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. We live stream our services to Facebook and You-Tube, starting with announcements about 10:20 am and worship at 10:30 am. Thank you for making time to nurture your spirit and add to the goodness in Creation!
You can read over the print version of weekly worship 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 – September 25, 2022
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, September 25th. Links will be provided below and should be live by 1 pm, August 28. You are also welcome to join us in person in the sanctuary.
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit…
HYMN #30 More Voices “It’s a Song of Praise to the Maker” verses 1 & 4
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
Refrain And by the Spirit you and I can join our voice to the holy cry
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
It’s the chorus of all creation; it’s sung by all living things.
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
The heavens declare the glory of God!
The heavens declare the glory of God!
Each day is a gift from God!
Whether we notice it or not, whether we appreciate it or not,
Each day is a gift from God!
Without words or speech, still the message goes out.
Whether we notice it or not, whether we appreciate it or not,
Each day is a gift from God!
Without words or speech, still the message goes out.
Each day is a gift from God!
Let us worship and serve together
Let us worship and serve together
That our days might be a gift to God!
OPENING PRAYER [Together]
Hard-working God, You labour in our midst. You know the aches and pains of our living, the weariness that weighs upon our soul. May this time of worship and community open our hearts and minds to the wonder of Your love. Guide us, in spite of our distractions. Fill us, in spite of our tattered dreams. May we rest in the embrace of Your all sufficient grace and renew our commitment to living with respect in Creation and with all our relations. Amen.
Hard-working God, You labour in our midst. You know the aches and pains of our living, the weariness that weighs upon our soul. May this time of worship and community open our hearts and minds to the wonder of Your love. Guide us, in spite of our distractions. Fill us, in spite of our tattered dreams. May we rest in the embrace of Your all sufficient grace and renew our commitment to living with respect in Creation and with all our relations. Amen.
HYMN #59 Klusmeier Vol. 5 “Sunrise”
We greet the morning sunrise, and feel her warming rays
Evoking from far deep within new strength for coming days.
We honour her warm beauty, her awesome healing power,
Awaiting gift of sacred light to shine in heart each hour.
We greet the morning sunrise, and feel her warming rays
Evoking from far deep within new strength for coming days.
We honour her warm beauty, her awesome healing power,
Awaiting gift of sacred light to shine in heart each hour.
We greet the four directions: the East for power and strength;
The South, the home of grass and trees, and growth that knows no length;
The West for inspiration in lightning, thunder, rain:
The North, for Elder’s wisdom, truth at Fireside’s refrain.
The South, the home of grass and trees, and growth that knows no length;
The West for inspiration in lightning, thunder, rain:
The North, for Elder’s wisdom, truth at Fireside’s refrain.
We honour the Earth Mother, and touch the ground in awe;
We reach to Father Sky above, responding to Moon’s call.
We turn within for guidance, for message from the soul,
And then reach out to all our kin; in Circle we are whole.
We reach to Father Sky above, responding to Moon’s call.
We turn within for guidance, for message from the soul,
And then reach out to all our kin; in Circle we are whole.
DISCOVERY CIRCLE Matthew 20:1 – 16
SCRIPTURE READING Isaiah 40:28 – 31, Psalm 67 p. 786 with Refrain
HYMN #143 More Voices “We Cannot Own the Sunlit Sky”
We cannot own the sunlit sky, the moom, the wildflow’rs growing,
For we are part of all that is within life’s river flowing.
With open hands receive and share the gifts of God’s creation,
That all may have abundant life in ev’ry earthly nation.
We cannot own the sunlit sky, the moom, the wildflow’rs growing,
For we are part of all that is within life’s river flowing.
With open hands receive and share the gifts of God’s creation,
That all may have abundant life in ev’ry earthly nation.
When bodies shiver in the night and weary, wait for morning,
When children have no bread but tears, and warhorns sound their warning,
God calls humanity to wake, to join in common labour,
That all may have abundant life in oneness with their neighbour.
When children have no bread but tears, and warhorns sound their warning,
God calls humanity to wake, to join in common labour,
That all may have abundant life in oneness with their neighbour.
God calls humanity to join as partners in creating
A future free from want or fear, Life’s goodness celebrating
That new world beckons from afar, invites our shared endeavour,
That all may have abundant life and peace endure forever.
