Sunday Prayers - Ordinary 28B - October 14

Approaching God

Welcome & announcements

Prelude

Gathering Song

Call to Worship

Youth:                   The Lord is righteous; He frees us from fear and sin.

People:                 May the blessing of God be upon us, as we worship the Name of the Lord.

Youth:                   Let us praise God and glorify His works on Earth. Amen.

First Hymn

Prayers of Adoration and Confession

Guide:                  Almighty God, whose strength inspires us and whose presence can bring us peace, we worship Your ways and delight in Your words. You established the universe and created all life, therefore we humbly bow before You and seek to please You with our prayers.

People:                Gracious Father, each day we battle with temptation and sin; we struggle to overcome our desires and greed, as well as our bitterness and pride. We confess to our faithless and rebellious ways; we ask forgiveness for our wrong doing, our misdeeds, and our mistakes. Hear us now as we silently ask You for mercy.

- Silent Confessions -

Guide:                  Heavenly Father, we thank You for hearing our prayers and for blessing us with Jesus, Your Holy Son who is our Savior and Redeemer. Without Christ, our lives would be meaningless and our souls would be lost. In Him alone, we unite our spirits and continue to pray, saying, “Our Father, Who art in heaven...THE LORD'S PRAYER” (debts/debtors) 

Promise of the Gospel

Guide: Christ fulfilled all that God expected of Him. From the ancient patriarchs and the prophets of old, Christ’s coming was predicted and expected. Today, we can rejoice in the fact that He has come into the world to redeem sinners, as well as to restore His people to the loving presence of the Almighty and Everlasting God. Amen.

Gloria Patri (sung in unison): 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor:                  Our spirits seek the One, True and Living God. Here, in this place of hope and healing, we meet Him. We have often cried out to the Name of the Lord; He has felt our hurt and seen our tears.

People:                 As we pour out our souls in prayer, let us remember the times when we have experienced the power and presence of God. Let us remember those who have undergone breast cancer treatment. Let us be thankful for their courage and tenacity, as well as their love of life and the others around them.

Pastor:                  When they are downcast at times because of illness, worries, and burdens, strengthen their weary spirits. As they continue to put their hope in the Lord and pioneer new ways to overcome this cancer, may they be granted help, healing, and wholeness. Hear us now, O Lord, as we quietly pray.

                                Silent Prayers for ourselves and others. A candle is lit

Pastor:                  The Lord is with us at all times. He hear our prayers and grants us life. In Christ’s Name, we pray. Amen.

Singing of “Sanctuary.”

Prayer of Illumination

Reader:                Holy Spirit, teach us Christ’s ways from what we read and hear today. Open our hearts and minds to His ongoing ministry. Enable us to celebrate the Gospel by applying it in our lives every day. In Jesus’ Name, we pray.  Amen.

Scripture Readings

The Message & the Apostles' Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory

Dedication (in unison – led by pastor):                 Lord Jesus, You have given us faith, hope, and the promise of eternal life. You have also blessed us with time, talents, and money. All that we own belongs to You. All that we gain comes from You. From these blessings, we have set aside this offering. Take our tithes and gifts and use them for the work of Your Church, as well as for the spreading of the Gospel in our church, community and around the world. In Your Holy Name, we cheerfully give and thankfully pray. Amen.

Closing Hymn

Benediction (unison):    May Christ grant us peace of mind each and every day; may the Father find our hearts and lives pleasing to Him; and may the Holy Spirit keep us traveling in the light and love of the One, Triune, and Living God, both now and forever. Amen.              

Doxology & Postlude

Sunday Worship Prayer - Ordinary 6 - February 12

Approaching God

Prelude

Welcome and announcements

Gathering song

Call to Worship

Pastor:             May the Lord's unfailing love come to us; may we know of His promised salvation.

People:           We will live in His freedom; we will seek God's wisdom and teaching.

Pastor:             Let us lift up our hearts and hands as we worship the Lord, whom we adore forever. Amen.

First Hymn:

Prayers of Adoration and Confession

Guide:              Almighty God, whose power sustains all that lives; whose words remain unbroken and undiminished across the centuries; we worship You with our hearts and serve You with our lives. Your ways are beyond our own, and Your works are gloriously displayed throughout the universe. Today we pledge our loyalty and allegiance to You.

People:           Gracious Father, we still pursue our sinful desires and selfishly make bad choices; we sometimes neglect Your holy words and choose to act upon our own understanding. Forgive us for being foolish and unwise, insensitive and ungrateful. We know that we cannot hide from Your gaze, nor can we flee from Your presence. You know everything about us and every secret that we hide. Pardon us for avoiding the truth, and forgive us for allowing self-centered pride to dictate our decisions. Hear us now as we solemnly ask for mercy.

- Silent Confessions -

Guide: Loving God, we look to You for salvation through Your Son Jesus Christ. In Him, we find peace and pardon, faith and forgiveness, as well as rebirth and redemption. We applaud His sacrifice and we glorify His deeds. In His Holy Name, we make our personal confessions, and by His sacred words we continue to pray, saying, "Our Father…THE LORD'S PRAYER"  (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel

Guide: Jesus could truly judge us and cast us away from God's Kingdom forever. We rely upon His mercy and grace to restore us to God’s love. We do not deserve these wonderful gifts, but we are truly thankful and will be eternally grateful for these blessings. Without them, we are lost forever, but with Christ, we are given God's everlasting favor. To Him be the glory and power, forever and ever. Amen.

Gloria Patri (sung in unison): 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Choir Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor:             O Lord, in our hearts, we know that You are with us. In our lives, we each experience Your love. Look down upon us, O Lord, and grant us a true understanding of Your ways. Have mercy upon us as we seek Your favor.

People:           When we turn to You for help, O God, diminish our fears. When we call upon You for healing, release us from pain. When our strength is at its lowest, grant us Your power. When our health is weak and fragile, be our support and shield.

