We believe in God, the Creator of heaven and earth, Sovereign of the Universe,
and loving ABBA, Father,
We believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, the Beloved One,
who was conceived by The Spirit of God, and born of Mary.
Jesus was condemned to death by Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.
We believe that on the third day, according to plan, God raised Jesus from the dead.
We believe that the Christ ascended into heaven and is seated at God’s right hand.
We believe Jesus will come again, one day, to judge the living and the dead.
We believe in the gift of the Holy Spirit who is our ever-present advocate
and counselor of truth.
We believe in the church universal, the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and eternal life.
Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious God, today we remember and give thanks for your sovereignty over the universe. On this, Christ The King Sunday, we envision our risen Lord enthroned at your right hand, crowned with light, empowered to judge the nations. We confess our distress when nations rage against one-another, when the principalities and powers wrestle back and forth, trying to get a bigger piece of the proverbial pie. Let us not be dismayed, but keep us mindful of your watchful presence. May all our strivings help to bring your kingdom to fruition upon the earth. Make us aware of the ways we allow greed and political bullying to perpetuate crimes against humanity. Remind us now, and always that you are the Lord of Life, the Sovereign of Hope, the Prince of Peace, The Wonderful Counselor and Spirit of Truth. We are waiting for your kingdom to come upon the earth, not one of human design. Empower your servants to do justice, perpetuate kindness, and walk humbly before you. All this we pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
INVITATION TO THE OFFERING
My dog Sonny gobbles up dog-biscuits whenever we visit the vet. He just loves them. At home, whenever I am about to leave the house, no matter what time of day it is, for Chiquita it’s always dog-biscuit time. The two dogs meet me in the kitchen to await their treat. Usually Sonny is at my right hand and Chiquita is at my left. Chiquita is, for all intents and purposes blind, but for dog biscuits she has x-ray vision. What astounds me every time, is Sonny’s refusal to take his biscuit until Chiquita has hers. In a world where the strong trample or shove aside the weak, where the big dogs muscle the little dogs away from their dishes, and the fatter sheep take the best pasture for themselves, it is my dog who reminds me everyday that, in God’s kingdom, the last shall be first.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Wondrous and Eternal God, bless these tithes and offerings. We offer them with grateful hearts, trusting that you will guide us to use them wisely, for the edification of Christ’s church and the good of humanity. Jesus taught us that all things are possible with you. May all our work and all our efforts serve your will. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
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