A future free from want or fear, Life’s goodness celebrating
That new world beckons from afar, invites our shared endeavour,
That all may have abundant life and peace endure forever.
MESSAGE
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us. Thank You for Your persistent care. You have placed us in this world, with resources and gifts beyond merit. You have dressed creation in the finest textures and a rainbow of colours; star-studded the beauty of the skies, washed our bitter souls with the fragrance of Your grace. Help us to pause each day, to notice the abundance that flows through our lives and to give thanks. Help us to live simply that others might simply live.
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us.
God, Your love is not diminished by suffering or death, but shines beyond an empty cross and tomb. We join our hearts with those who suffer the devastating aftermath of … will fill in world events. So many places where life hangs by a thread. We pray for immigrants and refugees, for people seeking to make a new life; for those who wait on street corners or in employment offices. Show us ways to value the gifts offered; the skills hard-learned; the different perspectives. God who seeks what is lost, we pray for those who waited for help and none came.
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us.
Compassionate one who weeps for God’s people, we pray for those who mourn the loss of loved ones or who worry at bedsides for the life of another. May we reach out with comfort and kind words. We pray for the strength of those who reach out with helping hands to find and return to safety your children who are at risk. Repairer-of-the-Streets, we pray for those who have lost homes, whole neighbourhoods which are no more, or those who have lost their means to a living. God of new life, we pray for ourselves that we might be moved to respond to the suffering of others wherever we see it, that together we might build a world where your love can live in every heart…
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us.
Faithful God, we pray in trust that you hear our prayers and are already answering in your love, through Christ who so loved the world. We add our hearts and voices to those of our ancestors in faith, saying, Our father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come… for yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us. Thank You for Your persistent care. You have placed us in this world, with resources and gifts beyond merit. You have dressed creation in the finest textures and a rainbow of colours; star-studded the beauty of the skies, washed our bitter souls with the fragrance of Your grace. Help us to pause each day, to notice the abundance that flows through our lives and to give thanks. Help us to live simply that others might simply live.
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us.
God, Your love is not diminished by suffering or death, but shines beyond an empty cross and tomb. We join our hearts with those who suffer the devastating aftermath of … will fill in world events. So many places where life hangs by a thread. We pray for immigrants and refugees, for people seeking to make a new life; for those who wait on street corners or in employment offices. Show us ways to value the gifts offered; the skills hard-learned; the different perspectives. God who seeks what is lost, we pray for those who waited for help and none came.
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us.
Compassionate one who weeps for God’s people, we pray for those who mourn the loss of loved ones or who worry at bedsides for the life of another. May we reach out with comfort and kind words. We pray for the strength of those who reach out with helping hands to find and return to safety your children who are at risk. Repairer-of-the-Streets, we pray for those who have lost homes, whole neighbourhoods which are no more, or those who have lost their means to a living. God of new life, we pray for ourselves that we might be moved to respond to the suffering of others wherever we see it, that together we might build a world where your love can live in every heart…
Generous God, let Your Spirit work through us.
Faithful God, we pray in trust that you hear our prayers and are already answering in your love, through Christ who so loved the world. We add our hearts and voices to those of our ancestors in faith, saying, Our father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come… for yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen
MINUTE FOR MISSION “Agricultural training in a year of un precedented hunger”
HYMN #227 Voices United “For the Fruit of All Creation”
For the fruit of all creation, thanks be to God. For the gifts to every nation, thanks be to God.
For the ploughing, sowing, reaping, silent growth while we are sleeping,
Future needs in earth’s safe keeping, thanks be to God.
For the fruit of all creation, thanks be to God. For the gifts to every nation, thanks be to God.
For the ploughing, sowing, reaping, silent growth while we are sleeping,
Future needs in earth’s safe keeping, thanks be to God.
In the just reward of labour, God’s will is done.
In the help we give our neighbour, God’s will is done.
In our world-wide task of caring for the hungry and despairing,
In the harvests we are sharing, God’s will is done.
In the help we give our neighbour, God’s will is done.
In our world-wide task of caring for the hungry and despairing,
In the harvests we are sharing, God’s will is done.
For the harvests of the Spirit, thanks be to God. For the good we all inherit, thanks be to God.
For the wonders that astound us, for the truths that still confound us,
Most of all that love has found us, thanks be to God.