 Pastor:            Keep us from being overwhelmed by dread or anxiety. Save us from being overcome with sorrow and depression. O Lord, You are our refuge and redeemer, therefore we ask for healing for all our loved ones, as well as ourselves  May You hear us now as we silently pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit.

Pastor:             May the Lord restore us physically and mentally, emotionally and spiritually. In Jesus' Name, we ask. Amen.

(Healing prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 14)

Singing of “Jesus Draw Me Close.”

Prayer of Illumination

Reader:           Holy Spirit, You have called us to be here in church today. You want us to receive Christ’s message, and to apply His teachings in our daily lives. Open our hearts and minds to all that God gives us through these sacred words. In Jesus' Name, we pray.  Amen.

Scripture Readings

The Message & The Apostles' Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory

Dedication (unison): Lord Jesus, we do not deserve to be called Your followers, for we are the least among Your people. We allow pride and prejudice to work against Your church at times, and we are not always constant with our worship, duty, or faith. During this offering, we want to re-dedicate our lives and pledge our faith in You alone. Take our tithes and gifts, and bless them for the hallowed work of Your Church on Earth. In Your Sacred Name, we give and pray. Amen.

Closing Hymn:

Benediction (unison): May Christ make our lives a living testimony of faith; may the Father's love keep us focused and sincere; and may the Holy Spirit grant us wisdom and shower us with grace. To the glory and honor of the One, Triune, and Living God, both now and forevermore. Amen.           

Doxology         May God's Blessing & Postlude

Sunday Worship Prayers - Ordinary 22A - 28 August

Approaching God

Prelude

Welcome and Announcements

Gathering Song

Call to Worship

Pastor:             O Lord, look down from Your sanctuary on high; cast Your loving gaze upon Your people.

People:           We will declare the deeds of the Lord and give praises to His holy Name.

Leader:            We have assembled to glorify and worship God. Let us continue to love and adore Him.

First Hymn:

           

Prayers of Adoration and Confession

Guide:              Heavenly Father and Wonderful King, we humble ourselves in Your sacred presence; we rejoice in Your holy love. We belong to You and so we seek to serve Your Kingdom. We exalt Your powerful ways and lift up on high Your Everlasting Name.

People:           Loving God, in the midst of our many needs and numerous wants, we sometimes give in to temptation and sin, selfishness and pride. When we go against Your Word or turn our backs on Your counsel, forgive our foolishness and pardon our ingratitude. Hear us now as we confess our sins to You alone.

- Silent Confessions -

Guide: Eternal Lord, through Your divine wisdom, we have been given a Holy Savior. By Your compassionate love and perfect grace, we have been redeemed through Jesus Christ, our Lord. We make our confessions in Christ's Name, knowing that He has all authority in Heaven and on Earth to restore us completely to You. In His sacred words, we now pray, "Our Father, Who art in Heaven...THE LORD’S PRAYER" (debts/debtors)

           

Promise of the Gospel:

Guide:              Christ stooped down from Heaven to become one of us. His perfect obedience to God led Him to be sacrificed for all of our past mistakes and shameful sins. He writes our names in the Book of Life and reclaims us as God's own. Let us rejoice in our Redeemer and celebrate the everlasting victory of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Gloria Patri (sung in unison): 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Offering & Offertory anthem

Dedication (unison):              Lord Jesus, You enable us to interpret Your teachings through acts of devotion and love.  Faithfully, we bring before You our tithes and gifts, asking that You will bless them for the preaching of Your Word and the praising of God's Name. Amen.

Children leave for Enrichment and Planet Worship

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor:             O LORD, we cry aloud to You and lift up our voices for mercy. We pour out our petitions to You, O Lord; we tell our heartfelt troubles to You alone.

People:           When our spirits are weary and our hearts are full of anxiety, we turn to You, O Lord, who sees the way ahead. When we feel isolated and alone, uncared for and unloved, we seek refuge in You, our God.

Pastor:             The Lord is our source for strength. He has the power to overcome our sickness, suffering and pain. Rescue us, O Lord, and all our loved ones, for we are in need of healing, wholeness and recovery from all that harms us in body, mind, heart and soul.  Hear us now as we silently pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit.

Pastor:             The Lord sets us free from our fears and restores us by His goodness, compassion, and love. In Jesus' Name, we pray.  Amen.

(Healing prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 142)

           

Singing of ‘Jesus, Draw Me Close.’

Prayer of Illumination:

Reader:            Holy Spirit, grant us wisdom and understanding of these sacred scriptures. Speak to our hearts and fill us with Christ's love. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture Readings

The Message & the Apostles' Creed

Serving God

Closing Hymn:

Benediction (unison): May we obediently serve Christ in our daily lives; may the Father's wisdom brings us everlasting joy; and may the Holy Spirit keep us faithfully devoted to the One, Triune and Living God, both now and always. Amen.

Doxology         Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude

            

Sunday prayers: 12th in Ordinary Time June 22

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer

Guide: Heavenly Father, You have called us from our homes to worship You. You have led us to this holy place to adore Your ways and accept Your word. We abide in Your sacred presence and seek Your favor and love. We are strengthened by Your grace and blessed by Your compassion.

People: Everlasting God, we know that our lives are far from being perfect. We have followed paths which have led us astray. We have made decisions which have damaged our faith. Have mercy upon us and deliver us from punishment, abandonment and wrath. Free us from hopelessness, fear and despair. Restore us to Your salvation by receiving our personal confessions. Hear us now as we silently and sincerely pray.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Immortal God, You have given us the sacred opportunity of being forgiven for all our past foolishness, faithlessness and sinful mistakes. We are redeemed through the blood of Your Son Jesus Christ and all our mistakes are pardoned through His sacrifice at Calvary.

