Weekly Bulletins
Sunday January 20, 2019
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
Welcome to WORSHIP!! January 20th, 2019 (Year ‘C’)
SECOND SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY
A Service of Prayer, of Song, of Meditation, and of Sharing of Self With Others.
“There is always some things which we can truly relate to and it has to do with one of the most normal things in your kitchen – your tea kettle. Even though it’s up to its neck in hot water, it continues to sing!!”
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
Welcoming and Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
Leader: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall
abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” (Psalm 91 – KJV)
Introit: MV # 62 “There Is Room for All” (Sung through two times)
Call to Worship:
Leader: In the homes, let labour cease as we prepare ourselves in worship to the One who breathes us.
ALL: In the streets, let there be peace as each of us settles into this moment of worship.
Leader: In this church, in this place of sacredness to many, let music ring as we once again come into community.
ALL: In each heart, let praises sing to the Holy One.
Leader: (based upon John 2: 1-11) All is ready: the couple, the guests, the food, and the wine…the wedding can begin.
ALL: We have gathered to celebrate and to give thanks.
Leader: The gifts are here – each one given in the Spirit’s name.
ALL: We have gathered to celebrate and to give thanks.
Leader: Be we young or old, we are beloved of God.
ALL: We have gathered to celebrate and to give thanks.
Leader: We are here, all of us, in the name of the Triune God. Morning has broken for us so let us sing to the rafters:
*Opening Hymn: VU # 409 “Morning Has Broken”
Opening Prayer (Unison)
Is what each of us is doing our unique, particular calling? In the sacred stillness of our hearts, we hear your assuring answer:
Yes, what you are doing is your calling? Is what each of us is doing less important than what other disciples are doing? In the stillness of our hearts, we hear your assuring answer: No, what you are doing is important! We give you thanks that you invite each of us – whoever we are and with whatever our gifts are – to follow you as the unique and gifted persons we are. We give you thanks that you don’t expect – or want – us to do the same things as the next disciple does. Help us to speak your love, O God, as only we know how to speak. Help us to be about the tasks you call each of us to do as only we know how to do them. We ask that you continue to bless us with the tools each of us requires, so that, always, we will live lives of faithful disciple- ship in your name…Amen.
A Time for All Ages: “Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show“
https://www.bing.com/search?q=Brother+Loves+travelling+Salvation+Show&src=IE-SearchBox&FORM=IESR3A&pc=EUPP_
First Reading: I CORINTHIANS 12: 1-11 Page 933 (Peggy Gibennus)
Different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit…
Gospel Reading: JOHN 2: 1-11 Page 863 (Rev. Jope)
The wedding in Cana…
Message: “Where there is Great Love,
There is Always Miracles!”
Responding
*Hymn: VU # 372 “Though I May Speak”
Offering: “Potter’s Hand,” Darlene Zsheck LUC Choir
*Offertory Doxology:
“The wedding feast is to begin;
You’re all invited, come on in
And find your seat at table spread
And dine with me with wine and bread.”
Prayer of Dedication: (Leader)
Blessing
Sunday’s Reflection of the Heart (Leader)
The Lord’s Prayer (Unison)
*Hymn: VU # 884 “You Shall Go Out With Joy (Isaiah 55)”
*Commissioning (unison): We entered worship, aware of the light of God that shines through the life of Jesus the Christ. And now we depart, carrying that light of truth into the world, to share and to inspire to all whom we meet…Amen.
Benediction
“GO IN EPIPHANY WONDER”
Sunday January 13, 2019
God’s People Together
Welcome to WORSHIP!! January 13th, 2019 (Year ‘C’)
BAPTISM of the LORD SUNDAY
A Service of Prayer, of Song, of Listening, and Possibly Getting Your Feet Wet.
“All authority has been given me both in heaven and on earth; go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of Abba God, and of the Only Begotten, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded you. And know that I am with you always, even until the end of the world.” (Matthew 28: 18b – 20 – The Inclusive Bible (Egalitarian translation)
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude: VU # 652 Be Still, My Soul
Welcoming and Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
Introit: MV #77 Be Still and know (2x)
Call to Worship:
Leader: Have you heard the voice of God speaking to you?......
Have you heard the whisper in the silence?........
God’s voice is strength…hearing it gives life.
ALL: It could be the lapping waves of the ocean on the shore…it could be the gentle rains as they dance upon the earth…it could be the roaring waterfall – these may only be some of the ways in which God speaks to us.
Leader: God’s voice could sound thunderous as giant cedars fall in its power…yet…it is also like a gentle breeze charming both fawns and calves as they dance upon hillsides and fields.
ALL: We can hear God roar in the fiery volcano and we can also listen for God’s voice in the rustling leaves. Listen for God in the trickling of water which slowly slides down the baptismal foreheads.
Leader: Yes…we have heard God speak to us in one or more of these many ways.
ALL: So now we come together to tell God’s glory in worship and in praise. May we hear the voice of God speak to us in this time together as we share in all that we are.
Leader: So with this in mind, let us join together in song:
*Opening Hymn: VU #651 Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
Opening Prayer (Unison)
O Jesus of a new day, angels hold their breath for you, child of the morning, adult of a new dawning, as the Spirit moves anew over the waters of the Jordan. There in the current, there in the stillness, as you meet the shining light reflecting from the surface, our God rejoices over you. Welcome to the new world of peace and of hope…your journey is now to begin.
What will it bring? We don’t know; but the One who was there in the moment you were born will be waiting for you everywhere you go.
You have learned the language of living and of loving, the words to think and to speak, and the deeds to do and just to be is to know God’s loving touch – creation sees its joy fulfilled in you.
What will it bring? We don’t know; but the One who was there in the moment you were born will be waiting for you everywhere you go.
Let us tune our hearts to hear heaven singing and to share our joy with the world. Help us as we worship to reframe all that we are and do in your love…Amen.
A Time for All Ages: “Baptism in Georgia, USA“
Hymn: MV # 92 Like a Rock (2X)
First Reading: ISAIAH 43: 1-7 page 585 (Heather Mayers)
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…
Second Reading: ACTS 8: 14-17 page 892 (Heather Mayers)
Peter and John baptized the converts in Samaria.
Meditation Time: (Rev. Jope)
Gospel Reading: LUKE 3: 15-17, 21-22 page 834 (Rev. Jope)
Jesus is baptized in the river Jordan…
Message: “You Gotta’ Get Wet!”
Responding
*Hymn: MV #144 Like a Healing Stream
Offering: Jesus, Joy of our Desiring - Instrumental
*Offertory Doxology: VU #541
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise God, all creatures high and low;
Give thanks to God in love made known:
Creator, Word and Spirit, One.
Prayer of Dedication: (Unison)
For the gift of creation, the gift of your love, and the gift of the Spirit by which we live, we thank you and give you the fruit of our hands. May your grace be proclaimed by the gifts that we give…Amen
Reading: REV. 21: 1-6 page 1007
Hymn: VU #713 I See a New Heaven (verses 1 & 4)
Hymn: VU #380 She Flies On (verses 1 & 2)
Hymn: VU #375 Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness (verses 3 & 4)
Reading: 1 Peter 1: 15-16 & Introduction
Hymn: VU #672 Take time to be Holy (all 4 verses)
Blessing
Prayers of the People (ending with The Lord’s Prayer) VU #960
*Hymn: VU #352 Lord of the Dance (verses 1 and 5)
*Commissioning (unison): Go out as seekers after truth. Go out as bearers of light. Go out as tellers of Good News: you are loved, you are blessed, and, you are free…Amen.
Benediction (Rev Gerry Scharff)
Hymn: VU# 842 Unto the Hills (verse 4 only)
Sunday January 6, 2019
Welcome to WORSHIP!! January 6th, 2019 (Year ‘C’)
EPIPHANY SUNDAY {Communion Sunday}
A Service of Prayer, of Song, of Listening, and Greeting 2019.
“The power of silence is greatly underestimated.
When you have nothing to say…say nothing.”
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
Welcoming and Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
Introit: VU # 8 “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming”
Call to Worship:
Leader: Rejoice! This is the day that God has made! This is a new day…a new year…a brand new beginning, for each and every one of us.
ALL: We are all blessed with this new time. May we worship together as new people and may our praise and music engage us in this new life in Christ.
Leader: Let us gather to worship the one who has called us into being by offering us the first gift of all – life itself.
ALL: As we sing, pray, meditate, share in silence, and listen to others, may God’s sustaining presence fill us with new meaning and renewed joy. We can then confidently work creatively with God to care for ourselves, each other, and the earth.
Leader: Let us open our eyes and our ears to all that surrounds us, for God is with us, embracing us, loving us, and guiding us.
ALL: So today we begin a new journey in a new year. Today we are open to being inspired by an old story with a treasured message so we are here to worship together and to be in solidarity with each other.
Leader: So with this in mind, let us join together in song:
*Opening Hymn: “Christ, Be Our Light” (First 2 verses)
“Longing for light, we wait in darkness.
Longing for truth, we turn to you.
Make us your own, your holy people,
light for the world to see….
R: Christ be our light! Shine in our hearts.
Shine through the darkness.
Christ be our light! Shine in your church
gathered today.
Longing for peace, our world is troubled.
Longing for hope, many despair.
Your word alone has pow’r to save us.
Make us your living voice.
R: Christ be our light! Shine in our hearts.
Shine through the darkness.
Christ be our light! Shine in your church
gathered today.”
Opening Prayer (Unison)
O Kind God, as we begin this New Year, we ask that you guide us into it with the sense of your loving direction, ever-present Spirit, and unending wisdom. We give thanks for the accomplishments of the past year and eagerly anticipate your gracious work among us in the year ahead. May today mark not only the beginning of the year but a new beginning in a life of faith. Renew us, we pray, for the living of our days. Give to us, we pray, keen sensitivity that we may see where you are at work around us – and courage necessary to enter into that great work. We ask that our lives may be molded into the image of the Christ and that our witness to his name will be clear and bold. And grant that we may walk closer to you at this year’s ending than at its beginning so come, and fill us with wonder and awe during this hour as we share at table, share in song, and share in these words of this prayer…Amen.
A Time for All Ages:
“This Little Light of Mine”
{Chorus} This little light of mine, I’m gonna make it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna make it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna make it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine…Let it shine!
{1)Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine
Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine
Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine…Let it shine!
{Chorus}
{2}All up in my house, I’m gonna let it shine
All up in my house, I’m gonna let it shine
All up in my house, I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine…Let it shine!
{Chorus}
First Reading: ISAIAH 60: 1-6 (Nancy Gillean)
Arise, shine; for your light has come…
Gospel Reading: MATTHEW 2: 1-12 (Rev. Jope)
The visit of the magi…
Message: “God’s Gifts are for Everyone”
Responding
*Hymn: VU # 87 “I Am the Light of the World”
Offering: “How Brightly Beams the Morning Star” -- Instrumental
*Offertory Doxology: (Third verse of VU # 81 “As with Gladness Men of Old”)
“As they offered gifts so rare at the manger crude and bare,
so may we with holy joy, pure and free from sin’s alloy,
all our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to you, our heavenly King” Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Service of the Table
(In Lakeview United Church, we serve communion through intinction…you are offered the bread of peace and in turn, it is dipped into the cup and together, words of blessing are offered to you as the Holy Meal takes place…)
Leader: Lift up your hearts.
ALL: We lift them to our God.
Leader: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
ALL: It is right to give our thanks and our praise.
Leader: God of many names……Therefore, with all your people, in every time and place, we sing the triumphant hymn of your glory.