For the wonders that astound us, for the truths that still confound us,
Most of all that love has found us, thanks be to God.
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the light goes with you.
ON THE WAY
God sends us into the world.
God sends us into the world.
Ordinary people with an extraordinary calling.
May we go from this place full of grace and hope
Strengthened to love and practising gratitude.
May we find ourselves in one another;
May we go from this place full of grace and hope
Strengthened to love and practising gratitude.
May we find ourselves in one another;
Lose ourselves in gladness, and gives ourselves to peace.
The blessing of God, the grace of Christ and the wisdom of the Holy Spirit goes with you.
This day and all days. Amen!
The blessing of God, the grace of Christ and the wisdom of the Holy Spirit goes with you.
This day and all days. Amen!
SENDING FORTH #214 More Voices “May God’s Sheltering Wings”
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
Thank You for Making Time to Nourish Your Spirit!
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – September 18th, 2022
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, Sunday, September 18th. Links are available below.
Facebook https://fb.watch/fD6EQT14eB/
You-Tube https://youtu.be/BhSXa3ySp8k
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit…
HYMN #30 More Voices “It’s a Song of Praise to the Maker” verses 1, 2 & 4
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
Refrain And by the Spirit you and I can join our voice to the holy cry
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
It’s a call of life to the Giver when waves and waterfalls roar.
It’s a call of life to the Giver when high tides break on the shore. Refrain
It’s a call of life to the Giver when high tides break on the shore. Refrain
It’s the chorus of all creation; it’s sung by all living things.
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
Beside deep, deep pools of peace, to lush green, lawns of grace,
Day by day, God leads us in love.
Through places of danger, to a welcome place in community,
Day by day, Jesus calls us to follow.
Into the family we are called to become,
Beside deep, deep pools of peace, to lush green, lawns of grace,
Day by day, God leads us in love.
Through places of danger, to a welcome place in community,
Day by day, Jesus calls us to follow.
Into the family we are called to become,
Day by day, the Spirit inspires us.
In this time of worship, and throughout our week,
Day by day, we respond with joy and gratitude.
In this time of worship, and throughout our week,
Day by day, we respond with joy and gratitude.
OPENING PRAYER
Shepherding God, we have wandered. We come seeking to be found and held in Your love. Feed us on Your grace. May we drink deeply of Your refreshing presence. Teach us trust in Your guiding. Call us by name and we will follow. Amen
Shepherding God, we have wandered. We come seeking to be found and held in Your love. Feed us on Your grace. May we drink deeply of Your refreshing presence. Teach us trust in Your guiding. Call us by name and we will follow. Amen
HYMN #187 More Voices “We Give Our Thanks to You” (multi-lingual 4 verses)
We give our thanks to God, we give our thanks to God,
We give our thanks to God, we give our thanks to God.
We give our thanks to God, we give our thanks to God,
We give our thanks to God, we give our thanks to God.
Re-a-mo- le-bo-ga [x3] mo-di-mo wa ron-na
Nous rendons grace a Dieu [x4]
We give our hearts to you, [x3] because you first loved us.
DISCOVERY CIRCLE
SCRIPTURE READING Jeremiah 23:1 – 4, Psalm 14 p. 735 with Refrain, Luke 15:1 – 10
HYMN #360 Voices United “A Woman and a Coin” verses 1, 2 & 4
A woman and a coin – the coin is lost! How much it means to her, what time and toil,
What part it was to play in her bright dreams!
Am I that treasured coin worth searching for? I’m found, and you rejoice! What love! What love!
A woman and a coin – the coin is lost! How much it means to her, what time and toil,
What part it was to play in her bright dreams!
Am I that treasured coin worth searching for? I’m found, and you rejoice! What love! What love!
A shepherd and a sheep – the sheep is lost! Far from the flock, the one in hundred cries,
Then risking life, the shepherd’s voice and staff!
Am I that treasured sheep worth dying for? I live, and you rejoice! What love! What love!
Then risking life, the shepherd’s voice and staff!
Am I that treasured sheep worth dying for? I live, and you rejoice! What love! What love!
Dear God, you sought us when the world was lost,
you gave your only son at what a cost; your spirit welcomes home the tempest tossed:
Now we can be all you were dreaming of. We’re safe and you rejoice! What love! What love!
you gave your only son at what a cost; your spirit welcomes home the tempest tossed:
Now we can be all you were dreaming of. We’re safe and you rejoice! What love! What love!
