It was the Spirit of God who moved over the face of the waters,
and brought the universe and this earth into being.
That same Spirit breathes life into human creation.
It was the Spirit of God who conceived a Messiah, the Son and Beloved One.
The very name, “Jesus,” meant salvation. He was our Emmanuel; God with us.
When Jesus gave up his life for ours,
at the last he commended his own Spirit into God’s hands, and God, the creator,
raised him from the dead.
It was the Spirit of God who poured into the hearts, minds and mouths of the Apostles
the language of salvation empowering them to tell the stories of Jesus to all the world.
And it is the Spirit of God who moves in and through the Church, the Body of Christ,
empowering us to witness to the truth of Christ, in loving service to all.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
O most Glorious and Mysterious Creator, we cannot begin to fathom your movements in the universe through all time and space. We are finite thinkers able to imagine the infinite, but unable to fully grasp how our lives, our thoughts, and our feelings fit into your kingdom plan. Today as we commemorate the birth and birthday of Christ’s Church, we call upon you in this time of prayer to pour out your Holy Spirit upon us. If we are hesitant to offer a commitment, fill us with a spirit trust and enthusiasm. If we are being stubborn and afraid, fill us with a spirit of trust and surrender. If we are angry and doubtful, fill us with a spirit of trust and possibility. Help us to follow the footsteps of Jesus believing that they will lead us along the path of trust. All this we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
My grandfather was a big fan of thermometers. His favorite was the underwater thermometer used to take the temperature of the salt water swimming pool he had constructed on our property in Kennebunkport, Maine. He was diligent checking the submerged instrument several times a day, and recording his findings on a chalk board for all family members considering a swim. 70° meant “refreshing”; 74° easier to get used to; 76° “just dive in, the water is fine.” In the church we like to use symbolic thermometers to indicate just how close we are to meeting a financial goal. I draw your attention to our Glory Campaign Thermometer. (Drum Roll) Behold! The RED is on the rise as it should be on this Pentecost Sunday.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Wondrous and Eternal God, pour out your blessing upon these gifts and promises. We offer them with full and grateful hearts. We trust that you will always guide us to use them wisely, and always for the greater good. 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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