open our eyes and hearts to see the bigger picture. Let us hear the voice of Jesus calling us in from the sidelines, we are not meant to be onlookers, kibitzers, or analysts, rather we are members of Jesus’ team tasked with making an opening for God’s kingdom come. May our team spirit flourish in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we offer these gifts of thanksgiving and praise understanding that they are instruments of goodwill. Let these gifts proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to those who have not heard it, whether in word or deed. As we labor side by side we offer our hearts and our hands to lead the lost out of darkness, to touch the untouchable and to heal those wounded by the world. Empower us to build ministries that transform and restore the souls of your people giving glory to Christ’s name in everything. Amen.
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