MESSAGE
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER
God of love, hear our prayers … stir us to action.
Creator God, You are the source of all life and we thank you for sharing with us, love, laughter, hope, meaning, comfort in sorrow. Teach us to be better stewards of your earth. Lighten our footsteps. Ease our greed that we might live more simply.
God of love, hear our prayers … stir us to action.
Shepherding Christ, who calls us each by name, thank you for coming to look for us. Help us extend your welcome to others, to seek out the lost, to make this a community of faith where all can gather in safety and none are missing. God of love, hear our prayers … stir us to action.
Spirit of goodness and mercy, fill us. We remember those who are hurting, who still struggle in the shadow of deaths’ valley, we pray especially for the Fleming family, and for those who are grieving. We pray for those recovering from COVID or other illness; for those whose way of life is threatened by climate change; for communities and individuals recovering from trauma; for all our relations as we mark a national day of mourning and make plans for a national day of Truth and Reconciliation. Show us ways to reach out with compassion. God of love, hear our prayers … stir us to action.
In Christ’s name we pray. We pray together in the words of our ancestors in faith, saying, Our father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come… for yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen
Creator God, You are the source of all life and we thank you for sharing with us, love, laughter, hope, meaning, comfort in sorrow. Teach us to be better stewards of your earth. Lighten our footsteps. Ease our greed that we might live more simply.
God of love, hear our prayers … stir us to action.
Shepherding Christ, who calls us each by name, thank you for coming to look for us. Help us extend your welcome to others, to seek out the lost, to make this a community of faith where all can gather in safety and none are missing. God of love, hear our prayers … stir us to action.
Spirit of goodness and mercy, fill us. We remember those who are hurting, who still struggle in the shadow of deaths’ valley, we pray especially for the Fleming family, and for those who are grieving. We pray for those recovering from COVID or other illness; for those whose way of life is threatened by climate change; for communities and individuals recovering from trauma; for all our relations as we mark a national day of mourning and make plans for a national day of Truth and Reconciliation. Show us ways to reach out with compassion. God of love, hear our prayers … stir us to action.
In Christ’s name we pray. We pray together in the words of our ancestors in faith, saying, Our father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come… for yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen
MINUTE FOR MISSION “Women for Change Build Climate Resiliency”
HYMN #273 Voices United “The King of Love My Shepherd is”
The King of love my shepherd is, whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am his and he is mine forever.
The King of love my shepherd is, whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am his and he is mine forever.
Where streams of living water flow my ransomed soul he leadeth;
and where the verdant pastures grow with food celestial feedeth.
and where the verdant pastures grow with food celestial feedeth.
Perverse and foolish oft I strayed; but yet in love he sought me,
and on his shoulder gently laid, and home rejoicing brought me.
and on his shoulder gently laid, and home rejoicing brought me.
In death’s dark vale I fear no ill with thee, dear Lord, beside me;
Thy rod and staff my comfort still, thy cross before to guide me.
Thy rod and staff my comfort still, thy cross before to guide me.
Thou spread’st a table in my sign; thy unction grace bestoweth;
And O what transport of delight from thy pure chalice floweth!
And O what transport of delight from thy pure chalice floweth!
And so through all the length of days thy goodness faileth never:
Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise within thy house forever.
Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise within thy house forever.
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the light goes with you.
ON THE WAY
May God the provider of green pastures and quiet waters,
Be the peace in our hearts today.
May Christ who accompanies us into abundant life,
Be the hope in our hearts today.
May the Spirit of truth and knowledge, comforter and friend,
Be the strength in our hearts today.
And the people say … Amen!
May God the provider of green pastures and quiet waters,
Be the peace in our hearts today.
May Christ who accompanies us into abundant life,
Be the hope in our hearts today.
May the Spirit of truth and knowledge, comforter and friend,
Be the strength in our hearts today.
And the people say … Amen!
SENDING FORTH #214 More Voices “May God’s Sheltering Wings”
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
Thank you for worshiping with us!
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – September 11, 2022
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 on Sunday, September 11 beginning with announcements at 10:20 am and worship at 10:30 am. Links are available below.
