Order of Worship 12_12_21

Posted on Dec 12, 2021 in Bulletin, HomePage, Orders of Worship |

Christmas Cantata

December 12, 2021   Third Sunday of Advent

   Ten Thirty in the morning

Ministers: The Rev Susan Lassalle The Reverend Aaron Ochart                            

Bold face indicates congregational participation.          

🔔 indicates to stand in body or in spirit

GATHERING

WORDS OF WELCOME

PRELUDE                                    Partita on ES IST EIN ROS                        

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP (Lighting the Advent Candles)

Candle Lighter: Why am I worried? 

Fathers and Grandfathers: Why do I worry about what I will wear, or how many gifts I have to buy? 

Mothers and Grandmothers: Why am I buying gifts? Because I have to? Or out of love? 

Children and youth: Do I have enough? What can I share? 

(Light the candle)

(Video) Matthew 1:21-23 

“She will give birth to a son, and you will call him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”  Now all of this took place so that what the Lord had spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled: 

Look! A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, 

And they will call him, Emmanuel. 

(Emmanuel means “God with us.”)”

Readers: God has given us so much, yet we insist on acquiring more. 

Choir: God doesn’t ask for things, God asks for our hearts. 

Congregation: I can give something more valuable than a box, that costs less and means more. Let us pray 

Great joy giver, you  have given us all that we need to flourish as your children. Help us find the deep joy  that comes not from treasure, but from you. Amen.

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION (unison)

Merciful God, in your gracious presence we confess our sin and the sin of this world. Although Christ is among us as our peace, we are a people divided against ourselves as we cling to the values of a broken world. The profit and pleasures we pursue lay waste the land and pollute the seas. The fears and jealousies that we harbor set neighbor against neighbor and nation against nation. We abuse your good gifts of imagination and freedom, of intellect and reason, and have turned them into bonds of oppression. Lord, have mercy upon us; heal and forgive us. Set us free to serve you in the world as agents of your reconciling love in Jesus Christ.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON                     

🔔GLORIA PATRI

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

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

world without end, amen, amen. 

🔔HYMN                       “My Soul Cries Out With a Joyful Shout”   

  1. My soul cries out with a joyful shout that the God of my heart is great, 

and my spirit sings of the wondrous things that you bring to the ones who wait.

You fixed your sight on your servant’s plight, and my weakness you did not spurn, 

so from east and west shall my name be blest. Could the world be about to turn?

Refrain: My heart shall sing of the day you bring. 

Let the fires of your justice burn.

Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near, 

and the world is about to turn.

  1. Though I am small, my God my all, you work great things in me, 

and your mercy will last from the depths of the past to the end of the age to be.

Your very name puts the proud to shame, and to those who would for you yearn,

you will show your might, put the strong to flight, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. From the halls of power to the fortress tower, not a stone will be left on stone.

Let the king beware for your justice tears every tyrant from his throne.

The hungry poor shall weep no more, for the food they can never earn;

there are tables spread; every mouth be fed, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. Though the nations rage from age to age, we remember who holds us fast:

God’s mercy will deliver us from the conqueror’s crushing grasp.

This saving word that our forebears heard is the promise which holds us bound, 

till the spear and rod can be crushed by God, who is turning the world around. (Refrain)

PROCLAMATION

THE CHILDREN’S MESSAGE: 

SCRIPTURE READING                             Isaiah 55:1-13

CHRISTMAS CANTATA         “Night of the Father’s Love”                    by Pepper Choplin

Narration: Louise Ochart, Joseph Palermo, and David Russo

Choir:Bill Bottomly, Sandy Cranfill, Sharon Fortin, Sam Garnett, Aaron Ochart, Paula Palermo, Ron Palmisano, Evelyn Tobey, Ann Trapani

“The Coming of the Lord”

Lift up your heads O gates, and make the highway straight,

Prepare to celebrate the coming of the Lord.

Your waiting soon will end, God’s glory will descend,

Rise up and welcome in the coming of the Lord!

Prepare the way for the coming of the Lord!

The ancient words foretell, God with us, He will dwell,

Christ, our Emanuel, and all will see the glory of the Lord!

O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel.

And then the deaf will hear, the blind will see Him clear,

The mute will find their voice, the lame will leap for joy,

Prepare the way for the coming of the Lord!

“Waiting”

We gather here to prepare the way for the coming of the Lord. We come to remember when God visited the earth in the form of a child. And we meet to worship the Lord and celebrate the new life he offers us. We pray that we will experience God’s presence in a fresh way. This is the true meaning of Christ’s birth. The angel said that he would be “Emmanuel,” which means, “God with us”. God is always with us. But when we welcome His Spirit into our hearts and minds, we experience the comfort and power of God’s presence. 

Before Christ came into the world, God’s people awaited his arrival for centuries. So now, we wait- that God will move among us as we listen to the story of the Christmas miracle. The psalmist said, “…the Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him, it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.” Come… let us be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. 

