John Calvin Presbyterian Church

• The day of resurrection! Earth, tell it out abroad,

the Passover of gladness, the Passover of God.  

From death to life eternal, from sin’s dominion free,

our Christ has brought us over with hymns of victory.

3. Now let the heavens be joyful; let earth its song begin;

the round world keep high triumph 

and all that is therein.

Let all things seen and unseen 

their notes of gladness blend,

for Christ the Lord has risen, our joy that has no end. 

WORDS OF WELCOME          

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP John 20:19, 21

ONE: Peace be with you. Jesus stands among us. 

MANY: Peace be with you. The Risen Lord is here.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Almighty and eternal God, the strength of those who believe and the hope of those who doubt, may we, who have not seen, have faith and receive the fullness of Christ’s blessing, who is alive and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. 

*HYMN (GTG #250)            ”Hymn of Promise”               PROMISE

1. In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree;

in cocoons, a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free!

In the cold a snow of winter there’s a spring that waits to be,

unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. 

2. There’s a song in every silence, seeking word and melody;

there’s a dawn in every darkness, 

bringing hope to you and me.

From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery,

unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. 

3. In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity;

in our doubt there is believing; in our life, eternity.

In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory,

unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. 

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

CONFESSION 

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Almighty God, in raising Jesus from the grave, you shattered the power of sin and death. We confess that we remain captive to doubt and fear, bound by the ways that lead to death. We overlook the poor and the hungry, and pass by those who mourn; we are deaf to the cries of the oppressed, and indifferent to calls for peace; we despise the weak, and abuse the earth you made. 

Forgive us, God of mercy. Help us to trust your power to change our lives and make us new, that we may know the joy of life abundant given in Jesus Christ, the risen Lord. Amen. 

DECLARATION of FORGIVENESS  

ONE: In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!

MANY: Thanks be to God!

*GLORIA PATRI (GTG #581) 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, 

world without end, Amen, Amen.

PROCLAMATION

SCRIPTURE LESSON                         John 20:19-31

When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’ When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.’

But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.’

A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.’ Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.’

Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON           “Slow to Understand”               Mike Isham

 RESPONSE     

*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH                           Heidelberg Catechism               

ONE: What is your only comfort, in life and in death?

MANY: That I belong body and soul, in life and in death not to myself but to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ, who at the cost of his own blood has fully paid for all my sins and has completely freed me from the dominion of the devil; that he protects me so well that without the will of my Father in heaven not a hair can fall from my head; indeed, that everything must fit his purpose for my salvation. Therefore, by the Holy Spirit, he also assures me of eternal life, and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for him.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY

*DOXOLOGY (GTG #609)

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures high and low. Alleluia, Alleluia!

Praise God, in Jesus fully known: 

Creator, Word, and Spirit one.

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever.  Amen

*HYMN (Blue #104; GTG #248)           

“Christ is Risen! Shout Hosanna!”        HYMN TO JOY

1. Christ is risen! Shout hosanna! Celebrate this day of days!

Christ is risen! Hush and wonder: all creation is amazed.

In the dessert all surrounding, 

see a spreading tree has grown.

Healing leaves of grace abounding 

bring a taste of love unknown. 

2. Christ is risen! Raise your spirits 

from the caverns of despair. 

Walk with gladness in the morning. 

See what love can do and dare. 

Drink the wine or resurrection, not a servant, but a friend.

Jesus is our strong companion. 

Joy and peace shall never end. 

3. Christ is risen! Earth and heaven 

never more shall be the same. 

Break with bread of new creation 

where the world is still in pain.

Tell its grim, demonic chorus: “Christ is risen! Get ye gone!”

God, the First and Last is with us. Sing hosanna every one!

*PARTING PRAYER

Glory to you, O God: you have won victory over death, raising Jesus from the grave and giving us eternal life. Glory to you, O Christ: for us and for our salvation you have overcome death and opened the gate to everlasting life. Glory to you, O Holy Spirit: you lead us into the truth. Glory to you, O Blessed Trinity, now and forever. Amen. 

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

*RESPONSE (Blue #113; GTG #245)       

“Christ the Lord is Risen Today!”       LLANFAIR

“Christ the Lord is risen today!” Al-le-lu-ia!

All creation, join to say: Al-le-lu-ia!

Raise your joys and triumphs high, Al-le-lu-ia!

