Gratitude Reading Recommendations

Posted on Sep 26, 2023 in Uncategorized |

As Fall approaches, our thoughts begin to turn to the upcoming Holidays. As we start to prepare our hearts for Thanksgiving and Christmas this is the perfect time to reflect on Gratitude. How do we live a life of Gratitude for what God has done for us? As Christians our gratitude goes beyond a list of things we are thankful for and turns our hearts to action. The first three books recommended by Christian Education Director for this month will help us to learn to live a life of Gratitude and the last two books will help us to understand that being thankful leads to action to give back to God through our time, tallents, and tithe. 

Oct 1st. Grateful: The Subversive Practice of Giving Thanks by Diana Butler Bass

If gratitude is good, why is it so hard to do? In Grateful, Diana Butler Bass untangles our conflicting understandings of gratitude and sets the table for a renewed practice of giving thanks.

We know that gratitude is good, but many of us find it hard to sustain a meaningful life of gratefulness. Four out of five Americans report feeling gratitude on a regular basis, but those private feelings seem disconnected from larger concerns of our public lives. In Grateful, cultural observer and theologian Diana Butler Bass takes on this “gratitude gap” and offers up surprising, relevant, and powerful insights to practice gratitude.

Bass, author of the award-winning Grounded and ten other books on spirituality and culture, explores the transformative, subversive power of gratitude for our personal lives and in communities. Using her trademark blend of historical research, spiritual insights, and timely cultural observation, she shows how we can overcome this gap and make change in our own lives and in the world.

With honest stories and heartrending examples from history and her own life, Bass reclaims gratitude as a path to greater connection with God, with others, with the world, and even with our own souls. It’s time to embrace a more radical practice of gratitude—the virtue that heals us and helps us thrive.

Oct. 8th The Way of Gratitude: Readings for a Joyful Life – by Michael Leach (Editor), James Keane (Editor), Doris Goodnough (Editor) A hundred famous writers share their experiences, essays, fiction, poems, meditations, and inspired ideas on the joy of being thankful. These honest and heartfelt writings will add gladness to your days. Contributors include Wendell Berry, David Brooks, Joan Chittister, James Martin, Thich Nhat Hanh, Henri Nouwen, Mary Oliver, Richard Rohr, Joyce Rupp, David Steindl-Rast, Rowan Williams, and many others whose spiritual perceptions already bring joy and faith to millions.

Oct. 15th God’s Abundant Table by Cynthia M. Campbell

According to John Calvin, the true church was wherever the Word was rightly preached and the sacraments rightly administered. Put another way, church happens when believers gather to tell the story and break the bread. In God’s Abundant Table, Cynthia Campbell begins with the premise that the Eucharist (the ‘thanksgiving meal’ of the church) is far more than a re-enactment of the meal in the Upper Room. Rightly understood, the Lord’s Supper is connected to Jesus’ entire ministry, to the entire story of God’s relationship with God’s people, to our everyday meals and to the ministry to which each of us is called as Christ’s followers.

Whether used for personal reflection or congregational study, this reflection on key biblical texts and a six-session study guide, will invite you to discover the many connections in the Bible between what we do in the Lord’s Supper, what it means to be in relationship with God, and how God would have us live every day.

Oct. 22nd Giving Together A Stewardship Guide for Families by Carol A. Wehrheim

In her follow-up to Getting It Together, Carol Wehrheim presents a concise, accessible resource to help families better understand the importance of stewardship: in the family, in the congregation, in the community, and in the world. Reminding us that stewardship is about much more than money, Wehrheim clearly illustrates a more holistic understanding of the concept to include careful consideration of the choices we make that show the role Christian discipleship plays in our lives. She skillfully analyzes biblical passages and identifies spiritual practices intrinsic to stewardship as a way of helping families respond to their call to be stewards in today’s world. Including both a participant’s section and a leader’s guide, Giving Together is ideal for group or family study.

Oct 29th Christian Wallet: Spending, Giving, and Living with a Conscience by Mike Slaughter

Every Christian knows that we are called to love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. But what about our wallet? We are asked to open it every Sunday when the offering basket comes by and are told that giving is a way of being a “good steward,” but what about spending money at a restaurant or grocery store? Best-selling author Mike Slaughter offers a comprehensive look at how Christians use their money in The Christian Wallet. Slaughter explores today’s culture of consumerism and the impact of what we buy, asking difficult questions about morality and money.The Christian Wallet helps Christians grapple with important questions about stewardship: how we spend, how we live, how we save, how we give, and what it all means. Questions for individual or group study are included with each chapter. For a more in-depth study, a Stewardship Study Guide is available as a free download.


Spice Rack – Habits

Posted on Aug 31, 2023 in Uncategorized |

Spice Rack was created by Mark DeVries for the volunteer junior and senior high school Sunday school teachers. The curriculum is designed to move from a lecture style teaching method and instead provides teachers with options for creating a fast-paced, interactive, faith sharing experience.

In each lesson are these components:

  1. Engaging the Brain 
  2. Igniting the Heart 
  3. Taking it Home 
Habits is a six-week course is designed to help students grow their independence in Christ while exploring habits and spiritual disciplines.
 

Spiritual Practices for Families and Groups Reading list

Posted on Aug 31, 2023 in Uncategorized |

As the summer draws to a close and the weather cools, our lives seem to only heat up. There is more to do with the start of the school year, sports activities, and even fellowship opportunities. While these can all be wonderful experiences and opportunities, the busyness of life can make it hard to make time to focus on our spiritual life. This month’s  CE reading recommendations all center around engaging in spiritual practices to strengthen ourselves, our families and the community we have chosen to be with. Many book are made for families but that doesn’t have to be just kids or even immediate families, it can also be friends or small groups. So grab a partner, your family or group and dive deeper in your spiritual relationship with God. 

Faithful Families: Creating Sacred Moments at Home Paperback by Traci Smith 

Add family faith moments to your daily routine with little or no prep, and share meaningful spiritual experiences with your children! Traci Smith, a pastor and mother of three, offers ways to discover and develop new spiritual practices as a family, whether you’re a new seeker or a lifelong follower. Faithful Families is brimming with easy, do-it-yourself ideas for transforming your family’s everyday moments into sacred moments. 

