Morning Reflection

Like the unfolding of a fern or the leafing of a tree, like a steady mountain stream or strong waves of the sea, like a heart carrying blood to all parts of the body.  So you are present in us.

Chimes

Opening Prayer 1

Holy God of Joy, we rejoice in the reality of who you are. We live within the joy of your love for us. Our contentment comes and goes. Our happiness ebbs and flows. Our feelings depend upon our circumstances, our physical health, our brain chemistry. But our joy is deeply rooted in our identity as your beloved children. And we give you thanks. Amen.

Welcome

Introit     Joy-Bells Ringing In Your Heart     Stephen DeCesare/L.v. Beethoven

Call to Worship 2

The words God speaks are the life and sustenance of all that exists. The life Jesus gives is the re-creation and renewed birth of all that is broken and worn. The Spirit's stirring in our souls is the inspiration for creativity, compassion, joy, and community. Life-giving, life-restoring, life-fulfilling God; may our whole lives be worship. In all things, may we seek to connect with and to reflect your love and your hope. Let us worship God!

Hymn 393     O Day of Rest and Gladness

Prayer of Confession 2

Most Holy God, we confess to you and to each other that we are rarely just in all our ways, and far from being kind in all our doings. What we want to be and what we actually are, are two different things. Our lives are a mix, of kindness and meanness, of openness and cunning, of sincere love for you yet also of self-interest. We need both your justice and your kindness to convict us of our sins, to forgive and cleanse us, and to save us from the power of evil. We need your mercy to wipe away shame and disabling regrets, your light to give us our bearings, and your friendship to delight with us in our happiness and to comfort us in our sorrows. Hear us as we offer prayers of our heart silently now.

silence

Please grant to us, loving God, the grace of a new beginning and the joy of an enlarged love for you. Give us a passion for all your loving ways. Through Christ Jesus, amen.

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness 3

ONE: Holy Scripture says: “The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all and God's mercy is over all God's works.” In the name of the living God, through the grace of Christ Jesus the Son, and with the authority of the Spirit, we know that forgiveness is ours

ALL:  Thanks be to God!

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Scripture Reading: James 5:13-20

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Anthem     “O Christ, the Healer”     J.S. Bach

Sermon  "Prayer for the Community" Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 797     We Cannot Measure How You Heal

Invitation to the Offering

As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with all that God gives. We are so blessed here at Bethany, to have had such faithful, generous giving throughout such difficult times.  We have been able to continue the work and ministries that we are a part of.  Since we are here in person now, we have a basket here on the table again to receive your offerings now or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory     “The Steadfast Love”     Edith McNeill

Prayer of Dedication 4

Let us pray:  On our own what we have to give doesn't amount to much in the light of all you have given to us and in the face of so much need. Put together as a congregation, what we offer you here in love becomes more, not simply added together, but somehow multiplied in its usefulness. We ask you to bless our gifts and with the addition of your blessing, there is enough for all. In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.  Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

Prayers of the People

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 306  Blest Be the Tie That Binds

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude   “When We Pray”          Ethan Hulse, Tauren Wells, Colby Wedgeworth  

1Joanna Harader

2 The Minor Keys

3 adapted, from Bruce Prewer

4 adapted, Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand

Morning Reflection

Chimes

Opening Prayer 1

We praise you, O God, for breaking through to us in the person of Jesus, your Son, our Lord.  When the words of the prophets went unheard and when their actions were ignored, you spoke the creative word once more. Bringing order out of chaos again— this time not to bring a world into being, but to bring your very being into the world. The essence of your love taking on our flesh. In the midst of this congregation, we praise you. With our lives, we worship you. Gracious God, Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, to you be all glory and honor, now and forever.  Amen.

Welcome

Introit    “Blessed Jesus, At Thy Word”     Johann Ahle, Arr. Hilty

Call to Worship

ALL: Long ago, at different times and in various ways, God spoke to our ancestors through the Hebrew prophets. But in these last days, we have heard God's voice through His Son, Jesus Christ, who has been given dominion over all things and through whom all worlds were made. He is the One who sustains the universe by the power of his command; the One who gave himself to free us from the grip of sin and death; the One who, even now, reigns in the heavens, seated at the right hand of God. This is our God! Let's worship together.