Facebook https://fb.watch/ftUoS4qGNp/
You-Tube https://youtu.be/Yx64JEpRjL0
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit…
HYMN #30 More Voices “It’s a Song of Praise to the Maker” verses 1 & 4
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
Refrain And by the Spirit you and I can join our voice to the holy cry
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
It’s the chorus of all creation; it’s sung by all living things.
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
(whisper) Listen! (whisper) Listen!
God calls to us in creation… From a tree…? Through a bird?
God calls to us through people… Strangers? Family?
God longs for us to us to hear! How will we listen? What might I hear?
A Word…a name…an invitation… a blessing.
Help us to listen and hear, Holy One. Strengthen our response.
Touch our hearts with gladness,
and let our praise flow in blessing to this world You love.
(whisper) Listen! (whisper) Listen!
God calls to us in creation… From a tree…? Through a bird?
God calls to us through people… Strangers? Family?
God longs for us to us to hear! How will we listen? What might I hear?
A Word…a name…an invitation… a blessing.
Help us to listen and hear, Holy One. Strengthen our response.
Touch our hearts with gladness,
and let our praise flow in blessing to this world You love.
OPENING PRAYER [ with gratitude to Sherry Krause]
God, You created Light and Dark and it is good. Thank You – for the sun that greets each morning; for the stars in the night; for our flashlights, yard lights and candlelight that illuminate our homes. Thank You for the light You send into the world. Open us to receive it anew and share it generously. Amen.
God, You created Light and Dark and it is good. Thank You – for the sun that greets each morning; for the stars in the night; for our flashlights, yard lights and candlelight that illuminate our homes. Thank You for the light You send into the world. Open us to receive it anew and share it generously. Amen.
HYMN #25 All God’s Children Sing “Thank You, God!”
Thank you God, for giving us life. [x3] right where we are!
Thank you God, for giving us life. [x3] right where we are!
Refrain Alleluia, praise our God [x 3] right where we are!
Thank you God, for giving us love [x 3] Refrain
Thank you God for giving us … Thank you God for giving us …
Thank you God for giving us … right where we are! Refrain
Thank you God for giving us … right where we are! Refrain
DISCOVERY CIRCLE
SCRIPTURE READING Genesis 1:1 – 8, 27, 31 and 2:1-3, Psalm 84 p. 800 VU with Refrain
HYMN # 37 More Voices “Each Blade of Grass”
Each blade of grass, ev’ry wing that soars, the waves that sweep across a distant shore,
Make full the circle of God.
Each laughing child, ev’ry gentle eye, a forest lit beneath a moon-bright sky,
Make full the circle of God.
Each blade of grass, ev’ry wing that soars, the waves that sweep across a distant shore,
Make full the circle of God.
Each laughing child, ev’ry gentle eye, a forest lit beneath a moon-bright sky,
Make full the circle of God.
Each silent paw, ev’ry rounded stone, the buzz that echoes from the honey 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 creatures 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 creatures way, all form the beauty of this vast array,
Making full the circle of God.
MESSAGE
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER
Creator God, renew us in Your image.
Creator God, renew us in Your image.
O God you have given us profound visions of new life. Some arose out of chaos or nothingness, some in dry, parched valleys and deserted graveyards. Others were seen from the mountaintop or heard in the steady wash of waves on the shore. Spin a new vision out of the hopes and deep yearnings we carry. Creator 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 are lost, 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. We pray especially for Janet and her family, for the friends and family of Liz Ferguson, for the people of James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon Sk; for those affected by earthquake, forest fires or floods. In the midst of great upheavals help us be part of the goodness.
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 are lost, 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. We pray especially for Janet and her family, for the friends and family of Liz Ferguson, for the people of James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon Sk; for those affected by earthquake, forest fires or floods. In the midst of great upheavals help us be part of the goodness.
Creator 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. 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.
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. 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.
Creator God, renew us in your image.
We ask this in Jesus’ name who taught us to live and to pray together saying Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come…. For Yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
We ask this in Jesus’ name who taught us to live and to pray together saying Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Your names. Your kin-dom come…. For Yours is the kin-dom and the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
MINUTE FOR MISSION “Church with a View ~ Waterton United Church”
HYMN #427 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.
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 out lives portray your word in human form.
Now come with us that we may have your wits about us where we live.
And let out 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 goes with you.
ON THE WAY
You are a new creation, much beloved in God’s eyes.
