SUNDAY ORDER OF WORSHIP
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Honoring Women
5-09-2021
PRELUDE
WELCOME
CALL TO WORSHIP
We gather to worship as people of Easter,
people who know Life is stronger than death.
We gather to worship as children of God,
children loved and claimed by the risen Lord.
We gather to worship as the body of Christ,
the church called out for service in the world.
Easter people, Christ is risen!
Christ is risen indeed!
HYMN #403 “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”
What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Are we weak and heavy laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge--
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He'll take and shield thee;
Thou wilt find a solace there.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you have prepared for those who love you joys beyond understanding. Pour into our hearts such love for you, that, loving you above all else, we may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
CALL TO CONFESSION
The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,
interceding with sighs too deep for words.
Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin.
PRAYER OF CONFESSION
O God, whose love knows no bounds, forgive us when we fail to reflect your loving kindness. When we turn away from the goodness of your love, call us back with the tender voice of a caring friend. When we stumble over the gift of your grace, lift us up with the strong arms of a loving parent. When we are certain that we are alone in the chaos of this world, shower us with peace, the gentle breeze of an evening rain. When we cannot feel the flowing of your peace, show us your love with the hands and feet of Christ, your love incarnate. Forgive us, risen Christ, of all the ways we fall short, and teach us to be agents of resurrection in the world. (Silent reflection)
ASSURANCE OF PARDON/DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!
Thanks be to God.
GLORIA PATRI (please stand)
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen, Amen.
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
God Most High, reigning in glory, send down your Spirit of wisdom to shine in your heavenly Word, so that we may worship you with joy continually blessing your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.
Ezekiel 37:4
SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 98 (read responsively)
1 O sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things.
His right hand and his holy arm
have gotten him victory.
2 The Lord has made known his victory;
he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations.
3 He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness
to the house of Israel.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the victory of our God.
4 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
5 Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre,
with the lyre and the sound of melody.
6 With trumpets and the sound of the horn
make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.
7 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
the world and those who live in it.
8 Let the floods clap their hands;
let the hills sing together for joy
9 at the presence of the Lord, for he is coming
to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with righteousness,
and the peoples with equity.
1 John 5:1-6
1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the parent loves the child. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. 3 For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, 4 for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith. 5 Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
6 This is the one who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not with the water only but with the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one that testifies, for the Spirit is the truth.
John 15:9-17
9 As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.
12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. 16 You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. 17 I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.
This is the good news which we have received,
in which we stand, and by which we are saved.
Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2
REFLECTION: “Friendship in Abiding” Rev. Norlita Kaul
AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
New life in Christ takes shape in a community in which people know that God loves and accepts them in spite of what they are. They therefore accept themselves and love others, knowing that no one has any ground on which to stand, except God’s grace.
Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.22
MINUTE FOR MISSIONS
HONORING WOMEN WITH A BLESSING
PRESENTATION OF CONFIRMATION BIBLE
INVITATION TO OFFERING
There is only one Lord and God from whom all things come and for whom we live. Let us offer our lives to the Lord.
SPECIAL MUSIC "Who Am I" by Donna Flint, Soloist & Mary Ermel, pianist
DOXOLOGY (please stand)
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Victorious Lord, we offer these gifts to be used in celebration of your steadfast love. We give joyfully so others may join our unending common voice of praise. Let all people sing a new song of thanksgiving that is not merely noise but is a faithful celebration of your love and grace. Amen.
Psalm 98 (David S. Bell)
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
OUR TIME TO PRAY:
Continued Health Requests:
-Darwin L (Jeanne’s husband) and Jeanne as caregiver
-Carrie VB
-Gene G
-Bob & Jan J
-Sharon W
-Andrew L
-LaVonne B
-Jan B
-Judith (Judy & Mike’s sister-in-law)
-Brent (nephew of Roger & Marvis J)
-Bev (Teri B’s mother)
-Harry (Bonnie S.’s father)
-Jack (Lee’s father)
-Kara (Richard & Dolores’ daughter)
-Rocky (Judy & Mike’s nephew)
-Gwen M (friend of Elizabeth)
-Riley (son of Rev. Norlita’s friend)
This Week’s Prayer Families: Dawn G, Scott & Jennifer H & family Skylar, Saige, and Ramsie
For our new confirmand’s journey: Gayle F is starting her confirmation journey. Donna F will be her mentor.
Our homebound or in care members: Barb B, Delores K, Nona M, Rose P, Cliff R, Stephen & Carrie V B, Dee W. (Please reach out and call)
Those who mourn:
The Brown family (Judy M’s relative). We continue to pray for the Salonen, Jenner, Fishback, Kennedy N., Watson, Peterson, Larson and Kaul/Robinson families and for all who have lost loved ones.
