We will be adding new worship material on this page and on our Facebook page https://facebook.com/firstunitedwetaskiwin/ each week.
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.
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 – September 20, 2020
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST
Permission to post the music in this service has been obtained from One License with license A-605619. All liturgy is original and I give permission for it to be shared.
Permission to post the music in this service has been obtained from One License with license A-605619. All liturgy is original and I give permission for it to be shared.
A Video link for this service will be available on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2020. You can find previous worship services and links below or on our Facebook page.
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit, as we welcome the light.
HYMN #4 All God’s Children Sing “All God’s Critters” verses 1, 3 & 4
Refrain All God’s critters got a place in the choir. Some sing low. Some sing higher.
Some sing out loud on the telephone wire. And some just clap their hands, or paws,
Or anything they got now!
Refrain All God’s critters got a place in the choir. Some sing low. Some sing higher.
Some sing out loud on the telephone wire. And some just clap their hands, or paws,
Or anything they got now!
Listen to the bass it’s the one on the bottom where the bullfrog croaks and the hippopotamus
Moans and groans with a bit t’do, and the old cow just goes “Moo”. Refrain
Moans and groans with a bit t’do, and the old cow just goes “Moo”. Refrain
Listen to the top where the little birds sing on the melodies with the high noties ringing.
The hoot owl hollers over everything and the jaybird disagrees. Refrain
The hoot owl hollers over everything and the jaybird disagrees. Refrain
It’s a simple song of living sung everywhere, by the ox and the fox and the grizzly bear,
The grumpy alligator and the hawk above, the sly racoon and the turtle dove. Refrain.
The grumpy alligator and the hawk above, the sly racoon and the turtle dove. Refrain.
CALL TO WORSHIP
God … how many times?
Will You clothe the earth in abundant harvest? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God How many times?
Will You scatter riots of colour in sunset or flower? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God … How many times?
Will You welcome us and remind us we are loved? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God … How many times?
Will You ask us to follow despite our imperfections? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God .. How many times?
Will we have to practice Your compassion and forgiveness,
Seventy times seven … and then some!
God … how many times?
Will we turn to You seeking strength and guidance, seventy times seven … and then some!
Let us worship together, with this God who calls us and loves us
Seventy times seven … and then some!
God … how many times?
Will You clothe the earth in abundant harvest? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God How many times?
Will You scatter riots of colour in sunset or flower? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God … How many times?
Will You welcome us and remind us we are loved? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God … How many times?
Will You ask us to follow despite our imperfections? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God .. How many times?
Will we have to practice Your compassion and forgiveness,
Seventy times seven … and then some!
God … how many times?
Will we turn to You seeking strength and guidance, seventy times seven … and then some!
Let us worship together, with this God who calls us and loves us
Seventy times seven … and then some!
PRAYER FOR RECONCILIATION [Together]
God of justice and of mercy we would know You better. We are worn weary by uncertainty. Teach us to find rest in Your peace. When we are the cause of hurt, when we are quick to judge, grace us with Your humility. Free us to forgive others as we have been forgiven by You. Strengthen us to practice forgiveness and kindness seventy times seven, and then some. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
DISCOVERY CIRCLE Listening with God
I wonder how you listen? I wonder what you hear? I wonder how you hear God?
Sometimes we are too busy. Listening takes practice. Sometimes we hear God in others, in creation, when we gather together, or deep within ourselves. What matters is that we take time to listen!
I wonder how you listen? I wonder what you hear? I wonder how you hear God?
Sometimes we are too busy. Listening takes practice. Sometimes we hear God in others, in creation, when we gather together, or deep within ourselves. What matters is that we take time to listen!
SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 19 p. 740 Voices United with Refrain #2 Matthew 18:21 -33
Psalm 19 p. 740 Voices United with Refrain #2 Matthew 18:21 -33
HYMN #161 More Voices “I have Called You by Your Name” verses 1 , 3 & 4
I have called you by your name, you are mine; I have gifted you and ask you now to shine.
I will not abandon you; all my promises are true, You are gifted, called and chosen,
You are mine.
I have called you by your name, you are mine; I have gifted you and ask you now to shine.
I will not abandon you; all my promises are true, You are gifted, called and chosen,
You are mine.
I know you will need my touch as you go; feel it pulsing in creation’s ebb and flow.
Like the woman reaching out, choosing faith in spite of doubt,
Hold the hem of Jesus’ robe, then let it go.
