Sunday Worship Bulletin and Lent, Jan 26, 2023

Veradale United Church of Christ

An Open & Affirming Congregation

Worshiping God in Christ – Welcoming All – Working for Justice & Peace

“No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!”

February 26, 2023 • 10:30 a.m.

___________________________________________________________

10:20 Gathering and Prelude

Wayne Shull, Music Director

Charlie Salt, AV

Joe McSwain, Usher and Scripture Reader

Jerry Brines, Usher

Scotty Patton, Zoom Monitor

Rev. Gen Heywood, Pastor

10:30am Worship begins

God is with us…all the time!

All the time...God is with us!

Call to Confession

One: We are made of stardust and to dust we shall return. Let us return our lives to God, the maker of the stars, the planets, and every living creature and know the freedom of living the way of Jesus.

Prayer of Confession

Maker of All, we are yours. Hold us in that love as you reveal to us the ways we have fallen short of our potential as your children. Heal the brokenness within us. Heal the brokenness we have caused. Grant to us hearts ready to make the change and become new through the power of forgiveness, the freedom of repentance, and the joy of transformation. We ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Welcoming the light of Christ

Placing rocks that symbolize the burdens we carry.

Hymn: “Glory, Glory, Halleujah” 2(NCH)

Glory, glory, hallelujah! since I laid my burdens down. (Repeat)

I feel better, so much better, since I laid my burdens down! (Repeat)

Feel like shoutin' hallelujah! since I laid my burdens down! (Repeat)

I am dancing Miriam’s dance now, since I laid my burdens down. (Repeat)

I am climbing Jacob’s ladder, since I laid my burdens down!(Repeat)

Every round goes higher, higher, since I laid my burdens down!(Repeat)

Assurance

One: God forgives us.

All: O Majesty, O Magnificence, O Mystery, come!

Be the hammer, and break our indifference.

Be the sun, and splinter our shadows.

Be the wind, and scatter our despair.

Yea, in the dry country of our souls, let thy grace rain;

so that we take root in thee, and grow.

Make us trees strong in all seasons, bearing fruit,

giving shade to all the weariness

and shelter to them that are lost.

So we pray to the glory of Jesus Christ

who made the cross tree green and flourishing forever.

Amen.

(Arnold Kenseth, USA)

Response

Hymn: “Grace Alone” v1

Every promise we can make, every prayer and step pf faith, ev’ry difference we can make is only by His grace. Every mountain we will climb, every ray of hope we shine, every blessing left behind is only by His grace.

Grace alone which God supplies strength unknown He will provide; Christ in us, our Cornerstone, we will go forth in grace alone.

Community Prayer

Spoken Prayers of gratitude

Spoken Prayers of concern

Silent Prayer

Lord’s Prayer

Response “Grace Alone” v1

CCLI license #11038266

Every promise we can make, every prayer and step of faith, every difference we can make is only by God’s grace. Every mountain we will climb, every ray of hope we shine, every blessing left behind is only by God’s grace.

Grace alone which God supplies strength unknown God will provide; Christ in us, our Cornerstone, we will go forth in grace alone.

A Time of Offering

An Invitation to Share

Sacred Conversations about Racism and Bigotry of all Kinds:

Lillian McGaugh

Dedication Hymn: “Holy Ground”

CCLI license #11038266

We are standing on holy ground, and I know that there are angels all around. Let us praise Jesus now. We are standing in his presence on holy ground.

Dedication Prayer

Loving God, we ask a blessing on our gifts for Hope House and for our church. With your Spirit’s help, may we live as servants of your vision and people of Christ’s way. We ask in the name of Jesus. Amen

Listening for God

Time with Young Hearts

Did you ever invent something silly?

Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7

15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You may freely eat of every tree of the garden, 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall die.”

(And)

Now the serpent was more crafty than any other wild animal that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God say, ‘You shall not eat from any tree in the garden’?” 2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, 3 but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the garden, nor shall you touch it, or you shall die.’ ” 4 But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not die, 5 for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God,[a] knowing good and evil.” 6 So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food and that it was a delight to the eyes and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate.7 Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked, and they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves.

