Sunday, May 31, 2020 - Easter VIII

May 31, 2020 - 11:00am - Easter VIII

Pentecost Sunday

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Pastoral Charge Supervisor - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

PRELUDE  TIME

Welcome everyone to our online ZOOM Sunday worship. As you arrive, mics will be unmuted so that you may say hello. When we begin the service, all  mics will be muted. As we move through the service,  those who are reading or leading a song will be unmuted. Gavin will unmute.

WELCOME

Welcome everyone. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the Pastoral Charge Supervisor sand Worship Leader at Hope United here in Toronto. We am so pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Sandy, Sandra and myself. Gavin is our Zoom host assisting with our sound. You can type hellos and greetings at anytime in the chat. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND (Sheldon)

With respect, we acknowledge the world views, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of Scugog, the Hiawatha and the Alderville First Nations, on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honour the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  As followers of the Jesus Way, we affirm our commitment as a people empowered to work in restoring broken relationships.

GREETING (Brian)

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Let us join together in  our opening song “Come, O Holy Spirit “. The words will also appear on your screen and it is # 23 in More Voices.

MV # 23       “Come, O Holy Spirit” (Brian)

Come O Holy Spirit,

Set the Church on fire

Strike it as the lighting

Hits a posing spire;

Burn away the structures, and consume the sham

Of our holy systems: come in Jesus name!

Come, come, come in Jesus’ name

Take our hearts by storm,

All the world lies open

Pentecost is now!

Come, come, come in Jesus’ name

Take our hearts by storm,

All the world lies open

Pentecost is now!

Blow away the cobwebs

Of our stubborn past,

Come send, flying from us,

Myths unfit to last.

Wind of change, refresh us

And disturb our calm,

Teach us what true love is

Take our hearts by storm!

Come, come, come in Jesus’ name,

Take our hearts by storm,

All the world lies open,

Pentecost is now!

Come, come, come in Jesus’ name,

Take our hearts by storm,

All the world lies open,

Pentecost is now!

Free us from the bubble

Of our Babel mind.

Spark in us a language

All can understand.

Lighten then our darkness,

Come and show us how,

All the world lies open:

Pentecost is now!

Come, come, come in Jesus’ name,

Take our hearts by storm,

All the world lies open,

Pentecost is now!

Come, come, come in Jesus’ name,

Take our hearts by storm,

All the world lies open,

Pentecost is now! Amen!

CALL TO WORSHIP (Tess and Gavin)

When the Feast of Pentecost came,

they were all together in one place.

Without warning there was a sound like a strong wind, gale force—

no one could tell where it came from.

It filled the whole building.

Like a wildfire, the Holy Spirit spread through their ranks,

Spirit prompted them to start speaking in a number of different languages

Like a wildfire, we proclaim the Holy Spirit is with us at this moment.

We praise God for the Holy Spirit which fills us at this moment. Amen

OPENING PRAYER – (Marion)

Dear Creator of heaven and earth

be with us as we worship and praise your name.

Be with us as we gather as a community of God,

asking that the Holy Spirit to descend on us

as it did in that upper room of our ancestors

so many years ago. 
Holy Spirit, sustains us each and every day as we journey these challenging times

In the Name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE (Brian)

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world. May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Let us sing together, twice through, “Candle of Light”. The words will appear on your screen.

“Touch us with Your Light”

Light from this candle burning bright

Light our way through dark of night.

Help us find our way to you,

Guide us, touch us with your Light, O Lord.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION ()

Let us join our hearts as one in our prayer of confession…

We humbly come before you, authentically and fully as your children, including all that has separated us from you and each other. We asked for the healing of forgiveness for the ways in which we fall short. Amen

ASSURANCE OF GRACE (Brian)

Thank you Lord for the assurance of forgiveness as we resolve to do better as a family of God with you and with one another.  In Jesus Name. Amen.

Let us sing together, three times through, the Gloria. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 37.

VU # 37 “Gloria” (Sandy)  (sung three times through)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo,

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST  ( Brian)

       May the Peace of Christ be with you always.

       And also with you.

Let us take a moment to greet one another! Mics will be unmuted.

FIRST READING      Numbers 11:24-30  ( Marion)

So Moses went out and told the people what the Lord had said. He brought together seventy of their elders and had them stand around the tent. Then the Lord came down in the cloud and spoke with him, and he took some of the power of the Spirit that was on him and put it on the seventy elders. When the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied—but did not do so again.

However, two men, whose names were Eldad and Medad, had remained in the camp. They were listed among the elders, but did not go out to the tent. Yet the Spirit also rested on them, and they prophesied in the camp. A young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.”

Joshua son of Nun, who had been Moses’ aide since youth, spoke up and said, “Moses, my lord, stop them!”

But Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” Then Moses and the elders of Israel returned to the camp.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

VU # 827               PSALM 104  (Verona and Bruce- Text    Sandy - Refrain)

Refrain – Bless, O my soul, the Almighty who rules all creation.

O God, how manifold are your works

With Wisdom at your side you made them all

The earth is full of your creatures.   R

Refrain – Bless, O my soul, the Almighty who rules all creation.

There lies the great and mighty Sea,

Teeming with living things both great and small

Upon it sails the ships

And there is Leviathan, the monster you made to play in it

All these look to you

To give them their food in due season.

          What you give them they gather up

          When you open your hand

          You fill them with good things.

But when you hide your face they despair

When you take away their breath, they die, and return to dust

          But when you send out Your Spirit, they live again

          And you renew the face of the earth.  R

Refrain – Bless O my soul, the Almighty who rules all creation.

May your glory, o God, endure forever

          May you rejoice, O God in your works,

When you look at the earth it trembles,

          When you touch the mountains they smoke.

I will sing to God as long as I live,

          I will praise my God while I have being. R

Refrain – Bless, O my soul, the Almighty who rules all creation.

SECOND READING          1 Corinthians 12:3-13  ( Brian)

Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.  There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

VU # 372     “ Though I May Speak” (Sandy)

Though I may speak with bravest fire,

And have the gift to all inspire,

And have not love, my words are vain,

As sounding brass, and hopeless gain.

Though I may give all I possess,

And striving so my love profess,

But not be given by love within,

The profit soon turns strangely thin.

Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control,

Our spirits long to be made whole.

Let inward love guide every deed;

By this we worship, and are freed.

REFLECTION:  “Gifts”  (Brian)

MUSIC MINISTRY  “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban, sung by Sandra Cox

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING (Brian)

Lord, we lay our gifts and offerings before you on this day as well celebration Pentecost. May the fire of your Spirit infuse these gifts with your healing love and vibrant presence. We pray in Jesus name, who gave us the greatest gift possible, his life for our salvation. For this we are ever thankful. Amen

Let us join our voices in thank as we sing “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”. It is the first verse from Voices United 541 and the words will also appear on the screen

VU # 541  DOXOLOGY     “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” (Sandy)

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.

PRAYERS OF THE DAY  (Brian)

Let us centre ourselves prayer…

Our response to each prayer and intention: Lord, Hear our Prayer

May the Gifts of the Holy Spirit bring fire to the earth so that the presence of God may be seen in a new light, in new places, and  in new ways.

May our own hearts burst into flame so that no obstacle, no matter how great, ever obstructs the message
of the God within each of us.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

May we come to trust the Word of God in our heart, to speak it with courage, to follow it faithfully and to fan it to flame in others.

May the Jesus who filled women with his Holy Spirit fill the world and the church with new respect for women’s power and presence.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For the family of George Floyd, for the citizens of Minneapolis, a life has been lost and has ignited a nation…the death of George Floyd has pulled back the veil and reminded us all that racism continues to haunt our society.  It reminds us of the importance of living into justice and equality for all, not just when it is convenient, but at every moment of our collective journey...for peace in the land, for the healing of wounded and broken hearts, for the hearing of once silenced voices.

For the gifts of the many who touch our lives…we offer thanks and pray for their continued safekeeping as they share their talents and  their gifts to keep us safe, to feed us, to care for us and our loved ones when we are unwell, for we do not see or know them, yet provide us with care and help us to be well. May we continue to do what we can to keep them well and safe…

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

And for all that are in need of your healing love…those we name aloud or hold silently in our hearts

(Mics will be unmuted so that you may name a person or offer your prayer intention)

Lord for all those named or held quietly in our hearts…

We pray to the lord

Lord, Hear our Prayer

We conclude our time of prayer with the words Jesus taught us to pray…

LORD’S PRAYER Sung (Sandy)

Our Father,  in heaven, hallowed be your name; Your kingdom come; Your will be done; on earth as  in heaven. Give us this today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive  Those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial; And deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power and the glory, are Yours, now and forever. Amen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS (Brian)

•         Online Worship next Sunday June, 7 at 11:00am. Our meeting link and ID will now remain the same for each Sunday . By telephone 647-374- 4685   or  647-558-0588  and Meeting ID is  : 831 7846 1579  Or click/enter this link on your computer:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579

•         If you are a senior or know of seniors who needs assistance with groceries, you can call 211 for assistance.

•         We are excited to announce that we have received funding through the Canada Jobs for Youth program. Chris Slusar, our student from last summer will be returning for 8 weeks. He will join us on June 15. Welcome back Chris!

•         For Pastoral emergencies contact Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136 or by email: HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com

CLOSING PRAYER ( Brian)

Thank you, God, for the renewing strength of the Holy Spirit. May the Spirit sustain us as we go forward this week. Guide us Dear God to be a witness for Justice and Love especially in these times. May the Holy Spirit fuel us with courage and comfort in Jesus’ Name.  Amen

Let us sing together “Breathe on me, Breath of God”

The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 382

VU # 382     “Breathe on me, Breath of God”      (Sandy)

Breathe on me, breath of God:

Fill me with life anew,

That I may love what thou dost love

And do what thou wouldst do.

Breathe on me, breath of God,

Until my heart is pure,

Until my will is one with thine

To do and to endure.

Breathe on me, breath of God;

’til I am wholly thine,

Until this earthly part of me

Glows with thy fire divine.

Breathe on me, breath of God;

So shall I never die,

But live with thee the perfect life

Of thine eternity.

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING ( Brian)

Go in Peace in the Name God.

who created us,

who redeemed us

who sustains us. Amen   

And the blessing of our Lord Jesus Christ

be with you this day and always

CHORAL BLESSING     “Walk in Love” (Sandy)

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE

Please stay with us following the service for a few moments to chat…

Mics will be unmuted so all can say hello

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our Service of Worship.

Blessings to all and keep safe!

Hope United.ca

Sunday, May 24, 2020 - Easter VII - Ascension Sunday

May 24, 2020 - 11:00am - Easter VII

Ascension Sunday

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Pastoral Charge Supervisor - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

PRELUDE  TIME

Welcome everyone to our online ZOOM Sunday worship. As you arrive mics will be unmuted so that you may say hello. When we begin the service, all the mics, except those who are reading or leading a song.

WELCOME

Welcome everyone. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the minister at Hope United. I am so pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Myself and Sandy. You can type hellos and greetings at anytime in the chat. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND (Marion)

With respect, we acknowledge the worldviews, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of Scugog, the Hiawatha and the Alderville First Nations, on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honor the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  As followers of the Jesus Way we affirm our commitment as a people empowered to work in restoring broken relationships.

GREETING (Brian)

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Let us join together in  our opening song “Come in, Come in and Sit Down” The words will also appear on your screen and it is # 395 in Voices United

VU # 395     “Come in, Come in and Sit Down” (Sandy)

Chorus:  Come in come in and sit down
You are a part of the family
We are lost and we are found
And we are a part of the family.

1.     You know the reason why you came,
Yet no reason can explain,
So, share in the laughter and cry in the pain,
For we are a part of the family.

Chorus:  Come in come in and sit down
You are a part of the family
We are lost and we are found
And we are a part of the family.

2.    God is with us in this place
Like a Mother's warm embrace
We're all forgiven by God's grace
For we are a part of the family.

Chorus:  Come in come in and sit down
You are a part of the family
We are lost and we are found
And we are a part of the family.

3.    There's life to be shared in the bread and the wine
We are the branches Christ is the vine
This is God's temple it's not yours or mine
But we are a part of the family.

Chorus:  Come in come in and sit down
You are a part of the family
We are lost and we are found
And we are a part of the family.

4.    There's rest for the weary and health for us all
There's a yoke that is easy
And a burden that's small
So come in and worship and answer the call
For we are a part of the family.

Chorus:  Come in come in and sit down
You are a part of the family
We are lost and we are found
And we are a part of the family.