Like the woman reaching out, choosing faith in spite of doubt,
Hold the hem of Jesus’ robe, then let it go.
I have given you a name, it is mine; I have you given you my Spirit as a sign.
With my wonder in your soul, make my wounded children whole;
Go and tell my precious people they are mine.
With my wonder in your soul, make my wounded children whole;
Go and tell my precious people they are mine.
GOOD NEWS- “How Many Times?”
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER
Holy One, By Your grace…so may we live.
Holy One, By Your grace…so may we live.
Hello God, we know You’re rather busy, but we want You to know how thankful we are. You have given us a beautiful world to live in, the sun warms our hearts, despite the cooler weather that comes too soon. Help us to remember that throughout the changing seasons of life, You are with us. Thank You for Your patience. Holy One, by Your grace...so may we live.
In the midst of our gratitude, we are also challenged by the diversity of creation. Forgive us the times we have lived abundantly at the expense of others or this earth. Teach us a greater appreciation of difference, that it might strengthen the community we share. We pray for the people and leaders of nations divided, where difference is used as an excuse for violence. Wherever opinions become polarized, when we cease to listen to one another, be a source of calm and reason in the midst of much fear and anger. We pray for the protesters, for the emergency responders and police officers. May they recognize in one another Your presence and call to create healthy, safe communities. We give thanks that there are many people who answer Your call and labour on Your behalf. Open our eyes to the people and situations near at hand, where we can make a difference.
In the midst of our gratitude, we are also challenged by the diversity of creation. Forgive us the times we have lived abundantly at the expense of others or this earth. Teach us a greater appreciation of difference, that it might strengthen the community we share. We pray for the people and leaders of nations divided, where difference is used as an excuse for violence. Wherever opinions become polarized, when we cease to listen to one another, be a source of calm and reason in the midst of much fear and anger. We pray for the protesters, for the emergency responders and police officers. May they recognize in one another Your presence and call to create healthy, safe communities. We give thanks that there are many people who answer Your call and labour on Your behalf. Open our eyes to the people and situations near at hand, where we can make a difference.
Holy One, by Your grace…so may we live.
Loving God, we would be your people, signs of Your kingdom here on earth. Help us to offer hope to those in despair, comfort to those who mourn, mercy to those who have wronged us.
Loving God, we would be your people, signs of Your kingdom here on earth. Help us to offer hope to those in despair, comfort to those who mourn, mercy to those who have wronged us.
You’re invited to take some time silent prayer …
Holy One, by Your grace…so may we live.
We pray, gathering our hearts and voices together in the words Jesus taught his friends, Our Father, who art in heaven…. Your names. Your kin-dom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory for ever and ever. Amen
We pray, gathering our hearts and voices together in the words Jesus taught his friends, Our Father, who art in heaven…. Your names. Your kin-dom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory for ever and ever. Amen
HYMN #651 Voices United “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”
Guide me, O thou great Jehovah, pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but thou art mighty, hold me with thy powerful hand.
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more, feed me till I want no more.
Guide me, O thou great Jehovah, pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but thou art mighty, hold me with thy powerful hand.
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more, feed me till I want no more.
Open now the crystal fountain, whence the healing stream doth flow;
let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through. Strong deliverer, strong deliverer,
be thou still my strength and shield, be thou still my strength and shield.
let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through. Strong deliverer, strong deliverer,
be thou still my strength and shield, be thou still my strength and shield.
When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside;
death of death, and hell’s destruction, land me safe on Canaan’s side:
songs of praises, songs of praises I will ever give to thee, I will ever give to thee.
death of death, and hell’s destruction, land me safe on Canaan’s side:
songs of praises, songs of praises I will ever give to thee, I will ever give to thee.
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the light goes with you.
SENDING FORTH
God …. how many times, Do you offer us your guidance and wisdom?
God …. how many times, Do you offer us your guidance and wisdom?
Seventy times seven … and then some!
God …. how many times,
Do you open new possibilities around us? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God …. how many times,
Do you ask us to love and forgive in Christ’s name?
Seventy times seven … and then some!
May we go into this world to be a blessing,
May goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our life. May we dwell in the light and it in us,
Seventy times seven … and then some! Amen!
God …. how many times,
Do you open new possibilities around us? Seventy times seven … and then some!
God …. how many times,
Do you ask us to love and forgive in Christ’s name?
Seventy times seven … and then some!
May we go into this world to be a blessing,
May goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our life. May we dwell in the light and it in us,
Seventy times seven … and then some! Amen!
