SUNDAY ORDER OF WORSHIP/COMMUNION
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
July 4, 2021
PRELUDE
WELCOME
CALL TO WORSHIP
Why do we come to worship God?
We come seeking a blessing from our Lord.
What is this blessing that we seek?
We seek an encounter with our God, who washes us in mercy, calls us to service, and fills us with love.
Let us worship God together.
* HYMN #564 “O Beautiful for Spacious Skies”
O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!
O beautiful for pilgrim feet,
Whose stern, impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America! God mend thine every flaw
Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!
O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife,
Who more than self their country loved,
And mercy more than life!
America! America! May God thy gold refine,
Till all success be nobleness,
And every gain divine!
O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam,
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Sovereign God, ruler of all hearts, you call us to obey you and favor us with true freedom. Keep us faithful to the ways of your Son, that, leaving behind all that hinders us, we may fix our eyes on him and steadfastly follow in the paths of your kingdom. Grant this through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of 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
You are love, O God, and you have loved us from the beginning. Forgive us when we do not share your love with the world: when we choose selfishness over compassion; what feels comfortable rather than what is right; when we strive for success instead of faithfulness; when we value independence over community. Forgive us, O God, of the ways we fall short. Free us to try again, and let your love lead the way.
(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
Guide us O God, by your Word and Spirit, that in your light we may see light, in your truth find freedom, and in your will discover your peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.
Ezekiel 37:4
SCRIPTURE READINGS
2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10
1 Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron, and said, “Look, we are your bone and flesh. 2 For some time, while Saul was king over us, it was you who led out Israel and brought it in. The Lord said to you: It is you who shall be shepherd of my people Israel, you who shall be ruler over Israel.” 3 So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron; and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. 4 David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. 5 At Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months; and at Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years.
9 David occupied the stronghold, and named it the city of David. David built the city all around from the Millo inward. 10 And David became greater and greater, for the Lord, the God of hosts, was with him.
Mark 6:1-13
1 He left that place and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. 2 On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. 4 Then Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor, except in their hometown, and among their own kin, and in their own house.” 5 And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. 6 And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then he went about among the villages teaching. 7 He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. 8 He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; 9 but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. 10 He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. 11 If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” 12 So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. 13 They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
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: “God Unites” Rev. Norlita Kaul
* HYMN: #835 (GTG) “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”
I am weak but Thou art strong;
Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I'll be satisfied as long
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.
Refrain: Just a closer walk with Thee,
Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to Thee,
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
Thro' this world of toil and snares,
If I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares?
None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee. [Refrain]
When my feeble life is o'er,
Time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely o'er
To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore. [Refrain]
AFFIRMATION OF FAITH -- The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
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 A Patriotic Melody by Jan Jones, soloist
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
Powerful God, multiply these gifts so that our faith community is empowered to minister to the needs of your children. Often our ministry is focused on global outreach and mission needs. However, in today’s Gospel reading, you remind us to be minister to our family, friends, and one another. We are secure in knowing that by serving our brothers and sisters locally and globally, we serve you faithfully. Accept these gifts in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mark 6:1-13 (David S. Bell)
INVITATION TO THE LORD’S SUPPER
The Lord’s Table is set for us. All who would trust in Christ as Lord and Savior are welcome.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Holy God, we praise you. Let the heavens be joyful and the earth be glad. We bless you for creating the whole world, for your promises to your people Israel and for Jesus Christ in whom your fullness dwells. Born of Mary, he shares our life. Eating with sinners, he welcomes us. Guiding his children, he leads us. Visiting the sick, he heals us. Dying on the cross, he saves us. Risen from the dead, he gives new life. Living with you, he prays for us. Let us join our voices with the choirs of angels and with the faithful of every time and place saying to the glory of your name:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
With thanksgiving we take this bread and this cup, proclaiming the death and resurrection of our Lord. Receive our sacrifice of praise, O God. Pour out your Holy Spirit upon us and this, so it may be a communion in the body and blood of our Lord. Make us one with Christ, and with all who share this feast. Unite us in faith, encourage us with hope, inspire us to love, that we may serve as your faithful disciples until we feast at your table in glory. We praise you, eternal God, through Christ, your Word made flesh in the holy and life-giving Spirit, now and forever. Amen.
Let us continue to remember those who have specifically asked us to pray for them on our ongoing prayer list.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer
Let us pray now with confidence as children of God the prayer Jesus taught his disciples to pray saying:
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.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
SHARING THE BREAD & CUP
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We thank you, O God that through Word and Sacrament that you have given us your Son, who is the true bread from heaven and food of eternal life. So strengthen us in your service that our daily living may show our thanks through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
* HYMN “Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory” (The Battle Hymn of the Republic)
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword;
His truth is marching on.