Faithful Families helps you: connect faith to your family’s everyday life; add family faith moments into your daily routine; learn new spiritual practices alongside your children; teach your children to appreciate religious diversity with time-tested non-Christian and Christian spiritual practices; respond to life’s everyday challenges and opportunities with meaningful practices

Getting It Together: Spiritual Practices for Faith, Family, and Work by Carol A. Wehrheim

As modern persons struggle to cope with the many commitments that consume our lives and the increasing–and seemingly insurmountable–demands on our time, Carol Wehrheim offers this much-needed work. In Getting It Together, she offers a direction toward relief, showing how a Christian foundation of faith can provide a sense of balance amidst the struggle. Each chapter begins with a selection from Scripture and concludes with a spiritual discipline. Including both a participant’s section and a leader’s guide, Getting It Together is ideal for group study.

Woven: Nurturing a Faith Your Kid Doesn’t Have to Heal From

Most Christian parenting books are ready with exact practices every family should follow in order to raise obedient children. In this obedience-training model, faith is a wall, constructed brick by brick, as adults tell children what to believe and how to behave.

But what if obedience is not the goal of Christian parenting? What if it’s our job as parents to instead help our kids get to know God and discover that God can be trusted?  And what if faith is not constructed brick by brick, but rather woven strand by strand.

Much like a spider’s web, in which anchor strands and internal threads combine to form a unique web, Woven can help children anchor to who God is and have faith practices that are rich, textured, and all their own. Kids need space to explore the Bible, ask big questions, and even change their understanding of God and faith along the way. With Woven, families can nurture the kind of faith that can flex and grow, be broken and repaired. This is the sort of faith that can stand up to the life a child will live, the doubts they will encounter, and the questions that will come up along the way.  

So many parents want to pass along their faith, but know that God is so much bigger than the list of do’s and don’ts they were taught about as children. They want to pass along a faith their child doesn’t have to heal from. Woven is the guidebook parents have been looking for. With a deep reverence for scripture and suggested activities to help your family grow in faith together, Woven is for parents who want to go beyond a list of do’s and don’ts and pass along a resilient faith based on genuine love for and trust in God.

Imaginative Prayer: A Yearlong Guide for Your Child’s Spiritual Formation Paperback by Jared Patrick Boyd

How do we help our kids connect with God? Most parents want their kids to learn to love God. But most of us struggle to facilitate real spiritual experiences. It’s hard enough to have a meaningful conversation with our kids about spiritual things, let alone help them experience true transformation in the presence of God. Jared Patrick Boyd discovered that children’s spiritual formation is rooted in the imagination. When we lead our children through guided times of imaginative prayer, they can experience a connection with God that transcends mere Bible knowledge or doctrinal content. This unique resource provides six units of weekly guided imaginative prayer, themed around core topics: God’s love, loving others, forgiveness, God as king, the good news of God, and the mission of God. Each unit has six sessions, providing a yearlong experience of spiritual formation for children ages five to thirteen. Through imaginative prayer, you can help your child connect with God. As you do so, you may find yourself connecting more closely with your child, and your own formation as a parent will deepen into greater awareness of God’s work in your lives.
 
 

Joy Together: Spiritual Practices for Your Congregation By Lynne M. Baab

Although interest in spiritual practices has grown in recent years, most of the books available address individuals who wish to try Christian disciplines such as fasting or fixed-hour prayer. This book, by contrast, offers guidance and examples to Christian leaders as they seek ways to involve their congregations or small groups in spiritual practices.

In Joy Together, Lynne M. Baab describes six spiritual practices that congregations can attempt together: thankfulness, fasting, contemplative prayer, lectio divina, hospitality, and Sabbath keeping. She goes on to explore how these practices can help with congregational life and discernment and provides practical instructions for communicating with group members. Discussion questions are included at the end of each chapter so groups can delve into the topics more fully.

Growing in the Life of Faith, Second Edition Education and Christian Practices by Craig Dykstra

In this new edition of his popular book, Craig Dykstra explores the contributions of the traditions, education, worship practices, and disciplines of the Reformed Christian community in helping people grow in faith. In doing so, he makes the case that the Christian church, in its own traditions, has a wealth of wisdom about satisfying spiritual hunger and the desire to know God deeply–wisdom that offers coherent, thoughtful guidance in such diverse settings as congregational life, families, youth groups, and higher education.


Announcements 4-2-23

Posted on Mar 31, 2023 in Announcements, Uncategorized |

Announcements:

 Devotional Spotlight: This week’s devotional is: Awaken to Rest: Daily words of comfort and hope The Lord wants your freedom and for you to feel the joy in His heart for you. Listen to the words in this book to jumpstart a deeper relationship with Him. Sink into His vision of you. See that you are a canvas where He is creating a beautiful life. The finished work of the Cross secured your liberty into a radically new existence.

As you read these messages daily, let them awaken you to truths that are liberating. Awakening to His rest is the key to fulfillment and peace. Striving and anxiously trying to control your life is a dead-end that leads nowhere. Come into the open pasture and lean against the heart of your Creator. Allow Him to show you a new and better way.

One Great Hour Of Sharing: Lent is a time to think about others, instead of ourselves.  Easter is a time for connecting friends, family, and those in need. ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING…

…is a time when people throughout the world come together and share what they have with others that have less!

ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING is the single, largest way that Presbyterians connect every year to work for justice, resilience, and sustainability, providing relief from natural disasters, food for the hungry, and support for the poor and oppressed.

During the season of Lent, we celebrate that God connects with us through Jesus’ resurrection and connects us with “those who have least” – that’s how Matthew 25 puts it – and that’s what One Great hour of Sharing (OGHS) is all about.

We will be collecting the One Great Hour of Sharing Offering this Sunday and on Easter Sunday.

