Sunday, January 31, 2021 - Fourth Sunday After Epiphany

Please find the Order of Service for this service by clicking on the following link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSzbcsqsFsDZRe79E5iLEUd7Or909DvSMjnlu5vfWlIBceK5r_VAdkXjOYaeua_XA/pub

Wednesday, January 27, 2021 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The link below, to the Montréal Holocaust Museum, tells of survivors’ stories. We would encourage you to listen to them, as they touch the heart with inspiration, courage and amazing hope.

https://museeholocauste.ca/en/survivors-stories/

Sunday, December 27, 2020 - 1st Sunday After Christmas

HopeUnited.ca

leaves.jpg

The Congregation of Hope United Church
2550 Danforth Ave.,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 

December 27, 2020 – 11:00am
1st Sunday After Christmas
Worship Leader, Marion Burt
 

WELCOME
Welcome everyone to our Sunday on-line Service of Worship. My name is Marion Burt – I’m taking Rev. Brian Steven’s place today to give him a well-deserved day of rest. We are very pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Sandy, Sasha, and Rev. Brian. You can type greetings and comments at any time in the chat. The order of service will appear on your screen and is also available on our Facebook page and at HopeUnited.ca. Our prayers this morning are drawn from the Presbyterian Church of Canada on-line Worship Resources.

land acknowledge.jpg

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND
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
I greet you in the name of our risen Lord. We begin our celebration with the singing of “Joy to the World”. It is found in Voices United # 59. 

Joy to the world! the Lord is come;
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the world! the Saviour reigns;
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

bells.jpg

CALL TO WORSHIP
Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens!
Praise God in the heights!
Praise God, all you angels!
Praise God, all you heavenly host!
Let us all praise the Lord!

OPENING PRAYER
Praise the Living God! Praise God from the heavens:
Sun and moon and shining stars, praise the
Living God!
Praise God’s Holy Name,
whose word speaks all things into being,
who is present in the expanse of the universe,
and in the voices of children.
Praise the Living God, our rescuer and deliverer,
whose wonder is found in the heavens and in all creation,
who comes in innocence, and with mercy.
O God, our light, our beauty, our rest:
With the appearance of your Son you have brought us
into your new creation.
Form us into your people, and root our lives in you;
through Christ, the Living Light.

candle.jpg

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
We light this candle as a symbol of love and light…
Christ’s light in the world.
May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Let us join our voices in the singing of “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.

pray.jpg

PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Source of all hope, you invite us to live in the light and discover the splendour of your glory. We confess we often choose to remain in the darkness instead.

We allow our fears and hurts to hold us hostage. Our expectations of life prevent us from seeing new and real possibilities. You offer us unconditional love, but we expect others to earn our love. Forgive us. May the new life born in the manger awaken new life in us and allow hope to dawn in the year ahead.

guy.jpg

ASSURANCE OF GRACE
Hear the good news of the Gospel:
Jesus Christ is our light and our salvation.
In him we are made new.
Let us give thanks to God,
and be at peace with ourselves
and with one another. Amen. 

In response, we sing the Gloria.
It is found in Voices United # 37.    

singers.jpg

“Gloria”
Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia! 

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia! 

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia! 

dove.jpg

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

               May the Peace of Christ be with you always.
And also with you.

(Unmute and greet one another!) 

 

FIRST READING         Isaiah 61:1062:3

I delight greatly in the Lord;
    my soul rejoices in my God.
For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
    and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness,
as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,
    and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
 For as the soil makes the sprout come up
    and a garden causes seeds to grow,
so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness
    and praise spring up before all nations.

For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,
    for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet,
till her vindication shines out like the dawn,
    her salvation like a blazing torch.
The nations will see your vindication,
    and all kings your glory;
you will be called by a new name
    that the mouth of the Lord will bestow.
You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand,
    a royal diadem in the hand of your God.

This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God. 

 

PSALM 148 Voices United # 871 

Refrain:  Let the whole creation cry ‘Glory be to God on high’

Praise God from the heavens, give praise in the heights!
Give praise, all you angels, praise God, all you hosts!
          Praise God, sun and moon, give praise, stars and lights!
          Praise God, farthest heavens, and all waters beyond heaven! R

Let all things praise the Holy One at whose command they were created,
who established them for all time, setting bounds, which cannot be passed.
          Praise God from the earth, great sea creatures and ocean depths,
          lightning and hail, snow and frost, gales that obey God’s decree.

All mountains and hills, all fruit trees and cedars,
Wild animals and cattle, creatures winged and earth-bound.
          Sovereigns who rule earth and its people,
          all who govern and judge this world,
          Young men and women alike, old people and children together!  R

Let all things praise the name of God,
The name above every other, whose splendor covers heaven and earth.
          You give strength to your people,
          Songs of praise to your faithful,
          To Israel, the people dear to your heart.  R

 

GOSPEL READING              Luke 2: 22-40

When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:

“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
    you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
     which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
    and the glory of your people Israel.”

The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.

REFLECTION

I thought that it’s really important this year to spend a little time thinking about the singing of carols, because this year it has been impossible for us to do the group singing that we usually do around Christmas.  Having just watched a demonstration on TV of how singing spreads droplets into the air, and knowing how difficult it is to sing with a mask over my mouth and nose, I quite understand the ban on group singing.  But the wonderful collection of carols that we have are a really important part of Christmas. Some of them tell the familiar story, they remind us of the meaning of Christ’s birth, some began as poems or songs that weren’t actually religious, but use heart-warming and uplifting images of warmth and joy that we associate with this holy time.  They wrap all of this in beautiful music that we feel in our hearts. 

So today I’m going to tell you some stories about some of the carols we sing. After you’ve listened to me, we’ll sing each carol – Sandy will lead us – and perhaps we’ll have a richer understanding of the intent and, meaning of the words and the melody.

Good King Wenceslas -- Wenceslas wasn’t actually a king – he was a duke in Bohemia – now part of modern Czechoslovakia. He was born in the early 900s and was given a good education by his father and devout grandmother.  When his father died, his mother took over control of the area. As he grew older, Wenceslas became aware that she was – well, she sounds a bit like the Donald Trump of the 10th century. Relations with other dukedoms deteriorated, the common people were treated cruelly, and things were rather miserable.  When he was 18, he took over control. He established good relations with other states, particularly with Germany. He took steps to organize the system of justice and reduced the number of death sentences. He also encouraged the establishment of churches and tried to help his poorer subjects – there are records that he actually did chop firewood and carry it on his shoulders to the homes of the poor!

Unfortunately, his younger brother, Boreslav the Cruel, appears to have taken after their mother, because he arranged to have Wenceslas murdered on Sept 28 929. He then took over the dukedom.

Wenceslas became a legend and the patron saint of Bohemia. A pope later in the century did give him the honour of a kingly title, but he was otherwise forgotten until an English theologian, John Neale, wrote a poem about him and set it to music in 1853.  Neale wasn’t happy about the state of the church at the time and felt that it should go back to its medieval roots, so the tune that we sing is actually a French song about Spring from the 14th century. 

Let’s all join in the story of Christian inspiration by listening to “Good King Wenceslas”.

Good King Wenceslas (Sandy and Sasha) 

Good King Wenceslas looked out
On the feast of Stephen
When the snow lay round about
Deep and crisp and even
Brightly shone the moon that night
Though the frost was cruel
When a poor man came in sight
Gath'ring winter fuel.

Wenceslas:
"Hither, page, and stand by me
If thou know'st it, telling
Yonder peasant, who is he?
Where and what his dwelling?"

Page:
"Sire, he lives a good league hence
Underneath the mountain
Right against the forest fence
By Saint Agnes' fountain."

Wenceslas:
"Bring me flesh and bring me wine
Bring me pine logs hither
Thou and I will see him dine
When we bear him thither."

Page and monarch forth they went
Forth they went together
Through the rude wind's wild lament
And the bitter weather

Page:
"Sire, the night is darker now
And the wind blows stronger
Fails my heart, I know not how,
I can go no longer."

Wenceslas:
"Mark my footsteps, my good page
Tread thou in them boldly
Thou shalt find the winter's rage
Freeze thy blood less coldly."

In his master's steps he trod
Where the snow lay dinted
Heat was in the very sod
Which the Saint had printed.

Therefore, Christian men, be sure
Wealth or rank possessing
Ye who now will bless the poor
Shall yourselves find blessing

 

It Came Upon the Midnight Clear (VU # 44)
This carol now seems as part of Christmas as “Away in a Manger”, but it didn’t start out that way. Edward Sears, born in 1810 in Massachusetts, was always poetic, and as a boy spoke of imagining the hills near his home as the point where Heaven and Earth touched, and where angels could descend into our world on errands of love.

He wrote the words in a poem in 1849, when tensions in the USA were mounting. When the 1850 Fugitive Slave Law became enforced nationwide, Reverend Sears announced from his pulpit that when human and divine law conflicted, people must obey the Divine law. He declared slavery a crime and predicted that it would lead to national tragedy. That came to pass in the American Civil War.

Because there is no mention of Jesus or of his birth, there has always been some controversy about whether the carol belongs in the Christmas section of hymnaries.  However, the images that it conjures up and the hopes for peace and goodwill in this world seem very fitting for our current Christmas. 

It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth,
To touch their harps of gold:
"Peace on the earth, goodwill to men,
From heaven's all-gracious King."
The world in solemn stillness lay,
To hear the angels sing.

Still through the cloven skies they come,
With peaceful wings unfurled,
And still their heavenly music floats
O'er all the weary world;
Above its sad and lowly plains,
They bend on hovering wing,
And ever o'er its babel sounds
The blessed angels sing.

Yet with the woes of sin and strife
The world has suffered long;
Beneath the angel-strain have rolled
Two thousand years of wrong;
And man, at war with man, hears not
The love-song which they bring;
O hush the noise, ye men of strife,
And hear the angels sing.

And ye, beneath life's crushing load,
Whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way
With painful steps and slow,
Look now! for glad and golden hours
come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
And hear the angels sing!

For lo!, the days are hastening on,
By prophet bards foretold,
When with the ever-circling years
Comes round the age of gold
When peace shall over all the earth
Its ancient splendors fling,
And the whole world give back the song
Which now the angels sing.

 

O Little Town of Bethlehem (VU # 64) 
In 1865, the famous preacher and abolitionist Phillip Brooks rode on horseback from Jerusalem to Bethlehem and participated in the Church of the Nativity's Christmas Eve celebration. Three years later, when he wanted to write a carol for the children’s choir of his church, he remembered his magical experience and used it to create the verses of this song. Unlike many Christmas carols, the lyrics of this reflective and hopeful song are set in the present tense rather than the past. The author’s experience of wonder and awe is vivid and covers the seemingly great distance between the birth of Christ then and our experience of it now. 

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight

 For Christ is born of Mary
And gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love
O morning stars together
Proclaim the holy birth
And praises sing to God the King
And Peace to men on earth

 How silently, how silently
The wondrous gift is given
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of His heaven
No ear may hear His coming
But in this world of sin
Where meek souls will receive him still
The dear Christ enters in

 O holy Child of Bethlehem
Descend to us, we pray
Cast out our sin and enter in
Be born to us today
We hear the Christmas angels
The great glad tidings tell
O come to us, abide with us
Our Lord Emmanuel
O come to us, abide with us
Our Lord Emmanuel.

In the Bleak Midwinter (VU # 55) 
Poet Christina Rossetti wrote the words of this hymn. She lived from 1830 to 1895 and originally published this as a poem called “A Christmas Carol.”

Rossetti never married and lived quite independently. She used her poems and words to bring attention to issues of the day, such as slavery, animal experimentations and sexual exploitation of young women. She was often sick and without much money, but devoted her life to her family, her faith, and ministry with former prostitutes.  Quite a calling I would say.

About 12 years after her death, the words appeared for the first time in The English Hymnal attached to a tune by composer Gustav Holst. We have sung this hymn basically in the same form since it first appeared in 1906.  Now, I’ll confess that I had a few problems with this carol when I first heard it, but when I realized that she was a poet speaking in metaphor, it made a lot more sense.

First of all, I was pretty sure that there isn’t much snow in Bethlehem.  But then I thought poetically about what she was trying to say: Jesus came into a cold, hard, and desolate world with the beauty of calm, peace, and quiet. We all need this during the rush and craziness of the holiday. Those experiencing loss and having a difficult time finding the joy in Christmas, can find hope and comfort in this setting.

In the second stanza I am reminded that neither heaven or earth can contain the majesty of our God. He is always More than anything we mortals can imagine. Yet he still comes and stays in our ordinary lives such as a stable.

What love and tenderness rises from the third and fourth verse! The third verse describes the power of Christ in our world, and the fourth the serenity and acceptance of one living Christ’s teaching.

That last verse is the one with the real comfort and message. No matter what is going on in our lives, how stressed we are, how drained our resources are, how empty we feel – we can still give our hearts.  And that is the best gift. 

In the Bleak Midwinter VU # 55 (Sandy)

In the bleak mid-winter
Frosty wind made moan;
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,
Snow on snow,
In the bleak mid-winter
Long ago.

Our God, heaven cannot hold Him
Nor earth sustain,
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When He comes to reign:
In the bleak mid-winter
A stable-place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty —
Jesus Christ.

Enough for Him, whom Cherubim
Worship night and day,
A breastful of milk
And a mangerful of hay;
Enough for Him, whom Angels
Fall down before,
The ox and ass and camel
Which adore.

