CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW are shared ELECTRONICALLY Contact unitedchurch@tds.net or call 802-228-4211 for more information. _________________________________________________________________________ If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us. The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am. We follow procedures to minimize the risk of exposure. Please read and follow those procedures for the safety of all. If you are not able to attend in person, a simultaneous Zoom stream is available. Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get Zoom access. _________________________________________________________________________ ANNOUNCEMENTS We wish to thank Rev. Bruce Bishop for leading our worship service this morning. A Warm Welcome to All Visitors If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Upcoming Meetings/Events Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending July 25, 2021 were $ 1660. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149. Altar Guild Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services. Prayer Concerns Please keep the family of Carolyn Gauthier in your prayers. Please keep Bernie Stolp in your prayers. Please continue to keep Bridget Janney and Anthony Cuteri in your prayers. We keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Rick and Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Kathy and Rick Doyle anniversary on August 13 Annual Church Picnic The Church Picnic will take place Today, August 1, at the home of the Thomsons following our church service. This is a pot-luck event, so get out your lucky pot and cook your favorite 'afternoon by the lake' dish. Directions to the Thomson’s House Take route 103 and 100 North out of Ludlow. At the stop light about 2 miles north of town turn right towards Killington. Route 103 goes straight on to Rutland. Take Route 100 N for ¾ of a mile. Turn right onto East Lake Rd. Take East Lake Rd. for an additional ¾ mile and turn left onto Thomson Dr. The power lines follow the road down toward the lake. There is also a sign that says Mary Lou’s Mistake at the top of the drive. We are the dark brown house at the end of the road. You may park in front of the garage, in the turn around AND at the house next door to our house. You may also park on the side of the road if necessary. _________________________________________________________________________ August 1, 2021 10:00 A.M. SERVICE OF WORSHIP Tenth Sunday After Pentecost Communion Sunday PRELUDE (All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in preparation for the worship service which follows.) GREETING The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13: 13) And also with you. CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.) We gather today, seeking the peace Christ gives. We gather, despite many a conflict, many a doubt, within our souls. We gather, longing for the breath of God’s spirit to give us courage and renewal. Come, Christ Jesus, be our guest. Bless us through the power of your Spirit and give us the courage to live as your disciples day by day. HYMN 117* O God, Our Help in Ages Past PRAYER OF CONFESSION If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1: 8-9) Let us confess our sins before God and one another. God of compassion have mercy upon us as we confess our sin. In Christ you bring light, yet we still dwell in darkness. Your word offers guidance, but we choose to ignore your counsel. You promise renewal, but we heed not your wisdom. We bow to the gods of this world, choosing to hide from your truth. Speak to us again from beyond the clouds of our sinfulness; dazzle us anew with the light of Christ’s love; restore and forgive us…. SILENCE (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS Hear the good news. God is light, and in God there is no darkness. “If we say we have fellowship with God while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not live according to the truth; but if we walk in the light, as God is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, God’s Son, cleanses us from all sin.” God is faithful and just, and Jesus Christ forgives us our sin. READING OF SCRIPTURE THE OLD TESTAMENT READING Leviticus 14: 10-11 PSALM 119 Hymnal, page 840 Response 3 GLORIA 70* Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. THE GOSPEL LESSON Luke 17: 11-19 SERMON “Only 1 of 10” Hymn 430* O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE PRAYER RESPONSE Hymnal, No. 473 Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness; Make thy way plain before my face. For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only, That makest me dwell in safety. OFFERTORY SENTENCE PRAYER OF DEDICATION HYMN 620* One Bread, One Body THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION INVITATION BLESSING OF THE ELEMENTS THE LORD’S PRAYER BREAKING THE BREAD AND LIFTING THE CUP THE COMMUNION PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING Let us give thanks. Bountiful God, we give you thanks that you have refreshed us at your table by granting us the presence of Christ. Strengthen our faith, increase our love for one another, and send us forth into the world in courage and peace, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. HYMN 369 * Blessed Assurance BENEDICTION BENEDICTION RESPONSE POSTLUDE _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading for the August 1 Service HYMN 117* O God, Our Help in Ages Past O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home! Under the shadow of thy throne, still may we dwell secure; sufficient is thine arm alone, and our defense is sure. Before the hills in order stood, or earth received her frame, from everlasting, thou art God, to endless years the same. A thousand ages, in thy sight, are like an evening gone; short as the watch