CALL TO WORSHIP  ( Marion & Verona)

We shout for joy, to God who rides upon the clouds!

We sing praises to our awe-inspiring God,
before whom the earth quakes,
and whose abundant blessings provide for all in need!

God is Sovereign over the earth,
Defender of the defenseless, and Parent to orphans;
God creates families for those who are alone,
Leads captives to freedom and breaks the yoke of oppression.

God goes forth before the people,
bringing forth restoration and justice.
Sing praise to God,
Rider of the ancient skies,
who dwells in holiness.

Proclaim the power of God!
O God, how awesome you are in your sanctuary!
You give power and strength to your people.

Let us worship God! Amen

OPENING PRAYER – (Bruce)

Almighty God,
through Jesus Christ,
you revealed to us a power
that has no parallel.
May the eyes of our heart
be enlightened to this power
and all it has done in our lives.
Pour out your Spirit of power upon us,
that we may proclaim your glory
and your grace. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE (Brian)

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world. May it burn brightly within us all. Amen

Let us sing together, twice through, “Candle of Light”. The words will appear on your screen.

“Touch us with Your Light”

Light from this candle burning bright

Light our way through dark of night.

Help us find our way to you

Guide us, touch us with your Light, O Lord

PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Tess)

Let us join our hearts as one in our prayer of confession…

Lord Jesus Christ, in you we see awesome power.
Yet, we often fail to acknowledge this power in our lives.
We see violence in the world.
We see injustice in our communities.
We see hunger and need among our neighbors.
We see longing for something more.
We see failures and faults in our lives.
In all these things, we feel powerless.
Forgive our hesitance to call upon you.
Forgive our propensity to rely upon ourselves.
Forgive our reluctance to acknowledge your  healing power and unconditional love
May your will may be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Amen..

ASSURANCE OF GRACE (Brian)

May God grant us the spirit of wisdom and revelation,
that the power  and presence of Jesus Christ be visible in your life.
For it is by the grace of Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
We are Your humble servants  Lord,

We ask that you touch us with your grace

As we journey these days ahead. Amen

Let us sing together, three times through, the Gloria. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 37.

VU # 37 “Gloria” (Sandy)  (sung three times through)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST  ( Brian)

       May the Peace of Christ be with you always.

       And also with you.

Let us take a moment to greet one another! Mics will be unmuted.

FIRST READING      Acts 1:6-14 ( Marion)

Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”  He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.  But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them.  “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city.  When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James.  They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

VU # 787               PSALM 68  (Gavin and Bruce)

Refrain – God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.

Arise, O God, and let your enemies be scattered;

Let those who hate you fee before you.

Like drifting smoke disperse them,

Like wax melting in the fire,

Let the wicked perish at your presence, O God.

But let the righteous be glad and exult before you;

Let them rejoice with exceeding joy.

Sing praises to God’s holy name;

Make a highway for the One who rides the clouds,

By joyful and exult in God’s presence    R

Refrain – God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.

Guardian of orphans, protector of widows,

O God, in your holy dwelling,

You give the lonely a home in which to live,

You lead the prisoners out to prosperity,

But the rebels must live in a wasteland.

When you went out at the head of your people

When you marched through the wilderness,

The earth quaked, the heavens poured down rain

Before you, God is Sinai, God of Israel.

You sent down a generous rain,

You refreshed your heritage when it languished.

There your people found a home,

Which in your goodness you provided or the poor.    R

Refrain – God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.

Sing to God, dominions of the earth;

Praise the One who has dominion,

The One who rides through the heavens, even the primal heavens,

The One whose voice is the mighty thunder,

Acknowledge the power that is God’s,

Whose majesty is over Israel, whose strength is in the skies,

You are awesome, O God, as you leave your sanctuary,

Bringing power and strength to your people.

Blessed are you, God of Israel

Blessed are you.      R

Refrain – God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.

GOSPEL            John 17:1-11  ( Brian)

After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed:

“Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.  For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.  And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.

“I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word. Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you. For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me.  I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them.  I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one.

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

MV # 144     “ Like a Healing Stream” (Sandy)

Like a healing stream in a barren desert,

Spirit water bringing life to dusty earth,

God is trickling through our lives as in a dream unfolding,

Promising revival and rebirth…

Like a healing stream.

Like a gentle rain on a thirsty garden,

Spirit water come to nourish tiny seed,

God is bubbling through the soil to coax a new creation,

Yearning for an end to want and need…

Like a gentle rain.

Like a river strong with a restless current,

Spirit water rushing on to distant shore,

God is carving out a channel in a new direction,

Calling for an end to hate and war…

Like a river strong.

Like a mighty sea reaching far horizons,

Spirit water with a love both deep and wide,

God is working in our hearts to shape a new tomorrow;

God will always challenge and provide!

Like a mighty sea,

Like a river strong,

Like a gentle rain,

Like a healing stream.

REFLECTION:  “May We be One”   

MUSIC MINISTRY

“Family of Friends ” By Brian Stevens

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING ( Tess)

Ever-present and loving God,
your Word tells us to cast our cares on you because you care for us.
In faith and trust we present these gifts, and ourselves, to you.
Bless and multiply them to meet the needs,
both hidden and apparent, of your beloved ones.
Inspire each of us to live as Christ’s witnesses,
today and ever more.
By the power of the Holy Spirit, we pray. Amen.

Let us join our voices in thank as we sing “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”. It is the first verse from Voices United # 541 and the words will also appear on the screen.

VU # 541  DOXOLOGY     “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” ( Sandy)

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.

PRAYERS OF THE DAY  (Marion & Bruce)

Let us centre ourselves prayer…

Our response to each prayer and intention:  Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Marion)

Spring is bursting forth from every corner of our city. May the blooming flowers and the tuneful birds, the greening of the branches, the cherry blossoms in their splendour, refresh our spirits and bring joy to our hearts. For this is the song of creation that is at play once again in the world, renewing our hope, inspiring our souls

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Bruce)

Lord,  we offer thanks for Your benevolent nature. Your Son has ascended into heaven, yet  His blessings here on earth surround and embrace us still . Let us not take for granted the blessings that You have given us, instead let them be received with thankful hearts.  On this ascension Sunday, we offer glory, honor and praise because of who You are and because of all that You have done, in Jesus’ Name,…

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Marion)

Lord, we offer thanks for the blessings you have bestowed upon this congregation and Brian Stevens our student minister. We ask your constant blessings and guidance upon him as he assumes his new role of Pastoral Charge Supervisor. We offer thanks for the presence of Rev. Karen  Dale who has been with us these past two years. May continued blessings rest upon her in her ministry at Beach United Church.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Bruce)

And for all that are in need of your healing love…those we name aloud or hold silently in our hearts

(Mics will be unmuted so that you may name a person or offer your prayer intention)

Lord for all those named or held quietly in our hearts…

We pray to the lord

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Marion)

We conclude our time of prayer with the words Jesus taught us to pray…

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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

VU # 402     “We Are One”

We are one, as we come, joyful to be here

In the praise, on our lips

There’s a sense that God is near!

We are one, as we sing

As we seek, we are found,

And we come needful of God’s grace,

As we meet, together in this place.

We are one, as we share,

As we share, brokenness and fear,

In the touch, of a hand

There’s a sense that God is here.

We are one, as we care,

As we heal, we are healed,

And we share warmth in God’s embrace,

As we pray together in this place.

We are one, as we feast

As we feast, peace becomes the sign

In the bread, and the wine

There’s a sense of love divine.

We are one as we come

As we feed, we are fed

And we feel God’s refreshing grace

As we meet at table in this place.

SERVICE OF COMMUNION

God be with you

     And also with you

Lift up your hearts

     We lift our hearts in prayer

Let us give thanks to God

      It is good to give God thanks and praise

Loving God, source of all, we thank you and praise you with our lips and with our lives, that, having created us and all things through your word, you welcome our prayer and praise. For the goodness of creation and the glory of redemption we praise you. For your risen presence on this day we thank you as we are grateful for the law and prophets who came before you.

Therefore, with all that is seen and unseen, and with all the faithful of every time and place, we join in this hymn of praise and thanksgiving…

MV # 203  Holy, Holy, Holy ( Sanctus and Benedictus)

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!

Loving God, Holy one, we offer our praise and thanksgiving over this bread and cup, because in Jesus Christ you have joined yourself forever with us, uniting heaven and earth. Now, therefore, we gratefully remember:

Jesus’ birth into our humanity,

Baptism for our sin,

Compassion for our suffering,

Intimacy with our fragility,

Rebuke of our pride,

Bearing the cross with its death,

And rising from the tomb by the power of God.

On the night before he died, Jesus took a loaf of bread, gave you thanks, broke it and said Take, eat, this is my body broken for you. Each time you do this, remember me.

Then Jesus took a cup, and having given thanks, he passed it to his friends saying: Drink. This cup is the new covenant in my blood, do this in remembrance of me. Let us proclaim the mystery of faith:

MV # 204 Memorial Acclamation

Sing Christ has died and Christ is risen,

Christ will come a-gain!

Sing Christ has died and Christ is risen,

Christ will come a-gain!

Loving God, come to us and bless these gifts of bread and wine that they may be for us the body and blood of Christ; the sign and seal of our forgiveness in him and our adoption as the children of God.. As we eat and drink together, on this happy day, make us one with Christ and one in Christ, a sign of his eternal reign in the world.

This sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving we offer you, loving God, though Jesus Christ our Saviour, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

Life-giving God may we who share in Christ’s body

live his risen life;

We, who drink this cup, bring new life to others;

We, whom the Spirit lights, give light to the world.

MV # 205 Great Amen

Amen, amen O Holy One!

Hosanna and Amen!

Amen, amen O Holy One!

Hosanna and Amen!

ANNOUNCEMENTS (Brian)

•        Online Worship next Sunday, May 31 at 11:00am. Our meeting link and ID will now remain the same for each Sunday . By telephone 647-374- 4685   or  647-558-0588  and Meeting ID is  : 831 7846 1579  Or click/enter this link on your computer:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579

•         If you are a senior or know of seniors who needs assistance with groceries, you can call 211 for assistance.

•         A Special thanks to Rev. Karen Dale who has been our Pastoral Charge Supervisor for the last two years. Blessings in your continued work at Beach United. We are ever thankful for your time with us at Hope United.

•         For Pastoral emergencies contact Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136 or by email: HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com

CLOSING PRAYER (Brian)

As we go back into the world from which we have come

Let love be true and freely given.

Be encouraged and feel the blessings of God, Christ and Spirit

whose love warms and surrounds you like the sun.

For God is with us always,

as close as our beating hearts. Amen.

Let us sing together ““What a Friend We Have in Jesus””

The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 664

VU # 664     “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” (Sandy)

1.     What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!

2.    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.

3.    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.

4.    Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised
Thou wilt all our burdens bear;
May we ever, Lord, be bringing
All to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright, unclouded,
There will be no need for prayer—
Rapture, praise, and endless worship
Will be our sweet portion there.

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING (Brian)

Continue to be faithful, remain committed, be witnesses for Christ.
For the God of all grace has called you to eternal glory
through Jesus Christ,
and will fulfill, restore, strengthen, and establish you
through suffering and struggle.
Be empowered by Christ’s love,
          keeping Christ’s name on your lips,
          the Wisdom of the Holy Spirit in your mind,
          God’s love in your hearts,
          God’s beloved ones always in your sight, and
          God’s still speaking voice in your ear. Amen   

CHORAL BLESSING     “Walk in Love”

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE 

Please stay with us following the service for a few moments to chat…

Mics will be unmuted so all can say hello

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our Service of Worship.

Blessings to all and keep safe!

Hope United.ca

Sunday, May 17, 2020 - Easter VI

May 17, 2020 - 11:00am - Easter VI

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

Supervising Minister – Rev. Karen Dale

PRELUDE  TIME

Welcome everyone to our online ZOOM Sunday worship. As you arrive mics will be unmuted so that you may say hello. When we begin the service, all the mics, except those who are reading or leading a song.

WELCOME

Welcome everyone. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the minister at Hope United. I am so pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Sandy and Gavin. You can type hellos and greetings at anytime in the chat. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND (Verona)

With respect, we acknowledge the worldviews, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of Scugog, the Hiawatha and the Alderville First Nations, on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honor the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  As followers of the Jesus Way we affirm our commitment as a people empowered to work in restoring broken relationships.

GREETING ( Brian)

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Let us join together in  our opening song “Draw the Circle Wide” The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in More Voices  # 145

MV # 145       “Draw the Circle Wide” ( Sandy)

Draw the circle wide, draw it wider still.

Let this be our song: no one stands alone.

