The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am.   

If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us.  Procedures designed to minimize the risk of exposure are described later in this newsletter.  Please read and follow these procedures for your own, and your fellow congregants', safety.

If you are not able to attend in person, the service will be streamed simultaneously using our church Zoom access to allow you to participate.   Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get information about Zoom access.  ​

A Warm Welcome to All Visitors.
 
        If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you,
        please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895.
        His email is harpsterd@vermontel.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 pastor, Rev. Harpster.
 
Upcoming Meetings/Events  
 
        Executive Board Meeting, Wednesday, October 28, 7:00 pm.

        Annual Meeting, Sunday,  November 8, following the service.

 
Weekly Offerings
 
        Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending September 20 were $865.               The costs for each week are $1,118 (derived by dividing the annual budget by
        52 weeks).
 
Altar Guild
 
        Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of September. 
 
Prayer Concerns
 
        Please keep Sheila Kafer, who underwent spinal surgery this past Thursday,
        and begins her recovery and rehabilitation, in your prayers.

        Please keep Anne Matulonis in your prayers as she continues her recovery
        from a broken hip.
 
        We continue to keep the following in our prayers:
        James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy,
        Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp,
        ​Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.
 
        If you wish to add someone to the Prayer List, please send an email to
        unitedchurch@tds.net.

Celebrations
 ​
        If you wish to add someone to the Celebrations List, please send an email to
        unitedchurch@tds.net.

And Finally –
 
        It is with sadness for the congregation of the United Church of Ludlow and
        excitement for Don that this is his last Sunday with us after 18 years.  He began
        as our interim pastor and then was called to be the pastor for the United Church
        of Ludlow. Don will officially be retired after the service today.  We know not what
        the future holds for us, but for Don, he has a plan. He has a closing on his house
        in Rockingham on the 14th of October and a closing on his house in Raleigh, NC
        on the 16th.  He has the movers all lined up and the cleaning crew scheduled. 
        We are all excited for him that he will be enjoying the life of leisure closer to family
        and in his new home.  Once he gets himself unpacked and all settled in, he plans
        to spend some time doing research and writing.  He related that he is excited that
        they only get an average of one snow storm per year!  Don, we all wish you the
        very best and many years of happiness in your new home. 
 
        For our church, we will be continuing with in person and zoom services with the
        ​support of pulpit supply until we are able to find a replacement.

​The following procedures were developed to minimize the risk of attending services at the United Church of Ludlow.

Everyone will enter and exit the church through the rear door.  The new entrance is now complete, along with the new walkway from Elm St.  The LULA is operational to facilitate access by those with difficulty managing stairs. 

Masks are required and should be worn when entering the church and at all times when moving about inside. We ask anyone who might need water or other refreshment to please bring your own, as the kitchen will not be available.  
 
Upon entering you will be greeted by a church member, offered a mask if you do not have one and instructed to sanitize your hands with the sanitizer located inside the doorway.  You will be asked some questions about your health and your name and address will be recorded should contract tracing be required.
 
You will then proceed immediately to your pew in the sanctuary.  There will be no congregating inside the church building.  Other than the sanctuary and bathrooms, all other areas of the church are off limits except to those participating in the service. 
 
Upon entering the sanctuary, please look for the cushions placed in the pews.  These cushions indicate where seating may take place in order to maintain proper social distancing.  They will be placed in pairs, but if any core family group is attending, please feel free to add space in your area, keeping in mind the location of those around you. 
 
While we encourage keeping masks on at all times, masks MAY be removed when you are seated in your pew.  Keep in mind that masks should be worn any time you are talking with your neighbor, speaking aloud during the service, and moving throughout the building.  If you wish to sing during the hymns, it must be done with the mask in place, and in a soft speaking voice.  Announcements and prayers will be offered without microphones, so please stand and speak clearly wearing your mask. 

When communion is celebrated, parishioners may bring their own "bread and wine". 