What can I give Him,
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd,
I would give a lamb.
If I were a rich man,
I would do my part,
Yet What I can I give Him,
Give my heart.

 

MORNING OFFERING
Let us offer thanks for the many blessings and gifts of creation as we present our morning offering…

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
Good and gracious God, your love overflows in the goodness we have met even in this challenging year. As one year closes and another begins, help us trust your goodness. Bless the gifts we bring to you so that they may provide others with the hope we know in Christ Jesus and the love you share with the world through him.

Let us join our voices in song…Our Doxology is “Your Work O God Needs Many Hands” and is found in Voices United # 537 and words will also appear on your screen.  

singers.jpg

“Your Work O God Needs Many Hands”

Your work, o God needs many hands
to help you everywhere,
And some there are who cannot serve
unless our gifts we share

Because we love you and your work,
our offering now we make
Be pleased to use it as your own,
we ask for Jesus’ sake.

PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE WORLD
God of love, as we celebrate the birth and life of Jesus, our Saviour, we are filled with thanks. Our gratitude overflows in prayers for our world, the world you love.

We pray for all children. Guard their minds, protect their bodies, strengthen their characters, and give them joy. Help them look to the future with hope and trust.

We pray for the most aged among us, those whom Simeon and Anna bring to mind. Protect them in the midst of the ongoing pandemic and reassure them of their value to you and to us, even when we cannot meet together.

We pray to the Lord… 
Lord hear our prayer. 

We pray for those whose hearts are filled with pain and fear. We pray for those for whom Christmas is linked with loss or grief. Surround each one with a strong sense of your comforting presence.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer.

We pray for those who do not have enough to eat, and for those
who lack adequate shelter in our community and in desperate
corners of the world…
For those who eat alone, without the comfort of human contact…
and for those whose hearts and lives have been broken by trauma and loss,
and for those who struggle with the many costs of the pandemic.
Surround each one with a strong sense of your comforting presence.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer.

We pray for family members and friends, those nearby and those we could not meet with this year. Remind them of our steadfast love, and to any who are struggling this season, O God, give your gift of peace.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer.

As the year draws to a close, we surrender to you, O God, the challenges it has held for us so that they will not remain as burdens. Remind us of the good things that have offered us encouragement in times of isolation. We give you thanks for the people who continue to care for us and care about us. Give us courage and wisdom for the year ahead.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer.

We pray that our leaders will have wisdom and generosity of spirit
for the decisions they must make on our behalf.
Guide scientists working to produce vaccines against COVID-19
and support all those essential workers
whose faithfulness to their responsibilities helps us all cope in these difficult days.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer!

God of healing…God of life…
We now name those who are in need of your healing love…
Names and intentions spoken aloud…or held in the quiet of our hearts…

(mics will be unmuted so you may offer your intentions)

For all those named aloud or in the silence of our hearts

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer!

Grant us all the hope, joy and peace we find through trusting you,
as we pray together the words Jesus taught us:

LORD’S PRAYER VU # 959
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.

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Online Worship next Sunday, January 3 at 11:00am.

Last call for nominations! If you would like to serve on a committee, church board, or as a trustee, please email hopeunitedchurch@gmail.com and a member of the committee will be in touch.

Yoga!
Yoga Classes (On-line) will resume in the New Year. A new class each week at 11:00am. The link is available on our web-site and our Facebook page.

Christmas Take-A- Way Supper - We had a terrific turnout for our meal. Approximately 120 meals were prepared and distributed. A big thank you to Suzanne, Gavin, Adrieke, Marion, Maroo, Matthew and Paul for the preparation of the meals. Special thanks to Adrieke for the crafts, hats and mittens she made that were distributed this past Sunday as well.

hands.jpg

CLOSING PRAYER
Holy God, in the ancient words of the scriptures,
let us hear afresh your eternal message of peace,
salvation and reconciliation.
Send us your Spirit to open our minds
and hearts to receive your truth
through Christ, your Word made flesh.

BLESSING AND BENEDICTION
May the blessing of our Lord Jesus Christ
Be with you this day and ever more.
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord!

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, November 29, 2020 - Advent I

November 29, 2020 - 11:00am
Advent I
The Congregation of Hope United Church
2550 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Rev. Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

candle.jpg

HopeUnited.ca 

WELCOME
Welcome everyone to our Sunday on-line Service of Worship. My name is Marion Burt. We are very pleased to have you with us today on this first Sunday of Advent has begun! Our musicians today are Sandy, Suzanne, Janice and Rev. Brian. You can type greetings and comments at any time in the chat. The order of service will appear on your screen and is also available on our Facebook page and at HopeUnited.ca. We will be celebrating communion today, so if you have not already done so, please gather together a small juice as well as a wafer, cracker or morsel of bread. Worship materials today are drawn from Days Surely Coming, by Miriam Spies. Thank you to our readers and musicians.
Our service today is led by our minister here at Hope United, Rev. Brian Stevens.

acknow.jpg

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND
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.


“O Come, O Come Emmanuel” 

O come, O come Emmanuel                          Rejoice! Rejoice!
And ransom captive Israel.                             Emmanuel…
That mourns in lowly exile here                     Shall come to thee O Israel.
Until the son of God appear. 

O come O Wisdom from on high.                 Rejoice! Rejoice!
Who orders all things mightily.                      Emmanuel…
To us the path of knowledge show               Shall come to thee O Israel.
And teach us in her ways to go.

bells.jpg

CALL TO WORSHIP
(Miriam Spies) 

The days are coming:
When God’s promises are fulfilled.
The days are coming:
When God leads us on paths of righteousness.
The days are surely coming:
When the kingdom of God draws near.
Let us worship our God of possibilities and hope.
God be with you.
And also with you.

 

OPENING PRAYER
Holy and Eternal God, as we await the coming of our Messiah, for you to enter our lives and our world, may our hopes for your coming kingdom echo your hopes. 

Challenge us to recognize your paths for us.
Let us grow expectantly in community, as we make the pilgrimage to the manger once again to witness your ways and your grace in the world.  

In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.

candle first.jpg

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLE
We light this first candle, beginning with hope…
The hope that God holds for a new world.
God’s gift of hope…
That persists to bring forth life.
God’s gift of hope…
That protests the way the priorities of the world discounts people.
God’s gift of hope
That names all as beloved and beautiful children

This is God’s gift of hope. Amen.

(The first Advent candle is lit)  

Voices United # 6 “A Candle is Burning”
A Candle is burning, a flame warm and bright,
A candle of Hope in Decembers’ dark night
While angels sing blessings from heaven’s starry sky,
Our hearts we prepare now for Jesus is nigh.

pray.jpg

PRAYER OF CONFESSION
God of hope,
we confess that too often
we prefer darkness to light,
and that we are easily distracted
by our plans to yours.
We accept lies as truth,
exploit neighbours,
abuse the earth,
and choose strife instead of peace. 
In your mercy,
hear our silent confession of sin;
forgive what we have been,
help us amend what we are,
and direct who we shall be.

guy.jpg

ASSURANCE OF GRACE 
We know that when God thinks of us,
God does not remember our sin,
but remembers us in the light of God’s own steadfast
love and mercy for us.
Know that you are forgiven,
and forgive one another. Amen.

singers.jpg

VU # 22 Wait for the Lord
Wait for the Lord…
Whose day is near
Wait for the Lord
Be String, take heart!

dove.jpg

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

               May the Peace of Christ be with you always.
            And also with you.

        (Un-mute to greet one another!)


FIRST READING         Isaiah 64:1-9 

And the LORD said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses.  Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: ‘When you reach the edge of the Jordan’s waters, go and stand in the river.’”

 Joshua said to the Israelites, “Come here and listen to the words of the Lord your God. This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites.  See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe.  And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.”

So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them.  Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing.

It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (that is, the Dead Sea) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.

This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

 

PSALM 80 Voices United # 794 

Refrain: Your face, God, shine on us and give us peace.

Shepherd of Israel, hear us
You who lad Joseph like a flock,
You who are enthroned amidst the cherubim.
Shine forth before Ephraim, Benjamin and Manasseh
Stir up your might, come and save us

Refrain: Refrain: Your face, God, shine on us and give us peace.

God of hosts, how long will you be angry with your people’s prayer?
You have fed us with the bread of weeping
And given us tears in plenty to drink.
You have made a mockery of us to our neighbours.
            And our enemies laugh us to scorn.
Let your hand rest on the one at your right hand,
On the one you have made strong for yourself
Then we will never forsake you;
Give us life, and we will call on your name. 

Refrain: Refrain: Your face, God, shine on us and give us peace.

 

GOSPEL READING         Mark 13:24-37

But in those days, following that distress,

“‘the sun will be darkened,
  and the moon will not give its light;
  the stars will fall from the sky,
  and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.

“At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory.  And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens.

“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near.  Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.  Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.  It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch.

“Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping.  What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’” 

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.

Let us join our hearts and voices in the singing of “As a Fire is Meant for Burning”. The words will be found on your screen and are found in Voices United # 578.

“As a Fire is Meant for Burning”  (verses 1 and 2)
As a fire is meant for burning
With a bright and warming flame
So the church is meant for mission
Giving glory to God’s name
Not to preach our creeds or customs
But to build a bridge of care
We join hands across the nations
Finding neighbours everywhere. 

We are leaners we are teachers
We are pilgrims on the way
We are seekers we are givers
We are vessels made of clay
By our gentle, loving actions
We would show that Christ is light
In a humble, listening spirit
We would live to God’s delight.


REFLECTION:  “Noticing God”   - Rev. Brian Stevens BA MDiv


MUSIC MINISTRY “The Potter’s Hand” by Darlene Zschech (Sandy)


MORNING OFFERING
Let us bring our gifts, our hopes for God’s new world, in service and love. Lord may you
Bless these gifts, O God, that they may help prepare the way to the manger, to your
entering our world with justice and humility.

singers.jpg

DOXOLOGY “I Thank You, Thank You, Jesus”
I thank you, thank you, Jesus…
I thank you, thank you, Jesus…
I thank you, thank you, Jesus in my heart. 

I thank you, thank you, Jesus…
I thank you, thank you, Jesus…
I thank you, thank you, Jesus in my heart. 

stars.jpg

PRAYER INTERCESSIONS
(Lee Osophy – Prayer blog)

O Creator God, we are Your clay, we are all Your people, each of us moulded by the work of Your Hand. Gather us from the four winds and restore us, that we may be relieved of our unbelief, awakened by Your Light, and never again turn away from You

O Lord of Hosts….                                     
Keep us alert and prepared      

O Creator God, enlighten the souls and steady the hearts and minds of all who govern across this Earth. Straighten the path to peace and unity with local, national, and international friends and adversaries alike, guiding the path to justice, mercy, humanitarian, and planetary care.

O Lord of Hosts
Keep us alert and prepared

O Creator God, rekindle our hope in this waiting time, especially in all who are anointed in Your Name, to lead us to Your Truth that is our Christ.

O Lord of Hosts
Keep us alert and prepared

O Creator God, embrace and sustain all who are seriously ill or facing desperate times, that they, and those who give support, may know Your warmth, light, and encouragement within. We now join our hearts together to pray for those in need…

Mics will be unmated so that you may add your own petitions.

For all petitions offered, intentions and prayers and all those named allowed or in the quiet of our hearts…

O Lord of Hosts
Keep us alert and prepared

 

COMMUNION HYMN

Bread for the Journey MV # 202.. we will sing it three times

Bread for the journey…
Food for the way.
Cup of God’s blessing,
Tomorrow, today.

communion.jpg

Advent Communion Liturgy
Written by Alydia Smith,
Program Coordinator, Worship, Music, and Spirituality, General Council Office

As we come to this table,
we are reminded that this is the table of Jesus Christ,
a banquet prepared for everyone.
All who seek to be nourished and sustained
in the journey of faith,
all who seek wholeness and compassionate paths to peace and justice,
are welcome here.    

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.

Blessed are you, Breath of peace,
Giver of all life,
Source of love that knows no boundaries.
Your song of wisdom rang out before the world began;
throughout the ages, your song of liberation has impregnated us with your hope for a world where:
              those considered last and least are first and most;
violence is overcome by the power of your ancient love; and,
all siblings work together for peace.

You bring our longings to birth,
and send prophets to awaken us
to your approaching Advent among us.

We thank you for those who, like Mary,
       have the strength and courage
       to give birth to your love in the world;
for those who, like the shepherds,
       dare to seek out the Child of Bethlehem;
for those who, like the wise ones,
       actively challenge violent and oppressive powers. 

We praise you that your everlasting light is shown to us
       in womb and tomb,
       in cradle and cross,
       in tenderness and compassion.

At this time, we also remember
all with whom you would have us share your feast.
We pray for all who are in sorrow or in pain…
all who are ill or alone…
all who are close to our hearts…
all our sisters who live with fear, oppression, or hunger…
all whose lives have been blighted by violence, racism, or poverty…
for all whom the world counts as last and least.  

We pray for the church and its many ministries,
for nations as they strive for peace and justice,
for an end to violence against women. 

God of hope, make this bread the means of our rebuilding,
this wine the medium of our transformation,
this table the foundation of our renewal,
and this community the place of our rebirth. Amen. 

At this time, we remember Jesus, Who on the night before he died, 
took a loaf of bread, gave you thanks, broke it, and said,

communion 2.jpg

              “Take and eat; whenever you do this, remember me.”

communion 3.jpg

Likewise, after supper,
he took the cup, saying,
“This is the new covenant;
remember me.”  

Gracious God, Breath of peace,
Source of love,
we pray for your Spirit.
Make us, while many, one.
Make us, though broken, whole.
Make us, despite death, alive.
And so we pray:
Come, Holy Spirit, come.  

And so we join with our siblings around the world in the prayer of Jesus as we sing: 

               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. 

SHARING THE BREAD AND CUP

The body of Christ, the Bread of life.  

The lifeblood of Christ,  the cup of blessing.  

Let us eat and drink together
for our strengthening in the faith,
and for the sake of the world.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We thank you, God,
for breaking into our world
and pouring into our lives and our experiences.

We thank you, God,
for this meal of thanksgiving
and the stories of love, grace, and hope that it tells. Amen.

 ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Online Worship next Sunday, December 6 at 11:00am.

Yoga!  Our first on-line Yoga class will take place Thursday, December 3 at 11:00am.
You can watch and participate on our usual zoom link or from the Hope United YouTube channel. The link is on our website HopeUnited.ca and our Facebook page. 

messy church.png

“Christmas Messy Church” - Wednesday, December 16 at 6:00pm. This will be a virtual event and zoom will be the same as our Sunday service.
You can also call in using: 647 374 4685  or  647 558 0588
Meeting ID is: 831 7846 1579
or click on the following link on your computer: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579.

concert.png

Orchestra Toronto has been rehearsing at Hope. They will present “Sublime Delights” as a virtual concert from December 8 - January 8. Tickets are $20 and you can purchase a ticket on EventBrite.ca. If you would like to virtually attend, and do not have sufficient resources for a ticket, please let Rev. Brian know and we will provide you with one through our New Horizons program for seniors. 

Hope United Christmas Concert and Christmas Carol Sing-A-Long - Sunday  Dec 13 at 2:00pm. If you would like to sing or tell a Christmas story, please chat with Rev. Brian or Sandy so we can arrange a recording time.

Take-a-way Christmas Turkey Dinner will take place on Sunday December 20.
Pick up from 1:00- 2:00pm. Cooking and preparation will take place Thursday Dec. 17 in the afternoon, Friday Dec. 18 10:00 – 4:00 and Saturday 10:00 – 4:00 will be the packing of the meals. We welcome those who can lend a hand. Masks or shields are mandatory in the kitchen!

 

CLOSING PRAYER
Wait…listen…pray…peace, love hope and joy will be with us. May the days of the Advent season bring patience to our hearts, as we wait once gain to celebrate the birth of a most extraordinary child. Jesus Christ, born of Mary in Bethlehem so many years ago. Destined to change the world with his words and deeds. May we notice Spirit in the days ahead, touching and embracing us…as we wait. Amen.

Sandy will lead us in our closing hymn “Lo, He Comes with Clouds Descending”.
It is found in Voices United # 25  and the words will appear on your screen.

Lo, he comes with clouds descending
See the Lamb for sinners slain!
Thousand, thousand saints attending
Join to sing the glad refrain
Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
God appears on earth to reign. 

Every eye shall then behold you,
Robed in awesome majesty
All who jeered and mocked and sold you
Pierced and nailed you to the tree
Deeply grieving, Deeply grieving,
Deeply grieving, Deeply grieving
Shall the true Messiah see. 

Now redemption, long expected
See in Solemn pomp appear
All the saints by us rejected
Thrill the trumpet sound to hear.
Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
See the day of God appear. 

Yea! Amen! Let all adore you
High on your eternals throne
Crowns and empires fall before you
Claim the kingdom for your own,
O come quickly!, O come quickly
O come quickly! O come quickly!
Everlasting Christ come down.

 

BLESSING AND BENEDICTION
(Liturgy link)

Be people of hope.
Let hope live in your heart and share the hope of Christ with all you meet.
Share hope by noticing someone else’s humanity.
Share hope by listening to someone’s story.
Share hope by praying for our world.
In this Advent season, we need to see, feel, and share hope.
As you go out into the wonder of God’s creations,
share hope with those you meet. 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, November 15, 2020 - 24th Sunday After Pentecost

HopeUnited.ca 

leaves.jpg

The Congregation of Hope United Church
2550 Danforth Avenue,
 Toronto, Ontario, Canada

November 15, 2020 – 11:00am
24th Sunday After Pentecost
Children’s Sunday
Rev. Brian Stevens  MDiv 

WELCOME
Welcome everyone to our Sunday on-line Service of Worship. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the Minister here at Hope United in Toronto, Canada. We are very pleased to have you with us today.  Our musician today is Sandy. You can type greetings and comments at any time in the chat. The order of service will appear on your screen and is also available on our Facebook page and at HopeUnited.ca.

acknow.jpg

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND
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
I greet you in the name of our risen Lord . We begin our celebration with the singing of “Here I Am Lord”. It is found in Voices United # 509.

I, the Lord of sea and sky
I have heard my people cry
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save
I who made the stars of night
I will make their darkness bright
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?

Here I am, Lord…Is it I, Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night…
I will go, Lord…If You lead me
I will hold Your people in my heart.

I the Lord of snow and rain,
I have borne my peoples’ pain.
I have wept for love of them.
They turn away…

I will break their hearts of stone.
Give them hearts for love alone…
I will speak my word to them…
Whom shall I send?

Here I am, Lord…Is it I, Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night…
I will go, Lord…If You lead me…
I will hold Your people in my heart.

I, the Lord of wind and flame.
I will tend the poor and lame
I will set a feast for them
My hand will save..

Finest bread I will provide.
'Til their hearts be satisfied.
I will give my life to them…
Whom shall I send?

Here I am, Lord…Is it I, Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night
I will go, Lord…If You lead me
I will hold Your people in my heart.

bells.jpg

CALL TO WORSHIP
One: We are blessed with voice
All:    May we use it faithfully!
One: We are blessed with a complex mind…
All:    May we use it with faith and wisdom.
One: We are blessed with loving hearts…
All:    May all know us for our faithful, loving hearts. Amen.
 

OPENING PRAYER
God blesses us with talents for us to share in this world. May we learn to be generous with our time, talents and gifts; the most precious of these being love. We cannot squeeze it tight and hold it only unto ourselves…it is to be shared through kindness and care…through thoughtfulness and prayer… through all of our actions, words and deeds. Call us to be courageous with our love…to be courageous with the care that we offer to others. Amen.

candle.jpg

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
We light this candle as a symbol of love and light…
Christ’s light in the world.
May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Let us join our voices in the singing of “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.

pray.jpg

PRAYER OF CONFESSION
(First Presbyterian Church of New York)
Gracious God, you call us as your own children and cover us with your love. We would seek to be merciful as you are, and to show compassion as you do; but we fail to live the life to which we have been called. Where we ought to forgive, we condemn; the evil we should shun, we embrace. Forgive our sinful ways and make us more like Christ, until we are raised in perfection on the last day.

guy.jpg

ASSURANCE OF GRACE
Remember the words of the prophet Jeremiah, “Behold the days are coming, says the Lord, when...I will put my law within them, and I will write it upon their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people...for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” Friends, believe the good news of the Gospel. In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven.  Amen.

singers.jpg

In response, we sing the Gloria.
It is found in Voices United # 37.

“Gloria”
Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

dove.jpg

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

May the Peace of Christ be with you always.
And also with you.

(Unmute and greet one another!)
 

FIRST READING         Judges 4 3: 1-7

Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, now that Ehud was dead.  So the LORD sold them into the hands of Jabin king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor. Sisera, the commander of his army, was based in Harosheth Haggoyim.  Because he had nine hundred chariots fitted with iron and had cruelly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years, they cried to the LORD for help.

Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided. She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, “The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: ‘Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead them up to Mount Tabor.  I will lead Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s army, with his chariots and his troops to the Kishon River and give him into your hands.’”

This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
 

PSALM 123 Voices United # 847

Refrain:     To You O God our eyes we raise,
Until your mercy we may praise.

To you I Lift up my eyes,
To you who are enthroned in the heavens.
As the eyes of servants look to their master’s hands,
As the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress
So our eyes look to you, O God.
          As we wait till you show us your favour

Refrain:     To You O God our eyes we raise,
Until your mercy we may praise.

We have had more than enough of contempt.
Too long we have suffered the scorn of the wealthy,
And the contempt of the arrogant.

Refrain:     To You O God our eyes we raise,
Until your mercy we may praise.
 

GOSPEL READING              Matthew 25:14-30
Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.

 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’ “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

“The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’ “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

“Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed.  So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’ “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed?  Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.

 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags.  For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.  And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.

singers.jpg

Please join in the singing of “Jesus, Friend of Little Children” Voices United # 340.

Jesus, friend of little children, let me be one too…
Take my hand and ever keep me close to you!

Teach me how to grow in goodness, daily as I grow…
You have been a child and surely you must know.

Never leave me, nor forsake me, ever be my friend…
For I need you, from life’s dawning to its end.
 

REFLECTION: You! Make a difference… Rev. Brian Stevens BA MDiv

This phrase may be read and understood in different ways, simply by changing the inflection.

I suggest that it is important for us to live into both understandings of this short four word phrase.

It can be an affirming statement, You make a difference. Such an approach typically leaves us feeling a little warm and fuzzy inside. As we worked in the preparing for our take-a-way lasagna supper, frankly it felt good. As people picked them up, they were appreciative… we had a sense… a feeling that our actions and efforts for the previous few days had culminated in making a difference in the lives of people in our community.

You! Make a difference…When we use a sterner tone and add some space around the exclamation point, it shifts…we are being directed or directing others to get out there and do something that makes a difference. I suggest to you that Jesus takes the second position. He sets an expectation, then offers up examples of what to do and what not to do. Christ expects us to make a difference in the world. To use our talents, not only for benefit of self…to use our talents to explore and develop our “ whole self” using every gram of the talents with which we have been blessed.

Not always an easy task, especially when the work keeps layering on challenges that stretch us to our breaking point.

In our Gospel from Matthew today we are given direction…we are given marching orders…use our talents courageously. Learn, try, explore, perhaps fail…then dust yourself off and try again…do not live in fear of what might be, and in that do nothing for fear of not succeeding. Not trying, is not succeeding.

When I graduated from St. Francis Xavier University…I headed off to PEI for the summer to play piano for a dinner theatre show. It was not what I had trained for…I was a classical musician! Yet I was so blessed because it was a small music department, I got to try lot’s of things…I was nudged, pushed, cajoled to try lots of things…My second year I played piano in the Big band…I had never really read chord charts or lead sheets…Put notes in front of me, and I could play them… but improvise?

Looking back, I was probably pretty stiff and unmusical…in fact half the time I did not know what bar of music we were in… but my ear improved…and by the end of the that’s school year, we actually sounded ok and came second in the Atlantic Stage Band Festival…. I was also surrounded by lots of students from Cape Breton and Newfoundland…all of whom played by ear…at house parties I eventually learned to trust my ear… to trust my particular talent…while I had gone to university to : learn classical piano…one of the most valuable lessons, as a musician, was learning to play by ear. My first year of teaching, so as to keep my playing up, I decided to do my grade ten piano exam…Grade 8 was the minimum required for entrance in to first year university, so had done that…

As part of the exam there were some ear test…naming intervals, rhythmic patterns, but you also had to play back a two part passage contrapuntal passage…fairly difficult…but I had worked at it. I knew I had it when the examiner smirked and eye brows went up. I actually got 100% on the ear training section. I share this not to  rave about my musical ears…I share this as my lived example of where exploring talents can take you… it can take you to places that you did not believe you would or could go. Many years later, while I was in graduate school I played with the Nova Gospel Ensemble.

There was no music, no charts, no paper…except for a list of songs. The lead singer had everything memorized. They gave me a CD with tunes on it…everything was by ear and by feel. Christmas eve of 2005 we did a live to air broadcast from the Old North street church in Halifax.  I actually got to sing and play one of my original Christmas songs, Candles In The Window, live on National Radio. It was not something I ever imagined I would do…It was not something I imagined I would do with this particular group… yet it happened and it was fun and joyful and life giving.

It never would have happened if I had not been open to exploring. To play in a group, without charts, way out of my comfort zone… but that is where Christ wants us to go… that is where he calls us… that is where he leads us…to dig deep… to muster our courage and go to new places and ways of being in the world that may be full of fright and peril as they are unknown to us.

Jesus did not sit on a rock by the river Jordan and have his disciples arrive at his side, teach a few lessons and done for the day. He walked… he taught… he explored… he learned… he gathered his disciples…and set about his path with intention.

As we age and journey through our lives we must remember that we were all children of promise…children with a world set in front of us , not knowing where the roads would lead us…children with eyes open, curious, excited about all the new things that would appear in days, month and years ahead. The years can tarnish and tire the way we see the world…the years can slow us down…yet our talents remain… our physical abilities to do things may shift… I have to watch my back…be careful not to twist my knee or it’s back to the crutches…some things I yearn to be able to do, but the body just can’t manage it anymore… so I seek out different ways or new ideas about what may be next….

Covid 19 has meant we had to change the way we gather to worship. I had no idea how to figure this out…yet we did it together and will continue to do so…for that is our call…to support and care for each other…to be ready to try and then try again. For those who were with us for our on line October Messy Church…it was just a technical disaster…I had worked really hard…and it just did not work the way I had imagined it would…we rallied and tried again this week…people shared stories, the radios show played pretty well, except when PowerPoint locked up and froze, but we dusted off and started again.