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – September 13, 2020
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST
Permission to post the music in this service has been obtained from One License with license A-605619. All liturgy is original and I give permission for it to be shared.
Permission to post the music in this service has been obtained from One License with license A-605619. All liturgy is original and I give permission for it to be shared.
A Video link for this service is provided below.
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT
You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit, as we welcome the light.
HYMN #74 All God’s Children Sing “In the Beginning was the Word” verses 1, 2 & 5
There was God in the beginning with the darkness all around.
“Let there be light!”, She said, and it was found. And God created everything
By saying just one word, and if we had been there, this is what we would have heard:
There was God in the beginning with the darkness all around.
“Let there be light!”, She said, and it was found. And God created everything
By saying just one word, and if we had been there, this is what we would have heard:
Refrain: ‘Ha ha ha ha ha ha, ha ha ha ha ha ha, ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!
Ha ha ha ha ha ha, ha ha ha ha ha ha, ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!
Ha ha ha ha ha ha, ha ha ha ha ha ha, ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!
Sarah was a woman who was all of nintey-one. That’s pretty old to start to be a mum!
When God announced that Sarah she would have a baby soon, she feel upon her face,
And said in a swoon: Refrain
When God announced that Sarah she would have a baby soon, she feel upon her face,
And said in a swoon: Refrain
It was God who made the heavens; it was God who made the earth.
It was God who gave us all new birth.
And God has had a message that she wants us all to share.
So this is the word that we’re spreading everywhere: Refrain
It was God who gave us all new birth.
And God has had a message that she wants us all to share.
So this is the word that we’re spreading everywhere: Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
God sparks light and gentles darkness, and it is good! Thank you God!
God spins dawning into dusk, dust into life, and it is good! Thank you God!
God shivers cold and kindles warmth, and it is good! Thank you God!
God shouts noise and hushes silence, and it is good! Thank you God!
God creates us in God’s own image, calls us to worship in this community, and it is good!
God sparks light and gentles darkness, and it is good! Thank you God!
God spins dawning into dusk, dust into life, and it is good! Thank you God!
God shivers cold and kindles warmth, and it is good! Thank you God!
God shouts noise and hushes silence, and it is good! Thank you God!
God creates us in God’s own image, calls us to worship in this community, and it is good!
Thank you God!
OPENING PRAYER
Spirit of the living God, fall upon us all. Thank You for sharing so generously the greatest treasures: warmth of sun, rest of night, the song bird’s music, the laughter of a child, the redeeming love of Christ which cannot be bought or sold. May this time of worship renew our commitment to live with respect in creation. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen
Spirit of the living God, fall upon us all. Thank You for sharing so generously the greatest treasures: warmth of sun, rest of night, the song bird’s music, the laughter of a child, the redeeming love of Christ which cannot be bought or sold. May this time of worship renew our commitment to live with respect in creation. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen
SCRIPTURE READINGS Psalm 65 p. 782 Voices United with Refrain, Matthew 18:1 – 5
HYMN #37 More Voices “Each Blade of Grass”
Each blade of grass, ev’ry wing that soars, the waves the sweep across a distant shore,
Make full the circle of God.
Each laughing child, ev’ry gentle eye, a forest lit beneath a moonlit sky,
Make full the circle of God.
Each blade of grass, ev’ry wing that soars, the waves the sweep across a distant shore,
Make full the circle of God.
Each laughing child, ev’ry gentle eye, a forest lit beneath a moonlit sky,
Make full the circle of God.
Each silent paw, ev’ry rounded stone, the buzz that echoes from a honey’d comb,
Make full the circle of God.
Each fire-brimmed star, ev’ry outstretched hand, the wind that leaps and sails across the land,
Make full the circle of God.
Make full the circle of God.
Each fire-brimmed star, ev’ry outstretched hand, the wind that leaps and sails across the land,
Make full the circle of God.
Each icy peak, ev’ry patterned shell, the joyous chorus that the dawn foretells,
Make full the circle of God.
Each cosmic hue, ev’ry creature’s way, all form the beauty of this vast array,
Making full the circle of God.
Make full the circle of God.
Each cosmic hue, ev’ry creature’s way, all form the beauty of this vast array,
Making full the circle of God.
GOOD NEWS Creation Time
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER
Creating God … renew us in Your image.
We thank You God, that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Each cell and organ, so different in function, but united in purpose. Thank You for the most precious gift of life itself. As people of so many different experiences and hopes, may we also be united in Your purpose of love and justice for creation. Creating God … renew us in Your image.