Hymn 510     We Gather Here in Jesus' Name

Prayer of Confession 2

Great God of all creation, who are we that you are mindful of us? You who set the stars in motion, who launched waves crashing against the shore, who knows the heights and depths of the world; why do you bother with us? You count the hairs on our heads, and call us each by name. You give us your wisdom and you uphold us by your Spirit. You tend to us and care for us, and we do not understand why. We cannot grasp your love for us, O God, for it is unlike us to be that loving and forgiving. We become enmeshed by our own needs and wants and desires and we fail to see beyond anything but our own little circles. Turn us around, O God. Help us to see as you see, and to reach out as you reach out. Remind us once again of the sacredness of our ordinary, day-to-day lives. By your Spirit, teach us to live truly as beings little lower than angels. In your mercy, O God, forgive who we are and bless who we will be.

silence

Please grant to us, loving God, the grace of a new beginning and the joy of an enlarged love for you. Give us a passion for all your loving ways. Through Christ Jesus, amen.

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness 3

ONE: Jesus has come to heal our spirits and our souls. The demons of arrogance, indifference and apathy are being cast out. New life is offered to you in Jesus Christ. Rejoice! Be Glad! For God's love is poured out to you this day.  Amen.

ALL:  Thanks be to God!

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 1:1-4; and 2:5-12

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Anthem     “O Christ, the Healer”     J.S. Bach

Sermon  "Irreplicable" Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 263     All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name!

Invitation to the Offering

As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with all that God gives. We are so blessed here at Bethany, to have had such faithful, generous giving throughout such difficult times.  We have been able to continue the work and ministries that we are a part of.  Since we are here in person now, we have a basket here on the table again to receive your offerings now or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory     “Take, and Eat This Bread”     Arr. Todd Alan Constable

Prayer of Dedication

Holy One, whose heart abounds with gifts, receive this offering as a sign of our intention to live surrounded by your mercy, inspired by your Spirit, open to the joy of your presence, hospitable to one another, and generous toward your world. In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.   Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Preparation of the Table

Invitation and Great Prayer of Thanksgiving

LEADER: The Lord be with you

PEOPLE: And also with you

LEADER: Lift up your hearts

PEOPLE: We lift them up to the Lord

LEADER: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

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

LEADER: Let us pray.  Almighty and ever-living God...

Words of Institution

Sharing of the Cup and Bread

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Prayers of the People

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 769  For Everyone Born

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude   “When We Pray”          Ethan Hulse, Tauren Wells, Colby Wedgeworth  

1 Moira Laidlaw

2 Beth Merill Neel

3 Nancy C. Townley

Chimes

Opening Prayer 1

Lord, the eyes of all look to You in hope; and You give them what they need. You open Your hand and satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing. We, too, turn to You again, longing to be filled - to eat of the Bread of Life, to drink from Your life-giving streams, to taste Your goodness and live. May the time we spend together in Your presence nourish our hearts and minds; may it strengthen our relationship with You, and renew our commitment to live in this world as Your faithful disciples. For You alone are God, the Source and Sustainer of life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Welcome

Introit    “I Owe My Lord a Morning Song”     John Bell

Call to Worship 2

ALL:God is with God's people. God dwells in their midst. Listen and hear God speak. Our hearts long for God's word. We wait upon the Lord so that we may renew our strength. God is our help and our support. God's spirit moves among us to lead us in holiness and righteousness all our days. With joyful hearts we sing God's praise. With rejoicing we call upon God. The Lord is our hope and our salvation. Let us worship God!

Hymn 385     All People That on Earth Do Dwell

Prayer of Confession 3

We bless you for the love which has no dimension of length breadth or height, coming as it does from the perfection your being. We come to you knowing that sometimes we have received your grace in vain. We have not relied on your word or wisdom, we have not shown any concern or compassion when we should have; we have not loved our neighbor as we love ourselves. We have remained silent when we should have spoken and spoken when we should have been silent. We seize the moment to ask you from our discordant lives for yet another chance of hearing you say to us 'Your sins are forgiven'. May the mark of that forgiveness be your grace in us as we respond with grace and gratitude to your love. Eternal God as we ask that you accept our prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord, we pray that from the grace we have received, what we say and what we do will enable those around us to glimpse the life of the your Son -- who calmed the storm with words which still echo down the centuries, 'Peace be still' …..

silence

Please grant to us, loving God, the grace of a new beginning and the joy of an enlarged love for you. Give us a passion for all your loving ways. Through Christ Jesus, amen.

