JCPC Admin, Author at John Calvin Presbyterian Church

Order of Worship 8-06-23

Posted on Aug 3, 2023 in Announcements, Orders of Worship |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Tenth Sunday After Pentecost

August 6th, 2023 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart

Lay Leader: Mary Antil

Please silence all cell phones.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

Please stand, in body or spirit

THE PEOPLE ARE GATHERED IN

PRELUDE “Hope, Op. 38 No. 4” Felix Mendelssohn

PROCESSIONAL HYMN [BLUE#411] [GTG#744]

“Arise, Your Light is Come!”

1 Arise, your light is come! the Spirit’s call obey;

show forth the glory of your God, which shines on you today.

2 Arise, your light is come! Fling wide the prison door;

proclaim the captive’s liberty, good tidings to the poor.

3 Arise, your light is come! All you in sorrow born,

bind up the brokenhearted ones and comfort those who mourn.

4 Arise, your light is come! The mountains burst in song!

Rise up like eagles on the wing; God’s power will make us strong.

WORDS OF WELCOME

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP Micah 6:8 (MESSAGE)

ONE: God has already made it plain how to live, what to do, what GOD is looking for in men and women.

MANY: It’s quite simple. Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don’t take yourself too seriously- take God seriously.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God of the oppressed. You call us to righteousness in our relationships, to treat you, our friends, our family, and complete strangers well. You call us to justice, to be fair in our practices, and to treat everyone with equity. You call us to humility, not thinking of ourselves as better than others. You call us to work in the world for peace, justice, freedom, and human fulfillment. Help us to lives lives worthy of your gospel. In the name of Jesus Chirst, our Lord. Amen.

HYMN [BLUE #563] [GTG #339]

“Lift Every Voice and Sing”

1 Lift every voice and sing till earth and heaven ring,

ring with the harmonies of liberty.

Let our rejoicing rise high as the listening skies;

let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us;

sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us.

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,

let us march on, till victory is won.

2 Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod,

felt in the days when hope unborn had died.

Yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet

come to the place for which our parents sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered;

we have come, treading our path

through the blood of the slaughtered,

out of the gloomy past, till now we stand at last

where the white gleam of our bright star has cast.

3 God of our weary years, God of our silent tears,

thou who has brought us thus far on the way;

thou who hast by thy might led us into the light,

keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met thee;

lest, our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget thee;

shadowed beneath thy hand may we forever stand,

true to our God, true to our native land.

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

RESPONSE HYMN [GTG#749]

“Come!, Live in the Light!”

1 Come!, live in the light!

Shine with the joy and the love of the Lord!

We are called to be light for the kingdom,

to live in the freedom of the city of God.

We are called to act with justice; we are called to love tenderly;

we are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.

REPENTANCE

CALL TO CONFESSION

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God of grace, love, and communion, we confess that we have failed to love you with all our heart, soul, and mind; and to love our neighbor as ourselves. We ignore your commandments, stray from your way, and follow other gods. Have mercy on us. Forgive our sin and raise us to new life that we may serve you faithfully and give honor to your holy name. Amen

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

GLORIA PATRI [BLUE#579] [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.

THE WORD READ AND PROCLAIMED

SCRIPTURE [Pew Bible NT 53 or 57] Luke 1:46-55

And Mary said,

‘My soul magnifies the Lord,

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.

Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;

for the Mighty One has done great things for me,

and holy is his name.

His mercy is for those who fear him

from generation to generation.

He has shown strength with his arm;

he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,

and lifted up the lowly;

he has filled the hungry with good things,

and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel,

in remembrance of his mercy,

according to the promise he made to our ancestors,

to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’

[Pew Bible OT #816 or 866] Micah 6:1 – 7:7

Hear what the Lord says:

Rise, plead your case before the mountains,

and let the hills hear your voice.

Hear, you mountains, the controversy of the Lord,

and you enduring foundations of the earth;

for the Lord has a controversy with his people,

and he will contend with Israel.

‘O my people, what have I done to you?

In what have I wearied you? Answer me!

For I brought you up from the land of Egypt,

and redeemed you from the house of slavery;

and I sent before you Moses,

Aaron, and Miriam.

O my people, remember now what King Balak of Moab devised,

what Balaam son of Beor answered him,

and what happened from Shittim to Gilgal,

that you may know the saving acts of the Lord.’

‘With what shall I come before the Lord,

and bow myself before God on high?

Shall I come before him with burnt-offerings,

with calves a year old?

Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,

with tens of thousands of rivers of oil?

Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,

the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?’

He has told you, O mortal, what is good;

and what does the Lord require of you

but to do justice, and to love kindness,

and to walk humbly with your God?

The voice of the Lord cries to the city

(it is sound wisdom to fear your name):

Hear, O tribe and assembly of the city!

Can I forget the treasures of wickedness in the house of the wicked,

and the scant measure that is accursed?

Can I tolerate wicked scales

and a bag of dishonest weights?

Your wealthy are full of violence;

your inhabitants speak lies,

with tongues of deceit in their mouths.

Therefore I have begun to strike you down,

making you desolate because of your sins.

You shall eat, but not be satisfied,

and there shall be a gnawing hunger within you;

you shall put away, but not save,

and what you save, I will hand over to the sword.

You shall sow, but not reap;

you shall tread olives, but not anoint yourselves with oil;

you shall tread grapes, but not drink wine.