Refrain: Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
His truth is marching on.
I have seen Him in the watchfires of a hundred circling camps,
They have builded Him an altar in the evening dews and damps;
I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps;
His day is marching on. [Refrain]
He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat;
He is sifting out the hearts of all before His judgment seat.
O be swift, my soul, to answer him! Be jubilant, my feet!
Our God is marching on. [Refrain]
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free,
While God is marching on. [Refrain]
ANNOUNCEMENTS
COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT “Made in America” TONIGHT at the bandshell at Pioneer Park, 7:30 PM. Bring your own chair.
WORSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING on Monday, July 5 at 7PM via Zoom.
TUESDAY MORNING COFFEE GROUP will be meeting at First Lutheran Mission Coffee House at 9:30ish.
PIECES AND PRAYERS will meet at the church on Tuesdays at 1:30 PM. All are welcomed to help with quilting. Questions, contact Lee P (692-7757).
MISSION/FINANCE MEETING on Tuesday, July 6 at 6:30PM viz Zoom.
SESSION MEETING on Wednesday, July 7 at 7PM via Zoom.
THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY will be meeting at 9:30 AM in the church.
ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICES: Worship services are now being held in the sanctuary and online via Zoom.
Birthdays and Anniversaries will be celebrated the first Sunday of July.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for July: Richard C, Kelly W, Skip W, Marge V, Marvis J, Tia G, Sue Y, and Sharon W
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY for July: Rick & Bonnie S, Nick & Suh R, Don & Kay N, and Terry & Ann S
Lord, for these joys, we give thee thanks.
BENEDICTION
The path I walk, Christ walks it.
May the land in which I am be without sorrow.
May the Trinity protect me wherever I stay,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Bright angels walk with me – dear presence – in every dealing.
In every dealing I pray them that no one’s poison may reach me.
The ninefold people of heaven of holy cloud, the tenth force of the stout earth.
Favourable company, they come with me, so that the Lord may not be angry with me.
May I arrive at every place, may I return home; may the way in which I spend be a way without loss.
May every path before me be smooth, man, woman, and child welcome me.
A truly good journey! Well does the fair Lord show us a course, a path. Amen.
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.358; Celtic Devotions, Calvin Miller.
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
July 4, 2021
PRELUDE
WELCOME
CALL TO WORSHIP
Why do we come to worship God?
We come seeking a blessing from our Lord.
What is this blessing that we seek?
We seek an encounter with our God, who washes us in mercy, calls us to service, and fills us with love.
Let us worship God together.
* HYMN #564 “O Beautiful for Spacious Skies”
O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!
O beautiful for pilgrim feet,
Whose stern, impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America! God mend thine every flaw
Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!
O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife,
Who more than self their country loved,
And mercy more than life!
America! America! May God thy gold refine,
Till all success be nobleness,
And every gain divine!
O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam,
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Sovereign God, ruler of all hearts, you call us to obey you and favor us with true freedom. Keep us faithful to the ways of your Son, that, leaving behind all that hinders us, we may fix our eyes on him and steadfastly follow in the paths of your kingdom. Grant this through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of 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
You are love, O God, and you have loved us from the beginning. Forgive us when we do not share your love with the world: when we choose selfishness over compassion; what feels comfortable rather than what is right; when we strive for success instead of faithfulness; when we value independence over community. Forgive us, O God, of the ways we fall short. Free us to try again, and let your love lead the way.
(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
Guide us O God, by your Word and Spirit, that in your light we may see light, in your truth find freedom, and in your will discover your peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.
Ezekiel 37:4
SCRIPTURE READINGS
2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10
1 Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron, and said, “Look, we are your bone and flesh. 2 For some time, while Saul was king over us, it was you who led out Israel and brought it in. The Lord said to you: It is you who shall be shepherd of my people Israel, you who shall be ruler over Israel.” 3 So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron; and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. 4 David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. 5 At Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months; and at Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years.
9 David occupied the stronghold, and named it the city of David. David built the city all around from the Millo inward. 10 And David became greater and greater, for the Lord, the God of hosts, was with him.
Mark 6:1-13
1 He left that place and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. 2 On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. 4 Then Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor, except in their hometown, and among their own kin, and in their own house.” 5 And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. 6 And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then he went about among the villages teaching. 7 He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. 8 He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; 9 but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. 10 He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. 11 If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” 12 So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. 13 They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
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: “God Unites” Rev. Norlita Kaul
* HYMN: #835 (GTG) “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”
I am weak but Thou art strong;
Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I'll be satisfied as long
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.
