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 thank Rev. Bruce Bishop for leading our worship service this week. 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 to leave a message or send an email to 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 Gill Home Board Meeting – has been rescheduled for April. Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, Feb. 24, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending January 31, 2021, were $1095.. 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 We ask that you keep David and Beth Almond's son, James, in your prayers as he continues his recovery at home. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Arthur Marin, Kathy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Ann Matulonis celebrates her birthday on February 7th. Andy Ohotnicky celebrates his birthday on February 11th. _________________________________________________________________________ February 7, 2021 10:15 A.M. SERVICE OF WORSHIP FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY 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 398* Jesus Calls Us 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 LESSON 1 Kings 19: 19 - 21 PSALM 19 Hymnal, page 750 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 9: 9 - 12 SERMON “Is God Calling You?” Hymn 348* Softly And Tenderly Jesus Is Calling 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 474* Precious Lord Take My Hand 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 569* We’ve a Story To Tell To The Nations BENEDICTION BENEDICTION RESPONSE POSTLUDE * All who are able may stand. _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the February 7 Service HYMN 398 Jesus Calls Us Jesus calls us o'er the tumult of our life's wild, restless sea; day by day his sweet voice soundeth, saying, "Christian, follow me!" As of old the apostles heard it by the Galilean lake, turned from home and toil and kindred, leaving all for Jesus' sake. Jesus calls us from the worship of the vain world's golden store, from each idol that would keep us, saying, "Christian, love me more!" In our joys and in our sorrows, days of toil and hours of ease, still he calls, in cares and pleasures, "Christian, love me more than these!" Jesus calls us! By thy mercies, Savior, may we hear thy call, give our hearts to thine obedience, serve and love thee best of all. Hymn 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] HYMN 474 Precious Lord Take My Hand Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, let me stand I am tired, I am weak, I am worn, 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 HYMN 569 We’ve a Story To Tell To The Nations We've a story to tell to the nations, that shall turn their hearts to the right, a story of truth and mercy, a story of peace and light, a story of peace and light. Refrain: For the darkness shall turn to dawning, and the dawning to noonday bright; and Christ's great kingdom shall come on earth, the kingdom of love and light. We've a song to be sung to the nations, that shall lift their hearts to the Lord, a song that shall conquer evil and shatter the spear and sword, and shatter the spear and sword. (Refrain) We've a message to give to the nations, that the Lord who reigneth above hath sent us his Son to save us, and show us that God is love, and show us that God is love. (Refrain) We've a Savior to show to the nations, who the path of sorrow hath trod, that all of the world's great peoples might come to the truth of God, might come to the truth of God. (Refrain) 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 these 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 thank Diane Holme for presenting our service this week. 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 Gill Home Board Meeting – Saturday, Feb. 6, 9:00 am Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, Feb. 24, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending January 24, 2021, were $1640. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Please 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 We ask that you keep David and Beth Almond's son, James Almond, in your prayers as he recovers at Dartmouth Hospital. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Arthur Marin, Kathy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Don Harpster celebrates a birthday on January 31st. David Almond celebrates a birthday on February 1st. Ann Matulonis celebrates a birthday on February 7th. _________________________________________________________________________ January 31st, 2021 10:00 A.M. Service of Worship FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICE 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) One: Breath of God, you are the one in whom we live and move and have our being. All: And we are the ones in whom you live and move and have your being, for you made us in your image and likeness. One: May your unifying energy be felt here among us, All: And rekindle the fire within, that makes us feel alive when we care for others. One: Let us draw from the well of living water, All: And be attentive to that which needs