Spirit of life fall afresh on us and upon those in need. Be the breath of hope to those who despair, the light for those who walk in darkness, the gift of love for those who feel unwanted. As living signs of Your presence, Holy One, may we reach out with compassion; comfort those who grieve, and care for one another, as You care for us.
Creating God … renew us in Your image.
You call us to live with respect in creation, to seek justice and resist evil. We do not always answer your call. We pray for those who work on our behalf, caring for creatures and eco-systems. Teach us new ways to walk lightly upon this good earth. May we live more simply that others might simply live. We pray especially for… time for silent prayer
Creating God, … renew us in Your image. In the ebb and flow of creation’s energy, in the chaos and the quiet of life that surrounds us, grant us the courage and grace to welcome this moment, this week as hospitably as You welcome us. Creating God, … renew us in Your image. And send us out as your people to bless and renew the face of the earth in Christ’s name, who taught his friends to pray together saying, Our Father, who art in heaven…
Creating God … renew us in Your image.
We thank You God, that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Each cell and organ, so different in function, but united in purpose. Thank You for the most precious gift of life itself. As people of so many different experiences and hopes, may we also be united in Your purpose of love and justice for creation. Creating God … renew us in Your image.
Spirit of life fall afresh on us and upon those in need. Be the breath of hope to those who despair, the light for those who walk in darkness, the gift of love for those who feel unwanted. As living signs of Your presence, Holy One, may we reach out with compassion; comfort those who grieve, and care for one another, as You care for us.
Creating God … renew us in Your image.
You call us to live with respect in creation, to seek justice and resist evil. We do not always answer your call. We pray for those who work on our behalf, caring for creatures and eco-systems. Teach us new ways to walk lightly upon this good earth. May we live more simply that others might simply live. We pray especially for… time for silent prayer
Creating God, … renew us in Your image. In the ebb and flow of creation’s energy, in the chaos and the quiet of life that surrounds us, grant us the courage and grace to welcome this moment, this week as hospitably as You welcome us. Creating God, … renew us in Your image. And send us out as your people to bless and renew the face of the earth in Christ’s name, who taught his friends to pray together saying, Our Father, who art in heaven…
HYMN #291 Voices United “All Things Bright and Beautiful” verses 1, 3 & 5
Refrain All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful: in love, God made them all.
Refrain All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful: in love, God made them all.
Each little flower that opens, each little bird that sings,
God made their glowing colours, God made their tiny wings. Refrain
God made their glowing colours, God made their tiny wings. Refrain
The cold wind in the winter, the pleasant summer sun,
the ripe fruits in the garden: God made them every one. Refrain
the ripe fruits in the garden: God made them every one. Refrain
God gave us eyes to see them, and lips that we might tell
how great is God our maker, who has made all things well. Refrain
how great is God our maker, who has made all things well. Refrain
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the light goes with you.
SENDING FORTH
Look – Wait!
See – Listen!
Can you Hear it? God calls us,
Into the world. Listen!
Wonder – Look!
Can you see? Christ goes with us,
To serve in gratitude! Breathe deep
Receive – Share.
Can you feel it? The Spirit fills us,
with hope and possibility. So go enjoy and tend God’s good creation. May goodness and mercy follow you all the days of your life. May you dwell in the light and it in you. Amen and Amen!
Look – Wait!
See – Listen!
Can you Hear it? God calls us,
Into the world. Listen!
Wonder – Look!
Can you see? Christ goes with us,
To serve in gratitude! Breathe deep
Receive – Share.
Can you feel it? The Spirit fills us,
with hope and possibility. So go enjoy and tend God’s good creation. May goodness and mercy follow you all the days of your life. May you dwell in the light and it in you. Amen and Amen!
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – September 6, 2020
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST
Permission to post the music in this service has been obtained from One License with license A-605619. All liturgy is original and I give permission for it to be shared.
Permission to post the music in this service has been obtained from One License with license A-605619. All liturgy is original and I give permission for it to be shared.
A video link for this service is provided below.
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit, as we welcome the light.
HYMN #658 Voices United “O Love that Wilt not Let Me Go” verses 1 – 3
O Love that wilt not let me go, I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe, that in thine ocean depths its flow may richer, fuller be.
O Love that wilt not let me go, I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe, that in thine ocean depths its flow may richer, fuller be.