We receive God’s blessing with joy!
You are a part of God’s good creation.
We will share God’s blessing with respect!
The 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!
You are a new creation, much beloved in God’s eyes.
We receive God’s blessing with joy!
You are a part of God’s good creation.
We will share God’s blessing with respect!
The 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!
SENDING FORTH #214 More Voices “May God’s Sheltering Wings”
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
First United Church, Wetaskiwin – September 4th, 2022
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 on Sunday, September 4th beginning with announcements at 10:20 am and worship at 10:30 am. Links are provided below.
Facebook https://fb.watch/fkGm6s8sR_/
You-Tube https://youtu.be/1EU7jl63zeM
COMING CLOSE TO THE LIGHT You’re invited to take a deep breath and make space for the Spirit…
HYMN #30 More Voices “It’s a Song of Praise to the Maker” verses 1 , 3 & 4
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker, the gray whale sings in the sea.
Refrain And by the Spirit you and I can join our voice to the holy cry
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
And sing, sing, sing to the Maker too.
It’s a hymn of love the Lover; the bumble bee hums along.
It’s a hymn of love to the Lover; the summer breeze joins the song. Refrain
It’s a hymn of love to the Lover; the summer breeze joins the song. Refrain
It’s the chorus of all creation; it’s sung by all living things.
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
It’s the chorus of all creation; a song the universe sings. Refrain
CALL TO WORSHIP
Creator God, You call us to this place and time.
Like clay in Your loving hands, shape us into faithful community.
Crucified Christ you understand our deepest sorrow,
With fierce tenderness, accompany us into healing.
Breath of Life you know and love each one of us more than we can begin to imagine,
To share such love, challenge us!
In our singing, in our praying, in our silence, in our going forth, Your will be done!
Creator God, You call us to this place and time.
Like clay in Your loving hands, shape us into faithful community.
Crucified Christ you understand our deepest sorrow,
With fierce tenderness, accompany us into healing.
Breath of Life you know and love each one of us more than we can begin to imagine,
To share such love, challenge us!
In our singing, in our praying, in our silence, in our going forth, Your will be done!
OPENING PRAYER This prayer is based on Psalm 139 and part of an ancient tradition of praying the scriptures. You can insert your own name/pronouns and/or the name/pronouns of someone else or find someone to pray with and for.
God you have examined ________ and You know them. You know everything she/he does: from far away You understand all their thoughts. You see _____ whether they are working or resting. You know all their actions. Even before she/he speaks, You already know what they will say. You are all around them on every side. You protect ______ with Your power. Your knowledge of _____ is too deep: it is beyond their understanding. Even darkness is not dark for you, and the night is as bright as day. Darkness and light are both alike to you. You created every part of _____. You put ______ in their mother’s womb. When she/he was growing in secret you knew that she/he was there: you saw _____ before she/he was born. O God, how precious are your thoughts toward _____. How many of them there are! If she/he counted them, they would be more than the grains of sand. When _____ awakes, she/he is still with you. Amen.
God you have examined ________ and You know them. You know everything she/he does: from far away You understand all their thoughts. You see _____ whether they are working or resting. You know all their actions. Even before she/he speaks, You already know what they will say. You are all around them on every side. You protect ______ with Your power. Your knowledge of _____ is too deep: it is beyond their understanding. Even darkness is not dark for you, and the night is as bright as day. Darkness and light are both alike to you. You created every part of _____. You put ______ in their mother’s womb. When she/he was growing in secret you knew that she/he was there: you saw _____ before she/he was born. O God, how precious are your thoughts toward _____. How many of them there are! If she/he counted them, they would be more than the grains of sand. When _____ awakes, she/he is still with you. Amen.
HYMN #376 Voices United “Spirit of the Living God”
Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me. [x 2]
Melt me, mould me, fill me use me. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.
Spirit of the living God, move among us all. Make us one in heart and mind, make us one in love.
Humble, caring, selfless, sharing. Spirit of the living God, fill our lives with love!
Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me. [x 2]
Melt me, mould me, fill me use me. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.
Spirit of the living God, move among us all. Make us one in heart and mind, make us one in love.
Humble, caring, selfless, sharing. Spirit of the living God, fill our lives with love!
