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 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 a fiery and passionate truth in every language to all people. 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.
A REALLY TERRIFIC CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
O most glorious and loving God, some of us have come into this sanctuary eagerly anticipating feeling physically and spiritually revitalized in worship. Some of us have no idea what to expect, wondering if we will be truly welcomed, or if we will feel like an outsider. Some of us have come, because even though we are away from home, church is what we do on Sunday and it’s good to have new experiences. Some of us have come because our parents brought us, and we are hoping for decent snacks in Sunday school. Some will confess they are looking for words of comfort to ease their troubled, sorrowful souls. Some are looking for answers that will explain why the world is such a mess. Some just need a quiet place away where they can be at peace for awhile. No matter how we got here, or why, we have this opportunity to be united in, and by your Spirit. Pour it on, in the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
I used to work with a woman, who bought something new for herself everyday, or so it seemed, because I never saw Pat wear the same garment twice. Her husband got a brain tumor and died. I worked with another woman who never bought anything for herself. She ironed her husband’s underwear, and had a son who suffered from severe ulcerative colitis. Things will happen in this life that can cripple the spirit. Luke’s Jesus cautions us not to be bound by fear or trouble, but to turn to God and be set free. How will people know where to turn if there is no church to help them?
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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