that ends the night, before the rising sun. Time, like an ever rolling stream, bears all who breathe away; they fly forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day. O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come; be thou our guide while life shall last, and our eternal home. HYMN 430* O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee O Master, let me walk with thee in lowly paths of service free; tell me thy secret; help me bear the strain of toil, the fret of care. Help me the slow of heart to move by some clear, winning word of love; teach me the wayward feet to stay, and guide them in the homeward way. Teach me thy patience; still with thee in closer, dearer company, in work that keeps faith sweet and strong, in trust that triumphs over wrong; In hope that sends a shining ray far down the future's broadening way, in peace that only thou canst give, with thee, O Master, let me live. HYMN 620* One Bread, One Body (Refrain) One bread, one body, One Lord of all, One cup of blessing which we bless. And we, though many, Throughout the earth, We are one body in this one Lord. Gentile or Jew, Servant or free, Woman or man, no more (Refrain) Many the gifts, Many the works, One in the Lord of all. (Refrain) Grain for the fields, Scattered and grown, Gathered to one, for all. (Refrain) HYMN 369 * Blessed Assurance Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, born of his Spirit, washed in his blood. (Refrain) This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long; this is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long. Perfect submission, perfect delight, visions of rapture now burst on my sight; angels descending bring from above echoes of mercy, whispers of love. (Refain) Perfect submission, all is at rest; I in my Savior am happy and blest, watching and waiting, looking above, filled with his goodness, lost in his love. (Refrain) PSALM 119 Hymnal, page 840, Response 3 _________________________________________________________________________
7/22/2021 July 22nd, 2021CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW are shared ELECTRONICALLY Contact unitedchurch@tds.net or call 802-228-4211 for more information. _________________________________________________________________________ If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us. The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am. We follow procedures to minimize the risk of exposure. Please read and follow those procedures for the safety of all. If you are not able to attend in person, a simultaneous Zoom stream is available. Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get Zoom access. _________________________________________________________________________ ANNOUNCEMENTS We wish to thank Hannah Sotak for leading our worship service this morning. A Warm Welcome to All Visitors If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Upcoming Meetings/Events Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending July 18, 2021 were $500. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149. Altar Guild Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services. Prayer Concerns Please keep Bernie Stolp in your prayers. Please continue to keep Bridget Janney and Anthony Cuteri in your prayers. We keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Rick and Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Otto and Dalene Behrens’ anniversary on July 27 Laura Lienhard’s birthday on July 28 Annual Church Picnic The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on Sunday, August 1, following our church service. This is a pot-luck event, so get out your lucky pot and cook your favorite 'afternoon by the lake' dish. _________________________________________________________________________ July 25, 2021 10:00 am Service of Worship NINTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST PRELUDE (All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in preparation for the worship service which follows.) ANNOUNCEMENTS AND GREETING The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13: 13) And also with you. CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.) HYMN 185* When Morning Gilds the Skies Original words, Psalter Hymnal, 1987 When morning gilds the sky, our hearts awaking cry: May Jesus Christ be praised! In all our work and prayer we ask his loving care: May Jesus Christ be praised! To God, the Word on high, the hosts of angels cry: May Jesus Christ be praised! Let mortals too upraise their voices in hymns of praise: May Jesus Christ be praised! Let earth's wide circle round in joyful notes resound: May Jesus Christ be praised! Let air and sea and sky from depth to height reply: May Jesus Christ be praised! Then let us join to sing to Christ, our loving King: May Jesus Christ be praised! Be this the eternal song through all the ages long: May Jesus Christ be praised! OPENING PRAYER* CONFESSION OF SIN: ONE: John Newton, slave ship captain and confessed murderer once penned these words: ALL: “Although my memory's fading, I remember two things very clearly: I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior.” ONE: John Newton, slave ship captain and confessed murderer also penned these words: ALL: Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see. ONE: He wrote these words as he was going blind in body, but growing ever-more-able to see in spirit. We are all caught in this tension. ALL: We each drift between saint and sinner, struggling to be who God has created us to be in Christ Jesus. ONE: And it’s not just the sins we have committed. We struggle with the sins against us, too. ALL: But Christ is our healing! Christ is our restoration! Christ is our rebirth! Christ is our salvation! ONE: So, we leave at the feet of Christ the sins we have committed that He may make all things new, including