Offerings will not be collected during the service.  We ask that you continue your weekly offering by writing a check to The United Church and mailing it to Anne Oakes, 145 Merrill Rd., Ludlow, VT 05149.  

When services are over, everyone should leave the church building using the rear door.  You should only stop if you need to use the rest rooms, which will be available at all times. 
 
If you wish to mix socially after services, please do so away from the exit so as not to make others leaving feel uncomfortable.  Keep in mind, this is the first phase of reopening our church, and we are sure practices will need to be amended as time and circumstances dictate.  We encourage anyone with thoughts, fears or suggestions to contact either our President, George Thomson, Rev. Harpster, Deacon Laura Lienhard or Trustee Dean Alexander.  We look forward to worshiping together with all of you, whether in person or through the internet and pray that we soon will be able to return to a more normal worship experience together in God's house.

September 27, 2020                                                                               10:00 A. M.
 
                                                      Service of Worship
 
                                    SEVENEENTH 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.)           
 
        We gather today, seeking the peace that 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  731*                       Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken
 
OPENING PRAYER*

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.
 
        Eternal God, from the beginning of time you have called your children
        into communion with you.  Yet we confess that like all the rest, we have
        turned to our own way and refused your love and grace.  Restore us to the
        joy of knowing you, and of recognizing your reign among us, through
        Jesus Christ, the bringer of the good news. . . .
 
SILENCE        (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)
 
ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS
 
        God who is just and gracious, has sent Jesus Christ into the world to redeem
        us.  As we turn to God with contrite hearts, Christ intercedes on our behalf. 
        So, with assurance we can say to you, in Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
 
READING OF SCRIPTURE
 
PSALM 103                            Hymnal, pages 824-825
 
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                               Mark 7:  31-37
 
SERMON                             “Be Prepared”
 
HYMN 596*                                       Blessed Jesus, at Thy Word
 
JOYS AND CONCERNSF 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
 
        “And whatsoever you do in word and deed, do all in the name of the Lord
        Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”  (Col. 3: 17)

OFFERTORY

            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 399*                                       Take My Life, and Let It BeICTION

​BENEDICTION RESPONSE

DISMISSAL
 
        Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.

        Thanks be to God.
 
POSTLUDE
 
*  All who are able may stand.
 

​
“Too often we underestimate the power of
a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, 
an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, 
all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” 
- Leo Buscaglia

​Lyrics to the Hymns
for the
September 27 Service
 
 
731.   Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken
 
Glorious things of thee are spoken, Zion, city of our God;
God, whose word cannot be broken, formed thee for his own abode.
On the Rock of Ages founded, what can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation's walls surrounded, thou mayst smile at all thy foes.
 
See, the streams of living waters, springing from eternal love,
well supply thy sons and daughters, and all fear of want remove.
Who can faint while such a river ever will their thirst assuage?
Grace which like the Lord, the giver, never fails from age to age.
 
Round each habitation hovering, see the cloud and fire appear
for a glory and a covering, showing that the Lord is near!
Thus deriving from our banner light by night and shade by day,
safe we feed upon the manna which God gives us when we pray.
 
Blest inhabitants of Zion, washed in our Redeemer's blood;
Jesus, whom our souls rely on, makes us monarchs, priests to God.
Us, by his great love, he raises, rulers over self to reign,
and as priests his solemn praises we for thankful offering bring.
 

 
596.    Blessed Jesus, at Thy Word
 
Blessed Jesus, at thy word we are gathered all to hear thee;
let our hearts and souls be stirred now to seek and love and fear thee,
by thy teachings sweet and holy, drawn from earth to love thee solely.
 
All our knowledge, sense, and sight lie in deepest darkness shrouded,
till thy spirit breaks our night with the beams of truth unclouded.
Thou alone to God canst win us; thou must work all good within us.
 
Glorious Lord, thyself impart! Light of light, from God proceeding,
open thou our ears and heart; help us by thy spirit's pleading;
hear the cry thy people raises; hear, and bless our prayers and praises.
 
