We believe that God the creator of the universe, breathed life into us,
and we give thanks for God’s abundant and unfailing grace.
We believe that Jesus, though equal with God, emptied himself and became like us.
Because Jesus first loved us, we carry him close in our hearts,
and his name is ever on our lips.
When he was crucified, Jesus spoke words of forgiveness. When God raised him from the dead,
God was inviting all of humanity to accept the promise of eternal life in Jesus Christ.
Jesus promised his followers that they would never be alone.
We believe the Holy Spirit is the companion he promised, our counselor of truth, and advocate.
We believe the Holy Spirit speaks the language of redemption to our souls.
As Christ’s body on earth, we gather spiritual strength from our worship of
God the Abba Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
Refreshed and renewed we work out our salvation, side by side, united in ministry to all the world.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Loving God, we are bold to ask that you give us the peace of mind that comes with discerning, and accepting your will for us. Keep us from all selfishness born of fear, and help us walk the better path, guiding our steps all along life’s way. Lead us to discover how to invest ourselves, our gifts, and the talents you have given each of us, for the benefit of humanity and the wellbeing of your creation. Give us hearts that long to serve your Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
The one thing our 6 youth and four adults wanted to do in Guatemala was build more stoves, but when the 35 stoves were installed there were no more on hand. The Onil company makes the wood efficiency stoves and has made them much easier to install. With shipping and transport they cost the Guatemala Mission Project about $150 a piece. Communities recruit families —at least 20— who want stoves and who are willing to commit to the partial purchase, and to learn about the care of the stove once it’s in place. Their contribution is equivalent to about 20 dollars.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Glorious and loving God, we are moved by the praise filled voices of those singing all around us. Our hearts are warmed and our spirits quickened. Recognizing that every blessing is a gift from you, we give you thanks humbly acknowledging your generosity. You have placed your trust in our willingness to share ourselves and what we have with others. We believe that no gift given in love is small. All gifts, practical, spiritual, and financial sustain the church and its ministries. Make us vital witnesses to your presence ministering in Jesus’ name to those close at hand and those in distant lands. We pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment