Welcome to worship through First United Church!
There are so many ways to come close to the holy! We hope you make time regularly to refresh your spirit, learn some and commit some to being some of the visible presence of love in this world!
You can join us in the sanctuary in person each week or catch up with us on-line anytime. Worship is at 10:30 am, Sunday in person and live-streamed to Facebook and You-Tube. There are also a number of services and Godly Play stories already on line for you to check out.
Thank you for making time to nurture your spirit and add to the goodness in Creation!
You can read over the print version for upcoming Sunday service below.
If you’re going to be traveling and want to check out other United Churches …
The United Church of Canada offers a map of all the UCC congregations across Canada who are on-line.
Thank you for worshiping with us. If you’d like to know more about First United, you can call our office at 780-352-2157; check us out on Facebook at First United, Wetaskiwin or on this web page. Worship and Godly Play videos can also be found on our You-Tube channel (firstunitedwetaskiwin).
First United Church is a registered charitable organization. This ministry is made possible by the generous donations of people like you! Tax receipts are issued for all contributions to this ministry. Find out more on “Contact Us – Donate”
First United Church is a registered charitable organization. This ministry is made possible by the generous donations of people like you! Tax receipts are issued for all contributions to this ministry. Find out more on “Contact Us – Donate”
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – 10:30 am, April 28th, 2024
God calls us to create a community of faith where all are welcome and encouraged to participate fully: no matter where you’re from, when you were born, however you self-identify, whom you love,
God calls us to create a community of faith where all are welcome and encouraged to participate fully: no matter where you’re from, when you were born, however you self-identify, whom you love,
or what you believe.
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST
This service will be live-streamed to both Facebook and You-Tube beginning with announcements at 10:20 am and worship at 10:30 am, Sunday, April 28th. Links will be provided below and should be active by 1 pm, Sunday. You may want to have a lego brick or few for the prayers and something to treat yourself for “awards” as we celebrate Camping Sunday.
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath, & make space for the Spirit.
GATHERING MUSIC #166 Voices United “Joy Comes with the Dawn” vs 3
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
We will rejoice, we will rejoice and give praise to the one who brings us grace. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
Creator God …. You feed my soul.
With all the friends who gather in our circle, You feed my soul.
With all the creatures that move upon the earth, through the waters or air, You feed my soul.
With the wind and the rain You feed my soul.
With all the stars in the sky, You feed my soul.
With the bread from Your table, You feed my soul.
And we grow strong, in heart, and mind and Spirit,
That we might share Your feast with others.
Creator God …. You feed my soul.
With all the friends who gather in our circle, You feed my soul.
With all the creatures that move upon the earth, through the waters or air, You feed my soul.
With the wind and the rain You feed my soul.
With all the stars in the sky, You feed my soul.
With the bread from Your table, You feed my soul.
And we grow strong, in heart, and mind and Spirit,
That we might share Your feast with others.
PRAYER FOR RECONCILIATION Maker, Mender, Minder of all that is, You surround us with beauty and call us to faithful stewardship of Your creation. We have not always walked lightly on this earth. When we consume more than we share, when we throw away more than we need, when we exclude others from Your abundance forgive us. Grant us courage to make the changes necessary to ensure future generations may also enjoy this planet we call home. Thank You for safe spaces to grow and learn, to be still and listen, to explore new ways of being. Travel with our young people as they seek to discern Your will in their lives. Amen.
HYMN #92 More Voices “Like a Rock” [x 3]
Like a rock, like a rock, God is under our feet.
Like a starry night sky, God is over our head.
Like the sun on the horizon, God is ever before.
Like a river runs to ocean, our home is in God evermore.
Like a rock, like a rock, God is under our feet.
Like a starry night sky, God is over our head.
Like the sun on the horizon, God is ever before.
Like a river runs to ocean, our home is in God evermore.
GRATITUDES Presentation of Quilts
~ Quinn Brecka, Craig Johnson, Grace Pilling, Spencer Waterhouse
~ Quinn Brecka, Craig Johnson, Grace Pilling, Spencer Waterhouse
SCRIPTURE READING Psalm 23 p. 747 VU with Refrain
HYMN #357 Voices United “Tell Me the Stories of Jesus” verses 1 – 3, 5
Tell me the stories of Jesus I love to hear, Things I would ask him to tell me if he were here;
scenes by the wayside, tales of the sea, stories of Jesus, tell them to me.
Tell me the stories of Jesus I love to hear, Things I would ask him to tell me if he were here;
scenes by the wayside, tales of the sea, stories of Jesus, tell them to me.
