We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only-begotten, Begotten of the Father before all ages, Light of Light, Very God of Very God, Begotten, not made; of one essence with the Father, by whom all things were made:
Who for us and for our salvation came down from heaven, and was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and was made human; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures; and ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father. He shall come again with glory to judge the living and the dead, Whose kingdom shall have no end.
And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, and Giver of Life, Who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified, who spoke by the Prophets; and we believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one Baptism for the remission of sins. We look for the Resurrection of the dead, and the Life of the age to come. Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious Creator, Beloved Christ, Empowering Spirit, we know you are ever near. We pray that you will help us love the days of this life, to treasure the moments we have with loved ones and friends, to luxuriate in the kindness, and thoughtfulness of others, and learn from them. Let us lift one another up with respecting our differences, and honoring our similarities. Remind us that there are moments in life much greater than recounting our own personal accomplishments. Teach us to be attentive to your presence with us and attentive to each other’s needs. All this we pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
“Good things come in threes.” “The third time is a charm.” “It’s like a three ring circus around here.” “He’s three sheets to the wind.” “That guys is as phony as a three dollar bill.” “Three cheers for the Red White and Blue.” “Three strikes, you’re out at the old ball game.” “They didn’t exchange more than three words all night.” “They’re in there giving him the third degree.” The Bishops meeting at the Council of Nicea in the year 325 CE sought to compose a creed to give clarity to Christian beliefs. Their task was complicated as they tried to sort out how the essence of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit were three consubstantial hypostases — that is three distinct expressions of one "substance, essence or nature". Most of us can simply embrace the mystery by believing that Good things come in threes.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we believe you are at work in each of us. Your Holy Spirit whispers words of generosity to our hearts and we ask your blessing on our gifts. These tithes and offerings are an act of worship and a thankful response to your incredible generosity. May our congregation continue to thrive and grow as each of us seeks to mature disciples of Jesus. Help us recognize your empowering and gracious presence at work in us and let us bring glory to your name. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
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