O Light that followest all my way, I yield my flickering torch to thee;
my heart restores its borrowed ray, that in thy sunshine’s blaze its day may brighter, fairer be.
my heart restores its borrowed ray, that in thy sunshine’s blaze its day may brighter, fairer be.
O Joy that seekest me through pain, I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain, and feel the promise is not vain that morn shall tearless be.
I trace the rainbow through the rain, and feel the promise is not vain that morn shall tearless be.
CALL TO WORSHIP
We are the people of God, scattered and wherever we are gathered, God is with us.
In our times of worship, grieving and celebrating, God is with us.
In the office or classroom, at the check-out or playground, God is with us.
Across the table, across the hall, across the fence, In all we say and do. God is with us.
And we are never the same. Thanks be to God, who is always with us!
We are the people of God, scattered and wherever we are gathered, God is with us.
In our times of worship, grieving and celebrating, God is with us.
In the office or classroom, at the check-out or playground, God is with us.
Across the table, across the hall, across the fence, In all we say and do. God is with us.
And we are never the same. Thanks be to God, who is always with us!
OPENING PRAYER
Holy Love that will not let us go, work in us this day. We are quick to judge others but we do not always want to hear the truth about ourselves. By Your grace, tease out those denials that limit us. Strengthen our curiosity. Deepen our understanding. Thank You for caring enough to keep loving us, when we’re wrong, when we fail, when we’d rather give up. May we extend Your patience to others. Speak Your truth until we hear. And having heard, learn to live it. Amen.
Holy Love that will not let us go, work in us this day. We are quick to judge others but we do not always want to hear the truth about ourselves. By Your grace, tease out those denials that limit us. Strengthen our curiosity. Deepen our understanding. Thank You for caring enough to keep loving us, when we’re wrong, when we fail, when we’d rather give up. May we extend Your patience to others. Speak Your truth until we hear. And having heard, learn to live it. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READINGS Psalm 149 p. 873 Voices United Refrain #1
Romans 13:8 – 10, Matthew 18:15 – 20
Romans 13:8 – 10, Matthew 18:15 – 20
GOOD NEWS “Seeking the Truth in Love”
WELCOME TO TABLE #460 Voices United “All Who Hunger”
All who hunger, gather gladly; holy manna is our bread.
Come from wilderness and wandering. Here, in truth, we will be fed.
You that yearn for days of fullness, all around us is our food.
Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good.
All who hunger, gather gladly; holy manna is our bread.
Come from wilderness and wandering. Here, in truth, we will be fed.
You that yearn for days of fullness, all around us is our food.
Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good.
All who hunger, never strangers; seeker, be a welcome guest.
Come from restlessness and roaming. Here, in joy, we keep the feast.
We that once were lost and scattered in communion’s love have stood.
Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good.
Come from restlessness and roaming. Here, in joy, we keep the feast.
We that once were lost and scattered in communion’s love have stood.
Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good.
All who hunger, sing together; Jesus Christ is living bread.
Come from loneliness and longing. Here, in peace, we have been led.
Blest are those who from this table live their lives in gratitude.
Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good.
Come from loneliness and longing. Here, in peace, we have been led.
Blest are those who from this table live their lives in gratitude.
Taste and see the grace eternal. Taste and see that God is good.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
God is with us in joy and in sorrow, We lift our lives to God in thanksgiving and praise!
God of all peoples and places, we give thanks for the welcoming embrace of Your love:
A love made known to us in many ways;
A love that travels with us, from the known into the unknown;
A love which comforts and sustains us when all is bitterness or despair;
A love which calls us beyond the comfortable, Until all creation lives Your praise.
Holy, holy, holy are You, God of love and light.
Heaven and earth are full of Your glory.
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is the one who comes in God’s name:
Jesus, the word made flesh: who is for us the way, the truth, and the life:
Who brings good news to the poor, proclaims release to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, And who lets the oppressed go free;
Who calls us to be followers of this way.
We gather in communion with all those who have gone before and the generations who will follow.
Jesus invites us to this table, to taste and see, to experience and remember the love of God broken and poured out for each of us.
On the night he was anointed, Jesus sat at table with friends, even those he knew would hurt and betray him.
He took the bread, blessed it, broke it and gave it to them.
Take eat. This is my body given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.
After supper Jesus took the cup, gave thanks and shared it with them.
Drink this, all of you: this is the covenant made with my life. It is poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins.
Whenever you drink it, remember me.
We also remember all those with whom you would have us share your feast.