First let me hear how the children, stood round his knee,
and I shall fancy his blessing resting on me;
and I shall fancy his blessing resting on me;
Words full of kindness, deeds full of grace, all in the lovelight of Jesus’ face.
Tell me, in accents of wonder, how rolled the sea, tossing the boat in a tempest on Galilee!
And how the Master, ready and kind, chided the billows and hushed the wind.
And how the Master, ready and kind, chided the billows and hushed the wind.
Show me that scene in the garden of bitter pain;
and of the cross where my Saviour for me was slain.
Sad ones or brights ones, so that they be stories of Jesus, tell them to me.
and of the cross where my Saviour for me was slain.
Sad ones or brights ones, so that they be stories of Jesus, tell them to me.
GOOD NEWS Knowing Jesus in Making him Known
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE [You may want to have a lego brick handy, or use your imagination!]
Please hold your brick prayerfully
Pray for yourself. Thank God for the things you’ve been given. Ask God’s blessing for your self and guidance to be a blessing to others.
Please hold your brick prayerfully
Pray for yourself. Thank God for the things you’ve been given. Ask God’s blessing for your self and guidance to be a blessing to others.
Count the bumps on your brick.
For each bump on your brick, pray for a different person or situation in the world.
For each bump on your brick, pray for a different person or situation in the world.
Ask God’s peace on them this week. Sung Response #76 AGCS “Kum ba yah” chorus
Find someone who has a different colour brick to you. Find something that is different about each of you.
Thank God for making each person special. Thank God for the things that are different but special about other people. Pray that we will learn how to celebrate and understand people who are different to us. Sung Response #76 AGCS “Someone’s praying Lord, Kum ba yah”
Thank God for making each person special. Thank God for the things that are different but special about other people. Pray that we will learn how to celebrate and understand people who are different to us. Sung Response #76 AGCS “Someone’s praying Lord, Kum ba yah”
Find someone with the same number of bumps on their brick as you. Find something that you have in common.
Thank God for all the people who care for us. Pray that God will help us to be friends to those who are lonely. Sung Response #76 AGCS “Kum ba yah” chorus
Thank God for all the people who care for us. Pray that God will help us to be friends to those who are lonely. Sung Response #76 AGCS “Kum ba yah” chorus
Bring all the bricks together and until they’re all connected.
We thank you God for the church and the communities in which we live. Help us to make room for others, to live with respect in creation. May we value the goodness and greatness of your good earth and its creatures in our choices and our living. Thank you for not giving up on us when we don’t notice, are too busy to listen, think we know best. Thank you for the people who remind us of your presence. Today we are especially grateful for the children and young people in our midst. We give thanks for the honesty, the persistence, the vulnerability, the wonder, the questions, for all that children are, and all that which they call forth from us. Help us to set aside that which keeps us from being fully alive and faithfully in your service. God, we turn to you.
Sung Response #76 AGCS “Someone’s singing, Lord, Kum ba yah”
We thank you God for the church and the communities in which we live. Help us to make room for others, to live with respect in creation. May we value the goodness and greatness of your good earth and its creatures in our choices and our living. Thank you for not giving up on us when we don’t notice, are too busy to listen, think we know best. Thank you for the people who remind us of your presence. Today we are especially grateful for the children and young people in our midst. We give thanks for the honesty, the persistence, the vulnerability, the wonder, the questions, for all that children are, and all that which they call forth from us. Help us to set aside that which keeps us from being fully alive and faithfully in your service. God, we turn to you.
Sung Response #76 AGCS “Someone’s singing, Lord, Kum ba yah”
In the name of the Good Shepherd who calls us each by name, we pray. Singing The Lord’s Prayer
THE LORD’S PRAYER #959 Voices United
YOUR GENEROSITY MATTERS “Camp Should Happen all Year”
GRATITUDE AWARDS
ANTHEM “It Only Takes a Spark” [please join in on the last verse]
I wish for you my friend this happiness that I’ve found – On God you can depend,
It matters not where you’re bound; I’ll shout it from the mountain top;
I want my world to know: the Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.
I wish for you my friend this happiness that I’ve found – On God you can depend,
It matters not where you’re bound; I’ll shout it from the mountain top;
I want my world to know: the Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the Light of Easter goes with you.
VESPERS “Day is Done” and “The Mizpah Benediction”
Day is done, gone the sun from the lake, from the hills, from the sky all is well, safely rest, God is nigh!
May the Lord watch, between me and you, While we are absent, one from the other. Amen.
Day is done, gone the sun from the lake, from the hills, from the sky all is well, safely rest, God is nigh!
May the Lord watch, between me and you, While we are absent, one from the other. Amen.
