We believe in God the creator of heaven and earth, the giver of light, 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 Jesus 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
Gracious and most Merciful God, we come most humbly into this sanctuary with a longing in our hearts to be ever closer to you. As we journey through Lent we will reflect on the questions revealed by the scriptures, and search within for our response endeavoring, then, to live into it. We will exercise our spiritual muscles by making one of Wesley’s Three Simple Rules part of our daily diet, nourishing our souls on the means of grace, praying, worshiping, fasting, studying the scriptures, and communing often. We confess to leading lives that are quite full, and we are busy with all the things to be busy with. Help us gracious Lord to find that quiet center where we can pray and reflect on our place in your universe. Inspire us to serve your purposes in Jesus’ name. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
How many of you are familiar with the term “deferred maintenance?” When we don’t keep the house routinely painted, the roof shingles in good repair, or the gutters clear of debris, our homes suffer the consequences. Churches too. The Sierra Madre UMC suffered water damage to their sanctuary after the last big rain, and to top it off their 60 year old heater went kaput. Too old to be repaired, they must buy a new heater at a cost of $13,000, and they don’t have the money. Perhaps the result of deferred maintenance thinking, “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it,” they are unable to worship in their sanctuary. The season of Lent testifies to the fact that we can defer maintenance on many things, including our spiritual selves. Let your church help you keep up the maintenance on your soul.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Wondrous and Eternal God, pour out your blessing upon the gifts we bring. We offer them with full and grateful hearts, trusting that you will guide us in our use of them. Proclaiming our belief that all things are possible with you, we offer ourselves in service, seeking always, in the name of the Christ, to do your work and will. Amen.
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