We believe in God, the creator of heaven and earth, granter of grace and life.
We believe that nothing in all the world, can separate us from the love of God
who always forgives a repentant heart.
We believe in Jesus Christ, God in human vesture, who came to love us into new life.
We believe that Jesus took the burden of our sins upon himself,
and carried that burden to the cross where he relinquished his own life for our sakes.
This act was his ultimate gift to us.
We believe that his death was not the end, but that he was raised from the dead,
and he will come again one day.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, who speaks truth to all people, in every language.
Our hearts are warmed when we embrace that Spirit, and God’s presence within us is revealed.
As the church, and as members of the body of Christ in the world,
we believe we are called to make a difference in this world.
Thanks be to God.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, we picture your majesty, your splendor the opulence of your abode and are struck by the contrast with the life you chose on earth. Today we process with Jesus followers watching as those closest to him lifted him up upon a donkey. Just like Solomon rode his father’s donkey to Gihon to be anointed king, so too Jesus rode into Jerusalem, your anointed messiah descending the Mount of Olives. When Solomon received his anointing the people shouted, “Long live King Solomon.” Today Jesus’ followers are shouting, “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David!” Dearest Lord, help us focus our hearts and minds on the significance of every moment of this Holy Week. Help us comprehend that Jesus gave everything so that his disciples might continue spreading the Good News, giving of themselves over to the task. Let us follow in their footsteps giving ourselves over to the task. In the name of the Christ, let us be light and Good News to all whom we meet. Amen.
INVITATION TO THE OFFERING
Two options for a worship theme are provided for this final Sunday of the Lenten season: Palm Sunday or Passion Sunday. When we choose Passion Sunday as the theme, during worship the entire story of Jesus final week of life is told. If we choose Palm Sunday as the theme, the hope is that worshipers will attend the Holy Thursday and Holy Friday Services, to hear the rest of the story, before getting dressed up for Easter. Remembering that there must be endings that precede new beginnings, let us trust God, opening ourselves to the grief that will come always anticipating that God promises only good for us, and will deliver on that promise.
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