As I was reading about tour gospel passage this week  one great image was offered up. Imagine up a wooden boat. A wooden boat needs water… it needs to float… it needs to move and do its work… carry people, carry goods, go fishing…so many things that a wooden boat can help with… yet left on the shore, unused, untended to…it simply rots until it is no longer seaworthy, and falls apart.

So too with our talents… and this is the point that Matthew makes….Christ calls us from our overstuffed chair…from the phone…from the 52 inch television screen to use our talents…or they will disappear as if they never were… having made no difference in our life or the lives so others… so go make a difference… You! Make a difference… because you make a difference when you embrace your talents and share them with the world. Amen.
 

MUSIC MINISTRY – “We Are The Children of Promise” – Sung by Sandy
(https://youtu.be/QBAfyHeOBxs)
by Joel Raney

Lord, when we think about your vast creation
When we gaze up into a starry sky
Every person, every generation seeks an answer,
Wonders why.
We lift our hearts to you, forever grateful
For all we are, for what we see,
We raise our voices in celebration
Of what has been, of what will be.

Who are we?
We are the children of promise.
Who are we?
We are the keepers of the flame.
Who are we?
We are heaven’s greatest treasure,
We all are one, we’re all the same.
Who are we?
We are the children of hope,
Who are we?
A special gift from god above.
O,
We are the joy of God’s creation
We are a gift of love.

 Help us remember how to love each other,
Help us to see the world with childlike eyes.
Every sunset, every happy morning,
Every blessing God supplies.
We lift our hearts to you, forever grateful
For all we are, for all we see,
We raise our voices in celebration
Of what has been, of what will be.

Who are we?
We are the children of promise.
Who are we?
We are the keepers of the flame.
Who are we?
We are heaven’s greatest treasure,
We all are one, we’re all the same.
Who are we?
We are the children of hope,
Who are we?
A special gift from god above.
O,
We are the joy of God’s creation
We are a gift of love.
A special gift of love.
 

MORNING OFFERING
Let us offer thanks for the many blessings and gifts of creation as we present our morning offering…
 

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
(David S. Bell.-United- Methodist Foundation)

Beloved Lord, you offer us a precious gift. Your invitation to salvation through Jesus Christ frees us from so many unnecessary fears. As children of your light, we present these gifts so that others may share in the timeless message of your love. Encourage us to reflect your love to others, today and always. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

singers.jpg

Let us join our voices in song…Our doxology is “Your Work O God Needs Many Hands” and is found in Voices United # 537 and words will also appear on your screen.

“Your Work O God Needs Many Hands”

Your work, o God needs many hands
to help you everywhere,
And some there are who cannot serve
unless our gifts we share

Because we love you and your work,
our offering now we make
Be pleased to use it as your own,
we ask for Jesus’ sake.
 

PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE WORLD
( Presbyterian Church of Canada)

We thank you, God of all life and each life,
that you are with us every day, in each challenge and opportunity.
In our weakness, you are strength.
In our darkness, you are light on the journey.
In our questions, you are wisdom for our choices.
Stay with us in these days when so much seems uncertain,
and help us to serve you faithfully, when and as we are able.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer!

God of loving kindness:
we give you thanks for moments of joy and celebration in our lives
even amidst the ongoing pandemic,
for love given and received,
for friendships which bring us meaning and happiness, even at a distance,
and for family members who show us glimpses of unconditional love.
In all our relationships and interactions,
keep us mindful of your call to see you in one another.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer!

God of the nations,
we pray for our country and the countries of this world,
as we all struggle to face the choices COVID-19 sets before us.
Guide those who frame laws and shape policy,
and those who keep the peace and administer justice.
There are so many new challenges to consider
and we pray your wisdom will open our leaders’ minds and hearts
to develop more equitable ways of ordering our communities.

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer!

God of peace,
For the children of the world, they hold your promise
They are our future. Keep them safe, let them play
Help them learn and discover
All that they can be…hold them ever in the palm of your hand…

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer!

God of healing…God of life…
We now name those who are in need of your healing love…
Names and intentions spoken aloud…or held in the quiet of our hearts…

(mics will be unmuted so you may offer your intentions)

For all those named aloud or in the silence of our hearts

We pray to the Lord…
Lord hear our prayer!

With the words our Saviour taught us….let us sing the Lord’s prayer.
It is Voices United # 959 and the words will appear on your screen.

LORD’S PRAYER
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. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Online Worship next Sunday, November 22 at 11:00am. This will be our Sunday Service and Annual Meeting combined. Our annual report will be available on-line by Wednesday November 18, or we can drop a hard copy off to you.  Please call or email to request one.

Last call for nominations! If you would like to serve on a committee, church board, or as a trustee, please email hopeunitedchurch@gmail.com and a member of the committee will be in touch.

messy church.jpg

Our “Remembrance Day Messy Church” took place this past Wednesday.  Thanks so much for being with us and sharing your stories. A special thank you to our actors and singers who assisted with our first mini-version of “The War Time Radio Show”. We had much fun putting it together. It is on-line on our YouTube Channel and the links is also posted on our website and Facebook page.

Yoga! Our first Yoga class is ready for Thursday November 26 at 11:00am.

Sunday November 29 will be a Service of Communion.

Lasagne Take-A-Way Supper - We had a terrific turnout for our meal. Approximately 100 meals were prepared and distributed. A big thank you to Suzanne, Gavin, Andrieka and Paul for the preparation of the meals, and Bruce for overseeing pick-up.    

hands.jpg

CLOSING PRAYER
Lord… we have heard your word, we have offered prayers,
We have sung songs in your praise. Let us continue
to hear your voice and see your face in each other and all
whom we meet. Let us take time to reflect upon our talents
and gifts,…talents and gifts affirmed by you O Lord. May
we use them generously and with love, that by our simple
actions, others may come to know your love. Amen.

Sandy will lead us in our closing hymn “Go, Make a Diff’rence”.
It is found in More Voices # 209  and the words will appear on your screen.

“Go, Make a Diff’rence”
Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

We are the salt of the earth
Called to let the people
See the love of God for you and me.

We are the light of the world
Not to be hidden but be seen
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

We are the hands of Christ
Reaching out to those in need
The face of God for all to see!
We are the spirit of hope, we are the voice of peace
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

So let your love shine on,
Let it shine for all to see
Go make a diff’rence in the world!
And the spirit if Christ will be with us as we go
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!

Go make a diff’rence
We can make a diff’rence
Go make a diff’rence in the world!
 

BLESSING AND BENEDICTION
(Jewish Learning- Blessing for children)

May you be like Ephraim and Menashe.
May you be like Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah.
May God bless you and protect you.
May God show you favor and be gracious to you.
May God show you kindness and grant you peace. 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, November 8, 2020 - Remembrance Sunday

HOPE
UNITED
 CHURCH 

2550 Danforth Avenue
416-691-9682

November 8, 2020
11:00am
Remembrance Sunday
Worship Leader – Rev. Brian Stevens MDiv 

 

Hope United Church
Open Hearts. Open Minds. Open to You!
Sunday, November 8, 2020

________________________________________

A TIME OF REMEMBRANCE

HYMN   VU # 436  “Abide with Me”

Remembrance Prayer
God, our Creator and Redeemer,
in this solemn season of Remembrance,
we are aware of how much war has cost the world you love.

In spite of fighting between nations and neighbours,
you have come to us in Jesus Christ, carrying no sword,
calling us to serve as peace makers.
In this time of worship,
renew in us the hope that you will turn
our swords into ploughshares,
and lead the world from the study of war
to the promise of peace
with justice for all your peoples.

O Canada
O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all of us command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Reading of the Roll

 Laying of the Wreath

 In Flanders Fields
Poem by Dr. John McCrae
Music by John Jacobson and Roger Emerson

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them, nor do years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning.
We will remember them.

Last Post

Reveille

 God Save the Queen
God save our gracious Queen
Long live our noble Queen,
God save The Queen:
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us:
God save The Queen.

Remembrance Day Stories – Female Heroes

O Day of Peace

 

HYMN VU # 682 “O Day of Peace”
O day of peace that dimly shines
through all our hopes and prayers and dreams,
Guide us to justice, truth, and love,
delivered from our selfish schemes.
May swords of hate fall from our hands,
our hearts from envy find release,
Till by God's grace our warring world
shall see Christ's promised reign of peace.

Then shall the wolf dwell with the lamb,
nor shall the fierce devour the small;
as beasts and cattle calmly graze,
a little child shall lead them all.
Then enemies shall learn to love,
all creatures find their true accord;
the hope of peace shall be fulfilled,
for all the earth shall know the Lord.

 

CALL TO WORSHIP

One:  On this Remembrance Sunday we gather to pray
All:    For a world where no one will learn war anymore.
One:  On this day when the guns once fell silent,
All:    We gather to pray for peace to reign in every heart, home and nation.
One:  On this day of hope,
All:    We come before you, God,
To remember all those who gave their lives so we could be free.
One:  In this time of story, song, and prayer,
help us to catch a vision of how the world could live together.
All:    And so, let echo the old prayers—make us channels of your peace.

 

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
We light this candle as a symbol…
A symbol of Christ’s light in the world.
May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Sandy will now lead us in, “Touch us with Your Light”.
The words will appear on your screen.
We will sing it through twice.

“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.

Remembrance Sunday Prayer of Confession
(Presbyterian Church of Canada)
God of mercy, we confess that the world around us is in a mess. Countries turn arguments over territory into threats of terror. Old enemies stir up conflict within their tribes and nations. The threat of violence keeps us all on edge. Forgive us for not learning from past conflicts what leads to peace with justice. Forgive us when we want to settle our own disagreements by keeping conflict alive.

 

ASSURANCE OF GRACE
God of wisdom, we seek insight and understanding from your Word read and proclaimed this day. Move in us by your Spirit to open our hearts and minds to receive your message in the scriptures and respond in faithfulness. Amen.

Christ died so that we might live. Through his undying love, we have been forgiven. Rejoice in the forgiveness God offers us. Be at peace with God and yourself, and make peace with your neighbours, for Christ’s sake. Amen.

Voices United # 37
“Gloria”
Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

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.

(Un-mute to greet one another!)

 

SONG FOR THE CHILDREN
MV # 149       “Peace for the Children”
Peace for the children, peace, peace
Peace for the children we pray
Following the path of One of peace
We work for healing
We work for peace
Peace for the children today!

Peace in our families, peace, peace
Peace in our families we pray
Following the path of One of peace
We work for healing
We work for peace
Peace in our families today!

Peace for our planet, peace, peace
Peace for our planet, we pray
Following the path of One of peace
We work for healing
We work for peace
Peace for our planet, today!

 

FIRST READING         1 Thessalonis 4 :13-18

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.  For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.

According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words.

The word of the Lord!
Thanks be to God!

 

VU # 792        PSALM 78

Refrain: We will tell new generations of the wonders God has done.

Give heed to my teaching, O my people
Turn your ears to the words of my mouth.
          I will open my mouth in a parable;
          I will reveal the hidden meaning of things in the past
What we have heard and known.
What our parents have told us
We will not hide from their grandparents
          But declare to the next generation
          The testimony that you gave to Jacob
          And the law you appointed in Israel
          Which you commanded them to teach their children
That the next generation might know them, children yet unborn,
And these in turn should arise, and tell their children
          That they should put their trust in you.
          And not forget your great deed,
          But keep all your commandments.

Refrain: We will tell new generations of the wonders God has done.

 

GOSPEL READING              Matthew 25: 1-13

Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom  Five of them were foolish, and five were wise.  When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps.cAs the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’  

Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’  And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaid] came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.

 

Excerpt from the  “The War Time Radio Show”
Thanks to: Marion Burt, Sylvia Parrott, Suzanne Oryschak, Gavin Penny, Janice Peters-Gibson, Clair Olanow

 

OFFERING
On Remembrance Day, we mark the costly offering of lives given for the sake of others. What we offer today is small in comparison, but with God’s blessing, our gifts can also make a difference for the sake of others—in Christ’s name.

 

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.

 

OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, we return a portion of all the gifts you have given to us in remembrance and in gratitude for these blessings. Use these gifts to support ministries that bring healing and hope. This we ask this in Jesus’ name. AMEN.

 

PRAYERS OF THE DAY

Response:  Hear our Prayer

On this Remembrance Sunday, let us offer up our call for peace.
Dear Lord, for the worldwide Christian Church and for all people.,
we pray for peace in hearts and homes,
In our nations and our world,
The peace which is your will,
The peace which we so dearly need.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our Prayer

We remember today O Lord all those who have died in the course of war , soldiers who perished in the horror of battle, innocent people buried beneath the rubble from bomb attacks, men women and children brutally attacked and murdered in their villages.

Today we remember especially those victims of the two world wars including those close to us, or to our parents and grandparents. We remember those who came home with terrible injuries, both physical and psychological and those whose loved ones never returned.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our Prayer

Remembering the conflicts of the past and the sacrifices which were made, we pray for a world where war is still a grim reality. Lord as we remember those who have lost their lives, help us to renew our fight against cruelty and injustice, against prejudice, tyranny and oppression. Still we cry out to you in the darkness of our divided world. Let not the hope of men and women perish, let not new clouds rain death upon the earth. Lord hear our prayer for the multitudes in every country who do not want war and are ready to walk the path of peace. May their voice be heard and may they not lose heart.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our Prayer

Lord God, we pray for the leaders of the nations at this time, asking you to pour out your spirit of reconciliation on them. Give them a longing to bring freedom from fear and freedom from want for all peoples. Give strength and courage to those who bear heavy responsibilities for the peace of the world. We pray also for the Christian Church, called to witness to your love in this generation. May Christians work with all men of goodwill to break down the barriers which divide people. May those who profess one faith respect those who sincerely hold another faith and build a community where there is harmony and understanding.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our Prayer

Merciful God, we pray for all who face difficulties in their personal lives - problems in their families, in their friendships, in their neighbourhoods or in their workplace. Help them to be calm in these  times of uncertainty and patient with those around them. Show us when we can help and give support to others around us.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our Prayer

And for intentions now offered, those we now name or hold quietly in our hearts
( mics unmuted)

For all intentions ordered and persons named…

Lord in your mercy
Hear our Prayer

 

LORD’S PRAYER ( Sung) Voices United # 959

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Sunday – On-line worship at 11:00am

Lasagne Take-A-Way Supper – Today Nov. 8th - 1:00-2:00pm - meals may be picked up at the Danforth entrance of the church.