Prayers for Second Presbyterian in Flandreau, Pastor Ann Spitzenberger; our Presbytery of South Dakota; the PCUSA (leaders and staff); and our own Session, Deacons, members and friends, and Brookings United Church of Christ staff, church council, and members. We continue to pray for Christ’s church universal and at work here in Brookings.
Victims and families affected by the Coronavirus. God grant them all comfort and healing. Prayers for all hospital workers, especially doctors and nurses, and first responders across the world and their families.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
HYMN #239 “How Happy is Each Child of God”
How happy is each child of God
Who walks within God’s ways!
You’ll reap good fruit from honest work,
And joy in life always.
How happy is the earthly home
That honors God above!
The Lord shall send all help and grace
To bless your home with love.
May God’s great peace, good health, and joy
Forever fill your home;
May you and your descendants know
Forever God’s shalom!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The plant is in loving memory of Jean Bartling for Mother’s Day and her birthday from her family. Blessed be her memory.
ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICES: Worship services are now being held in the sanctuary and online via Zoom.
SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 AM. May 23rd is the last day and will resume in September.
TUESDAY MORNING COFFEE GROUP will be meeting at Perkins at 9:30ish.
THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY will be meeting at 9:30 a.m. in the church basement.
Birthdays and Anniversaries will be celebrated the first Sunday of the month.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for May: Bonnie F, John P, Kay N, Bruce W, Trent B, Skylar H, Carolyn M, Jennifer H, Cliff R, Saige H, Adam Y, Carolyn C, Lori W
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY for May: Scott & Jennifer H, Dean & Sharon H, Dave & Lucy B, Bruce & Lori W
Lord, for these joys, we give thee thanks.
BENEDICTION
May the Lord watch between me and thee while we are absent, one from the other. Amen. (Mizpah Benediction)
POSTLUDE
Thanks to everyone who helped out with our worship this morning. It takes a village to raise a child the saying says. It takes a village to do worship virtually, our new saying during these days of pandemic. Stay safe and well. Pray often. Love always! Blessings for your week!
Sources: Call to Worship Lectionary Aids for 2020-2021 Year A Vo.54.1 PCUSA; Copyright © 2019 David S. Bell. Reprinted with permission from www.DavidSBell.org. and from the Book of Common Worship, Westminster John Knox Press, Louisville KY, 1993; pg.331
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Honoring Women
5-09-2021
PRELUDE
WELCOME
CALL TO WORSHIP
We gather to worship as people of Easter,
people who know Life is stronger than death.
We gather to worship as children of God,
children loved and claimed by the risen Lord.
We gather to worship as the body of Christ,
the church called out for service in the world.
Easter people, Christ is risen!
Christ is risen indeed!
HYMN #403 “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”
What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Are we weak and heavy laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge--
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He'll take and shield thee;
Thou wilt find a solace there.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God, you have prepared for those who love you joys beyond understanding. Pour into our hearts such love for you, that, loving you above all else, we may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
CALL TO CONFESSION
The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,
interceding with sighs too deep for words.
Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin.
PRAYER OF CONFESSION
O God, whose love knows no bounds, forgive us when we fail to reflect your loving kindness. When we turn away from the goodness of your love, call us back with the tender voice of a caring friend. When we stumble over the gift of your grace, lift us up with the strong arms of a loving parent. When we are certain that we are alone in the chaos of this world, shower us with peace, the gentle breeze of an evening rain. When we cannot feel the flowing of your peace, show us your love with the hands and feet of Christ, your love incarnate. Forgive us, risen Christ, of all the ways we fall short, and teach us to be agents of resurrection in the world. (Silent reflection)
ASSURANCE OF PARDON/DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!
Thanks be to God.
GLORIA PATRI (please stand)
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen, Amen.
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
God Most High, reigning in glory, send down your Spirit of wisdom to shine in your heavenly Word, so that we may worship you with joy continually blessing your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.
Ezekiel 37:4
SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 98 (read responsively)
1 O sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things.
His right hand and his holy arm
have gotten him victory.
2 The Lord has made known his victory;
he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations.
3 He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness
to the house of Israel.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the victory of our God.
4 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
5 Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre,
with the lyre and the sound of melody.
6 With trumpets and the sound of the horn
make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.
7 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
the world and those who live in it.
8 Let the floods clap their hands;
let the hills sing together for joy
9 at the presence of the Lord, for he is coming
to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with righteousness,
and the peoples with equity.
1 John 5:1-6
1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the parent loves the child. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. 3 For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, 4 for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith. 5 Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
6 This is the one who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not with the water only but with the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one that testifies, for the Spirit is the truth.