For you have kept the statutes of Omri

and all the works of the house of Ahab,

and you have followed their counsels.

Therefore I will make you a desolation, and your inhabitants an object of hissing;

so you shall bear the scorn of my people.

Woe is me! For I have become like one who,

after the summer fruit has been gathered,

after the vintage has been gleaned,

finds no cluster to eat;

there is no first-ripe fig for which I hunger.

The faithful have disappeared from the land,

and there is no one left who is upright;

they all lie in wait for blood,

and they hunt each other with nets.

Their hands are skilled to do evil;

the official and the judge ask for a bribe,

and the powerful dictate what they desire;

thus they pervert justice.

The best of them is like a brier,

the most upright of them a thorn hedge.

The day of their sentinels, of their punishment, has come;

now their confusion is at hand.

Put no trust in a friend,

have no confidence in a loved one;

guard the doors of your mouth

from her who lies in your embrace;

for the son treats the father with contempt,

the daughter rises up against her mother,

the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;

your enemies are members of your own household.

But as for me, I will look to the Lord,

I will wait for the God of my salvation;

my God will hear me.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON “Working in the World for Peace, Justice, Freedom, and Human Fulfillment” Reverend Ochart

RESPONSE

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH “A Brief Statement of Faith”- Jesus

In life and in death we belong to God. Through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, we trust in the one triune God, the Holy One of Israel, whom alone we worship and serve.

We trust in Jesus Christ, fully human, fully God. Jesus proclaimed the reign of God: preaching good news to the poor and release to the captives, teaching by word and deed and blessing the children, healing the sick and binding up the brokenhearted, eating with outcasts, forgiving sinners, and calling all to repent and believe the gospel. Unjustly condemned for blasphemy and sedition, Jesus was crucified, suffering the depths of human pain and giving his life for the sins of the world. God raised this Jesus from the dead, vindicating his sinless life, breaking the power of sin and evil, delivering us from death to life eternal.

With believers in every time and place, we rejoice that nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY “Hanna’s Song” Spoken Word

DOXOLOGY [*BLUE#592] [GTG#606]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures here below;

Praise God above, ye heavenly hosts;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

THE SACRAMENT OF 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: … Praise to you, Lord Jesus:

MANY: Dying you destroyed our death, rising you restored our life. Lord Jesus, come in 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.

HYMN [*BLUE #525] [GTG#69] “Here I Am, Lord”

1 Im the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry.

All who dwell in dark and sin my hand will save.

I, who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright.

Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send?

R: Here I am Lord, is it I Lord? I have heard you calling in the night.

I will go Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.

I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people’s pain.

I have wept for love of them. They turn away.

I will break their hearts of stone, give them hearts for love alone.

I will speak my word to them. Whom shall I send? (refrain)

3 I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame.

I will set a feast for them. My hand will save.

Finest bread I will provide till their hearts be satisfied.

I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? (refrain)

PARTING PRAYER

Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of your promises.

where we have been weak, grant us your strength;

where we have been confused, grant us your guidance;

where we have been distraught, grant us your comfort;

where we have been dead, grant us your life.

Apart from you, O Lord, we are nothing,

in and with you we can do all things. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

RESPONSE [GTG# 747] “The Lord Now Sends Us Forth”

The Lord now sends us forth with hands to serve and give,

to make of all the earth a better place to live.

The angels are not sent into our world of pain

to do what we were meant to do in Jesus’ name;

that falls to you and me and all who are made free.

Help us, O lord, we pray, to do your will today.

POSTLUDE

“Galante, Op. 5 No. 1” Enrique Granados

Announcements 8-06-23

Posted on Aug 3, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

Books on being Presbyterian: Would you like to get more familiar with the Presbyterian Churches beliefs? Do you have questions about our reformed tradition? Well you’re in luck because this month the Christian Education recommended reading list is all about what it means to be a Presbyterian. We are bringing you a list of four books that can help deepen your understanding of what it means to be a Presbyterian. This week’s recommendation is: The Presbyterian Handbook, Revised Edition: By Donald K. McKim. The Presbyterian Handbook, Revised Edition provides historical and up to date theological information about Presbyterian beliefs alongside fun-filled facts and practical tips on being a churchgoing follower of Jesus Christ. Complete with illustrations, the book presents a wonderful combination of vast truths, complex details, and bits of humor about Presbyterian understanding of the Christian life. This unique and incredibly handy resource is perfect for Presbyterian youth, adults, students, families, and all those interested in learning about much of what encompasses life in the church.

CHOIR IS COMING BACK: Choir rehearsals start this Sunday. Rehearsals will continue to be on Sundays after services and will finish no later than 1pm every week. We’ll start singing in services again on September 10th, the Sunday after Labor Day weekend. We would love to have you join us. Please see Kelly Cuppett for more information.

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES: We will be starting adult Sunday school in September. This year the CE Committee would like to try something new. We would like to offer several short classes taught by a variety of people. If you have ever thought about teaching a bible study but didn’t want to make a long term commitment this is for you. Choose a book, a study, or a topic you are interested in teaching and sign up using the insert in the bulletin or speak with Louise.

SAINTS and POTLUCKS: We are looking at scheduling Saints game potlucks for the noon games in Sept. and October. These events would be very easy with set-up and clean-up being done by those enjoying the game and taking place the day of the game. Those interested in participating would bring a dish to share and then head over to the fellowship hall after church to set up tables, chairs and potluck. After the game those involved would clean up. Louise can help set up activities for kids as well. We would love to find a sports enthusiast to head up these events. Please see Louise if you are interested.