Hope United Annual General Meeting - Sunday, November 22
This will be a service combined with our meeting. A nomination committee has been struck. If you would like to serve on a committee or church board, please email hopeunitedchurch@gmail.com and the committee will be in touch.

Yoga Class – our Yoga classes will resume in virtual mode on Thursday, November 19 at 11:00am. Once the class has premiered, it may be viewed at anytime on our YouTube channel.

Orchestra Toronto – Sunday, December 6 at 1:00pm and 4:00pm. This will be a virtual concert broadcast/ streamed live from our sanctuary. We will keep you updated.

On-Line Messy Church!  - Wednesday, November 11 -  6:00-6:45pm  - Theme is Remembrance.
We will do some activities…then offer a mini-version from our War Time Radio Show.

 

CLOSING PRAYER
(Roots of Prayer)
God of justice and peace,
we pray for those who have been injured
or disabled through war.
For those who have lost homes
and security through conflict;
for those who have lost loved relatives in wars;
for those who face danger and take risks for peace;
for all those, especially children, caught up in current conflicts;
for refugees and all those in need of aid and other help.
God of encouragement
and Saviour of the despairing,
comfort those who remember
past sacrifices
and guide us in building
a just and peaceful community for all.
Amen.

 

VU # 586        “We Shall Go Out with Hope of Resurrection“
We shall go out with hope of resurrection;
we shall go out, from strength to strength go on;
we shall go out and tell our stories boldly;
tales of a love that will not let us go.
We'll sing our songs of wrongs that can be righted;
we'll dream our dream of hurts that can be healed;
we'll weave a cloth of all the world united
within the vision of new life who sets us free.

We'll give a voice to those who have not spoken;
we'll find the words for those whose lips are sealed;
we'll make the tunes for those who sing no longer,
expressive love alive in every heart.
We'll share our joy with those who are still weeping,
raise hymns of strength for hearts that break in grief,
we'll leap and dance the resurrection story
including all in circles of our love.

 

BENEDICTION
When we hold back,
We can only wonder what might have been…
Choose God and rejoice with open heart
For you will see, discover and become God’s love at work in the world

May the blessing of our Lord Jesus Christ, Creator God and Spirit be with you.

Go forth 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 Music

Sunday, November 1, 2020 - All Saints Day - Peace Sunday

November 1, 2020 - 11:00am
All Saints Day - Peace Sunday
The Congregation of Hope United Church
2550 Danforth Avenue, Toronto Ontario, Canada
Rev. Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

HopeUnited.ca

Kandinsky

Kandinsky

PRELUDE

 

WELCOME
Welcome everyone to our Sunday on-line Service of Worship. It is the 1st Sunday in November; a day upon which we celebrate All Saints Day. My name is Rev. Brian Stevens, I am the Minister here at Hope United in Toronto, Canada. We are very pleased to have you with us today. 

Our musicians today are Sandy and myself. You can type greetings and comments at any time in the chat. The order of service will appear on your screen and is also available on our Facebook page and at HopeUnited.ca. We will be celebrating communion today, so if you have not already done so, please gather together a small juice as well as a wafer, cracker or morsel of bread for the communal blessing.

land acknow.jpg

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND
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
I greet you in the name of our risen Lord . We begin our celebration with the singing of “Shall We Gather at the River”. It is found in Voices United # 710.

peace.jpg

Shall we gather at the river?
Where bright angel feet have trod,
With its crystal tide forever
Flowing by the throne of God?

Yes, we'll gather at the river,
The beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river
That flows by the throne of God.

Ere we reach the shining river,
Lay we every burden down.
Grace our spirits will deliver,
And provide a robe and crown

Yes, we'll gather at the river,
The beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river
That flows by the throne of God.

Soon we'll reach the shining river, soon our pilgrimage will cease,
Soon our happy hearts will quiver, with the melody of peace.

Yes, we'll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river,
Gather with the saints at the river, that flows by the throne of God.

bells.jpg

CALL TO WORSHIP
( Seasons of the Spirit)
In all our weakness and strength,
with our youth-filled spirits and aging bodies,

We come to be your people, O God.

Strong in faith and eager with questions,
singing our praise and whispering our prayers,

We come to be your people, O God

Filled with saintly determination
yet mindful of our human limitations,

We come to be your people, O God.

Made strong in your endless love for us,
we know ourselves to be yours and

We come to be your people, O God.

May we truly become your people today. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER
God, our Father, source of all holiness, the work of your hands is manifest in your saints , the beauty of your truth is reflected in their faith. May we who aspire to have part in their joy be filled with the Spirit that blessed their lives, so that having shared their faith on earth we may also know their peace in your kingdom. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

candle.jpg

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
We light this candle as a symbol…
A symbol of Christ’s light in the world.
May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Sandy will now lead us in, “Touch us with Your Light”.
The words will appear on your screen.
We will sing it through twice.

“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.

LITANY OF SAINTS
In honour of All Saints Day I composed music for a “ Litany of the Saints” which is a standard text for today. Sandy and I recorded it at Hope United on Thursday. Here is the link: https://youtu.be/NWUdOVNWTx8.

litany.jpg

Lord have mercy                                                  Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy                                                Christ have mercy
Lord have mercy                                                  Lord have mercy
Pray for us!                                                         Pray for us!

Holy Mary Mother of God                                  Pray for us!
Saint Michael, Holy angel                                   Pray for us!
Abraham, Moses and Elijah                               Pray for us!
Saint Joachim and Saint Anne                           Pray for us!          

Saint Joseph and Saint John the Baptist          Pray for us!
Saint Peter and Saint Paul                                 Saint Andrew and Saint John
Saint Mary Magdalene                                       Pray for us!  

Saint Stephen Saint Ignatius                             Pray for us!
Saint Lawrence Saint John de Brebeouf          Pray for us!
Canadian Martyrs Saint Perpetua                      Saint Felicity and Saint Agnes
Pray for us!                                                         Pray for us!  

Saint Gregory Saint Augustine                          Saint Athanasius Saint Basil
Saint Catherine of Sienna                                  Saint Teresa of Avila
Saint Martin Blessed Francois de Laval            Pray for us!
Saint Benedict, Saint Francis Xavier                 Saint Dominic Saint John Vianny 

Saint Francis and Saint Marguerite                   Pray for us!
Saint Marguerite D'Youville                                Pray for us!
Saint Monica Saint Louis                                    Pray for us!  

Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha                                 Pray for us!
Holy men and Holy women                               Pray for us!  

Keep us free from all temptation                        Bless your church and all the faithful         
Pray for us!                                                         Eternal rest for all your servants
Pray for us!                                                         Pray for us!  

Touch us with your grace and Spirit                   Pray for us!

confess.jpg

PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Our lives are full of mistakes and errors – places where we follow self-generated ideas instead of the guidance of Spirit. We are not alone in these mistakes – all of those who have come before us also were plagued with temptation and sin.

Let us come before God, as generations of believers have done, and pray for God’s forgiveness and grace.

Beloved God, who was known to our mothers and fathers, and our spiritual forebears, have mercy on us.

We do not always love you with all our heart….In our stubbornness, we turn from you when we should turn toward you. Hold us…guide us… redirect us to your path….  that we may once more open our eyes to the light of Christ…our beacon of Hope. Amen.

grace.jpg

ASSURANCE OF GRACE
Written by Rev. Lucus Keppel- Liturgy Link
We praise you for the grace you shower on us,
constantly forgiving our errors,
especially the ones that we don’t share with any but you.
Hear now the silent fears and
worries of our hearts. We rest our hearts upon
Your grace, knowing always your kind forgiveness. Amen.

In response, we sing the Gloria.
It is found in Voices United # 37.

people singing.jpg

“Gloria”
Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

dove.jpg

THE PEACE OF CHRIST

               May the Peace of Christ be with you always.
            And also with you.

                      (Un-mute to greet one another!)

creed.jpg

FIRST READING         Joshua 3: 7-:17
And the LORD said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses.  Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: ‘When you reach the edge of the Jordan’s waters, go and stand in the river.’”

Joshua said to the Israelites, “Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God. This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites.  See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe.  And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.”

So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them.  Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing.

It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (that is, the Dead Sea) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.

This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

Voices United # 831
(Parts one and four)

Refrain: O give thanks to God for steadfast love.

O give thanks, for God is gracious;
God’s steadfast love endures for ever.
Let the redeemed of God say so,
Those redeemed from trouble.
Whom God gathered in from the lands,
From the east and the west,
          From the north and the south. 

Refrain: O give thanks to God for steadfast love.

Some lost their way in desert wastes,
Finding no place to settle,
Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them.
Then they cried to you, God in their trouble;
You rescued them from their distress.
          You led them by a straight path,
          Til they reached a place to settle.
Let them thanks you, O God, for your steadfast love,
For the wonders you do for us.
For you satisfy the thirsty,
And fill the hungry with good things.

Refrain: O give thanks to God for steadfast love.

You turn rivers into desert,
Springs of water into thirsty ground.
          A fruitful land you make  a salty waste,
          Because of the wickedness of its inhabitants.
But you turn deserts into standing pools,
Dry lands into springs of water,
          To give the hungry a home, a place where they can settle.
They sow fields and plant vineyards,
That yield a fruitful harvest.
          You bless them and their numbers increase.
          You do not let their herds diminish.
Whoever is wise, ponder these things.
          Consider God’s unfailing love.

Refrain: O give thanks to God for steadfast love.

GOSPEL READING              Matthew 23:1-12

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.  They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.

“Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues;  they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.

“But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah.  The greatest among you will be your servant.  For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.

Let us join our hearts and voices in the singing of “We Praise You O God”.
The words will be found on your screen and are found in Voices United # 218.

people singing.jpg

“We Praise You O God”
We praise you, O God, our Redeemer, Creator;
in grateful devotion our tribute we bring.
We lay it before you; we kneel and adore you;
we bless your holy name; glad praises we sing.

We worship you; God ever faithful, we bless you;
through life's storm and tempest our guide you have been.
When perils o'ertake us, you will not forsake us,
and with your help, O Lord, life's battles we win.

With voices united our praises we offer,
and gladly our songs of true worship we raise.
Our sins now confessing, we pray for your blessing;
to you, our great Redeemer, forever be praise. 

 

REFLECTION:  “Saints Among Us! ”    - Brian Stevens BA MDiv

 

MUSIC MINISTRY
Peace Like a River, Traditional, arr. Douglas E. Wagner -  Piano & Vocals - Sandy
( https://youtu.be/amasdxxcg_g )

I've got peace like a river,
I've got peace like a river,
I've got peace like a river in my soul.

I've got peace like a river,
I've got peace like a river,
I've got peace like a river in my soul.

Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, singin'
Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen.

I've got peace like a river ,      (Amen,)
I've got peace like a river,      (Amen,)
I've got peace like a river,       (Amen,)
in my soul.                              (Amen, Amen)
singing,

I've got peace like a river ,      (Amen,)
I've got peace like a river,      (Amen,)
I've got peace like a river,       (Amen,)
in my soul.                              (Amen, Amen)

Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen.

 

MORNING OFFERING
At this time we acknowledge the importance of sharing our abundance with our congregation and community, with those in need, with those who simply seek a warm meal and words of comfort. Let us offer thanks for the blessings and bounty in our lives…

 

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
Lord, You have provided many blessings. We come to You today in thanksgiving and our hearts look heavenward. You have provided us a home to take shelter in, clothes to keep us warm, food to nourish our body and water to keep us from being thirsty.

You have given us eyes to see your beautiful creations, a nose to smell the scent of the flowers, ears to hear the birds humming so sweetly in the morning and hands to touch the lives of many. For all these gifts we offer thanks, and now offer our gifts, simple presents, for the good use of the community and all those in need of your blessing. Amen

Let us join our voices in thank as we sing “For the Fruits of all Creation”. It is the first verse from Voices United # 227 and the words will also appear on the screen.

people singing.jpg

“For the Fruits of all Creation”
For the fruits of all creation,
Thanks be to God!
For the gifts to every nation,
Thanks be to God!
For the ploughing, sowing, reaping
Silent needs while we are sleeping
Future needs in earth’s safe keeping
Thanks be to God!

praying.jpg

PRAYER INTERCESSIONS
Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit
may so move every human heart and especially
the hearts of the people of this land, that barriers
which divide us may crumble, suspicions
disappear, and hatreds cease; that our divisions
being healed, we may live in justice and peace
seeing Christ as our example.

We pray to the Lord….

Lord hear our prayer!

For the families and friends of the victims of the attack in Nice…
Our hearts are shaken…our hearts are broken
That people should be harmed…killed in a sacred space.
May the warmth of our prayers embrace and hold them in the days ahead

We pray to the Lord….