Waiting, we are waiting, Lord. Waiting, we are waiting, Lord. Fill our mind ‘til we find Your light, Your truth.

Now let us know Your presence, Lord, Emmanuel, God, be with us. 

We welcome you with open hearts, Emmanuel, God be with us. God be with us, Emmanuel. 

Listening, we are listening, Lord. Listening, we are listening, Lord. Draw us near, let us hear Your Word for us. 

Now let us know your presence, Lord, Emmanuel, God be with us. 

We welcome you with open hearts, Emmanuel, God be with us. God be with us. Emmanuel.

Patience, give us patience, Lord. Patience, give us patience, Lord. 

When we pray, give us faith that You hear ev’ry prayer. As we’re waiting… We are waiting… Waiting.

Angels are Making Their Rounds

Narration: While the world waited, the Spirit of God was stirring. Angels began to appear and brought messages to earth as they prepared for Christ’s birth. And the angel said to Mary, Then the angel of the Lord appeared to Zechariah. Behold, the angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Fear not…” “Fear not, Zechariah, your prayer has been heard.” “…fear not, Joseph, to take Mary as your wife…” “Fear not, Mary, for you have found favor with God.” “Zechariah, your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name, John.” “And behold, Mary, you will conceive in your womb, and you shall bring forth a son…” “…and she shall bring forth a son…” “…and you shall bring forth a son, and shall call his name Jesus.” “…and you shall call his name Jesus.”

Angels are making their rounds, O what a beautiful sound, angels are making their rounds.

Fear not Zechariah, for the Lord has heard your prayer. Elizabeth will bear a son.

Hail, O blessed one, you have favor with God. 

Angels are making their rounds, O my, what a beautiful sound. 

Heaven’s glory comes down when angels are making their rounds.

Fear not, Joseph, go and take Mary to be your wife, for she carries a holy Child.

Unto you is born a Savior, glory to God and peace on earth,for now the Lord is with you. 

Angels are making their rounds, O my, what a beautiful sound. 

Heaven’s glory comes down when angels are making their rounds.

“Night of the Father’s Love”

Of the Father’s love begotten, ere the worlds began to see,

He is Alpha and Omega.  He the source, the ending He.

Of the things that are, that have been and the future years shall see,

Evermore and evermore.

Silent night! Holy night.  All is calm, all is bright

Round yon virgin mother and Child, holy Infant, so tender and mild.

Sleep in heavenly peace.  

“The Shepherd’s Song”

While shepherd’s watched their flocks by night, all seated on the ground,

The angel of the Lord came near and glory shone around.

He said, “Fear not for I bring good news, it shall be for all people.

For unto you is born this day a Savior, Christ the Lord.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

For unto you is born this day, there, in Bethlehem,

A Savior, who is Christ the Lord, and this shall be your sign:

And this shall be the sign to you: for you shall find the baby,

there, all wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger.”

The angel then was surrounded by a great and glorious throng,

And while the shepherds watched by night, the angels raised their song:

Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

“Seeking the King”

Seeking, seeking the newborn King.

The road is dark, the dust is dry.  We find our path by star-light.

We are seeking the King.

Though we are tired, the journey’s long, we walk in faith to carry on.

We bring gold to crown Him with royalty,

Frankincense to show His divinity. 

We bring myrrh, the fragrance used when someone dies,

Though we’re not sure the reason why.

Now, we are so tired, we’ve come so far,

But now, once again, we see the star,

Now we rejoice with great joy,

We’re rejoicing, now we see the star of wonder, star of night,

Star of royal beauty bright.  Westward leading, still proceeding,

Guide us to Thy perfect light.

And when we find the newborn King, our greatest gift we then shall bring

When we worship the King.  We’ll worship the newborn King.

“Fall on Your Knees”

Come see the Child, He is here by the fire,

Silently come, draw near the manger side.

Look in His face and see the world’s salvation,

And feel the holy peace, fall on your knees.

Open your eyes, now the holy star is rising,

Rays of the light will shine to touch your soul.

Open your heart to the glory and the wonder.

Feel the holy peace, fall on your knees.

Fall on your knees!  O hear the angel voices!

O night divine, O night when Christ was born.

Come now, and fall on your knees as you worship in His presence.

Thanks be to God you have found the holy Child.

Blessed are all who have seen the Lord’s salvation.

Come and lift your voice.  Let your heart rejoice

And praise the Prince of peace, fall on your knees.

“Christ is Born, Nowell!”

Hark!  The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King.”

Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.

Nowell! Heaven’s angel come to tell, “Christ is born, Nowell!”

Angels we have heard on high, sweetly singing o’er the plains,

and the mountains in reply echoing their joyous strains.

Nowell!  Joyous news we come to tell, “Christ is born, Nowell.”

“Now Christ is born!  Now all is well!”

Hail the heav’n born Prince of Peace!  Hail the Son of Righteousness!

Light and life to all He brings, ris’n with healing in His wings.