Standing side by side, draw the circle wide.

God the still-point of the circle

‘Round whom all creation turns;

Nothing lost, but held forever,

in God's gracious arms.

Draw the circle wide, draw it wider still.

Let this be our song: no one stands alone.

Standing side by side, draw the circle wide.

Let our hearts touch far horizons,

So encompass great and small;

Let our loving know no borders,

Faithful to God's call.

Draw the circle wide, draw it wider still.

Let this be our song: no one stands alone.

Standing side by side, draw the circle wide.

Let the dreams we dream be larger,

Than we've ever dreamed before;

Let the dream of Christ be in us,

Open every door!

Draw the circle wide, draw it wider still.

Let this be our song: no one stands alone.

Standing side by side, draw the circle wide.

CALL TO WORSHIP  ( Bruce & Gavin)

(Living on the Path of Respect- UCC))

Creator has placed each and every one of us here with purpose!

Let us praise Creator for the earth below our feet.

For Mother Earth sustains us, and all creation cries out for justice.

Creator has given us the eastern direction: the direction of vision, children, and the sun that rises on us each day.

          Let us view the world with child-like wonder—full of awe and humility.

Thankful for the new day that dawns on us each and every morning,

we give thanks for God who gives us new mercies every day..

Creator has given us the southern direction:the direction of honesty, adolescence, and growth

          Help us to speak only the truth, and open our hearts to hear the stories of others.

Inspire us to grow in the image of Christ who teaches us to walk the good path

Creator has given us the western direction:the direction of adulthood, harvesting, and deep spiritual understanding.

          Give us the tools we need to act on the knowledge we are gathering,

allowing us to act with maturity and grace.

Creator has given us the northern direction: the direction of Elders, achievement, and a deep connection to spirituality.

Empower us to learn from the past, and to move forward to create your companionship of empowerment* here on Mother Earth.

Holy Spirit, give us the teachings we need to correct any wrongs, and to live lives full of love, peace, and hope.

Be with us now, Creator, as we worship you in awe-filled praise. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER – (Marion)

(United Church of Christ)

Ever-Present One,
we have come here today for many reasons,
each with our own story.
May these reasons and stories be immersed in your Sacred Story,
finding ourselves caught up in the drama and beauty
of Jesus’ teachings, life, and ministry.
Enable us to move boldly into the future
and to fulfill the hope of love that Jesus taught. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE (Brian)

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world. May it burn brightly within us all. Amen

Let us sing together, twice through, “Candle of Light”. The words will appear on your screen.

“Touch us with Your Light”

Light from this candle burning bright

Light our way through dark of night.

Help us find our way to you

Guide us, touch us with your Light, O Lord

PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Tess)

Let us join our hearts as one in our prayer of confession…

Holy One,
It seems, at times, we forget that you know us at our very depth.
We become anxious and afraid that you are not with us,
in these days of isolation and worry.

Yet even now you call us to the work of imagination,
generosity and patience, which are possible when we remember Whose we are.
By your mercy, help us to live out the commandments of Christ
within these walls, beyond this hour.

May we become for the world  the very presence of justice, hope and peace. Amen

ASSURANCE OF GRACE(Brian)

All of us have been created and called to be in community
Which today takes many forms!
Know this, but more importantly, live this:
As God’s children we are loved and equipped for great ministry.
Follow Jesus’ commandment to love boldly, even in solitude,
as you are held in the grace and love of God. Amen.

Let us sing together, three times through, the Gloria. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 37.

VU # 37  “Gloria” (Sandy)  (sung three times through)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST  (Brian)

May the Peace of Christ be with you always.

And also with you.

Let us take a moment to greet one another! Mics will be unmuted.

FIRST READING        1 Peter 3: 14-22 (Marion)

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?  But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.  For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.  

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit. After being made alive, he went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits—  to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,  who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

VU # 784                 PSALM 66  (Sandy)

Refrain – God of all, to you we raise this out song of joyful praise.

Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth;

Sing to the Honour of God’s name;

Make glorious the praise of God.

How awesome are your deeds!

So great is your strength, your foes wilt before you.

For all the world shall worship you,

Shall sing to you and praise your name.  R

Refrain – God of all, to you we raise this out song of joyful praise.

O come and see what God has done,

A work that is awesome to all earth’s children.

God turned the sea into dry land;

They crossed the river on foot.

There we rejoiced in God,

Who rules in power forever,

Whose eyes keep watch on the nations.

Let not the rebellious lift up their heads.   R

Refrain – God of all, to you we raise this out song of joyful praise.

Bless our God, all people,

And let the sound of praise be heard.

God has preserved us among the living,

And kept our feet from stumbling.

For you, O God, have tested us;

You have tried us as silver is tried.

You led us into the desert,

You laid a burden upon our back,

You let sickness furrow our brow,

We passed through fire and water;

But you brought us out to a land of plenty.    R

Refrain – God of all, to you we raise this out song of joyful praise.

I will come to your house with burnt offerings;

I will pay you my vows,

The vows which I made with my lips

And swore with my mouth when I was in trouble.

I will offer fat beasts in sacrifice,

A savoury offering of rams;

I will prepare you an offering of bulls and goats.    R

Refrain – God of all, to you we raise this out song of joyful praise.

Come then and listen, all you that fear God,

While I tell what God has done for me.

I cried aloud to God;

High praise was ready on my tongue.

If I cherished evil in my heart,

God would not have heard me.

But truly God has heard me,

Has given heed to the voice of my prayer.

Blessed are you, O God,

For you have not rejected my prayer,

Nor withdrawn from me your steadfast love.    R

Refrain – God of all, to you we raise this out song of joyful praise.

GOSPEL             John 14:15-21  ( Brian)

“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—  the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.  I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.  Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.  On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.  Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

MV # 48         “I Can Feel You Near Me God” (Sandy)

I can feel you near me God, I can feel you near;
Yes I know you’re with me God, I feel you here.
I can feel you near me God, I can feel you near;
Yes I know you’re with me God, Heaven is here.

And I’ll jump for joy I’m singing Alleluia
Jump for joy for you
I will jump for joy I’m singing Alleluia
Jump for joy for you.

I can feel you loving me, yes I know you care,
God I know you’re loving me, always everywhere.
I can feel you loving me, yes, I know you care,
God I know you’re loving me I know you’re there.

And I’ll jump for joy, I’m singing Alleluia!
Jump for joy for you;
I will jump for joy, I’m singing Alleluia!
Jump for joy for you.

REFLECTION:  “The Spirit of Truth”    

MUSIC MINISTRY

“Believe in You” By Amanda Marshall Sung by Gavin Penny

Somewhere there's a river
Looking for a stream
Somewhere there's a dreamer
Looking for a dream
Somewhere there's a drifter
Trying to find his way
Somewhere someone's waiting
To hear somebody say

I believe in you
I can't even count the ways that
I believe in you
And all I want to do is help you to
Believe in you

Somewhere there's an angel
Trying to earn his wings
Somewhere there's a silent voice
Learning how to sing
Some of us can't move ahead
We're paralyzed with fear
And everybody's listening
'Cause we all need to hear

I believe in you
I can't even count the ways that
I believe in you
And all I want to do is help you to
Believe in you

I will hold you up
I will help you stand
I will comfort you when you need a friend
I will…

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING ( Tess)

As Children of God, you are called
to share in the love and work of Jesus.
We, as the gathered Church, the Body of Christ,
continue in our day to witness and work on behalf of our Lord,
returning our gifts, and offerings.

Bless them with your loving, healing hands Lord,

That all who are touched by them, will know your grace and care Amen

Let us join our voices in thank as we sing “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”. It is the first verse from Voices United # 541 and the words will also appear on the screen

VU # 541  DOXOLOGY  “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” ( Sandy)

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.

PRAYERS OF THE DAY  (Brian)

Let us centre ourselves prayer…

Our response to each prayer and intention:  Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Brian)

The beautiful sunshine and colours of spring have arrived, we thank you God for Creation…Creator God, we worship you. In the beginning you said, “Let there be light”; and the light shone, piercing the darkness. You have made the vast universe and amidst its movements and glories, your Spirit is at work. Scattering the stars and moulding the hills, you have made a world full of beauty. You have made humankind in your own image, stewards of the earth, partners in Creation. Remind us of our responsibility and give us the courage to be good stewards… We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

We become upset with others and find it easier to reject them than to seek to understand and to love them. We struggle with the almost impossible command to love our enemies. We become driven to meet our own needs and become blind to the needs of others. We are driven to succeed which becomes all consuming and trumps our command to love.

Forgive us our foolish ways. Help us to keep in our awareness of this command to love which Jesus repeated so many times. Help us especially to hear it in those hard times when it is most difficult to love. We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

Lord, for our congregation and community, as we set forth in new directions

We ask that you guide, us, hold, and challenge us,

That we may live into your call to be all that  you have set upon our hearts,

That we may discern clearly our missions and Main and Danforth

And live into it with bold and courageous hearts

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

And for all that are in need of your healing love…those we name aloud or hold silently in our hearts

(Mics will be unmuted so that you may name a person or offer your prayer intention)

Lord for all those named or held quietly in our hearts…

We pray to the lord

Lord, Hear our Prayer

We lift now our voices in joyous song with the words Jesus taught us to pray…

VU # 959 LORD’S PRAYER (sung)

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name,

Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are Yours, now and forever.

ANNOUNCEMENTS ( Brian)

•       Online Worship next Sunday, May 24 at 11:00am. Our meeting link and ID will now remain the same for each Sunday . By telephone 647 374 4685   or  647 558 0588  and Meeting ID is  : 831 7846 1579  Or click/enter this link on your computer:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579

•         If you are a senior or know of seniors who needs assistance with groceries, you can call 211 for assistance.

•         Immediately following our service this morning  we will hold an on-line Zoom Congregational Meeting to approve our Community of Faith Profile. We hope that you can stay with us for this brief meeting

•         A Special thanks to Walter who has been tending to our gardens. The flowers have exploded with colour and the vibrancy of spring!

•         For Pastoral emergencies contact Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136 or by email: HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com

CLOSING PRAYER ( Brian)

(United Church of Christ)

As we go back into the world from which we have come

Let love be true and freely given.

Be encouraged and feel the blessings of God, Christ and Spirit

whose love warms and surrounds you like the sun.

For God is with us always,

as close as our beating hearts. Amen.

Let us sing together “Immortal, invisible, God Only Wise”

The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 264

VU # 264           “Immortal, invisible, God Only Wise”

                   (Brian & Sandy)

Immortal, invisible, God only wise;

In light inaccessible hid from our eyes;

Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,

Almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.

Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,
Nor wanting, nor wasting, Thou rulest in might;
Thy justice like mountains high soaring above
Thy clouds which are fountains of goodness and love.

Great Father of Glory, pure Father of Light
Thine angels adore Thee, all veiling their sight;
All laud we would render, O help us to see:
'Tis only the splendour of light hideth Thee!

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING ( Brian)

(Nathan Nettleton)

Go now and walk in the light of God’s glory.
Love Christ and keep his word.
Do not let your hearts be troubled,
but lead others to the waters of life.

And may God’s face shine on you with favour;
May Christ Jesus mark you out as his own;
And may the Holy Spirit lead you into all truth and peace.

Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen

CHORAL BLESSING “Walk in Love”

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE

Please stay with us following the service for a few moments to chat…

Mics will be unmuted so all can say hello

Then we shall gather for our congregational meeting

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our Service of Worship.

Blessings to all and keep safe! 

Hope United.ca

Sunday, May 10, 2020 - Easter V

May 10, 2020 - 11:00am - Easter V

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

Supervising Minister – Rev. Karen Dale

PRELUDE  TIME

Welcome everyone to our online ZOOM Sunday worship. As you arrive mics will be unmuted so that you may say hello. When we begin the service, all the mics will be muted, except those who are reading or leading a song.

WELCOME

Welcome everyone. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the minister at Hope United. I am so pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Sandy and Suzanne. You can type hellos and greetings at anytime in the chat. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND( Zoltan)

With respect, we acknowledge the worldviews, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of Scugog, the Hiawatha and the Alderville First Nations, on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honor the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  As followers of the Jesus Way we affirm our commitment as a people empowered to work in restoring broken relationships.

GREETING ( Brian)

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Let us join together in  our opening song “Let Us Build a House” The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in More Voices  # 1.

MV # 1           “Let Us Build a House” ( Sandy)

Let us build a house where love can dwell
and all can safely live,
a place where saints and children tell
how hearts learn to forgive.
Built of hopes and dreams and visions,
rock of faith and vault of grace;
here the love of Christ shall end divisions.
All are welcome, all are welcome,
all are welcome in this place.