GRACE Tune to the “Adams Family”
SENDING FORTH
You are the children of a loving God!
You are the children of a loving God!
We know what we must do.
Live love with every breath.
Live love with every breath.
Speak peace to every fear.
Work with compassion and commitment.
Work with compassion and commitment.
Prepare a way for others.
May you know peace whatever path you follow; May you find joy in the feasts you share.
May the Spirit be your guide, into goodness and mercy, all the days of your life.
May you know peace whatever path you follow; May you find joy in the feasts you share.
May the Spirit be your guide, into goodness and mercy, all the days of your life.
Hallelujah and Amen!
ON THE WAY #209 More Voices “Go Make a Difference” verse 1
Refrain Go make a diff’rence. We can make a diff’rence. Go make a diff’rence in the world. (Repeat)
We are the salt of the earth, called to let the people see
The love of God for you and me.
We are the light of the world, not to be hidden but be seen.
Go make a diff’rence in the world. Refrain
The love of God for you and me.
We are the light of the world, not to be hidden but be seen.
Go make a diff’rence in the world. Refrain
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – 10:30 am, April 21st, 2024
God calls us to create a community of faith where all are welcome and encouraged to participate fully: no matter where you’re from, when you were born, however you self-identify, whom you love,
God calls us to create a community of faith where all are welcome and encouraged to participate fully: no matter where you’re from, when you were born, however you self-identify, whom you love,
or what you believe.
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST
This service was live-streamed to both Facebook and You-Tube at 10:30 am, April 21st. Links are provided below and active by 1 pm, Sunday.
Facebook https://fb.watch/rB36AXRuME/
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath, and make space for the Spirit.
GATHERING MUSIC #166 Voices United “Joy Comes with the Dawn” vs 3
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
We will rejoice, we will rejoice and give praise to the one who brings us grace. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
In the stillness of the morning – Christ calls us,
In the stillness of the morning – Christ calls us,
And our lives are changed.
Into relationships of respect and caring – Christ calls us,
Into relationships of respect and caring – Christ calls us,
And our lives are changed.
From fear and sadness – Christ calls us,
From fear and sadness – Christ calls us,
And our lives are changed.
Into this time, on this earth, we are called to service. To let the love of Christ loose in our lives,
And the world is changed.
Into this time, on this earth, we are called to service. To let the love of Christ loose in our lives,
And the world is changed.
OPENING PRAYER [together]
Creator God, draw us into the embrace of Sabbath. We have lost our sense and our senses–our touch, our smell, our vision of who You intend us to be. Call a halt to our self-absorption. Still our wayward consumption. In this time of worship, may we find space to rest, to reconnect, to renew. In drawing close to You, may we humbly take our place in Your vast network of life. Grace us with the wisdom and courage to live with respect with all our relations. Amen.
HYMN #50 All God’s Children Sing “Every Morning Is Easter Morning”
Refrain – Ev’ry morning is Easter morning from now on!
Ev’ry day’s resurrection day, the past is over and gone!
Good-bye guilt, good-bye fear, good riddance! Hello God, hello sun!
I am one of the Easter people! My new life has begun! Refrain
I am one of the Easter people! My new life has begun! Refrain
Daily news is so bad it seems the Good News seldom gets heard.
Get it straight from the Easter People: God’s around! Spread the word! Refrain
Get it straight from the Easter People: God’s around! Spread the word! Refrain
Yesterday I was bored and lonely; but today look and see!
I belong to the Easter People! Life’s exciting to me! Refrain
I belong to the Easter People! Life’s exciting to me! Refrain
DISCOVERY CIRCLE
SCRIPTURE READINGS Psalm 30 p. 757 VU with Refrain, John 21:1 – 17
HYMN #135 More Voices “Called By Earth and Sky” verses 1 – 3
Refrain Called by earth and sky, promise of hope held high. This is our sacred living trust,
Treasure of life, sanctified, called by earth and sky.
Refrain Called by earth and sky, promise of hope held high. This is our sacred living trust,
Treasure of life, sanctified, called by earth and sky.
Precious these waters, endless seas, deep ocean’s dream, waters of healing, rivers of rain,
The wash of love again. Refrain
The wash of love again. Refrain
Precious this gift, the air we breathe; wind born and free.
Breath of the Spirit, blow through this place, our gathering and our grace. Refrain
Breath of the Spirit, blow through this place, our gathering and our grace. Refrain
Precious these mountains, ancient sands; vast fragile land.