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness 4

ONE: We can tell what we have seen and heard of God's glory! Here is the good news: Jesus lives! He is raised! We are forgiven! Go, share the vision! Tell of God's love! In this God is well pleased!

ALL:  Thanks be to God!

ALL:  Thanks be to God!

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 4:12-16

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Anthem    “Jesus, Priceless Treasure”     J.S. Bach

Sermon  "It's Not What You Expect" Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 187     Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us

Invitation to the Offering

As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with all that God gives. We are so blessed here at Bethany, to have had such faithful, generous giving throughout such difficult times.  We have been able to continue the work and ministries that we are a part of.  Since we are here in person now, we have a basket here on the table again to receive your offerings now, or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory    "Thy Word"     Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith

Prayer of Dedication

Holy One, whose heart abounds with gifts, receive this offering as a sign of our intention to live surrounded by your mercy, inspired by your Spirit, open to the joy of your presence, hospitable to one another, and generous toward your world. In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.   Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

Prayers of the People

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 307  God of Grace and God of Glory

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude   "Everlasting God"     Brenton Brown and Ken Riley

1 Christine Longhurst

2 Kir-shalom website

3 Very Rev. John Christie

4“God of Awe and Glory,” Rev. Dr. Renee C. Jackson

Chimes

Opening Prayer 1

Generous God, you are the source of all life, creating and sustaining every living thing. You are the source of all food, material and spiritual, nourishing us in both body and soul. You are the light that goes before us, shining into the darkness. May we be filled with your breath, nourished by your food, renewed by your living water, and sustained by your love. Amen.

Welcome

Introit    

Call to Worship 2

ONE: We come here today not because we are clever but because God welcomes the slow learners.

ALL: We come here not because we are wise, but because God loves us in spite of our folly.

ONE: We come knowing that the greatest persons will be found among those who humbly serve like Jesus did, and that the brightest ideas and the deepest truth will come from those who see themselves as little children in Christ's school.

ALL: O Lord, open up our mind and our hearts and enable our lives to declare your praise.  Let us worship God!

Hymn 403     Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty

Prayer of Confession 3

ONE: We do not pray in order to alleviate our guilt, but to express our gratitude to God. For we know all the things we have said and done that we shouldn't, and all those words we could have spoken, all those actions we could have undertaken, but did not. Despite such lives, God still loves us, surrounding us with mercy and hope, waiting to restore us to new life. Please join me, as we pray together saying,

ALL: Creation's Heart, we look around and see how we fall short in our attempts at faithfulness. We often do things, not because it is what you call us to do, but in hopes of earning points with you. We can become so self-absorbed, we cannot see the suffering and struggles of friends, family, strangers.  We are so desperate to get to the front of the line, we push aside the very ones you seek to honor. Forgive us, Holy One. Remind us that the cup we are offered overflows with grace, that the waters of baptism cleanse and make us new, and that Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, is the One who calls us to service, standing by our side, as we seek to be faithful disciples.

ONE: Hear us as we offer prayers from our own hearts, silently now.

silence

ONE: Amen.

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness

ONE: The One who poured the foundations of creation fills us with grace and hope. The One who numbered the clouds, tips over rain barrels of living water into our parched souls.

ALL: Thanks be to God, we are forgiven. Amen.

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Anthem    ”The Only Son from Heaven”     J.S. Bach

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 5:1-10

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Sermon  Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 3     Womb of Life and Source of Being

Invitation to the Offering

As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with all that God gives. We are so blessed here at Bethany, to have had such faithful, generous giving throughout such difficult times.  We have been able to continue the work and ministries that we are a part of.  Since we are here in person now, we have a basket here on the table again to receive your offerings now, or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory    "Thy Word"     Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith

Prayer of Dedication

May our gifts lay a foundation of hope for all in despair; may they brighten the shadows of those who wander alone; may they cause the voiceless to join the morning stars in singing your praises. (this much written by Thom M. Shuman.)  In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.   Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

Prayers of the People

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 547  Go, My Children, with My Blessing

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude   “The Light of God's Love”     Mark Burrows

1 originally posted on the Monthly Prayers page

2 Bruce Prewer

Chimes

Opening Prayer 1

Come to this sanctuary, this house, this home, Holy Christ, and let us receive you with lavish welcome. You are the Restorer of our fortunes, the Promise of new life – we pour out our praise to you. Fill this room with your Spirit: The sound of wind, the warmth of flame, the scent of perfume and fill our hearts with your compassion, not just in this time and place, but in all times and in all places, so that as we celebrate the great things you have done for us, we may also embody the love you give to all. Amen.