Sing, O heavens, and earth reply, Al-le-lu-ia!

POSTLUDE                         

*Note: the hymn lyrics in the bulletin and on the projection screen are from the Glory To God Hymnal (© 2013 Westminster John Knox Press), which we are transitioning to. Words in the “Blue” Presbyterian Hymnal (© 1990) in your pew may differ slightly.

Participating in today’s service are Rev. Aaron Ochart, Pastor; Louise Ochart, CE Leader; Kelly Cuppett, Music Director. Appreciation to Dennis Lauland. Mike Fortin, and David Garland for the video production of today’s service. 

The Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by Permission. All Rights Reserved. 

STAFF

1. Jesus Christ is risen today, Al-le-lu-ia! 

our triumphant holy day, Al-le-lu-ia!

who did once upon the cross, Al-le-lu-ia!

suffer to redeem our loss, Al-le-lu-ia!

2. Hymns of praise then let us sing, Al-le-lu-ia! 

unto Christ, our heavenly king, Al-le-lu-ia!

who endured to cross and grave, Al-le-lu-ia!

sinners to redeem and save. Al-le-lu-ia!

3. But the pains which he endured, Al-le-lu-ia!

our salvation have procured. Al-le-lu-ia!

Now above the sky he’s King, Al-le-lu-ia!

where the angels ever sing. Al-le-lu-ia!

4. Sing we to our God above, Al-le-lu-ia!

praise eternal as God’s love. Al-le-lu-ia!

Praise our God, Ye heavenly host, Al-le-lu-ia!

Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Al-le-lu-ia!

WORDS OF WELCOME   

MINUTE FOR MISSION: One Great Hour of Sharing          

ADORATION

LITANY for EASTER

ONE: This is the day that the Lord has made; 

let us rejoice, and be glad in it.

MANY: Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!

ONE: This is the good news we have received,

in which we stand, and by which we are saved:

MANY: Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!

ONE: That Christ died for our sins, and was buried,

and rose again on the third day.

MANY: Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!

ONE: He appeared to Peter, and to the twelve,

and to many faithful witnesses.

MANY: Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!

ONE: At last he came to us, that we might come to believe

and proclaim this good news to the world. 

MANY: Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!

ONE: God of mercy, we no longer look for Jesus among the dead for he is alive and has become the Lord of life. From the waters of death you raise us with him and renew your gift of life within us. Increase in our minds and hearts the risen life we share with Christ and help us to grow as your people toward the fullness of eternal life with you, through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

*HYMN (Blue #118; GTG#233)    

“The Day of Resurrection!”    LANCASHIRE

• The day of resurrection! Earth, tell it out abroad,

the Passover of gladness, the Passover of God.  

From death to life eternal, from sin’s dominion free,

our Christ has brought us over with hymns of victory.

1. Let hearts be purged of evil that we may see aright

the Lord in rays eternal of resurrection light,

and listening to his accents, 

may hear, so calm and plain,

his own “All hail!” and hearing, 

may raise the victor strain. 

3. Now let the heavens be joyful; let earth its song begin;

the round world keep high triumph 

and all that is therein.

Let all things seen and unseen 

their notes of gladness blend.

for Christ the Lord has risen, our joy that has no end. 

       

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN 

* RESPONSE HYMN (GTG#241) Woman, Weeping in the Garden 

1 Woman, weeping in the garden,

who has pushed the stone aside?

Who has taken Jesus’ body, Jesus Christ the crucified?

5 Woman, dancing from the garden, 

find the others and proclaim

Christ is risen as he promised; 

tell the world he knew your name!

CONFESSION 

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Almighty God, in raising Jesus from the grave, you shattered the power of sin and death. We confess that we remain captive to doubt and fear, bound by the ways that lead to death. We overlook the poor and the hungry, and pass by those who mourn; we are deaf to the cries of the oppressed, and indifferent to calls for peace; we despise the weak, and abuse the earth you made. 

Forgive us, God of mercy. Help us to trust your power to change our lives and make us new, that we may know the joy of life abundant given in Jesus Christ, the risen Lord. Amen. 

DECLARATION of FORGIVENESS  

ONE: In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!

MANY: Thanks be to God!

*GLORIA PATRI #581 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, 

world without end, Amen, Amen.