We pray for all who are in sorrow, … or in pain… all who are ill…. or alone….
for all who seek to do the will of God and suffer the consequences….
For all who live with fear, violence or hunger…
We pray for the church and its varied ministries…
for nations as they strive for peace and justice…
for our families and friends.
Grant that in praise and thanksgiving, we may offer ourselves to You, Holy One, that our lives may proclaim the mystery of faith:
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
Send Your Holy Spirit, O God, upon this bread, the fruit of the vine and upon us. Through Your blessing, may we rise as the body of Christ, empowered by Your Spirit to live as signs of shalom to one another and to all creation.
Through Christ, with Christ and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory is Yours, now and forever. Amen.
God is with us in joy and in sorrow, We lift our lives to God in thanksgiving and praise!
God of all peoples and places, we give thanks for the welcoming embrace of Your love:
A love made known to us in many ways;
A love that travels with us, from the known into the unknown;
A love which comforts and sustains us when all is bitterness or despair;
A love which calls us beyond the comfortable, Until all creation lives Your praise.
Holy, holy, holy are You, God of love and light.
Heaven and earth are full of Your glory.
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is the one who comes in God’s name:
Jesus, the word made flesh: who is for us the way, the truth, and the life:
Who brings good news to the poor, proclaims release to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, And who lets the oppressed go free;
Who calls us to be followers of this way.
We gather in communion with all those who have gone before and the generations who will follow.
Jesus invites us to this table, to taste and see, to experience and remember the love of God broken and poured out for each of us.
On the night he was anointed, Jesus sat at table with friends, even those he knew would hurt and betray him.
He took the bread, blessed it, broke it and gave it to them.
Take eat. This is my body given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.
After supper Jesus took the cup, gave thanks and shared it with them.
Drink this, all of you: this is the covenant made with my life. It is poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins.
Whenever you drink it, remember me.
We also remember all those with whom you would have us share your feast.
We pray for all who are in sorrow, … or in pain… all who are ill…. or alone….
for all who seek to do the will of God and suffer the consequences….
For all who live with fear, violence or hunger…
We pray for the church and its varied ministries…
for nations as they strive for peace and justice…
for our families and friends.
Grant that in praise and thanksgiving, we may offer ourselves to You, Holy One, that our lives may proclaim the mystery of faith:
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
Send Your Holy Spirit, O God, upon this bread, the fruit of the vine and upon us. Through Your blessing, may we rise as the body of Christ, empowered by Your Spirit to live as signs of shalom to one another and to all creation.
Through Christ, with Christ and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory is Yours, now and forever. Amen.
SHARING AT TABLE
The Peace of Christ be with you … And also with you.
… These are the gifts of God, for the people of God. Thanks be to God!
The Peace of Christ be with you … And also with you.
… These are the gifts of God, for the people of God. Thanks be to God!
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
For the bread we have eaten, for the cup we have shared, for the life we have received, we thank You, God. May we leave this time strong in spirit, compassionate in heart, courageous in action and generous in love. We pray in the words Jesus taught us, saying ‘Our Father, who art in heaven… . Amen.
For the bread we have eaten, for the cup we have shared, for the life we have received, we thank You, God. May we leave this time strong in spirit, compassionate in heart, courageous in action and generous in love. We pray in the words Jesus taught us, saying ‘Our Father, who art in heaven… . Amen.
HYMN #420 Voices United “Go to the World” verses 2 – 4
Go to the world! Go into every place. Go live the Word of God’s redeeming grace.
Go seek God’s presence in each time and space. Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Go to the world! Go into every place. Go live the Word of God’s redeeming grace.
Go seek God’s presence in each time and space. Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Go to the world! Go struggle, bless and pray; the nights of tears give way to joyous day.
As servant Church, you follow Christ’s own way. Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
As servant Church, you follow Christ’s own way. Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Go to the world! Go as the ones I send, for I am with you ’til the age shall end,
when all the hosts of glory cry ‘Amen!’ Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
when all the hosts of glory cry ‘Amen!’ Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the light goes with you.
SENDING FORTH
As we go from this time of worship, God goes with us.
Into our circles of family and friends. God goes with us.
Into the joys and frustrations of daily living, God goes with us.
And the world is never the same. Go in peace and take peace into an aching world.
Be renewed by the love of God, strengthened by the courage of Christ and enlivened by the Spirit to face what awaits with hope because, God goes with us. Amen!
As we go from this time of worship, God goes with us.
Into our circles of family and friends. God goes with us.