Welcome

Introit    “Come, Thou Fount”     Anon., Arranged by Robert Thygerson

Call to Worship 2

ONE:  Let us begin this day by rejoicing!

ALL:  The Lord has done such wonderful things for us.  Let us be glad!

ONE:  The day before us is uncertain.  We know not what we will encounter on our way.

ALL:  Wherever we go, we go forth as people of the living God, and we go forth to touch the lives of all with God's healing touch.  Let us begin this day with rejoicing!  Let us worship God!

Hymn 391     This Is the Day

Prayer of Confession 3

ALL: Merciful God, our thoughts and deeds too often do not reflect the grace you show us. Our speech and actions too often do not proclaim your salvation. Forgive us, Lord, for the sins that we bear both as individuals and as your Church. Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on us. Our teacher, let us see again! Give us the courage to take heart in your grace. Give us the strength to get up. Give us the wisdom to hear your calling. Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on us.

silence

ALL: Amen.

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness 4

ONE: Take heart, get up; Jesus is calling to us! We trust in the one who has guided the church for two millennia. Through Christ, God forgives us our failings, and continues to call us into a community of mutual love and forgiveness.

ALL: Amen.

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Anthem     “Forever”     Chris Tomlin

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 7:23-28

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Sermon  "Stand In the Gap   Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 260     Alleluia! Sing to Jesus

Invitation to the Offering 5

On our own what we have to give doesn't amount to much in the light of all you have given to us and in the face of so much need. Put together as a congregation, what we offer you here in love becomes more, not simply added together, but somehow multiplied in its usefulness. We ask you to bless our gifts and with the addition of your blessing, just as it was with the loaves and fishes, there is enough for all. Amen.  Since we are here in person now, we have a basket here on the table again to receive your offerings now, or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory     “Be Thou My Vision”     Trad. Irish, Arranged by Robinson

Prayer of Dedication 6

May our gifts lay a foundation of hope for all in despair; may they brighten the shadows of those who wander alone; may they cause the voiceless to join the morning stars in singing your praises.  In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.   Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

Prayers of the People

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 625  O Lord My God

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude     “Less Like Me”     Zach Williams, Hank Bentley, Mia Fieldes

1 United Church of Christ's Worship Ways Archive

2 Starters for Sunday, Church of Scotland

3 Stephen Fearing

4 Rev. Bonnie Tarwater

5 Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand

6 Thom M. Shuman

Morning Reflection

“Oh, Ancient Love, forever gliding through the ages, you continually birth yourself into creation including this present moment of flowing life.  You whisper in this day with similar tenderness, reverberating in the beating heart of existence.”1

Bulletin insert regarding the Reformation

Chimes

Opening Prayer

Reforming God, we give you thanks for your forgiveness and your blessing. We pray for ourselves and your church throughout the world. Fill us with a spirit of openness to your Spirit, to hear and receive your promises and to keep our covenant with you. Where we are corrupt, purify us. Where we are in error, direct us. Where we are in need, provide for us. Where we are divided, reunite us. And where we are close-minded, reform us and make us new. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.2

Welcome

Introit    “Lord Jesus Christ, Be Present Now”    J.S. Bach

Call to Worship

ONE: In a world that cries out, “Fear me!”

ALL: We will listen to Jesus' words, “Don't be afraid!”

ONE: In a world that wants us to hate the other…

ALL: We will live Jesus' call to, “Love God. Love your neighbor, as you love yourself.”

ONE: In a world that radicalizes…

ALL: We, too, will be radical. Radical with our hospitality. Radical with our hope. Radical with our love.

ONE: Then come to this place, ready to be who we are called to be.

ALL: Let us gather together and worship God.3

Hymn 395    Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

Prayer of Confession

O God of mercy, we lament that even good actions of reform and renewal had often unintended negative consequences. We bring before you the burdens of the guilt of the past when our forbears did not follow your will that all be one in the truth of the Gospel. We confess our own ways of thinking and acting that perpetuate the divisions of the past. As communities and as individuals, we build many walls around us: mental, spiritual, physical, political walls that result in discrimination and violence. Forgive us, Lord.

silence

ALL: Amen.