MV # 203
“O holy, holy, holy God, O God of time and space.
All 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!”
Leader: Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
ALL: Hosanna in the highest!
Leader: And we come to this table….We come here to do the same in memory of Christ.
Breaking of the Bread
Pouring of the Cup
Prayer (ALL): Come, O Spirit of God, move over these signs of life and of celebration, this loaf and this cup, that we may take them as the bread of life and the wine of arrival. As we stand around this table, may we be your people, committed to your kingdom whose name is peace…Amen.
Leader: The gifts of God, for the people of God…Come…for all is ready.
(During communion, we will be singing VU # 74 “What Child Is This?”)
Blessing
Prayers of the People (ending with The Lord’s Prayer) (Rev. Jope)
*Hymn VU # 91 ”The First Nowell” (Verses 1 - 4)
*Commissioning (unison): We entered worship, aware of the light of God that shines through the life of Jesus the Christ. And now we depart, carrying that light of truth into the world, to share and to inspire…Amen.
Benediction “Christ, Be Our Light” (Last 2 verses)
“Longing for light, we wait in darkness.
Longing for truth, we turn to you.
Make us your own, your holy people,
light for the world to see….
R: Christ be our light! Shine in our hearts.
Shine through the darkness.
Christ be our light! Shine in your church
gathered today.
Many the gifts, many the people,
many the hearts that yearn to belong.
Let us be servants to one another,
Signs of your kingdom come.
R: Christ be our light! Shine in our hearts.
Shine through the darkness.
Christ be our light! Shine in your church
gathered today.”
Postlude
(Thank-you to our wonderful ‘servers’ this morning – Roger & Beckie Scroggins, Hank & Judy Klassen and Daryl Sedor)…
“GO IN EPIPHANY WONDER”
7 pm Christmas Eve Service
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
Welcome to this Holy Night!!
A Traditional Christmas Eve Service Telling of the Christmas
Story through Scripture, Song, Prayer & Candlelight.
“Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think on these things, there will be born in us a child of peace and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world.
Gathering (Singing Carols beforehand) *Indicates please rise as you are able
*VU # 59 “Joy to the World” (Verses 1 and 2)
*VU # 43 “Go, Tell It on the Mountain” (All verses)
VU # 47 “Still, Still, Still” (All verses)
Choral Prelude “O Christ-Child Sweet,”
Jacqui Lynn Fidlar (mezzo-soprano)
Lakeview United Church Choir
A Welcoming to Christmas Eve (Rev. Jope Langejans)
*Introit VU # 50 “He Is Born (Il Est ne)” (First two verses)
Lighting of the Christ-Candle:
Leader: Tonight is Christmas Eve and I share this thought with all of you…what if we spent a good part of one day filling our chest cavity with a vision of love at every deep breath?.......knowing the need for the Holy one in our lives and in this sometimes heartbroken world, we light the candle of Christ as a shining symbol that God is with us, born in Jesus this night. (Lighting)
Call to Worship:
Leader: Hush…hush…listen…can you hear it?
ALL: I think we can if we focus on the silence…
Leader: It’s a mother’s tears…a father’s sigh of relief…the hustle and bustle of the night…hush…listen…can you hear it?
ALL: Yes, we believe we can…
Leader: It’s the rhythm of your heart…it’s the blessing of your neighbour…it’s the cry of the newborn child…can you hear it?
ALL: We hear in the silent places and in the songs of praise, in the peace of the night and in the chaos of the morning, in this place, and in all places, we hear God’s love.
Leader: It’s alive! It’s abundant! It’s for you! It’s for all!!
ALL: And now, here we are, on Christmas Eve, together, and witnessing the birth of a new dawning of peace on Earth.
*Opening Hymn: VU # 71 “’Twas in the Moon of Wintertime”
An Opening Prayer for Christmas Eve (Rev. Jope Langejans)
An Affirmation of our Faith for Christmas: (unison)
We believe in God, who put music in the universe, so that the birds and the wind, the animals and the insects, and the very stars in their courses are makers of melody. We believe in the God at the centre of Christmas, whose hope for the world was imagined by seers and foretold by prophets. We believe in Christ, whose message of love and grace enables us to sing from the depths of our being, praising our Creator God. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who touches the strings of our lives the way a master musician touches the strings of a harp, causing us to produce beautiful resonance in the lives of others. We believe in the beauty of the manger, transformed by the coming of Jesus, and in the eligibility of every simple place to be ennobled by his presence. We believe in shepherds, in gold and frankincense and myrrh, in angels filling the sky with music, in nights of wonder and moments of grace. We believe in worship, not because it is reasonable or sensible but because we can’t help it: our heart sings in response to our faith – especially on an evening such as this where God touches the Earth once again with living hope…Amen.
Passing of the Peace of Christmas
*Hymn: VU # 44 “It Came upon the Midnight Clear” (Verses 1 and 4)
Older Testament Passage: ISAIAH 9: 2-7 (Rev. Jope)
Musical Response: “O Holy Night” (Karen Shippey-Heilman, soprano)
First Christmas Passage: LUKE 2: 1-7 (Nancy Gillean)
Second Christmas Passage: LUKE 2: 8-14 (Barb Penhale)
*Hymn: VU # 38 “Angels We Have Heard on High” (verses 1 and 2)
Third Christmas Passage: LUKE 2: 15-20 (Heather Mayers)
Christmas Message Rev. Jope Langejans
*Hymn: VU # 55 “In the Bleak Midwinter” (verses 1 and 2)
Christmas Eve Offering
*Offertory Doxology: VU # 74 “What Child Is This“ (verse 3 only)
Prayer of Dedication: Rev. Jope Langejans
A Christmas Prayer: Rev. Jope Langejans
CANDLELIGHTING
(The Christ candle will be taken from the Advent Wreath and brought down the aisles, lighting the outside candles…please hold your candle up when it is lit and the person beside you can tilt theirs and light their candle and so on until all of the candles are lit…when we’ve transformed the sanctuary into ‘light’ we will sing “Silent Night”)
Hymn VU # 67 ”Silent Night”
*Commissioning (unison): Go back into the world with Christmas in your hearts, and remembering the love God has for you. Give peace, fellowship, and love to your neighbour…..Go into this evening with true Joy in your soul….Merry Christmas!!
*Benediction
*Hymn: VU # 60 “O, Come All Ye Faithful” (Verses 1 and 3)
Postlude
5 pm Christmas Eve Service
God’s People Together LAKEVIEW UNITED CHURCH
KIDZ & KAROLZ CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE
A Service of WONDER and of MYSTERY! December 24th, 2018
(All carols for this service can be found in the Voices United Hymn book or seen on the screen…)
Prelude (Sing-along with your favourite Christmas carols)
VU # 69 “Away in a Manger” (all verses)
VU # 38 “Angels We Have Heard on High” (all verses)
VU # 73 “The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy” (all verses)
A Welcoming to Bethlehem! (Leader)
ALL: This evening we welcome each other in the wonderful Spirit of Christmas Eve and we wait for the coming of the Christ-child into our lives once again. Through song, through story, through togetherness and through sharing in the light, may our hearts become open to the wonder of this season and what it means in all of our lives. The story is old…the story is new. It’s about a child born in a place no one would expect. The people are ready. Are you ready, for now we gather again… to listen…to wonder…to laugh and to love. Let us open ourselves to the mystery of this evening!!
Hymn: VU # 60 “O Come, All Ye Faithful”
(Verse # 1 with Thomas Joiner on trumpet)
Hymn: The Little Drummer Boy
Hearing the Story:
LUKE 2: 1-7 (Sue Spratt)
Hearing the REAL Story (The Little Drummer Boy)
Hymn: VU # 56 “Jesus, Our Brother” (Verse #2)
Hearing the Story:
LUKE 2: 8-14 (Heather Dorin)
Hearing the REAL Story (The Little Drummer Boy)
Hymn: VU # 38 “Angels We Have Heard on High” (Verse #1)
Hearing the Story:
LUKE 2: 15-20 (Nancy Prince)
Hearing the REAL Story (The Little Drummer Boy)
Hymn: VU # 38 “Angels We Have Heard on High” (Verse #2)
Hearing the Story: MATTHEW 2: 1-5a (Jope Langejans)
Hearing the REAL Story (The Little Drummer Boy)
Hymn: “We Three Kings” (Verse #1)
Hymn: VU # 73 “The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy”
Hymn: The Little Drummer Boy
We offer our gifts (Christmas Offering) --- Instrumental
Christmas Eve Prayer (Leader)
Lighting of the Candles in the Advent Wreath and Lighting the Candle of Christ and Sharing in the Light…
Candles for the adults and glow sticks for the younger folk.
VU # 67 “Silent Night” (Verse #1 sung twice)
Benediction
Hymn: VU # 59 “Joy to the World” (Verse #1)
(Thomas Joiner on trumpet)
Merry Christmas!
“We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Good tidings we bring to you and your kin,
Good tidings of Christmas and a Happy New Year!”
“We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!”
Sunday December 23rd, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church Welcome to: the Fourth Sunday of the Advent Season!!
THE SUNDAY OF LOVE
Minister: The Reverend Jope Langejans
THEME: ‘Loving in the Light’ [Communion Sunday]
A Service of Prayer, of Song, of Opening Ourselves to the Advent Stories, and of Living in the Light of Love.
Gathering *Gives you the opportunity to stand if you are able to…
Prelude
Announcements
Welcoming & Lighting the Candle of Love
Leader: Tomorrow evening, as the darkness begins to surround us, in a far-away land the sun begins to rise on a new day as the world rejoices in the birth of the Holy Child. Like children waiting for Christmas morning, we lie awake in our beds. Christmas is nearly upon us and God’s love will shine. Soon, we will open the curtains to welcome the light of day.
(Two purple candles & the pink candle are lit)
Candle-lighter: {Nancy Rose} Today we kindle the Advent candle of Love. We welcome the warmth that lightens the winter chill, the warmth of passionate embrace, the warmth that comes from the heart of God. Come, Holy Stranger, messenger of Love on this Advent journey: welcome us as we welcome you. We receive the light of Love.
Introit: VU #7 “Hope Is a Star” (All four verses)
Call to Worship:
Leader: It is upon this Sunday of Love where all of us need to be mindful that God has called us to be loving people – for God is Love itself and the power of this is unimaginable.
ALL: We come together on this last Sunday of Advent to profess our Love for each other and for our world.
Leader: Come, people of God, come and begin your journey to Bethlehem once more…step by step by step. Let us journey through the gift of these Advent days until, like Mary and Joseph, of necessity and weariness, found their place at the manger.
ALL: We come to make our journey in hope, in trust, in confidence, and in a deep Love for what is real, for we always must remember that God is with us.
Leader: In the ancient desert, in our modern wilderness, God is ever among us showing us the paths of Love.
ALL: So as we worship together on this last Sunday of the Advent season and wait with expectant hearts for the birthing of a new dawn, let us open our hearts to song as the rhythms move us to actions of Love:
*Opening Hymn: VU # 9 “People, Look East”
Prayer of Approach: (Unison)
ALL: O God of Love…O Word made flesh…you came to dwell among us long ago. No matter how dull and lifeless, or how happy and fulfilling our lives may be, there is always need for a deeper awareness of your hopeful presence. There are signs of your coming, signs of your continued presence, everywhere in our lives. Freshen up our vision so that we can recognize your dwelling within us and among us as we move hurriedly in this busy season of the year. May our lives be filled with Love for all those who come our way. May our lives be filled with light as we sometimes journey in darkness. May your gifts of light and Love gift us with hope for our world and may our worship service this morning be open to your in-dwelling Spirit…Amen.
