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 God’s 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 to make a difference in God’s world.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
O Lord, you are our strength and our salvation, a very present help in times of trouble. But you are also there to dance with us in our triumph, and celebrate the glad moments of our lives. When we are confronted with challenges that seem insurmountable, open our eyes to the helpers all around us, who have gifts, experience and insights to get us over the hurdles. Comfort us beyond dashed hopes and teach us prayers of possibility. Let us not fall into despair because of our lacks and shortcomings, our folly or our ignorance. Wrap us in your merciful, loving arms and show us how to forgive others and ourselves. When we are caught up short; when we find ourselves getting impatient, pour your spirit of calm over us. Wash away the shadowy darkness that lingers after an insult. Let us perceive in our hearts and minds what is the way of the Christ and live into it. All this we pray in his most holy name. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
I learned a great deal this week from my accountant about the bottom line. It can refer to the essential or salient point, the crux of matter and is primary or most important consideration. When it comes to finance the bottom line refers to the net profit or loss. In our capitalist economy and democratic society, we understand that one’s gross income is not the bottom line. We pay tribute to the government of these United States for the privilege of living here. We live our daily lives on what remains after the tribute is paid. The lesson I learned had to do with the many and varied tributes that can and will be exacted from individual citizens who accumulate assets and seek to liquidate them. Just a couple of months ago a friend told me that she made more money in her retirement than she did when she was working. That seems topsy-turvy to me. The offering I make to my church, will not nullify the tribute expected by the US treasury, but it can put a dent in it.
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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