 
399.   Take My Life, and Let It Be
 
Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to thee.
Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise.
Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of thy love.
Take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for thee.
 
Take my voice, and let me sing always, only, for my King.
Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages from thee.
Take my silver and my gold;  not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect, and use every power as thou shalt choose.
 
Take my will, and make it thine; it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is thine own; it shall be thy royal throne.
Take my love, my Lord, I pour at thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for thee.
 

The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am.   

If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us.  Procedures designed to minimize the risk of exposure are described later in this newsletter.  Please read and follow these procedures for your own, and your fellow congregants', safety.

If you are not able to attend in person, the service will be streamed simultaneously using our church Zoom access to allow you to participate.   Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get information about Zoom access.  ​

A Warm Welcome to All Visitors.
 
        If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you,
        please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895.
        His email is harpsterd@vermontel.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 pastor, Rev. Harpster.
 
Upcoming Meetings/Events  
 
        Executive Board Meeting, Wednesday, Sept. 23, 7:00 pm.
 
Weekly Offerings
 
        Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending September 13, 2020, were
        1,420.  The costs for each week are $1,118 (derived by dividing the annual budget
        by 52 weeks).
 
Altar Guild
 
        Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of September. 
 
Prayer Concerns
 
        Please keep Anne Matulonis in your prayers as she continues her recovery
        from a broken hip.
 
We continue to keep the following in our prayers:
        Dean Alexander, James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy,
        Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp,
        ​Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.
 
        If you wish to add someone to the Prayer List, please send an email to
        unitedchurch@tds.net.

Celebrations
 ​
        If you wish to add someone to the Celebrations List, please send an email to
        unitedchurch@tds.net.
       

​The following procedures were developed to minimize the risk of attending services at the United Church of Ludlow.

Everyone will enter and exit the church through the rear door.  The new entrance is now complete, along with the new walkway from Elm St.  The LULA is operational to facilitate access by those with difficulty managing stairs. 

Masks are required and should be worn when entering the church and at all times when moving about inside. We ask anyone who might need water or other refreshment to please bring your own, as the kitchen will not be available.  
 
Upon entering you will be greeted by a church member, offered a mask if you do not have one and instructed to sanitize your hands with the sanitizer located inside the doorway.  You will be asked some questions about your health and your name and address will be recorded should contract tracing be required.
 
You will then proceed immediately to your pew in the sanctuary.  There will be no congregating inside the church building.  Other than the sanctuary and bathrooms, all other areas of the church are off limits except to those participating in the service. 
 
Upon entering the sanctuary, please look for the cushions placed in the pews.  These cushions indicate where seating may take place in order to maintain proper social distancing.  They will be placed in pairs, but if any core family group is attending, please feel free to add space in your area, keeping in mind the location of those around you. 
 
While we encourage keeping masks on at all times, masks MAY be removed when you are seated in your pew.  Keep in mind that masks should be worn any time you are talking with your neighbor, speaking aloud during the service, and moving throughout the building.  If you wish to sing during the hymns, it must be done with the mask in place, and in a soft speaking voice.  Announcements and prayers will be offered without microphones, so please stand and speak clearly wearing your mask. 

When communion is celebrated, parishioners may bring their own "bread and wine". 

Offerings will not be collected during the service.  We ask that you continue your weekly offering by writing a check to The United Church and mailing it to Anne Oakes, 145 Merrill Rd., Ludlow, VT 05149.  

When services are over, everyone should leave the church building using the rear door.  You should only stop if you need to use the rest rooms, which will be available at all times. 
 
If you wish to mix socially after services, please do so away from the exit so as not to make others leaving feel uncomfortable.  Keep in mind, this is the first phase of reopening our church, and we are sure practices will need to be amended as time and circumstances dictate.  We encourage anyone with thoughts, fears or suggestions to contact either our President, George Thomson, Rev. Harpster, Deacon Laura Lienhard or Trustee Dean Alexander.  We look forward to worshiping together with all of you, whether in person or through the internet and pray that we soon will be able to return to a more normal worship experience together in God's house.