Message “Silly Clothes”

Silence

Announcements No Bible Study this week Choir Wednesday at 6:30pm Sign-up Clip Boards in the back of the sanctuary

We take God’s Light into the World

Hymn: “My Faith it is an Oaken Staff” 418 (NCH)

Public Domain

1 My faith, it is an oaken staff, the trav'ler’s well-loved aid; My faith, it is a song of trust, sustains me undismayed.I’ll travel on, and still be stirred by silent thought or social word; By all my perils undeterred, a pilgrim unafraid.

2 My guide is Jesus Christ whose steps, when travelers have trod, whether beneath was flinty rock or yielding grassy sod, they cared on their joy unspent, through pain and trial they onward went, unstayed by pleasures, still they bent their zealous course to God.

3 My faith, it is an oaken staff, O let me on it lean! My faith, provides the ground of hope, supports a purpose keen! Your Spirit, God, upon me send, That I may be what you intend. With patient courage, we’ll contend as radiant saints serene.

Benediction

Postlude and Silent Reflection

Sunday Worship Bulletin, Feb 19 2023

Veradale United Church of Christ

An Open & Affirming Congregation

Worshiping God in Christ – Welcoming All –

Working for Justice & Peace

“No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!”

February 19, 2023 • 10:30 a.m.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

10:20am Gathering and Prelude

Wayne Shull, Music Director

Charlie Salt, AV

Joe McSwain, AV and Usher

Jerry Brines, Usher

Naomi Hanvey, Zoom App Assistance

Scotty Patton, Zoom Monitor

Maureen Carroll, Scripture Reader

Sue Ferrozzo, Candle Lighter and Fellowship Set-Up

Marilyn Closson, Fellowship Clean-up

Rev. Genavieve Heywood, Pastor

10:30am Worship begins

God is with us... all the time!

All the time . . . God is with us!

*Welcoming the Light of Christ

*Hymn:” We Have Come at Christ’s Own Bidding” 182 (NCH)

We have come at Christ’s own bidding to this high and holy place, where we wait with hope and longing for some token of God’s grace. Here we pray for new assurance that our faith is not in vain, searching like those first disciples for a sign both clear and plain.

Light breaks through our clouds and shadows, splendor bathes the flesh-joined Word. Moses and Elijah marvel as the heavenly voice is heard. Eyes and hearts behold with wonder how the Law and Prophets meet. Christ with garments drenched in brightness, stands transfigured and complete.

Strengthened by this glimpse of glory, fearful lest our faith decline. We like Peter, find it tempting to remain and build a shrine. But true worship gives us courage to proclaim what we profess, that our daily lives may prove us people of the God we bless.

About Our Sacred Conversations about Racism

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Racism (highlighted words link to definitions)

a belief that race is a fundamental determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race

behavior or attitudes that reflect and foster this belief : racial discrimination or prejudice

the systemic oppression of a racial group to the social, economic, and political advantage of another

a political or social system founded on racism and designed to execute its principles

Community Prayer

Spoken Gratitude

Spoken Concerns

Silent Prayer

Lord’s Prayer

Response: “Awake! Awake and Greet the New Morn”

107(NCH) v.4

Rejoice, rejoice, take heart in the night, though cold the winter and cheerless, the rising sun shall crown you with light, be strong and loving and fearless. Love be our song and love our prayer, and love, our endless story, may God fill every day we share, and bring us at last into glory.

A Time of Offering

An Invitation to Share

Sacred Conversations about Racism: Jerry Brines and

Marilyn Closson

*Offering Acclamation:

Response: “Awake, Awake to Love and Work” 89 (NCH) v.2

Come, let your voice be one with theirs, shout with their shout of praise. See how the giant sun soars up, God’s gift for all your days! So, let the love of Jesus come and set your soul ablaze.