People: We are unworthy to receive such blessings, but we are totally grateful to be reclaimed as Your people and restored as the children of Your grace. Hear us now as we pray in our Savior’s own words, saying, “Our Father, …THE LORD”S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel:
Guide: Jesus will forgive us each time we sincerely ask Him. Our souls are nourished by His words and our spirits are enhanced by His love. So let us rejoice and be glad for our salvation is here, through Jesus Christ our Lord, both now and forever. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Anthem

Minute for Nominations

Encountering God

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Hear our cries, O God; listen to our heartfelt prayers. Deep within our souls, we call to You. When we are weak and our hearts are troubled, be the rock of our salvation.
Guide: You are our refuge and our strength against all things which harm us in body, mind, heart and soul. We seek to dwell in Your healing presence and look to You to keep us safe from illness and injury, disease and despair, pain and suffering.
Pastor: We call upon You on behalf of ourselves, our loved ones and those whom we know need Your help. May Your love and faithfulness protect all of us and may our loved ones experience Your peace and blessing, Your hope and healing. Hear us now as we pray.

Silent Prayers for ourselves and others. A candle is lit

All: May we sing praise to the One True and Living God, whose compassionate healing is given and fulfilled in each of our lives this day. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 61)

Singing of Jesus Draw Me close

Prayer for Illumination :
Reader : Holy Spirit, may we glorify Jesus with our minds and hearts. May we understand His actions and applaud His ministry as we read and receive His sacred words. In His Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:
Dedication : Lord Jesus, You have granted us faith through the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. You have allowed us to be healed of the past and strengthen for what lies ahead of us. In return, we bring before You these gifts, knowing that we cannot ever repay You for everything that You have done for us. Take these tokens and bless them for the continuing work of Your ministry here on earth. In Your Name, we pray. Amen.

Hymn :

Benediction: May Christ enable us to serve Him each and everyday; may the Father continually teach us from His Holy Word,; and may the Holy Spirit empower us to witness effectively and faithfully to the One, Triune and Living God, from this day forth and forevermore.

Doxology & Postlude

Sunday prayers: 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Most Righteous and Everlasting God, who is worshipped by Your people in every land, we humbly approach You in prayer and, with our praises, we seek to honor Your deeds and rejoice in Your love. You have guided us to this sacred place. You have called us by name and brought us into Your Holy Presence. We are honored by Your favor and blessed by Your grace.

People: Gracious Lord, we have wasted parts of our lives on foolish notions, wayward acts and sinful deeds. We have neglected Your ways and followed our selfish aims. We have disregarded Your perfect counsel and made our own sinful decisions. We have pleased ourselves and disappointed You. We are guilty of neglect, indifference, pride and stubbornness. We are sorry for our personal sins and we regret the mistakes that we have made. Hear us now, Loving Father, as we confess our faults to You alone.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Eternal God, thank You for hearing our prayers and forgiving our sins. Through the precious blood of Jesus, Your Holy Son, we have been reclaimed to Your Kingdom and restored to Your Blessing. We make our prayers in Jesus’ Name and through His precious words, we continue to pray, saying, “Our Father, … THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel:
Guide: Jesus, the Bread of God, came down from heaven to give us life. He has the divine right to forgive our sins and the authority to reclaim us for God. In Christ, we have our perfect Savior, so let us glorify and exult His powerful Name, forever and always. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: O God, do not reject our prayers or afflict us with pain. Make peace with us and restore us to Your love. Our lives have been afflicted with weakness and plagued with illness. Heal our broken bodies and mend our crushed spirits.
People: In times like these, we need Your blessing. Throughout our troubles, we need Your peace. In the midst of our fears, be our strength. Help us and all our loved ones to recover our strength, to regain our health, and to renew our hope.
Pastor: Save us from sickness and heal us through Your infinite power. Deliver us from distress and despair through Your gracious love. Speak softly to our souls as we bring You our prayers for healing on behalf of ourselves and all our loved ones..

Silent Prayers for ourselves and others. A candle is lit

All: With God, we will regain our strength. He will vanquish our fears and uplift our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 60)

Anthem

Prayer for Illumination :
Reader : Holy Spirit, surprise our souls with the sacred words of Jesus. Enable us to look to Christ for inspiration, hope and strength. Empower us through the riches of His grace and the glory of His works. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:

Dedication : Lord Jesus, God has arranged our lives so that we may serve You at this time, in this place of power and prayer. He wants us to continue Your ministry through the dedication of our lives and the giving of our resources. Bless our tithes and gifts, so that we may honor You through the preaching of the Word and the glorifying of God’s Name, both now and always. Amen.

Hymn :

Benediction: May Christ enhance our spiritual gifts through His infinite grace; may the Father increase our faith by allowing us to share it with others; and may the Holy Spirit cause us to faithfully interpret these times, so that we may live glorifying and praising the One, True and Living God, forever and ever. Amen.

Doxology & Postlude

Sunday Prayers: 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Approaching God

Announcements & A Word of Welcome

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Most Noble and Righteous God, Almighty and Everlasting Creator, on this sacred day, we gather before You as a church community and family of faith. You know us completely and despite our faults and failures, You have called us to be here, in Your Holy House, to experience Your strengthening Spirit and powerful presence.

People: Gracious God, we know that we are unworthy of Your blessings and that our lives contain moments of sin, shame and selfishness. Forgive us for being impatient and impersonal with others; pardon us for being self-centered and shallow; have mercy upon us for breaking promises and creating disappointments. Hear us now as we silently confess our sins.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Eternal Lord, thank You for pardoning us of all our resentful and bitter deeds, as well as our faithless and foolish ways. We are humbled by Your gracious love; we are grateful for Christ's complete obedience and perfect sacrifice. In His Name, we make these prayers and untie our hearts with His by saying, “Our Father…” THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: Christ publicly died for our hidden sins. He endured a humiliating death, so that we may be joyfully restored and welcomed by God. We are unworthy of Christ's blessings, but we rejoice in the fact that His Life, Death, and Resurrection grants us the eternal opportunity to be received by God as His adopted heirs and blessed children, both now and always. Amen.