PROCLAMATION

SCRIPTURE LESSON                         Mark 16:1-8

When the sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. They had been saying to one another, ‘Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?’ When they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had already been rolled back. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man, dressed in a white robe, sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed. But he said to them, ‘Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Look, there is the place they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you.’ So they went out and fled from the tomb, for terror and amazement had seized them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

ANTHEM        Easter Introit  by Bob Moore

feat. Seth Guidry, trumpet

Cameron & Briana Mayfield, handbells

SERMON         “Fleeing from the Tomb”    The Rev. Aaron Ochart

 RESPONSE     

*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH                                Scots Confession

We confess and acknowledge one God alone, to whom alone we must cleave, whom alone we must serve, whom only we must worship, and in whom alone we put our trust. Who is eternal, infinite, immeasurable, incomprehensible, omnipotent, invisible; one in substance and yet distinct in three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. By whom we confess and believe all things in heaven and earth, visible and invisible, to have been created, to be retained in their being, and to be ruled and guided by [God’s] inscrutable providence for such end as [God’s] eternal wisdom, goodness, and justice have appointed, and to the manifestation of [God’s] own glory. Amen. 

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY

*DOXOLOGY (GTG 609)

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures high and low. Alleluia, Alleluia!

Praise God, in Jesus fully known: 

Creator, Word, and Spirit one.

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY COMMUNION

THE GREAT PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

ONE: The Lord be with you.

MANY: And also with you.

ONE: Lift up your hearts.

MANY: We lift them to the Lord.

ONE: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

MANY: It is right to give our thanks and praise.

ONE: …Therefore with all creation we sing your praise:

MANY: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

ONE: … According to Christ’s Commandment:

MANY: We remember his death, we proclaim his resurrection, we await his coming glory…

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever.  Amen

ONE: … The gifts of God for the people of God.

MANY: Thanks be to God.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION  

*HYMN (Blue #108; GTG #246)           “Christ is Alive!”         TRURO

1. Christ is alive! Let Christians sing. 

The cross stands empty to the sky.

Lets streets and homes with praises ring. 

Love, drowned in death, shall never die. 

2. Christ is alive! No longer bound 

to distant years in Palestine,

but saving, healing, here and now,

and touching every place and time. 

3. In every insult, rift, and war,

where color, scorn, or wealth divide,

Christ suffers still, yet loves the more,

and lives, where even hope has died. 

4. Women and men, in age and youth,

can feel the Spirit, hear the call,

and find the way, the life, the truth,

revealed in Jesus, freed for all. 

5. Christ is alive, and comes to bring,

good news to this and every age,

till earth and sky and ocean ring

with joy, with justice, love, and praise. 

*PARTING PRAYER

Glory to you, O God: you have won victory over death, raising Jesus from the grave and giving us eternal life. Glory to you, O Christ: for us and for our salvation you have overcome death and opened the gate to everlasting life. Glory to you, O Holy Spirit: you lead us into the truth. Glory to you, O Blessed Trinity, now and forever. Amen. 

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

*RESPONSE (Blue #113; GTG #245)       

“Christ the Lord is Risen Today!”       LLANFAIR

“Christ the Lord is risen today!” Al-le-lu-ia!

All creation, join to say: Al-le-lu-ia!

Raise your joys and triumphs high, Al-le-lu-ia!

Sing, O heavens, and earth reply, Al-le-lu-ia!

POSTLUDE  Christ the Lord is Risen Today arr. Carol Tornquist                     

*Note: the hymn lyrics in the bulletin and on the projection screen are from the Glory To God Hymnal (© 2013 Westminster John Knox Press), which we are transitioning to. Words in the “Blue” Presbyterian Hymnal (© 1990) in your pew may differ slightly.

Participating in today’s service are Rev. Aaron Ochart, Pastor; Louise Ochart, CE Leader; Kelly Cuppett, Music Director. Appreciation to Dennis Lauland. Mike Fortin, and David Garland for the video production of today’s service. 

The Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by Permission. All Rights Reserved. 

STAFF

to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring!

1 Thou art the King of Israel, thou David’s royal Son,

who in the Lord’s name comest, the King and blessed One. [Refrain]

2 The people of the Hebrews with palms before thee went;

our praise and prayers and anthems before thee we present. [Refrain]

3 To thee, before thy passion, they sang their hymns of praise;

to thee, now high exalted, our melody we raise. [Refrain]

4 Thou didst accept their praises;

accept the prayers we bring,

who in all good delightest, thou good and gracious King! [Refrain]

WORDS OF WELCOME

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP Psalm 118:26

ONE: Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the LORD.