Refrain: Just a closer walk with Thee,
Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to Thee,
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
Thro' this world of toil and snares,
If I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares?
None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee. [Refrain]
When my feeble life is o'er,
Time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely o'er
To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore. [Refrain]
AFFIRMATION OF FAITH -- The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
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 A Patriotic Melody by Jan Jones, soloist
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
Powerful God, multiply these gifts so that our faith community is empowered to minister to the needs of your children. Often our ministry is focused on global outreach and mission needs. However, in today’s Gospel reading, you remind us to be minister to our family, friends, and one another. We are secure in knowing that by serving our brothers and sisters locally and globally, we serve you faithfully. Accept these gifts in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mark 6:1-13 (David S. Bell)
INVITATION TO THE LORD’S SUPPER
The Lord’s Table is set for us. All who would trust in Christ as Lord and Savior are welcome.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Holy God, we praise you. Let the heavens be joyful and the earth be glad. We bless you for creating the whole world, for your promises to your people Israel and for Jesus Christ in whom your fullness dwells. Born of Mary, he shares our life. Eating with sinners, he welcomes us. Guiding his children, he leads us. Visiting the sick, he heals us. Dying on the cross, he saves us. Risen from the dead, he gives new life. Living with you, he prays for us. Let us join our voices with the choirs of angels and with the faithful of every time and place saying to the glory of your name:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
With thanksgiving we take this bread and this cup, proclaiming the death and resurrection of our Lord. Receive our sacrifice of praise, O God. Pour out your Holy Spirit upon us and this, so it may be a communion in the body and blood of our Lord. Make us one with Christ, and with all who share this feast. Unite us in faith, encourage us with hope, inspire us to love, that we may serve as your faithful disciples until we feast at your table in glory. We praise you, eternal God, through Christ, your Word made flesh in the holy and life-giving Spirit, now and forever. Amen.
Let us continue to remember those who have specifically asked us to pray for them on our ongoing prayer list.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer
Let us pray now with confidence as children of God the prayer Jesus taught his disciples to pray saying:
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.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
SHARING THE BREAD & CUP
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We thank you, O God that through Word and Sacrament that you have given us your Son, who is the true bread from heaven and food of eternal life. So strengthen us in your service that our daily living may show our thanks through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
* HYMN “Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory” (The Battle Hymn of the Republic)
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword;
His truth is marching on.
Refrain: Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
His truth is marching on.
I have seen Him in the watchfires of a hundred circling camps,
They have builded Him an altar in the evening dews and damps;
I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps;
His day is marching on. [Refrain]
He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat;
He is sifting out the hearts of all before His judgment seat.
O be swift, my soul, to answer him! Be jubilant, my feet!
Our God is marching on. [Refrain]
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free,
While God is marching on. [Refrain]
ANNOUNCEMENTS
COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT “Made in America” TONIGHT at the bandshell at Pioneer Park, 7:30 PM. Bring your own chair.
WORSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING on Monday, July 5 at 7PM via Zoom.
TUESDAY MORNING COFFEE GROUP will be meeting at First Lutheran Mission Coffee House at 9:30ish.
PIECES AND PRAYERS will meet at the church on Tuesdays at 1:30 PM. All are welcomed to help with quilting. Questions, contact Lee P (692-7757).
MISSION/FINANCE MEETING on Tuesday, July 6 at 6:30PM viz Zoom.
SESSION MEETING on Wednesday, July 7 at 7PM via Zoom.
THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY will be meeting at 9:30 AM in the church.
ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICES: Worship services are now being held in the sanctuary and online via Zoom.
Birthdays and Anniversaries will be celebrated the first Sunday of July.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY for July: Richard C, Kelly W, Skip W, Marge V, Marvis J, Tia G, Sue Y, and Sharon W
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY for July: Rick & Bonnie S, Nick & Suh R, Don & Kay N, and Terry & Ann S
Lord, for these joys, we give thee thanks.
BENEDICTION
The path I walk, Christ walks it.
May the land in which I am be without sorrow.
May the Trinity protect me wherever I stay,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Bright angels walk with me – dear presence – in every dealing.
In every dealing I pray them that no one’s poison may reach me.
The ninefold people of heaven of holy cloud, the tenth force of the stout earth.
Favourable company, they come with me, so that the Lord may not be angry with me.
May I arrive at every place, may I return home; may the way in which I spend be a way without loss.
May every path before me be smooth, man, woman, and child welcome me.
A truly good journey! Well does the fair Lord show us a course, a path. Amen.
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.358; Celtic Devotions, Calvin Miller.