Let us build a house where prophets speak,
and words are strong and true,
where all God’s children dare to seek
to dream God’s reign anew.
Here the cross shall stand as witness
and as symbol of God’s grace;
here as one we claim the faith of Jesus.
All are welcome, all are welcome,
all are welcome in this place.

Let us build a house where love is found
in water, wine and wheat:
a banquet hall on holy ground
where peace and justice meet.
Here the love of God, through Jesus,
is revealed in time and space;
as we share in Christ the feast that frees us.
All are welcome, all are welcome,
all are welcome in this place.

Let us build a house where hands will reach
beyond the wood and stone
to heal and strengthen, serve and teach,
and live the Word they’ve known.
Here the outcast and the stranger
bear the image of God’s face;
let us bring an end to fear and danger.
All are welcome, all are welcome,
all are welcome in this place.

Let us build a house where all are named,
their songs and visions heard
and loved and treasured, taught and claimed
as words within the Word.
Built of tears and cries and laughter,
prayers of faith and songs of grace,
let this house proclaim from floor to rafter.
All are welcome, all are welcome,
all are welcome in this place.

CALL TO WORSHIP  ( Brian & Marion)

(Presbyterian Church in Canada)

Do not let your hearts be troubled.
We are not troubled. We believe in God!

God’s house has many dwelling places.
Christ himself has gone to prepare a place for us.

We will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

For us, Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.

Let us worship God,

Made known to us in Christ Jesus. Amen

OPENING PRAYER ( Bruce)

(Presbyterian Church in Canada)

Steadfast and loving God,

you are our refuge in times of trouble and our shelter when we are afraid.

In you alone we trust.

In you we see our way forward and discover what is authentic.

In you we find abundant life.

And so we offer you our worship and love

as the God who creates and gives life to the world,

as the Son who preached the truth of the good news,

and the Holy Spirit who guides us; this day and always. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE ( Brian)

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world. May it burn brightly within us all. Amen

Let us sing together, twice through, “Candle of Light”. The words will appear on your screen.

“Touch us with Your Light”

Light from this candle burning bright

Light our way through dark of night.

Help us find our way to you

Guide us, touch us with your Light, O Lord

PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Marion)

Let us join our voices in our prayer of confession…

Steadfast and loving God, we confess that while we know Christ is the way, the truth and the life, we have often failed to follow him. We sometimes doubt his wisdom and truth. Rather than live the life he offers, we carve out our own paths and pursue our own desires. Forgive us for the many ways we have fallen short of your purpose for our lives. Give us courage to follow Jesus, who continues to show us the way.

ASSURANCE OF GRACE( Brian)

Gracious God, as we listen to the words of Scripture, open our hearts and minds with the gift of your Holy Spirit. By the Spirit’s power, move in us so that we follow your way more closely, know your truth more fully, and share in your gift of life more abundantly, through Christ, your Living Word. Do not let your hearts be troubled; know that, in Christ, you are forgiven. Accept God’s grace and forgiveness this day, and extend it to others for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Let us sing together, three times through, the Gloria. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 37.

VU # 37  “Gloria” ( Sandy)  (sung three times through)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

May the Peace of Christ be with you always.

And also with you.

Let us take a moment to greet one another! Mics will be unmuted.

FIRST READING        Acts 7:55-60 (Bruce)

But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.  “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.

While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”  Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

VU # 758                 PSALM 31  (Sandy & Suzanne – Recorded)

Refrain – I trust in you, you are my God.

In you. O God, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame

Deliver me in your righteousness

Incline your ear; come quickly to my rescue

Refrain – I trust in you, you are my God.

Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to keep me safe

             You are indeed my rock and fortress

             Lead me and guide me for your own name’s sake.

Release me from the net that they hid for me, for you are my protector

Into your hands I commend my spirit

  For you have redeemed me, O God of truth

Refrain – I trust in you, you are my God.

Have mercy on me, God for I am in trouble

My eyes are wasted with grief, my soul and my body also

             My life is worn out with sorrow, and my years with sighing

             My strength fails me in my misery, my bones are wasted away

I am the scorn of my enemies, yes, even of my neighbours.

             My acquaintances shudder at the sight of me;

             When they see me in the street, they shrink away

I have passed out of mind like one who is dead.

I have become like a broken vessel.

             I hear the whispering of many, fear is on every side

             While they conspire against me, and plot to take my life.

Refrain – I trust in you, you are my God.

My times are in your hands

Deliver me from the hands of my enemies, those who pursue me

             Let your face shine on your servant

             And save me, for your mercy’s sake.

Refrain – I trust in you, you are my God.

GOSPEL             John 14:1-14 ( Zoltan)

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.  My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”

Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?  Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work.  Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.  You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

MV # 92         “Like a Rock” ( Sandy)

                       (sung twice)

Like a rock, like a rock, God is under our feet.

Like the starry night sky,  God is over our head.

Like the sun on the horizon,  God is ever before

Like the river runs to ocean, Our home is in God evermore.

REFLECTION:  “God’s House”    

MUSIC MINISTRY

“How Great Thou Art” Sung by Suzanne Oryschak

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING ( Tess)

Generous God, we bless you for your gift of life renewed through Christ’s love and through springtime growth in fields and gardens. Bless the gifts we bring to you. May they offer hope and renewal in the world you love as we serve in the name of your greatest gift, Jesus Christ, our Risen Lord. Amen.

Let us join our voices in thank as we sing “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”. It is the first verse from Voices United # 541 and the words will also appear on the screen.

VU # 541  DOXOLOGY  “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow” ( Sandy)

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.

PRAYERS OF THE DAY  ( Brian and Marion)

Let us centre ourselves prayer…

Our response to each prayer and intention:  Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Brian)

God of power and might, who raised Jesus from the dead,

you free our hearts from trouble

and prepare a place of joyful for all your children.

And so we thank you for your promise and your peace which we need so desperately these days.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Marion)

In Christ, we know you as the way.

You deliver all who turn to you in moments of challenge or uncertainty.

We pray for those who feel lost or alone,

those who live with great anxiety and doubt

and any who are fearful of what tomorrow might bring.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Brian)

God of the Way, open the eyes of those who are struggling

so that they can see that there is a new way filled with hope for them,

with the promise of rest and renewal.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Marion)

In Christ, we know you as the truth.

You reveal the falsehood and lies that ensnare us in these confusing times.

We pray for those who have put their faith in false hope and flimsy promises,

those who are deceived by the fabrications of the power hungry

and any who are misled by distortions and twisted claims that circulate each day:

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Brian)

In Christ, we know you as the life.

You promise to overcome all that is rooted in death and decay

by your resurrecting power.

We pray for people who struggle with illness or grief

and all who live with deep sadness, depression or hopelessness.

We pray for those for whom each day seems like a chore,

and those for whom opportunities for abundant life are cut down by acts of discrimination or the loss of what seemed like security just weeks ago.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Marion)

Good and Gentle God,
we pray in gratitude for our mothers and for all the women of theory who have joined with you in the wonder of bringing forth new life. You who became human through a woman, grant to all mothers the courage they need to face the uncertain future that life with children always brings.
Give them the strength to live and to be loved in return, not perfectly, but humanly.
Give them the faithful support of husband, family and friends as they care for the physical and spiritual growth of their children.
Give them joy and delight in their children to sustain them through the trials of motherhood. Most of all, give them the wisdom to turn to you for help when they need it most.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

(Brian)

For those in need of your healing love O Lord

those we name aloud) or those we hold silently in our Hearts

(mics will be unmuted, please say name or intention)

Moment of Silence

For all those named…For all intentions offered

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer 

(Marion)

Lord, may our prayers and intentions fall gently upon your ear, grant them O Lord, as you see fit in time, in ways, in blessing and care.

(Brian)

Help each of us and your whole church to follow in the footsteps of Christ

so that in our living and loving, your kingdom of justice and love is revealed.

This we pray in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray, as we say…

VU # 910 LORD’S PRAYER (spoken)

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name,

Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread and  forgive us our trespasses

As we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil,

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory

Forever and ever. Amen

ANNOUNCEMENTS (Brian)

•         Happy Mothers day to all of our mothers and those who have mothered us and offered us their care.

•         Online Worship next Sunday, May 17 at 11:00am. Our meeting link and ID will now remain the same for each Sunday . By telephone 647 374 4685   or  647 558 0588  and Meeting ID is  : 831 7846 1579  Or click/enter this link on your computer:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579

•         If you are a senior or know of seniors who needs assistance with groceries, you can call 211 for assistance.

•         We will hold an on-line Zoom Congregational Meeting to approve our Community of Faith Profile on Sunday, May 17, 2020 following our service. This is our second and final notice of this meeting.

•         For Pastoral emergencies contact Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136 or by email: HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com

CLOSING PRAYER (Brian)

(Author unknown)

There are times when only a mother's love
Can understand our tears,
Can soothe our disappoints
And calm all of our fears.
There are times when only a mother's love
Can share the joy we feel
When something we've dreamed about
Quite suddenly is real.
There are times when only a mother's faith
Can help us on life's way
And inspire in us the confidence
We need from day to day.
For a mother's heart and a mother's faith
And a mother's steadfast love
Were fashioned by the angels
And sent from God above.

Let us sing together “How Firm a Foundation” The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 660

VU # 660        “How Firm a Foundation” (Sandy)

How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in His excellent word!
What more can He say than to you He hath said,
To you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?

Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed,
For I am thy God, and will still give thee aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by My righteous, omnipotent hand.”

“When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
The rivers of sorrow shall not overflow;
For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless,
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.”

“When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.”

“The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose,
I will not, I will not desert to his foes;
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no, never, no, never forsake!”

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING (Marion)

Once you were not a people,
but now you are a people bound together in God’s mercy
and united in Christ’s service.
Depart in peace and confidence,
to love and serve in the name of Jesus the Christ,
the living representation of God
– our way, our truth, our life. Amen.

CHORAL BLESSING “Walk in Love”

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE

Please stay with us following the service for a few moments to chat.

Mics will be unmuted so all can say hello

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our Service of Worship.

Blessings to all and keep safe! 

Hope United.ca

Sunday, May 3, 2020 - Easter IV

May 3, 2020 - 11:00am - Easter IV

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

Supervising Minister – Rev. Karen Dale

PRELUDE  TIME

Welcome everyone to our online ZOOM Sunday worship. As you arrive I will leave mics unmuted so that you may say hello. When we begin the service, I will mute all the mics except those who are reading or leading a song.

WELCOME

Welcome everyone. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the minister at Hope United. I am so pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Sandy and Claire. You can type hellos and greetings at anytime in the chat. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND

With respect, we acknowledge the worldviews, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of the New Credit on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honour the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  We affirm our commitment as Canadian Treaty people to work in right relation toward reconciliation.

GREETING

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Let us join together in  our opening song “I Have Called You by Your Name” The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in More Voices  # 161.

MV #161       “I Have Called You by Your Name”

I have called you by your name, you are mine

I have gifted you and ask you now to shine

I will not abandon you: all my promises are true.

You are gifted, called and chosen; you are mine.

I will help you learn my name as you go;

Read it written in my people, help them grow.

Pour the water in my name, speak the word your soul can claim

Offer Jesus’ body given long ago.

I know you will need my touch as you go.

Feel it pulsing in creation’s ebb and flow.

Like the woman reaching out, choosing faith in spite of doubt,

Go and tell my precious people they are mine.

I have given you a name, it is mine

I have given you my Spirit as a sign

With my wonder in your soul, make my wounded children whole

Go and tell my precious people they are mine.

CALL TO WORSHIP

( Based on Psalm 23)

Jesus, you are our shepherd.  
We shall never want.  

You make us lie down in green pastures; 
you lead us beside the still waters. 
You restore our souls. 

You guide us in the paths of righteousness for your name’s sake.
Even though we may walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
we fear no evil, for you, Christ, comfort us.

Jesus has prepared a table for us in the presence of our foes; 
Jesus has anointed us with the oil of salvation; 
our cup runs over!  

Surely, goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives,
And we will dwell in the house of our Holy Savior forever and ever.  Amen.

OPENING PRAYER

(from United Church of Christ)

Incarnate God,
You are the one who comes to us in Jesus Christ.
Holy One, 
You are the one who comes to us in the Holy Spirit.
Sovereign of Earth and Heaven, 
You are the one who calls us to recognize you today and every day
As splendid Mystery.
Gather our hearts and minds this day.
Kindle our God-consciousness.
Let us worship you in awe and wonder!!

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world. May it burn brightly within us all. Amen

Let us sing together, twice through, “Candle of Light”. The words will appear on your screen.

“Touch us with Your Light”

Light from this candle burning bright

Light our way through dark of night.

Help us find our way to you

Guide us, touch us with your Light, O Lord

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Let us join our voices in our prayer of confession…

Merciful and Loving God, we ask forgiveness 
because our consciousness of you 
is dimmed by everyday desires and needs.

Response: Raise our consciousness of you, O God.

We forget that we are a reflection of your image.  
We act as though you are a Sunday-only event.  

Response: Increase our mindfulness of you, O God.

Help us to a greater common awareness 
of your deep mystery and infinite presence.  

Response: Rouse our awareness of you, God.

Open our eyes from surface focus to depth perception.
Turn our heads from shallow concerns to eternal truths.  

Response:  Awaken us from faint-heartedness, O God.

Forgive us for our narrow and selfish ways.  
Save us from cheap grace with your amazing grace.  

Response: Forgive us, O God.  We ask in Jesus’ precious name.  Amen.

 ASSURANCE OF GRACE

Holy, Forgiving God, we are your sheep.  
You keep us awake and aware.  
You can increase our God-consciousness every day of our lives.  
Bless you and praise you for forgiving us 
when we are barely mindful enough to ask.  
Help us to enter by the door 
when we hear the voice of the Good Shepherd.  
We hear your voice of pardon. 
Through Christ’s grace we are forgiven this morning, and we go in. Amen.

Let us sing together, three times through, the Gloria. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 37.

VU # 37  “Gloria”   (sung three times through)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

May the Peace of Christ be with you always.

And also with you.

Let us take a moment to greet one another! Please type your greetings into the chat

FIRST READING        Acts 2:42-47

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.  All the believers were together and had everything in common. 

They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.  Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

VU #749                 PSALM 23

Refrain – The God of love my shepherd is; what can I want or need.

God is my shepherd

             There is nothing I shall lack.

You, God make me lie down in green pastures,

             You lead me beside the peaceful waters

You revive my spirit:

             You guide me in the right pathways for you name’s sake

Refrain – The God of love my shepherd is; what can I want or need.

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me.

             Your rod and staff are my comfort.

Your spread a table for me is the sight of my enemies

             You anoint my head with oil, my cup is overflowing.

Surely you goodness and mercy shall; follow me all the days of your life.

             And I will dwell in God’s house, my whole life long.

Refrain – The God of love my shepherd is; what can I want or need.

GOSPEL              John 10:1-10

“Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber.  The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.  The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.  When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.  But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.”  Jesus used this figure of speech, but the Pharisees did not understand what he was telling them.

Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep.  All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them.  I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

VU #747        “ The Lord’s My Shepherd”

The Lord’s my Shepherd, I’ll not want;
He makes me down to lie
In pastures green; He leadeth me
The quiet waters by.

My soul He doth restore again,
And me to walk doth make
Within the paths of righteousness,
Even for His own name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk in death’s dark vale,
Yet will I fear no ill;
For Thou art with me, and Thy rod
And staff my comfort still.

My table Thou hast furnished me
In presence of my foes;
My head Thou dost with oil anoint,
And my cup overflows.

Goodness and mercy all my life
Shall surely follow me;
And in God’s house forevermore,
My dwelling place shall be.

REFLECTION:  “A Joyous Entrance through the Shepherd’s Gate”

MUSIC MINISTRY

“ In the Garden” Sung by Claire Olanow

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

Good Shepherd of the Sheep, 
you have opened the door to new life for us 
through your dedication and your sacrifice.  
May we reflect your love for us 
by opening the doors of our hearts to you and your church 
in the act of giving our offerings.

We thank you, Risen Christ, 
for moving the hearts of the people to give of themselves. 
May our offerings of service and financial support 
give voice to your work for justice and peace in this world. 
May we grow more mindful of you through our giving and our living.  Amen.

Let us join our voices in thank as we sing “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”. It is the first verse from Voices United 541 and the words will also appear on the screen.

VU #541  DOXOLOGY  “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”

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.

PRAYERS OF THE DAY

Let us centre ourselves prayer…

Our response to each prayer and intention:  Lord, Hear our Prayer

We draw our hearts again to the people of Nova Scotia, family and friends who have lost loved ones in the tragic helicopter crash. Our hearts go our to you. Still reeling from the events of last week, yet another tragedy has been laid upon your hearts. Know that you are embraced by the healing love and grace of Jesus…may it sustain you and hold you in the difficult days and months ahead.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For our seniors, for those living in shelters…for those living in instructional settings…those in oru prisons and jails….we have failed you…we did not ensure that in your vulnerability, you were kept safe….forgive us…now that our eyes and hearts have been opened wide, may we not forget again, that we are only as well and safe as our most vulnerable. Push us to action, for that is our call.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

We pray for our essential workers…those who feed us…those who care for us….those protect us…who keep us safe, yet we do not even  know them by name…they courageously show us each day for work, that we might be safe, be tended to, be protected….let us do our part to keep them safe.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For countries around the world who continue to struggle under the weight of Covid19…Lord touch the hearts of the leaders and politicians, that they make decisions and offer guidance that is the interest of all, unburdened or directed by political aspirations, for it is creation  and your people that need care, not ego, nor ballots in a box…open hearts, eyes, ears and minds that all may work together for the well being of all rather than the few….we also offer thanks for your abundant care and blessing O Lord, in these darkest of days, for you offer hope, light, love and grace to carry us through the night…let us be thankful.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For those in need of your healing love O Lord

those we name aloud) or those we hold silently in our Hearts

(mics will be unmuted, please say name or intention)

Moment of Silence

For all those named…For all intentions offered

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer 

Lord, may our prayers and intentions fall gently upon your ear, grant them O Lord, as you see fit in time, in ways, in blessing and care. Amen

Let us join our hearts and voices as we sing The Lord’s Prayer. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 959

VU #959 LORD’S PRAYER (sung)

Our Father in heaven,

Hallowed be Your name,

Your kingdom come,

Your will be done on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sin,

As we forgive those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

And deliver us from evil,

For the kingdom, the power,

And the glory are yours,

now and forever. Amen

ANNOUNCEMENTS

•         Online Worship next Sunday, May 10 at 11:00am. Our meeting link and ID will now remain the same for each Sunday . By telephone 647 374 4685   or  647 558 0588  and Meeting ID is  : 831 7846 1579  Or click/enter this link on your computer:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579.

•         If you are a senior or know of seniors who needs assistance with groceries, you can call 211 for assistance.

•         Thank you to everyone who participated in our Congregational Consultation on Thursday. Lots of great ideas and suggestions.

•         We are completing the final edits on our Community of Faith profile. We will hold an on-line Zoom Congregational meeting to approve it on Sunday, May 17,2020 following our service.

•         For Pastoral emergencies contact Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136 or by email: HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com

CLOSING PRAYER

(Prayer of St. Richard)

Thanks be to thee, my Lord Jesus Christ,
For all the benefits thou hast given me,
For all the pains and insults thou hast borne for me.
O most merciful redeemer and friend,
May I know thee more clearly,
Love thee more dearly,
And follow thee more nearly, day by day.
Amen.

Let us sing together “I Heard the Voice of Jesus”. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in More Voices # 626

VU #626        “I Heard the Voice of Jesus”

I heard the voice of Jesus say

“Come unto me and rest

Lay down, O weary one, lay down

Your head upon my breast.”

I came to Jesus as I was

Weary and worn and sad

I found in Him a resting place

And he has made me glad.

I heard the voice of Jesus say

“Behold, I freely give,

The living water, thirsty one

Stoop down, and drink and live.”

I came to Jesus, and I drank

Of that life-giving stream,

My thirst was quenched, my soul revived

And now I live in Him.

I heard the voice of Jesus say,

“I am this dark world’s light,

Look unto me, your morn shall rise,

And all your day be bright

I looked to Jesus, and I found

In Him my star, my sun

And in that light of Life I’ll walk

Till traveling days are done.

Let us say together our responsive Benediction

BENEDICTION

You are called for a purpose: 
for the sake of knowing and drawing close toward God
a person bears up under sorrows.
All: We are not here by chance.

You are choice and precious in the sight of God,
and as living stones, your lives are being built up 
into a spiritual sanctuary where the justice and mercy and peace 
of the Risen Christ may dwell. 
All: We are not here by chance.

Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them,
and they follow me; 
and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; 
and no one will snatch them out of my hand.

Jesus, we are the sheep of your pasture.
You have chosen us.
We have chosen you.
We are not here by chance. Amen

BLESSING

May the blessing of our Lord Jesus Christ

Be with you this day

And evermore. Amen

CHORAL BLESSING “Walk in Love”

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE

Please stay with us following the service for a few moments to chat.

Mics will be unmuted so all can say hello.

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our Service of Worship.

Blessings to all and keep safe! 

Hope United.ca

Sunday, April 26, 2020 - Easter III

April 26, 2020 -11:00am -Easter III

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

Supervising Minister – Rev. Karen Dale

PRELUDE TIME

Welcome everyone to our online ZOOM Sunday worship. As you arrive I will leave mics unmuted so that you may say hello. When we begin the service, I will mute all the mics except those who are reading or leading a song.

WELCOME

Welcome everyone. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the minister at Hope United. I am so pleased to have you with us today. Our musician today is Sandy. You can type hellos and greetings at anytime in the chat. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND

With respect, we acknowledge the worldviews, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of the New Credit on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honour the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  We affirm our commitment as Canadian Treaty people to work in right relation toward reconciliation.

GREETING

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Let us join together in our opening song “Open My Eyes, that I May See”. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 371.

VU 371 “Open My Eyes, that I May See”

Open my eyes, that I may see,

Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;

Place in my hands the wonderful key,

That shall unclasp and set me free.

Silently now I wait for Thee, Ready my God, Thy will to see,

Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!

Open my ears, that I may hear

Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;

And while the wave notes fall on my ear,

Everything false will disappear.

Silently now I wait for Thee, Ready my God, Thy will to see,

Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!

Open my mouth, and let me bear,

Gladly the warm truth everywhere;

Open my heart and let me prepare

Love with Thy children thus to share.

Silently now I wait for Thee, Ready my God, Thy will to see,

Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!

CALL TO WORSHIP

We call out to the Spirit who teaches

Come...teach...our ears are open!

We call out to the Spirit who comforts

Come..hold us...our hearts are open!

We call out to the Spirit that guides us...

Come...lead us...our eyes are open! Amen

OPENING PRAYER -

(adapted from the United Church of Christ)

Loving God, we welcome your living presence in our midst. Share our joy and our thanks for the life you give us. with us! Dance among us! Pray with us! Shower us with your love! Help us to seek out the light of Christ, to lift the veil of darkness that we find once more find ourselves Bathed in your healing love and light. In Jesus name we pray. Amen!

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world. May it burn brightly within us all. Amen

“ Candle of Light” by Brian Stevens

Light from this candle burning bright

Light our way through dark of night.

Help us find our way to you

Guide us, touch us with your Light O Lord

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Heavenly Stranger, our Companion on the Way, we yearn for your love and grace. We seek your wisdom and guidance. We relish the joy which burns within our hearts when you are with us. Yet, sometimes we would cling to you, hoard the blessings of relationship with you, and not share your love with others. Forgive us, Dear One. Remind us that your love is to be carried throughout the world. Press us to share the hope and joy of your love, so that someone who hungers for spiritual food may be filled by our witness to your grace. Shine the light of your Spirit through us, so that we may show Your Way those who long for peace and help to revive those in whom hope has died. Amen.

ASSURANCE OF GRACE

God may come to us, unrecognized, as a stranger. Enwrapped in a simple gesture of kindness or comforting word or boldly as an unexpected miracle laid before our very eyes. The Risen Christ reaches out to us in unexpected ways as we travel our own Emmaus roads. May the Word of our Still-speaking God continue to burn in our hearts. Amen

Let us sing together, three times through, the Gloria. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 37.

VU #37 “GLORIA”   (SUNG THREE TIMES THROUGH)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

May the Peace of Christ be with you always.

And also with you.

Let us take a moment to greet one another! Please type your greetings into the chat.

MUSIC MINISTRY

“In Christ Alone” by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend

FIRST READING

Acts 2:14a, 36-41

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

VU 836                 PSALM  116

Refrain - How can I repay you God, for all the goodness you show to me?

I love you, God, because you heard my voice when I made supplication

Because you turned your ear to me,

When I called your name.