​We will continue to offer access to our church service using Zoom.  If you are not already in the “Zoom Community” it is not very hard.  We would love to have you join us for Sunday worship.  If you have used Zoom before and have it installed on your computer you are ready to go.

If you have never used Zoom, please contact us before Sunday so we can help you navigate the program.  For help send an email to: 

                    Laura Lienhard  (Laura_Lienhard@hotmail.com)
                    or 
                    Dean Alexander (DiggerDa@aol.com)
 
PLEASE NOTE: You should only have one live microphone at any one location.  Please DO NOT use your phone AND the microphone on your computer at the same time.  Turn one off.  When both are on, rather unpleasant feedback noise can be produced.

​_________________________________________________________________________

September 20, 2020                                                                                               10:00 A. M.
 
                                                 Service of Worship
 
                           SIXTEENTH 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* (inspired by Matthew 20:1-16)
        (Please Stand.)           
 
        Our eyes are heavy. Our hope is soaring. We wait in the marketplace.
        Our God is gracious.  
        Our feet are tired. Our expectations rise. We are hired first.
        Our God is merciful.  
        Our backs are sore. Our spirits are low. We are paid last.
        Our God is slow to anger.
        Our tempers flare. Our anger rages. We take what belongs to us.
        ​Our God abounds in steadfast love.
 
        Let us worship God!
 
 
HYMN  494*                                                              Kum Ba Yah
 
OPENING PRAYER* (inspired by Matthew 20:1-16)
 
        Call all the laborers, O God, call your laborers who woke early,
        Call your laborers who came late, call your laborers who feel wronged,
        Call your laborers who feel overlooked.
        Call your laborers who have no employment, 
        Call your laborers who can't feed their children with this wage,
        Call your laborers who know they are working in your fields,
        Call your laborers who use their wage to increase your love,
        Call all your laborers, O God, tell us to roll up our sleeves
        For we know that we have work to do.
        Let us find you in the work we share here and now, in Christ's presence we pray.                                   Amen.
 
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 forgiveness grant us your favor as we make our confession. 
        You call us to excellence:  we fall short of your confidence in us.  You
        grant to us grace:  we abuse your gifts.  You expect our decisions to
        match your desires, our love to be genuine in obeying your will: yet we
        trust our appetites rather than relying on your goodness.  We look to
        our comfort rather than our neighbor’s need.  In Christ, have mercy on
        us and forgive our sin.
 
SILENCE   (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)
 
ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS
 
        Paul assures us of God’s reconciling graciousness when he writes, “You know
        the grace of our Savior Jesus Christ, that though he was rich yet for your sake
        he became poor, so that by the poverty you might become rich.”  In Christ we
        may dwell in the richness of God’s favor, and rest assured in the fullness of
        God’s redeeming forgiveness.
 
READING OF SCRIPTURE
 
PSALM 145:8-21                                Hymnal, pages 857-858
 
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.
 
EPISTLE LESSON                                        Philippians 1:21-30
 
THE GOSPEL LESSON                                Matthew 20:  1-16
 
SERMON                               "How do we keep the faith?"
 
HYMN 534*                                                               Be Still, My Soul
 
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
 
        When our eyes are heavy, we dream of another world.
        When our spirits are low, we turn to each other.
        When our anger flares, we need each other's gifts most.
        We give our gifts of tithes and offerings to create your realm of heaven.
 
OFFERTORY
   
        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 670*                                                   Go Forth for God
 
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 of the Hymns
for the
September 20 Service
 
 
 
494.  Kum Ba Yah
 
Kum ba yah, my Lord, kum ba yah.
Kum ba yah, my Lord, kum ba yah.
Kum ba yah, my Lord, kum ba yah.
Oh, Lord, kum ba yah!
 
Someone's praying, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone's praying, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone's praying, Lord, kum ba yah.
Oh,, Lord, kum ba yah!
 