John 15:9-17
9 As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.
12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. 16 You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. 17 I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.
This is the good news which we have received,
in which we stand, and by which we are saved.
Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2
REFLECTION: “Friendship in Abiding” Rev. Norlita Kaul
AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
New life in Christ takes shape in a community in which people know that God loves and accepts them in spite of what they are. They therefore accept themselves and love others, knowing that no one has any ground on which to stand, except God’s grace.
Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.22
MINUTE FOR MISSIONS
HONORING WOMEN WITH A BLESSING
PRESENTATION OF CONFIRMATION BIBLE
INVITATION TO OFFERING
There is only one Lord and God from whom all things come and for whom we live. Let us offer our lives to the Lord.
SPECIAL MUSIC "Who Am I" by Donna Flint, Soloist & Mary Ermel, pianist
DOXOLOGY (please stand)
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Victorious Lord, we offer these gifts to be used in celebration of your steadfast love. We give joyfully so others may join our unending common voice of praise. Let all people sing a new song of thanksgiving that is not merely noise but is a faithful celebration of your love and grace. Amen.
Psalm 98 (David S. Bell)
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
OUR TIME TO PRAY:
Continued Health Requests:
-Darwin L (Jeanne’s husband) and Jeanne as caregiver
-Carrie VB
-Gene G
-Bob & Jan J
-Sharon W
-Andrew L
-LaVonne B
-Jan B
-Judith (Judy & Mike’s sister-in-law)
-Brent (nephew of Roger & Marvis J)
-Bev (Teri B’s mother)
-Harry (Bonnie S.’s father)
-Jack (Lee’s father)
-Kara (Richard & Dolores’ daughter)
-Rocky (Judy & Mike’s nephew)
-Gwen M (friend of Elizabeth)
-Riley (son of Rev. Norlita’s friend)
This Week’s Prayer Families: Dawn G, Scott & Jennifer H & family Skylar, Saige, and Ramsie
For our new confirmand’s journey: Gayle F is starting her confirmation journey. Donna F will be her mentor.
Our homebound or in care members: Barb B, Delores K, Nona M, Rose P, Cliff R, Stephen & Carrie V B, Dee W. (Please reach out and call)
Those who mourn:
The Brown family (Judy M’s relative). We continue to pray for the Salonen, Jenner, Fishback, Kennedy N., Watson, Peterson, Larson and Kaul/Robinson families and for all who have lost loved ones.
Prayers for Second Presbyterian in Flandreau, Pastor Ann Spitzenberger; our Presbytery of South Dakota; the PCUSA (leaders and staff); and our own Session, Deacons, members and friends, and Brookings United Church of Christ staff, church council, and members. We continue to pray for Christ’s church universal and at work here in Brookings.
Victims and families affected by the Coronavirus. God grant them all comfort and healing. Prayers for all hospital workers, especially doctors and nurses, and first responders across the world and their families.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
HYMN #239 “How Happy is Each Child of God”
How happy is each child of God
Who walks within God’s ways!
You’ll reap good fruit from honest work,
And joy in life always.
How happy is the earthly home
That honors God above!
The Lord shall send all help and grace
To bless your home with love.
May God’s great peace, good health, and joy
Forever fill your home;
May you and your descendants know
Forever God’s shalom!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The plant is in loving memory of Jean Bartling for Mother’s Day and her birthday from her family. Blessed be her memory.
ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICES: Worship services are now being held in the sanctuary and online via Zoom.
SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 AM. May 23rd is the last day and will resume in September.
TUESDAY MORNING COFFEE GROUP will be meeting at Perkins at 9:30ish.
THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY will be meeting at 9:30 a.m. in the church basement.
Birthdays and Anniversaries will be celebrated the first Sunday of the month.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for May: Bonnie F, John P, Kay N, Bruce W, Trent B, Skylar H, Carolyn M, Jennifer H, Cliff R, Saige H, Adam Y, Carolyn C, Lori W
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY for May: Scott & Jennifer H, Dean & Sharon H, Dave & Lucy B, Bruce & Lori W
Lord, for these joys, we give thee thanks.
BENEDICTION
May the Lord watch between me and thee while we are absent, one from the other. Amen. (Mizpah Benediction)
POSTLUDE
Thanks to everyone who helped out with our worship this morning. It takes a village to raise a child the saying says. It takes a village to do worship virtually, our new saying during these days of pandemic. Stay safe and well. Pray often. Love always! Blessings for your week!
Sources: Call to Worship Lectionary Aids for 2020-2021 Year A Vo.54.1 PCUSA; Copyright © 2019 David S. Bell. Reprinted with permission from www.DavidSBell.org. and from the Book of Common Worship, Westminster John Knox Press, Louisville KY, 1993; pg.331