FOR A POTLUCK LUNCHEON AFTER THE CANTATA!: On Sunday, April 16th. the Presbyterian Women will host a pot luck luncheon after our annual cantata. Just bring a dish to share with others. It can be homemade or store bought. Anything yummy you would like, someone else is sure to like too!  The Presbyterian women will be in the Fellowship Hall before the worship service to accept the food (and to have it heated or refrigerated, if necessary).The PW will provide the drinks. Plan to join us on April 16th. for beautiful music and wonderful fellowship as we join Chinese Presbyterian and Little Farms United Church of Christ as a community of believers praising God together!

Events and Meetings this Week:

4/2 – 11:45 AM – Choir 

4/5 -11:00 AM – Staff Meeting  

          6:00 PM – Handbells 

          7:00 PM – Cantata Choir Rehearsal 

4/6 – 7:00 PM – Maundy Thursday Service at Chinese Presbyterian 

4/7 – 8:00 AM – Good Friday Drop In  Prayer Vigil 

4/9 – 10:15 AM – Choir Rehearsal 

         10:30 AM- Easter Sunday  Worship Service

         11:45 AM – Choir

HYMNS AND BEER We’ve also scheduled our next Hymns and Beer for Monday, April 24th at 7pm at Zony Mash! The brewery is child and pet-friendly, and there will be a food truck (Boils by Brad) serving up crawfish. In celebration of Earth Day, all the hymns will be nature-themed and half of the musicians’ tips will be donated to Glassroots, a New Orleans non-profit which turns glass bottles into sand for use in coastal restoration projects. See you there!

Our Next Clothing Drive: We are looking for prom dresses and party dresses to take to the folks we have been working with in Lake Charles. Short, long, and all sizes. We will be collecting in April. Look for a clothing rack in the Narthex for this collection.

Love Offering For Olga: Olga, our long-term cleaning help, is retiring this week. Her husband, who has been battling mouth cancer for the last several months, started radiation treatments last week, and then will undergo chemotherapy. She needs to retire to be able to care for him. We would like to take up a love offering for Olga in recognition of her time with us and to support her in her time of need. Please put “Love Offering” in the memo line.

Birthdays: Lorraine Weindel 4/6, Chuck Corcoran 4/9


Announcements 10-23

Posted on Oct 19, 2022 in Announcements, Uncategorized |

Announcements:

Pledge Cards and Time and Talent Survey: It’s the time of year to reconsider the gifts we have to offer the church. Thank you for being a vital part of the John Calvin family. Know that, together, WE CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens us! Please return your pledge cards by the end of October. 

Christmas Cantata: Our Christmas Cantata rehearsals begin November 2nd at 7pm. The cantata will be sung at a joint service with the Chinese Presbyterian Church on December 11th; anyone who wants to sing in the cantata should plan to be at the 5 Wed. rehearsals between Nov. 2 and Dec. 11 (no rehearsal the day before Thanksgiving). Let Sam and Kelly know if you’d like to participate! 

Flowers: The flowers in the sanctuary were given by Cheryl Emery  in loving memory of her Mother and Father, who would have celebrated their 81st anniversary this year.

Wrapping paper and cookies: There is still time to shop. Register at https://www.shopfund.com/ select no student code and enter the name of the school when asked, then put CHURCH for the first and last name of Student. All orders for Church members will be sent to the office for easy pick-up. Thank you for making our fundraiser a success!

Devotional Spotlight: Do you want to grow deeper in faith with a Daily Devotional but don’t know where to start? Each week we will highlight a devotional book you might like to try. This week’s devotional is: Our Daily Bread. It is a calendar-style devotional booklet published by Our Daily Bread Ministries. The booklet is one of the most widely read Christian devotionals in circulation today. Each day gives you a short bible passage to read and highlights a main verse from that passage. This is followed by thoughts on the passage. It is written by a different author each day, and also features additional Bible passages for people following Our Daily Bread’s “Bible In One Year” reading program.So if you looking to dip your toes into the devotional waters this short pocket size booklet may be for you. Bonus, it’s available right outside the church doors. 

Birthdays: Barbara McHan 10/23. Louise Fuller 10/28


Worship 9-11-22

Posted on Sep 10, 2022 in Bulletin, Orders of Worship, Uncategorized |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost

Sep 11th, 2022 Ten Thirty in the morning

Ministers: Rev. Susan Lassalle and Rev. Aaron Ochart       

Please silence all cell phones. 

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

* Please stand, in body or spirit

GATHERING

PRELUDE                            Prelude in C – Pachelbel                                               

*PROCESSIONAL HYMN: Blue Hymnal #391      “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.

3 Take my voice, and let me sing Always, only, for my King.

Take my lips, and let them be Filled with messages from Thee, 

Filled with messages from Thee.

WORDS OF WELCOME   

ADORATION 

CALL TO WORSHIP    

ONE: There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit gives them. 

ALL: There are different ways of serving, but the same God is served. 

ONE: There are different abilities to perform service, but the same God gives ability to each of us for our particular service.

ALL: The Spirit’s presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all.

ONE: Christ is like a single body with many parts.

ALL Is it still one body even though it is made up of different parts. 

ONE: If one part of the body suffers, all the other parts suffer with it; if one part is praised, all the other parts joyfully celebrate. 

ALL: All of us are Christ’s body, and each one is a part of it.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Loving God, in whom we live and move and have our being. You breathe life and Spirit into us. You call us to learn and grow, and to teach others the lessons that we have learned. Thank you for the gift of teachers, and the many opportunities we have to learn. May we never stop learning. Amen. 

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

REMEMBRANCE of SEPTEMBER 11th

 OPENING SENTENCES                                                            Psalm 46:1-3, 7      

ONE: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 

ALL: Lord of hosts, be with us still. 

ONE: Therefore, we shall not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be hurled into the sea; though its waters rage and foam, though the mountains tremble at its tumult. 

ALL: Lord of hosts, be with us still.