Order of Worship 7-30-23

Posted on Jul 29, 2023 in Bulletin, Orders of Worship |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Ninth Sunday After Pentecost

July 30th, 2023 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart

Lay Leader: Sharon Fortin

Please silence all cell phones.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

Please stand, in body or spirit

THE PEOPLE ARE GATHERED IN

PRELUDE “Trumpet Processional in G” David German

PROCESSIONAL HYMN [BLUE# 420] [GTG#307]

“God of Grace and God of Glory”

1 God of grace and God of glory, on thy people pour thy power;

crown thine ancient church’s story; bring its bud to glorious flower.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

for the facing of this hour, for the facing of this hour.

2 Lo! the hosts of evil round us, scorn thy Christ, assail thy ways!

From the fears that long have bound us

free our hearts to faith and praise.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage

for the living of these days, for the living of these days.

3 Cure thy children’s waring madness; bend our pride to thy control;

shame our wanton, selfish gladness, rich in things and poor in soul.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

lest we miss thy kingdom’s goal, lest we miss thy kingdom’s goal.

4 Save us from weak resignation to the evils we deplore.

Let the gift of thy salvation be our glory evermore.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

serving thee whom we adore, serving thee whom we adore.

WORDS OF WELCOME

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP 2 Corinthians 5:19-20

ONE: In Christ, God was reconciling the world to himself.

MANY: So we are ambassadors of Christ.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God of exiles, you do not call us to be conformed to this present age, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. You call us to live out the gospel in our lives, bringing every aspect in line with your righteousness and grace. Help us to be ambassadors of your reconciling love in a world deeply divided. Amen.

HYMN [GTG 767]

“Together We Serve”

1 Together we serve, united by love,

inviting God’s world to the glorious feast.

We work and we pray through sorrow and joy,

extending God’s love to the last and the least.

2 We seek to become a beacon of hope,

a lamp for the heart and a light for the feet.

We learn, year by year, to let love shine through

until we see Christ in each person we meet.

3 We welcome the scarred, the wealthy, the poor,

the busy, the lonely, and all who need care.

We offer a home to those who will come,

our hands quick to help, our hearts ready to dare.

4 Together, by grace, we witness and work,

remembering Jesus, in whom we grow strong.

Together we serve in Spirit and truth,

remembering love is the strength of our song.

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

RESPONSE HYMN [Blue #356] [GTG#475]

“Come Thou Fount”

1 Come, thou Fount of every blessing;

tune my heart to sing thy grace;

streams of mercy, never ceasing,

call for songs of loudest praise.

Teach me some melodious sonnet,

sung by flaming tongues above;

praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it,

mount of God’s unchanging love!.

REPENTANCE

CALL TO CONFESSION

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

GLORIA PATRI [BLUE#579] [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.

THE WORD READ AND PROCLAIMED

SCRIPTURE [Pew Bible OT 475 or 502] Psalm 24

Of David. A Psalm.

The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,

the world, and those who live in it;

for he has founded it on the seas,

and established it on the rivers.

Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?

And who shall stand in his holy place?

Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,

who do not lift up their souls to what is false,

and do not swear deceitfully.

They will receive blessing from the Lord,

and vindication from the God of their salvation.

Such is the company of those who seek him,

who seek the face of the God of Jacob.

Selah

Lift up your heads, O gates!

and be lifted up, O ancient doors!

that the King of glory may come in.

Who is the King of glory?

The Lord, strong and mighty,

the Lord, mighty in battle.

Lift up your heads, O gates!

and be lifted up, O ancient doors!

that the King of glory may come in.

Who is this King of glory?

The Lord of hosts,

he is the King of glory.

Selah

[Pew Bible NT #687 or 731] Jeremiah 29:1-14

These are the words of the letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the remaining elders among the exiles, and to the priests, the prophets, and all the people, whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. This was after King Jeconiah, and the queen mother, the court officials, the leaders of Judah and Jerusalem, the artisans, and the smiths had departed from Jerusalem. The letter was sent by the hand of Elasah son of Shaphan and Gemariah son of Hilkiah, whom King Zedekiah of Judah sent to Babylon to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. It said: Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let the prophets and the diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream, for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, says the Lord.

For thus says the Lord: Only when Babylon’s seventy years are completed will I visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place. For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.

[Pew Bible NT #151 or 161] Romans 12:1-2, 9-21

I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect…

Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’ No, ‘if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON “Living Responsibly in the Personal, Family, Vocational, Political, Cultural, and Social Relationships of Life” Reverend Ochart

RESPONSE

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH “A Brief Statement of Faith”- God

We trust in God, whom Jesus called Abba, Father. In sovereign love God created the world good and makes everyone equally in God’s image, male and female, of every race and people, to live as one community. But we rebel against God; we hide from our Creator. Ignoring God’s commandments. We violate the image of God in others and ourselves, accept lies as truth, exploit neighbor and nature, and threaten death to the planet entrusted to our care. We deserve God’s condemnation. Yet God acts with justice and mercy to redeem creation. In everlasting love, the God of Abraham and Sarah chose a covenant people to bless all families of the earth. Hearing their cry, God delivered the children of Israel from the house of bondage. Loving us still, God makes us heirs with Christ of the covenant. Like a mother who will not forsake her nursing child, like a father who runs to welcome the prodigal home, God is faithful still.

