Jan. 13

January 13, 2008

Call to Worship & Welcome
Opening Song: “Arise, Shine”
Prayer for Illumination
Old Testament Reading: “God’s Servant”
Isaiah 42:1-9
Discussion: God makes us alive with God’s own life.

Peace Song: “The Servant Song”
Passing of the Peace
Praise Song: “Halle, Halle, Halle”
Gospel Reading: Matthew 3:13-17
Joys and Concerns
Pastoral Prayer
Prayer Song: “Guide My Feet”
New Testament Reading:
Acts 10
Message
Litany of Response
One: You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ – he is Lord of all. That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced.
Many: How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power;
One: how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.
Many: For in Jesus every one of God’s promises is a ‘Yes.’ For this reason it is through him that we say the ‘Amen,’ to the glory of God.
One: It is God who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us, by putting God’s seal on us and giving us the Spirit in our hearts as a first installment.
All: By his baptism, Jesus opened the door of repentence to all who are baptized. We ask God to make us servants of the Gospel in the world.
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Call to Confession
Confession (in unison)
Merciful God, in baptism you promise forgiveness and new life, making us part of the body of Christ. We confess that we remain preoccupied with ourselves, separated from sisters and brothers in Christ. We cling to destructive habits, hold grudges and show reluctance to welcome one another; we allow the past to hold us hostage.
In your loving kindness, have mercy on us, and free us from sin. Remind us of the promises you make in baptism so that we may rise to new life, and live together in grace. Amen.
Silent Prayer
Assurance of Pardon Song: “I Know the Lord Laid His Hands on Me”
Testimony as the Spirit leads
Charge to the people
Benediction
Closing song: “God Be With You Till We Meet Again”

Please meet for refreshments and fellowship downstairs following altworship.