ONE MINUTE of SILENCE in REMEMBRANCE of 

SEPTEMBER 11, 2001

PRAYER

Strong God of love: your Son Jesus told us that in this world we will endure tribulation. If we should suffer for righteousness’ sake, save us from self-righteousness. Give us grace to pray for enemies, and to forgive them, even as you have forgiven us; through Jesus Christ, who was crucified but is risen, whom we praise forever. Amen.

PROCLAMATION

SCRIPTURE LESSON                       Psalm 1; Proverbs 1:8-9, 20-22; 3:1-18

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

CELEBRATION of EDUCATIONAL MINISTRIES                           

John Calvin Presbyterian              Louise Ochart, Christian Education Leader

John Calvin Presbyterian Playschool       Lauren Oufnac, Playschool Director

Little Farms United Church of Christ                          The Rev. Susan Lassalle

Conclusion                                                                              The Rev. Aaron Ochart 

RESPONSE     

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY                        “Bound for Jubilee”

Hallelu, Hallelu, I am on my way, bound for Jubilee

Oh my brother, won’t you come with me?

Oh my sister, you must come today.

Oh my brother, won’t you come with me? 

Or the Devil might come and take you away, 

‘fore you get to Jubilee

Hallelu! Bound for Jubilee!

My Lord’s callin’, I must go with Him.

Can’t you hear Him callin’ you today?

My Lords callin’, I must go with Him, 

or the Devil might come and take me away, ‘fore I get to Jubilee

Hallelu! Bound for Jubilee!

*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

COMMISSIONING of TEACHERS

Playschool Teachers to be commissioned: Lauren Oufnac Director Stephanie Galliano Adm. Asst., Michelle Henry TK Teacher, Sue McKenzie TK Teacher, Nancy James PK+ Teacher, Cherie Corcoran PK+ Teacher, Briana Pertuit PK+ Teacher, Debbie Perrie PK+ Teacher, Sherry Welch-Kinler 3’s Teacher, Virginia LaHatte 3’s Teacher, May Masri  3’s Teacher, Sharon Penny 3’s Teacher, Kim Knouse 3’s Teacher, Jamie Orlando 3’s/2’s Teacher, Brittanie Amerland 2’s Teacher, Angle’ Young 2’s Teacher, Amanda Rowell 2’s Teacher, Cherie Mosbey 2’s Teacher, Angelle Muscarello 2’s Teacher, Stacey O’Neil 2’s Teacher, Gina Nissenbaum 2’s Teacher, Yvette Burst 1’s Teacher, Brittany Louis 1’s Teacher, Virginia Borne Specialty Class Teacher/Sub, Blair Tullier Specialty Class Teacher, Kaitlin Novak Specialty Class Teacher, Lynne Sens Teacher

JCPC Sunday School Teachers and Nursery Care workers to be Commissioned: Valerie Corcoran, Julie Hebert, Linda Lowry, Louise Ochart, Rev. Aaron Ochart, Cynthia Palmisano, Karla Russo, David Russo

ONE: God calls ordinary people from ordinary places to do extraordinary work with God’s people. God called Abraham and Sarah to pack their belongings and follow God to a new land.

ALL: So they followed God. 

ONE: God called Moses to take the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt. 

ALL: So they followed God. 

ONE: God called David to be a king, even though he was a young boy and the youngest of all of Jesse’s sons.

ALL: So they followed God. 

ONE: God called Mary to have a baby and name the child “Jesus,” because he would save the people from their sins.

ALL: So they followed God.

ONE: God called Peter and James and John away from their families, their homes, and their work as fishermen.

ALL: So they followed God. 

ONE: God called Martha away from the kitchen and Lydia away from her purple cloth, and Priscilla to open her home as a new church.

ALL: So they followed God. 

LOUISE: Teachers, please stand. God has called you as educators. Being an educator requires energy, patience, commitment, hard work, and a heart for God’s work and God’s children. Do you accept this call? 

TEACHERS: I do.

LAUREN: Playschool Teachers, You have been called to serve God in this place by teaching our smallest ones. You will teach colors, letters, and numbers, as well as foundational lessons of how to be a human being.  Will you serve with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love?

PLAYSCHOOL TEACHERS: We will.

AARON: Sunday School teachers and other church educators, You have been called to teach the faith to those in your congregation, from the youngest to the oldest. You are called to teach and to learn lessons from the Bible, deep spiritual truths, and to mutually call one another to deeper faith and life. Will you serve with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love? 

SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS: We will.

SUSAN: Lord our God, we are like trees planted by the Living Water of your Word. May we meditate on your Word day and night. Your Spirit calls out to us in the business of our lives to learn her wisdom, to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not to rely on our own understanding. 

Bless the teachers called to these particular ministries, whether they are here in person or elsewhere. Give them your strength when they have none and your peace that passes all understanding. Help them to remember that they are called to learn as well. Bless all of their students, no matter the age, and give them a great year of learning and growth. Bless also all of the students, teachers, staff, and administration of the many schools around us. Keep them all safe and in your tender loving kindness. 

LORD’S PRAYER

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

*HYMN Blue Hymnal#324           “Open My Eyes That I May See”

  1. Open my eyes that I may see Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;

place in my hands the wonderful key That shall unclasp and set me free.

Silently now I wait for Thee, Ready, my God, Thy will to see;

Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!

  1. Open my ears, that I may hear Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;

And while the wave notes fall on my ear, Everything false will disappear.

Silently now I wait for Thee, Ready, my God, Thy will to see;

Open my ears, illumine me, Spirit divine!

  1. Open my mouth, and let me bear Gladly the warm truth everywhere;

Open my heart, and let me prepare Love with Thy children thus to share.

Silently now I wait for Thee, Ready, my God, Thy will to see;

Open my heart, illumine me, Spirit divine!

*CHARGE AND BENEDICTION: Right and Left sides of the sanctuary (facing the pulpit)

ONE: Look around you friends, look around you. Who is the person standing next to you?

RIGHT: The person next to me is a beloved child of God, a living example of the Word-Made-Flesh of God’s continuing presence in the world, of God’s continuing “coming” into our midst.

