We believe in one creative God righteous and patient, merciful and just. We believe that God created all that is and all that lives.
God is perpetually creating. We believe that God’s handiwork is well thought out, diverse, colorful, and inspiring.
We accept that God has entrusted the earth, and all that is in it, to our care.
We believe that Jesus was given unto the world in order that humankind could know the true heart of God.
Jesus’ life revealed God’s willing presence in our lives. His death revealed God’s love,
and his resurrection from the dead revealed God’s power.
We believe that God’s Holy Spirit came to us in the nick of time, while we held our breath,
wondering what to do next. Proof that God is perpetually creating,
the Spirit whispers truth, love and justice, showing us how to walk humbly with God.
We believe in the church. It is the body of Christ called to continue his work in the world.
Like God’s creation, the church is a living organism, evolving,
responding and transforming itself when all of creation cries out for change.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Loving Creator, we give you thanks for our voices particularly when we hear them singing the triumphant, sweet and reassuring hymns we love. We want to be conscientious in living our faith, believing that your commandments guide us on our way. We must confess that our missteps are frequent, particularly when we get tired, or frightened or are feeling frustrated and alone. When the world threatens to undo us, let us know you are ever near, and ready to lend your strength to help us harness the beast. We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
How many of you watch tabloid talk shows? The more famous hosts were Jerry Springer, Morton Downey, Jr., Geraldo Rivera, Montel Williams, Jenny Jones, Sally Jesse Raphael, Ricky Lake, Maury Povich, and others. Shows that started out as copy cats of Phil Donahue morphed into outrageous spectacles that sensationalized human bad behavior. These hosts invited their audience of voyeurs to pass judgment on bigots and racists, cons and ex-cons, cheating spouses, people too fat or too skinny, people with bizarre phobias, habits and beliefs. They purported to present real stories, but what was exposed was the tragedy faithlessness. Believing in something greater than ourselves takes time, investment and work, like anything else we seek to do well.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, pour out your blessing on these gifts offered with open hearts and hands. Your Son promised that he would never drive anyone away who comes to him. We pray, that as the body of Christ in the world we, like Jesus, will never drive anyone away. May this church always be a place of sanctuary, exuding a spirit of welcome and acceptance. Show us the better way to care for the sheep of your pasture, helping as we are able to heal our broken world. We pray never to take the church for granted. Remind us that our gifts are life-giving. To you, gracious God, we give thanks and praise, in the name of the Christ. Amen.
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