Into the joys and frustrations of daily living, God goes with us.
And the world is never the same. Go in peace and take peace into an aching world.
Be renewed by the love of God, strengthened by the courage of Christ and enlivened by the Spirit to face what awaits with hope because, God goes with us. Amen!
Thank you for worshiping with us! God bless, be well and look after each other.
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – August 30, 2020
WELCOME & NEWS OF INTEREST Permission to post the music in this service has been obtained from One License with license A-605619 . All liturgy is original and I give permission for it to be shared.
A link to the video version of this service is available below or can be found on our Facebook page.
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit, as we welcome the light.
HYMN #32 All God’s Children Sing “If I were a Butterfly”
If I were a butterfly, I’d thank you God for giving me wings.
And if I were a robin in a tree, I’d thank you God that I can sing.
And if I were a fish in the sea, I’d wiggle my tail and I’d giggle with glee,
but I just thank you God for making me, me.
If I were a butterfly, I’d thank you God for giving me wings.
And if I were a robin in a tree, I’d thank you God that I can sing.
And if I were a fish in the sea, I’d wiggle my tail and I’d giggle with glee,
but I just thank you God for making me, me.
Refrain For you gave me a heart, and you gave me a smile.
You gave me Jesus, and you made me your child.
But I just thank you God for making me, me.
You gave me Jesus, and you made me your child.
But I just thank you God for making me, me.
If were an elephant, I’d thank you God for raising my trunk.
And if I were a kangaroo, I’d hop, hop, hop right over to you.
And if I were an octopus, I’d thank you God for my fine looks,
But I just thank you God for making me, me Refrain
And if I were a kangaroo, I’d hop, hop, hop right over to you.
And if I were an octopus, I’d thank you God for my fine looks,
But I just thank you God for making me, me Refrain
If I were a crocodile, I’d thank you God for my fine smile.
And if I were a wiggily worm, I’d thank you God that I could squirm.
And if I were a fuzzy, wuzzy bear, I’d thank you God for my fuzzy, wuzzy hair.
But I just thank you God for making me, me. Refrain
And if I were a wiggily worm, I’d thank you God that I could squirm.
And if I were a fuzzy, wuzzy bear, I’d thank you God for my fuzzy, wuzzy hair.
But I just thank you God for making me, me. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
Come from work and play to a time of renewal. Lose your life … to find it.
Come with your questions, your fears, your hopes. Lose your life … to find it.
Come and be changed in the love that makes all things new. Lose your life … to find it.
Come. Because it is God who calls and Christ who invites us to lose our life … to find it.
Come from work and play to a time of renewal. Lose your life … to find it.
Come with your questions, your fears, your hopes. Lose your life … to find it.
Come and be changed in the love that makes all things new. Lose your life … to find it.
Come. Because it is God who calls and Christ who invites us to lose our life … to find it.
OPENING PRAYER
Courage Giver, You call us to follow. We are people who face many challenges and fears. Be-friender you stand beside us. You touch our despair with hope. Your love is the rainbow after the storm. You are with us at home, and at school, in the shops and farm yards, in the office and the play ground. May this time of worship remind us of your abiding presence. May we carry the face of Christ to those who meet us. Amen.
Courage Giver, You call us to follow. We are people who face many challenges and fears. Be-friender you stand beside us. You touch our despair with hope. Your love is the rainbow after the storm. You are with us at home, and at school, in the shops and farm yards, in the office and the play ground. May this time of worship remind us of your abiding presence. May we carry the face of Christ to those who meet us. Amen.
DISCOVERY CIRCLE What do you mean by good?
Jackie’s really good at playing the piano
I asked Daniel if he wanted more, but he said, no thanks, I’m good.
I wonder what makes a good Christian?
Jackie’s really good at playing the piano
I asked Daniel if he wanted more, but he said, no thanks, I’m good.
I wonder what makes a good Christian?
SCRIPTURE READINGS Romans 12:9 – 21
Matthew 16:21 – 28
Matthew 16:21 – 28
HYMN #578 Voices United “As a Fire is Meant for Burning”
As a fire is meant for burning with a bright and warming flame,
so the church is meant for mission, giving glory to God’s name.
Not to preach our creeds or customs, but to build a bridge of care,
we join hands across the nations, finding neighbours everywhere.
As a fire is meant for burning with a bright and warming flame,
so the church is meant for mission, giving glory to God’s name.