Seeds of our wakening, rooted and strong, Creation’s faithful song. Refrain
Seeds of our wakening, rooted and strong, Creation’s faithful song. Refrain
GOOD NEWS
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE Adapted from Kairos – 2020 Prayer for Earth Day used with permission.
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
Maker, Mender and Minder, thank You for signs of spring, melting snow or budding trees, singing robins or flowing streams. Thank You for sharing this earth and its boundless energy with us. Even while we worry and struggle, may we learn from Your creation, the rhythms of rest and growth. We grieve the state of life and loss on the Earth, deteriorating faster than ever before. We confess our selfish actions, taking – using – what we want, not only what we need. Not all of our actions have brought You the honour we wish to bring O Creator, we confess our sins with humble hearts.
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
The Earth cradles us in her sorrow and You, our Source, grieve with her. In the midst of all our faults and blunders, You forgive and love us still. O Creator, we rest in the assurance of Your love. Give us the courage to change our ways that we might live more responsibly, advocate more boldly, honour and protect more tenderly what You have created. O Creator, with your help, we will change our ways,
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
Friend of fishermen and prostitutes, tax collectors and children, you call us into the world, to serve in your name, to fish for people, reminding them and us of your great love. We offer prayers in the silence of our hearts for the many people and any places in our world where love is forgotten, or withheld.
Time for silent prayer
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
Spirit of new life, breathe your peace into our words and actions this week. Where there is sadness, may we offer comfort, where there is despair, may we bring hope, where there is injury, your healing love,
We pray in Jesus’ name, even as we sing a version of the prayer he taught others.
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
Maker, Mender and Minder, thank You for signs of spring, melting snow or budding trees, singing robins or flowing streams. Thank You for sharing this earth and its boundless energy with us. Even while we worry and struggle, may we learn from Your creation, the rhythms of rest and growth. We grieve the state of life and loss on the Earth, deteriorating faster than ever before. We confess our selfish actions, taking – using – what we want, not only what we need. Not all of our actions have brought You the honour we wish to bring O Creator, we confess our sins with humble hearts.
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
The Earth cradles us in her sorrow and You, our Source, grieve with her. In the midst of all our faults and blunders, You forgive and love us still. O Creator, we rest in the assurance of Your love. Give us the courage to change our ways that we might live more responsibly, advocate more boldly, honour and protect more tenderly what You have created. O Creator, with your help, we will change our ways,
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
Friend of fishermen and prostitutes, tax collectors and children, you call us into the world, to serve in your name, to fish for people, reminding them and us of your great love. We offer prayers in the silence of our hearts for the many people and any places in our world where love is forgotten, or withheld.
Time for silent prayer
God of Grace … teach us Your Way.
Spirit of new life, breathe your peace into our words and actions this week. Where there is sadness, may we offer comfort, where there is despair, may we bring hope, where there is injury, your healing love,
We pray in Jesus’ name, even as we sing a version of the prayer he taught others.
THE LORD’S PRAYER #959 Voices United
YOUR GENEROSITY MATTERS “Building & Sharing Community through Art”
HYMN #563 Voices United “Jesus, You Have Come to the Lakeshore” verses 1 – 3
Jesus, You have come to the lakeshore looking neither for wealthy nor wise ones;
You only asked me to follow humbly.
Jesus, You have come to the lakeshore looking neither for wealthy nor wise ones;
You only asked me to follow humbly.
Refrain O Jesus, with your eyes you have searched m, and while smiling, have spoken my name;
Now boat’s left on the shoreline behind me, by your side I will seek other seas.
Now boat’s left on the shoreline behind me, by your side I will seek other seas.
You know so well my possessions; my boat carries no gold and no weapons;
– you will find there my nets and labour. Refrain
– you will find there my nets and labour. Refrain
You need my hands full of caring through my labours to give others rest,
– and constant love that keeps on loving. Refrain
SENDING FORTH
As long as the sun rises, the grass grows, the river flows,
God is with us.
Whatever we have done, however we have loved,
Whatever we have done, however we have loved,
Christ loves us.
Wherever we go, whatever we have to offer,
Wherever we go, whatever we have to offer,
The Spirit goes before us.
May you know peace whatever path you follow; May you find joy in the feasts you share.
May the Spirit be your guide, into goodness and mercy, all the days of your life.
Hallelujah and Amen!
May you know peace whatever path you follow; May you find joy in the feasts you share.
May the Spirit be your guide, into goodness and mercy, all the days of your life.
Hallelujah and Amen!
ON THE WAY #209 More Voices “Go Make a Diff’rence” verse 2
Refrain Go make a diff’rence. We can make a diff’rence. Go make a diff’rence in the world. (Repeat)
Refrain Go make a diff’rence. We can make a diff’rence. Go make a diff’rence in the world. (Repeat)
We are the hands of Christ, reaching out to those in need, the face of God for all to see.