The cords of death entangled me

And the pangs of the Grave laid hold on me

I suffered distress and anguish

Then I called upon the name of God:

“O God, I pray, save my life”

Refrain – How can I repay you God, for all the goodness you show to me?

How can I repay you, God

For all the good things you have done for me?

I will take the cup of salvation

And call upon the name of God

I will pay my vows in the presence of all God’s people.

Refrain – How can I repay you God, for all the goodness you show to me?

Precious in the sight of God is the death of the saints

O God I am your servant,

I am your servant, the child of your maidservant.

You have freed me from my bonds

I will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving

And will call upon the name of God

I will pay my vows to God in the presence of all God’s people

In the courts of the house of God, in your midst, O Jerusalem

Refrain – How can I repay you God, for all the goodness you show to me?

GOSPEL  

Luke 24:13-35

Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him. He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”

They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” “What things?” he asked.

“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”

They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

MUSIC MINISTRY

“ All in the April Evening” sung by Marion Burt

REFLECTION: “DO WE RECOGNIZE JESUS?”

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

Jesus, God has made you both Sovereign and Christ. Therefore we pray your blessing upon the gifts we offer. We pray your blessing upon the abundance of creation. We pray your blessing upon us, and all those whose lives will benefit from the gifts shared this day. May your victory over death empower all whom you call to trust in God. In faith and hope we pray. Amen.

Let us join our voices in thanks as we sing “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”.

VU 541 DOXOLOGY   “PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW “

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.

PRAYERS OF THE DAY

Let us centre ourselves prayer...

Our response to each prayer and intention: Lord, Hear our Prayer

We pray for the people of Nova Scotia, family and friends who have lost loved ones in the tragic shooting this week, the officers who lost their lives, and our first responders as we struggle to make sense out of this senseless act. Lives and been changed and altered...families will never be the same...a quiet village will wrestle always in the dark of night that such an event could take place in their town, is incomprehensible. Guide us Lord to place, to a time, to a way of living that no longer requires guns...Our hearts are broken...move us to hold and care for those left behind to pick up the pieces of lives splintered and fractured by this tragedy....

We pray to the Lord...

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For our seniors, for those living in shelters...we have heard a call to action...they are so vulnerable Lord, and we must ensure that they too are cared for, that they are safe, that every effort is made to make their homes and shelters as safe as our own. Lord, forgive us for we have been complacent, letting “others do the work”, letting others “bear the responsibility”, yet it rest upon all of our shoulders, for we walk Christ’s path, one of unconditional love and care...remind us and cajole us into action ...

We pray to the Lord...

Lord, Hear our Prayer

We pray again, we pray constantly for all who care for us...the people of the world, doctors and nurses, social workers, cleaners and caretakers, personal care assistants, cashiers and shelf stockers, police and fire workers, ambulance attendants, lab technicians and so many more that should also be named. Like Jesus, they place their life upon a cross each day for us...people they may not know nor meet, yet are ready to offer their hands and skills in our care...keep them safe, bless those who have lost their lives and welcome them to your embrace O Lord...

We pray to the Lord...

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For countries around the world who continue to struggle under the weight of Covid19...Ecuador, Brazil, the United States, Italy, Spain, France, Iran, The United Kingdom, and for those who fear that which lies before them...the countries of Africa, Russia and Asia

We pray to the Lord...

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For those in need of your healing love O Lord

those we name aloud (please unmute and say name or intention) or those we hold silently in our Hearts

Moment of Silence

For all those named...For all intentions offered

We pray to the Lord...

Lord, Hear our Prayer

Lord, may our prayers and intentions fall gently upon your ear, grant them O Lord, as you see fit in time, in ways, in blessing and care. Amen

Let us join our hearts and voices as we sing The Lord’s Prayer. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in Voices United # 959

VU 959 LORD’S PRAYER (SUNG)

Our Father in heaven,

Hallowed be Your name,

Your kingdom come,

Your will be done on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sin,

As we forgive those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

And deliver us from evil,

For the kingdom, the power,

And the glory are yours,

now and forever. Amen

ANNOUNCEMENTS

•         Online Worship next Sunday, May 3 at 11:00am

•         The draft of our Community of Faith Profile is ready for your review. It was attached in the email with the order of services and is also posted on our website HopeUnited.ca. We would now need your comments, ideas, input and questions. Please send them via email to HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com or call Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136

•         If you are a senior or know of seniors who need assistance with groceries, you can call 211 for assistance.

•         For Pastoral emergencies contact Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136 or by email: HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com

CLOSING PRAYER

Friends, rejoice in the mothering and fathering love of God! Rejoice in the victorious life of our Risen Saviour! Rejoice in the power of the Spirit! Go, living in the love of Christ! Go, serving in the name of Christ! Let your love of God embrace all whom you encounter....Those who are afar off...Those who are strangers met on the road...May your lives praise the Lord! AMEN.

Let us sing together “And On this Path”. The words will also appear on your screen and it is also in More Voices # 8

MV # 8 “And On this Path”

And on this path, the gates of holiness are open wide,

And on this path, the gates of holiness are open wide,

And on this path, the gates of holiness are open wide

Open wide, open wide, open wide the gates are open wide.

So enter in, the gates of holiness are open wide,

So enter in, the gates of holiness are open wide,

So enter in, the gates of holiness are open wide,

Enter in, Enter in, Enter in, the gates are open wide

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING

Go forth into the world

Walking in the light and love

Of the Risen Christ

Moving with compassion and care

Sustained by the unconditional love of Christ

And may the blessing of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Our Creator God and Holy Spirit…

Be with you this day and evermore. Amen

CHORAL BLESSING “WALK IN LOVE”

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE

 

Please stay with us following the service for a few moments to chat.

Mics will be unmuted so all can say hello

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our Service of Worship.

Blessings to all and keep safe!

Hope United.ca

Sunday, April 19, 2020 - Easter II

April 19, 2020

11:00am

Easter II

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

Supervising Minister – Rev. Karen Dale

PRELUDE  & WELCOME

Welcome everyone to our online ZOOM Sunday worship. My name is Brian Stevens. Our musician today is Sandy Thorburn. Except when you are reading a prayer or leading a song, I would ask that you please keep your mic muted. You can type hello’s and greetings at anytime. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND

With respect, we acknowledge the worldviews, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of the New Credit on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honour the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  We affirm our commitment as Canadian Treaty people to work in right relation toward reconciliation.

GREETING

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Our opening song is “Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Give Thanks!”. It is found in Voices United # 178 and the words will also appear on your screen.

VU 178        “HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, GIVE THANKS!”

Hallelujah, hallelujah, Give thanks to the risen Christ

Hallelujah, hallelujah! Give praise to His name.

Jesus is Lord of all the earth

Firstborn of all creation.

Hallelujah, hallelujah, Give thanks to the risen Christ

Hallelujah, hallelujah! Give praise to His name.

Spread the good news o’er all the earth

Jesus has died and is risen.

Hallelujah, hallelujah, Give thanks to the risen Christ

Hallelujah, hallelujah! Give praise to His name.

We have been crucified with Christ

Now we shall live for ever.

Hallelujah, hallelujah, Give thanks to the risen Christ

Hallelujah, hallelujah! Give praise to His name.

Come let us praise the living God

Joyfully sing to our Saviour.

Hallelujah, hallelujah, Give thanks to the risen Christ

Hallelujah, hallelujah! Give praise to His name.

CALL TO WORSHIP

Sing a new song!
A springtime shout-out to life!

Sing praise to our joyful Easter God
Whose power brings new life out of death!

Immerse doubt and despair in the fountain of new birth
Find refreshment and strength for a future of hope!

For God has taken ordinary things
And made them extraordinary:

Sing a New Song!

OPENING PRAYER – (TESS)

(United Church of Christ)

Holy God, 
Nothing is beyond your power to transform!
In a gray dawn, you coax songs of Alleluia!
From the tombs of despair we take refuge in
You call us to wake up and work. 
We praise you for this amazing day! 
Come, Risen Christ, 
in newness and hope on this Eastertide morning. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world.

May it burn brightly within us all. Amen

“ Candle of Light” by Brian Stevens (sung twice)

Light from this candle burning bright

Light our way through dark of night.

Help us find our way to you

Guide us, touch us with your Light O Lord

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Redeeming God, 
with you there is always more life, more hope, more joy. 

When doubt assails us, and we fail to recognize you at work in our lives, 
Lord, have mercy!

When fear impairs our faith, and our eyes and ears and hearts 
do not know you, Christ, have mercy! 

When anger and sorrow stop us from doing the risky work of love, 
Lord, have mercy!

ASSURANCE OF GRACE

Within every kernel of doubt, there is a spark of life and hope. 
In those times when our faith falters, 
when we cannot recognize the presence of the Holy among us, 
God takes our faith and transforms it, 
patiently showing us the many ways Christ walks among us. 
Look around you: 
as close as your own beating heart, 
and in the eyes of your nearest neighbor, 
grace abounds at the heart of all life. 
You are all God’s children, loved without condition, 
go in that peace. Amen.

VU 37 “GLORIA”   (SUNG THREE TIMES THROUGH)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

The Peace of Christ be with you always.

And also with you.

FIRST READING          ACTS 2:14A, 22–32

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say.

Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.  But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.  David said about him:

“‘I saw the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest in hope, because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead,  you will not let your holy one see decay. You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.’

“Fellow Israelites, I can tell you confidently that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is here to this day.  But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that he would place one of his descendants on his throne. Seeing what was to come, he spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, that he was not abandoned to the realm of the dead, nor did his body see decay.  God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

VU 738                 PSALM  16

Refrain - Psalm 16 - M. Christian T. Strover 1973

“Protect me, God: I trust in you.”

Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.

I have said to God, “You are my God;

from you alone comes all my prosperity.”

All my delight is in the faithful who dwell in the land,

and in those who excel in virtue.

But as for those who run after other gods,

their troubles shall be multiplied.

Libations of blood I will not offer to those gods,

nor will I take their names upon my lips. R

You, God, are my allotted portion and my cup;

you yourself have cast my lot.

My boundaries enclose a pleasant land;

indeed I have a noble heritage.

I will thank you, God, for giving me counsel;

at night also you teach my heart.

I keep you always before me;

you are on my right hand, therefore I shall not fall. R

So my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices;

for my body shall also rest in safety.

For you will not surrender me to the Grave,

nor suffer your beloved to see the Abyss.

You will show me the path of life.

In your presence is fullness of joy;

and from your right hand flow delights for evermore. R

GOSPEL          JOHN 20:19-31

When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.”  After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side.

Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.  Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”  When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.  If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”

But Thomas (who was called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.”

A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.”  Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!”  Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”

Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

MV 84 “IN YOU THERE IS A REFUGE”

In you, there is a refuge; in you we find our peace.

When all we know is chaos may our trust in you increase.

In you there is a silence, in you our minds are clear.

When all we hear is discord may your quiet draw us near

In you there is a vision, in you we learn to dream.

When All we see is desert my you be our living stream

In you there is a future, in you we find our way.

When hope has shed its brightness may you show us a new way.

REFLECTION:  “BLESSING AND FORGIVENESS”     BRIAN STEVENS BA MDIV

MUSIC MINISTRY  “ ALL IN AN APRIL EVENING” SUNG BY MARION BURTG

DOXOLOGY VU 541  “PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW “

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

Loving God, can a  generous prayer be lifted up to you this Eastertide? 
Can these gifts, given with love, 
be further transformed like echoes of grace, 
delighting all who receive their blessings? 
May it be so, through the surprising  power of your Holy Spirit!
May our lives speak of a loving God, 
full of Easter surprises. Amen.

 VU 959 LORD’S PRAYER (SUNG)

Our Father in heaven,

Hallowed be Your name,

Your kingdom come,

Your will be done on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sin,

As we forgive those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

And deliver us from evil,

For the kingdom, the power,

And the glory are yours,

now and forever. Amen

PRAYERS OF THE DAY

Response:  Lord, Hear our Prayer

We pray for patience, care and compassion. My they be the cornerstone of how we move in the world each day. Patience to remain at home and keep others safe, care for all those in need, and compassion for all those who struggle

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For the blessing that is spring…..soon to be upon us, the renewal and refreshing of creation , our spirit and our very souls. Stirred by the risen Lord, may we welcome the rebirth of nature into our hearts and minds, every thankful of the incredible abundance that is creation. Looking forward to the buds and leave son the trees and the glorious fruits and vegetables that begin to spout, open and rise again.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

We pray again and cons tartly for all who care for the people of the world, doctors and nurses, social workers, cleaners and caretakers, personal care assistants, cashiers and shelf stockers , police and fire workers, Ambulance attendants, lab technicians and so many more that should also be named. Like Jesus, they place their life upon a cross each day for us…people they may not know nor meet, yet are ready to offer their hands and skills in our care…keep them safe, bless those who have lost their lives and welcome them to your embrace O Lord

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For countries around the world who continue to struggle under the weight of covid 19… for residents and staff of long term care and seniors facilities. The tragic cost to vulnerable has been high…hold the families and caregivers in the palm of your hand O GOD

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For those in need of your healing love O Lord

those we name aloud ( please unmute and say name or intention) or those we hold silently in our hearts.