*Dedication Prayer

Holy One, bless the gifts of our time, talent, and treasure. May we be a witness to your presence in all the places we live. Bless our little congregation. May our gathering on Zoom and in-person grow in fellowship and compassion. Amen

Listening for God

Time with Young Hearts: Where is your happiest place?

Matthew 17:1-9 New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

17 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became bright as light. 3 Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will set up three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” 8 And when they raised their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.

9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

Message: Can We Stay?

Silent Reflection

Announcements

Church Council meets after worship

Bible Study Monday at 7pm at John and Maureen’s home.

Signups for Sacred Conversations about Racism

Our Light moves into the World God Loves

* Hymn: “Sent Forth by God’s Blessing” 76 (NCH)

Sent forth by God’s blessing, our true faith confessing, the people of God from this dwelling take leave. The service is ended, O now be extended the fruits of our worship in all who believe.

The seed of the teaching, receptive hearts reaching, shall blossom in action for God and for all. God’s grace did invite us, and love shall unite us to work for God’s realm and to answer the call.

With praise and thanksgiving to God ever living, the tasks of our everyday life we will face. Our faith ever sharing, in love ever caring, embracing God’s children of each tribe and race.

With your grace you feed us, with your light now lead us, united us as one in this life that we share. Then may all the living with praise and thanksgiving give honor to Christ and that name which we bear.

*Benediction

Silent Meditation and Postlude

Sunday Worship Bulletin Feb 12, 2023

Veradale United Church of Christ

An Open & Affirming Congregation

Worshiping God in Christ – Welcoming All – Working for Justice & Peace

“No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!”

February 12, 2023 • 10:30 a.m.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

10:20am Gathering and Prelude

Wayne Shull, Music Director

Charlie Salt, AV

Joe McSwain, AV and Usher

Jerry Brines, Usher

Naomi Hanvey, Zoom App Assistance

Scotty Patton, Zoom Monitor

Jan Young, Scripture Reader

Sue Ferrozzo, Candle Lighter and Fellowship Set-Up

Marilyn Closson, Fellowship Clean-up

Rev. Genavieve Heywood, Pastor

10:30am Worship begins

God listens... all the time!

All the time . . . God listens!

*Welcoming the Light of Christ

* Hymn “Come, Let Us Join with Faithful Souls” 383 (NCH)

Public Domain

1 Come, let us join with faithful souls

Our song of faith to raise;

One family in heart are we,

And One the God we praise.

2 Faithful are all who love the truth

And perfect truth proclaim,

Who steadfast stand at God’s right hand

And glorify God’s name.

3 And faithful are the gentle hearts

To whom the pow'r is giv'n

Of ev'ry hearth to make a home,

Of ev'ry home a heav'n.

4 O God of hosts, our faith renew,

And grant us, in your grace,

To join the songs sung by the saints

In every time and place.

About Our Sacred Conversations about Racism

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Racism (highlighted words link to definitions)

a belief that race is a fundamental determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race

behavior or attitudes that reflect and foster this belief : racial discrimination or prejudice

the systemic oppression of a racial group to the social, economic, and political advantage of another

a political or social system founded on racism and designed to execute its principles

Community Prayer

Spoken Gratitude

Spoken Concerns

Silent Prayer

Lord’s Prayer

Response: “Awake! Awake and Greet the New Morn”

107(NCH) v.4

Rejoice, rejoice, take heart in the night, though cold the winter and cheerless, the rising sun shall crown you with light, be strong and loving and fearless. Love be our song and love our prayer, and love, our endless story, may God fill every day we share, and bring us at last into glory.

A Time of Offering

An Invitation to Share

An Offering of Hope: Leona Flowers, Hope House, Spokane

Sacred Conversations about Racism: Sam Mumford

*Offering Acclamation:

Response: “Awake, Awake to Love and Work” 89 (NCH) v.2

Come, let your voice be one with theirs, shout with their shout of praise. See how the giant sun soars up, God’s gift for all your days! So, let the love of Jesus come and set your soul ablaze.