Someone's crying, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone's crying, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone's crying, Lord, kum ba yah.
Oh, Lord, kum ba yah!
 
Someone needs you, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone needs you, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone needs you, Lord, kum ba yah.
Oh, Lord, kum ba yah!
 
Someone's singing, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone's singing, Lord, kum ba yah.
Someone's singing, Lord, kum ba yah.
Oh, Lord, kum ba yah!
 
Let us praise the Lord, kum ba yah.
Let us praise the Lord, kum ba yah.
Let us praise the Lord, kum ba yah.
Oh, Lord, kum ba yah!
 
 
534.  Be Still, My Soul
 
Be still, my soul: the Lord is on your side.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
leave to your God to order and provide;
in every change God faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: your best, your heavenly friend
through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
 
Be still, my soul: your God will undertake
to guide the future, as in ages past.
Your hope, your confidence let nothing shake;
all now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
the Christ who ruled them while he dwelt below.
 
Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on
when we shall be forever with the Lord,
when disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past,
all safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
 
 
670.  Go Forth for God
 
Go forth for God, go to the world in peace;
be of good courage, armed with heavenly grace,
in God's good Spirit daily to increase,
till in the kingdom we see face to face.
Go forth for God, go to the world in peace.
 
Go forth for God, go to the world in love;
strengthen the faint, give courage to the weak;
help the afflicted; richly from above
God's love supplies the grace and power we seek.
Go forth for God, go to the world in love.
 
Go forth for God, go to the world in strength;
hold fast the good, be urgent for the right;
render to no one evil; Christ at length
shall overcome all darkness with his light.
Go forth for God, go to the world in strength.
 
Go forth for God, go to the world in joy,
to serve God's people every day and hour,
and serving Christ, our every gift employ,
rejoicing in the Holy Spirit's power.
Go forth for God, go to the world in joy.


 

A Warm Welcome to All Visitors.
 
If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895.  His email is harpsterd@vermontel.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 pastor, Rev. Harpster.
 
Upcoming Meetings/Events  
 
Executive Board Meeting, Wednesday, Sept. 23, 7:00 pm.

Weekly Offerings
 
Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending September 6 were $690.  The costs for each week are $1,118 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks).
 
Altar Guild
 
Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of September. 
 
Prayer Concerns
 
Please keep Anne Matulonis in your prayers as she continues her recovery from a broken hip.
 
We continue to keep the following in our prayers:
Dean Alexander, James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.
 
 
Celebrations
 
Linda and Dean Alexander are celebrating an anniversary on Sept. 13th.
 
Beth Almond is celebrating a birthday on Sept. 13th.

September 13, 2020                                                                                    10:00 A. M.
 
                                                         Service of Worship
 
                                       FIFTEENTH 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.)           
 
                May Christ dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted
                ​and grounded in love.
 
                May you have the power to know the love of Christ that surpasses
                knowledge.
 
                Now to the One who is able to accomplish far more than all we can ask
                or imagine.
 
                To God be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations,
                forever and ever.

                Let us worship God!
 
HYMN  98*                To God Be the Glory

OPENING PRAYER*
 
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 forgiveness grant us your favor as we make our confession. 
                You call us to excellence:  we fall short of your confidence in us.  You
                grant to us grace:  we abuse your gifts.  You expect our decisions to
                match your desires, our love to be genuine in obeying your will: yet
                we trust our appetites rather than relying on your goodness.  We look
                to our comfort rather than our neighbor’s need.  In Christ, have mercy
                on us and forgive our sin. . . .
 
SILENCE
            (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)
 
ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS
 
Paul assures us of God’s reconciling graciousness when he writes, “You know the grace of our Savior Jesus Christ, that though he was rich yet for your sake he became poor, so that by the poverty you might become rich.”  In Christ we may dwell in the richness of God’s favor, and rest assured in the fullness of God’s redeeming forgiveness.
 