MANY: Hosanna in the highest!

                                                   

PRAYER OF THE DAY 

Hosanna! King of all, you reign over all. Reign in our lives, triumph over evil and teach us to follow in your footsteps. Amen.

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN       

 CONFESSION 

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God of mercy, you sent Jesus Christ to seek and save the lost. We confess that we have strayed from you and turned aside from your way. We are misled by pride, for we see ourselves pure when we are stained, and great when we are small. We have failed in love, neglected justice, and ignored your truth. 

Have mercy, O God, and forgive our sins. Return us to paths of righteousness through Jesus Christ, our savior. Amen. 

KYRIE [GTG#577]

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Lord, have mercy. Lord have mercy. 

ASSURANCE OF PARDON                   

PROCLAMATION

FIRST LESSON                                                Mark 11:1-11

When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ just say this, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.’” They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it, some of the bystanders said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it. Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it; and he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting,

“Hosanna!

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!

Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David!

Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

CANTATA “The Passion Song”      by Lloyd Larson

Choir: Bill Bottomley, Lila Crotty, Sharon Fortin, Pat Ellzey, Will Ellzey, Cheryl Emery, Alice Hull, Linda Lowry, Aaron Ochart, Ron Palmisano, Renna Shows, Betty Wan, Theo Wan, Dee Watkins

Conductor: Kelly Cuppett Pianist: Tom Petterson

Movement I – Hosanna Intrada

Tune: ST. THEODULPH by Melchior Teschner (1584-1635)

arranged by Lloyd Larson

Narrator 1: The shouts of “Hosanna!” and “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” seemed to echo in the streets of Jerusalem for days as people prepared for the Passover Feast. It was now the first day of the Feast and Jesus’ disciples asked Him, “Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover meal?”

Narrator 2: Jesus said to them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him. Say to the owner of the house he enters, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ He will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there. 

Narrator 1: The disciples left, went into the city, and found everything just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared for the feast of the Passover Lamb.

Narrator 2: As evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve and they shared a feast of love. 

Narrator 1: While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, and broke it. Giving it to His disciples, He said, “Take it; this is my body broken for you.”

Narrator 2: Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and offered it to them. “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.”

Movement II – Feast of Love

Words and Music by Lloyd Larson

At the Lamb’s high feast of love, 

we praise our God who reigns above!

Praise the Servant who has gently led, 

who humbly shares the broken bread

at the Lamb’s high feast of love. 

Praise the One who by His love divine 

shares the cup of grace, the sacred wine,

at the Lamb’s high feast of love. 

“Remember me when you eat the bread, 

Remember me and the things I’ve said.

Remember me when you drink the cup.

Remember when I am lifted up 

I will draw the world unto me!

O children remember me.”

At the Lamb’s high feast of love, 

we praise our God who reigns above!

Praise the righteous One whom angels greet;

the King who kneels and washes feet 

at the Lamb’s high feast of love. 

Narrator 2: Following the meal, Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn and then went out to the Mount of Olives. 

Narrator 1: Having already told them that one of the Twelve would betray Him, Jesus now told them that they would all fall away. “For it is written,” He said, “I will strike the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered.”

Narrator 2: The prophecies of Jesus were to soon become reality as Judas, the betrayer, and a crowd armed with swords and clubs sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the Law, and the elders surrounded him. They seized and arrested Jesus. 

Narrator 1: They took him to a place where the religious leaders were gathered. Several of them made false accusations against Jesus. They condemned Him, saying He was worthy of death. 

Narrator 2: The religious leaders eventually reached a consensus. They bound Jesus, led Him away, and handed Him over to Pilate, the local Roman governor. As was customary at the Feast, the people were demanding the release of an imprisoned criminal named Barabbas. 

Narrator 1: Pilate asked the enraged crowd, “What shall I do, then, with the one you call King of the Jews?” “Crucify Him!” they shouted. “Crucify Him!”

Narrator 2: So Pilate had Jesus flogged, and handed Him over to be crucified. IN those few hours, the words of the prophet Isaiah were fulfilled. 

Narrator 1: He was despised and rejected: a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows. He was oppressed and afflicted; He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. 

Movement III – Song of Golgotha

Words and music by Lloyd Larson

Incorporating Tunes PASSION CHORALE and HERZLIEBSTER JESU

He was despised and rejected, scorned by His very own.