With believers in every time and place, we rejoice that nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY “Just a Closer Walk With Thee”

DOXOLOGY [*BLUE#592] [GTG#606]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures here below;

Praise God above, ye heavenly hosts;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

HYMN [*BLUE 333] [GTG#175] “Seek Ye First”

Seek ye first the Kingdom of God

And it’s righteousness

And all these things shall be added unto you

Allelu Alleluia

Ask and it shall be given unto you

Seek and you shall find

Knock and it shall be opened unto you

Allelu Alleluia

You shall not live by bread alone, but by every word

That proceeds from the mouth of God. Allelu Alleluia

PARTING PRAYER

Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of your promises.

where we have been weak, grant us your strength;

where we have been confused, grant us your guidance;

where we have been distraught, grant us your comfort;

where we have been dead, grant us your life.

Apart from you, O Lord, we are nothing,

in and with you we can do all things. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

RESPONSE [*Blue#432] [GTG# 765] “Song of Hope” English then Spanish

May the God of hope go with us every day,

filling all our lives with love and joy and peace.

May the God of justice speed us on our way,

bringing light and hope to every land and race.

Praying, let us work for peace; singing, share our joy with all;

Working for a world that’s new, faith-ful when we hear Christ’s Call

¡Dios de la esperanza, danos gozo y paz!

Al mundo en crisis, habla tu verdad.

Dios de la justicia, mándanos tu luz,

Luz y esperanza en la oscuridad.

Oremos por la paz, cantemos de tu amor,

luchemos por la paz, fieles a ti, Señor.

POSTLUDE “This Little Light of Mine”

Announcements 7-30-23

Posted on Jul 29, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS: Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or Amazon. Many of these books even have discussions topics and questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out the books. Our second book recommendation is:Ten Essential Strategies for Becoming a Multiracial Congregation by Jacqueline J. Lewis And John Janka: How do churches build immunity from racial and ethnic tensions that threaten to divide rather than unite congregations?

Jacqui Lewis and John Janka believe that the answer lies in the development of multiracial, multicultural communities of faith. Born of the authors’ work with The Middle Project, an institute that prepares ethical leaders for a more just society, this book is a collection of wisdom and best practices. Here you will find lessons, questions for conversation, and spaces for journaling.

In welcoming communities of faith where everyone is accepted just as they are, we can lead the way toward racial reconciliation and dismantle the prejudices that segregate our houses of worship.

WORK DAY: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

FAVORITE HYMN: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

BIRTHDAYS: Jeff Ferguson 7/31, Janet Capiton 8/2, Randall Antill 8/2

Order of Worship 07-23-23

Posted on Jul 22, 2023 in Bulletin, Orders of Worship |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Eighth Sunday After Pentecost

July 23rd, 2023 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart

Guest Preacher: Caroline Kothari

Please silence all cell phones.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

Please stand, in body or spirit

THE PEOPLE ARE GATHERED IN

PRELUDE Beside the Still Waters by Gwyneth Walker

PROCESSIONAL HYMN [BLUE# 377] [GTG#721]

“Lord You Have Come to the Lakeshore”

1 Lord, you have come to the lakeshore

looking neither for wealthy nor wise ones;

you only asked me to follow humbly.

Chorus: O Lord, with your eyes you have searched me,

and while smiling have spoken my name;

now my boat’s left on the shoreline behind me;

by your side I will seek other seas.

3 You need my hands, full of caring

through my labors to give others rest,

and constant love that keeps on loving. (Chorus)

WORDS OF WELCOME

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP Matthew 25

ONE: I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me,

MANY: I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God of the poor, you see the suffering of your children, and provide for them through the hands of your children. You call us as servants, always ready to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, free the captive and enslaved, bind up the brokenhearted, and visit those confined. You so identify with the needs of your children that when we serve them, we are serving you. Help us to respond to your ongoing activity in the world through our service to others. Amen.

HYMN [*BLUE 343] [GTG 761]

“Called as Partners in Christ’s Service”

Called as partners in Christ’s service, called to ministries of grace,

We respond with deep commitment fresh new lines of faith to trace.

May we learn the art of sharing, side by side and friend with friend,

Equal partners in our caring to fulfill God’s chosen end.

Christ’s example, Christ’s inspiring,

Christ’s clear call to work and worth

let us follow, never faltering, reconciling folk on earth.

Men and women, richer, poorer, all God’s people young and old,

blending human skills together gracious gifts from God unfold.

Thus new patterns for Christ’s mission, in a small or global sense,

help us bear each other’s burdens, breaking down each wall or fence.

Words of comfort, words of vision, words of challenge said with care,

bring new power and strength for action,

make us colleagues free and fair.

So God grant us for tomorrow ways to order human life

that surround each person’s sorrow with a calm that conquers strife.

Make us partners in our living, our compassion to increase,

messengers of faith, thus giving hope and confidence and peace.

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

RESPONSE HYMN [GTG#727]

“Will You Let Me Be Your Servant”

Will you let me be your servant, let me be as Christ to you?

Pray that I may have the grace to let you be my servant too.

REPENTANCE

CALL TO CONFESSION

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

GLORIA PATRI [BLUE#579] [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.