Mild He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die,

Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth.

Hark!  The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King.”

 RESPONSE 

🔔AFFIRMATION OF FAITH                                              Heidelberg Catechism: BOC 4.001                

Q1: What is your only comfort, in life and in death?

A1: 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.

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY                            “O Come All Ye Faithful”                         Arr. Patricia Cota

Handbells: Bill Bottomley, Sandy Cranfill, Sharon Fortin, Cindy Fredenthal, Karla Russo, and Ann Trapani

🔔DOXOLOGY

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. 

🔔HYMN 5                       “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence”

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. 

  1. King of kings yet born of Mary, as of old on earth he stood,

Lord of Lords inhuman vesture, in the body and the blood,

he will give to all the faithful his own self for heavenly food.  

  1. 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.

  1. At his feet the six-winged seraph, cherubim with ceaseless eye,

veil their faces to the presence, as with ceaseless voice their cry,

“Alleluia, aleluia, alleluia Lord most high!”

PARTING PRAYER                                                                    Prayer of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32)

Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light of revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE         Carillon from 24 Pieces en style libre (excerpt) – Louis Vierne 


Second Sunday of Advent; December 5th

Posted on Dec 5, 2021 in Bulletin, Orders of Worship |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

December 5, 2021   Second Sunday of Advent

   Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: The Reverend Aaron Ochart                            Liturgist: Suzanne Wooderson

Bold face indicates congregational participation.          🔔 indicates to stand in body or in spirit

GATHERING

WORDS OF WELCOME

PRELUDE         From Heaven to Earth I Come – Pachelbel                          

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP (Lighting the Advent Candles)

Candle Lighter: What is this season about?

Children and youth: Why do I have so many things? 

Choir, Minister and Lay Leader: Where did it all come from? 

All: And I don’t know where to put it all. 

Light the candle 

(Video) Matthew 6:19-21 “Stop collecting treasures for your own benefit on earth, where moth and rust eat them and where  thieves break in and steal them. Instead, collect treasures for yourselves in heaven, where moth and  rust don’t eat them and where thieves don’t break in and steal them. Where your treasure is, there your  heart will be also.” 

Candle Lighter: I have so much more than things. 

Congregation: I have talents and time to share with everyone. 

All: We can give so much more while spending less. 

Let us pray: Prince of peace, we fill our lives with anxiety so that we are always in battle. Come among us today,  remind us of what is necessary, and give us grateful hearts. Amen.

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION (unison)

Merciful God, in your gracious presence we confess our sin and the sin of this world. Although Christ is among us as our peace, we are a people divided against ourselves as we cling to the values of a broken world. The profit and pleasures we pursue lay waste the land and pollute the seas. The fears and jealousies that we harbor set neighbor against neighbor and nation against nation. We abuse your good gifts of imagination and freedom, of intellect and reason, and have turned them into bonds of oppression. Lord, have mercy upon us; heal and forgive us. Set us free to serve you in the world as agents of your reconciling love in Jesus Christ.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON                     

🔔GLORIA PATRI

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

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

world without end, amen, amen. 

🔔HYMN                                           “My Soul Cries Out With a Joyful Shout”   

  1. My soul cries out with a joyful shout that the God of my heart is great, 

and my spirit sings of the wondrous things that you bring to the ones who wait.

You fixed your sight on your servant’s plight, and my weakness you did not spurn, 

so from east and west shall my name be blest. Could the world be about to turn?

Refrain: My heart shall sing of the day you bring. Let the fires of your justice burn.

Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near, and the world is about to turn.

  1. Though I am small, my God my all, you work great things in me, 

and your mercy will last from the depths of the past to the end of the age to be.

Your very name puts the proud to shame, and to those who would for you yearn,

you will show your might, put the strong to flight, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. From the halls of power to the fortress tower, not a stone will be left on stone.

Let the king beware for your justice tears every tyrant from his throne.

The hungry poor shall weep no more, for the food they can never earn;

there are tables spread; every mouth be fed, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. Though the nations rage from age to age, we remember who holds us fast:

God’s mercy will deliver us from the conqueror’s crushing grasp.

This saving word that our forebears heard is the promise which holds us bound, 

till the spear and rod can be crushed by God, who is turning the world around. (Refrain)

PROCLAMATION

FIRST READING (p. 105)                                                                                                        John 11:17-27

THE CHILDREN’S MESSAGE:     

ANTHEM                                      Little Drop of Heaven- Pepper Choplin

Let a little drop of heaven fall to earth.   Bring peace to this world.

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring peace, sweet peace.

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring peace to this world. 

Let peace come, Your will be done, let it be done on this earth as it is in heaven.

Let peace come, Your will be done. Let it be done. 

Let Your peace come down from heaven to this world. We pray for peace. 

Let a little drop of heaven fall to earth.  Bring love, true love. 

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth. Bring love to this world.  Bring peace to this world.