Yet He bore the cross of shame willingly.

He was pierced for our transgressions, broken and alone. 

Still, He chose to bear the cross for you and me. 

Surely, surely He has carried all our sorrows. 

Surely, surely He has born all our grief. 

He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not say a word. 

And He bore the lowly cross to Calvary.

Like a lamb led to slaughter, He was crushed and suffered.

See the sacrificial Lamb upon the tree. 

Surely, surely He has carried all our sorrows. 

Surely, surely He has borne all our grief. 

Ah, holy Jesus, how have You offended,

that the mortal judgment has on You descended?

By foes derided, by Your own rejected, O most afflicted!

Surely, surely He has carried all our sorrows,

and borne all our grief. 

Narrator 1: Jesus was led away. Roman soldiers put a purple robe on Him and then twisted together a crown of thorns which they placed upon His head. In mockery they called out to Him, “Hail King of the Jews!”

Narrator 2: They struck Jesus on the head with a staff, spat upon Him, and continued to mock Him by falling on their knees in fake homage to the holy Lamb of God. 

Narrator 1: Then they put His own clothes back on Him and led Jesus out to the place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). There He was crucified. 

Narrator 2: Those who passed by hurled insults at Jesus. Even those crucified with Him heaped insults on Him. 

Narrator 1: After several agonizing hours on the cross, with a loud cry, Jesus breathed His last. The Roman centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard His cry, and saw how He died. In awe and wonder he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”

Movement IV – Behold the Lamb

Words and music by Lloyd Larson

Incorporating tunes NEAR THE CROSS and WONDROUS LOVE

Behold the Lamb, behold the Lamb of God!

Behold the Lamb, the holy Lamb of God!

Behold the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. 

Behold the Lamb!

What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss 

to bear the dreadful curse for my soul? 

To God and to the Lamb I will sing, I will sing

to God and to the Lamb I will sing!

To God and to the Lamb, who is the great “I AM,”

while millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing. 

Behold the Lamb of God, behold the Lamb of God! 

Behold the Lamb, the holy Lamb of God!

Behold the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. 

Behold the Lamb! Behold the Lamb!

Narrator 2: Very early on the first day of the week following the Sabbath, just after sunrise, the women were on their way to the tomb. They asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb? 

Narrator 1: But as they looked up, they saw that the large stone had already been rolled away. They entered the tomb, and there they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side. They were very alarmed. 

 Narrator 2: But he said to them, “Do not be afraid! You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He is not here. He has risen! See the place where they laid Him. Now go and tell His disciples! Jesus is risen!”

Narrator 1: Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, worthy is the Lamb!

Narrator 2: He is worthy to receive power and wealth, wisdom and strength. He is worthy to receive honor glory and praise!

Narrator 1: Worthy is the Lamb!

Movement V – Resurrection Canticle

Words and Music by Lloyd Larson

Incorporating tune DIADEMATA

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, worthy is the Lamb!

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, the living Lamb of God. 

He’s worthy to receive power and wealth. 

He’s worthy of all wisdom and strength. 

He’s worthy of our honor and glory and praise!

Worthy is the Lamb! 

Crown him with many crowns, the Lamb upon His throne.

Hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns all music but its own. 

Awake, my soul, and sing of Him who died for thee,

and hail Him as thy matchless King through all eternity.

Crown Him the Lord of life, 

who triumphed o’er the grave,

and rose victorious in the strife for those He came to save. 

His glories now we sing, who died and rose on high,

who died eternal life to bring, and lives that death may die.

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain! Risen now, forever to reign!

Worthy is the living Lamb of God!

 RESPONSE     

*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH Nicene Creed

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. 

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY

*DOXOLOGY

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE 

THE LORDS’ PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

*HYMN [BLUE#85] [GTG#215]  What Wondrous Love is This

1 What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul,

what wondrous love is this, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss

to bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,

to bear the dreadful curse for my soul!

2 When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,

when I was sinking down, sinking down,

when I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,

Christ laid aside his crown for my soul, for my soul,

Christ laid aside his crown for my soul!

3 To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing,

to God and to the Lamb, I will sing;

to God and to the Lamb who is the great I AM,

while millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;

while millions join the theme, I will sing!

4 And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;

and when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on;

and when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be,

and through eternity, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;

and through eternity I’ll sing on.