Lord hear our prayer!

For the saints and martyrs who have gone before us…
Many laid down their lives in faith for their love and devotion of Christ.
May we learn from their dedication, from their faith…
What it is to love God with all your heart, mind and soul

We pray to the Lord….

Lord hear our prayer!

For our sisters and brothers in the United States…
The next few days will be a tumultuous time.
Let us offer prayers that all voices may be heard
That truth may prevail…
And that all will be safe int eh days and months ahead

We pray to the Lord….

Lord hear our prayer!

Intentions may now be offered, and persons named,
aloud or in the quiet of our hearts…

(mics will be unmuted at this time)

For all those intentions now offered and persons named,
aloud or in the quiet of our hearts…

We pray to the Lord….

Lord hear our prayer!

And with the words our Saviour taught us….we sing

LORD’S PRAYER
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.


LITURGY 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

poppies.jpg

Online Worship next Sunday, November 8 at 11:00am will be our Remembrance Day Sunday. We hope to have another great story from Sylvia as well as a reading of the roll.
For our Messy Church we plan to do a mini War Time Radio Show and hope to share an excerpt with you next Sunday.

blower motor.jpg

We have wind again!... The blower motor for our pipe organ was re-installed Friday afternoon and is purring along very nicely.

lasagna.jpg

Next Sunday, November 8 we will offer our veterans, seniors and families of our community a take-a-way lasagna supper. Meals may be picked up between 1:00-2:00pm.
If you need a meal(s) or know of someone who needs a meal delivered, please email or call/text 647-825-5136 to let us know. If you would like to volunteer, we will need people to help prepare the food Thursday and Friday, then pack into take-a-way containers on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday we will need assistance delivering as well as assisting with the meal pick up.

messy church.jpg

“Remembrance Day” “Messy Church” - November 11 at 6:00pm.
We will invite people to participate in some “ Remembrance Activities” and offer a mini War Time Radio Show. If you would like to read a part or commercial or sing, please let Brian know so he can book a time to record.
This will be a virtual event and zoom will be the same as our Sunday service.
You can also call in using: 647 374 4685   or  647 558 0588
Meeting ID is: 831 7846 1579
Or click on the following link on your computer: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579

Yoga!
I met with Stacey Boreman this week to start planning the logistics for an “On-line/virtual yoga class”. It looks like we will be ready to launch our on-line Yoga Class by Mid November.

Orchestra Toronto has rescheduled their October concert to Sunday, December 6 at 1:00pm and 4:00pm.

Jazz Vespers and Music on A Sunday Afternoon will also re-launch in virtual formats this month. Dates to be announced.

hands and sun.jpg

CLOSING PRAYER
(Church of our Saviour)
May You know that God’s Spirt is beside you to befriend you,
above you to watch over you, and within you to give you courage.
May the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the
Holy Spirit be with you and remain with you always.   Amen.
Let us clearly recognize what it means to be called the children

Sandy will lead us in our closing hymn “Praise to the Lord the Almighty”.
It is found in Voices United #220  and the words will appear on your screen.

“Praise to the Lord, the Almighty”
Praise to the Lord
The Almighty, who rules all creation
O my soul praise Him
At all times your health and salvation
Come all who hear, brothers and sisters  draw near
Joining in glad adoration

Praise to the Lord
Above all things so mightily reigning
Keeping us safe at his side and so gently sustaining
have you not seen, how all you needed has been
Met by God’s gracious ordaining.

Praise to the Lord
Who will prosper our work and defend us;
Surely his goodness and mercy will daily attend us;
Ponder anew, what the Almighty can do
Who out of love will befriend us

Praise to the Lord
O let all that is in me adore Him
All that has life and breath
Come now with praises before Him
Let the amen, sound from God’s people again
Gladly with praise we adore Him

 

BLESSING AND BENEDICTION
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! 
Go in peace to love one another and serve the Lord! 
Thanks be to God. 
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!

 

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

All Saints 2.jpg

 

Sunday, October 25, 2020 - Twenty-First Sunday After Pentecost - Reformation Sunday

October 25, 2020 - 11:00am
Twenty-First Sunday After Pentecost
Reformation Sunday
The Congregation of Hope United Church
2550 Danforth Ave., Toronto Ontario, Canada

Rev. Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

HopeUnited.ca

PRELUDE


WELCOME
Welcome everyone to our Sunday worship. It is the 21st Sunday after Pentecost. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the Minister here at Hope United in Toronto, Canada. We are very pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Sandy, Diana and myself. You can type greetings and comments at any time in the chat. The order of service will appear on your screen and is also available on our Facebook page at HopeUnited.ca.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND
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
I greet you in the name of our risen Lord on this Reformation Sunday . Next Sunday is “ All Saints Day” and will be a communion celebration. Thank you everyone for your kind words and presence for my celebration of ordination; in person, in spirit and virtually.

We begin our celebration with the singing of “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” It is found in Voices United, # 262.
“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”    
A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
With power and malice great, and, armed with cruel hate,
On earth he has no equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,
Were not the right man on our side, the man of God’s own choosing:
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth, his name, from age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed the truth to triumph through us;
The prince of darkness grim, we tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.

That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Christ who with us sideth;
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still,
God’s kingdom is forever.

CALL TO WORSHIP
(from Mennonite Ministry Matters)
As the weak realize their strength;
as the poor eat and are satisfied,
God’s love abides in us.
as the stranger finds a friend;
as the family offers forgiveness,
God’s love abides in us.
As the ends of the earth know of Christ’s grace,
God’s love abides in us. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER
God loves us. We know…yet often forget. May Spirit touch us, nudge us, cajole us, remind us… that we experience life more fully through living into our connection to the divine. Through loving each other, we express our love to You O God… Through moving in the world with Jesus rested upon our hearts, we illuminate Your work in the world…and that is to love. For in such living is enwrapped care, compassion, empathy and sincerity of heart...for God is love and we are of God. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
We light this candle as a symbol…
A symbol of Christ’s light in the world.
May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Sandy will now lead us in, “Touch us with Your Light”.
The words will appear on your screen.
We will sing it through twice.

“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
(from Faithward)
Merciful and gracious God,
Our hearts cry out…
Make us whole again.
Even as we celebrate that you have come to dwell within us,
We have sinned against you
and abandoned your commandments.

We have been jealous, possessive, ambivalent, and impulsive.
We have not heeded your Word and we have not cherished your covenant.

Help us to glorify you in all times and in all places. Our souls thirst for your living waters; quench our needs and satisfy our love. May come back to you and be sent forth to fill the world with your mercy and grace.

In the name of your son, Jesus Christ,
And by the power of the Holy Spirit who is at work within us,
Amen.

ASSURANCE OF GRACE
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.

In response, we sing the Gloria.
It is found in Voices United # 37.

“Gloria”
Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia!

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.

(Un-mute to greet one another!)

FIRST READING         1 Thessalonians  2:1-83

You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results.  We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition.  For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you.

On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.  You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness.  We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. Instead, we were like young children among you.

Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.

This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

PSALM 90 Voice United # 805

Refrain: In every age O God, You have been our refuge.

God, you have been our refuge in every generation
Before the mountains were brought forth
Before the earth and the world were formed
From age to age everlasting you are God.
You turn frail humans back to dust, saying” Return you mortals”
For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday
A day that is past, a watch in the night
You sweep them away like a dream, like grass that is fresh in the morning
          like grass that is fresh in the morning
          but in the evening is dried up and withered

Refrain: In every age O God, You have been our refuge 

Your anger consumes us, your wrath overwhelms us
You set our misdeeds before us
Our secret sins in the light of your countenance
All our days pass away under your anger
Our years come to an end light a sigh
          The days of our life are seventy years, even eighty, if we are strong
Yet who understands the power of your anger?
Who considers the fierceness of your wrath?
Teach us to count our days
That we may apply our hearts to wisdom.

Refrain: In every age O God, You have been our refuge  

GOSPEL READING              Matthew 22:34-46

Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question:  “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them,  “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?”  “The son of David,” they replied.

He said to them, “How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him ‘Lord’? For he says,

“‘The Lord said to my Lord :“Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies  under your feet.”’

If then David calls him ‘Lord,’ how can he be his son?”  No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions.

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.

Let us join our hearts and voices in the singing of “Come and Seek the Ways of Wisdom”. The words will be found on your screen and are found in More Voices # 10.

“Come and Seek the Ways of Wisdom” 
Come and Seek the Ways of Wisdom,
She who danced when earth was new.
Follow closely what she teaches,
For her words are right and true.
Wisdom clears the path to justice,
Showing us what lave must do.

Listen to the voice of Wisdom,
Crying in the market places.
Hear the Word made flesh among us,
Full of glory, truth and grace.
When the word takes root and ripens,
Peace and righteousness embrace.

Sister Wisdom, come assist us,
Nurture all who seek rebirth.
Spirit guide and close companions,
Bring to light our sacred worth.
Free us to become your people,
Holy friends of God and earth.

REFLECTION:  “Reformed with Unconditional Love ”  - Brian Stevens BA MDiv

MUSIC MINISTRY
“The Great Commandment” by Diana Chappell from Tapestry of Love
Images from M4 – a Multi-Media Matthew Musical

Love God with all your heart, mind, and soul,
and your neighbour as your-self.
Trust in God, live with hope,
Remember that you have good news to tell,
God's love is yours to share,
You must show the world that you care,
Love God with all your heart, mind and  soul
and your neighbour as your-self.

MORNING OFFERING
Karl Barth, a Swiss theologian once said: “grace and gratitude go together like heaven and earth.” At this time we acknowledge the importance of sharing our abundance with our congregation and community, with those in need, with those who simply seek a warm meal and words of comfort. Let us offer thanks for the blessings and bounty in our lives…

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
The Way of Jesus Christ is a life lived in gratitude for the God who has created us and claimed us as her own. In gratitude for God’s gifts, let’s give back to God our gifts of time, talent, and treasure for God’s mission in the world.

Lord we ask you to receive our gifts ….may their use reform and inspire this community of faith; as you remake the world in your image.

We ask this is Jesus’ name. Amen.

“Grateful”
Grateful for the life you give us
Thankful for you Holy Son,
Joyful in your Spirit flowing
Over all, O God of Love.

Grateful for the Bread of Heaven
Thankful for you Holy word
Joyful in your mercy flowing
We will praise you.

May our lives proclaim you justice,
May our voices sing your praise
May our work in your service
To the glory of your name

Grateful for the life you give us
Thankful for you Holy Son,
Joyful in your Spirit flowing
Over all, O God of Love.

Grateful for the Bread of Heaven
Thankful for you Holy word
Joyful in your mercy flowing
We will praise you.


PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
(Rev. Ryan Slifka – a service for Reformation Sunday)

God of Grace and God of Glory,
On this Reformation Sunday,
we give you thanks for the saints who have gone before us.
For those who faced trouble and trial, and even death,

for the sake of the message of your mercy
and in the spirit of Pentecost,
to hear and read the scriptures in their own languages.

We pray to the Lord
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray especially for those who now face trouble, trial, even death,
for those members of the body of Christ who face persecution.
For your beloved children everywhere—regardless of tradition—
who live under the threat of religious persecution.
For people, especially those of us who are Indigenous,
who face the extinction of their own languages
through neglect, oppression, or cultural pressure…

We pray to the Lord
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray that all may hear the good news of the Prince of Peace in ways that resonate,
and cause us to drop our weapons and defenses for the sake of peace in the world…

We pray to the Lord
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray that you may help us not only walk in the shoes of our forebears,
but fill them.
May all of us gathered here today
be as captivated by the life you have given us in Christ
that we are freed to reach our friends, neighbours,
and enemies with your unconditional love.

We pray to the Lord
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, we pray for the world you love
in hope, and in trust,
that we and your church might carry the light
that has been passed down through the centuries,
so we might be a beacon of your love to the world.

We pray to the Lord
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

And for all those in need of your healing love…those we name aloud or hold in silence…
May the prayers of our heart be lifted to your ear this day…

(mics will be unmated so that you may offer prayers of intentions)

For all those named… for all intentions offered

We pray to the Lord
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

With the words our Saviour taught us….let us sing the Lord’s prayer. It is Voices United # 959 and the words will appear on your screen.

LORD’S PRAYER
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.

 

MINUTE FOR MISSION
In India, Mission & Service partner Human Rights and Advocacy Research Foundation works with fishing communities, urban poor, traditional farmers, prisoners, Dalits (people of low caste), and Adivasis (Indigenous people) in the continuing struggle for economic and social justice.

One of its programs helps children whose families cannot provide essential school supplies. In addition, it educates the children on their human rights. Here are two of the children who have benefitted from this program.

Lilly is 15 years old. Her mother is a street fish vendor, and her father is a daily wage fisher who is not well. Lilly says, “Sometime we struggle to make ends meet.” Lilly wants to become an accountant. Her mother, Mohana, says, “I will not forget this timely help which prevented me from going into debt.”

Thilagavathy is 15 years old. Her father is a fisher and is unable to contribute much to the family’s income. Her mother is a street fish vendor whose income sustains the family. Thilagavathy wants to become a police officer. Her mother says, “She is bright in her studies, and I did not have the means...I am so thankful.”

With Mission & Service partners, the United Church works to achieve access to education for everyone, regardless of income or social status. This work is an essential part of securing greater justice, broad-based participation in society, and the eradication of poverty.