SCRIPTURE READING Jeremiah 18:1 – 11
MESSAGE
WELCOME TO THE TABLE
We are part of God’s holy family, called to live with respect in God’s good creation. In communion with those who have gone before and those who will come after, we take our place at this table. Here the broken becomes whole, the cup poured out is renewed. By the grace of God we are fed and sent out as living signs of God’s love. This is the table of the Good Shepherd, not of the United Church, all who seek to follow in faith and hope are welcome here.
The Peace of Christ be with you. And also with you.
We are part of God’s holy family, called to live with respect in God’s good creation. In communion with those who have gone before and those who will come after, we take our place at this table. Here the broken becomes whole, the cup poured out is renewed. By the grace of God we are fed and sent out as living signs of God’s love. This is the table of the Good Shepherd, not of the United Church, all who seek to follow in faith and hope are welcome here.
The Peace of Christ be with you. And also with you.
HYMN # 457 Voices United “As We Gather at Your Table”
As we gather at your table, as we listen to your word;
Help us know, O God, your presence; let our hearts and minds be stirred.
Nourish us with sacred story till we claim it as our own;
Teach us through this holy banquet how to make Love’s victory known.
As we gather at your table, as we listen to your word;
Help us know, O God, your presence; let our hearts and minds be stirred.
Nourish us with sacred story till we claim it as our own;
Teach us through this holy banquet how to make Love’s victory known.
Turn our worship into witness in the sacrament of life;
Send us forth to love and serve you, bringing peace where there is strife.
Give us, Christ, your great compassion to forgive as you forgave;
May we still behold your image in the world you died to save.
Send us forth to love and serve you, bringing peace where there is strife.
Give us, Christ, your great compassion to forgive as you forgave;
May we still behold your image in the world you died to save.
Gracious Spirit, help us summon other guests to share that feast
Where triumphant Love will welcome those who had been last and least.
There no more will envy blind us nor will price our peace destroy,
As we join with saints and angels to repeat the sounding joy.
Where triumphant Love will welcome those who had been last and least.
There no more will envy blind us nor will price our peace destroy,
As we join with saints and angels to repeat the sounding joy.
PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING
Joyful, joyful, God You are with us.
Out of the greatness of Creation, You call us each by name.
Our hearts are full of gladness and gratitude.
Joyful, joyful, God You are with us.
Out of the greatness of Creation, You call us each by name.
Our hearts are full of gladness and gratitude.
We welcome You.
God of all our endings and beginnings,
You call us to be part of the great circle of Your family.
In the beginning, You created the earth, the sea and the heavens and all living creatures. And You blessed it all with Your goodness.
Thank you for being with us from the very start!
You made great families of Sarah and Hagar. You gave courage to Moses and Miriam.
You gave loyalty to Ruth and helped David face a giant.
You send prophets and messengers to inspire us with songs and visions.
Even when we forget You, You do not forget us!
So with all creation, we sing praise to You, Holy One! [MV #203]
God of all our endings and beginnings,
You call us to be part of the great circle of Your family.
In the beginning, You created the earth, the sea and the heavens and all living creatures. And You blessed it all with Your goodness.
Thank you for being with us from the very start!
You made great families of Sarah and Hagar. You gave courage to Moses and Miriam.
You gave loyalty to Ruth and helped David face a giant.
You send prophets and messengers to inspire us with songs and visions.
Even when we forget You, You do not forget us!
So with all creation, we sing praise to You, Holy One! [MV #203]
O Holy, holy, holy God, O God of time and space,
All the earth and sea and sky above bear witness to Your grace.
Hosanna in the highest heav’n, Creation sings Your praise.
And blessed is the One who comes and bears your name always!
All the earth and sea and sky above bear witness to Your grace.
Hosanna in the highest heav’n, Creation sings Your praise.
And blessed is the One who comes and bears your name always!
Your love becomes human in Jesus, the one we call Light of the World;
Christ’s light guides and encourages us,
That, together we might bring good news to the poor; Seek justice and resist evil.
We are called to be children of the light:
To weep with those who weep, To dance with the joyful,
To work until all God’s children are free.
Holy Love, You empowered Jesus to choose service and life, in the face of betrayal and suffering.
Sharing in this feast, we find strength to love what Jesus loves.
We remember that Jesus sat at table with his friends, those he knew would betray and abandon him,
And he offered his life to them in the breaking of the bread.