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness

ONE: Christ is the way, the truth and the life. He is our peace, who breaks down the walls that divide, who gives us, through the Holy Spirit, ever-new beginnings. In Christ, we receive forgiveness and reconciliation and we are strengthened for a faithful and common witness in our time.

ALL: Amen.4

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Anthem     “Desert Song”     Brooke Frase

Scripture Readings: Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Romans 3:19-28

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Sermon  "Still More to Do" Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 53     O God, Who Gives Us Life

Invitation to the Offering

Lord Jesus Christ, thank you that you have plans for us that are for our good and your glory. You said, “Give, and it will be given to you; for in the same measure as you give, it will be given to you again.” We give to you today as a response to your goodness to us. May your peace be in our hearts, your grace be in our words, your love be in our hands and your joy be in our souls. Since we are here in person now, we have a basket here on the table again to receive your offerings now, or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory     "Tallis' Canon"     Thomas Tallis, Arr. Heller

Prayer of Dedication

May our gifts lay a foundation of hope for all in despair; may they brighten the shadows of those who wander alone; may they cause the voiceless to join the morning stars in singing your praises. In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.   Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen. 1

Prayers of the People

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 275  A Mighty Fortress is Our God

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude     Toccata in D Minor     Attributed to J.S. Bach

1 Fragments ofYour Ancient Name, Joyce Rupp

2 “Seasons of the Spirit" – Reformation Day

3 Richard Bott

4 Common Prayer: From Conflict to Communion.

Lutheran-Catholic Common Commemoration of the Reformation in 2017

5 Thom M. Shuman

Chimes

Opening Prayer

God of all people, of all times, we are here seeking your presence, in our time of remembrance. We honor those who have gone before us, and at the same time, we come seeking you, O God, who was a constant companion, a source of strength for those we honor. We, too, need your guiding presence as we live our lives; we pray your Spirit will be felt by all who are gathered here this morning.

Welcome

Introit    “Sound of the Saints”     Agee, Jared Anderson, Mosley, Mark Stuart

Call to Worship

ONE: We remember, O God...

ALL: The countless saints of history who have blazed a trail of courage through time.

ONE: We remember, O God...

ALL: The tender touch of loved ones, the example of heroes, the healing words of comforters, the remarkable acts of fearless ones.

ONE: We remember, O God...

ALL: The gentle strength of grandmothers, the loyalty of friends, the kindness of strangers, the joy of children, the sacrifice of parents.

ONE: We remember in every time and place the saints of God who have shown us the Lord.

ALL: Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses... let us worship God with joy!

Hymn 732    Rejoice in God's Saints

Prayer of Confession

When we are called saints the idea jars us, for we are not saintly people. But we are seekers after God's will, those who have been powerfully claimed by Jesus Christ. Remembering who we are intended to be, we come before you, O God, confessing that which separates us from you and others. We come seeking forgiveness, healing and empowerment.

silence

ONE: Amen.

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness

ONE: The good news is that Christ calls us to new life and enables us to begin again and again and again and again. Friends, believe the good news of the gospel.

ALL: In Jesus Christ we are forgiven!  Thanks be to God!

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 9:24-28

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Anthem     “Pié Jesu”     Trad. Latin, Arr. Mary Lynn Lightfoot

Sermon     "Heaven Itself"     Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 787     God Weeps with Us Who Weep and Mourn

Invitation to the Offering

Today along with the offering, we will celebrate the saints who have been a part of our lives, in several ways.  We invite everyone to come forward and light a candle or two in memory of the special people you have been blessed to have in your life, who have died.  If you brought something with you today that reminds you of that person, we invite you to bring that to the table also, so that they may be with us in spirit during our celebration of the Lord's Supper.  Lastly, you are invited to take a bookmark off of the easel, and write the name of someone living, who is a saint to you.    

Please come, and help prepare the table.  