If Mission & Service giving is already a regular part of your life, thank you so much! If you have not given, please consider making Mission & Service giving a regular part of your life of faith. Loving our neighbour is at the heart of our Mission & Service.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Online Worship next Sunday, November 1 at 11:00am.

My thanks to everyone who assisted with the ordination service last Sunday, and those who attended in person and virtually. I so much appreciate your support.
The YouTube link is to the entire service is:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxDHpFWwDBU
The YouTube link to the ordination liturgy is:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAD8CTyXoRs
The link is also posted on our website, HopeUnited.ca and Facebook page.

“Remembrance Day Messy Church” - November 11 at 6:00pm.
This will be a virtual event and zoom will be the same as our Sunday service.
You can also call in: 647 374 4685  or  647 558 0588 and the Meeting ID is: 831 7846 1579 or click on the following link on your computer: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178461579.

Yoga! I will be meeting with Stacey Boreman this week to start planning the logistics for an “On-line/virtual yoga class”. We hope to hold our first class before the end of October!

Orchestra Toronto has rescheduled their October concert  to Sunday, December 6 at 1:00pm and 4:00pm. We will keep you updated as to whether or not this will be a virtual concert or audience is allowed permitted.

CLOSING PRAYER
(Bruce Prewer- Uniting Church of Australia)

God of Jesus and our God, mindful of all those choice
souls who have gone on ahead of us, teach us,
and each twenty-first century disciple of every race and place,
              to follow their example to the best of our ability:
              to feed the poor in body or spirit,
              to support and comfort the mourners and the repentant,
              to encourage the meek and stand with them in crises,
              to affirm those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
              to cherish and learn from the merciful,
              to be humbled by, and stand with, the peacemakers.

Let us clearly recognize what it means to be called the children of God, and to know we are to be your saints neither by our own inclination nor in our own strength but simply by the call and the healing holiness of Christ Jesus our Saviour. Amen!

Sandy will lead us in our closing hymn “Sent Out in Jesus Name”.
It is found in More Voices # 212  and the words will appear on your screen.

“Sent Out in Jesus Name”
Sent out in Jesus' name,
our hands are ready now
to make the earth the place
in which the kingdom comes.

Sent out in Jesus' name,
our hands are ready now
to make the earth 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.

COMMISSIONING
Go out into the world,
living in the light of Christ!
By the power of the Spirit
do all the good you can
by all the means you can
in all the ways you can
in all the places you can
at all the times you can
to all the people you can
as long as ever you can.
—words attributed to John Wesley

BLESSING
And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the love of God,
and the communion of the Holy Spirit
be yours this day, and every other one.
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, October 18, 2020 - World Food Sunday

October 18, 2020 - 11:00am
World Food Sunday
The Congregation of Hope United Church
2550 Danforth Avenue, Toronto Ontario, Canada

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

HopeUnited.ca

world food day.jpg

PRELUDE


WELCOME
Welcome everyone to our  Sunday worship. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the Pastoral Charge Supervisor at Hope United in Toronto, Canada. We are so pleased to have you with us today.  Our musician today is Sandy. You can type greetings and comments at any time in the chat. A copy of the order of service was emailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our Facebook page and website HopeUnited.ca.

acknowledgement.jpg

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND
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
I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship this World Food Sunday. We continue to celebrate the abundance of creation as we begin our fall harvest, yet do this knowing we have yet to achieve food for all. Let us gather hearts in song.

“I Have Called You By Your Name” …The words will also appear on your screen and it is found in More Voices # 161.

Picture5.jpg

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 instead of doubt,
Hold the hem of Jesus’ robe, then let it go.

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.

trees.jpg

CALL TO WORSHIP

We know that hunger exists…
Yet it is growing.
We also know that hunger need not exist
Yet it is still growing …
Christ calls us to do all that we can
To grow food, not hunger
To share food,
That all may be fed, and hunger no more.
Amen.

 

OPENING PRAYER
Let us take a few quiet moments to give thanks and to pray for our neighbors who will not eat enough this day…  that they may be filled, and for our country and those who shape its policies: that the elimination of hunger may truly become a national priority, both here and in every land.

Let us pray for ourselves that we may be filled with such love for those who hunger that we commit ourselves to unaccustomed actions that will send a strong, determined signal to world leaders to work for an end to hunger on our bountiful planet earth.

Picture6.jpg

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
We light this candle as a symbol…
A symbol of Christ’s light in the world.
May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Sandy will now lead us in, “Touch Us With Your Light”.
The words will appear on your screen.
We will sing it through twice.

“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
(Jan Berry, England, in Bread of Tomorrow)
God, You heap your love upon us like a parent providing for a family’s needs, embracing a child with tenderness. Forgive us when, like spoiled children, we treat Your generosity as our right, or hug it possessively to ourselves. Give us enough trust to live secure in Your love and to share it freely with others in open-handed confidence that Your grace will never run out. Amen.

Picture7.jpg

ASSURANCE OF GRACE
(Nathan Nettleton)
Jesus, the Son of God, was tempted in every way that we are, and is now at the throne of grace presenting to God our case for mercy. Therefore, we can approach God in confidence. Sisters and Brothers, your sins are forgiven; be at peace.

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

Picture5.jpg

Voices United # 37      “Gloria”
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.

Gavin will unmute our mics so that we may greet one another!

 

FIRST READING        Exodus 33:12-33

Moses said to the LORD, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’  If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”

The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?”

And the LORD said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.”

Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.”

And the LORD said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.  But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”

Then the LORD said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock.  When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.”

This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

food for all.jpg

PSALM 99 Voices United # 819

Refrain: You rule with justice in delight, and faithfulness maintain.

You reign, O God, and the peoples tremble.
You sit enthroned upon the cherubim, and the earth is quaking.
You, O God, are great in Zion,
You are exalted over all the nations.
Let them praise your great and awesome name:
Holy are you and mighty, a ruler who delights in justice.
You have determined what is fair,
You have done in Jacob what is just and right.

Refrain: You rule with justice in delight, and faithfulness maintain.

Moses and Aaron were among your priests,
Miriam amongst those who called on your name;
They called to you, God, and you answered.
In the pillar of cloud you spoke to them,
They kept your teachings and the law that you gave them.
O God, our God, you answered them;
            To them you were a forgiving God
            Though you punished their offences.
Proclaim the greatness of God
And worship on God’s holy hill;
For God, our God, is the Holy One.

Refrain: You rule with justice in delight, and faithfulness maintain.

coin.png

GOSPEL READING        Matthew 22:15-22

Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?”

But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me?  Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied.

Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away.

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.

 

Let us join our hearts and voices in the singing of “We Praise You O God”.
The words will be found on your screen and are found in Voices United # 218. 

Picture5.jpg

“We Praise You O God”
We praise you, O God, our Redeemer, Creator;
in grateful devotion our tribute we bring.
We lay it before you; we kneel and adore you;
we bless your holy name; glad praises we sing.

We worship you; God ever faithful, we bless you;
through life's storm and tempest our guide you have been.
When perils o'ertake us, you will not forsake us,
and with your help, O Lord, life's battles we win.

With voices united our praises we offer,
and gladly our songs of true worship we raise.
Our sins now confessing, we pray for your blessing;
to you, our great Redeemer, forever be praise.

 

REFLECTION:  “A World Without Hunger! ”           - Brian Stevens BA MDiv

 

MUSIC MINISTRY
“He Shall Feed His Flock” (from Messiah, by George Frederick Handel) sung by Sandy
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd,
And He shall gather the lambs with his arm
With his arm
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd
And He shall gather the lambs with his arm
With his arm
And carry them in his bosom.
And gently lead those
That are with young
And gently lead those
And gently lead those
That are with young. 

Come unto Him
All ye that labour,
Come unto Him, ye
That are heavy laden.
And He will give you rest
Come unto Him
All ye that labour,
Come unto Him, ye
That are heavy laden
And He will give you rest.

Take his yoke upon you
And learn of Him;
For He is meek
And lowly of heart,
And ye shall find rest,
And ye shall find rest
Unto your souls.

Take his yoke upon you
And learn of Him;
For He is meek
And lowly of heart,
And ye shall find rest,
And ye shall find rest
Unto your souls.

 

MORNING OFFERING
At this time we acknowledge the importance of sharing our abundance with our congregation and community, with those in need, with those who simply seek a warm meal and words of comfort. Let us offer thanks for the blessings and bounty in our lives…

Africa.jpg

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
(World Food Day Resources)
God of Justice and Mercy…The gifts we bring are so small in comparison to the vast needs in our world…

Nowhere near enough to save the thousands who are dying of starvation or malnutrition, or even to meet the needs of the hungry and homeless in our city. Yet we come with open hands…bringing what we can.

As you once multiplied the five loaves and two fish, multiply these gifts as well, so that, once again, the hungry may receive all they need, and more. Amen.

Let us join our voices in thanks as we sing “For the Fruits of all Creation”. It is the first verse from Voices United # 227 and the words will also appear on the screen. 

Picture5.jpg

“For the Fruits of all Creation”
For the fruits of all creation,
Thanks be to God!
For the gifts to every nation,
Thanks be to God!
For the ploughing, sowing, reaping
Silent needs while we are sleeping
Future needs in earth’s safe keeping
Thanks be to God!

Picture12.jpg

PRAYER INTERCESSIONS
Compassionate God,
You have compassion enough for all.

Lord in your mercy,
Have compassion for us.

Jesus, out of your compassion for us,
you invite us to come away with you
to a place of rest and quiet.
Help us to say yes
and then to be able to come away with you.

Lord in your mercy,
Have compassion for us.

Lord, out of your compassion
you care for those who are harassed, helpless, and lost.
Sometimes we feel that way ourselves

Lord in your mercy,
Have compassion for us.

Lord in your compassion teach us to follow you,
to trust you,
to love you
and to love as you love.

Lord in your mercy,
Have compassion for us.

Lord in your compassion feed us who are hungry;
Physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Lord in your compassion heal us
in the places we need healed.

Lord in your mercy,
Have compassion for us.

Lord in your having compassion for us
Teach us to have compassion for others as you do.
Help us to show compassion in action the way you did.
And remind us when it is time to come away with you for quiet and rest.

Lord in your mercy,
Have compassion for us.

Lord for all those now named aloud,
or in the quiet of our hearts..

(mics will be unmuted so you may offer your intentions)

For all those named aloud or in the silence of our hearts

Lord in your mercy,
Have compassion for us.

With the words our Saviour taught us….let us sing the Lord’s prayer. It is Voices United # 959 and the words will appear on your screen.

LORD’S PRAYER
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.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Online Worship next Sunday, October 25 at 11:00am.

Picture13.jpg

This afternoon…. October 18th at 3:00pm I will be ordained into the pulpit at Hope United and officially become your called minister. I would like to invite you to join the celebration in person, or via YouTube using the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxDHpFWwDBU. The link is also posted on our website, HopeUnited.ca and Facebook page. If you wish to attend in person please send an email to HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com so that we may add you to the list at the door.

Picture14.jpg

Thank you to Suzanne and the team of volunteers who assisting in our very first “Take-a-way Turkey Dinner”. We served 80 meals…60 pick up and 20 delivered. Well done everyone!

Picture15.jpg

We held our first  “ On-Line mini Messy Church on Wednesday, October 14 at 6:00pm. We had some technical challenges… learned  many things and also had tons of great suggestions on how to improve the format. Thanks to everyone who participated!

Yoga! I will be meeting with Stacey Boreman this week to start planning the logistics for an “On-line/virtual yoga class”. We hope to hold our first class before the end of October!

Orchestra Toronto had hoped to host their fall concert at Hope United on October 25th.  It has now been postponed to Sunday, December 6 due to recent covid 19 restrictions. We will keep you updated.

Picture19.jpg

CLOSING PRAYER
Most gracious God,
who gives the fruits of the earth for the
benefit of all your creatures,
we give thanks to you for abundant harvests
and plentiful food.

We pray for those in our land who are denied these gifts,
and we seek your forgiveness for our complicity in their want.
We pray for those whose voices are not heard and for those who do not hear.
For give us when our choices are selfish ones,  
and forgive us especially when we do not choose to raise our own voice against the pain of those among us who suffer needless want.

Most of all, God, we give you thanks for the revelation of your love in Jesus Christ,
who came that everyone
might have abundant life.
We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sandy will lead us in our closing hymn “Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty”. It is found in Voices United # 315  and the words will appear on your screen.

VU # 315 “Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty”
Holy, holy, holy,
Lord, God Almighty,
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee.
Holy, holy, holy,
Merciful and mighty,
God in three persons blessed Trinity.

Holy, holy, holy,
All the saints adore thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea,
Cherubim and seraphim
Falling down before thee,
Which was and art, and evermore shall be.

Holy, holy, holy,
Though the darkness hide Thee,
Though the eye of sinful man thy glory may not see.
Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee
Perfect in power, in love, and purity

Holy, holy, holy,
Lord, God Almighty,
All Thy works shall praise Thy name in earth and sky and sea;
Holy, holy, holy
Merciful and mighty,
God in three persons blessed Trinity.

 

BLESSING AND BENEDICTION
Go now and invest your lives in the works of faith.
Make a name for yourselves for generosity and compassion.
Fulfill God’s holy law by putting love into action
as eagerly for others as you would for yourselves.