Time for All Ages: “Gold Wrapping Paper”
*Hymn: VU # 73 “The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy”
Engaging MICAH 5: 2-5a (Nancy Gillean)
…Micah’s announcement of who is to come to bring peace.
A Special Dutch Hymn: “Ere Zij God” Niesje Bates
Jochem Langejans
LUKE 1: 57-79 (Rev. Jope)
…And Zechariah’s lips are finally opened.
Message: “Living and Loving in the Light”
Responding
*Hymn: VU # 43 “Go, Tell It on the Mountain”
Offering: “Before the Marvel of This Night,” LUC Choir
*Offertory Doxology: (Tune of VU # 541)
“With Love and light we see quite clear
that nothing’s there for us to fear
for having God as loving guide
will bring us safely to the other side.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Service of the Table (Incorporating VU # 55)
Leader: God be with you.
ALL: And also with you.
Leader: Lift up your hearts.
ALL: We lift them up to God.
Leader: Let us give thanks to God.
ALL: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Leader: God of all times and places, we gather at your table of grace….
We remember the fragility of that revelation, as well as the hope he stirred and imagination he inspired, and we sing:
VU # 55 “In the Bleak Midwinter” Verse #1
Leader: We remember Jesus, the one who blazed a new and risky path….even those who gave him over to death, and we sing:
VU # 55 “In the Bleak Midwinter” Verse #2
Leader: On that night, in the midst of great confusion and fear, Jesus broke bread with friends, saying:
“This is my body, which I give for you and for all. When you do
this, remember me.” (Breaking of the loaf)
With a blessing, he took the cup and offered it to them saying:
“This cup is God’s covenant which is given for all. When you drink this,
remember me.” (Filling of the cup)
VU # 55 “In the Bleak Midwinter” Verse #3
Leader: Come to us, life-giving Spirit of God. Bless us, these gifts, and what we do here, so that we might sing your song of Love for your people and for your world.
All in Prayer: God of all, we pray for your people:
For those who are afraid and oppressed, offer them courage.
For those suffering conflict and fear, may your bring peace.
For those who long for food and water, may they be filled.
For those who long for justice, may it be fulfilled.
We pray also for ourselves and our community:
That those in hospital and in care feel your strength.
That those who are alone and anxious feel you near.
That those who are ill in body and in spirit be comforted.
That our friends and family be blessed by healing and love.
Leader: Hear our prayers, O God,
ALL: and in your mercy, answer.
Leader: We pray these things, trusting in God’s faithfulness revealed:
ALL: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
VU # 55 “In the Bleak Midwinter” Verse #4
Leader: Come, for the table is ready…gifts of God for all of you, the beloved children of God.
(“What Feast of Love?” Sung to the tune of Greensleeves)
Slide Pageant (Hymns sung during Slide Pageant presentation)
Blessing
Prayers of the People: (Our Prayers for the People this morning will be both in English and in French and we will share in the English words and Louise Poudrette will lead in the words in French for those who would also Love to partake.)
English: God of the morning and the evening, as we rush about our days,
French: Dieu de laube comme du crepuscule, du matin au soir nous nous precipitons dans nos journees,
English: often dismissive of your signs…give us pause.
French: afferes et anattentifs aux signes que tu nous donnes: fais en sorte d’interrompre notre course folle.
English: As we orient ourselves to your direction, let us become aware of your silence, let us notice your beauty,
French: En nous orientant deliberement selon tes prescriptions, que s’eleve en nous la conscience de ton salience, de ta beaute,
English: so that we may move in time with you again. In Jesus’ name we pray.
French: afin que tu redeviennes le compagnon de toutes nos heures. Nous t’en prions, au nom de Jesus.
Together: AMEN!
And we now share the words of the timeless prayer which Jesus taught us:
Lord’s Prayer
Commissioning (unison): You may become instruments of Love…each of you…in times of strife. Take up your call and go, spreading the message of Love to all. Be continually reminded that you are the best in the sight of God and the world…Amen.
*Hymn: VU # 1 “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”
(Verses 1 and 2, 6 and 7)
Benediction
Postlude
Sunday December 16th, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
Welcome to: the Third Sunday of the Advent Season!!
THE SUNDAY OF JOY
Minister: The Reverend Jope Langejans
THEME: Receiving ‘Joy’
A Service of Prayer, of Song, of Opening Ourselves to the Advent
Stories, and of Living in the Light of Joy.
Gathering *Gives you the opportunity to stand if you are able to…
Prelude
Announcements
Welcoming & Lighting the Candle of Joy
Leader: As increasing light colours the skies in a chorus of pinks and reds, birds, also, raise their song of greeting for the coming day. Like that coloured sky, these flames remind us of the growing light that announces Jesus’ birth with a chorus of angels’ songs proclaiming a new day. May we pause to hear the twitter of that song and join our voices to the joyful cries of praise at Jesus’ birth.
(Two purple candles are lit)
Candle-lighter: { Kayla and Isabelle } Today we kindle the Advent candle of Joy. We welcome the spark that dances with the Holy Spirit, the spark that fires and inspires our souls, the spark of creativity and wonder. Come, Holy Stranger, evangelist of Joy on this Advent journey: welcome us as we welcome you and receive the light of Joy.
Introit: MV # 4 “All Who Are Thirsty”
Soloist: “All who are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain.
Dip your heart in the stream of life.
Let the pain and the sorrow be washed away
in the waves of his mercy as deep cries out to deep.
ALL: “Child of God…come.
Child of God…come.
Holy child…come.
Holy child…come.”
Soloist: “All who are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain.
Dip your heart in the stream of life.
Let the pain and the sorrow be washed away
in the waves of his mercy as deep cries out to deep.
ALL: “Child of God…come.
Child of God…come.
Holy child…come.
Holy child…come.”
Soloist: “Holy Spirit come….As deep cries come.”
Call to Worship:
Leader: We are a people open to anticipation and we are truly ready for a celebration.
ALL: So we say, ‘Behold, the birth of the Christ child is to be expected.’
Leader: We are a community of faith that remembers the message of hope, peace, joy, and love that God shared with all.
ALL: So we say, ‘Behold, the birth of the Christ child is near.’
Leader: We are a community inspired to live lives of service and of wholeness.
ALL: So we say, ‘Behold, the birth of the Christ child will change who we are
Leader: in this time of worship and beyond.
ALL: We are all pilgrims on a journey to Bethlehem. We move with confidence and with hope, for God is by our side.
Leader: We are believers, on an excursion. We move ahead, knowing that we are not alone.
ALL: We are neighbours, on an expedition. We head into the unknown, confident that God goes with us.
Leader: So come, all of you pilgrims on this birthing journey and let us all worship in unity and raise our voices in song:
*Opening Hymn: VU #7 “Hope Is a Star”
(Verses 1, 2, and 3)
Prayer of Approach: (Unison)
ALL: O God of Joy, you surprised the world that first Christmas when you came as a little child. You could have come as a king on a throne but instead you chose a place where animals were kept and where only the lowest of the low could find refuge. So this morning, we ask that you surprise us once again with some unexpected arrival of your presence. In a day when folks can orbit the earth in space stations, we call upon you to orbit our hearts. In a day when satellites surround the world, we ask that you become a satellite to our needy lives. In a day when thousands of people gather from all nations of the world to turn back the clock of climate change, give us faith for fear, strength for weakness, and victory for defeat. Come and instill a new vision of Joy in all of our hearts and move us in directions of life-giving actions. Be with us this day as we worship together and as we become, once again, people of a deeper Joy…Amen.
Time for All Ages: “Where DO we find Joy?”
*Hymn: VU # 249 “Rejoice in the Lord Always”
(We’ll sing this through as many times as needed.)
Engaging ZEPHANIAH 3: 14-20 (Nancy Gillean)
…A promise of a new day and Israel’s golden age.
PHILIPPIANS 4: 4-7 (Nancy Gillean)
…Rejoice in the Lord always
*Hymn: VU # 12 “She Walked in the Summer (The Visit)”
LUKE 1: 39-56 (Rev. Jope)
…Mary and Elizabeth come together and rejoice
Message: “Receiving Joy Through Anonymous People”
Responding
*Hymn: VU # 23 “Joy Shall Come”
(Sung through two to three times)
Offering: “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” LUC Choir
*Offertory Doxology: (Tune of VU # 541)
“We feel the Joy upon this day;
we know we’ve seen a better way
to open selves to heal our earth
throughout the season of rebirth.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Blessing
Prayers of the People (Meditation Time): (Unison)
ALL: O God of Joy, God of Bethlehem’s baby boy, we bow before you in this season of goodwill to thank you for the goodwill you have shown to us. We do not always deserve the gifts that enrich our lives, yet they continue to come. Teach us to live in sensitivity and awareness, that we may know each one of them and respond with grateful hearts. Forgive us for the anxieties that choke our existence, and help us to be free and happy.
As you have entered our lives through a lowly cattle stall, make us ready to enter our lives of others through the humblest of offices. Take away our false pride and sense of self-importance, that we may live openly toward others and relate to them on the basis of care and compassion. Let the star that led the wise men to the stable shine in our hearts and imaginations this Christmas and lead us to worship him where he may be found: in the hovels of the poor, at the tables of the hungry, at the bedsides of the sick, in the excited faces of little children. Comfort those who mourn, heal those who are ill, and mend the lives of those who are broken as we act as your children in this world. And we now share the words of the timeless prayer which Jesus taught us:
Lord’s Prayer
Commissioning (unison): And now may the brightness of Hope, the brilliance of Peace, and the intensity of Joy be our gifts as we leave this time and place of worship. May we go strength- ened because we have been together in this place and touched by God’s Spirit. May we continue to be a light to the world, that everyone might see the kindness of God…Amen.
*Hymn: MV # 220 “Hope Shines as the Solitary Star”
(We sing Hope, Peace, and Joy)
Benediction
Postlude
Sunday, December 9th, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
Welcome to: the Second Sunday of the Advent Season!!
THE SUNDAY OF PEACE
Minister: The Reverend Jope Langejans
THEME: Breathing In ‘Peace’
A Service of Prayer, of Song, of Opening Ourselves to the Advent
Stories, and of Searching for that which is Peace.
Gathering *Gives you the opportunity to stand if you are able to…
Prelude
VU # 10 “Prepare the Way of the Lord”
“Prepare the way of the Lord! Prepare the way of the Lord!
Make a straight path for him, make a straight path;
Prepare the way of the Lord!”
Announcements
Welcoming & Lighting the Candle of Peace
Leader: In the early hours of every morning, the inky blue of the sky slowly begins to turn purple, heralding that the night is passing and morning comes. As the flame begins to burn, we are reminded of the gentle wind that each dawn brings, pushing us closer to your promised reign. As we wait through the time of Advent for the celebration of Jesus’ birth, may we be drawn together in the Spirit’s peace.
(Second purple candle is lit)
Candle-lighter: {Dakota Hawk} We welcome the glow that causes us to pause, the glow that entices us to gather together, and the glow that shines in hearts of goodwill. Come, Holy Stranger, welcome us as we welcome you as we receive the light of peace.
Introit: MV # 19 “Maranatha” (sung through three times)
*Call to Worship:
Leader: It is upon this Peace Sunday where we are all reminded that God has called us to peace – for God is peace itself. May we have the vision to see that each of us, in some measure, can help to realize these aims. Where there are ignorance and superstition,
ALL: let there be enlightenment and knowledge.
Leader: Where there are prejudice and hatred,
ALL: let there be acceptance and love.