We are the spirit of hope; we are the voice of peace. Go make a diff’rence in the world. Refrain
Strength for the journey!
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – April 14th – 3rd Sunday in Easter
God calls us to create a community of faith where all are welcome and encouraged to participate fully: no matter where you’re from, when you were born, however you self-identify, whom you love,
or what you believe.
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST
This service was live and live-streamed to both Facebook and You-Tube on Sunday, April 14th, beginning at 10:20 pm and worship at 10:30 pm. Links are provided below and should be active by 1 pm on Sunday.
Facebook https://fb.watch/rrQ4J1mLQr/
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath, and make space for the Spirit.
GATHERING MUSIC #166 Voices United “Joy Comes with the Dawn” vs 2
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
Sorrow will turn, sorrow will turn into song, and God’s laughter make us strong. Refrain
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
Sorrow will turn, sorrow will turn into song, and God’s laughter make us strong. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP A guided meditation with breath – use lots of pauses
Find a comfortable space in your pew, feet on the floor, hands open on your lap
Close your eyes…. relax… breathe in…. breathe out….
As you breathe… feel the breeze on your face, let the breeze draw you to your favourite outdoor spot
feel the warmth of sun on your face … notice the smells, pine trees or water, campfires or bbq’s
what do you see as you look around?
Feel again the breeze, … feel it on your face… on your hands… in your hair…
Notice how fresh it is… Let it blow away the dust of your daily routine…
Let it blow away the tension, … the worries… the doubts…
Let it fill you with peace… feel it swell within you to joy… Feel the breeze around you and within you…
It is God’s gift of life to you…. to all creation…. It is God’s spirit come to bless you and to guide you…
Enjoy God’s breath of love… When you are ready to join in worship,
Come back to this space, knowing that wherever you are… God waits to breathe new life into you.
Find a comfortable space in your pew, feet on the floor, hands open on your lap
Close your eyes…. relax… breathe in…. breathe out….
As you breathe… feel the breeze on your face, let the breeze draw you to your favourite outdoor spot
feel the warmth of sun on your face … notice the smells, pine trees or water, campfires or bbq’s
what do you see as you look around?
Feel again the breeze, … feel it on your face… on your hands… in your hair…
Notice how fresh it is… Let it blow away the dust of your daily routine…
Let it blow away the tension, … the worries… the doubts…
Let it fill you with peace… feel it swell within you to joy… Feel the breeze around you and within you…
It is God’s gift of life to you…. to all creation…. It is God’s spirit come to bless you and to guide you…
Enjoy God’s breath of love… When you are ready to join in worship,
Come back to this space, knowing that wherever you are… God waits to breathe new life into you.
OPENING PRAYER [together]
Come to us Spirit of Peace. Breach the hidden places of our soul. Touch our fears with Your hope. Breathe peace into our longing. Gather up our questions and fears, our doubts and belief. Draw us more deeply into the mystery of resurrection discipleship. Send us out to be Your Easter people! In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
Come to us Spirit of Peace. Breach the hidden places of our soul. Touch our fears with Your hope. Breathe peace into our longing. Gather up our questions and fears, our doubts and belief. Draw us more deeply into the mystery of resurrection discipleship. Send us out to be Your Easter people! In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
HYMN #382 Voices United “Breathe on Me, Breath of God” verses 1 – 3
Breathe on me, breath of God, fill me with life anew,
That I may love what thou dost love and do what thou wouldst do.
Breathe on me, breath of God, until my heart is pure,
Until my will is one with thine, to do and to endure.
Until my will is one with thine, to do and to endure.
Breath one me, breath of God, till I am wholly thine,
Until this earthly part of me glows with thy fire divine.
Until this earthly part of me glows with thy fire divine.
DISCOVERY CIRCLE
SCRIPTURE READING Psalm 63 p. 781 VU with Refrain #2, John 20:19 – 31
HYMN #185 Voices United “You Tell Me that the Lord is Risen” verses 1 – 3
You tell me that the Lord is Risen, that you have seen his face.
Then tell me why you crouch in fear and hide within this place.
You say that he spoke words of peace and stood just as before,
But ‘til I touch his very flesh I will not trust your joy.
You tell me that the Lord is Risen, that you have seen his face.
Then tell me why you crouch in fear and hide within this place.
You say that he spoke words of peace and stood just as before,
But ‘til I touch his very flesh I will not trust your joy.