us. (Silent Prayer of Confession) ALL: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers. ONE: We leave in the hands of Christ the sins that have been committed against us, and trust that God will free us from the chains of vengeance, pain, anger, and betrayal one day. (Silent Prayer of Confession) ALL: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers. DECLARATION OF THE GOOD NEWS: ONE: Now, hear the Good News! While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. This is proof of God’s love for us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! ALL: In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! AMEN! ALLELUIA! READING OF SCRIPTURE PSALM 65: 1-13 Hymnal, pages 789 - 90 GLORIA 70 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. NEW TESTAMENT READING Romans 1: 18-23 SERMON "God’s Testimony of Creation" HYMN 92* For the Beauty of the Earth REFRAIN: Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sa-cri-fice of praise. (Folliett Sandford Pierpoint originally wrote this hymn for use during the Communion of the High Anglican Church. The original refrain "Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sacrifice of praise" was meant to mirror the portrayal of Christ's ultimate sacrifice -- just as the host would be lifted during the communion as a token of God's gift to us, a "sacrifice of praise" would be lifted in return. Later editions of the text emphasize the thanksgiving aspect of the verses. --Greg Scheer, 1995, Hymnary.com) JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”) PRAYER RESPONSE Hymnal, No. 473 Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness; Make thy way plain before my face. For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only, That makest me dwell in safety OFFERTORY SENTENCE OFFERTORY DOXOLOGY At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, you heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION* HYMN 189* Fairest Lord Jesus BENEDICTION AND BLESSING* BENEDICTION RESPONSE DISMISSAL Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God POSTLUDE * All who are able may stand. _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading for the July 25 Service HYMN 185* When Morning Gilds the Skies Original words, Psalter Hymnal, 1987 When morning gilds the sky, our hearts awaking cry: May Jesus Christ be praised! In all our work and prayer we ask his loving care: May Jesus Christ be praised! To God, the Word on high, the hosts of angels cry: May Jesus Christ be praised! Let mortals too upraise their voices in hymns of praise: May Jesus Christ be praised! Let earth's wide circle round in joyful notes resound: May Jesus Christ be praised! Let air and sea and sky from depth to height reply: May Jesus Christ be praised! Then let us join to sing to Christ, our loving King: May Jesus Christ be praised! Be this the eternal song through all the ages long: May Jesus Christ be praised! HYMN 92* For the Beauty of the Earth REFRAIN: Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sa-cri-fice of praise. (Folliett Sandford Pierpoint originally wrote this hymn for use during the Communion of the High Anglican Church. The original refrain "Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sacrifice of praise" was meant to mirror the portrayal of Christ's ultimate sacrifice -- just as the host would be lifted during the communion as a token of God's gift to us, a "sacrifice of praise" would be lifted in return. Later editions of the text emphasize the thanksgiving aspect of the verses. --Greg Scheer, 1995, Hymnary.com) For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies, for the love which from our birth over and around us lies; Refrain: Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sa-cri-fice of praise. For the beauty of each hour of the day and of the night, hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon, and stars of light; (Refrain) For the joy of ear and eye, for the heart and mind's delight, for the mystic harmony linking sense to sound and sight; (Refrain) For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child, friends on earth and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild; (Refrain) For thy church, that evermore lifteth holy hands above, offering up on every shore her pure sacrifice of love; (Refrain) For thyself, best Gift Divine, to the world so freely given, for that great, great love of thine, peace on earth, and joy in heaven: (Refrain) HYMN 189* Fairest Lord Jesus Fairest Lord Jesus, ruler of all nature, O thou of God and man the Son, thee will I cherish, thee will I honor, thou, my soul's glory, joy, and crown. Fair are the meadows, fairer still the woodlands, robed in the blooming garb of spring: Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer, who makes the woeful heart to sing. Fair is the sunshine, fairer still the moonlight, and all the twinkling starry host: Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer than all the angels heaven can boast. Beautiful Savior! Lord of all the nations! Son of God and Son of Man! Glory and honor, praise, adoration, now and forevermore be thine. PSALM 65 _________________________________________________________________________
CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW are shared ELECTRONICALLY Contact unitedchurch@tds.net or call 802-228-4211 for more information. _________________________________________________________________________ If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us. The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am. We follow procedures to minimize the risk of exposure. Please read and follow those procedures for the safety of all. If you are not able to attend in person, a simultaneous Zoom stream is available. Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get Zoom access. _________________________________________________________________________ ANNOUNCEMENTS We wish to thank Jeremy Schrauf for leading our worship service this morning. A Warm Welcome to All Visitors If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Upcoming Meetings/Events Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending July 11, 2021 were $635. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149. Altar Guild Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services. Prayer Concerns Please continue to keep Bridget Janney in your prayers, and add Tony Cuteri to your prayers. We ask that you keep Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila continues recovery from complications of her back surgery. Cards may be sent to them at 173 Hesperus Ave., Magnolia, MA 01930. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Doyle, Rick Doyle, Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Jim and Sandy Peplau celebrate an anniversary on July 18 Annual Church Picnic The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on Sunday, August 1, following our church service. As always, this is a pot-luck event, so get out your lucky pot and cook your favorite 'afternoon by the lake' dish. A NOTE ABOUT COFFEE HOUR At a recent Church Board Meeting it was decided that only disposable plates, cups and utensils will be used for food service. It was noticed that clean-up has too often been left to be done by a deacon or trustee assisting at the service. This is not fair to those individuals, who have already taken on extra obligations to make the church services happen. To reduce the work necessary at clean-up, only disposable items will be used. _________________________________________________________________________ July 18, 2021 10:00 am Service of Worship EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST PRELUDE (All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in preparation for the worship service which follows.) ANNOUNCEMENTS AND GREETING The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13: 13) And also with you. CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.) LEADER Who is it we seek as we come to this place? PEOPLE We seek our God and for God’s guidance in our lives. LEADER And to what purpose do we seek God’s guidance? PEOPLE We seek to discern God’s intent for us in all that we do. LEADER Let us sing praise to our God. HYMN 430* O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee OPENING PRAYER* CONFESSION OF SIN If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1: 8-9) Let us confess our sins before God and one another. Faithful God, we rejoice that you have sent your promised Christ. And yet, O God, we confess that we are still not ready for Christ’s coming; we are reluctant to live as if the whole earth were your domain. We know the story – the shepherds, the angels, and the magi – but we don’t fully understand what it means. Awaken us to your Spirit, let Christ’s birth make a difference in our lives and in the lives of our brothers and sisters everywhere and grant us your peace . . .. SILENCE (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS Remember that we are chosen by Christ, who reconciles us to God. Christ presents us holy and blameless before God. May we continue in the faith, remain stable and steadfast and not shift from the hope of the gospel which we have heard. For in Christ we are forgiven. Amen READING OF SCRIPTURE PSALM 89: 1-4, 19-37 Hymnal, pages 807 and 808 Response 2 GLORIA 70 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. THE OLD TESTAMENT LESSON 2 Samuel 7: 1-14a SERMON “Discerning God’s Will” HYMN 375* There is a Balm in Gilead JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”) PRAYER RESPONSE Hymnal, No. 473 Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness; Make thy way plain before my face. For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only, That makest me dwell in safety OFFERTORY SENTENCE OFFERTORY DOXOLOGY At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, you heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION* HYMN 474* Precious Lord, Take My Hand BENEDICTION AND BLESSING* BENEDICTION RESPONSE DISMISSAL Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God POSTLUDE * All who are able may stand. _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading for the July 18 Service HYMN 430* Master, Let Me Walk with Thee O Master, let me walk with thee in lowly paths of service free; tell me thy secret; help me bear the strain of toil, the fret of care. Help me the slow of heart to move by some clear, winning word of love; teach me the wayward feet to stay, and guide them in the homeward way. Teach me thy patience; still with thee in closer, dearer company, in work that keeps faith sweet and strong, in trust that triumphs over wrong; In hope that sends a shining ray far down the future's broadening way, in peace that only thou canst give, with thee, O Master, let me live. HYMN 375* There is a Balm in Gilead Refrain: There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole; there is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul. Some times I feel discouraged, and think my work’s in vain. But then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again. (Refrain) Don't ever feel discouraged, for Jesus is your friend, and if you look for knowledge he'll ne'er refuse to lend. (Refrain) If you can’t preach like Peter, if you can’t pray like Paul, just tell the love of Jesus, and say he died for all. (Refrain) HYMN 474* Precious Lord, Take My Hand Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, let me stand I'm tired, I’m weak, I’m lone, Through the storm, through the night Lead me on to the light Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home When my way grows drear precious Lord linger near When my light is almost gone Hear my cry, hear my call Hold my hand lest I fall Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home When the darkness appears and the night draws near And the day is past and gone At the river I stand Guide my feet, hold my hand Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home PSALM 89 _________________________________________________________________________
CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW are shared ELECTRONICALLY Contact unitedchurch@tds.net or call 802-228-4211 for more information. _________________________________________________________________________ If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us. The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am. We follow procedures to minimize the risk of exposure. Please read and follow those procedures for the safety of all. If you are not able to attend in person, a simultaneous Zoom stream is available. Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get Zoom access. _________________________________________________________________________ ANNOUNCEMENTS We wish to thank Jack Mahoney for leading our worship service this morning. A Warm Welcome to All Visitors If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Upcoming Meetings/Events Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending June 27, 2021 were $385. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149. Altar Guild Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services. Prayer Concerns Please keep Anne Matalonis in your prayers for a speedy recovery from the surgery for her broken ankle. Cards may be sent to her c/o The Pines, 99 Allen Street, Rutland, VT 05701. We ask that you keep Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila continues recovery from complications of her back surgery. Cards may be sent to them at 173 Hesperus Ave., Magnolia, MA 01930. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Doyle, Rick Doyle, Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Jim and Sandy Peplau celebrate an anniversary on July 18 Annual Church Picnic The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on Sunday, August 1, following our church service. A NOTE ABOUT COFFEE HOUR At a recent Church Board Meeting it was decided that only disposable plates, cups and utensils will be used for food service. It was noticed that clean-up has too often been left to be done by a deacon or trustee assisting at the service. This is not fair to those individuals, who have already taken on extra obligations to make the church services happen. To reduce the work necessary at clean-up, only disposable items will be used. Seeking Caregiver Help I am seeking an individual or several individuals who are willing to spend a couple hours or an afternoon caring for Ginny as it is not safe to leave her alone. This would provide an important break for me as primary caregiver. Since the beginning of the year we have engaged an RN for an afternoon once a week with very beneficial outcomes. But she is leaving soon. I could use help roughly once or twice a week. I am casting a net for possibilities. Remuneration is available. If you are interested or have a neighbor or contact you think might be a possibility, including a responsible high school student, please let me know. You can reach me at 802-228-6282. Bob Kottkamp ECCO News Jack Mahoney, the intern sponsored by the ECCO group, is leading a faith formation book discussion using Henri Nouwen’s book “Spiritual Direction”. It is planned for Wednesdays at 7 pm on zoom or in person or a combination. It will run each week through July and August. _________________________________________________________________________ July 11, 2021 10:00 am Service of Worship SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST PRELUDE (All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in preparation for the worship service which follows.) ANNOUNCEMENTS AND GREETING The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13: 13) And also with you. CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.) Leader: O Lord, mercifully receive the prayers of your people All: We call upon you God so that we may understand what things we ought to do Leader: Lord, bless us with the grace and power to faithfully accomplish them All: We call upon God to guide our thoughts and actions through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, Amen HYMN 496* Sweet Hour of Prayer CONFESSION OF SIN If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1: 8-9) Let us confess our sins before God and one another. God who knows the innermost workings of hearts and minds, we seek your compassion and mercy as we confess our sins. Time and time again we turn away from your light and truth. We succumb to fear and selfishness even when we know you are calling us to live brave and generous lives. Help us find the discipline to follow Christ at all times and help us, individually and as a church, to turn our hearts back to you when we lose our way. Teach us to clean our hearts, wash our hands, and steady our feet so that we might know and share in your blessings. SILENCE (observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS READING OF SCRIPTURE PSALM 85 Hymnal, pages 806 GLORIA 70 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. THE SCRIPTURE READING Amos 7:7 - 15 SERMON HYMN 404* Every Time I Feel the Spirit JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. PRAYER RESPONSE Hymnal, No. 473 Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness; Make thy way plain before my face. For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only, That makest me dwell in safety OFFERTORY SENTENCE Friends, we are called to serve God with all we have. Let us gather our gifts together and offer them to God in gratitude, faithful commitment, and praise. OFFERTORY DOXOLOGY