nourishing in ourselves and in our world. One: Come, let us worship where all are welcome in the house of God, All: And find safe haven in the heart of the Divine HYMN 265* O Christ the Healer, We Have Come OPENING PRAYER * God of our ancestors, of prophets from long ago and today, you have spoken your word deep within us. Help us to feel your love as it touches our skin, breaking down all barriers to belonging. You have called us to a life of abundance through interdependence, and so on this Health and Human Service Sunday, may we call upon the strength we have together to create a way when there is no way. As people who have journeyed through isolation and distance, may we claim ourselves united in the Body of Christ. Spirit of the Living God immerse us in the boundlessness of your presence and in a hope that comes like the dawn. Amen. CONFESSION OF SIN O Divine Healer, we confess that sometimes we yearn for you to wave a magic wand on our wounded lives to remove our pain, illness, and suffering. We hear the gospel story of the one seeking healing from Jesus and assume you will perform a similar miracle for all of us –if we just pray hard enough! And we do pray! Open our eyes to recognize the teachings and tools you have given us with which to seek healing in the midst of our afflictions and diseases. You whisper to us that wholeness requires self-care and rest; You nudge us toward caregivers who can support and advise us; You breathe into us energy to move and stretch and reach toward health; You place in us an urgency to seek justice so that all may enjoy adequate health care; Renew our spirits in the midst of our diseases and afflicting spirits. Transform us, O Holy One, for the health of your creation. Amen. SILENCE (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS In the midst of struggle, disease and affliction, know that you are made in God’s image and God sees you as whole and good. So may you celebrate God in your midst through opportunities of wholeness and justice. READING OF SCRIPTURE Mark 1: 21-28 PSALM 111 Hymnal, page 832, 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 1 Corinthians 8: 1-13 SERMON “Knowledge and Love” HYMN * Let There Be Light, O God of Hosts Sung to tune of Hymn 95 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”) Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen. 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 we give of ourselves to meet the needs of others, we are co-creators in the health of God’s creation. As we have been given much, let us give in return. OFFERTORY At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION* Transforming God, we dedicate our gifts for the health of your creation. May those who receive these gifts be blessed by your love and inspired to give to others so that your creation will continue to be transformed by your love. HYMN 152 * I Sing the Mighty Power of God BENEDICTION AND BLESSING* And now in the wholeness and the goodness of God, go forth. Go and laugh with your friends, reconcile with those who have hurt you, be kind to strangers, and feel the Divine smile upon us. Now and forevermore. Amen. 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 Readings for the January 31 Service HYMN 265 O Christ the Healer, We Have Come O Christ, the healer, we have come to pray for health, to plead for friends. How can we fail to be restored when reached by love that never ends? From every ailment flesh endures our bodies clamor to be freed; yet in our hearts we would confess that wholeness is our deepest need. How strong, O Lord, are our desires, how weak our knowledge of ourselves! Release in us those healing truths unconscious pride resists or shelves. In conflicts that destroy our health we recognize the world's disease; our common life declares our ills. Is there no cure, O Christ, for these? Grant that we all, made one in faith, in your community may find the wholeness that, enriching us, shall reach the whole of humankind. HYMN 95 (tune) Let There Be Light, O God of Hosts Let there be light, O God of hosts! Let there be wisdom on the earth! Let broad humanity have birth! Let there be deeds instead of boasts. Within our passioned hearts instill the calm that endeth strain and strife. Make us your ministers of life. Drive out the urge to curse and kill. Give us the peace of vision clear to see each other’s good, our own, to joy and suffer not alone: the love that casts aside all fear. Let woe and waste of warfare cease, that useful labor yet may build its homes with love and laughter filled! God, give your wayward children peace! HYMN 152 I Sing the Mighty Power of God I sing the almighty power of God, that made the mountains rise, that spread the flowing seas abroad, and built the lofty skies. I sing the wisdom that ordained the sun to rule the day; the moon shines full at God's command, and all the stars obey. I sing the goodness of the Lord, who filled the earth with food, who formed the creatures thru the Word, and then pronounced them good. Lord, how thy wonders are displayed, where'er I turn my eye, if I survey the ground I tread, or gaze upon the sky. There's not a plant or flower below, but makes thy glories known, and clouds arise, and tempests blow, by order from thy throne; while all that borrows life from thee is ever in thy care; and everywhere that we can be, thou, God, art present there. _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________