You claim a resurrection here, that God has broken death,
No easy words like these will sooth the pain that tears my breath.
How well do I recall his face, compassion, strength in fear.
How deep my grief that he should die. Spare me your words of cheer.
No easy words like these will sooth the pain that tears my breath.
How well do I recall his face, compassion, strength in fear.
How deep my grief that he should die. Spare me your words of cheer.
“Now peace be with you. Come, my friend, my wounded body see.
Let the rich courage of your doubt bring you to fresh belief.
Fear not to wonder at the Word, to search the depths of grace.
Reach out and atouch, here is my hand. Receive the gift of faith.”
Let the rich courage of your doubt bring you to fresh belief.
Fear not to wonder at the Word, to search the depths of grace.
Reach out and atouch, here is my hand. Receive the gift of faith.”
GOOD NEWS
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
Holy Mystery Your love is stronger than death,
You know the situations of our living, the wounds of our existence. Breathe your peace upon us. Open our hearts to the wonder and beauty of your world, when suffering threatens to overwhelm us. Unlock the closed places in our lives, break through disbelief, help us to recognize You in the scars between our relationships. Thank You God for the gift of peace, the grace of Your presence and the many people who let Your love flow through them.
Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
Help us to touch gently the hurts of this world. We pray for those who are grieving, for the families and friends of those dead, or injured in conflict situations around the world; and the countless missing or displaced. Keep us mindful of the precious gift that is life. We pray for those who wonder and question. Move through the walls of prejudice and fear and history to call forth new life. May faith in love bring us together rather than divide or isolate us.
Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
We pray for the creatures and this good earth which sustains us all. May we question the politics and economics that pollute our waters, air and landfills. Remind us there is always more to life than our limited vision offers. Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
Holy Mystery, You are always with us, and we are thankful that You do not leave us alone, to wait in fear. Send us out this day to be Your hands and Your heart, people of faith. We pray in Jesus’ name, who taught his friends to pray together singing…
Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
Holy Mystery Your love is stronger than death,
You know the situations of our living, the wounds of our existence. Breathe your peace upon us. Open our hearts to the wonder and beauty of your world, when suffering threatens to overwhelm us. Unlock the closed places in our lives, break through disbelief, help us to recognize You in the scars between our relationships. Thank You God for the gift of peace, the grace of Your presence and the many people who let Your love flow through them.
Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
Help us to touch gently the hurts of this world. We pray for those who are grieving, for the families and friends of those dead, or injured in conflict situations around the world; and the countless missing or displaced. Keep us mindful of the precious gift that is life. We pray for those who wonder and question. Move through the walls of prejudice and fear and history to call forth new life. May faith in love bring us together rather than divide or isolate us.
Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
We pray for the creatures and this good earth which sustains us all. May we question the politics and economics that pollute our waters, air and landfills. Remind us there is always more to life than our limited vision offers. Resurrection God…breathe your peace through creation.
Holy Mystery, You are always with us, and we are thankful that You do not leave us alone, to wait in fear. Send us out this day to be Your hands and Your heart, people of faith. We pray in Jesus’ name, who taught his friends to pray together singing…
THE LORD’S PRAYER #959 Voices United
YOUR GENEROSITY MATTERS “Healing Through Storytelling”
HYMN #396 Voices United “Jesus, Stand Among Us”
Jesus stand among us in your risen power; Let this time of worship be a hallowed hour.
Jesus stand among us in your risen power; Let this time of worship be a hallowed hour.
Breath the Holy Spirit into every heart; bid the fears and sorrows from each soul depart.
Lead our hearts to wisdom till our doubting cease, and to all assembled speak your word of peace.
CHANGING THE LIGHT May the Light of Easter goes with you …
SENDING FORTH
Listen to God’s breath within, It is the stirring of belief.
Voice your questions and doubts, They are the making of faith.
Touch the scars and wounds, They are the place of resurrection.
Peace be with you. Love heal you. The Spirit guide you, Now and always.
Hallelujah and Amen!
Listen to God’s breath within, It is the stirring of belief.
Voice your questions and doubts, They are the making of faith.
Touch the scars and wounds, They are the place of resurrection.
Peace be with you. Love heal you. The Spirit guide you, Now and always.
Hallelujah and Amen!
ON THE WAY #884 Voices United “You Shall Go Out with Joy” (x 2)
You shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace;
The mountains and the hills will break forth before you;
There’ll be shouts of joy, and all the trees of the field will clap, will clap their hands!
And all the trees of the field will clap their hands, trees of the field will clap their hands,
The trees of the field will clap their hands while you go out with joy.
You shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace;
The mountains and the hills will break forth before you;
There’ll be shouts of joy, and all the trees of the field will clap, will clap their hands!
And all the trees of the field will clap their hands, trees of the field will clap their hands,
The trees of the field will clap their hands while you go out with joy.
I wonder what questions have helped your faith grow?
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – April 7th, 2024
God calls us to create a community of faith where all are welcome and encouraged to participate fully: no matter where you’re from, when you were born, however you self-identify, whom you love,
or what you believe.
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST
This service was live and live-streamed to both Facebook and You-Tube on Sunday, April 7th, beginning at 10:20 pm and worship at 10:30 pm. Links are provided below and should be active by 1 pm on Sunday.
Facebook https://fb.watch/riAZSKqQn5/
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath, and make space for the Spirit.
GATHERING MUSIC #166 Voices United “Joy Comes with the Dawn”
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
Refrain Joy comes with the dawn; joy comes with the morning sun;
Joy springs from the tomb and scatters the night with her song, joy comes with the dawn.
Weeping may come; weeping may come in the night, when dark shadows cloud our sight. Refrain
Sorrow will turn, sorrow will turn into song, and God’s laughter make us strong. Refrain
We will rejoice, we will rejoice, and give praise to the One who brings us grace. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
We gather to worship, open to the Spirit’s guidance.
Wherever we are, God is already there.
We come from many places, drawn by Christ’s love.
Wherever we go, God is already there.
We offer to God our joy, our sorrow, our questions and dreams.
Whoever we are, God welcomes us to this place,
Where there is healing and hope for all.
We gather to worship, open to the Spirit’s guidance.
Wherever we are, God is already there.
We come from many places, drawn by Christ’s love.
Wherever we go, God is already there.
We offer to God our joy, our sorrow, our questions and dreams.
Whoever we are, God welcomes us to this place,
Where there is healing and hope for all.
Thanks be to God!
OPENING PRAYER [together]
Holy Stranger in our midst, surprise us again with Your presence. We travel a long and winding road through grief to resurrection. Warm our hearts with the wonder of Your word. Strengthen our hospitality until it reflects Your love and grace. Grant that we may truly see, and in seeing – trust; and in trusting – follow. In the name of the Risen Christ. Amen.
Holy Stranger in our midst, surprise us again with Your presence. We travel a long and winding road through grief to resurrection. Warm our hearts with the wonder of Your word. Strengthen our hospitality until it reflects Your love and grace. Grant that we may truly see, and in seeing – trust; and in trusting – follow. In the name of the Risen Christ. Amen.
HYMN #121 More Voices “Hey Now, Singing Hallelujah!” vss 1, 2, 5
Refrain Hey now! Singing hallelujah! Hey now! The morning has come!
Hey now! Singing hallelujah! The tomb was empty at the rising sun.
Refrain Hey now! Singing hallelujah! Hey now! The morning has come!
Hey now! Singing hallelujah! The tomb was empty at the rising sun.
Jesus loved people and he made them friends. Hey now, the tomb was empty.
He called to the children and the women and men. Hey now, the tomb was empty. Refrain
He called to the children and the women and men. Hey now, the tomb was empty. Refrain
Jesus healed people and he helped them be well. Hey now, the tomb was empty.
He taught about God in the stories he’d tell. Hey now, the tomb was empty. Refrain
He taught about God in the stories he’d tell. Hey now, the tomb was empty. Refrain
Jesus loves people and he lives again! Hey now, the tomb was empty.
Calls us disciples and he calls us his friends. Hey now, the tomb was empty. Refrain
Calls us disciples and he calls us his friends. Hey now, the tomb was empty. Refrain
DISCOVERY CIRCLE
SCRIPTURE READINGS Psalm 84 p. 800 VU with Refrain, Luke 24:13 – 16, 28 – 35
HYMN #184 Voices United “As We Walked Home at Close of Day” verses 1 – 3
As we walked home at close of day, a stranger joined us on our way.
He heard us speak of one who’d gone, and when we stopped, he carried on.
As we walked home at close of day, a stranger joined us on our way.
He heard us speak of one who’d gone, and when we stopped, he carried on.
“Why wander further without light? Please stay with us this troubled night.
We’ve shared the truth of how we feel and now would like to share a meal.”
We’ve shared the truth of how we feel and now would like to share a meal.”
We sat to eat our simple spread, then watched the stranger take the bread;
And, as he said the blessing prayer, we know that someone else was there.
And, as he said the blessing prayer, we know that someone else was there.
GOOD NEWS “Where to begin?”