Moment of Silence

For all those named…For all intentions offered

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

•         Online Worship next Sunday, April 26 at 11:00am

•         For Pastoral emergencies contact Brian Stevens at 647-825-5136

•         We will need to schedule an Online congregational and annual meeting in the coming weeks/month

•         We will need your feedback on our Community of Faith Profile over the next two weeks.  It will be available shortly on our website: HopeUnited.ca . We can email or mail a copy. Please let us know how you would like to receive it

•         If you are a senior or know of a seniors who needs assistance with groceries, you can call 211 for assistance.

CLOSING PRAYER

God of new Life, Christ came speaking words of peace and understanding.

Thank you for strengthening our faith

and empowering us to live with hope and trust in you day by day.

We are grateful that you give us courage to face our fears and struggles, patience to endure moments when the way ahead is not clear,

and resilience in the face of new realities.

MV  212 “SENT OUT IN JESUS’ NAME”      

Sent out in Jesus’ name, our hands are ready now

To make the world the place in which the kingdom comes

Sent out in Jesus’ name, our hands are ready now

To make the world the place in which the kingdom comes

The angels cannot change a world of hurt and pain

Into a world of love, of justice and of peace

The task is ours to do,

To set it really free, O help us to obey,

And carry out your will.

The angels cannot change a world of hurt and pain

Into a world of love, of justice and of peace

The task is ours to do,

To set it really free, O help us to obey,

And carry out your will.

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING

Go forth into the world

Walking in the light and love

Of the Risen Christ

Moving with compassion and care

Sustained by the unconditional love of Christ

And may the blessing of our

Lord Jesus Christ,

Our Creator God and

Holy Spirit…

Be with you this day and evermore. Amen

CHORAL BLESSING “WALK IN LOVE”

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE

 

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our  Service of Worship.

Easter Blessings to all and keep safe!

Hope United.ca

Sunday, April 12, 2020 - Easter Sunday

April 12, 2020

11:00am

Easter Sunday

The Congregation of Hope United Church

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

Supervising Minister – Rev. Karen Dale

PRELUDE  & WELCOME

Welcome everyone to our very first online ZOOM Sunday worship. My name is Brian Stevens. Our musician today is Sandy Thorburn. Except when you are reading a prayer or leading a song, I would ask that you please keep your mic muted. You can type hello’s and greetings at anytime. A copy of the order of service was mailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our website HopeUnited.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND

With respect, we acknowledge the worldviews, spirituality, history and stewardship of the Mississauga of the New Credit on whose traditional lands our church resides.  We thank and honour the other indigenous peoples who share this land.  We affirm our commitment as Canadian Treaty people to work in right relation toward reconciliation.

GREETING

I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship. Our opening song is Christ is Risen from the dead. It is found in Voices United # 167 and the words will also appear on your screen.

VU 167        “Christ is Risen from the Dead!”

Christ is risen from the dead, glory, hallelujah ( 2X)

Jesus Christ is risen, glory, hallelujah  (2X)

God the Spirit dwells within us, glory, hallelujah (2X)

God the Spirit with us glory, hallelujah ( 2X)

CALL TO WORSHIP

We come to this place,
seeking Jesus in the familiar story of our faith.
Do not meet us only here, O Living Christ, 
but surprise us with Resurrection power
in all the places of our lives!

We gather together to sing and pray the story we know by heart, 
a story of loving triumph and powerful grace.
This story of “Alleluia!” means great joy 
for the One who lives and the ones who witness to this new life in all the places of our lives!

We rejoice and thank you for the life of your son, 
resurrected by the power of your loving, vibrant Spirit.
Let this same Spirit fill all the places of our lives, 
that we may know the truth of resurrection for the rest of our lives!

We join our hearts in song and sing  “Alleluia! Gracious Jesus!”  for Christ is living and so are we!
Alleluia indeed!

OPENING PRAYER

Good News God, your angels appeared to the faithful women of Jesus’  company, 
bringing them news more wonderful and awe-inspiring than they could imagine –  Christ is Risen! 
Surely your angels can interrupt our lives, too,  breaking into our losses and sorrows 
and offering a message of tremendous joy to change our lives! 

Come this Easter morning, we pray, and fill us with the joy of the women disciples, 
the first witnesses to your resurrection, that our lives may also be renewed in hope and glory. 
Let us roll back the stone of the grave and sing Alleluia once again! 
In Christ we pray, Amen. 

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE

We light this candle as a symbol of Christ’s light in the world. May it burn brightly within us all. Amen

 PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God, we confess to you 
that while we know well the story of your victory over the grave, 
it is not a story we always live. 
We are dragged down by all manner of death – 
Fear may suffocate us: the loss of dreams and hopes 
for ourselves, our families, our communities and our nation. 
Sorrow may wall us off like a grave, 
isolating us with anger, frustration, and grief. 

Silence

Yet the stories of our faith are inscribed 
not with the marks of death, 
but with the word, “Alleluia!” 
So on this Easter morning, 
we pray that you will fill us with “fear and great joy” 
so that, like those women who came to the tomb expecting death, 
we may instead find the radiant new life 
that is ever before us in your Resurrection! Amen.

ASSURANCE OF GRACE

Just as Christ did not come to condemn but to liberate, 
so too is Christ raised from death not to judge but to celebrate. 
Cast off the yoke of sorrow and instead raise up the scepter of joy – 
Christ lives! We live! All is made new on this Resurrection morning!
Response: Alleluia and amen!

“Gloria”   Voices United # 37 ( sung three times through)

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

       The Peace of Christ be with you always.

       And also with you.

“ Draw the Circle Wide”  More Voices # 145

Refrain:

Draw the circle wide,

Draw it wider still.

Let this be our song,

No one stands alone,

Standing side by side,

Draw the circle wide.

God the still-point of the circle,

‘Round whom all creation turns;

Nothing lost, but held forever,

In God’s gracious arms

Refrain:

Draw the circle wide,

Draw it wider still.

Let this be our song,

No one stands alone,

Standing side by side,

Draw the circle wide

Let our hearts touch far horizons

So encompass great and small;

Let our loving know no borders,

Faithful to God’s call.

Refrain:

Draw the circle wide,

Draw it wider still.

Let this be our song,

No one stands alone,

Standing side by side,

Draw the circle wide.

Let the dreams we dream be larger,

Than we’ve ever dreamed before;

Let the dream of Christ be in us,

Open every door.

Refrain:

Draw the circle wide,

Draw it wider still.

Let this be our song,

No one stands alone,

Standing side by side,

Draw the circle wide.

FIRST READING        Colossians 3: 1-4

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.  Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

This is the Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

PSALM 118 VU 837

Refrain:      Hallelujah, hallelujah!!

Let Israel say:

          “God’s love endures forever”

Let the House of Aaron say:

          “God’s love endures forever”

Let those who fear God say:

          “God’s love endures forever”

Refrain:      Hallelujah, hallelujah!

God is my strength and my song. God has become my salvation.

          There are shouts of joy and deliverance in the tents of the righteous

The right hand of God does mighty things, the right hand of God raises up

          The right hand of God does mighty things

I shall not die, but live, and I shall proclaim what God has done

          God indeed punished me, but did not give me over to death.

 Refrain:      Hallelujah, hallelujah!

Open to me the gates of the temple, that I may enter and give thanks to God

          This is the gate of God, through it the righteous shall enter

I thank you for you have answered me, you have become my salvation

          The stone which the builders rejected

          Has become the cornerstone

This is God’s doing, marvelous in our eyes

          This is the day that God has made

          Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Refrain:      Hallelujah, hallelujah!

Save us, O GOD, we pray

          God, we pray, give us success

Blessed is the one who come sin the name of God

          We bless you from the house of God

God, our God has given us light

          With palm branches in hand let us march to the altar

You are my God , and I will thank you

          You are my God, and I will extol you

Refrain:      Hallelujah, hallelujah!

GOSPEL             Matthew 28: 1-10

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it.  His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.  Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”

So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him.  Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

Hear the Good News of Christ!

Praise to you, O Christ.

“Where Two or Three are Gathered”  More Voices  # 14

( sung three times)

Where two or three are gathered in my name,

I am there, I am there.

REFLECTION:  “Love One Another” Brian Stevens BA MDiv

Once again I would like to welcome everyone and thank them for being with us this morning. By this time we would usually have completed our first service and had an Easter breakfast together. These are not usual time. This is an Easter unlike any other we all have journeyed through. The parallels with COVID 19 and the world within Christ moved on a daily basis have much to teach us.

Tragedy and high death due to disease were not uncommon…to have many without access to medicine, to have shortages of food and basics need to sustain life….the descriptors ,equipment and foodstuffs may have changed, but out basic needs have not….

I offer daily prayers of thanks that I/ we are blessed to live in Canada, knowing or imagining that if I or one of our congregants were to fall ill, they would be offered the very best care that is available, regardless of which neighborhood we call home, that the ambulance will take us even if we don’t have private insurance or a visa card with a $10,000 limit…in this matter we are truly blessed

Yet we can do more…. we can do better.

There are vulnerable sections of our population who are at risk, many who provide us with essential services have risked much these past weeks…at first not having gloves and masks or partitions in grocery stores at the cash….our front line health care workers in hospitals’, long term care facilities , shelters not having the PPE to work safe, keep safe and ensure their clients and patients are kept safe.

Now is a time of care….now is a time of extraordinary generosity…the weeks and months ahead will strain us…yet we must press on, sharing our stories, listening with both heart and ears, little gestures really count…each piece of kindness that you can add to the abundance of good will is a joyous event. Check up on each other…check up on family, neighbours and friends, minimize our travels and keep safe distance. Our patience is being tested….Jesus did not give up on us…we must not give up on each other

Jesus laid down his life for us, and in this extraordinary gesture he called upon us to love one another…we have no time to wait…the time is now….love one another….be creative…be thoughtful….rejoice…for Christ is Risen this day. It is an extraordinary day and we are so blessed with your company and care. Amen

MUSIC MINISTRY   No One Heard and Angel Sing

DOXOLOGY    Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow  Voices United  # 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

Lord we are ever thankful for the abundance of creation,

the gifts of each other,

the gift of your presence in our lives.

Bless our ministry of care with heartfelt compassion

In Jesus name we pray. Amen

 LORD’S PRAYER (sung) Voices United # 959

Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be Your name,

Your kingdom come,

Your will be done on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins as we forgive

those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

and deliver us from evil,

for the kingdom, the power,

and the glory are yours,

now and forever.

Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE DAY

Response:  Lord, Hear our Prayer

When our faith stands at the grave, grieving for a stone that's rolled away,
forgive us. When our faith is short of understanding,  though the truth is there to see,
forgive us.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

When our faith, beset by doubt, sees no further than an empty tomb today,
forgive us.Bring to mind the cry of Mary, ‘I have seen the Lord!'
and grant us faith to believe!

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For all who care for the people of the world, doctors and nurses, social workers, cleaners and caretakers, personal care assistants, cashiers and shelf stockers , police and fire workers, Ambulance attendants, lab technicians and so many more that should also be named. Like Jesus, they place their life upon a cross each day for us…people they may not know nor meet, yet are ready to offer their hands and skills in our care…keep them safe, bless those who have lost their lives and welcome them to your embrace O Lord.

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer 

For countries around the world who struggle under the weight of COVID 19, Italy, Spain, France, United Kingdom, Iran, Ecuador, The United States, Germany ( please name others) we offer our prayers and support. Stir us to action…

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer

For those in need of your healing love O Lord,

those we name aloud ( please type into chat) or those we hold silently in our hearts

Moment of Silence

For all those named…

We pray to the Lord…

Lord, Hear our Prayer 

“One Bread, One Body”      Voices United # 467

Refrain:

One bread, one body, one Lord of all,

One cup of blessing which we bless

And we, though many, throughout the earth,

we are one body in this one Lord.

Gentile or Jew,

servant or free,

woman or man,

no more.

Refrain:

One bread, one body, one Lord of all,

One cup of blessing which we bless

And we, though many, throughout the earth,

we are one body in this one Lord.