And may God be your defender and provider;
May Christ Jesus dispel all that disturbs or immobilizes you;
and may the Holy Spirit make you rich in faith
and loving and merciful in action.
We go in peace to love and serve the Lord,
In the name of Christ. 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

food for all 2.jpg

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, October 11, 2020 - Thanksgiving Sunday

October 11, 2020 - 11:00am
Thanksgiving Sunday
The Congregation of Hope United Church
2550 Danforth Avenue, Toronto Ontario, Canada

Worship Leader - Brian Stevens  BA. MDiv

HopeUnited.ca

Picture2.jpg

PRELUDE

WELCOME
Welcome everyone to our Thanksgiving Sunday worship. My name is Brian Stevens, I am the Pastoral Charge Supervisor at Hope United in Toronto, Canada. We are so pleased to have you with us today.  Our musicians today are Sandy, Suzanne and myself. You can type greetings and comments at any time in the chat. A copy of the order of service was emailed out with your invitation. It is also available on our Facebook page and website HopeUnited.ca.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE LAND
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.

Picture3.jpg
Picture4.jpg

GREETING
I greet you in the name of our risen Lord and welcome you to our service of worship this Thanksgiving Sunday. It is a time to celebrate the abundance of creation as we begin our fall harvest. The farmers markets are full of beautiful fruit and vegetables…vibrant coloured leaves waffle in the air, then fall gently to the ground. The air is crisp and cool…fall is upon us. Yet we must celebrate in different ways this year, virtually or in small family groups. I pray that you stay connected and close; yet keep safe in the days and months ahead. Let us offer thanks with our voices, as we gather hearts with our opening hymn…

“Now Thank We all Our God”…The words will also appear on your screen and it is found in Voices United # 236.

Picture5.jpg

Now thank we all our God,
with heart, and hands, and voices,
who wondrous things has done,
in whom this world rejoices;
who, from our mother's arms,
has blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.

O may this bounteous God
through all our life be near us,
with ever joyful hearts
and blessed peace to cheer us.
and keep us strong in grace,
and guide us when perplexed,
and free us from all ill,
in this world and the next.

All praise and thanks to God,
for all that has been given,
the Son, and Spirit blest
who dwell in highest heaven.
The one eternal God,
whom heaven and earth adore,
for thus it was, is now,
and shall be evermore.

 

CALL TO WORSHIP
(Carol Penner – leading in worship) 
The world is filled with the glory of God, and we say,
Thank you!
The hills and valleys are filled with colour, and we say,
Thank you!
The vines and trees are filled with fruit, and we say,
Thank you!
Our tables are overflowing with food, and we say,
Thank you!
Our life is filled with love of family and friends, and we say,
Thank you!
We fill this house of God with our voices, saying,
Thank you!
May the words of our mouths
and the meditations of our hearts
be acceptable to you, O God,
as enter into this service of thanksgiving and praise. Amen.

 

OPENING PRAYER
(adapted from Erika Kobewka)
Today we offer our thanksgiving and gratitude
to the Giver of all good and perfect gifts,
For the tables we share, meals with family and friends
For meals we share with those we do not know,
your blessing upon them this day.

For the hands of friendship that have been extended to us
and the grace we have received in our moments of trial
For Your continued presence in our lives,
For the embrace of love, and the endless blessing of each new day that dawns…
We are thankful O Lord.
In all things, we give You thanks and join with creation's song
As we offer thanks for the gifts and blessing we discover in each day. Amen. 

Picture6.jpg

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE
We light this candle as a symbol…
A symbol of Christ’s light in the world.
May it burn brightly within us all. Amen.

Sandy will now lead us in, “Touch us with Your Light”.
The words will appear on your screen.
We will sing it through twice.

“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
Gracious Creator,
you have given us so much,
but too often we take those gifts for granted,
or as something to which we are entitled.

You call us to live in caring community,
but too often we place our wants and needs first,
with those of others a distant second.
You call us to share Your gifts with the world around us,
but we are worried that there may not be enough,
and our worrying gets in the way of our sharing.

For all the times when we mistreat and misuse Your gifts,
for all the times we assume that we get what we have by ourselves,
forgive us and lead us back to the path of wisdom.


ASSURANCE OF GRACE
(from Worship offerings)

Picture7.jpg

God is a gracious giver.
God is gracious in forgiveness.
God calls us to new patterns and new life.
We are a forgiven people!
Thanks be to God! Amen.

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

Voices United # 37      “Gloria”
Gloria, Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, Gloria, alleluia, alleluia! 

Picture8.jpg

THE PEACE OF CHRIST
May the Peace of Christ be with you always.
And also with you.

Gavin will unmute our mics so that we may greet one another!

 

FIRST READING        Deuteronomy 8:7-17

For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land - a land with brooks, streams, and deep springs gushing out into the valleys and hills; a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills.

When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day.

Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down,  and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied,  then your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock.  He gave you manna to eat in the wilderness, something your ancestors had never known, to humble and test you so that in the end it might go well with you. You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today. 

This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

Picture9.jpg

PSALM 106 Voices United # 830

Refrain: O give thanks to God, whose love endures forever.

O give thanks, for God is good,
God’s love endures forever.
            Who can recount your might acts, O God,
            Or tell of all your praise.

Refrain: O give thanks to God, whose love endures forever.

Blessed are those who act justly,
And always do what is right.
            Remember me, God, when you show favour to your people
            And come to me with your saving help.
May I see the prosperity of your chosen,
            May I share the joy of your nation,
            And exult with the people you have made your own.

Refrain: O give thanks to God, whose love endures forever.

We have sinned like our ancestors,
            We have erred, and acted wickedly.
They made a young bull at Horeb,
And worshipped that molten image.
            They exchanged the glory of God
            For the image of a creature that feeds on grass.
They forgot that you were the God who saved them
By your mighty acts in Egypt.
            The wonders you had done in the land of Ham,
            Awesome deeds at the Red Sea.
You would have destroyed them
Had not Moses, your chosen one, stood at the breach.
            He turned back your wrath from their destruction.

Refrain: O give thanks to God, whose love endures forever.

Picture10.jpg

GOSPEL READING        Luke 17:11-19

Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance  and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”

When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.

One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.  He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.

Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”

Hear the Good News of Christ!
Praise to you, O Christ.


Let us join our hearts and voices in the singing of “Bless the Lord”. Words will appear on your screen and it is also found in More Voices # 46.

MV # 46 “Bless the Lord”

Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.

Remember the kindness of our God,
Who showers us with blessing all our days.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.

Remember the justice of our God,
Who stands with those forgotten and confused.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.

Remember the healing of our God,
Who calls us to be whole and to be free.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, bless God’s holy name.

REFLECTION:  “Soul Health … Offering thanks! ” - Brian Stevens BA MDiv

MUSIC MINISTRY
“ Rejoice in the Lord”  Sung by Sandy
Rejoice in the Lord, always, and again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord, always, and again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord, always, and again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord, always, and again I say rejoice.
Let your softness be known unto all men,
Let your softness be known unto all men,
The Lord is e’en at hand,
Be careful for nothing:
But in all prayer and supplication
Let your petitions, let your petitions be manifest unto God
Be manifest unto God with giving of thanks
With giving of thanks
And the peace of God which passeth all understanding
Understanding
Keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesu
Through Christ Jesu;
Keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesu
Through Christ Jesu.
Amen, Amen, Amen.

MORNING OFFERING
At this time we acknowledge the importance of sharing our abundance with our congregation and community, with those in need, with those who simply seek a warm meal and words of comfort. Let us offer thanks for the blessings and bounty in our lives…

Picture11.jpg

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
(a Mennonite prayer)
 God of all creation,
Thank you for the wonderful things you have made.
Thank you for the universe full of stars and planets.
Thank you for our world, full of life.
Thank you for making each one of us.
Thank you for loving each one of us.
Take these gifts we now offer back to you.
May they be used to the glory of your name.
We offer you ourselves and all the gifts you have blessed us with.
Take us and use us to share your love with the world. Amen

Let us join our voices in thank as we sing  “For the Fruits of all Creation”. It is the first verse from Voices United # 227 and the words will also appear on the screen.

VU # 227 “For the Fruits of all Creation”, v. 1
For the fruits of all creation,
Thanks be to God.
For the gifts to every nation,
Thanks be to God.
For the ploughing, sowing reaping,
Silent growth while we are sleeping,
Future needs in earth’s safekeeping,
Thanks be to God.

Picture12.jpg

PRAYERS OF THE DAY

Let us centre our hearts in prayer

Ever faithful Lord,
Ever giving Son,
Ever present Spirit,
For the many gifts you grant us
and the opportunity to enjoy these things;
For your daily provision
and for the constant signs of your healing love;
For the hope amidst despair
and the light which always shines;
For all these things,
‘thank you’ is just so inadequate
but it’s all we have:
… to show our gratitude in word, in thought and in action.

….a moment of silence

So thank you, Lord
and may our thanks move beyond words
to transform us into thankful folk,
faithful folk,
seeing folk,
folk who see need and see the need to act,
folk who love to live and live to love,
folk who serve you by serving others.
Help us to be amongst those
who include the excluded
and bring in those who are marginalized,
that when the opportunities come our way
to be healers of division and hurt,
to be peacemakers
and restorers,
we won’t be found wanting.

….a moment of silence…

Loving, personal Saviour,
We bring before you those people and issues that are closest to us
and that occupy our minds at this time …

…mics unmuted for intentions and names of people for prayers…

Mighty, wonderful Creating God
we bring before you people and issues from around our world,
including those we’ll never know personally
but who remain our sisters and brothers in you …

…mics unmuted for intentions

Transforming, healing Spirit
help us to make the light shine in dark places,
to make peace known in violent places,
and to bring hope to despondent places.

Our prayers, spoken and silent
are brought to you now
in the name of your Son, Jesus,
the healer, includer and redeemer, forever.
Amen.

Now with the words that our Saviour taught us….let us sing the Lord’s prayer. It is Voices United # 959 and the words will appear on your screen. 

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 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.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS
•      Online Worship next Sunday, October 18 at 11:00am.

Picture13.jpg

•      Next  Sunday…. October 18th at 3:00pm I would like to invite you to my service of ordination at Hope United. You may attend in person (we are limited to 93 persons)  or virtually on YouTube. The link is  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxDHpFWwDBU. We will also need some volunteers to assist in welcoming and seating people. Please advise if you would like to attend in person, please confirm by email: HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com, a message at the church office 416-691-9682 or call/text my cell phone 647-825-5136. Thank you to everyone who has walked with me these past several years in my journey towards this most special day!

•      Would you like to join us for a take-out turkey dinner?

Picture14.jpg

Following our service today from 1:00- 2:00pm we will have Turkey Dinners for Seniors and Families available for pick up the church. Please use the Danforth entrance. For those who have made the request to have their meals delivered, that will take place between 2:30- 3:30pm.

Picture15.jpg

•      We will do our first “On-Line Messy Church” on Wednesday, October 14 at 6:00pm. It will be broadcast on our usual zoom link, Facebook page and on our YouTube channel.

•      The exterior foundation edge of back wing of our building has now been sealed, some old drains capped and work done so that water will drain away from the building. Week II and it still appears to be dry. The cost of that work was $1900…donations to the property fund would be greatly appreciated.

Picture23.jpg
Picture24.jpg

 Concrete and gym wall are now drying well.  We will soon be ready for some volunteers to scrape and paint. Once engineering consult is done, we will relay the floor; hopefully within the next week. The estimate for cost of materials for this project is $1912. Once again, donations to the property fund would be greatly appreciated.

Picture17.jpg

•      Our Main Street Sign has been restored and reinstalled on the building. Thank you Suzanne for many hours of work… It looks great!

Picture18.jpg

To make a donation to the property fund, or your weekly offering, you can send along a cheque to the Church: 2550 Danforth Avenue, Toronto M4C 1LC or by credit card through the CanadaHelps website: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/hope-united-church/. In Search: select Hope United Church Toronto, then click on the connection. Then use Donate Now and proceed. (Note that CanadaHelps levies a 4% service fee so your donation will be for the lower unless you select donating the 4% fee to CanadaHelps which is a charity so you will receive a tax receipt.)

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

Picture19.jpg

CLOSING PRAYER
Creator God
We thank You for food and remember the hungry.
We thank You for health and remember the sick.
We thank You for friends and remember the friendless.
We thank you for freedom and remember the enslaved.

May these remembrances stir us to  your service.
Moving always with a thankful heart. Amen.

Sandy will lead us in our closing hymn “Ev’ry Day Is a Day of Thanksgiving”. It is found in More Voices # 185 and the words will appear on your screen.

MV # 185 “Ev’ry Day is a Day of Thanksgiving”
Ev’ry day is a day of thanksgiving, God,
You’ve been good to me.
Ev’ry Day you’re blessing me
Ev’ry day is a day of thanksgiving,
I will glorify you, O my Lord, today

Ev’ry day is a day of thanksgiving, God,
You’ve been good to me.
Ev’ry Day you’re blessing me
Ev’ry day is a day of thanksgiving,
I will glorify you, O my Lord, today

You keep blessing me, blessing me, blessing me,
You opened the door that I might see, you’re blessing me,
And you keep blessing me, blessing me, blessing me,
I will glorify you, O my Lord. Today.

You keep blessing me, blessing me, blessing me,
You opened the door that I might see, you’re blessing me,
And you keep blessing me, blessing me, blessing me,
I will glorify you, O my Lord. Today.

Picture20.jpg

BLESSING AND BENEDICTION
Go forth into the world with a thankful heart…
Go forth assured of God’s everlasting grace and love
And may the peace that passes all understanding
Be with you this day and always. 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

Picture21.jpg

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