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Welcome Stranger, journey with us this day and all days. Thank you for the countless people who have accompanied us, believed in us, comforted and encouraged us. Thank you for the gift to be that presence to others. Thank you for freedom and resources to travel. Keep us mindful of how our travel affects this earth and the very air we breathe. Teach us your balance between taking and giving.
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Gracious Host, gather up our broken-ness and bless us to Your purpose. We give thanks that you join us on this journey of life. Thank you for the beauty that surrounds us, for minds engaged to learn new things, for places of rest and sanctuary, for meals shared and blessings given and received. Turn us back to Your way, rejoicing.
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Crucified Christ, we pray for all those who grieve. Hold tenderly those marking the first Easter, first spring without a loved one. We pray for those who are alone, uncertain of the way, who see no path to hope. Be their steadfast companion, breathing new life, new possibilities into them. Thank you for already being with people and in places where life is a struggle, both those we know about, and those which do not make the news. Show us ways to make a positive difference in this world You love. We pray for all of us who gather here. Grant us eyes of faith, bless us to imagine new possibilities, give us the courage to welcome the strangers in our midst.
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Spirit of life, you call us to this journey of faith. To be alert to new hopes waiting to be seen. The way begins with ordinary acts of kindness, sharing a meal, talking with a stranger, sharing good news. May we look around as Jesus did, with the love of God in our view. We add our voices to generations of faithful in a sung version of the words Jesus taught his friends…
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Welcome Stranger, journey with us this day and all days. Thank you for the countless people who have accompanied us, believed in us, comforted and encouraged us. Thank you for the gift to be that presence to others. Thank you for freedom and resources to travel. Keep us mindful of how our travel affects this earth and the very air we breathe. Teach us your balance between taking and giving.
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Gracious Host, gather up our broken-ness and bless us to Your purpose. We give thanks that you join us on this journey of life. Thank you for the beauty that surrounds us, for minds engaged to learn new things, for places of rest and sanctuary, for meals shared and blessings given and received. Turn us back to Your way, rejoicing.
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Crucified Christ, we pray for all those who grieve. Hold tenderly those marking the first Easter, first spring without a loved one. We pray for those who are alone, uncertain of the way, who see no path to hope. Be their steadfast companion, breathing new life, new possibilities into them. Thank you for already being with people and in places where life is a struggle, both those we know about, and those which do not make the news. Show us ways to make a positive difference in this world You love. We pray for all of us who gather here. Grant us eyes of faith, bless us to imagine new possibilities, give us the courage to welcome the strangers in our midst.
Risen Christ … Reveal Your love through us.
Spirit of life, you call us to this journey of faith. To be alert to new hopes waiting to be seen. The way begins with ordinary acts of kindness, sharing a meal, talking with a stranger, sharing good news. May we look around as Jesus did, with the love of God in our view. We add our voices to generations of faithful in a sung version of the words Jesus taught his friends…
Sung THE LORD’S PRAYER #959 Voices United
YOUR GENEROSITY MATTERS “Supporting a Right’s-based Approach to Growing Food”
HYMN #88 More Voices “Over My Head” verses 1 – 3
Refrain Over my head, I hear music in the air. (x3) There must be a God somewhere!
Refrain Over my head, I hear music in the air. (x3) There must be a God somewhere!
When the storms of life are ragin’ I hear music in the air, (x3) Refrain
When the winds of strife are blowin’, I hear music in the air (x3) Refrain
When the tide of hate is risin’, I hear music in the air (x3) Refrain
SENDING FORTH
Travel with Christ, this day and all days.
May our eyes be open, our hearts untied, our minds unlocked.
May you find hospitality and share hope.
We go with joy, sustained by the Spirit,
Peace be with you. Love heal you. The Spirit guide you, Now and always.
Travel with Christ, this day and all days.
May our eyes be open, our hearts untied, our minds unlocked.
May you find hospitality and share hope.
We go with joy, sustained by the Spirit,
Peace be with you. Love heal you. The Spirit guide you, Now and always.
Hallelujah and Amen!
ON THE WAY #884 Voices United “You Shall Go Out with Joy” (x 2)
You shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace;
The mountains and the hills will break forth before you;
There’ll be shouts of joy, and all the trees of the field will clap, will clap their hands!
And all the trees of the field will clap their hands, trees of the field will clap their hands,
The trees of the field will clap their hands while you go out with joy.
You shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace;
The mountains and the hills will break forth before you;
There’ll be shouts of joy, and all the trees of the field will clap, will clap their hands!
And all the trees of the field will clap their hands, trees of the field will clap their hands,
The trees of the field will clap their hands while you go out with joy.
Wishing You wonder and courage as you live your faith!