Leader: Where there are fear and suspicion,
ALL: let there be confidence and trust.
Leader: Where there are tyranny and oppression,
ALL: let there be freedom and justice.
Leader: Where there are poverty and disease,
ALL: let there be prosperity and health.
Leader: Where there are strife and discord,
ALL: let there be harmony and peace.
Leader: In this time of worship, may we be firmly rooted in living lives with peaceful purposes. Let us now open ourselves to the gifts of song as we share in our opening hymn:
*Opening Hymn: “Christ Be Our Light”
Prayer of Approach: (Unison)
ALL: O God of Peace…we know that peace is never earned with easy words. Peace and love are always alive in us, but we are not always alive to peace and love. We remember the words which Jesus gave to us, “Peace I leave with you, my own peace I give to you.” May these words invade, flood, and shake the foundations of our hearts and our lives, in this community, in this city, in our daily lives, in our witness to the world; let peace break out. We meet together in worship and may we express our love for one another, our commitment to each other, and point us beyond ourselves to the needs of the world, both locally and abroad. You make peace within us. Let us claim it! You make peace between us. Let us share it! Our approach was and is in peace, and we were established in the Spirit of unity…
Amen.
Time for All Ages: “An Unlikely Messenger”
*Hymn: VU # 272 “Open Your Ears, O Faithful People”
Engaging MALACHI 3: 1-4 (Jean Scott)
A refiner’s fire and a launderer’s soap…
*Hymn: VU # 333 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”
LUKE 1: 26-38 (Rev. Jope)
The angel Gabriel announcing God’s message to Mary…
Message: “Breathing In the Winds of Peace”
Responding
*Hymn: MV # 120 “My Soul Cries Out (Canticle of the Turning)”
Offering: “The Perfect Rose,” J. Leavitt LUC Choir
*Offertory Doxology: (Tune of VU # 541)
“Bless all peacemakers in this place,
and shine our peace to the human race;
for actions which we practice here
will rid our world of all its fear.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Blessing
Prayers of the People (Meditation Time): (Unison)
Leader: Is it worth it…pushing through the crowds at the shopping mall, agonizing over those little gifts that you persistently tell yourself that you need to pick up for that distant cousins?
ALL: Is it worth it?
Leader: The travel on busy highways, the delays at the airport, the constant line-ups wherever you go?
ALL: Is it worth it?
Leader: The competing demands on our time: carol concerts, Christmas pageants, duty visits to family members, hurried reunions with friends?
ALL: Is it worth it?
Leader: The needs of competing charities, the cost to the family budget. The cost to the emotional health of family members?
ALL: is it worth it?
Leader: And then a housebound church member thanks you for a visit, a child displays innocent joy in the Christmas play, a family member in a senior’s residence hugs you as you leave, and the family shares memories around the festive table:
ALL: and in a far-off place and in a time far from our own, a baby stirs, and a mother smiles and looks wistfully into his eyes…it is worthwhile!
(Words of Assurance)
Leader: In the hurry and anxiety of Christmas preparations you go with us, O God, encouraging us to take a break, bringing us peace in the midst of the rush.
ALL: You will settle us down, you will point us to Jesus, your anointed one. You will bring us to the stable to worship and to adore. And, loving God, we are extremely grateful…
Lord’s Prayer
Commissioning (unison): May the candle of peace burn brightly in our hearts, preparing the way for the Christ child. May we be the signs of peace in our world, as we prepare during this season of Advent. And, may we always know that we never go alone for God our Creator, Jesus our Brother, and the Holy Spirit, the winds of Peace, are our constant companions…Amen.
*Hymn: “Soon and Very Soon”
Benediction
Postlude
Sunday December 2, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
Welcome to: the First Sunday of the Advent Season!!
THE SUNDAY OF HOPE [COMMUNION]
Minister: The Reverend Jope Langejans
THEME: The Waters of ‘Hope’
A Service of Prayer, of Song, of Sharing in the Sacrament of Communion, and of Opening Ourselves to the Advent Stories.
Gathering *Gives you the opportunity to stand if you are able to…
Prelude
Announcements
Welcoming: (Leader) As we look toward the night sky, we see the sparkle of stars set against the depth of infinite space. We feel humbled by the vastness of the universe and overwhelmed by what we do not know. Like another star sparkling in the night, we light our first candle to add to the billions of lights all around us. Holy Light, you shine with hope in the challenges of our world. (A purple candle is lit)
Candle-lighter: {Kurt Perkins} Our hope is firmly grounded in God, who holds our lives and who is always at work for our good, and for the good of the world. Hope burns brightly in the December darkness. Hope will be our guide as we journey again…to Bethlehem.
Introit: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” VU # 1 (first verse)
“O come, O come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lowly exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.”
*Call to Worship:
Leader: Look around you, the world is filled with many gifts. May you celebrate the gifts of the people whom you work, serve, and care for. Be open to the gifts of God’s people everywhere.
ALL: God is the source of all gifts.
Leader: Look around you…life is filled with many gifts. May you be blessed by the gifts shared by loved ones with whom you share life and from whom you have learned much. Be open to the love shared in these gifts.
ALL: Christ is the embodiment of God’s love.
Leader: Look around you…each day is filled with many gifts. May you give thanks for the gifts of all those who are a part of The United Church of Canada. Be open to the faith revealed in these gifts.
ALL: The Spirit is alive in these gifts.
Leader: Once more, look around you…God gives joy for one and all.
ALL: We look around us and find joy in abundance to share.
*Opening Hymn: “Herald! Sound the Note of Gladness ” VU # 28
Prayer of Approach: (Unison)
ALL: O Advent God, O God of anticipation, grant us thankful hearts today for our choicest gift, our dearest guest. Let not our souls be such busy inns that have no place for Christ, but quiet places of prayer and praise. Help our minds to be places where holy thoughts pass up and down. May you find in us fit company, a place where the needful cares of life are put away and where a sweet space is kept for you, where adults and children watch and await your coming. And when you come again, may you find all things ready and our church family waiting for no new master, but for one long-known and loved. Even so, come, Lord Jesus, come…Amen.
Time for All Ages: “A Returning King,” (a true story of what had appeared in the Associated Press of January 19, 1999)
*Hymn: “Hope Shines as the Solitary Star” MV # 220
Engaging JEREMIAH 33: 10-11b ; 14-16 (Jude Sampson)
A righteous branch from David’s line….
*Hymn: “Isaiah 40 (Comfort, Comfort My People)” VU # 883
LUKE 1: 5-25 (Rev. Jope)
The beginning story of Zechariah and Elizabeth…
Message: “Swimming in the Waters of Hope”
Responding
*Hymn: “Water Flowing From the Mountains” MV # 87
Offering: “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say” LUC Choir
*Offertory Doxology: (Tune of VU # 541)
“We sit and wait…anticipate,
the coming of a new-born child.
Our hearts are open to receive
the gift from God so meek and mild.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Service of the Table (Communion)
Leader: God be with you.
ALL: And also with you.
Leader: Lift up your hearts.
ALL: We lift them up to God.
Leader: Let us give thanks to God.
ALL: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Leader: In the rich dark night of winter, God makes an astounding promise………
We gather at this table, praying that crooked ways be made straight, that valleys’ peace be lifted up and that mountains’ might brought low so that all God’s people might rejoice together, saying:
ALL: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest!
Blessed is the one that comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest!
Leader: We give thanks for the mystery and the wonder revealed that first night…..
With your people of all times and places, we await with hope the fulfillment of your vision for all creation.
ALL: Bless us, O God, and these your gifts.
Encourage us to share your life and love,
which makes us, and the gifts we share, truly holy.
Leader: Transform us, O God, and your world, and bless your children:
those who feel alone and afraid…
those whose souls and homes are broken by violence…
those who will go hungry, thirsty, and cold tonight…
those who long only to hear that they are loved…
God made known in Jesus Christ,
ALL: hear our prayer.
Leader: We pray these things, trusting in God’s faithfulness revealed:
ALL: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Sharing the Loaf and the Cup)
(Communion Hymn: MV # 200 “You Are My Body”)
{Thank-you to our servers today: Barb Foster, Peggy & Bob Gibennus, Heather Mayers, and Daryl Sedor.}
Blessing
Prayers of the People: (Rev. Jope)
Lord’s Prayer
Commissioning (unison): May the candle of hope burn brightly in our hearts, preparing the way for the new birth. May we be the signs of hope in our world, as we prepare during this season of Advent. And, may we always know that we never go alone for the Holy Trinity are our companions…Amen.
*Hymn: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” VU #1 (verses 2 & 7)
Benediction
Postlude
Sunday November 25, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
Welcome to: SUNDAY WORSHIP!! REIGN of CHRIST SUNDAY!!
Minister: The Reverend Jope Langejans
THEME: Going Into Advent & Christmas,
What Have We Left Undone?
A Service of Prayer, of Song, and of Moving With the Spirit!
And here’s the quote for this Sunday: “Never, ever, mistake knowledge for wisdom… knowledge helps you make a living, wisdom helps you make a life.” (Sandra Carey)
Gathering *Gives you the opportunity to stand if you wish to…
Prelude
Welcoming and Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
Introit: “God Our Protector” MV # 119 (Sung through twice)
*Call to Worship: (Susan Lukey, High River U.C., High River, AB. Gathering,
Pentecost 2 2018, page 49. Used with permission)
Leader: Sunrise, sunset. Winter, spring, summer, fall. The cycle of seasons, the cycle of the sun, wisely guides us in life. So, too, the cycle of the Christian year offers wisdom and guidance, following the path of Jesus, the wisdom of the ages. Advent --
ALL: four weeks to prepare, anticipate, and wonder, with hope and love.
Leader: Christmas --
ALL: 12 days to celebrate the birth of Jesus, “God-with-us.”
Leader: Epiphany --
ALL: several weeks for new insights, new ways of seeing.
Leader: Lent –
ALL: 40 days (not counting Sundays) to reflect upon our lives as followers of the Way and to make course corrections, as needed.
Leader: Easter –
ALL: 40 days of celebrating Jesus’ resurrection and for watching for and welcoming new life in our midst.
Leader: Pentecost –
ALL: one day to welcome the energy of Spirit’s dance into our lives.
Leader: Season of Pentecost –
ALL: ordinary time for learning and living as followers of the Way.
Leader: Season of Creation –
ALL: five weeks to reflect on our relationship with God’s creation.
Leader: Reign of Christ –
ALL: the final day of the church year, a time to name God, as known through Jesus, as the higher power in our lives.
Leader: Today we come to the end of the church year. The cycle is complete. The new Christian year begins tomorrow.
ALL: We come to worship God, the wisdom, the power, the guidance for our lives.
*Opening Hymn: “Yahweh Be Praised” MV # 51 (Sung twice)
Prayer of Approach: (Unison)
ALL: Thank-you, kaleidoscope God, for all of the strong colours which came to us through the season of Pentecost. Thank-you for the blues and the greens: sometimes rippling and sometimes raging, scouring and roaring in gales of the Spirit – winds of change. Thank-you for the reds and the yellows: sparking and blazing, leaping and alighting in tongues of fire – torches of courage. Thank-you for whites and silvers: quieting and consoling, inspiring and soaring in dove of peace – messenger of hope. Thank-you for all of these colours of love and longing, wildness and wisdom, challenge and compassion. So colour our lives by your mighty Spirit, that we change, find courage, radiate hope - for this is thanksgiving more precious than words. Kaleidoscope God, come into this place and move each of us…Amen.
Time for All Ages: “Setting the Stage for Our Advent Journey,
Even Before it Begins.”