Many the gifts,

many the works,

one in the Lord

of all.

Refrain:

One bread, one body, one Lord of all,

One cup of blessing which we bless

And we, though many, throughout the earth,

we are one body in this one Lord.

Grain for the fields,

scattered and grown,

gathered to one,

for all.

Refrain:

One bread, one body, one Lord of all,

One cup of blessing which we bless

And we, though many, throughout the earth,

we are one body in this one Lord.

SERVICE OF COMMUNION

God be with you

     And also with you

Lift up your hearts

     We lift our hearts in prayer

Let us give thanks to God

      It is good to give God thanks and praise

Loving God, source of all, we thank you and praise you with our lips and with our lives, that, having created us and all things through your word, you welcome our prayer and praise. For the goodness of creation and the glory of redemption we praise you. For your risen presence on this day we thank you as we are grateful for the law and prophets who came before you.

Therefore, with all that is seen and unseen, and with all the faithful of every time and place, we join in this hymn of praise and thanksgiving:

More Voices #203

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                

Loving God, Holy one, we offer our praise and thanksgiving over this bread and cup, because in Jesus Christ you have joined yourself forever with us, uniting heaven and earth. Now, therefore, we gratefully remember:

Jesus’ birth into our humanity,

Baptism for our sin,

Compassion for our suffering,

Intimacy with our fragility,

Rebuke of our pride,

Bearing the cross with its death,

And rising from the tomb by the power of God.

On the night before he died, Jesus took a loaf of bread, gave you thanks, broke it and said Take, eat, this is my body broken for you. Each time you do this, remember me. Then Jesus took a cup, and having given thanks, he passed it to his friends saying: Drink. This cup is the new covenant in my blood, do this in remembrance of me. Let us proclaim the mystery of faith:

More Voices # 204 ( sung twice)

Sing Christ has died,  Christ has risen.  Christ will come again

Loving God, come to us and bless these gifts of bread and wine that they may be for us the body and blood of Christ; the sign and seal of our forgiveness in him and our adoption as the children of God.. As we eat and drink together, on this happy day, make us one with Christ and one in Christ, a sign of his eternal reign in the world.

This sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving we offer you, loving God, though Jesus Christ our Saviour, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen

Sharing the bread and cup

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

Life-giving God may we who share in Christ’s body live his risen life;

We, who drink this cup, bring new life to others;

We, whom the Spirit lights, give light to the world.

Keep us firm in the hope you have set before us,

So that we, and all your children, may be free,

And all creation lived to praise your name.

Great Amen

More Voices # 205

Amen, amen O Holy One, Hosanna and Amen!

Amen, amen O Holy One, Hosanna and Amen!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

“Jesus Christ is Risen Today”     Voices United  # 155

Jesus Christ is risen today, Hallelujah! our triumphant holy day, Hallelujah!

who did once upon the cross, Hallelujah! suffer to redeem our loss, Hallelujah!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Hallelujah! Unto Christ, our heavenly King, Hallelujah!

who endured the cross and grave, Hallelujah! Sinners to redeem and save, Hallelujah!

But the pains which he endured, Hallelujah! Our salvation have procured, Hallelujah!

now above the sky he’s King, Hallelujah! Where the angels ever sing, Hallelujah!

Sing we to our God above, Hallelujah! Praise eternal as God’s love, Hallelujah!

praise our God, ye heavenly host, Hallelujah! Praise the Son and Holy Ghost, Hallelujah!

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING

Go forth into the world

Walking in the light and love

Of the Risen Christ

Moving with compassion and care

Sustained by the unconditional love of Christ

And may the blessing of our

Lord Jesus Christ,

Our Creator God and

Holy Spirit…

Be with you this Easter Day. Amen

CHORAL BLESSING “Walk in Love”

Walk in love as you go into the world,

Walk in peace with everyone you meet,

May God’s grace touch your heart, mind and soul…

This day and evermore,

Amen. Amen, Alleluia and Amen!

POSTLUDE

Thank you to everyone who assisted with our Easter Worship.

Easter Blessings to all and keep safe!

Hope United.ca

Friday, April 10, 2020 - Good Friday

HOPE UNITED CHURCH

2550 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, Ontario

Good Friday April 10, 2020 3:00pm

Worship Leadership - Brian Stevens MDiv

CALL TO WORSHIP

This is a day of sorrows…

For they have crucified my Lord!

I have lost my teacher and friend…

For they crucified my Lord!

A crown of thorns upon his head…

When they crucified my Lord!

PRAYER

Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ was lifted high upon the cross

so that he might draw the whole world to himself.

Grant that we might attend his call, take up our cross and follow him;

This we pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

“Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” Voices United # 142 2 verses

Jesus keep me near the cross, there a precious mountain

Free to all, a healing stream flows from Calvary’s mountain

In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever

Till my raptured soul shall find rest beyond the river.

Near the cross a trembling soul, love and mercy found me

There the bright and morning star sheds its beams around me

In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever

Till my raptured soul shall find rest beyond the river.

PRAYER

God of Light, God of Shadow, in our time together today,

keep us aware of your presence in the darkness,

help us to see meaning in this terrible story,

and keep the fire of hope alive in our hearts.

This we pray in the name of the man from Nazareth,

the one who lived with a great passion for your way,

the one whose death is nigh, the one who taught his friends 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 trespasses,

As we forgive them that trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom,

The power, and the glory,

For ever and ever. Amen.

FIRST READING Hebrews 10:16-25

“This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” Then he adds: “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.” And where these have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary.

Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

This is the Word of the LORD.

Thanks be to God.

Psalm 22 Voices United # 744

Refrain: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? ( 2X)

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

Why are you so far from helping me,

from my cries of my distress?

O my God, I cry out in the day, but you do not answer,

at night, also but I get no relief.

Refrain: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

But you are the Holy One;

enthroned upon the praises of Israel.

In you our ancestors trusted;

they trusted and you delivered them.

They called to you, and you delivered them

In you they put their trust

And you did not disappoint them

But I am a worm, less than human

an object of derision an outcast of the people.

All who see me laugh me to scorn

they curl their lips and toss their heads, saying

You trusted in God for deliverance

If God cares for you, let God rescue you!

Refrain: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

Do not be far from me for trouble is close at hand

And there is no one to help me

Many bulls encircle me, string bulls of Bashan surround me

They open wide their mouths at me

Like a ravenous roaring lion

My life pours out like water

All my bones are out of joint

My heart has melted like wax within my breast

My mouth is parched as dry clay

My tongue clings to my palette.

I lie in the dust of death.

Dogs surround me

The wicked hem me in on every side

They bind my hands and my feet

I can count all of my bones

While they stand staring, gloating over me

They divide my garments amongst themselves

They cast lots for my clothing

Refrain: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

GOSPEL John 18-19

Jesus Arrested

When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it. Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.

Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) 6 When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said

Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.” This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.” Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.)

Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound him and brought him first to Annas, who was the father-inlaw of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

“What Wondrous Love Is This” Voices United # 147

What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this,

That caused the Lord of bliss,

To bear the dreadful curse,

For my soul, for my soul,

To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.

What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this,

That caused the Lord of life to

Lay aside his crown for my soul, for my soul

To Lay aside his crown for my soul, for my soul

Peter’s First Denial

Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Because this disciple was known to the high priest, he went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard, but Peter had to wait outside at the door. The other disciple, who was known to the high priest, came back, spoke to the servant girl on duty there and brought Peter in. “You aren’t one of this man’s disciples too, are you?” she asked Peter. He replied, “I am not.” It was cold, and the servants and officials stood around a fire they had made to keep warm. Peter also was standing with them, warming himself.

The High Priest Questions Jesus

Meanwhile, the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. “I have spoken openly to the world,” Jesus replied. “I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I said nothing in secret. Why question me? Ask those who heard me. Surely they know what I said.” When Jesus said this, one of the officials nearby slapped him in the face. “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” he demanded. “If I said something wrong,” Jesus replied, “testify as to what is wrong. But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?” Then Annas sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

Peter’s Second and Third Denials

Meanwhile, Simon Peter was still standing there warming himself. So they asked him, “You aren’t one of his disciples too, are you? He denied it, saying, “I am not.” One of the high priest’s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, “Didn’t I see you with him in the garden?” 27Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow.

Jesus Before Pilate

Then the Jewish leaders took Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness they did not enter the palace, because they wanted to be able to eat the Passover. So Pilate came out to them and asked, “What charges are you bringing against this man?”

“If he were not a criminal,” they replied, “we would not have handed him over to you.” Pilate said, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” “But we have no right to execute anyone,” they objected. This took place to fulfill what Jesus had said about the kind of death he was going to die.

Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” “Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?” “Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed you over to me. What is it you have done?” Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

“You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” “What is truth?” retorted Pilate. With this he went out again to the Jews gathered there and said, “I find no basis for a charge against him. But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release ‘the king of the Jews’?” They shouted back, “No, not him! Give us Barabbas!” Now Barabbas had taken part in an uprising.

Jesus Sentenced to Be Crucified

Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe and went up to him again and again, saying, “Hail, king of the Jews!” And they slapped him in the face.

Once more Pilate came out and said to the Jews gathered there, “Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him.” When Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, Pilate said to them, “Here is the man!”

As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” But Pilate answered, “You take him and crucify him. As for me, I find no basis for a charge against him.” The Jewish leaders insisted, “We have a law, and according to that law he must die, because he claimed to be the Son of God.” When Pilate heard this, he was even more afraid, and he went back inside the palace. “Where do you come from?” he asked Jesus, but Jesus gave him no answer. “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”

Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.”

From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jewish leaders kept shouting, “If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar.” When Pilate heard this, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judge’s seat at a place known as the Stone Pavement (which in Aramaic is Gabbatha). It was the day of Preparation of the Passover; it was about noon.

“Here is your king,” Pilate said to the Jews. But they shouted, “Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!” “Shall I crucify your king?” Pilate asked. “We have no king but Caesar,” the chief priests answered. Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified.

“Jesus, Remember Me” Voices United 148

Jesus, remember me when I come into your kingdom,

Jesus, remember me when I come into your kingdom.

The Crucifixion of Jesus

So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). There they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle.

Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, “Do not write ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that this man claimed to be king of the Jews.” Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”

When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. “Let’s not tear it,” they said to one another. “Let’s decide by lot who will get it.” This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled that said, “They divided my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.” So this is what the soldiers did. Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

The Death of Jesus

Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Were You There When They Crucified My Lord Piano Solo

Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?

Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?

Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble

Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jewish leaders did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.”

The Burial of Jesus

Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

Hear the Good News of Christ.

Praise to you, O Christ

LAMENTATIONS

O my people, what have I done to you, or in what have I offended you?

I led you forth from the land of Egypt and delivered you by the waters of baptism, but you have prepared a cross for your Savior.

Holy and immortal One, have mercy upon us.

I led you through the desert forty years and fed you with manna; I brought you through times of persecution and of renewal and gave you my body, the bread of heaven; but you have prepared a cross for your Savior.

Holy and immortal One, have mercy upon us.

I made you branches of my vineyard and gave you the water of salvation, but when I was thirsty you gave me vinegar and gall and pierced with a spear the side of your Savior.

Holy and immortal One, have mercy upon us.

My peace I gave, which the world cannot give, and washed your feet as a servant, but you draw the sword to strike in my name and seek high places in my kingdom.

Holy and immortal One, have mercy upon us.

I accepted the cup of suffering and death for your sakes, but you scatter and deny and abandon me. I sent the Spirit of truth to lead you, but you close your hearts to guidance.

Holy and immortal One, have mercy upon us.

I called you to go and bring forth fruit, but you cast lots for my clothing. I prayed that you all may be one, but you continue to quarrel and divide.

Holy and immortal One, have mercy upon us.

I came to you as the least of your brothers and sisters. I was hungry but you gave me no food, thirsty but you gave me no drink. I was a stranger but you did not welcome me, naked but you did not clothe me, and in prison but you did not visit me.

Holy and immortal One, have mercy upon us.

“O Sacred Head Surrounded” Voices United # 145

O Sacred Head, surrounded

by crown of piercing thorn!

O bleeding Head, so wounded,

reviled and put to scorn!

Our sins have marred the glory

of Thy most Holy Face,

yet angel hosts adore Thee

and tremble as they gaze.

I see Thy strength and vigor

all fading in the strife,

and death with cruel rigor,

bereaving Thee of life;

O agony and dying!

O love to sinners free!

Jesus, all grace supplying,

O turn Thy face on me.

BENEDICTION

May Jesus Christ, who for our sake became obedient unto death, even death on a cross, keep you and strengthen you, now and for ever. Amen.