LEFT: The person next to me is unique, a combination of needs and possibilities, smiles and frowns, laughter and tears, fears and hopes, all struggling to find expression.

ONE: Friends, look around you . . . each of you are heirs of God’s promise, God’s adopted and beloved children.

RIGHT: Go out from this place renewed by the Spirit.

LEFT: We will go where God sends us for we have been fed and equipped for service

ONE: Go in peace to love and serve the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing you are beloved children of God, and that God has claimed you as special.

ALL: We come and we go, we live and breathe as children of God. Thanks be to God! Alleluia! Amen.

BLESSING for PICNIC

POSTLUDE   “This Little Light of Mine” Setting by John A. Behnke

Flowers were given by Jananne Lankard in honor of Teachers and in memory of George McLean by his family. 

Participating in today’s service are Rev. Susan Lassalle, pastor of Little Farms UCC; Rev. Aaron Ochart, Pastor of John Calvin Pres.; Louise Ochart, CE Leader; Lauren Oufnac, Playschool Director; Sam Garnett, Music Director; and Kelly Cuppett, Asst. 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.  


Order of Worship 7-24-22

Posted on Jul 23, 2022 in Uncategorized |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Seventh Sunday After Pentecost

July 24th, 2022 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart       

Liturgist: Jananne Lankard

Please silence all cell phones. 

Face masks are encouraged for all participants unless leading worship. 

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

* Please stand, in body or spirit

GATHERING

PRELUDE

*PROCESSIONAL HYMN [Blue Hymnal 267]

 All Things Bright and Beautiful             

Refrain: All things bright and beautiful,

All creatures great and small,

All things wise and wonderful:

The Lord God made them all.
 

1 Each little flower that opens,

Each little bird that sings:

God made their glowing colors,

God made their tiny wings. (Refrain)
 

2 The purple-headed mountain,

The river running by,

The sunset, and the morning

That brightens up the sky, (Refrain)

WORDS OF WELCOME   

MINUTE for MISSION: Presbyterian Women School Supplies        

GOD, the CREATOR

CALL TO WORSHIP Psalm 104

ONE: “How countless are your works, Lord! 

MANY: In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”                      
 

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God, you have created us and everything around us, you have a design and purpose for our lives. 

Jesus, our King and Savior. You love us more than we can imagine. 

Holy Spirit, you empower us to share your love with everyone around us. 

Thank you God, Jesus, and Spirit, for creating us, designing us, and empowering us! Amen. 

HYMN               Come! Live in the Light!     WE ARE CALLED

  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

 

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 all hatred and violence will be no more (chorus)

 

  1. 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)  

             

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

MOTO: CREATED 

  DESIGNED 

  EMPOWERED

VERSE: For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do”

Shout it Out

Dear Lord, Thank you that you created us with Creativity, that you Designed us each with special skills and abilities, and that you Empower us through the Holy Spirit to do your work in the World. Amen

 GOD, the DESIGNER

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Lord God, You are the perfect Creator, and You tell us we are fearfully and wonderfully made. We confess that our pride prevents us from believing this truth. We question Your craftsmanship and often wish that you had made us a different way. Heal us of this sinful tendency. Help us celebrate how You have made us in Your image with perfect purpose and care. Lord, we know that You call us into Your holy service to use our gifts to further Your Kingdom on earth. We confess that we find ourselves using our God-given gifts to further our own agendas instead of Yours. Renew our hearts and strengthen us. Go with us as we do the work You have given each of us to do. In the powerful Name of Christ, 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.

JESUS, the KING

SCRIPTURE LESSON                                                                      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                               “Spark Studio”                 The Rev. Aaron Ochart

 JESUS, the REDEEMER    

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH              Theological Declaration of Barmen 

   

  Jesus Christ, as he is attested for us in Holy Scripture, is the one Word of God which we have to hear and which we have to trust and obey in life and in death.

    As Jesus Christ is God’s assurance of the forgiveness of all our sins, so in the same way and with the same seriousness is he also God’s mighty claim upon our whole life. Through him befalls us a joyful deliverance from the godless fetters of this world for a free, grateful service to his creatures.

   The church’s commission, upon which its freedom is founded, consists in delivering the message of the free grace of God to all people in Christ’s stead, and therefore in the ministry of his own Word and work through sermon and Sacrament. Amen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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 LORDS PRAYER

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

HOLY SPIRIT, the HELPER

*HYMN [Blue #315]    “Every Time I Feel the Spirit”

Refrain: Every time I feel the Spirit moving in my heart I will pray.

Yes, every time I feel the Spirit moving in my heart I will pray.

1 Upon the mountain, when my Lord spoke,

Out of God’s mouth came fire and smoke.

Looked all around me, it looked so fine,

Till I asked my Lord if all was mine. (Refrain)

2 Jordan river, chilly and cold,

It chills the body but not the soul.

There is but one train upon this track;

It runs to heaven and then right back. (Refrain)

*PARTING PRAYER    

Almighty God, bless your people. Give us your peace, your help, and your love, for we are the sheep of your pasture. Let us be united in your peace— one in the Body, one in the Spirit, and one in the hope of our calling, all through the gift of your endless grace. Amen.

*CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE         Flourish by Alan Bullard

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

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

STAFF

Church Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 504.888.1375

Playschool Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .504.888.1378

The Reverend Aaron Ochart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Head of Staff

Louise Ochart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Christian Education Leader

Sam Garnett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Music Director

Kelly Cuppett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Music Director

Lauren Oufnac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Playschool Director

Stephanie Galliano. . . . . Playschool Administrative Assistant

For more information, visit our website at www.JohnCalvinChurch.org

 or find us @JohnCalvinMetairie on

JCPC Prayer Team

You may write your prayer request on one of the forms, located in the pew rack in front of you, and place it in the offering plate. You may also enter prayer requests on-line at www.johncalvinchurch.org, just click

 “Prayer Request.”

order of worship 7-17-22

Posted on Jul 14, 2022 in Uncategorized |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Sixth Sunday After Pentecost

July 17th, 2022 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart       

Liturgist: Carolyn Calvin

Please silence all cell phones. 