READING OF SCRIPTURE
 
PSALM 103                            Hymnal, pages 824-825

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 18:  21-35
 
SERMON                               “Underlined For All Eternity!”
 
HYMN 121*                           There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy
 
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
 
                “Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed
                to give than to receive.”
                Acts 20: 35

OFFERTORY
   
                ​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 348*               Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling
 
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
for the
September 13 Service
 
 
98.   To God Be the Glory
 
To God be the glory, great things he hath done!
So loved he the world that he gave us his Son,
who yielded his life an atonement for sin,
and opened the life-gate that all may go in.
 
Refrain:
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the earth hear his voice!
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father thru Jesus the Son,
and give him the glory, great things he hath done!
 
 
O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
to every believer the promise of God;
the vilest offender who truly believes,
that moment from Jesus a pardon receives. (Refrain)
 
 
Great things he hath taught us, great things he hath done,
and great our rejoicing thru Jesus the Son;
but purer, and higher, and greater will be
our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.  (Refrain)
 

 
 
121.   There's a Wideness in God's Mercy
 
There’s a wideness in God’s mercy like the wideness of the sea;
there’s a kindness in God's justice, which is more than liberty.
 
There is welcome for the sinner, and more graces for the good!
There is mercy with the Savior; there is healing in his blood.
 
For the love of God is broader than the measure of our mind;
and the heart of the Eternal is most wonderfully kind.
 
If our love were but more simple, we should rest upon God's word;
and our lives would be illumined by the presence of our Lord.
 
 
348.    Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling
 
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me;
see, on the portals he's waiting and watching, watching for you and for me.
 
Refrain:
Come home, come home; you who are weary come home;
earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home!
 
Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading, pleading for you and for me?
Why should we linger and heed not his mercies, mercies for you and for me? [Refrain]
 
Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, passing from you and from me;
shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming, coming for you and for me. [Refrain]
 
O for the wonderful love he has promised, promised for you and for me!
Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon, pardon for you and for me. [Refrain]
 _____________________________________________________________________

CelebrationsThe doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am.   

If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us.  Procedures designed to minimize the risk of exposure are described later in this newsletter.  Please read and follow these procedures for your own, and your fellow congregants', safety.

If you are not able to attend in person, the service will be streamed simultaneously using our church Zoom access to allow you to participate.   

​A warm welcome to all visitors.
 
 If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895.  His email is harpsterd@vermontel.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 pastor, Rev. Harpster.
 
Upcoming Meetings/Events 
 
Executive Board Meeting, Wednesday, Sept. 23, 7:00 pm.
 
Weekly Offerings
 
Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending August 31 were $420.  The costs for each week are $1,118 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks).
 
Prayer Concerns
 
Please keep Susan Kneebone in your prayers.  You may write to Susan at Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community, 49 Cedar Hill Drive, Windsor, VT 05089
 
Please keep Marian Van Guilder who lives in Excelsior, MN, in your prayers.  She is the mother of Pam McLaughlin of Mount Holly.
 
We continue to keep the following in our prayers:
James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Linda Thomson is celebrating a birthday on Monday, September 7. Wish her a Happy Birthday when you see her.

​We will continue to offer access to our church service using Zoom.  If you are not already in the “Zoom Community” it is not very hard.  We would love to have you join us for Sunday worship.  If you have used Zoom before and have it installed on your computer you are ready to go.

If you have never used Zoom, please contact us before Sunday so we can help you navigate the program.  For help send an email to: 

                    Laura Lienhard  (Laura_Lienhard@hotmail.com)
                    or 
                    Dean Alexander (DiggerDa@aol.com)
 
PLEASE NOTE: You should only have one live microphone at any one location.  Please DO NOT use your phone AND the microphone on your computer at the same time.  Turn one off.  When both are on, rather unpleasant feedback noise can be produced.

​_________________________________________________________________________

September 6, 2020                                                                                                 10:00 A. M.
 