*Hymn: “Behold, Behold, I Make All Things New” MV # 115
(Sung through two or three times)
Engaging 2 SAMUEL 23: 1-7 (Bob Gibennus)
David’s last words glorify God….
REVELATION 1: 4b - 8 (Bob Gibennus)
I am the Alpha and the Omega…
*Hymn: “Our Lord, You Stood in Pilate’s Hall”
(Sung to the tune of “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks” (Winchester Old)
See the words up on the screen…)
JOHN 18: 33-37 (Rev. Jope)
Pilate asks Jesus, “Are you King of the Jews?”…
Message: “What Have We Left Undone?”
Responding
*Hymn: “God of the Bible (Fresh as the Morning) MV # 28
Offering: “Jesus, Be the Centre” LUC Choir
*Offertory Doxology: (Tune of VU # 541)
“May we but wait upon love’s touch,
encourage those who may have much
to give so freely from the heart
to offer folks a brand new start.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Blessing
Prayers of the People: Wayne Gordanier
(Interspersed with Paul Rumbolt’s “Be Still”)
“Be still, be still, be still and know that I am God.
I am exalted in the nations and the earth.
Be still, and know that I am God.”
The Sung Lord’s Prayer: VU # 959
Commissioning (unison): The seasons of the church year come and go. The seasons of the calendar year come and go. The seasons of our lives change from one to the next. The call of the gospel remains constant. Jesus’ call to “come and follow me” is spoken each day. May God give us what we need to answer, “Here I am, send me!”…Amen.
*Hymn: “Rejoice, the Lord is King” VU # 213
A Short Message from your Pledgefest Folks…
Benediction
Postlude
Sunday November 18, 2018
26th Sunday after Pentecost November 18th, 2018
Welcome to: SUNDAY WORSHIP!! IT’S A SINGING SUNDAY!!
Minister: The Reverend Jope Langejans
Special Guests: The Corpus Christi Male Chorale (CCMC)
THEME: And What Is Our Rock and Our Foundation?
A Service of Prayer, of Song, and of Moving With the Spirit!
And here’s the quote for this Sunday (sometimes called ‘Children’s Sunday):
” After church one Sunday, the young lad announced that he wanted to become a preacher... “Wonderful,” says Mom… “And what made you decide?”… “Well, since I go to church anyway, I’d rather be standing up and yelling instead of sitting down and listening.”
Gathering *Gives you the opportunity to stand if you wish to…
Prelude
Welcoming and Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
Introit: “The Lord is My Light” (CCMC)
*Call to Worship or Gathering and Coming Together:
Leader: Welcome to each and every one…welcome to this time of worship. What is worship really? What is it meant for?
ALL: To worship is to quicken the conscience by the holiness of God. In our coming together, we are saying firstly that “we believe” and secondly, “that we are willing to act upon our belief.”
Leader: So if worship is a statement of our belief and the actions which are around it, then what is the purpose of worship?
ALL: To worship is to feed the mind with the truth of God. To worship is to purge our imaginations by the beauty of God.
Leader: So then, how are we to put our beliefs into action and how does this work for us as not only a congregation but also as those who may receive?
ALL: To worship is to open our hearts to the love of God and to devote our will to the purpose of God. To worship is to fill out ‘toolbox’ for what we need to mend our broken world – person by person. So come, let us join together in song as we sing one of the timeless hymns of many years ago:
*Opening Hymn: VU # 264 “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”
Sunday’s Reflection of the Heart: (Unison)
ALL: O Holiest One, O God of us all, we open our eyes to find that you have blessed each of us with a new day even before we thought to ask – it’s just here for us to enjoy. We thank-you, O Holy One, for your generous provision. Help us and all those present this morning who have gathered here in Lakeview United Church to discover your less obvious blessings. Give us:
the courage to ask that our church and its mission be
vital and life-giving;
the stamina to search for Christ-like pathways;
the boldness to knock and confess our need of the Holy
Spirits’ power;
And the grace to walk through doors you open for us.
We give thanks, o God, that through Christ we know you both listen and respond. Come into this place of worship and surround us with your presence so that each of us may be a gift to others…Amen.
Time for All Ages: “”
Corpus Christi Male Chorale “ The Animals are Comin’ ”
“ Down By the Riverside ”
Engaging 1 SAMUEL 1: 4-20 (Gwen Jamieson)
Samuel is born to Hannah and Eli….
HEBREWS 10: 11-14 (Gwen Jamieson)
Provoke one another to love and do good deeds…
*Hymn: VU # 635 “All the Way My Saviour Leads Me”
MARK 13: 1-8 (Rev. Jope)
Not one stone of the temple shall be left standing…
Message: “Our Rock and Our Foundation”
Responding
*Hymn: VU # 716 “My Life Flows On”
Offering: (CCMC) “Soon All Will Be Done”
*Offertory Doxology: VU # 541
“Praise God from all blessings flow;
praise God, all creatures high and low;
give thanks to God in love made known:
Creator, Word and Spirit, One.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Blessing
Corpus Christi Male Chorale “It Is Well With My Soul”
Prayers of the People (ending with The Lord’s Prayer) (Rev. Jope)
Commissioning (unison): As we go, may we know the blessing of God in every place we find ourselves.
May we see God’s blessings in everyone we meet.
May we be God’s blessing to everyone we meet.
God is with us. We are not alone. Thanks be to God…Amen.
Choral Benediction (CCMC) “Grace Be Unto You”
Postlude
Deepest thanks from all of us at Lakeview United Church to The Corpus Christi Male Chorale in their sharing of their gift of music!! You are all truly blessings indeed!!
November 11, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
WELCOME TO YOUR TIME OF WORSHIP!!
A SUNDAY OF REMEMBRANCE
Welcome to Your Service of Prayer, Song, and of Continual Blessings.
“Some folks live throughout their lives with only seeing a hopeless end…
I would rather live my complete life through believing that there is an endless hope!”
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
*Processional
*Presentation of Colours
*Laying of the Wreaths
*Last Post (Thomas Joiner – Trumpet)
*Minute of Silence
*Reveille
In Flanders Fields (James Cameron & Lucas Pope)
The Soldier’s Cry / Words of Remembrance
Leader: They shall grow not old, as we who are left grow old…age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them
ALL: We will remember them.
(You Tube, Remembrance Day Videos, Canada)
*O Canada
Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
*Introit: VU # 556 “Would You Bless Our Homes and Families” (Verses 1 and 4)
Call to Worship:
Leader: Through every generation, through times of hope and times of fear,
ALL: through times of war and times of peace,
Leader: through times of loss and times of joy,
ALL: you are God!
Leader: In the first moment of grief,
ALL: in the long, empty nights,
Leader: in the chaos of war, in the search for answers,
ALL: you, God, are with us!
Leader: When we pause in the midst of our busy lives,
ALL: when we remember those who suffered and those who died,
Leader: when we pray to you saying, your kingdom come,”
ALL: you are God!
Leader: Today we wear our poppies as symbols of the right to freedom:
ALL: the crowd responding to the words of Martin Luther King Jr,
“I have a dream…”
Leader: This is the symbol of the desire for justice and a symbol of God’s
love overcoming evil and hatred.
*Hymn: MV # 154 “Deep in Our Hearts”
Morning Prayer & Blessing (Unison):
(With this opening prayer we will be utilizing VU # 278
“In the Quiet Curve of Evening”)
ALL: O God of many names, we pray for peace within ourselves, in our relationships, in our communities, in our world. May we be empowered to do the work of peace wherever we may find ourselves so that you may work through each of us. We give you thanks today for the devotion and courage of all those who have offered military service for this country: for those who have fought for freedom.
(Sing: “In the Quiet Curve of Evening” verse #1 VU # 278)
ALL: Where there is terror or fear, may we help create calmness. Where there is the silence of repression, may we help to give voice. Where there is only violence, may we help to show other ways. With all of our hearts we pray for peace which flows from Holy Love, which permeates all living beings, which permits children to play – open and unafraid and not living with fear or anger.
(Sing: “In the Quiet Curve of Evening” verse #2 VU # 278)
ALL: O Holy Wisdom, you inspire us to remember and live with our memories both of combat and of peace…for we know that peace is generosity, peace is compassion, peace is justice, and peace is extended to all. O God, hear our prayer and help us be the answer.
(Sing: “In the Quiet Curve of Evening” verse #3 VU # 278)
A Time for All Ages: Painting Peace
*Blessing of Each Other as We Share in the Peace of Christ
(Let us all be mindful that it is flu season and a simple Namaste is maybe all which is needed…)
Engaging With the Sacred Text
Older Testament Reading: RUTH 3: 1-5; 4: 13-17 (Barb Penhale)
Ruth marries Boaz and restores the family line…
Gospel Reading: MARK 12: 38-44
(Rev. Jope)
Message: “God’s Strength is Found in Our Weakness”
Hymn: VU # 713 “I See a New Heaven”
Offering: Dona Nobis Pacem (LUC Choir)
*Doxology: (Sung to the tune of VU 217 “All Creatures of Our God and King”)
“We give so we can further peace;
We give so we can mend our Earth;
Hallelujah, Hallelujah.
We give because we care for all
And wait upon a brand new birth.
Sing praises, sing praises,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Closing Meditation: (Rev. Jope)
Lord’s Prayer (Unison)
*Commissioning: We go from here ready to take risks for the sharing of the Good News. We go from here ready to give of ourselves for the
gospel of Christ. We go from here certain that God is with us. We go knowing that we are never alone…Amen!
*Hymn VU # 684 “Make Me a Channel of Your Peace”
*Benediction
*Recessional
Postlude
Deepest thanks to all of the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Ventures, their Leaders and their Parents and Families
for participating in today’s special Remembrance Sunday Service…You are all truly blessings!!
November 4, 2018
GOD’S PEOPLE TOGETHER LAKEVIEW UNITED CHURCH
Welcome to Worship
Leading Worship Today: Bob Gibennus, Licensed Lay Worship Leader
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Music for Gathering
Greeting: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Response: And also with you.
Acknowledging the Territory
Welcome to Lakeview United Church, located near the banks of the Elbow River and the Weaselhead conservation area. We acknowledge with respect the history, spirituality and culture of the Indigenous Peoples for whom this was once the sacred gathering ground of the buffalo and the healing place of the Medicine Tree, the peoples with whom Treaty 7 was signed. We recognize our responsibility, as signatories to that treaty, to live with respect on this land and in peace and friendship with its people.
Welcoming & Announcements
*Gathering Hymn: Come in, Come in and Sit Down VU #395
*Blessing of Each Other as We Share in the Peace of Christ
Call to Worship:
(written by Kate Crawford, Huron Shores United Church, Grand Bend Ont. Gathering, Pentecost 2 2018, page 46. Used with permission)
Leader: People of God, prepare your hearts!
All: We prepare them, as many have done in this place before us.
Leader: People of God, prepare your spirits!
All: We prepare in spirit and become aware of the great communion of saints all around us.
Leader: People of God, prepare to worship!
All: Generation after generation have lifted their voices in worship, and we take our place among them, faithful to the tradition we have inherited, breathing new life into it in our own day, passing it along to those who come after us.
Leader: Let us worship God!