Gloria Patri: 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Choir Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Let us quietly approach the LORD of love and justice; let us prayerfully call upon His name. Let us faithfully ask for His blessings and we will hopefully discover His favor.
People: We set our hearts on receiving His perfect power; we proclaim His wonderful deeds. We will draw closer to our loving God; we will place our prayers before Him.
Pastor: The LORD knows the cares of our hearts and understands the burdens on our minds. Gracious Lord, dwell within us so that our strength may return. Come amongst us, so that our bodies may be renewed. Heal us and all our loved ones from all that harms us physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Hear us now as we personally pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit.

All: May the Lord be gracious unto all of us. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
(Healing prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 101)

Singing of ‘Jesus, Draw me Close’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, show us Christ's faithful ways through the reading of these sacred scriptures. Open our hearts to the relevant messages and teach our minds the personal truths that we can express in our daily lives. In Christ's Name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory
Dedication: Lord Jesus, You have strengthened our spirits with Your words of goodness and grace. In response, we cheerfully give You our tithes and offerings. May these tokens be blessed and become fruitful for the preaching of Your word, the growing of Your church, and the healing of the world. In Your Precious Name, we give and pray. Amen.

Closing Hymn:

Benediction: May Christ be within our hearts, each and every day; may the Father guide and bless us always; and may the Holy Spirit keep us sacred and sanctified to the glory of the One, Triune and Living God, both now and forever. Amen.

Doxology & Postlude

Sunday prayers - 8th in ordinary Time - 25 May 2008

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements
Prelude & Gathering
Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Everlasting Majesty and Lord of all Creation, we lift our voices to praise Your Holy Name; we lift up our hearts to cheerfully rejoice in Your sacred presence. Throughout the whole earth, millions of people are blessing and glorifying Your power. Today, we gladly join them in the worship of Your ways and the praising of Your deeds.
People: Gracious Father, we know that our lives are imperfect and filled with moments of sinful mistakes. We have been selfish, proud and faithless; stubborn, greedy and indifferent; angry, bitter and spiteful. Heavenly Lord, forgive us when temptation overcomes us and sin overwhelms our hearts. Pardon us for neglecting our responsibilities and casting aside our faith. To You alone, we offer these personal confessions and seek Your mercy through Your Holy Son Jesus Christ. Hear us now as we silently pray.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Loving God, without Christ’s sacrifice, we would have no one to restore us; we would have no escape from Your wrath; and no hope of entering into Your everlasting Kingdom. Humbly and thankfully, we make these prayers in the Name of Jesus, our Only Savior and True Lord, and in His precious words, we unite our hearts, saying, “Our Father,…THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel:
Guide: Jesus, through the love of His Father, gives us the Bread of Heaven. By Christ’s wounded body, our broken ways are healed; by His perfect obedience, we are reclaimed by God. Let us cheerfully rejoice, for our sins are completely forgiven, both now and forever. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Children’s Sermon

Encountering God

Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Have mercy upon us, O God, have mercy upon us, for in You our souls take refuge. We cry out to the One Most High God, who fulfills the purposes of our lives. Loving Lord, send forth Your mercy from heaven; release us from our fears through the power of Your faithful love.
People: In the midst of our anxieties and troubles, grant us peace. From the discomfort of our illnesses and the suffering we endure, heal us, O Lord. Let Your goodness and grace, greatness and glory be experienced in our lives and our loved ones, as we seek healing from all that harms us in body, mind, heart and spirit.
Pastor: Deliver us and all whom we pray for, from distress, disease and despair. Hear us now as we silently pray.

Silent Prayers for ourselves and others. A candle is lit

All: Great is Your love, O Lord, reaching from the farthest heavens into the very substance of our lives. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 57)

Prayer for Illumination :
Reader : Holy Spirit, may we walk through the Scriptures and be led to a beautiful place. May we be filled with wonder and amazement through all that Christ has done for our lives. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & offertory

Dedication : Lord Jesus, we all have special gifts and talents, and we all have different resources and treasures. When we combine them and gather them before You, we glorify Your work and continue to enhance Your Name. Take our tithes and gifts; bless them for the life, work and ministry of Erin Church, which You ask us to undertake, support and fulfill in Your Holy Name. Amen.

Hymn :

Benediction: May Christ keep us united to His body so that we may accomplish great things in His Name; may the Father sustain us as members of Christ’s church, so that we may honor His Kingdom; and may the Holy Spirit grant us a new vision so that we may fulfill the purposes of the One, Triune and Living God in this church and community, both now and always. Amen.

Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude

Sunday Prayers : Pentecost May 11, 2008

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Eternal Creator of Life, whose precious words gave birth to the Universe and whose wonderful ways sustain this planet we call Earth, we approach You with our prayers and praises, asking that You will hear our heartfelt cries and be pleased with our songs of salvation.

People: Merciful Father, we know that our lives are not perfect, nor are we fully faithful or thoroughly devoted to You. We have gone astray and fallen into temptation, letting sin overtake our souls and permitting greed to damage our spirits. Gracious God, forgive the mistakes we have made, the disappointments we have caused, the responsibilities we have neglected, and the blessings we have wasted. Help us to yield our hearts and humble our pride through the pledging of our lives to Your Son Jesus Christ, our Savior. Hear us now as we confess our sins to You alone.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Compassionate Lord, thank You for hearing our prayers and petitions. Thank You for bringing Jesus into our lives. We know that His Sacrifice has canceled all our sins and created clean hearts, new lives, and faithful spirits within all of us. We make our prayers in Jesus’ Name and unite our hearts with Him, saying, “Our Father...THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel:
Guide: Jesus is the Bread of Life that we need to nourish our souls and strengthen our spirits. He alone has the power and authority to forgive our sins and restore us to God’s favor and grace. So let us celebrate His goodness and glory in His love, both now and forever. Amen.

Gloria Patri (sung): 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.