Let love come, Your will be done, let it be done on this earth as it is in heaven.

Let your love come down from heaven to this world.  We pray for love.

 

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring joy, sweet joy.

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring joy to this world.

Let a little drop of heaven come down.  Bring peace, love and joy to this world.

SECOND READING (p. 806)                   Ezekiel 37:1-14

SERMON:              “Deez Bones”    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 alone we must worship, and in whom alone we must 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 Spirit; 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 his inscrutable providence for such end as his eternal wisdom, goodness, and justice have appointed, and to the manifestation of his own glory.

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY                              “Sing of Mary, Pure and Holy”                                 Arr. Matthew Armstrong

 🔔DOXOLOGY

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. 

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

The Great Prayer of Thanksgiving

   The Lord be with you. And also with you.

   Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

   Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise…

…Therefore with all creation we sing your praise:

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…

According to Christ’s commandment:

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

The gifts of God for the people of God.

Thanks be to God.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION  

🔔HYMN 260                                       “A Mighty Fortress is our God”

1 A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing. Our helper he, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.

For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe. 

His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal.

2 Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,

were not the right man on our side, the man of God’s own choosing.

Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is he.

Lord Sabaoth his name, from age to age the same, and he must win the battle.

3 And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,

we will not fear, for God hath willed his truth to triumph through us.

The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him.

His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure. One little word shall fell him.

4 That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth.

The Spirit and the gifts are ours through him who with us sideth.

Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also.

The body they may kill; God’s truth abideth still. His kingdom is forever.

PARTING PRAYER                                                                    Prayer of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32)

Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light of revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE             “A Mighty Fortress”                                                                                           Walcha
 

First Sunday of Advent- November 28, 2021

Posted on Dec 2, 2021 in Worship Service Videos |


December 2021 Newsletter

Posted on Dec 2, 2021 in Newsletter |


Order of Worship 12_05_21

Posted on Dec 2, 2021 in Bulletin, HomePage |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

December 5, 2021   Second Sunday of Advent

   Ten Thirty in the morning

                                    Minister: The Reverend Aaron Ochart                           

Liturgist: Suzanne Wooderson

Bold face indicates congregational participation        

  🔔 indicates to stand in body or in spirit

GATHERING

WORDS OF WELCOME

PRELUDE         From Heaven to Earth I Come – Pachelbel                          

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP (Lighting the Advent Candles)

Candle Lighter: What is this season about?

Children and youth: Why do I have so many things? 

Choir, Minister and Lay Leader: Where did it all come from? 

All: And I don’t know where to put it all. 

Light the candle 

(Video) Matthew 6:19-21 “Stop collecting treasures for your own benefit on earth, where moth and rust eat them and where  thieves break in and steal them. Instead, collect treasures for yourselves in heaven, where moth and  rust don’t eat them and where thieves don’t break in and steal them. Where your treasure is, there your  heart will be also.” 

Candle Lighter: I have so much more than things. 

Congregation: I have talents and time to share with everyone. 

All: We can give so much more while spending less. 

Let us pray: Prince of peace, we fill our lives with anxiety so that we are always in battle. Come among us today,  remind us of what is necessary, and give us grateful hearts. Amen.

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION (unison)

Merciful God, in your gracious presence we confess our sin and the sin of this world. Although Christ is among us as our peace, we are a people divided against ourselves as we cling to the values of a broken world. The profit and pleasures we pursue lay waste the land and pollute the seas. The fears and jealousies that we harbor set neighbor against neighbor and nation against nation. We abuse your good gifts of imagination and freedom, of intellect and reason, and have turned them into bonds of oppression. Lord, have mercy upon us; heal and forgive us. Set us free to serve you in the world as agents of your reconciling love in Jesus Christ.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON                     

🔔GLORIA PATRI

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

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

world without end, amen, amen. 

🔔HYMN                                           “My Soul Cries Out With a Joyful Shout”   

  1. My soul cries out with a joyful shout that the God of my heart is great, 

and my spirit sings of the wondrous things that you bring to the ones who wait.

You fixed your sight on your servant’s plight, and my weakness you did not spurn, 

so from east and west shall my name be blest. Could the world be about to turn?

Refrain: My heart shall sing of the day you bring. Let the fires of your justice burn.

Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near, and the world is about to turn.

  1. Though I am small, my God my all, you work great things in me, 

and your mercy will last from the depths of the past to the end of the age to be.

Your very name puts the proud to shame, and to those who would for you yearn,

you will show your might, put the strong to flight, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. From the halls of power to the fortress tower, not a stone will be left on stone.

Let the king beware for your justice tears every tyrant from his throne.

The hungry poor shall weep no more, for the food they can never earn;

there are tables spread; every mouth be fed, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. Though the nations rage from age to age, we remember who holds us fast:

God’s mercy will deliver us from the conqueror’s crushing grasp.