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
*Hymn: In Loving Partnership We Come VU #603
Opening Prayer: For the Communion of Saints VU #719
God of the ages, we praise you for all your servants who have done justice, loved mercy, and walked humbly with their God. We praise you for all who have sought your new creation, and who, by their steadfast faith, have shown their discipleship in Christ Jesus. We praise you for those we have known and loved, and pray that we, with them, may follow in the way of Christ, and, at the last, dwell in your holy city, sharing the inheritance of the saints in light, through your son, our savior, Jesus Christ. Amen
A Time for All Ages: Stained Glass Saints (Peggy Gibennus)
*Hymn: Let There Be Light VU 679
Engaging with the Sacred Text
Matthew 1:2-6a The genealogy of David the son of Abraham
Matthew 5:14-16 You are the light of the world
Reflection: Does Your Light Shine? (Bob Gibennus)
*Hymn: Spirit, Open My Heart MV #79
Responding
Pledgefest
Offering: Blest Are They (words and music by David Haas) LUC Choir
*Doxology “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” VU #541
Prayer of Dedication
Blessing
Lighting candles for the saints
Prayers of the People (and Lord’s Prayer)
Transitioning the light of the Christ Candle
*Commissioning:
And now into God’s world we go, with our faith refreshed and renewed. May we pass the faith of the saints on to our children and their children. Amen
*Sung Benediction “Go Now in Peace” Don Besig and Nancy Price
Music for leaving
October 28, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
Welcome to Worship
Leading Worship Today: Bob Gibennus, Licensed Lay Worship Leader
Music for gathering
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
*We sing together: “Where Two or Three Are Gathered” MV #14
*Blessing of Each Other as We Share in the Peace of Christ
(Let us all be mindful that it is flu season and a simple Namaste is maybe all which is needed…)
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Welcome to Lakeview United Church, located near the banks of the Elbow River and the Weaselhead conservation area.
We acknowledge with respect the history, spirituality and culture of the Indigenous Peoples for whom this was once the sacred gathering ground of the buffalo and the healing place of the Medicine Tree, the peoples with whom Treaty 7 was signed.
We recognize our responsibility, as signatories to that treaty, to live with respect on this land and in peace and friendship with its people.
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
*We sing together: “We Are One” (verses 1,2,4) VU #402
Call to Worship:
Leader: This is the day that God has made.
ALL: We will rejoice and be glad in it!
Leader: If you’ve had a great week, and are ready to begin a new, even better one …you’ve come to the right place.
ALL: We bring our joys and celebrations to God!
Leader: If you’ve had a difficult week, and need comfort and reassurance…you’ve come to the right place.
ALL: We bring our sorrows and brokenness to God!
Leader: If you are worried or concerned about something or someone in your life…you’ve come to the right place.
ALL: We bring our fears and concerns to God!
Leader: This is the day that God has made.
All: Something good will happen to me today!
Praying into the presence of God:
Leader: God of all peoples; We have come to this place to meet you; to walk with you; to be blessed by you; and yet…There are times, God, when we feel like we have to shout to get your attention.
All: Come to my heart, Lord Jesus; (VU 661 V.1 without refrain)
Teach me to walk in your way.
Come to my heart, Lord Jesus;
Come to my heart today.
Leader: There are times, God, when we behave in ways we wish we hadn’t. Help us to be the kind, loving people you created us to be.
All: Fill me with love, Lord Jesus; (VU 661 V.2 without refrain)
Teach me to walk in your way.
Fill me with love, Lord Jesus;
Fill me with love today.
Leader: Remind us, O God, that the Risen Christ lives deep within each of us. May this sacred hour we spend together with you, and each other spark something wonderful in us.
All: Answer my prayer, Lord Jesus; (VU 661 V.3 without refrain)
Teach me to walk in your way.
Answer my prayer, Lord Jesus;
Answer my prayer today.
A Time for All Ages: The Christmas Guest (Peggy Gibennus)
*We sing together: “Spirit of the Living God” VU #376
Engaging with the Sacred Text
JOB 42: 1-6; 10-17
Job Acknowledges God’s Power; Job’s fortunes are restored.
MARK 10: 46-52
The healing of blind Bartimaeus.
Bob Speaks: “Where is God?”
We sing together: “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry” VU #644
Responding
Life and Work of the Church (Announcements)
Gathering our gifts:
*Doxology VU #541 “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”
Prayer of Dedication
Blessing
Prayers of the People (and Lord’s Prayer): (Gwen Jamieson)
Transitioning the light of the Christ Candle (Bob)
*Commissioning:
And now into God’s world we go,
to continue our walk with Christ
in all the places life calls us to be.
May we go in joy and peace.
*Sung Benediction “Go Now in Peace” Don Besig and Nancy Price
Music for leaving
October 21, 2018
God’s People Together Lakeview United Church
WELCOME TO YOUR TIME OF WORSHIP!! October 21st, 2018
A BAPTISMAL SUNDAY IN THE SEASON OF PENTECOST
Welcome to Your Service of Prayer, Song, and of Continual Blessings.
“It’s not what we eat but what we digest which makes us strong; not what we gain but what we save which makes us richer; not what we read but what we remember which makes us learned; and not what we profess but what we practice which gives us integrity.”
(Francis Bacon 1561-1612)
Gathering
*Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
Processional
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that we are worshiping today on the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, as well as in Treaty 7 territory which includes the Siksika, Piikani or Peigan, Kainai or Blood, Tsuut’Ina, and Stoney Nakoda Nations.
Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
*Introit: MV # 12 “Come Touch Our Hearts”
Call to Worship:
Leader: Out of the scramble and busyness, the pains and competing choices of our lives, we all come together on this Sabbath morning to worship. We come to witness living water upon foreheads as the Spirit comes alive.
ALL: We come to give our thanks for this special time as we ground ourselves once more in our faith, once more in our belief that we can, and will, make this world a place of shalom – a place of peace.
Leader: This place, this sanctuary, gives us freedom from the many conflicting messages swirling around us to consider the question, “What must we do to perform your works?”
ALL: So on this Sunday, this day of rest, we are reminded of the faith which we have to build bridges and not walls, to construct meaningful dialogue and not words of hatred.
Leader: So we call upon our God to quiet us in this time together. May we know that in this time of worship we may draw closer to what is truly important in the life which has been so freely given to each of us.
ALL: And once again, we say thank-you for this time to live into our faith, once more in what is truly empowering and truly real.
*Hymn: VU # 333 “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”
Morning Prayer & Blessing (Unison):
Leader: “Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.” (Psalm 81:10)
ALL: Come, O Holy Spirit…help us to replace the busyness of life with a simpler lifestyle, so that we focus on ‘the deeper things’ in life and allow time for others. Nourish our yearning to understand and to appreciate ourselves; keep us from being too self-oriented and unmindful of others’ needs. Fill us with trust in your consoling presence. Calm us when we are anxious and troubled about many things. Help us to have the courage to empty ourselves of everything that does not contribute to the transformation of this world. Continue to create a deep hunger for you within us. Feed us with “the finest wheat” of your joy, your peace, and your love. Often replenish our weary spirits with an enthusiasm and energy that comes from surrendering our lives to you. Be our wisdom as we search for meaning in a world fraught with pain, suffering, hostility, and division. Keep us hungry for you, O Source of Life, so that we will always ache and yearn a bit for you...Amen.
(Joyce Rupp, Out of the Ordinary: Prayers, Poems and Reflections for Every Season)
A Time for All Ages: H.C. Booth Day
*Blessing of Each Other as We Share in the Peace of Christ
(Let us all be mindful that it is flu season and a simple Namaste is maybe all which is needed…)
“All Who Are Thirsty” (Rev. Jope)
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism
THOMAS JOHN HARRISON
IVY BRYNN KATHLEEN STARKO
The New Creed
Baptismal Benediction Hymn: VU # 454 “May God Who Creates You”
Introduction of New Members to Lakeview United Church.
META LYNAS
HEATHER DORIN
Engaging With the Sacred Text
First Reading: JOB 38: 1-7; 34-41 (Heather Dorin)
God’s rebuttal to Job’s complaint…
Second Reading: HEBREWS 5: 1-10 (Heather Dorin)
Christ learned obedience and was made perfect…
Gospel Reading: MARK 10: 35-45 (Rev. Jope)
James and John request to sit on Jesus’ right and left…
Message: “Obedience vs Holy Desire”
Hymn: VU # 560 “O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee”
Offering: “Jesus, Be the Centre” (LUC Choir)
*Doxology: (Sung to the tune of VU 217 “All Creatures of Our God and King”)
“Come to this place with open hearts
And see what God freely imparts;
Hallelujah, Hallelujah.
It’s love and blessing; peace and joy,
That nothing ever can destroy.
Sing praises, sing praises,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Closing Meditation: A Blessing for You (Rev. Jope)
Lord’s Prayer (Unison)
*Commissioning: The Spirit blows us into places unexpected. We go to find those like us, lost and alone, to build a network of loving kindness. God’s grace blesses us and keeps us. We go to proclaim the blessing of the good news, sharing Jesus’ story in word and in deed. May we now go in peace, in love, and in compassion for each other…Amen
*Hymn VU # 264 “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”
*Benediction
Postlude
October 14, 2018
GOD’S PEOPLE TOGETHER Lakeview United Church
Guest Minister: Rev Rob Taylor
Gathering * indicates “Please rise as you are able” Greeting and Welcome Announcements
Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Father’s Son, in truth and love. (2 John 1:3)
Jesus said: “All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him” (Matthew 11:27)
“And the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name.” (John 14:26)
This day as we gather in worship we give glory to God who reveals himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
“Lighting of the Christ Candle”
Officiant: Jesus Christ is the Light of the world.
People: Alight no darkness can extinguish.
Officiant: May his word be a lamp to our feet and a light upon our path.
People: That we may walk before God in the light of life.
( Psalm 56:13)
O Gracious Light, pure brightness of the everlasting Father in heaven, O Jesus Christ, holy and blessed! Now as we come to the rising of the sun, and our eyes behold the dawning brightness, We sing your praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You are worthy at all times to be sung by happy voices, O Son, O Giver of life, and to be glorified through all the worlds.
Officiant: Let us praise the Lord our God.
People: Let God’s name be praised, Alleluia!
Introit: VU #356, “Seek Ye First”
Call to Worship: The Song of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 36. 24-28)
I will take you from the nations, and gather you from every country, and bring you home to your own land. I will pour clean water upon you, purify you from all defilement, and cleanse you from all your idols. A new heart I will give you, and put a fresh spirit within you; I will take from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. I will put my spirit within you, that you walk in my commandments and observe my ways. You shall dwell in the land I promised to your forebears; we shall be God’s people and He will be our God.
*Opening Hymn: VU #341, “Beautiful Saviour”
Gathering Prayer: Almighty God, in our baptism you adopted us for your own. Enliven, we pray, your Spirit within us, that we, being renewed both in body and mind, may worship you in sincerity and truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen
A Time for All Ages:
*Hymn: VU #289, “It Only Takes A Spark”
Blessing of Each Other as We Share the Peace of Christ.
Engaging with the Sacred Texts First Reading: Job 223:1-9, 16-17. Job makes known his his complaint against God!
Second Reading: Hebrews 4:12-16. The word of God is living, active, sharper than a two-edged sword.
Gospel Reading: Mark 14:17-31. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle.
Message: “From the Garden to the City of God” Rev. Rob Taylor
*Hymn: VU “I See a New Heaven”
Offering: “Lord, have mercy” LUC Choir
*Doxology: VU #541, “Praise God from whom all Blessings Flow.”
Prayer of Dedication: God of Life, you provide us these gifts of the earth, these resources of our life and our labour. Receive them, offered in great thanksgiving, and use them to set a table that will heal the whole creation; through Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Light. Amen.
Prayers of the People: Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer.