At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, you heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION* HYMN 707* Hymn of Promise BENEDICTION AND BLESSING* BENEDICTION RESPONSE DISMISSAL Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God POSTLUDE * All who are able may stand. _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the July 11 Service HYMN 496* Sweet Hour of Prayer Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! that calls me from a world of care, and bids me at my Father's throne make all my wants and wishes known. In seasons of distress and grief, my soul has often found relief, and oft escaped the tempter's snare by thy return, sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! the joys I feel, the bliss I share of those whose anxious spirits burn with strong desires for thy return! With such I hasten to the place where God my Savior shows his face, and gladly take my station there, and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer! thy wings shall my petition bear to him whose truth and faithfulness engage the waiting soul to bless. And since he bids me seek his face, believe his word, and trust his grace, I'll cast on him my every care, and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer! HYMN 404* Every Time I Feel the Spirit Refrain: Every time I feel the spirit moving in my heart, I will pray. Yes, every time I feel the spirit moving in my heart, I will pray. Upon the mountain, my Lord spoke, out his mouth came fire and smoke. All around me looks so shine, ask my Lord if all was mine. (Refrain) Jordan river runs right cold, chills the body, not the soul. Ain't but one train on this track, runs to heaven and right back. (Refrain) HYMN 707* Hymn of Promise In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree; in cocoons, a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free! In the cold and snow of winter there's a spring that waits to be, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. There's a song in every silence, seeking word and melody; there's a dawn in every darkness bringing hope to you and me. From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity; in our doubt there is believing; in our life, eternity. In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. PSALM 85 CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW are shared ELECTRONICALLY Contact unitedchurch@tds.net or call 802-228-4211 for more information. _________________________________________________________________________ If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us. The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am. We follow procedures to minimize the risk of exposure. Please read and follow those procedures for the safety of all. If you are not able to attend in person, a simultaneous Zoom stream is available. Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get Zoom access. _________________________________________________________________________ ANNOUNCEMENTS We wish to thank Rev. Bruce Bishop for leading our worship service this morning. A Warm Welcome to All Visitors If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net. Upcoming Meetings/Events Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending June 27, 2021 were $245. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149. Altar Guild Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services. Prayer Concerns Please keep Anne Matalonis in your prayers for a speedy recovery from the surgery for her broken ankle. Cards may be sent to her c/o The Pines, 99 Allen Street, Rutland, VT 05701. We ask that you keep Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila continues recovery from complications of her back surgery. Cards may be sent to them at 173 Hesperus Ave., Magnolia, MA 01930. Also keep Bridget Janney in your prayers. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Doyle, Rick Doyle, Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Janet and Ralph Pace celebrate an anniversary on July 8 Jim and Sandy Peplau celebrate an anniversary on July 18 Annual Church Picnic The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on Sunday, August 1, following our church service. A NOTE ABOUT COFFEE HOUR At a recent Church Board Meeting it was decided that only disposable plates, cups and utensils will be used for food service. It was noticed that clean-up has too often been left to be done by a deacon or trustee assisting at the service. This is not fair to those individuals, who have already taken on extra obligations to make the church services happen. To reduce the work necessary at clean-up, only disposable items will be used. Seeking Caregiver Help I am seeking an individual or several individuals who are willing to spend a couple hours or an afternoon caring for Ginny as it is not safe to leave her alone. This would provide an important break for me as primary caregiver. Since the beginning of the year we have engaged an RN for an afternoon once a week with very beneficial outcomes. But she is leaving soon. I could use help roughly once or twice a week. I am casting a net for possibilities. Remuneration is available. If you are interested or have a neighbor or contact you think might be a possibility, including a responsible high school student, please let me know. You can reach me at 802-228-6282. Bob Kottkamp ECCO News Jack Mahoney, the intern sponsored by the ECCO group, will be leading our worship service next Sunday. He has also proposed leading a faith formation book discussion using Henri Nouwen’s book “Spiritual Direction”. It is planned for Wednesdays at 7 pm on zoom or in person or a combination...remember that this is a work in progress! It will likely begin Thursday the 8th and would run each week through July and August. _________________________________________________________________________ July 4, 2021 10:00 A.M. SERVICE OF WORSHIP Sixth Sunday After Pentecost Independence Day Communion Sunday PRELUDE (All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in preparation for the worship service which follows.) GREETING The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13: 13) And also with you. CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.) We gather today, seeking the peace Christ gives. We gather, despite many a conflict, many a doubt, within our souls. We gather, longing for the breath of God’s spirit to give us courage and renewal. Come, Christ Jesus, be our guest. Bless us through the power of your Spirit and give us the courage to live as your disciples day by day. HYMN 92* For the Beauty of the Earth PRAYER OF CONFESSION If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1: 8-9) Let us confess our sins before God and one another. God of compassion have mercy upon us as we confess our sin. In Christ you bring light, yet we still dwell in darkness. Your word offers guidance, but we choose to ignore your counsel. You promise renewal, but we heed not your wisdom. We bow to the gods of this world, choosing to hide from your truth. Speak to us again from beyond the clouds of our sinfulness; dazzle us anew with the light of Christ’s love; restore and forgive us…. SILENCE (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS Hear the good news. God is light, and in God there is no darkness. “If we say we have fellowship with God while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not live according to the truth; but if we walk in the light, as God is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, God’s Son, cleanses us from all sin.” God is faithful and just, and Jesus Christ forgives us our sin. READING OF SCRIPTURE THE OLD TESTAMENT READING Joshua 1: 6-9 PSALM 8 Hymnal, page 743 Response 2 GLORIA 70* Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen. THE GOSPEL LESSON Matthew 5: 13-16 SERMON “Saltiness” Hymn 413* A Charge to Keep I Have JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE PRAYER RESPONSE Hymnal, No. 473 Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness; Make thy way plain before my face. For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only, That makest me dwell in safety. OFFERTORY SENTENCE PRAYER OF DEDICATION HYMN 624* Bread of the World THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION INVITATION BLESSING OF THE ELEMENTS THE LORD’S PRAYER BREAKING THE BREAD AND LIFTING THE CUP THE COMMUNION PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING Let us give thanks. Bountiful God, we give you thanks that you have refreshed us at your table by granting us the presence of Christ. Strengthen our faith, increase our love for one another, and send us forth into the world in courage and peace, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. HYMN 500 * Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart BENEDICTION BENEDICTION RESPONSE POSTLUDE _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading for the July 4 Service HYMN 92 For the Beauty of the Earth For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies, for the love which from our birth over and around us lies; (Refrain) Lord of all, to thee we raisethis our hymn of grateful praise. For the beauty of each hour of the day and of the night, hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon, and stars of light; (Refrain) For the joy of ear and eye, for the heart and mind's delight, for the mystic harmony linking sense to sound and sight; (Refrain) For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child, friends on earth and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild; (Refrain) For thy church, that evermore lifteth holy hands above, offering up on every shore her pure sacrifice of love; (Refrain) For thyself, best Gift Divine, to the world so freely given, for that great, great love of thine, peace on earth, and joy in heaven: (Refrain) HYMN 413 A Charge to Keep I Have A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify, a never-dying soul to save, and fit it for the sky. To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill; O may it all my powers engage to do my Master's will! Arm me with jealous care, as in thy sight to live, and oh, thy servant, Lord, prepare a strict account to give! Help me to watch and pray, and on thyself rely, assured, if I my trust betray, I shall forever die. HYMN 624 Bread of the World Bread of the world in mercy broken, wine of the soul in mercy shed, by whom the words of life were spoken, and in whose death our sins are dead: Look on the heart by sorrow broken, look on the tears by sinners shed; and be thy feast to us the token that by thy grace our souls are fed. HYMN 500 Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart Spirit of God, descend upon my heart; wean it from earth; through all its pulses move; stoop to my weakness, mighty as thou art, and make me love thee as I ought to love. I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies, no sudden rending of the veil of clay, no angel visitant, no opening skies; but take the dimness of my soul away. Hast thou not bid me love thee, God and King? All, all thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind. I see thy cross; there teach my heart to cling. O let me seek thee, and O let me find! Teach me to feel that thou art always nigh; teach me the struggles of the soul to bear. To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh, teach me the patience of unanswered prayer. Teach me to love thee as thine angels love, one holy passion filling all my frame; the kindling of the heaven-descended Dove, my heart an altar, and thy love the flame. PSALM 8 Hymnal, page 743, Response 2 _________________________________________________________________________
|