This saving word that our forebears heard is the promise which holds us bound, 

till the spear and rod can be crushed by God, who is turning the world around. (Refrain)

PROCLAMATION

FIRST READING (p. 105)                                                                                                        John 11:17-27

THE CHILDREN’S MESSAGE:     

ANTHEM                                      Little Drop of Heaven- Pepper Choplin

Let a little drop of heaven fall to earth.   Bring peace to this world.

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring peace, sweet peace.

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring peace to this world. 

Let peace come, Your will be done, let it be done on this earth as it is in heaven.

Let peace come, Your will be done. Let it be done. 

Let Your peace come down from heaven to this world. We pray for peace. 

Let a little drop of heaven fall to earth.  Bring love, true love. 

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth. Bring love to this world.  Bring peace to this world.

Let love come, Your will be done, let it be done on this earth as it is in heaven.

Let your love come down from heaven to this world.  We pray for love.

 

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring joy, sweet joy.

Let a little drop of heaven come to earth.  Bring joy to this world.

Let a little drop of heaven come down.  Bring peace, love and joy to this world.

SECOND READING (p. 806)                   Ezekiel 37:1-14

SERMON:              “Deez Bones”    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 alone we must worship, and in whom alone we must 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 Spirit; 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 his inscrutable providence for such end as his eternal wisdom, goodness, and justice have appointed, and to the manifestation of his own glory.

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY                              “Sing of Mary, Pure and Holy”                                 Arr. Matthew Armstrong

 🔔DOXOLOGY

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. 

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

The Great Prayer of Thanksgiving

   The Lord be with you. And also with you.

   Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

   Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise…

…Therefore with all creation we sing your praise:

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…

According to Christ’s commandment:

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

The gifts of God for the people of God.

Thanks be to God.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION  

🔔HYMN 260                                       “A Mighty Fortress is our God”

1 A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing. Our helper he, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.

For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe. 

His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal.

2 Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,

were not the right man on our side, the man of God’s own choosing.

Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is he.

Lord Sabaoth his name, from age to age the same, and he must win the battle.

3 And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,

we will not fear, for God hath willed his truth to triumph through us.

The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him.

His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure. One little word shall fell him.

4 That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth.

The Spirit and the gifts are ours through him who with us sideth.

Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also.

The body they may kill; God’s truth abideth still. His kingdom is forever.

PARTING PRAYER                                                                    Prayer of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32)

Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light of revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE             “A Mighty Fortress”                                                                                           Walcha

Order of Worship; November, 28, 2021- First Sunday pf Advent

Posted on Nov 27, 2021 in Bulletin, Orders of Worship |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

First Sunday of Advent

November 28, 2021      Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: The Reverend Aaron Ochart                            Liturgist: Dennis McCrea

Bold face indicates congregational participation.         🔔 indicates to stand in body or in spirit

 

GATHERING

WORDS OF WELCOME

PRELUDE: “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent” Henry Colemen

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP (Lighting the Advent Candles)

Candle Lighters: What is worship? 

Choir, Lay Leader and Minister: Is it something we do once a week? 

Children and youth: Is it about us or about God? 

(Light the candle) 

(video) Luke 2:16-20 The shepherds went quickly and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. When they  saw this, they reported what they had been told about this child. Everyone who heard it was amazed at  what the shepherds told them. Mary committed these things to memory and considered them carefully.  The shepherds returned home, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. 

Women and girls: We worship the Creator, the Messiah, the wind of the Spirit, the newborn King. 

Men and boys: We worship with all that we are and all that we have, our hearts, our minds, our souls  and our strength. 

Congregation: Worship is here, and we worship everywhere, bringing to others the good news of the  Prince of Peace. 

Let us pray: Creator of all, as we begin this holy season, filled with the hope of the coming of the Messiah, quiet our  hearts and minds that we may worship you fully, love you more dearly and see you more clearly. Amen.🔔 HYMN: “My Soul Cries Out With a Joyful Shout”  STAR OF THE COUNTY DOWN

  1. My soul cries out with a joyful shout that the God of my heart is great,

and my spirit sings of the wondrous things that you bring to the ones who wait.

You fixed your sight on your servant’s plight, and my weakness you did not spurn, 

so from east and west shall my name be blest. Could the world be about to turn?

Refrain: My heart shall sing of the day you bring. Let the fires of your justice burn.

Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near, and the world is about to turn.

  1. Though I am small, my God my all, you work great things in me, 

and your mercy will last from the depths of the past to the end of the age to be.

Your very name puts the proud to shame, and to those who would for you yearn,

you will show your might, put the strong to flight, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. From the halls of power to the fortress tower, not a stone will be left on stone.

Let the king beware for your justice tears every tyrant from his throne.

The hungry poor shall weep no more, for the food they can never earn;

there are tables spread; every mouth be fed, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)

  1. Though the nations rage from age to age, we remember who holds us fast:

God’s mercy will deliver us from the conqueror’s crushing grasp.