Prayer of Dedication

Gracious God, we offer these gifts in the memory and in celebration of those who have been saints to us.  Help us to remember and honor these saints who have gone on to be with you, O God.  May our gifts lay a foundation of hope for all in despair; may they brighten the shadows of those who wander alone; may they cause the voiceless to join the morning stars in singing your praises. In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.   Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Preparation of the Table

Invitation and Great Prayer of Thanksgiving

LEADER: The Lord be with you

PEOPLE: And also with you

LEADER: Lift up your hearts

PEOPLE: We lift them up to the Lord

LEADER: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

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

LEADER: Let us pray.  Lord, we greet you and give our thanks that you have been at work in our world throughout all time.  You made all things and called them good.  You claimed your people Israel, freed them from the bondage of Egypt, and journeyed with them through the wilderness to the promised land.  You sent prophets to call your people back to you.  Then in the fullness of time you sent your Son Jesus.  He was one of us and lived with us, giving up all his glory for our sake to make us whole.  And yet you raised him up again to overcome the power of death and live a new life. Still we wait for the day when we too will share the fullness of life in him and with him.  And so, O God, come among us.  Show us your presence in this bread and this cup, and make this bread we break and this cup we bless the body and blood of Christ.  By the power of your Holy Spirit, unite us with Christ and all who share this feast, just as you send us out to be his presence in and for your world.  We sing your praise and glory forever.  Amen.

Words of Institution

Sharing of the Cup and Bread

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Holy God, source of all being, you are greater by far than our human thoughts can comprehend.   With all that you have created, you abide; weeping with us in grief and pain, rejoicing with us in life and love.  You are everywhere in this very moment; holding the entirety of living experience

and weaving us together in the great and intricate tapestry of Creation.   Source of life, and breath, and being, breathe into our existence.  Nourished in body by bread and juice, may we strive for the nourishment of all, in body and spirit.  Nourished in spirit by the Body which is within our own, may we strive for the incorporation of all:  may we work to break the barriers that divide us from one another and from you.  In the love that sustains us, and the Spirit that animates us, may we give all thanks and praise to you, O God of all.  Amen.

Prayers of the People

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 326  For All the Saints

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude     “Chariot's Comin!”     Spiritual, Arr. Don Besig

Chimes

Opening Prayer

All-knowing God, we gather together with praise and thanksgiving for who you are, and for all that you have done for us. You know us better than we know ourselves — all our thoughts and actions — and yet you love us. No matter where we go or what we do, your love encircles us—ahead and behind—gently leading and guiding and blessing. We praise you for your love and your faithful presence in our lives. May your Spirit move in our hearts and minds as we worship together—examine our attitudes and actions, lay bare the things we need to confess, challenge us with your Word, and guide us on to paths that lead to life. For we are your people, called by your name. Amen.

Welcome

Introit    “What Wondrous Love Is This”     Trad. American Hymn, Arr. Ben Harlan

Call to Worship

ALL: We gather together to worship, knowing that God is already here among us; knowing that there is nothing that separates us from the presence of our Lord. Wherever we are, wherever we go, God is near.  So let us enter into this service of worship with confidence and hope, knowing that God is already with us, and that God stands eager to meet us and bless us with God's love.  Let us worship God!

Hymn 386    Come, Worship God

Prayer of Confession

PASTOR: Merciful God, we celebrate the way that you chose to bring unity and peace to people—through the gift of your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. He broke down longstanding walls of prejudice and hostility between Jew and Gentile, male and female, slave and free. He abolished rules that restricted life and replaced them with the new commandment to love as he did. Where have we gone astray?  Walls of prejudice still exist and barriers of racism still hold people back from reaching their true potential. We hear the great message of Jesus reconciling people to you, O God, and to one another, and yet we still hesitate to reach out to people when they are different in some way from us.

ALL: Forgive us when we create barriers rather than tear them down.

ONE: Jesus has made us members of the household of God and he holds us together through the power of his Spirit.  Maybe it is because we like to do things the way that we've always done them that creates barriers and excludes strangers, preventing them from ever having the opportunity to experience the reconciling power of Jesus in their lives.  

ALL: Forgive us when we fail to take risks for the gospel's sake.

PASTOR: We remember with gratitude how people shared their faith with us so that we are no longer strangers and aliens.  So we pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to bind us together in love and peace, building us up as a witnessing, welcoming and forgiving community of grace. Here us as we offer prayers from our own hearts, silently now.

silence

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness

ONE: In Jesus you who were once far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” “In him we have been reconciled to God through the cross, made citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.” Hear then, the good news that in Jesus Christ we are forgiven.1

ALL: Thanks be to God!