*PARTING PRAYER

Gracious God, our way in the wilderness, guide us, by your Word, through these forty days, and minister to us with your Holy Spirit, so that we may be reformed, restored, and renewed; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

*RESPONSE [BLUE#599] [GTG#227]  Jesus, Remember Me,

Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. 

Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.

POSTLUDE         I Want Jesus to Walk with Me       arr. Jason Krug

*Note: the hymn lyrics in the bulletin and on the projection screen are from the Glory To God Hymnal (© 2013 Westminster John Knox Press), which we are transitioning to. Words in the “Blue” Presbyterian Hymnal (© 1990) in your pew may differ slightly.

Participating in today’s service are Rev. Aaron Ochart, Pastor; Louise Ochart, CE Leader; and Kelly Cuppett, Music Director. Appreciation to Dennis Lauland. Mike Fortin, and David Garland for the video production of today’s service. 

The Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by Permission. All Rights Reserved. 

STAFF

Change my heart, O God, may I be like you.

Chorus: You are the Potter; I am the clay.

Mold me and make me; this is what I pray.

Change my heart, O God; make it ever true.

Change my heart, O God, may I be like you.

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN        

RESPONSE [GTG#368] We Fall Down

We fall down We lay our crowns At the feet of Jesus

The greatness of Mercy and love At the feet of Jesus

And we cry holy, holy, holy. And We cry holy, holy, holy.

And We cry holy, holy, holy Is the Lamb

 CONFESSION 

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God of mercy, you sent Jesus Christ to seek and save the lost. We confess that we have strayed from you and turned aside from your way. We are misled by pride, for we see ourselves pure when we are stained, and great when we are small. We have failed in love, neglected justice, and ignored your truth. 

Have mercy, O God, and forgive our sin. Return us to paths of righteousness through Jesus Christ, our savior. Amen. 

KYRIE [GTG#577]

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Lord, have mercy. Lord have mercy. 

ASSURANCE OF PARDON                   

PROCLAMATION

FIRST LESSON                                                Mark 13:1-8, 24-37

As he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher, what large stones and what large buildings!” Then Jesus asked him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.”

When he was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately, “Tell us, when will this be, and what will be the sign that all these things are about to be accomplished?” Then Jesus began to say to them, “Beware that no one leads you astray. Many will come in my name and say, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed; this must take place, but the end is still to come. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. This is but the beginning of the birth pangs.

“But in those days, after that suffering,

the sun will be darkened,

and the moon will not give its light,

and the stars will be falling from heaven,

and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.

Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.

“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

“But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.”

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON       “Resurrection Life”             The Rev. Aaron Ochart

 RESPONSE     

*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH Apostles’ Creed

I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, 

And in Jesus Christ [God’s] only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.   

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY       “You Are My Refuge” by Michael John Trotta

*DOXOLOGY

REMEMBRANCE OF BAPTISM

ONE: The Lord be with you.

MANY: And also with you.

ONE: Lift up your hearts.

MANY: We lift them to the Lord.

ONE: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

MANY: It is right to give our thanks and praise.

LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

*HYMN: [BLUE #5] [GTG#347] Let All Mortal Flesh 

1 Let all mortal flesh keep silence,

and with fear and trembling stand;

ponder nothing earthly minded,

for with blessing in his hand

Christ our God to earth descendeth, our full homage to demand.

2 King of kings, yet born of Mary,

as of old on earth he stood,

Lord of lords, in human vesture,

in the body and the blood,

he will give to all the faithful

his own self for heavenly food.

3 Rank on rank the host of heaven

spreads its vanguard on the way,

as the Light of light descendeth

from the realms of endless day,

that the powers of hell may vanish

as the shadows clear away.

4 At his feet the six-winged seraph,

cherubim, with sleepless eye,

veil their faces to the presence,

as with ceaseless voice they cry,

“Alleluia, alleluia,

alleluia, Lord most high!”

*PARTING PRAYER

May the strength of God pilot us. May the power of God preserve us. May the wisdom of God instruct us. May the hand of God protect us. May the way of God direct us. May the shield of God defend us. May the host of God guard us against the snares of evil and the temptations of the world. May Christ be with us, Christ before us, Christ in us, Christ over us. May your salvation, O Lord, be always ours this day and forevermore. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

*RESPONSE [BLUE#599] [GTG#227]  Jesus, Remember Me

Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. 

Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.

POSTLUDE