This saving word that our forebears heard is the promise which holds us bound, 

till the spear and rod can be crushed by God, who is turning the world around. (Refrain)

THE CHILDREN’S MESSAGE: “ The Waiting Place”

ANTHEM: “Long ago, Prophets Knew” Arranged by Lloyd Larson

Long ago, prophets knew Christ would come, born a Jew, come to make all things new,

bear his people’s burden, freely love and pardon. 

God in time, God in man, this is God’s timeless plan: He will come, as a man, 

born himself of woman, God divinely human.

Ring bells ring! Sing choir sing! When he comes, who will make him welcome?

Mary hail! though afraid, she believed, and she obeyed. In her womb, God is laid 

till the time expected, nurtured and protected. 

Journey ends! Where afar, Bethl’hem shines, like a star, stable door stands ajar 

unborn Son of Mary, Savior do not tarry!

READING: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-14 (p. 731)

HOMILY: “Wait” the Rev. Aaron Ochart

INVITATION TO CELEBRATE A GOOD ADVENT

One: Advent means waiting. As God’s people waited for deliverance, as they waited through exiles and occupations for the coming of David’s Son; so we wait for Christ to come afresh in our lives, and God’s Kingdom to be revealed. 

Many: Come thou long expected Jesus, born to set thy people free.

THE SANCTUARY EVERGREENS/ WREATHS

ONE: How Shall we make this place a reminder of our need for repentance, and that faithfulness and integrity comes from God our maker and redeemer?

MANY: Let us hang garlands and wreaths as Hosea speaks the word of God. 

READING: Hosea 14:8-9

O Ephraim, what have I to do with idols? It is I who answer and look after you. I am like an evergreen cypress; your faithfulness comes from me. Those who are wise understand these things; those who are discerning know them. For the ways of the Lord are right, and the upright walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them.

THE CHRISTMAS TREE

One: God, the Holy one of Israel, is a God of comfort and compassion. With the Christmas tree we remember God’s everlasting promises to the poor and needy. Isaiah spoke of God’s making of the wilderness a place of blessing where water and plants, even pine trees, would manifest God’s loving action to save and provide. 

MANY: God’s Love is everlasting, Christ is everliving.  

READING: Isaiah 41:17-20

When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst, I the Lord will answer them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. I will open rivers on the bare heights, and fountains in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water. I will put in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive; I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane and the pine together, so that all may see and know, all may consider and understand, that the hand of the Lord has done this, the Holy One of Israel has created it.

HANGING CHRISMONS AND OTHER SYMBOLS OF FAITH

One: Here in this place we prepare for the coming of the Lord. Here we will remember his Advent, his birth in Bethlehem, weak and helpless as an infant. And here we rekindle our prayer, “Come, Lord Jesus” as we await his coming as the bright and morning star. 

Many: Hang symbols and signs of Christ: ruler, prophet, priest. Hang stars, crosses, triangles, the ‘alpha’ and the ‘omega’ to remind us of his identity, his story, and of the holy Trinity. 

READING: Revelation 22:12-21

‘See, I am coming soon; my reward is with me, to repay according to everyone’s work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.’ Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they will have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates. Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and fornicators and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. ‘It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.’

The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come.’

And let everyone who hears say, ‘Come.’

And let everyone who is thirsty come.

Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift…

The one who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’

People: Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!

The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all the saints. Amen.               

EXPLANATION OF OTHER SYMBOLS

 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.

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY

🔔DOXOLOGY     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               

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 9: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” VENI EMMANUEL

  1. O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that mourns in lowly exile here until the Son of God appear. 

Refrain: Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. 

  1. O come, O come, thou Lord of might, who to thy tribes on Sinai’s hight 

in ancient times didst give the law in cloud and majesty and awe. (Refrain)

  1. O Come, thou root of Jesse, free thine own from Satan’s tyranny; 

from depths of hell thy people save and give them victory over the grave. (Refrain)

  1. O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer our spirits by thine advent here;

disperse the gloomy clouds of night, and death’s dark shadows put to flight. (Refrain)

  1. O come, Desire of nations, bind all peoples in one heart and mind; 

bid envy, pride, and discord cease; fill the whole world with heaven’s peace. (refrain) 

🔔PARTING PRAYER: Prayer of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32)

Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light of revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” Garnett                 


Order of Worship 11_14_21

Posted on Nov 14, 2021 in Bulletin, HomePage |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

25th Sunday after Pentecost

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (USA)

November 14, 2021 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: The Reverend Aaron Ochart             

Liturgist: Lynn Sens

Please silence all cell phones. 

Face masks are to be worn by all participants unless leading worship.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

* Please stand, in body or spirit

GATHERING

WORDS OF WELCOME           

PRELUDE     Chaconne in F Minor by Pachelbel

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                    Isa. 12:2         

ONE: Surely God is our salvation;

MANY: Trust in the Lord and do not be afraid.                                                       

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God of all people, Show us how to let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an every-flowing stream. Create justice and righteousness in us, that all may rejoice in your blessings. Amen.