Children’s sermon – Kids & parents come down to front of the church

Baptism

Encountering God

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Be merciful to us, O God, for our worries burden us, especially when we are under pressure. O Lord, when we are anxious and afraid, help us to trust in You.
People: O God, whose words we praise, take away our fears and grant us peace of mind. We place our lives, and our loved ones into Your Holy hands.
Pastor: We pledge ourselves to Your Kingdom and humbly ask that You will heal us, and all whom we pray for, from all that harms us in body, mind, heart and spirit. Hear us now as we personally pray.

Silent Prayers for ourselves and others. A candle is lit

All: May we walk before the Lord in the light of His love. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 56)

Anthem

Prayer for Illumination :
Reader : Holy Spirit, may we walk with Christ as we read and hear these sacred scriptures. May we be drawn nearer to Him, so that we may praise and glorify His wonderful ministry on earth. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:
Dedication : Lord Jesus, we all belong to Your body of believers and we are called to support Your continuing ministry in our community and throughout the earth. Sanctify our tithes and gifts, so that they may be used for the life, work and mission of Your church. In Your Holy Name, we give and pray. Amen.

Hymn :

Benediction: May Christ’s grace keep us humble; may the Father’s blessings keep us faithful; and may the Holy Spirit’s guidance keep us loving and serving the One Living Triune God, both now and always. Amen.

Doxology & Postlude

Sunday prayers: 7th Sunday of Easter May 4, 2008

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Almighty God and Most Powerful Lord, whose kingdom is boundless and whose authority can never be diminished, we come before Your Holy Throne to worship and adore Your ways, to honor and glorify Your deeds, to revere and esteem Your sacred words. You have called us to this place of peace and prayer. You have brought us to this sanctuary of strength and salvation, so that we may praise Your Holy Name and become renewed through Your wonderful love.

People: Gracious Lord, at times we ruin our faith through selfish and dishonest ways. There are moments in our lives when, through our pride, our greed, our longings and acts of defiance, we scorn Your sacred guidance and reject Your Holy commands. Forgive our foolish sins and redeem us from our random acts of unkindness, bitterness, indifference and intolerance. Pardon our neglect of caring for others, of forgetting to forgive our debtors, of ignoring those who need our help. Hear us now as we silently and sincerely confess our sins, our faults, our everyday mistakes.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Merciful Father, tear down the walls of sin and pride which have separated our hearts from You. Lead us to Jesus Christ Your Holy Son and help us to follow His faithful ways. For we ask this in Jesus’ Sacred Name and through His own words we pray, saying, “Our Father, …THE LORD’S PRAYER…debts/debtors

Promise of the Gospel:
Guide: Jesus performed many wonders and miraculous signs during His ministry on earth. Today, we each experience the miracle of absolute forgiveness and the wonder of being completely restored to God’s Holy Kingdom. So let us be thankful and rejoice, for Jesus is the One True and Only Savior that we will ever need. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Children’s sermon

Anthem

Minute for Mission: Pentecost Offering

Encountering God

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Listen to our prayers, O God, do not ignore our pleas; hear us and answer us. We are troubled by our worries and made weary through our concerns.
People: Sickness and suffering has come into our lives by accident, injury, distress and disease. Our hearts are deeply troubled, and at times our minds find no peace; we are afraid of the future, so we need Your healing mercies.
Pastor: Almighty Father, enable us to face our fears, to overcome our anxieties and to vanquish all that harms us in body, mind, soul and spirit. Embrace us and help to rest; enable us to look to You for health and healing, for ourselves, our loved ones, and all whom we know. Hear us as we pray.

Silent Prayers for ourselves and others. A candle is lit

All: Let us cast your cares upon the Lord, for He will sustain us. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen..
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 55)

Singing of Jesus Draw me Close

Prayer for Illumination :
Reader : Holy Spirit, strengthen us through these sacred scriptures and help us to walk in Christ’s ways. Fill us with joy and gladness, so that we may rejoice in the Lord and praise all His wonderful words. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:
Dedication : Lord Jesus, we bring these gifts from the many different fruits of our lives, and of the diverse blessings that You have given to each of us. Take this offering and bless it for the work of God’s Kingdom here on earth, through the ministries and missions that You have called Your people to continue and fulfill. In Your Holy Name. Amen.

Communion

Hymn :

Benediction: May Christ transform our lives by renewing our minds; may we discern what the Father’s will is for us and fulfill it each day; and may the Holy Spirit guide us towards all that is good, pleasing and perfect in God’s eyes, both now and always. Amen.

Doxology & Postlude

Sunday prayers - 6th Sunday of Easter - April 27, 2008

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Everlasting Father, whose deeds across the generations have sustained our people; whose ways throughout the centuries have enhanced our faith; we worship and adore You forever. Living God, whose purposes are never thwarted and whose plans are always fulfilled, we look to You for favor and blessing, mercy and grace.

People: Immortal Lord, we know that we are weak and human, that our bodies are frail and our minds are constantly distracted. Forgive us when we allow our wants and desires to become sinful and selfish. Deliver us from deceitful and dishonorable deeds; pardon us for making poor choices and persistently opposing Your power over our lives. Hear us now as we silently confess our sins.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Almighty God, refresh us with Your loving kindness; restore us through Your Holy Son. May Christ claim authority over our lives, by cleansing our souls and renewing our faith in You. For we make our requests by the power of Jesus' Name and in His own holy words, we continue to pray, saying, “Our Father, …” THE LORD’S PRAYER (debt/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: Our Lord Jesus placed Himself in harm's way and died upon a lonely Cross, so that we may be forgiven and restored to God's love. We deserve God's punishment for our mistakes, yet Christ shields us from God's wrath and brings us back into His Holy Presence and Everlasting Favor. Let us rejoice and glorify our Savior forever. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Baptism

Encountering God

Choir Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Let us come to the Lord with praise and thanksgiving, for He has done marvelous things. The Lord has made His salvation known to us and revealed His righteousness to all our people.
People: May the Lord remember His love for us as we present our petitions; may His faithfulness grant us courage and hope. May we joyfully proclaim God's healing amongst us; may we shout for joy when He answers our prayers.
Pastor: O Lord, please hear our request and reform our lives. Take our sicknesses, and renew our health by Your gracious love. Precious Lord, be near to us and all our loved ones. Heal us from all that harms us in body, mind, heart and spirit. Hear us now as we quietly pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit

Pastor: Let our hearts resound in faith; let our hopes be realized through God's favor and blessing. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 98)

Singing of ‘Jesus, Draw Me Close’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, may Christ speak to us through the words of the Gospel. May all that You inspired centuries ago become holy and sacred, meaningful and relevant in each of our lives today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory

Dedication: Lord Jesus, may we excel in faithfulness, as we give these gifts to build up the church. May we eagerly serve You with our time, talents and tithes, as we contribute our resources, gifts and money to You this day. Bless this offering and guide us to use it wisely for the life, work and ministry of Your Kingdom here on earth. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

Hymn:

Benediction: May Christ write His ways across our hearts; may the Father teach us to worship reverently; and may the Holy Spirit empower us to confess our faith in the One, Triune and Eternal God, both now and always. Amen.

Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude

Sunday prayers: 5th Sunday of Easter - April 20, 2008

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Immortal God, who brought Life into being and whose Will sustains the entire universe, we approach You as the children of Your Grace and as servants of Your Kingdom. Your ways are mysterious and yet Your love is known by all; we glorify Your greatness and magnify Your Holy Name.
People: Merciful Lord, You know that we struggle with temptation and wrestle with sin. You know all our weaknesses and can list every mistake we have made. God of patience and benevolence, have mercy upon us. Forgive our foolish and unfaithful ways. Pardon us for our indifference to the needy, and for failing to help those in trouble. Hear us now as we silently pray.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Everlasting God, we cannot bring salvation to ourselves. We depend upon Jesus to grant us pardon. Only He can save us from Your judgment. Only He can restore us to Your favor.
People: Hear us now as we sincerely unite our hearts with Jesus, through the saying of Christ's own words: “Our Father…” THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: Christ forgives us, even when we betray and deny Him. He has the power to cleanse us of the past and restore us to the riches of God's grace. So let us be thankful and rejoice in the Lord, for He has saved our souls and returned us to the eternal love of God. Amen.

Gloria Patri: 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Choir Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: The LORD reigns, let us all be glad; let those both near and far rejoice. Our prayers and petitions are made to Him, for righteousness and justice are the foundations of His love.
People: We will place our prayers before Him, knowing that God receives them from all of our hearts. O Lord, light up our lives with Your favors and blessings; let us see Your compassion and know that You care.
Pastor: Our fears melt our courage and our worries diminish with our faith, yet we still ask the Lord for the healing of all that harms us in body, mind, heart and spirit. We proclaim His righteousness and ask to see His glory in the lives of our loved ones who are suffering from sickness and injury, unease and fear, worry and discomfort. Hear us, O Lord, as we quietly pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit

All: The light of the Lord's love is shed upon us; His joy is showered upon our hearts.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 97)

Singing of ‘Jesus, Draw Me Close’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, may the words of the Lord who made the heavens and the earth, penetrate our minds and enter our hearts. May we gladly receive the blessings of Christ as He teaches us through His Gospel, both now and always. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:

Dedication: Lord Jesus, we have grasped the meaning of selfless giving through the preaching of Your word. In return, we gather before You our tithes and offerings. We do this to please You, so we ask that You bless all of these resources for the building up of Your church, the proclaiming of the Gospel, and the praising of God's Name. Amen.

Hymn

Benediction: May Christ keep us from judging other people's mistakes by helping us to remember that He has forgiven our own; may the Father bless us with tolerance and compassion for one another; and may the Holy Spirit bring us to God's judgment seat as faithful and dutiful servants, both now and forevermore. Amen.

Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude

Sunday Prayers Easter 4 13 April 2008

Approaching God

Welcome & Announcements

Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Almighty and Everlasting King, Most Merciful and Majestic God, we gather in this place of peace and praise, of joy and jubilation, as one family of faith, one church of Christ. On this day we celebrate the victory of Your Son Jesus Christ. We proclaim His power over all of our lives, His authority to forgive our mistakes, and His ability to change our lives.
People: Gracious Lord, we know that we have been foolish, selfish and sinful at times. We recognize that we have made mistakes, bad choices and faithless decisions. We are truly sorry for those moments when temptation has caused us to get angry, be bitter, remain proud or be insensitive to those around us. Hear us now as we confess our faults and silently pray.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Eternal Lord, on this Sabbath day, we claim the victory of Christ over temptation, sin, and death. His sacrifice has cleared our mistakes. His grace can renew and bring rebirth to our lives.
People: We make our prayers in the Name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray, saying, “Our Father, …THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: Christ chooses us to become His disciples, even though He has to deal with our sinful nature and human failings. He has overcome both death and sin, so our souls can be resurrected to a new beginning. Let us rejoice and give thanks, for Christ has blessed us with an everlasting hope and He has saved our lives forever. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Minute for Mission: VBS

Choir Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Let us praise the LORD with new hearts; let us rejoice with all the earth and glorify His Name. Each day, we will proclaim the Lord's salvation; each week, we will come to Him with our praises.
People: The Lord has done marvelous deeds among His people, therefore we ask Him to heal our lives. O LORD, You are great and most worthy of our worship; You are above and beyond all that we know.
Pastor: O LORD, You made the heavens and sustain the nations; be merciful to us and grant us healing from all that harms us in body, mind, heart and soul. Your power and strength are in this sanctuary; listen to our prayers and mercifully attend to the needs of our loved ones who are ill, distressed, worried or depressed.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit

ALL: We will worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness. We will give thanks throughout this day. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 96)

Singing of ‘Jesus, Draw Me Close’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, release us from our fears and restore us to God's heart. Open our minds to this glorious message of hope, so that we may gladly receive Christ as our King and report His words to all our people. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:

Dedication: (unison) Lord Jesus, through the act of cheerful and thankful giving, we offer You these tokens. Bless them for Your wonderful ways that have changed the world forever. Enable us to rededicate our lives this day, in the holy service of Your Kingdom. Both now and forever. Amen.