THE WORD READ AND PROCLAIMED

SCRIPTURE [Pew Bible OT 647 or 688] Isaiah 58:6-11

Is not this the fast that I choose:

to loose the bonds of injustice,

to undo the thongs of the yoke,

to let the oppressed go free,

and to break every yoke?

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,

and bring the homeless poor into your house;

when you see the naked, to cover them,

and not to hide yourself from your own kin?

Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,

and your healing shall spring up quickly;

your vindicator shall go before you,

the glory of the Lord shall be your rearguard.

Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;

you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am.

If you remove the yoke from among you,

the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil,

if you offer your food to the hungry

and satisfy the needs of the afflicted,

then your light shall rise in the darkness

and your gloom be like the noonday.

The Lord will guide you continually,

and satisfy your needs in parched places,

and make your bones strong;

and you shall be like a watered garden,

like a spring of water,

whose waters never fail.

[Pew Bible NT #27 or 29] Matthew 25:31-46

‘When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left. Then the king will say to those at his right hand, “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” Then the righteous will answer him, “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?” And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Then he will say to those at his left hand, “You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.” Then they also will answer, “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?” Then he will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.” And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.’

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON Responding to God’s Activity in the World Through Service to Others” Caroline Kothari

RESPONSE

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH “A Brief Statement of Faith”- Spirit

We trust in God the Holy Spirit everywhere the giver and renewer of life. The Spirit justifies us by grace through faith, sets us free to accept ourselves and to love God and neighbor, and binds us together with all believers in the one body of Christ, the Church. The same Spirit who inspired the prophets and apostles rules our faith and life in Christ through Scripture, engages us through the Word proclaimed, claims us in the waters of baptism, feeds us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation, and calls women and men to all ministries of the Church. In a broken and fearful world the Spirit gives us courage to pray without ceasing, to witness among all peoples to Christ as Lord and Savior, to unmask idolatries in Church and culture, to hear the voices of peoples long silenced, and to work with others for justice, freedom, and peace. In gratitude to God, empowered by the Spirit, we strive to serve Christ in our daily tasks and to live holy and joyful lives, even as we watch for God’s new heaven and new earth, praying, “Come, Lord Jesus!

With believers in every time and place, we rejoice that nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah J. Hughes, arr. V. Labenske

DOXOLOGY [*BLUE#592] [GTG#606]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures here below;

Praise God above, ye heavenly hosts;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

HYMN [*BLUE339] [GTG#450]

“Be Thou My Vision”

Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;

naught be all else to me, save that thou art;

though my best thought, by day or by night,

waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.

Be thou my wisdom, and thou my true Word;

I ever with thee and thou with me, Lord;

thou my soul’s shelter and thou my high tower;

raise thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor vain, empty praise;

thou mine inheritance, now and always;

thou and thou only, first in my heart,

High King of Heaven, my treasure thou art.

High King of Heaven, my victory won,

may I reach heaven’s joy, O bright heaven’s Sun!

Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,

still be my vision, O Ruler of all.

PARTING PRAYER

Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of your promises.

where we have been weak, grant us your strength;

where we have been confused, grant us your guidance;

where we have been distraught, grant us your comfort;

where we have been dead, grant us your life.

Apart from you, O Lord, we are nothing,

in and with you we can do all things. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

RESPONSE [*Blue#432] [GTG# 765] “Song of Hope”

May the God of hope go with us every day,

filling all our lives with love and joy and peace.

May the God of justice speed us on our way,

bringing light and hope to every land and race.

Praying, let us work for peace; singing, share our joy with all;

Working for a world that’s new, faith-ful when we hear Christ’s Call

¡Dios de la esperanza, danos gozo y paz!

Al mundo en crisis, habla tu verdad.

Dios de la justicia, mándanos tu luz,

Luz y esperanza en la oscuridad.

Oremos por la paz, cantemos de tu amor,

luchemos por la paz, fieles a ti, Señor.

POSTLUDE

Toccata in e

Pachelbel

ANNOUNCEMENTS 7-23-23

Posted on Jul 22, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS: Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or Amazon. Many of these books even have discussions topics and questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out the books. Our second book recommendation is:Neighborhood Church Transforming Your Congregation into a Powerhouse for Mission by Krin Van Tatenhove Rob Mueller: How can we embody the values of love, grace, and justice? As faith communities, how can our collective embodiment of these values shine even brighter?

The answers to these questions must always unfold right here, right now, exactly where God has planted us. Neighborhood Church acts as a resource to inspire churches to become a vibrant and engaging community partner with the families and neighborhoods living around them. Congregational decline continues across all mainline denominations. Van Tatenhove and Mueller believe that, parish by parish, we can reverse this trend. They dare to have an audacious hope for local congregations not only as signs of God’s kingdom but as life-giving institutions that anchor their neighborhoods. Drawing on their combined sixty years of parish experience, wisdom from Asset-Based Community Development, and compelling case stories, Van Tatenhove and Mueller do more than just call us to incarnational ministry. They give practical, essential tools.

GLASS RECYCLING: Ever wish you could recycle your glass jars instead of tossing them in the trash. Well you are in luck. Kelly and Sam are collecting glass to be recycled by the Glass Half Full, a company that recycles glass to be used as sand in duster relief and coastal restoration. Please make sure all glass is rinsed out with no lids and place it in the bin in the Choir Room.

PRAYER GROUPS: Our prayer group will continue to meet in July before worship at 10:10 AM. Each group will meet for about 15 min. The group leader will give a short lesson on prayer. Then the group will pray together for a specific area, ministry, or group of people.