HYMN                              “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.  

  1. 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. 

  1. 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.

  1. We gather, 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. 

 CONFESSION 

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love. We have not loved our neighbors, and we have refused to hear the cry of the needy.

Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

ASSURANCE OF PARDON                     

GLORIA PATRI 579 

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

FIRST LESSON                                                          John 7:10-18, 37-44                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN    

ANTHEM                             Author of Justice                      Jordan/Larson

Author of justice, on time’s endless page, 

Your theme is justice in race, creed and age;                                                                                  Justice for women, for children, for men.  

Stewards of justice, we pledge our “Amen.”                                                                                        Where there is someone unfairly accused, 

where there is strength and in power abused,                                                                                   Where prejudice lives, and dignity dies, 

lead us to action courageous and wise.                                                                                                 Let it be written we sang freedom’s song, 

challenging rights that are morally wrong.                                                                                      From rage and chaos, to hope and control, 

Author of justice, heal our wounds, make us whole.                                                                             Friends of the helpless, of victims in need, 

foes of intolerance, hatred and greed;                                                                                             May we move mountains, as faith lights our way.  

Brighter tomorrows are born of today.                                                                                           Author of justice, your message impart, 

till loving kindness redeems ev’ry heart;                                                                                                     And earth embraces her new destiny,

 justice for everyone with true equity.  Amen.

 

        

SECOND LESSON                                         Amos 1:1-2; 5:14-15, 21-24

The words of Amos, who was among the shepherds of Tekoa, which he saw concerning Israel in the days of King Uzziah of Judah and in the days of King Jeroboam son of Joash of Israel, two years before the earthquake. And he said: The Lord roars from Zion, and utters his voice from Jerusalem; the pastures of the shepherds wither, and the top of Carmel dries up.

Seek good and not evil, that you may live; and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, just as you have said. Hate evil and love good,

and establish justice in the gate; it may be that the Lord, the God of hosts, will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph.

I hate, I despise your festivals, and I take no delight in your solemn assemblies. Even though you offer me your burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them; and the offerings of well-being of your fatted animals. I will not look upon. Take away from me the noise of your songs; I will not listen to the melody of your harps. But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.

      

SERMON                         “Empty Devotion”               Rev. Aaron Ochart 

 RESPONSE     

*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH                   Brief Statement of Faith: Lines 1-8, 20-26, 27-27-41, 52-57, 77-80

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 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. 

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.

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.

 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.

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY      “God of Wonders” arr. Carol Tornquist             

*DOXOLOGY

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. 

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE 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 434          “Today We All Are Called to Be Disciples”

  1. Today we are all called to be Disciples of the Lord,

To help to set the captives free, Make plow-share out of sword,

To feed the hungry, quench their thirst, Make love and peace our fast,

To serve the poor and homeless first, Our ease and comfort last.

  1. God made the world and at its birth Ordained our human race

To live as stewards of the earth, Responding to God’s grace.

But we are vain and sadly proud, We sow not peace but strife,

Our discord spreads a deadly cloud That threatens all of life.

  1. Pray justice may come rolling down As in a mighty stream,

With righteousness in field and town To cleanse us and redeem.

For God is longing to restore An earth where conflicts cease,

A world that was created for A harmony of peace.

  1. May we in service to our God Act out the living word,

And walk the road the saints have trod Till all have seen and heard.

As stewards of the earth may we Give thanks in one accord

To God who calls us all to be Disciples of the Lord.

PARTING PRAYER               Thomas Merton

Almighty God, we thank you for all the gifts You have given us: our lives, our loved ones, all that we have and all that we are. Most of all, we thank You for Jesus, your Son and our Redeemer, who came among us to show us the way to eternal life. Jesus was the perfect steward of your gifts, showing that complete trust in You is necessary, and that giving of self is a most important part of following Him. May the offerings of our time, our talents, and our material resources be made in the same spirit of sacrifice that Jesus taught us by His life and death for us.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE     Toccata in C                        


Order of Worship 11_07_2021

Posted on Nov 4, 2021 in Bulletin, HomePage |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

24th Sunday after Pentecost

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (USA)

November 7, 2021 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: The Reverend Aaron Ochart             

Liturgist: Lenny Nelson

Please silence all cell phones. 

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

* Please stand, in body or spirit

GATHERING

WORDS OF WELCOME    

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF NATIVE LANDS

PRELUDE               “Celtic Blessing” by Jeff Perks

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP 

ONE: Let us call upon the one who knows every thread in the fabric of our lives.

MANY: God of every seam and stitch, gather and mend us.

ONE: Let us call upon the one who embroiders new designs, who weaves new textiles with patience and delight.

MANY: God of every seam and stitch, gather and mend us.

ONE: Let us call upon the one who patches worn places with compassion.

MANY: God of every seam and stitch, gather and mend us.

ONE: We are the tapestry of God, each strand important to the pattern, each frayed end worth the mending, every thread a treasure.