                                                            Service of Worship
 
                                    FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
                                                             LABOR SUNDAY
                                                       COMMUNION SUNDAY
 
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.)
 
          Come to Christ, the living bread who satisfies those who hunger and
          thirst for what is right. Come to Christ, who gives living water that you
          may never thirst again. Come to Christ, that being filled, you may
          minister to the hunger and the thirst of others. Come to God, to worship
          and praise through Jesus Christ who gives us life.
 
HYMN 97 *                                            For the Fruits of This Creation
                                                                               (tune of Hymn 688)
 
INVOCATION
 
CONFESSION OF SIN
 
          Gracious God, too often we take you for granted.
          When you call us to leave the situations that constrain us,
          we are too complacent to hear your voice,
          and too timid to leave what is familiar.
          Make us ready to go where you lead us. Amen.
 
SILENCE   (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer)
 
ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS
 
READING OF SCRIPTURE
 
PSALM 119                                           Hymnal, page 841
                                                                       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                                    Matthew 18:15-20
 
OFFERTORY SENTENCE
 
          God gives to us continually.
          In each breath, we receive God’s spirit.
          Responding to God’s generosity,
          let us give to God in thanksgiving.
 
OFFERTORY
          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*
 
SERMON                                           “We Need to Talk”
 
HYMN   613*                       O Thou Who This Mysterious Bread
 
Holy Communion
 
Invitation
 
Great Thanksgiving
 
Words of Institution
 
Elements are Received
 
Prayer of Thanksgiving after Communion (in unison)
 
          Gracious God, we thank you for this meal
          and for all of the ways you nourish us.
          Grow in us that we may nourish others.
          Sustain us as we press toward the goal of
          your call in Christ Jesus. Amen.

HYMN OF THANKSGIVING  581*                       Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service
 
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
for the
September 6 Service

97   For the Fruits of This Creation
 
For the fruits of this creation, thanks be to God;
for good gifts to every nation, thanks be to God;
for the plowing, sowing, reaping, silent growth while we are sleeping,
future needs in earth's safekeeping, thanks be to God.
 
In the just reward of labor, God's will is done;
in the help we give our neighbor, God's will is done;
in our worldwide task of caring for the hungry and despairing,
in the harvests we are sharing, God's will is done.
 
For the harvests of the Spirit, thanks be to God;
for the good we all inherit, thanks be to God;
for the wonders that astound us, for the truths that still confound us,
most of all, that love has found us, thanks be to God.
 
 
613   O Thou Who This Mysterious Bread
 
O Thou who this mysterious bread didst in Emmaus break,
return, herewith our souls to feed, and to thy followers speak.
 
Unseal the volume of thy grace, apply the gospel word;
open our eyes to see thy face, our hearts to know the Lord.
 
Of thee communing still, we mourn till thou the veil remove;
talk with us, and our hearts shall burn with flames of fervent love.
 
Enkindle now the heavenly zeal, and make thy mercy known,
and give our pardoned souls to feel that God and love are one.
 
  
581    Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service
 
Lord, whose love in humble service Bore the weight of human need,
Who upon the cross, forsaken, Worked Your mercy’s perfect deed:
We, Your servants, bring the worship Not of voice alone, but heart;
Consecrating to Your purpose Every gift which You impart.
 
Still Your children wander homeless; Still the hungry cry for bread;
Still the captives long for freedom; Still in grief we mourn our dead.
As you, Lord, in deep compassion Healed the sick and freed the soul,
By Your Spirit send Your power To our world to make it whole.
 
As we worship, grant us vision, Till your love’s revealing light
In its height and depth and greatness Dawns upon our quickened sight,
Making known the needs and burdens Your compassion bids us bear,
Stirring us to ardent service, Your abundant life to share.
 
Called by worship to your service, forth in your dear name we go,
To the child, the youth, the aged, Love in living deeds to show;
Hope and health, good will and comfort, Counsel, aid, and peace we give
That your servants, Lord, in freedom, May your mercy know and live.