FAVORITE HYMN: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

YAV CLOSING WORSHIP, VOLUNTEER CLEANING DAY, WISHLIST: It’s Been a wonderful year but it’s time to say goodbye to our amazing YAV’s. There will be a closing worship service at Lakeview Presbyterian Church, July 25th at 6:00 PM. On July 29th from 9am-noon, please join the YAV’s for a deep clean of the beloved “Big Green House” at 4225 Franklin Ave, New Orleans. All ages of cleaners are welcome! Inside we will clean the floors, appliances, windows, and furniture. Outside we’ll weed, mow, and rake gravel. YAV Site Coordinator Dan Wally Lang will coordinate volunteer signup, supplies, and snacks. RSVP via email at dan@pbysouthla.org. For the coming year NOLA YAV is delighted to welcome three Young Adult Volunteers from Scotland! Because they will be traveling internationally we hope to provide the following household items in gently used or new condition: 3 sets twin Linens/comforter, 3 pillows, 2 bicycles (Medium, large) 3 umbrellas, sunscreen, bug spray, twin memory foam mattress topper, shampoo, and conditioner. Please contact dan@pbysouthla.org if you can provide any of the following items by August 20, 2023.

Announcements 7-16-23

Posted on Jul 16, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS: Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or amazon. Many of these books even have discussions topics and questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out the books. Our second book recommendation is:Sailboat Church: Helping Your Church Rethink Its Mission and Practice By Joan S. Gray: Is your church a rowboat church or a sailboat church?

Rowboat churches depend largely on human effort. When church budgets shrink and membership declines, rowboat churches frantically row harder against a current, often frustrated and disappointed at their efforts. Sailboat churches, on the other hand, take up the oars, hoist sails, and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide them.

Arguing that churches should be “sailboats,” Joan S. Gray encourages readers to shift concern from the many daily, practical concerns of their local church to fresh ideas that can be found using the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The book includes forty days of sailing prayers, quotes from Scripture, brief reflection questions, and an extensive bibliography that is arranged by theme. Perfect for groups to read together, this book will help leaders reframe their church’s mission and practice with the Holy Spirit as their guide.

GOODBYE to SAM: Sam Garnett, our Music Director and organist for the last three years, has been offered a new position. His last Sunday with us will be July 30th. Kelly Cuppett will continue as music staff.

VBS VOLUNTEERS: It’s Summer and that means VBS is right around the corner. We already have 30 kids signed up and hope to get more. As always we can’t do this wonderful program without lots of help. Please use the link, QR code, or insert in the bulletin to sign up to help. We would love to have anyone and everyone that wants to help, even if you can’t volunteer everyday. We are especially looking for group leaders, an adult activity leader (possible only two days), Bible/Story leader, Snacks coordinator and teens to help with the groups. Please use this link https://bit.ly/JCPCVBS23Volunteers or the insert in the Bulletin to sign up to help.

FAVORITE HYMN: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

. For the coming year NOLA YAV is delighted to welcome three Young Adult Volunteers from Scotland! Because they will be traveling internationally we hope to provide the following household items in gently used or new condition: 3 sets twin Linens/comforter, 3 pillows, 2 bicycles (Medium, large) 3 umbrellas, sunscreen, bug spray, twin memory foam mattress topper, shampoo, and conditioner. Please contact dan@pbysouthla.org if you can provide any of the following items by August 20, 2023

worship 7-16-23

Posted on Jul 14, 2023 in Bulletin, Orders of Worship |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Seventh Sunday After Pentecost

July 16th, 2023 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart

Liturgist: Ron Palmisano

Please silence all cell phones.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

Please stand, in body or spirit

THE PEOPLE ARE GATHERED IN

PRELUDE “Under the Green Tree” Sweelinck

PROCESSIONAL HYMN [GTG#749] “Come, Live in the Light!”

Come, live in the light! Shine with the joy and the love of the Lord

We are called to be light for the kingdom

To live in the freedom of the city of God

Chorus: We are called to act with justice; We are called to love tenderly;

We are called to serve one another, To walk humbly with God.

2.Come, open your heart! Show your mercy to all those in fear!

We are called to be hope for the hopeless

So hatred and violence will be no more (chorus)

Sing, sing a new song! Sing of that great day when all will be one!

God will reign and we’ll walk with each other

As sisters and brothers united in love (chorus)

WORDS OF WELCOME

MINUTE FOR THE CHURCH VBS

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP 2 Corinthians 16-17

ONE: From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way.

MANY: So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see everything has become new!

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Jesus Christ, you have come to give us life, a life overflowing with your grace. You call us to right relationship and action with God, with one another, and with all creation. But we too easily fall back into the patterns of this world, exploiting neighbor and nature for our own ends. We do not always live as your servant people, or display the unity that we have in you. Help us to demonstrate a new quality of life both within the church, and in the world around us. Amen.

HYMN [GTG 319] Men of Faith Rise Up And Sing

Men of faith rise up and sing of the great and glorious King.

You are strong when you feel weak; in your brokenness complete.

Refrain: Shout to the north and the south,

sing to the east and the west.

Jesus is savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth.

Rise up women of the truth. Stand and sing to broken hearts

who can know the healing power of our awesome King of love. (Refrain)

Bridge: We’ve been through fire; we’ve been through rain;

we’ve been refined by the power of your name.