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Anthem     “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed”   Isaac Watts/Emily Lund

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10:11-25

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Sermon     "Provoke Someone Today!"     Reverend Debra McGuire

Hymn 223     When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

Invitation to the Offering

As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with all that God gives. We are so blessed here at Bethany, to have had such faithful, generous giving throughout such difficult times.  We have been able to continue the work and ministries that we are a part of.  We have a basket here on the table to receive your offerings now or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory     "For I am Convinced"     Joel Weldon

Prayer of Dedication

Lord, we recognize the variety of gifts that we are able to give to you through our work at Bethany.  We thank you for being able to be a part of your work in the world through our gifts.  We celebrate all this with you, seeking the touch of your Spirit so that we will share more deeply what we are and have with all our brothers and sisters in our city and our world.  In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.  Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

Prayers of the People

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 361  O Christ, the Great Foundation

Announcements

Pastoral Blessing

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude     "How Great is Our God”     Chris Tomlin

1 Moira Laidlaw

Chimes

Opening Prayer

God, Lord of the poor, your Son Jesus was born among us poor, humble and dependent. Open our eyes and our hearts and our hands to honor him now as our Lord and King by welcoming him in those who are hungry and thirsty, in all who are abandoned and lonely, in refugees, in the poor and the sick. Let our love become free and spontaneous, like the tenderness you have shown us in your Son. Welcome us in the everlasting Kingdom prepared for us through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.1

Welcome

Introit     "Softly Silent"     Craig Bray

Call to Worship

ALL: We gather together to worship, knowing that God is already here among us; knowing that there is nothing that separates us from the presence of our Lord. Wherever we are, wherever we go, God is near.  So let us enter into this service of worship with confidence and hope, knowing that God is already with us, and that God stands eager to meet us and bless us with God's love.  Let us worship God!

Hymn 757    Today We Are Called to Be Disciples

Prayer of Confession

ALL: We stock the food pantries, but brush aside those who hunger for friendship. We give our hand-me-downs away, but overlook those whose hopes have been stripped away. We glad-hand those just like us, but turn a deaf ear to our neighbors who 'talk funny.' Forgive us, Hope of the ages. You persistently search for us in the side streets of the world, gathering us up and bringing us home, so we may be drenched in the waters of your bottomless pool of forgiveness, watched over by your Child, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

silence

Response Hymn 812

O save me, God, and hear my cry: my prayer to you ascends.

And vindicate me by your might; on you my hope depends.

Assurance of Forgiveness

ONE: God searches for the lost,

ALL: and finds us;

ONE: God invites the hungry to the table,

ALL: and feeds us;

ONE: God sends Jesus,

ALL: and frees us from death's prison;

ONE: God forgives all who sin,

ALL: and heals us with mercy and grace. Thanks be to God. Amen. 2

Sharing the Peace

ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.

RESPONSE:  And also with you.

Response Hymn 798

All with joyful exultation let us sing to God our praise;

To the rock of our salvation loud hosannas raise.

Anthem     "Build Your Kingdom Here"     Llewellyn, Gilkeson, Herron

Scripture Reading: Galatians 3:23-29

                                   Matthew 25:31-46

ONE: This is the word of the Lord.

RESPONSE:  Thanks be to God.

Sermon     Peter Stiehler

Hymn 320     The Church of Christ in Every Age

Invitation to the Offering

As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with all that God gives. We are so blessed here at Bethany, to have had such faithful, generous giving throughout such difficult times.  We have been able to continue the work and ministries that we are a part of.  We have a basket here on the table to receive your offerings now or later this morning, and you are more than welcome to continue sending your offerings through the mail.  We want to recognize all of the offerings of time and energy and talent and money that are such an important part of being the Church. Let us receive this morning's offering.

Offertory     “When the Lord Redeems the Very Least”     Alfred Brumley & Sylvia Dunstan

Prayer of Dedication

Lord, we recognize the variety of gifts that we are able to give to you through our work at Bethany.  We thank you for being able to be a part of your work in the world through our gifts.  We celebrate all this with you, seeking the touch of your Spirit so that we will share more deeply what we are and have with all our brothers and sisters in our city and our world.  In faith and gratitude we offer common things made miracles by your grace.  Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory.  Amen.

Prayers of the People

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 766  The Church of Christ Cannot Be Bound

Announcements

Closing Charge

Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Postlude     “We Are Called”     Arr. Mark Hayes

1 Liturgies Alive, Models of Celebration

2 Thom Shuman