Face masks are encouraged for all participants unless leading worship. 

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

* Please stand, in body or spirit

GATHERING

PRELUDE

*PROCESSIONAL HYMN Come Ye Sinners,  Poor and Needy              

1 Come, ye sinners, poor and needy, weak and wounded, sick and sore;

Jesus ready stands to save you, full of pity, love, and power.

Refrain: I will arise and go to Jesus; he will embrace me in his arms.

In the arms of my dear Savior, O there are ten thousand charms.

3 Come, ye weary, heavy laden,

lost and ruined by the fall;

if you tarry till you’re better,

you will never come at all. [Refrain]

WORDS OF WELCOME   

MINUTE for MISSION: Presbyterian Women School Supplies        

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP Gen. 28:16–17

ONE: Surely the Lord is in this place!

MANY: This is the house of God.

                                                   

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Eternal God, Author of our life and End of our pilgrimage: Guide us by your Word and Spirit amid all perils and temptations, that we may not wander from your way, nor stumble in the darkness; but may finish our course in safety, and come to our eternal rest in you; through the grace and merit of Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

HYMN               Come! Live in the Light!     WE ARE CALLED

  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

 

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 all hatred and violence will be no more (chorus)

 

  1. 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)  

             

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

                        

 CONFESSION 

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Eternal God, our judge and redeemer, we confess that we have tried to hide from you, for we have done wrong. We have lived for ourselves, and apart from you. We have turned from our neighbors, and refused to bear the burdens of others. We have ignored the pain of the world, and passed by the hungry, the poor, and the oppressed. 

In your great mercy forgive our sins and free us from selfishness, that we may choose your will and obey your commandments; through Jesus Christ our Savior. 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

SCRIPTURE LESSON                                                                          Genesis 3:1-24

Now the serpent was more crafty than any other wild animal that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God say, “You shall not eat from any tree in the garden”?’ The woman said to the serpent, ‘We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden; but God said, “You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the garden, nor shall you touch it, or you shall die.” ’ But the serpent said to the woman, ‘You will not die; for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.’ So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves.

They heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden at the time of the evening breeze, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ He said, ‘I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.’ He said, ‘Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?’ The man said, ‘The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit from the tree, and I ate.’ Then the Lord God said to the woman, ‘What is this that you have done?’ The woman said, ‘The serpent tricked me, and I ate.’ The Lord God said to the serpent,

‘Because you have done this, cursed are you among all animals and among all wild creatures; upon your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will strike your head, and you will strike his heel.’

To the woman he said,

‘I will greatly increase your pangs in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children, yet your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.’

And to the man he said,

‘Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten of the tree about which I commanded you, “You shall not eat of it”, cursed is the ground because of you; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; you are dust, and to dust you shall return.’

The man named his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all who live. And the Lord God made garments of skins for the man and for his wife, and clothed them.

Then the Lord God said, ‘See, the man has become like one of us, knowing good and evil; and now, he might reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever’— therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from which he was taken. He drove out the man; and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim, and a sword flaming and turning to guard the way to the tree of life.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON                                  “Saqueo”                     The Rev. Aaron Ochart

 RESPONSE     

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH                       Westminster Shorter Catechism

Q1. What is the main purpose for humanity?

  1. The main purpose for humanity is to glorify and enjoy God forever.

Q2. What rule has God given to tell us how we may glorify and enjoy God?

  1. The Word of God which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments is the only rule to tell us how we may glorify and enjoy God.

Q3. What do the Scriptures mainly teach?
A. The Scriptures mainly teach what we are to believe about God, and what duty God requires of us.

Q6. How many Persons are there in the Trinity?
A. There are three Persons in the Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory.

Q14. What is Sin?

  1. Sin is any lack of obedience to, or violation of, the law of God.

Q18. What does this state of sin mean for humanity?
A. This state of sin means that humanity: bears the guilt of Adam and Eve’s first sin, lacks the righteousness that God intended for us, and that human nature has been corrupted; along with all actual transgressions which result from our fallen nature.

Q21. Who is the Redeemer of God’s elect?
A. The only Redeemer of God’s elect is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, being the eternal Son of God, became man, and so was, and continues to be, God and human, in two distinct natures, and one Person forever.

Q30. How does the Spirit apply to us the redemption purchased by Christ?
A. The Spirit applies to us the redemption purchased by Christ by working faith in us, and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual calling.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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. 

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORDS PRAYER

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

*HYMN [Blue #298]    “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy”

  1. There’s a wideness in God’s mercy, Like the wideness of the sea;

There’s a kindness in God’s justice, which is more than liberty.

There is no place where earth’s sorrows Are more felt than up in heaven.

There is no place where earth’s failings Have such kindley judgements given.

  1. For the love of God is wider Than the measure of the mind;

And the heart of the Eternal Is most wonderfully kind.

If our love were but more faithful, We would gladly trust God’s Word;

And our loves reflect thanksgiving For the goodness of our Lord. 

*PARTING PRAYER    

Almighty God, bless your people. Give us your peace, your help, and your love, for we are the sheep of your pasture. Let us be united in your peace— one in the Body, one in the Spirit, and one in the hope of our calling, all through the gift of your endless grace. Amen.

*CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE   

           Toccata in E minor – Pachelbel 

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

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

STAFF

Church Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 504.888.1375

Playschool Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .504.888.1378

The Reverend Aaron Ochart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Head of Staff

Louise Ochart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Christian Education Leader

Sam Garnett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Music Director

Kelly Cuppett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Music Director

Lauren Oufnac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Playschool Director

Stephanie Galliano. . . . . Playschool Administrative Assistant

For more information, visit our website at www.JohnCalvinChurch.org

 or find us @JohnCalvinMetairie on

JCPC Prayer Team

You may write your prayer request on one of the forms, located in the pew rack in front of you, and place it in the offering plate. You may also enter prayer requests on-line at www.johncalvinchurch.org, just click

 “Prayer Request.”