We’ve fallen deeper in love with you.

You’ve burned the truth on our lips. (Refrain)

Rise up, church, with broken wings; fill this place with songs again

of our God who reigns on high; by God’s grace again we’ll fly. (Refrain)

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

RESPONSE HYMN [GTG#300]

“We are One in the Spirit”

We are one in the Spirit; we are one in the Lord;

We are one in the Spirit; we are one in the Lord,

and we’ll pray that all unity may one day be restored:

And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love;

yes they’ll know we are Christians by our love.

REPENTANCE

CALL TO CONFESSION

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

GLORIA PATRI [BLUE#579] [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.

THE WORD READ AND PROCLAIMED

SCRIPTURE [Pew Bible OT 543 or 575] Psalm 133

A Song of Ascents.

How very good and pleasant it is

when kindred live together in unity!

It is like the precious oil on the head,

running down upon the beard,

on the beard of Aaron,

running down over the collar of his robes.

It is like the dew of Hermon,

which falls on the mountains of Zion.

For there the Lord ordained his blessing,

life for evermore.

[Pew Bible NT #114 or 122] Deuteronomy 14:1-8, 22-23, 15:1-5

You are children of the LORD your God. You must not lacerate yourselves or shave your forelocks for the dead. For you are a people holy to the LORD your God; it is you the LORD has chosen out of all the peoples on earth to be his people, his treasured possession.

You shall not eat any abhorrent thing. These are the animals you may eat: the ox, the sheep, the goat, the deer, the gazelle, the roebuck, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope, and the mountain-sheep. Any animal that divides the hoof and has the hoof cloven in two, and chews the cud, among the animals, you may eat. Yet of those that chew the cud or have the hoof cloven you shall not eat these: the camel, the hare, and the rock-badger, because they chew the cud but do not divide the hoof; they are unclean for you. And the pig, because it divides the hoof but does not chew the cud, is unclean for you. You shall not eat their meat, and you shall not touch their carcasses.

Set apart a tithe of all the yield of your seed that is brought in yearly from the field. In the presence of the LORD your God, in the place that he will choose as a dwelling for his name, you shall eat the tithe of your grain, your wine, and your oil, as well as the firstlings of your herd and flock, so that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always.

Every seventh year you shall grant a remission of debts. And this is the manner of the remission: every creditor shall remit the claim that is held against a neighbor, not exacting it from a neighbor who is a member of the community, because the LORD’s remission has been proclaimed. From a foreigner you may exact it, but you must remit your claim on whatever any member of your community owes you. There will, however, be no one in need among you, because the LORD is sure to bless you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you as a possession to occupy, if only you will obey the LORD your God by diligently observing this entire commandment that I command you today.

[Pew Bible NT #181 or 192] Ephesians 2:1-10

You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. All of us once lived among them in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of flesh and senses, and we were by nature children of wrath, like everyone else. But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness towards us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— not the result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON “Demonstrating a New Quality of Life Within and Through the Church” the Rev. Aaron Ochart

RESPONSE

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH “A Brief Statement of Faith”- Jesus

With believers in every time and place, we rejoice that nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us

B. Bradbury, arr. V. Labenske

DOXOLOGY [*BLUE#592] [GTG#606]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures here below;

Praise God above, ye heavenly hosts;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

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.

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# 442] [GTG#321]

“The Church’s One Foundation”

1 The church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord.

She is his new creation by water and the word.

From heaven he came and sought her to be his holy bride.

With his own blood he bought her, and for her life he died.

2 Elect from every nation, yet one o’er all the earth,

her charter of salvation: one Lord, one faith, one birth.

One holy name she blesses, partakes one holy food,

and to one hope she presses, with every grace endued.

3 Though with a scornful wonder this world sees her oppressed,

by schisms rent asunder, by heresies distressed,

yet saints their watch are keeping; their cry goes up: “How long?”

And soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song.

4 Mid toil and tribulation, and tumult of her war,

she waits the consummation of peace forevermore:

till with the vision glorious her longing eyes are blest,

and the great church victorious shall be the church at rest.

5 Yet she on earth has union with God, the Three in One,

and mystic sweet communion with those whose rest is won:

O happy ones and holy! Lord, give us grace that we,

like them, the meek and lowly, may live eternally.

PARTING PRAYER

Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of your promises.

where we have been weak, grant us your strength;

where we have been confused, grant us your guidance;

where we have been distraught, grant us your comfort;

where we have been dead, grant us your life.

Apart from you, O Lord, we are nothing,

in and with you we can do all things. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

RESPONSE [*Blue#432] [GTG# 765] “Song of Hope”

(1st time in Spanish, 2nd Time in English)

¡Dios de la esperanza, danos gozo y paz!

Al mundo en crisis, habla tu verdad.

Dios de la justicia, mándanos tu luz,

Luz y esperanza en la oscuridad.

Oremos por la paz, cantemos de tu amor,

luchemos por la paz, fieles a ti, Señor.

May the God of hope go with us every day,

filling all our lives with love and joy and peace.

May the God of justice speed us on our way,

bringing light and hope to every land and race.