Hymn

Benediction: (unison) May Christ resurrect our faith by becoming the Lord of our lives; may we know the Father's compassion and grace throughout our days; and may the Holy Spirit keep us glorifying and worshipping the One, Triune God, both now and always. Amen.

Doxology & Postlude

Sunday prayers: 3rd Sunday in Easter 6 April 2008

Approaching God

Welcome & announcements
Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: LORD God Almighty, Creator of the Universe and Sustainer of our lives, we come to You with our prayers and petitions, our cares and concerns. You have called us by name to come into Your House. You have welcomed us to this sanctuary of praise and peace, holiness and healing.

People: Loving God, in the midst of our troubles, we call upon Your Name. We look for Your help and inspiration; Your patience and forgiveness; Your mercy and grace. We have sinned against You and have allowed ourselves to be overcome by temptation. We have neglected our faith and cast aside Your words. Forgive our foolish and arrogant ways; pardon our selfish and faithless choices. Hear us now as we silently pray.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Merciful Father, You could discipline and punish us, reject and ignore us. Instead, You lovingly allow us to approach Your Holy Son Jesus to seek forgiveness, absolution and acquittal for our sins. We praise You for sending Him to us and for His perfect and passionate sacrifice, which wipes out our wicked and wayward choices.

People: From our hearts and by our lips, we make these whispered prayers. We unite ourselves with Jesus, in whose words, we now pray, saying, “Our Father, …THE LORD’S PRAYER (DEBTS/DEBTORS)

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: We believe and know that Christ is the Holy One of God. His Passion and obedience, His Crucifixion and sacrifice, have given us the glorious opportunity of remitting our sins, renewing our lives and restoring us to God's favor and blessing. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Choir Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: Come, let us pray for healing from the LORD; let us voice our concerns to the Rock of our salvation. We come before God with our personal pleas; we pray to Him sincerely and faithfully.
People: The LORD is the great God, the great King above all. He will hear our prayers and answer our needs. From His hands comes the power of healing. Have mercy upon us O Lord, for we belong to You.
Pastor: We are His, for He made us; He shapes our lives and has the power to save our souls. Almighty God, we bow down before You; heal us and all our loved ones from sickness and despair; pain and anxiety; suffering and depression. Hear us now as we quietly pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit

All: The LORD is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 95)

Singing of ‘Sanctuary’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, let the words and ways of Jesus touch our hearts today. May His miracles and messages challenge our lives so that we may change our church, community and country. To the glory of God forever. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:

Dedication: Lord Jesus, we express our faith and thanksgiving through these tithes and offerings. Bless them for the life, work and ministry of Your church and the preaching, teaching and proclaiming of Your Gospel. In Your Holy Name, we give and pray. Amen.

Communion

Hymn

Benediction :( in unison) May Christ be the Lord of our lives throughout our days on earth; may the Father enhance our faith and life through His loving ways; and may the Holy Spirit keep us serving the One, Triune and Living God, in this world and the next. Amen.

Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude

Sunday prayers - 2nd Sunday of Easter - 30 March, 2008

Approaching God

Welcome and Announcements
Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Lord of all the earth and King of every nation, we applaud Your glorious deeds and exalt Your Name above all others. Your power has been praised by every generation. You have enhanced the earth with hope and faith.

People: Glorious God of the Universe, we seek to serve You in this sacred sanctuary; we look to praise and honor You with our hearts and lives. Merciful Father, You know everything about us. You have seen us sin and have watched us yield to temptation. We crave Your forgiveness of all our faults and we plead for pardon of our past mistakes. Hear us now as we silently confess to You alone.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Gracious Lord, Your Sovereignty extends over all our lives. You are above and beyond all that we can ever experience or know. Without Your mercy, our lives are meaningless. Without Your Son, we have no salvation.

People: We make these petitions in the Name of Jesus, the Holy One, whose sacrifice takes away our sins. In His own words, we now pray, saying, “Our Father, …THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts/debtors)

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: We can only go to Jesus for forgiveness, for He alone has the authority to restore us to God; He alone has the words of eternal life. So let us rejoice and be glad, for Jesus is our Savior and Lord forever. Amen.

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Choir Anthem

Minute for Mission

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: O LORD, You teach us lessons of faith in times of trouble. Hear us now as we pray and grant us relief from sickness and suffering. Help us to hold on to hope and take courage in Your promises.

People: In the face of fear, never forsake us. In times of isolation, be our Comforter. Help us and heal us, O Lord. Strengthen and support us, console our spirits and lighten our burdens.

Pastor: Loving Lord, when we are overcome with worry or weariness, grant us peace of mind and rest for our souls. When we are anxious about our families and friends, bestow upon them wholeness and healing that will generate joy and faith in their lives. Hear us now as we pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit

All: The LORD is our fortress of faith and the Rock, in whom we take refuge. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 94)

Singing of ‘Jesus Draw Me Close’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, may we continue to praise God for all that happens in these scriptures. May these stories and events draw us closer to His ways and enable us to share our faith with other people. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:
Dedication: (in unison) Lord Jesus, You have clearly called us to be here today. We have learned of Your ways and studied God's Word. Bless these offerings and tithes, as we dedicate them to Your continuing work in this world. May our gifts enhance Your mission to spread the Gospel throughout our community, and all over the earth. In Your Holy Name, we give and pray. Amen.

Hymn:

Benediction: (in unison) May Christ enable us to live each day for Him alone; may the Father free us from fear and keep us in His constant care; and may the Holy Spirit strengthen our faith, so that we may belong to the One, Triune and Living God, both now and always. Amen.

Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude

Sunday prayers Palm Sunday Mar 16

Approaching God

Welcome & announcements
Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Lord of Life and Creator of the Universe, we proclaim You as our One, True and Holy God. We seek to serve You as Your called and chosen people.
People: Everlasting King and Eternal God, we adore Your wonderful ways and are constantly amazed by Your powerful deeds.

Guide: Heavenly Father, we want to please You and follow Your ways. However, we allow pride and bitterness, prejudice and anger to hurt other people, to have our own way, and to fulfill our selfish desires.
People: Gracious Lord, when we fall into temptation, we separate ourselves from Your Love and deaden our spirits to Your commands. Forgive us for rejecting Your words and damaging our faith by our unloving, unholy and un-Christian actions. Hear us now as we humbly confess our sins to You alone.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Merciful God, You have the power to judge and punish us for our sins. Instead, You graciously give us Your Son Jesus to die for our failures, faults and fallen ways. By His wounds, we are healed. By His sacrifice, we are forgiven and restored
People: We bring these prayers in Christ’s Name and through His own words, we unite our hearts with Him, saying, “Our Father, etc.”

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: Jesus saves us from sinful destruction and the eternal wrath of God. He wants us to choose life over death, faith over fear and obedience over defiance. When we sincerely come to Him for forgiveness, he grants us mercy and grace. Let us rejoice and be glad, for Jesus our Savior rescues us forever. Amen. (John 6:67)

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God

Choir Anthem

Prayers for Health and Healing

Pastor: The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty and is armed with strength. God establishes our world and sustains our lives.
People: Eternal God, we are finite and frail, in need of help, healing and wholeness. We lift up our voices of prayer to You, from our fearful hearts and troubled minds.
Pastor: Mighty Redeemer, have mercy upon us and heal us of all that harms us in body, mind, heart and spirit. We also bring to You our families and friends, colleagues and neighbors who need Your Loving touch and holy healing. Hear us now as we pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit

All: The LORD is merciful and holy; just and faithful. He hears our prayers in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 93)

Singing of ‘Jesus Draw Me Close’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, help us to see what Christ is doing amongst us. Enable us to hear His words from these holy passages. Teach us His ways so that we may tell others of His ministry, mission and kingdom. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God

Offering & Offertory:
Dedication: Lord Jesus, we have worshipped You in song and praised You with our music. We have gathered our tithes and offerings and placed them before Your throne. Take these tokens and bless them, so that we may bring life to Your words by ministering to our congregation, across our community and throughout this country. In Your Holy Name, we give and pray. Amen.

Hymn:

Benediction: May the God of hope fill us with all joy and peace as we trust in Him, so that we may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; One God forevermore. Amen.

Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude

Sunday Prayers: Lent 5 March 09

Approaching God
Welcome & Church Announcements Prelude & Gathering

Hymn:

Confessional Prayer
Guide: Lord of Life and Creator of the Universe, we proclaim You as our One, true and Holy God. We serve You as Your called and chosen people.
People: Everlasting King and Eternal God, we adore Your wonderful ways and are constantly amazed by Your powerful deeds.
Guide: Heavenly Father, we seek to please Your heart and follow Your will. Yet we allow pride and bitterness, prejudice and anger to hurt other people, to have our own way, to fulfill our selfish desires.
People: Gracious Lord, when we fall into temptation, we separate ourselves from Your Love and deaden our spirits to Your commands. Forgive us for rejecting Your words and damaging our faith by our unloving, unholy and un-Christian actions. Hear us now as we humbly confess our sins to You alone.

- SILENCE -

Guide: Merciful God, You have the power to wipe out our dreams and punish our sins. Instead, You graciously give us Your Son Jesus to die for our failures, faults and fallen ways. By His wounds, we are healed. By His sacrifice, we are forgiven and restored
People: We bring these prayers in Christ’s Name and through His own words, we unite our hearts with Him, saying, “Our Father, etc.” (Isaiah 26v14)

Promise of the Gospel
Guide: Jesus saves us from sinful destruction and the eternal wrath of God. He wants us to choose life over death, faith over fear and obedience over defiance. When we sincerely come to Him for forgiveness, he grants us mercy and grace. Let us rejoice and be glad, for Jesus our Savior rescues us forever. Amen. (John 6:67)

Gloria Patri : 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.

Family Sermon (parents and all children, including Elementary school students come forward)

Encountering God
Choir Anthem
Prayers for Health and Healing

Leader: The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty and is armed with strength.
People: God establishes our world and sustains our lives.
Leader: Eternal God, we are finite and frail, in need of help, healing and wholeness.
People: We lift up our voices of prayer to You, from our pounding hearts and troubled minds.
Leader: Mighty Redeemer, have mercy upon us and heal us of all that harms us in body, mind, heart and spirit.
People: Gracious God, we also bring to You our families and friends, colleagues and neighbors who need Your Loving touch and holy healing. Hear us now as we pray.

Silent Prayers for others and ourselves. A candle is lit
Leader: The LORD is merciful and holy; just and faithful. He hears our prayers in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
(Healing Prayer based on words & phrases from Psalm 93)

Singing of ‘Sanctuary’

Prayer for Illumination:
Reader: Holy Spirit, help us to see what Christ is doing amongst us. Enable us to hear His words from these holy passages. Teach us His ways so that we may tell others of His ministry, mission and kingdom. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. (Acts 4:20)

Scripture Readings & Sermon & The Apostles’ Creed

Serving God
Offering & Offertory:
Dedication: Lord Jesus, we have worshipped You in song and praised You with our music. We have gathered our tithes and offerings and placed them before Your throne. Take these lifeless tokens and bless them, so that we may bring life to Your words by ministering in our congregation, across our community and throughout this country. In Your Holy Name, we give and pray. Amen. (1 Corinthians 14:7)

Hymn:
Benediction: May Christ remind us that our lives are not our own, but chiefly belong to Him; may the father bestow His favor upon all that we do; and may the Holy Spirit reside in our hearts so that we may die to sin and live for faith in the One, triune and Living God, both now and always. Amen. (Romans 14:7)

Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; etc & Postlude