He offered them the cup, that they might share in his suffering and resurrection.
From the cross he offered them new life through forgiveness, even though they did not understand the gift.
By the power of Your Holy Spirit, we become the body of Christ, in the breaking of the bread and sharing the cup.
The gift is ours to receive and to share.
May our lives sing the mystery of faith: [MV #204]
That, together we might bring good news to the poor; Seek justice and resist evil.
We are called to be children of the light:
To weep with those who weep, To dance with the joyful,
To work until all God’s children are free.
Holy Love, You empowered Jesus to choose service and life, in the face of betrayal and suffering.
Sharing in this feast, we find strength to love what Jesus loves.
We remember that Jesus sat at table with his friends, those he knew would betray and abandon him,
And he offered his life to them in the breaking of the bread.
He offered them the cup, that they might share in his suffering and resurrection.
From the cross he offered them new life through forgiveness, even though they did not understand the gift.
By the power of Your Holy Spirit, we become the body of Christ, in the breaking of the bread and sharing the cup.
The gift is ours to receive and to share.
May our lives sing the mystery of faith: [MV #204]
Sing Christ has died and Christ is risen, Christ will come again! [Repeat]
Send Your Holy Spirit upon these elements of grain and vine.
Open us to receive Your gifts of grace and new life.
Fill us with Your love that we might share Christ’s risen life.
Send us forth as living signs of love and justice.
Through Christ, with Christ, and in Christ. In the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory is Yours, God most holy, now and forever. [MV #205]
Amen, amen, O Holy One! Hosanna and Amen! [repeat]
Fill us with Your love that we might share Christ’s risen life.
Send us forth as living signs of love and justice.
Through Christ, with Christ, and in Christ. In the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory is Yours, God most holy, now and forever. [MV #205]
Amen, amen, O Holy One! Hosanna and Amen! [repeat]
SHARING AT TABLE
… These are the gifts of God, for the people of God.
… These are the gifts of God, for the people of God.
Thanks be to God!
Share the feast at the welcome table!
Share the feast at the welcome table!
PRAYER FOR THE JOURNEY & THE LORD’S PRAYER
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 together 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 together in the words Jesus taught us, saying ‘Our Father, who art in heaven… . Amen.
HYMN #27 More Voices “Creator God, You Give us Life”
Creator God You gave us life, your image formed within our souls,
Yet through the mist of time and space, we search for that which makes us whole
Creator God You gave us life, your image formed within our souls,
Yet through the mist of time and space, we search for that which makes us whole
Refrain Through hands that paint majestic skies, and voices chanting melody,
With words that reach beyond the page, we comprehend your mystery.
With words that reach beyond the page, we comprehend your mystery.
In ev’ry flow’r, and ev’ry tree, we see your great diversity,
Yet greater still we see your love, expressed in our humanity. Refrain
Yet greater still we see your love, expressed in our humanity. Refrain
When with our hearts, our hands out minds, we share our gifts with all the world,
Our spirits soar beyond the veil, to touch the very face of God. Refrain
Our spirits soar beyond the veil, to touch the very face of God. Refrain
CHANGING THE LIGHT Now wherever you go, the light goes with you.
ON THE WAY
We do not shape God. God shapes us.
We are the work of God’s hands, the hope of God’s heart.
We offer the Potter our lives, soft and flexible, trusting in the Divine Artist who fashions us.
May our hearts remain open, lest we lose the imprint of the Potter’s fingers.
May the God of strangers and travellers go with us. May the living bread of Christ sustain us.
May the courage of the Holy Spirit be our guide. Amen.
We do not shape God. God shapes us.
We are the work of God’s hands, the hope of God’s heart.
We offer the Potter our lives, soft and flexible, trusting in the Divine Artist who fashions us.
May our hearts remain open, lest we lose the imprint of the Potter’s fingers.
May the God of strangers and travellers go with us. May the living bread of Christ sustain us.
May the courage of the Holy Spirit be our guide. Amen.
SENDING FORTH #214 More Voices “May God’s Sheltering Wings”
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
May God’s sheltering wings, their gathering wings protect you.
May God’s nurturing arms, his cradling arms sustain you,
And hold you in her love, and hold you in her love.
Thank you for making time to nourish your Spirit
Thank you for worshiping with us! God bless, be well and look after each other.