*Dedication Prayer

Radiant God, bless us and our offerings that this little community may be found pleasing in your sight. Pour out your Spirit and strengthen us as we practice the way of Jesus. Amen

Listening for God

1 Corinthians 3:1-9 The Message translation

1-4 But for right now, friends, I’m completely frustrated by your unspiritual dealings with each other and with God. You’re acting like infants in relation to Christ, capable of nothing much more than nursing at the breast. Well, then, I’ll nurse you since you don’t seem capable of anything more. As long as you grab for what makes you feel good or makes you look important, are you really much different than a babe at the breast, content only when everything’s going your way? When one of you says, “I’m on Paul’s side,” and another says, “I’m for Apollos,” aren’t you being totally infantile?

5-9 Who do you think Paul is, anyway? Or Apollos, for that matter? Servants, both of us—servants who waited on you as you gradually learned to entrust your lives to our mutual Master. We each carried out our servant assignment. I planted the seed, Apollos watered the plants, but God made you grow. It’s not the one who plants or the one who waters who is at the center of this process but God, who makes things grow. Planting and watering are menial servant jobs at minimum wages. What makes them worth doing is the God we are serving. You happen to be God’s field in which we are working.

Matthew 5:21-37 The Message translation

21-22 “You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell ‘stupid!’ at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill.

23-24 “This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God.

25-26 “Or say you’re out on the street and an old enemy accosts you. Don’t lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right with him. After all, if you leave the first move to him, knowing his track record, you’re likely to end up in court, maybe even jail. If that happens, you won’t get out without a stiff fine.

27-28 “You know the next commandment pretty well, too: ‘Don’t go to bed with another’s spouse.’ But don’t think you’ve preserved your virtue simply by staying out of bed. Your heart can be corrupted by lust even quicker than your body. Those leering looks you think nobody notices—they also corrupt.

29-30 “Let’s not pretend this is easier than it really is. If you want to live a morally pure life, here’s what you have to do: You have to blind your right eye the moment you catch it in a lustful leer. You have to choose to live one-eyed or else be dumped on a moral trash pile. And you have to chop off your right hand the moment you notice it raised threateningly. Better a bloody stump than your entire being discarded for good in the dump.

31-32 “Remember the Scripture that says, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him do it legally, giving her divorce papers and her legal rights’? Too many of you are using that as a cover for selfishness and whim, pretending to be righteous just because you are ‘legal.’ Please, no more pretending. If you divorce your wife, you’re responsible for making her an adulteress (unless she has already made herself that by sexual promiscuity). And if you marry such a divorced adulteress, you’re automatically an adulterer yourself. You can’t use legal cover to mask a moral failure.

33-37 “And don’t say anything you don’t mean. This counsel is embedded deep in our traditions. You only make things worse when you lay down a smoke screen of pious talk, saying, ‘I’ll pray for you,’ and never doing it, or saying, ‘God be with you,’ and not meaning it. You don’t make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace. In making your speech sound more religious, it becomes less true. Just say ‘yes’ and ‘no.’ When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong.

Message: Word Power

Silent Reflection

Announcements

Bible Study Monday at 7pm at Wayne and Charlie’s homne.

Signups for Sacred Conversations about Racism

Our Light moves into the World God Loves

* Hymn: “Be Now My Vision” 451(NCH)

Public Domain

Be now my vision, O God of my heart; nothing surpasses the love you impart - you my best thought, by day or by night, waking or sleeping, your presence my light.

Be now my wisdom, and be my true word; ever within me, my soul is assured; Mother and Father, you are both to me, now and forever, your child I will be.

Riches I need not, nor life’s empty praise, you, my inheritance, now and always. You and you only are first in my heart, great God, my treasure, may we never part.

Sovereign of Heaven, my victory won, may I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s sun! Heart of my own heart, whatever befall, still be my vision, O Ruler of All.

*Benediction

Silent Meditation and Postlude