Order of Worship 6-26-22

Posted on Jun 22, 2022 in Bulletin, Orders of Worship, Uncategorized |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Third Sunday After Pentecost

June 26th, 2022 Ten Thirty in the morning

Pulpit Supply: Patricia Ellzey       

Liturgist: Laurie Robinson Hill

Please silence all cell phones. 

Face masks are encouraged for all participants unless leading worship.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

* Please stand, in body or spirit

GATHERING

*PROCESSIONAL HYMN [Blue #464]     Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee                

1 Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,

God of glory, Lord of love;

Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,

Opening to the sun above.

Melt the clouds of sin and sadness;

Drive the gloom of doubt away;

Giver of immortal gladness,

Fill us with the light of day.
 

2 All Thy works with joy surround Thee,

Earth and heaven reflect Thy rays,

Stars and angels sing around Thee,

Center of unbroken praise.

Field and forest, vale and mountain,

Flowery meadow, flashing sea,

Chanting bird and flowing fountain,

Call us to rejoice in Thee.
 

3 Mortals, join the happy chorus

Which the morning stars began;

Love divine is reigning o’er us,

Joining all in heaven’s plan.

Ever singing, march we onward,

Victors in the midst of strife,

Joyful music leads us sunward

In the triumph song of life.

WORDS OF WELCOME           

PRELUDE Be Thou My Vision by Edward Broughton

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP Gal. 5:1, 25

ONE: For freedom Christ has set us free.

MANY: Now we live by the Spirit of God.   

                                       

PRAYER OF THE DAY

O God,

light of the minds that know you,

life of the souls that love you,

strength of the thoughts that seek you:

Help us so to know you

that we may truly love you,

so to love you

that we may fully serve you,

whose service is perfect freedom;

through Jesus Christ our Lord,

who lives and reigns with you

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

one God, now and forever. Amen.

HYMN        “Will You Come and Follow Me?”      KELVINGROVE

  1. “Will you come and follow me if I but call your name?

Will you go where you don’t know and never be the same?

Will you let my love be shown? Will you let my name be known,

will you let my life be grown in you and you in me?

  1. Will you leave yourself behind if I but call your name?

Will you care for cruel and kind and never be the same?

Will you risk the hostile stare should your life attract or scare?

Will you let me answer prayer in you and you in me?

  1. Will you let the blinded see if I but call your name?

Will you set the prisoners free and never be the same?

Will you kiss the leper clean and do such as this unseen,

and admit to what I mean in you and you in me?

  1. Will you love the “you” you hide if I but call your name?

Will you quell the fear inside and never be the same?

Will you use the faith you’ve found to reshape the world around,

through my sight and touch and sound in you and you in me?

  1. Lord your summons echoes true when you but call my name.

Let me turn and follow you and never be the same.

In Your company I’ll go where Your love and footsteps show.

Thus I’ll move and live and grow in you and you in me.                         

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

                        

 CONFESSION 

CALL TO CONFESSION                                                                  

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Eternal God, our judge and redeemer, we confess that we have tried to hide from you, for we have done wrong. We have lived for ourselves, and apart from you. We have turned from our neighbors, and refused to bear the burdens of others. We have ignored the pain of the world, and passed by the hungry, the poor, and the oppressed. 

In your great mercy forgive our sins and free us from selfishness, that we may choose your will and obey your commandments; through Jesus Christ our Savior. 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

SCRIPTURE LESSON                                           Ephesians 6:1-18

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—this is the first commandment with a promise: ‘so that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.’

And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, in singleness of heart, as you obey Christ; not only while being watched, and in order to please them, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. Render service with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not to men and women, knowing that whatever good we do, we will receive the same again from the Lord, whether we are slaves or free.

And, masters, do the same to them. Stop threatening them, for you know that both of you have the same Master in heaven, and with him there is no partiality.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet, put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON                   SEEKING THE TRUTH                   Patricia Ellzey

 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. 

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 [Blue #383]      My Faith Looks Up to Thee                    

1 My faith looks up to Thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary, 

Savior divine: Now hear me while I pray,

Take all my guilt away, O let me from this day

Be wholly Thine!

2 May Thy rich grace impart Strength to my fainting heart,

My zeal inspire; As Thou hast died for me,

O may my love to Thee Pure, warm, and changeless be,

A living fire!

3 While life’s dark maze I tread, And griefs around me spread,

Be Thou my guide; Bid darkness turn to day,

Wipe sorrow’s tears away, Nor let me ever stray

From Thee aside.

4 When ends life’s transient dream, 

When death’s cold sullen stream Shall o’er me roll.

Blest Savior, then, in love, Fear and distrust remove;

O bear me safe above, A ransomed soul!

*PARTING PRAYER    

Holy Spirit, you have filled us with your life. 

Christ our Savior, you have embraced us in your love. 

God our Mother, you have fed us with your grace.

Now send us out into your beloved world

to share your life, your love, your grace with all.

Blessing and honor and glory to you,

holy, holy, holy Lord. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE        Dialogue Sur Les Grands Jeux Couperin             

Participating in today’s service are Rev. Aaron Ochart, Pastor; Julie Hebert, CE Leader; and Sam Garnett, Organist. Appreciation to Dennis Lauland. Mike Fortin, and David Garland for the video production of today’s service. 

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

STAFF

Church Office 504.888.1375

Playschool Office 504.888.1378

The Reverend Aaron Ochart – Head of Staff

Louise Ochart – Christian Education Leader

Sam Garnett – Organist

Lauren Oufnac – Playschool Director

Stephanie Galliano – Playschool Admin. Asst.

For more information, visit our website at www.JohnCalvinChurch.org

 or find us @JohnCalvinMetairie on

Announcements. 