Not to preach our creeds or customs, but to build a bridge of care,
we join hands across the nations, finding neighbours everywhere.
We are learners; we are teachers; we are pilgrims on the way.
We are seekers; we are givers; we are vessels made of clay.
By our gentle, loving actions, we would show that Christ is light.
In a humble, listening Spirit, we would live to God’s delight.
We are seekers; we are givers; we are vessels made of clay.
By our gentle, loving actions, we would show that Christ is light.
In a humble, listening Spirit, we would live to God’s delight.
As a green bud in the springtime is a sign of life renewed,
so may we be signs of oneness mid earth’s peoples, many-hued.
As a rainbow lights the heavens when a storm is past and gone,
may our lives reflect the radiance of God’s new and glorious dawn.
so may we be signs of oneness mid earth’s peoples, many-hued.
As a rainbow lights the heavens when a storm is past and gone,
may our lives reflect the radiance of God’s new and glorious dawn.
GOOD NEWS-
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER
Christ, help us take up our cross.. In service to love.
God of many names, we pause this day to centre our thoughts on you, the Living God. We take time to feel the rhythm of life flowing through our bodies, breathing in the delights of summer scents, savouring the moments and experiences which fill our senses with your presence. Thank you for the beauty that surrounds us, for the many ways you offer us love and hope, through the laughter of a child, a hug from a friend, the smile of a stranger. You are the rock of our lives, the solid foundation from which we can spread our wings and fly. When we feel lost or alone Christ, help us take up our cross..
Christ, help us take up our cross.. In service to love.
God of many names, we pause this day to centre our thoughts on you, the Living God. We take time to feel the rhythm of life flowing through our bodies, breathing in the delights of summer scents, savouring the moments and experiences which fill our senses with your presence. Thank you for the beauty that surrounds us, for the many ways you offer us love and hope, through the laughter of a child, a hug from a friend, the smile of a stranger. You are the rock of our lives, the solid foundation from which we can spread our wings and fly. When we feel lost or alone Christ, help us take up our cross..
In service to love.
Eternal God we pray for the strength to meet the challenges of living in a rapidly changing world. Help us to be patient and flexible, faithful to your will and open to the mystery of your presence. In the depths of our hearts we offer to you the concerns and hopes of our living.
[ time for silent prayer]
[ time for silent prayer]
Miracle of grace, fill our silence with your hope.
We pray especially for the students, teachers, custodial staff and families of those starting school; for the farmers who are preparing or already harvesting; for those for whom there will be no school, no crop; Christ, help us take up our cross.. In service to love.
We pray, gathering our hearts and voices together in the words Jesus taught his friends, Our Father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory for ever and ever. Amen
We pray especially for the students, teachers, custodial staff and families of those starting school; for the farmers who are preparing or already harvesting; for those for whom there will be no school, no crop; Christ, help us take up our cross.. In service to love.
We pray, gathering our hearts and voices together in the words Jesus taught his friends, Our Father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory for ever and ever. Amen
HYMN #134 Voices United “To Show by Touch and Word”
To show by touch and word devotion to the earth,
to hold in full regard all life that comes to birth,
we need, O God, the will to find the good you had of old in mind.
To show by touch and word devotion to the earth,
to hold in full regard all life that comes to birth,
we need, O God, the will to find the good you had of old in mind.
Renew our minds to choose the things that matter most,
our hearts to long for truth till pride of self is lost.
For every challenge that we face we need your guidance and your grace.
our hearts to long for truth till pride of self is lost.
For every challenge that we face we need your guidance and your grace.
Let love from day to day be yardstick, rule, and norm,
and let our lives portray your word in human form.
Now come with us that we may have your wits about us where we live.
and let our lives portray your word in human form.
Now come with us that we may have your wits about us where we live.
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the light of goes with you.
SENDING FORTH
Let love be genuine. We will hold fast to what is good.
Rejoice in hope. God grace us with patience in our suffering.
Persevere in prayer.
We do so with the peace of Christ and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
God’s blessing is gospel for our hearts, music for our souls;
Courage for our faith; Purpose for our lives; Compassion for our hands; the way we journey.
We go to love and be loved! Amen!
Let love be genuine. We will hold fast to what is good.
Rejoice in hope. God grace us with patience in our suffering.
Persevere in prayer.
We do so with the peace of Christ and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
God’s blessing is gospel for our hearts, music for our souls;
Courage for our faith; Purpose for our lives; Compassion for our hands; the way we journey.
We go to love and be loved! Amen!