Praying, let us work for peace; singing, share our joy with all;

Worship Service 7-9-23

Posted on Jul 6, 2023 in Bulletin |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Sixth Sunday After Pentecost

July 9th, 2023 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart

Liturgist: Bill Bottomley

Organist: Robert Mouledoux

Please silence all cell phones.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

✝ Please stand, in body or spirit

THE PEOPLE ARE GATHERED IN

PRELUDE

✝PROCESSIONAL HYMN [GTG#697]

“Take My Life”

1 Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to thee;

take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise;

let them flow in ceaseless praise.

2 Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love;

take my feet and let them be swift and beautiful for thee,

swift and beautiful for thee.

4 Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold;

take my intellect and use every power as thou shalt choose,

every power as thou shalt choose.

6 Take my love; my Lord, I pour at thy feet its treasure store;

take myself and I will be ever, only, all for thee,

ever, only, all for thee.

WORDS OF WELCOME

MINUTE FOR THE CHURCH VBS

CALL TO WORSHIP Luke 6:38

ONE: Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap;

MANY: for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God of abundance, you have given us more than we could ask for or deserve. You have given us each minute, hour, day, and year. You have given us abilities, passions, talents, and weaknesses. You have given us money, resources, influence, and relationships. You call us to recognize all that we have, and to share it with others. To offer ourselves as a living sacrifice to be your people here and now, this is our spiritual act of worship. In the name of Jesus Christ who gave all for us. Amen.

✝HYMN [*Blue #375] [GTG#711] “Lord of All Good”

1. Lord of all good, our gifts we bring to you;

Use them your holy purpose to fulfill;

Tokens of love and pledges brought anew,

That our whole life is offered to your will.

2. We give our mind to understand your ways;

hands, eyes, and voice to serve your great design;

Heart with the flame of your own love ablaze,

Till for your glory all our powers combine.

3. Father, whose bounty all creation shows;

Christ, by whose willing sacrifice we live;

Spirit, from whom all life in fullness flows,

To you with grateful hearts ourselves we give.

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

RESPONSE HYMN [Blue #369] [GTG#700]

“I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me”

I’m gonna live so God can use me anywhere, Lord, anytime!

REPENTANCE

CALL TO CONFESSION

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

✝GLORIA PATRI [BLUE#579] [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.

THE WORD READ AND PROCLAIMED

SCRIPTURE [Pew Bible OT 474 or 501] Psalm 23

A Psalm of David.

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures;

he leads me beside still waters;

he restores my soul.

He leads me in right paths

for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,

I fear no evil;

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff—

they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies;

you anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

all the days of my life,

and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord

my whole life long.

[Pew Bible NT #173 or 183] 2 Corinthians 9:6-15

The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. As it is written,

‘He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor;

his righteousness endures for ever.’

He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God. Through the testing of this ministry you glorify God by your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ and by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others, while they long for you and pray for you because of the surpassing grace of God that he has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

[Pew Bible NT #151 or 161] Romans 12:1-8

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON “Supporting the Church Through the Giving of Money, Time, and Talents” the Rev. Aaron Ochart

RESPONSE

✝AFFIRMATION OF FAITH “A Brief Statement of Faith”- Spirit

With believers in every time and place, we rejoice that nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY

✝DOXOLOGY [*BLUE#592] [GTG#606]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures here below;

Praise God above, ye heavenly hosts;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

✝HYMN [*Blue #514] [GTG#526]

“Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ”

1 Let us talents and tongues employ, reaching out with a shout of joy:

bread is broken; the wine is poured;

Christ is spoken and seen and heard.

Refrain: Jesus lives again; earth can breathe again;

pass the Word around: loaves abound!

2 Christ is able to make us one; at the table he sets the tone,

teaching people to live to bless,

love in word and in deed express. [Refrain]

3 Jesus calls us in, sends us out bearing fruit in a world of doubt,

gives us love to tell, bread to share:

God (Immanuel) everywhere! [Refrain]

✝PARTING PRAYER

Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of your promises.

where we have been weak, grant us your strength;

where we have been confused, grant us your guidance;

where we have been distraught, grant us your comfort;

where we have been dead, grant us your life.

Apart from you, O Lord, we are nothing,

in and with you we can do all things. Amen.

✝CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

✝RESPONSE[*Blue#432][GTG# 765] “Song of Hope”

May the God of hope go with us every day,

filling all our lives with love and joy and peace.

May the God of justice speed us on our way,

bringing light and hope to every land and race.

Praying, let us work for peace; singing, share our joy with all;

Working for a world that’s new, faith-ful when we hear Christ’s Call

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; Sam Garnett, Music Director; and Kelly Cuppett, Assistant 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.

Announcements 7-9-23

Posted on Jul 6, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS: Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or amazon. Many of these books even have discussions topics and questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out the books. Our second book recommendation is: Authentic Congregations By Willam Hopper

Using case studies of authentic congregations–diverse Presbyterian congregations that are responding creatively and effectively in their social contexts–William Hopper draws insights for all congregations desiring more lively worship, service, and witness. He offers wisdom for congregations about how to engage controversial issues and develop faithful ministries in challenging times.

PRAYER GROUPS: Our prayer groups will continue to meet in July, but before church instead of after. Each group will meet for about 15 min. The group leader will give a short lesson on prayer. Then the group will pray together for a specific area, ministry, or group of people. Sign up to be a leader or participant using the insert in the Bulletin. Place the insert in the offering plate or give it to Louise after the service.

GOODBYE to SAM: Sam Garnett, our organist for the last three years, has been offered a new position. His last Sunday with us will be July 30th. Kelly Cuppett will continue as music staff.