We believe in God, the creator of all things, the giver of life and breath.
We believe in Jesus Christ, born Emmanuel, God with us.
He was baptized by John and anointed the most beloved Son of God.
Jesus sought to heal humanity by taking our brokenness upon himself.
Suffering for us, he was crucified, died and was buried.
We believe God raised Jesus from the dead for the sake of all people,
and the promise of eternal life.
We believe the risen Lord will come again, one day.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the inspiring counselor of truth breathed into us and poured out upon us; sent to guide our lives.
We believe in the church, Christ’s body at work in the world.
We believe God is leading us into a new day, ever onward toward the Kingdom of God.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous God, Creator of the Universe, we are awed and humbled by your love and care for us. May our spirits always be renewed in worship as we offer hymns and prayers of thanks and praise. We believe in your timeliness and are grateful for those moments when we most clearly understand your will for us. The Psalm reminds us that you are the grand restorer of all things. We confess that there are days when the world around us feels overwhelmingly complex and troubled. As those who long to do what is right in your eyes, we are often left wondering which way to turn. Each day when we rise, we shall trust our spirits to your care, and when we lie down, accept a good night’s sleep. All this we pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
INVITATION TO COMMITMENT
I am hoping that during the last four weeks you have given some thought about the purpose of the church, that is the ‘WHY” of the church. What is the purpose of the Big C church and what is our purpose at the local level? WHY are WE here?
Then we are obliged to ask ourselves if we believe in the purpose of our church, and if we do, then the next step is to support that purpose.
How many of you know that the term “perks” really comes from the word perquisite? Maybe they shortened it because the actual word is so formal. A perquisite is a benefit a thing regarded as a special right or privilege enjoyed as a result of one's position.
What are the perks of being a member of a church? For most of us, it is the worship experience and the fellowship of like-hearted people. We learn a lot; we laugh a lot, and we are nourished spiritually. For some of us Sunday and Tuesday pancakes are perks. OH YES, the volunteers get to sample what they serve.
We are all capable of supporting the purpose and mission of the church on some level. What do you suppose are the perks of supporting the church’s purpose? Perhaps it’s the good feeling that comes from being part of something laudable. Together we have the ability, to build and grow church, which is more than what people expect. YES, more than what people expect. We have the capability of building a surprising church, a place where people feel not just welcomed, but invited.
We are not asking you to give until it hurts. Giving shouldn’t be considered a chore, rather we need to look upon our giving as a perk, the opportunity to build a lasting and vital community of faith. Take time to think while the bells are playing the offertory after which the Ushers will come forward to collect your offerings and your pledge cards.
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