MANY: May we hope in these words, may harmony be our mending.

ONE: Let us worship our God! 

HYMN OF THE MONTH     “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.  

  1. 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. 

  1. 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.

  1. We gather, 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. 

PROCLAMATION

FIRST LESSON                                                               John 12:27-36

 “Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say—‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for mine. Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to indicate the kind of death he was to die. The crowd answered him, “We have heard from the law that the Messiah remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?” Jesus said to them, “The light is with you for a little longer. Walk while you have the light, so that the darkness may not overtake you. If you walk in the darkness, you do not know where you are going. While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light.” 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN    

ANTHEM                  “Softly and Tenderly”               Charles McCartha

Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me.

With open arms He is waiting and watching, watching for you and for me.

Come home, come home, you who are weary, come home.

Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling, calling, “O sinner, come home!”

Why should we linger when Jesus is pleading, 

pleading for you and for me?

Why turn away when He offers His mercy, mercy for you and for me?

Come home, come home, you who are weary, come home.

Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling, calling, “O sinner, come home!”

O for the wonderful love He has promised, promised for you and for me!

Though we have sinned He brings mercy and pardon, 

pardon for you and for me.

Come home, come home, you who are weary, come home.

Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling, calling, “O sinner, come home!”

SECOND LESSON                                                       1 Kings 19:1-18

ONE: The Words of God for the People of God

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON       “What Are You Doing Here?”          Rev. Aaron Ochart 

 RESPONSE   

PRAYER OF BLESSING                                                                        

ONE: O Lord, bless the signs of our heritage we have presented today and bless the people of the clans and families which they signify. May we strive to live up to the very highest ideals they represent.

MANY: Bless us that we may be a blessing, O Lord.

ONE: We thank you, God, for your Word which has ordained a rich heritage of faith and sacrifice from our ancestors: from Adam to Noah, from Noah to Abraham, from Abraham to David, so onward to the incarnation of Jesus, to the establishment of his church: our brothers and sisters in Christ everywhere. Never let us forget that a heritage of faith is a joy to be shared.

MANY: Bless us that we may be a blessing, O Lord.

ONE: Thank you, O God, for the blessings of family; the warmth, comfort, and security of family love. Never let us forget that our family love is a gift to be shared with kin and stranger.

MANY: Bless us that we may be a blessing, O Lord.

ONE: We praise you, O God, for those who have lived and died in Christ. We especially those who have died in the last year: Randall Patrick Antill, Dorothy Egan, Alba Hill, James Kennedy III, Julie Laporte, Eloyease Lybrand, The Rev. Michael Benjamin Mann, Bill Memmott, Mildred Miley, Joann Chastain Nunguesser, and Charlotte Diane Parry.

MANY: Bless us that we may be a blessing, O Lord.

ONE: On behalf of all clans, families, and nations, we stand before God in gratitude for our heritage, and we pray God’s blessings on all beloved children in all lands.

MANY: We proclaim that we are united in the covenant of Jesus, the Christ, for there is but one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all. Amen.

*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH                               Confession of Belhar

We believe that God has entrusted the church with the message of reconciliation in and through Jesus Christ; 

that the church is called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, that the church is called blessed because it is a peacemaker, that the church is witness both by word and by deed to the new heaven and the new earth in which righteousness dwells…

that the credibility of this message is seriously affected and its beneficial work obstructed when it is proclaimed in a land which professes to be Christian, but in which the enforced separation of people on a racial basis promotes and perpetuates alienation, hatred and enmity…

Therefore, we reject any doctrine which, in such a situation sanctions in the name of the gospel or of the will of God the forced separation of people on the grounds of race and color and thereby in advance obstructs and weakens the ministry and experience of reconciliation in Christ. 

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY          

*DOXOLOGY

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. 

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

The Great Prayer of Thanksgiving

   The Lord be with you.

       And also with you.

   Lift up your hearts.

        We lift them to the Lord.

   Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

It is right to give our thanks and praise…

…Therefore with all creation we sing your praise:

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…

According to Christ’s commandment:

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

The gifts of God for the people of God.

Thanks be to God.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION  

HYMN 563            “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.

  1. 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 from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last

where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

PARTING PRAYER    

Almighty God, you have knit together your elect in one communion and fellowship in the mystical body of Christ our Lord. Give us grace to follow your blessed saints in all virtuous and godly living that we may come to those ineffable joys that you have prepared for those who truly love you; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

*CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

*BENEDICTION RESPONSE (#596)  “May the Lord, Mighty God”

May the Lord, mighty God, bless and keep you forever;

grant you peace, perfect peace, courage in every endeavor.

Lift up your eyes and see God’s face, full of grace forever.

May the Lord, mighty God, bless and keep you forever. 

POSTLUDE    “Improvisation on SINE NOMINE”   


Worship, October 31, 2021

Posted on Nov 3, 2021 in Worship Service Videos |


November Newsletter 2021

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