Patricia Ellzey: Pat is a native born New Orleanian and 4th generation Chinese American. Mother of 3 children and a lifelong Presbyterian. She  joined Metairie Ridge Presbyterian Church in 1951. Pat attended Tulane University in 1961. She received BS Biology and in 1975 an MS of Education in Administration, Supervision, Guidance & Counseling. In 2005 she received her Master Degree in Divinity from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. She has worked as a Biology teacher; academic and career counselor, Guidance Dept Chair; Pulpit Supply Preacher, Hospital Chaplain at East Jefferson Hospital & Oschner Hospital and Bereavement Hospice Chaplain- St Catherine Hospice. As a PCUSA  Leader she is an ordained Deacon & Elder at Chinese Presbyterian Church. She was on the Board of Trustees- Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary 1991-2000 as well as being Vice Moderator & Moderator of the Synod of the Sun- 2002-2005. Pat has also been a member of the General Assembly Council Executive Committee and served as Moderator on many committees. Pat is also a leader in the local Community; she was the chair of the Jefferson Parish Vocational & Technical School and New Orleans  Asian Pacific American Society. As well as being President of the Organization of Chinese American Women, New Orleans Chapter.

VBS VOLUNTEERS: It’s that time of year again time to volunteer for VBS! We will be doing Spark Studios VBS July 18th – 22nd and we can’t do it without you. Our biggest volunteer needs are those willing to be group leaders. Ideally we would like to have two adults per group. So grab a friend and come have some fun with us teaching the kids about creativity and God’s plan for their lives. 

Treasurer: The John Calvin Session is looking for someone to help oversee the finances of the church. If you or someone you know might be interested, please let us know. 

Playschool Fun Fair: The totals are in and The Fun Fair net revenue was $30,000. The committee and playschool staff would like to thank everyone who made this such a successful and fun event. The money will be used to purchase new classroom carpets, drying racks, several new tables, toys, manipulatives, and classroom chairs.
 

SUMMER MUSIC OPPORTUNITIES! 

An Evening of Sight-Reading 

 June 28th and July 26th from 5:30-7pm

Intended for choral singers with some music fluency, the last Tuesday of June and July will be a time for people to get together and read through some of our choral

library. This is not a rehearsal- just music from start to finish!  

Conducting Clinic 

July 6, 13, and 20 from 6-7pm

In a 3-week masterclass setting intended for those with some music literacy, learn the basic gestures of conducting and choose a piece from the choral or handbell library to prepare. Those who enjoy it may find themselves on the podium this fall! Please let Kelly know of your interest

by July 1.

Handbell Choir 

July 13th, 20th, 27th and Aug 7th

If you are interested in participating in a summer handbell choir, please let Sam know by July 1st.  Rehearsals will take place in July  at 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM for participation in August 7th service.

Small Group or Solo Involvement 

Sunday 

Do you have a piece of music that you’d like to share with the congregation? Let us know! We are always looking for individuals and small groups to share their talents during the prelude or offertory. 

Sundays at Six

Summer Concert Series

@ John Calvin Prebyterian Church

4201 Transcontinental Drive

Metairie, LA 70006


Every Sunday evening in July, join us for a concert at 6pm at John Calvin Presbyterian Church highlighting local musicians. There are no cover charges or tickets, but your welcome donations help to fund future concerts.

See you on Sundays at Six!


July 3

All-American Piano Music

Kelly Cuppett, piano


July 10

Fourth Wave Women’s Choir


July 17

Josh Sierra, cello


July 24

JCPC Music Team: An Evening of Duets


July 31

Jayne Edwards, voice & piano
 

Summer Youth Activities: 

Youth Group: The next Youth Group will be held June 26th, July 3rd (party at the ocharts see below), July 17th and Aug 7th. 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM. Dinner will be included, but a small donation to help cover the cost would be appreciated. We will have music, games and a video bible study. We will pick our next Study at the June 26th meeting. 

BIBLE BUILDS: Join us for bible builds, July 10th, 24th and Aug 7th at 9:30 AM. We will read a story from the bible and then the kids log on to Minecraft and build something from the story. We will talk about their builds and explore the story further using their ideas and builds. 

Youth and Music: The first Sunday of every month the Youth (all ages) are invited to learn the new hymn of the month at 9:45 am and then help teach the congregation in service that day. Our next practices will be Sunday July 3rd and Aug 7th. 

Independence day Celebration: Youth and families come Join us July 3rd at 6:30 PM for a party at the Ocharts. We will have Music, food, fun and fireworks. Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to take a dip in the pool or run in the sprinklers. We will also have some video games like Just Dance and Wii sports.   

White Sands Beach Day: TBD. Join us at White sands beach for a day of fun in the Sun. Cost will be $10 per person. The church will cover the cost of cabana rental and adults coming as chaperons. Please bring money for Food. 

Vacation Bible School  July 18th – 22nd, 2022

Spark imagination and kick creativity into high gear at Spark Studios. In summer 2022, kids will learn that God’s creativity didn’t stop in Genesis. The Master Artist is working to redeem, reclaim, and transform us–God’s creation–to the design God planned for us. Kids will see the beautiful truth that they are God’s workmanship as they learn to use their talents to bring glory to God.

WHEN: July 18th – 22nd TIME: 9:00 AM – Noon

WHO CAN ATTEND:  Ages 3 (by 1/1/22 and must be fully potty-trained) – exiting 4th grade

COST: $40 for First Child, $20 for Second Child in the family with a Maximum of $60 Per Family

Scholarships are Available 

If you volunteer to work VBS your child can attend for Free.

HOW DO I VOLUNTEER: Please Email Louise Ochart at Louise.Ochart@Johncalvinchurch.org

HOW DO I REGISTER: Fill out the form below and email a copy to Louise.Ochart@Johncalvinchurch.org

OR register online at  https://forms.gle/PvoV4kxgorXvi8Px5


Laser Tag

Posted on May 9, 2022 in Children, Uncategorized, Youth |

1200 S. Clearview Pkwy.

504-207-4444

LaserTagNola.com

John Calvin Presbyterian Church FUNdraiser!

Thursday May 12th, 2022

Time: 4pm-9pm
 
 
Get your UNLIMITED wristband for just $20 plus tax! 

UNLIMITED LASER TAG

UNLIMITED BUMPER CARS

UNLIMITED COSMIC GOLF

Buy tickets at the door
or get PreSale Tickets at 

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