Our Father…
Hymn: VU #661 “Come to my Heart”
*Closing Prayer Holy and compassionate God, shape us to be humble and courageous. May your words come to life in our serving and in our witness, that we might speak a living voice of healing and justice to all the world, through Jesus Christ, our rock and our redeemer. Amen.
*Hymn: VU #884 “Joy Shall Come.”
*Benediction
Dismissal: Officiant: Go in Peace. Sound the good news. People: Let God’s name be praised, Alleluia
October 7, 2018
God’s People Together
Lakeview United Church
WELCOME TO YOUR TIME OF WORSHIP!! October 7th, 2018
THANKSGIVING SUNDAY/WORLDWIDE COMMUNION
Welcome to Your Service of Prayer, Song, and of Continual Blessings.
“Grace is available for each of us every day – our spiritual daily bread – but we’ve got to remember to ask for it with a grateful heart and not worry about whether there will be enough for tomorrow” (Sarah Ban Breathnach)
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
Processional
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that we are worshiping today on the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, as well as in Treaty 7 territory which includes the Siksika, Piikani or Peigan, Kainai or Blood, Tsuut’Ina, and Stoney Nakoda Nations.
Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
*Introit: VU # 820 “ Psalm 100 – Make a Joyful Noise”
Call to Worship:
Leader: Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth …make the shuttles sound a rhythmic beat as all the earth weaves a shawl.
ALL: Hear the hum of the potter’s wheel, shaping goodness in our hands. Make the sky, the sun, and the moon emerge from the painter’s brush
Leader: Make a poet’s iambic metre tell the stories of life and of faith.
ALL: Worship God with gladness, come into the Holy presence singing, dancing, painting, sculpting, and making poetry.
Leader: Worship God, all the earth, with sounds and shapes of holiness. In front of us this morning, is the table for the world, a feast which will be spread for all people. No one is rich enough to pay for this meal; no one is too poor to join in.
ALL: This is God’s awesome gift to humankind. With joy and thanksgiving we come. May we now open ourselves to holiness, truth, imagination, openness, and devotion as we come at Christ’s call – to remember, to worship, to live, and to give thanks.
*Hymn: VU # 375 “Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness”
Morning Prayer & Blessing (Unison):
ALL: At this sacred season we come with thanksgiving into this holy place remembering that before the mountains were formed you knew us and patterned the swirls on our fingertips and coloured our eyes. God of infinite variety and magnitude, we praise you for life’s seasons of bittersweet and beauty, sunshine and rain, livestock and fowl, orchards and vineyards, feast days and holidays, for our life, for our breath. Creator God, to you we sing songs of thanks-giving, songs of thanks-living. You have blessed us in these days with an abundance beyond our wildest dreams. We celebrate, on this day, the year which has gone by. We remember rain, sun, heat, and cold. We have watched the crops grow and now we give thanks for all that you have provided. Be with us this day, receive our thanksgiving, and hold up for us the visions of your kingdom that we might be forever grateful….Amen.
A Time for All Ages: BRYON ANDERSON
*A Thank-you Hymn: (Sung to the tune of Edelweiss)
“Thank-you God, on this day, for our many good blessings.
Thank-you God, on this day, for our many good friendships.
Glory to you, may you hear our prayer, guide us on forever.
Thank-you God, on this day, for our blessings and friendship.
Bless our friends, bless our homes, come O God and be here.
May our talk glow with peace, bring your love and surround us.
Friendship and peace may they bloom and grow,
bloom and grow forever.
Bless our friends, bless this day, bless our world forever.”
*Blessing of Each Other as We Share in the Peace of Christ
Engaging With the Sacred Text
First Reading: JOEL 2: 21-27
Do not fear, O soil, for God will provide…
Second Reading: PSALM 126
Those who sow in tears reap in joy…
Epistle Reading: I TIMOTHY 2: 1-7 (Rev. Jope)
Offer prayers for everyone…
Message: “How Do We Demonstrate Our Faith –
Especially in Our Giving and Receiving”
Hymn: VU # 232 “Joyful, Joyful We Adore You”
Offering: “Halle, Halle, Halle,” Hal Hopson (LUC Choir) *Doxology: (Sung to the tune of VU 217 “All Creatures of Our God and King”)
“We’ve come to offer gratitude
For friends and life and air and food -
Hallelujah, Hallelujah.
These gifts that come from your own grace
That put a smile upon our face.
Sing praises, sing praises,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Service of the Table
Thanksgiving
Leader: Gracious God, we praise you and give you thanks.
ALL: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Leader: For the love we name Creator God, and all that is. For the one we name Jesus Christ and his message of peace, justice, and inclusiveness that is the realm of God. For the renewing strength and freedom of the Spirit always present on the breath of life.
ALL: We give thanks for the presence of God in the midst of life.
The Celebration
Leader: We remember the stories…
All: how Jesus gathered with friends, strangers, and those who resisted him, to tell them of a re-imagined way of living and being.
Leader: A way that did not conform to the standards of the Roman Empire or any other system of governance, that suppressed people until starvation and deprivation resulted in death.
ALL: In this way, Jesus empowered people then, and empowers us now, to imagine alternatives, and to live them out in new relationships and new communities.
The Loaf and the Cup
Leader: So in our time and in this place, with today’s issues before us, let us continue the tradition: to break bread together.
ALL: We remember what that tradition says, how, at the end of a journey, among friends, gathered round a table…
Leader: Jesus took bread, gave thanks, and broke it, and gave it to his friends:
ALL: “This bread is broken, as my body will be. Eat this bread and become my body, for Love’s sake in a broken world.”
(bread is broken)
Leader: We remember, too, how Jesus poured a cup of wine, offered thanks for it, and gave it to his friends:
ALL: “This wine is poured out, as my life will be. As you drink, give thanks for all I have given.” (the cup is filled)
Leader: Sharing this bread and wine with his friends, Jesus invited them to eat and drink with thanksgiving:
ALL: “Remember all that I have been to you.”
Leader: Bread….the very stuff of life, in which is gathered up warm sun, rich soil, gentle rain, human labour, and knowledge and skill….Grape juice, our vine….fruit of the vine, nurtured, tended, harvested, and pressed out for us to drink.
ALL: May the Spirit of Love within us be a source of healing and consolation. May the Spirit of Love among us strengthen us when we feel weak, warm us when we are cold-hearted, bend us when we are stubborn, move us when we are uncaring, guide us in the way of love. May the Spirit of Love surrounding us shine in all we do….Amen.
Communion
(Bread for the journey, and wine for our arrival)
Hymn during Communion: VU # 466 “Eat This Bread, Drink This Cup”
Closing Prayers of the People: (Rev. Jope)
*Commissioning: Let us leave this time and place of worship remembering God’s goodness to us: a goodness known in Creation, in our relationships, and most especially known in Jesus the Christ. Let us commit ourselves to lives of thanksgiving and thanks-living, remembering that when we are simply grateful, life is simply great! Let us go now, with smiles on our faces, with joy in our hearts, with purpose and in kindness, to be God’s people in all the places life calls us to be.
(Rob Root, Peterborough, Ont. Gathering, Pentecost 2, 2018,
page 44, Used with permission)
*Hymn VU # 236 “Now Thank We All Our God”
*Benediction & Postlude
September 30, 2018
God’s People Together
Lakeview United Church
WELCOME TO YOUR TIME OF WORSHIP!! September 30th, 2018
19th SUNDAY of PENTECOST {CREATION TIME #4}
Welcome to Your Service of Prayer, Song, and of Continual Blessings.
“There are sometimes two kinds of Christians: those who complain because God puts thorns on the roses, and those who praise God for putting roses among the thorns……
…so…which one are you?”
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
Processional
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that we are worshiping today on the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, as well as in Treaty 7 territory which includes the Siksika, Piikani or Peigan, Kainai or Blood, Tsuut’Ina, and Stoney Nakoda Nations.
Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
GENESIS 1: 24 – 2: 4 Rev. Jope
(The Inclusive Bible – The First Egalitarian Translation)
Introit: VU # 293 “We Praise You, Creator” (Les cieux at la terre)
Call to Worship:
Leader: When you sit in your easy chair in your home, whether it’s in your living room or somewhere else, can you hear the sounds around you?...possibly the sounds of an airplane?.... or maybe the whoosh of a car or a truck?...the hammering of nails?...or maybe the ticking of your clock?...
ALL: These are people sounds. These are sounds which we hear every day – day-in and day-out. Sometimes they grate upon our spirits.
Leader: If you listen closely…and ever so closely when you possibly are in a place of quietness…can you hear the sound of the wind…the sound of the breeze?...the rustle of the leaves?... the song of a bird?...possibly the buzz of a fly?...
ALL: These are nature sounds. They are always there but sometimes hidden under the noises that we make with our ever-moving pace of humanity.
Leader: And if we listen even closer than close, can we hear the distant wash of the waves on a shore?...can we hear the grinding of rocks as tectonic plates shift?...can we hear the roar of a glacier as it calves off an iceberg?...or the vibration of light as it travels the cosmos?...
ALL: These are creation sounds. They are sounds of life and of death and sounds of new life, born once again.
Leader: If we listen ---
ALL: we hear creation speaking, we hear creation shouting, we hear creation crying, we hear creation singing.
Leader: When we listen and speak what we hear, when we help others to listen and speak what they hear, when we speak with those who will not listen, and with those not willing to hear –
ALL: we worship God! Alleluia!
*Hymn: VU # 242 “Let All Things Now Living”
Morning Prayer & Blessing (Unison):
ALL: O Creative and Creating God, you are the sea and you are the sky…you are the rock and the tree and the creature – of song and of rhyme and discord and of perfect harmony…and we know, inside of ourselves, that you are breathtaking in what you can do and in what your imagination can create. We call upon you this morning to bless each of us with knowledge in our bodies, our hearts, and our minds, that you are with us in this moment, and in every moment. Would you bless us with joy of all creation, with your desire for its wholeness, with your will for its renewal…in the most wonderful dance of the Spirit, in the name of the Christ who shone your love to the world, we open with these words of prayer to you, the giver of all things…
Amen.
A Time for All Ages:
*Hymn: MV # 42 “Praise God for This Holy Ground”
*Blessing of Each Other as We Share in the Peace of Christ
Engaging With the Sacred Text
First Reading: EXODUS 3: 1-12 (Jean Scott)
Moses being called at the burning bush…
Second Reading: 1 KINGS 19: 9b -12 (Jean Scott)
Finding God in the silence…
Gospel Reading: MATTHEW 6: 24-34 (Rev. Jope)
Stop worrying about what to eat or drink…
Message: “Where We Are at This Moment Is Holy Ground”
Hymn: MV # 174 “Soil of God, You and I” (Holy Ground)
Offering: “Take This Moment” J. Bell / G. Maule (LUC Choir)
*Doxology: (Sung to the tune of VU 217 “All Creatures of Our God and King”)
“Creator God we call to you
To teach us what we need to do
Hallelujah, Hallelujah.
Healing this planet, healing Earth,
And bring about a brand new birth.
Sing praises, sing praises,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Closing Prayers of the People: Jean Scott
*Commissioning: The seasons of the church year come and go. The seasons of the calendar year come and go. The seasons of our lives change from one to the next. The call of the gospel remains constant. Jesus’ call to ‘come, follow me” is spoken each day. May God give us what we need to answer:
“Here I am, send me!”…Amen
*Hymn VU # 296 “This is God’s Wondrous World”
*Benediction
Postlude
September 23, 2018
September 16, 2018
God’s People Together
Lakeview United Church
WELCOME TO YOUR TIME OF WORSHIP!! September 16th, 2018
17th SUNDAY of PENTECOST {CREATION TIME #2}
Welcome to Your Service of Prayer, Song, and of Blessings.
“If you hear that someone is speaking ill of you, instead of trying to defend yourself, you should say: “They obviously don’t know me very well, since there are so many other faults that they could have mentioned!” (Epictetus)
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
Processional
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that we are worshiping today on the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, as well as in Treaty 7 territory which includes the Siksika, Pikani, Kainai, Tsuut’ina, and Stoney Nakoda Nations.
Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
Introit: MV # 7 “Gather Us In” (piano only as Genesis 1:1-13 is read)
Call to Worship:
Leader: It is time for each of us to listen…to listen very closely; to listen with intention and openness to the Spirit to guide us…
ALL: We sit and listen to the hum of the Earth… (Pause)
Leader: We sit quietly and listen to the murmuring of the swaying grass… (Pause)
ALL: We quietly sit and listen to the rustling of the trees, to the buzzing of the insects, to the song of the sparrow… (Pause)
Leader: Do you hear it?...listen closely…listen closely as the melodies of creation sing…shout…creak…and whisper around us.
ALL: We are listening closely as our hearts sing within us…we are listening as all creation yearns for nurture.
Leader: But do you hear it?...as we take these moments to listen, we remember God’s call of creation: “Let there be!”
ALL: And so, in this time of gathering, let there be honest reflection. Let there be radical discernment. Let there be creative stirring. Let there be space for connection. Let there be nurture and care.
Leader: Come!...all of you!...come and worship with one another and with all of creation!
*Hymn: VU # 278 “In the Quiet Curve of Evening”
Morning Prayer & Blessing (Unison):
(Taken from the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth)
ALL: O Creating God, we know that there is beauty in the forms of creation and we need to voice our deepest thanks and offer our own blessings:
…on smelling fragrant woods or bark, we give thanks and blessings to you who created these fragrant woods.
…on smelling odorous fruits, we give thanks and blessings to you who gives a goodly scent to fruits.
…on smelling fragrant spices, blessings, O God, who created diverse kinds of spices.
…on smelling fragrant oils, we give thanks and blessings to you who created fragrant oil.
…on seeing lightning, falling stars, mountain peaks, great deserts, thank-you, for these creations.
…on hearing thunder, our blessings to you, o God, whose strength and might always fills the world.
…at the sight of the sea, our gratitude for creating such a vast expanse of waters.
…on seeing beautiful trees or animals, blessed are you, our Creator God, who has such as these in the world.
…and on seeing the rainbow…thank-you, O God, for remembering the covenant, faithful to this covenant, and keeping promises…Amen.
A Time for All Ages: “Our Population Clock” https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=youtube+humanity&&view=detail&mid=BD74D504B6BD3204819FBD74D504B6BD3204819F&&FORM=VRDGAR
*Hymn: MV # 135 “Called by Earth and Sky”
*Passing of the Peace of Christ to Each Other
Engaging With the Sacred Text
First Reading: PSALM 104: 1-9 (VU # 826) (Barb Penhale)
God’s care over all what has been created…
REFRAIN: “Bless, O my soul, The Almighty,
who rules all creation.”
Reader: Praise God, O my soul.
ALL: Eternal God, you are great indeed.
Reader: You clothe yourself with light like a garment.
ALL: You spread the heavens like a tent; you lay out the beams
of your dwelling on the waters above.
Reader: You make the clouds your chariot,
and ride on the wings of the wind.
ALL: You make the winds your messengers,
and flames of fire your servants.
Reader: You fix the earth on its foundations,
so that it can never tremble.
ALL: You cover the earth with the ocean as with a cloak.
REFRAIN: “Bless, O my soul, The Almighty,
who rules all creation.”
Reader: When the waters covered the mountains,
they fled at your rebuke;
ALL: at the sound of your thunder, they took flight.
Reader: They flowed over the mountains, ran down the valleys to the
place you had appointed for them.
ALL: There you set limits not to be passed, that they might not
again cover the earth.
REFRAIN: “Bless, O my soul, The Almighty,
who rules all creation.”
Second Reading: GENESIS 9: 8-9, 12-13 (Barb Penhale)
God’s setting of the rainbow in the sky…
Message: “The Connection Between
Creation ~~~~ Humanity”
Hymn: VU # 282 “Long before the Night”
Offering: “Abundant Life” (Ruth Duck, Ron Klusmeier)
*Doxology: (Sung to the tune of VU # 541 “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”)
“Creation is for us to hold;
not to be squandered or be sold
so future children may not see
what God envisioned it to be.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Closing Meditation: (Unison)
ALL: O God, whose power is great beyond our knowing, whose love runs deeper than our hurtful actions of neglect, who holds all of creation in your tender embrace:
let us love, not only in words or speech, but in truth and
in action,
let us be stewards of deepened relationships and
interactions,
and the givers of life to creation that surrounds us.
We come to you in this quiet place seeking your reassurance and your hope. Come and cradle us in your arms of love. As we inhale, breathe your life into our hearts. As we exhale, help us to let go of heavy expectations and anxieties. Help us to feel your love as close to us as the breath we breathe. Today, o God, we admit to the places where we fall short – where we are not able to give enough, do enough, and nurture enough. Inspire in us a longing to be better stewards and help us to live out our
covenant commitment. Allow the dreams and hopes that we have – for ourselves, for our communities, and for all of creation – to sprout forth with energy and new life…and now, we share in the prayers of the people and then share in words of The
Lord’s Prayer:
Prayers of the People
The Lord’s Prayer
*Commissioning (unison): Go from this place, letting your anxious worries cease. May the lilies of the field and the birds of the air inspire you to see God in all you do…Amen
*Hymn VU # 312 “Praise with Joy the World’s Creator”
*Benediction (Rev. Jope)
May the blessing of Jesus, who announced God’s righteousness, of the Creator, who fills Earth with beauty, and of the Spirit, who nurtures awe, bless, inspire, and empower each of you…Amen.
Postlude
September 9, 2018
God’s People Together
Lakeview United Church
WELCOME TO YOUR TIME OF WORSHIP!! September 9th, 2018
16th SUNDAY of PENTECOST {CREATION TIME #1}
Welcome to Your Service of Prayer, Song, and of Blessings.
“By three methods we may learn wisdom: first – by reflection, which is noblest; second – by imitation, which is the easiest; and third – by experience, which is by far, the bitterest” (Confucious)
Gathering *Indicates please rise as you are able
Prelude
Processional
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that we are worshiping today on the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, as well as in Treaty 7 territory which includes the Siksika, Pikani, Kainai, Tsuut’ina, and Stoney Nakoda Nations.
Announcements
Lighting of the Candle of Christ
Introit: MV # 130 “Rise Up”
Call to Worship:
Leader: As the sun endures, and the moon glows,
ALL: changing days speak of God’s glory.
Leader: As the rainbow arcs through grey clouds,
ALL: colours speak of God’s glory.
Leader: As Earth provides sustaining food,
ALL: harvest speaks of God’s glory.
Leader: As people gather to praise God’s name,
ALL: we speak of God’s glory.
Leader: This is a place of refuge, a place where we can be together within the Spirit.
ALL: We pause briefly to refresh our souls so that we may refresh the soul of Creation.
Leader: Let us gather to call ourselves into mindfulness of the sacred gift of time: worship time and Sabbath time. Let us open with song as we share in the words of ‘Long before Time’…
*Hymn: VU # 248 “When Long before Time” (all 6 verses)
Opening Prayer of Approach (Unison):
ALL: O Creative and Creating God, creation sings of your glory and speaks of your goodness:
from picturesque countryside to reaching skyscrapers,
from untamed wild lands to cookie-cutter suburbs,
from spacious ocean beaches to crowded city streets:
wherever we are…there creation speaks.
Forgive us when we fail to join creation in her continual song of praise. Forgive us when, overcome with pride, we forget that creation is not ours to shape and mold; it is yours, and we are a part of it. Forgive us when we abuse, defile, and strike Earth with our greed, selfishness, and ambition. Forgive us when we attack what we are charged to love, and fail to face the stinging reality of our actions and thus sow hardship for future generations to reap. Forgive us, O God, for all the ways we have failed to sing your praises with all creation…Amen.
Leader: God’s grace is a soothing and healing balm that we can never earn or deserve. It relieves pains, heals stings, and frees us to sing God’s praises joyfully. Receive the blessed assurance of God’s grace! Amen.
A Time for All Ages: Creation and its Glory! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_38JDGnr0vA
*Hymn: VU # 289 “It Only Takes a Spark” (Pass It On)
*Passing of the Peace of Christ to Each Other
Engaging With the Sacred Text
First Reading: GENESIS 11: 1-9 (Heather Mayers)
The building of the Tower of Babel and different languages…
Second Reading: PSALM 148 (Heather Mayers)
The Psalm of many praises to where praises need to go…
Gospel Reading: MARK 7: 24-30 (Rev. Jope)
The Syrophoenician woman and her daughter… Message: “Caring for Creation Isn’t New –
Environmentalism Is”
Hymn: VU # 360 “A Woman and a Coin – The Coin Is Lost”
Offering: “Christ in Me,” (John Chisum, Nancy Gordon, George T Searcy)
*Doxology: (Sung to the tune of VU # 541 “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”)
“This place we live on is our Earth
It’s been our home since day of birth;
We need to hold it in respect
And not to fall into neglect.”
Prayer of Dedication (Rev. Jope)
Closing Meditation: (Unison – We will be utilizing
MV # 75 “Veni Sancte Spiritus” )
“Holy Spirit, come to us, kindle in us the fire of your love.
Holy Spirit, come to us. Holy Spirit, come to us.”
ALL: God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, Holy Mystery, in the gift of creation you speak for us. The weed protruding through the sidewalk crack speaks of your grace, that with you the unexpected should be expected, the impossible made possible. We pray for those who are without hope…
“Holy Spirit, come to us, kindle in us the fire of your love.
Holy Spirit, come to us. Holy Spirit, come to us.”
ALL: May we hear you speak in the disobedient wildflower, a reminder that your tenacious hope grows in seemingly hopeless places. The plastic bag blowing in the wind speaks of your word to the lonely. We pray for those who feel discarded and rejected by society…
“Holy Spirit, come to us, kindle in us the fire of your love.
Holy Spirit, come to us. Holy Spirit, come to us.”
ALL: May we hear you speak in the gentle wind that lifts up and carries what others have long since forgotten. The horrific powers of the sea speak of your majesty and mystery: we cannot control the waters which build up and tear down. We pray for the many gifts of nature that we cannot understand and we pray for those who have been affected by natural disasters…
“Holy Spirit, come to us, kindle in us the fire of your love.
Holy Spirit, come to us. Holy Spirit, come to us.”
ALL: May we hear you speak in the awesomeness of the elements as we ask for our protection. The colours dancing at the break of dawn speak of your beauty and our gratitude, that we are enhanced and transformed by the diversity of colours that touch every part of our lives. We give thanks for this church community and ask that you bless the individual gifts that you have generously scattered within each of us. The beauty of creation gives voice to these and all of our prayers as we sing together:
VU # 959 ‘The Lord’s Prayer’…
*Commissioning (unison): And now we leave this time and place to continue our journey as God’s people: surrounded by the wonders of God’s creation, accompanied by the One who shared our existence, enfolded in the purposeful caring of the Spirit, to be God’s faithful people in all the places life calls us to be…Amen
*Hymn VU # 249 “Rejoice in the Lord Always”
(Sung three times through…)
*Benediction (Rev. Jope)
Postlude
Thank you to the Jamieson’s for the PPT and bulletin photo submission