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 these 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 thank C. J. King for presenting our service this week. 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, Jan. 27, 7:00 pm Gill Home Board Meeting – Saturday, Feb. 6, 9:00 am Weekly Offerings Please 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 the Altar Guild services. Prayer Concerns Please keep Courtenay Dundy in your prayers. Donations may be made to Special Olympics in remembrance of her mother, Pam Dundy. We ask that you keep Terry DeYoung's father, Arthur Marin, in your prayers as he recovers from Covid-19. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. Celebrations Sandy Peplau celebrates a birthday on January 28th. Don Harpster celebrates a birthday on January 31st. David Almond celebrates a birthday on February 1st. _________________________________________________________________________ January 24, 2021 10:00 A. M. Service of Worship THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY PRELUDE (All are encouraged to use the prelude for quiet meditation to prepare for the worship service.) 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.) Holy God, you gather the whole universe into your radiant presence and continually reveal your Son as our Savior. Bring healing to all wounds, make whole all that is broken, speak truth to all illusion, and shed light in every darkness, that all creation will see your glory and know your Christ. Amen. HYMN 358* Dear Lord and Father of Mankind OPENING PRAYER* PRAYER OF CONFESSION Pastor: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. People: 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) Pastor: Let us confess our sins before God and one another. People: God, you call us and sometimes we duck under the table, hoping you didn’t notice us. You call us, and we try to look too busy to answer. You call us, and sometimes we just say, “No!” We know that we aren’t expected to do everything, but we often forget that you call us to be ourselves in the places where our very self is what is most needed. So give us the grace to say “Yes” to your call… even now…as we offer our silent confessions… SILENCE (Silence observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS God will not deny a repentant heart or an open spirit. Know that you are forgiven and walk anew in the assurance of God's love. Be open to the words of your Lord and Master. Walk anew with Jesus. Thanks be to God. Amen. READING OF SCRIPTURE FIRST READING Jonah 3: 1-10 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 1: 14-20 SERMON “Reluctant Prophets” HYMN 475* Come Down, O Love Divine JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. THE 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 “They shall not appear before the LORD empty-handed; all shall give as they are able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God that he has given you." (Deuteronomy 16:16-17) 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* Generous God, we ask you to bless the gifts we give this morning. We ask that you help us grow in trust, that we might follow without looking back, and that we might experience more deeply our new life in you. Help us to leave our nets on the shore, leave those things that seemed essential before we heard the call, so that we might travel the road you have put before us. In the name of Christ who goes before us and beside us, we pray. Amen. HYMN 467* Trust and Obey 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 January 24 Service HYMN 358 Dear Lord and Father of Mankind Dear Lord and Father of mankind, forgive our foolish ways; reclothe us in our rightful mind, in purer lives thy service find, in deeper reverence, praise. In simple trust like theirs who heard, beside the Syrian sea, the gracious calling of the Lord, let us, like them, without a word, rise up and follow thee. O sabbath rest by Galilee, O calm of hills above, where Jesus knelt to share with thee the silence of eternity, interpreted by love! Drop thy still dews of quietness, till all our strivings cease; take from our souls the strain and stress, and let our ordered lives confess the beauty of thy peace. Breathe through the heats of our desire thy coolness and thy balm; let sense be dumb, let flesh retire; speak through the earthquake, wind, and fire, O still, small voice of calm. HYMN 475 Come Down, O Love Divine Come down, O Love divine, seek thou this soul of mine, and visit it with thine own ardor glowing; O Comforter, draw near, within my heart appear, and kindle it, thy holy flame bestowing. O let it freely burn, till earthly passions turn to dust and ashes in its heat consuming; and let thy glorious light shine ever on my sight, and clothe me round, the while my path illuming. And so the yearning strong, with which the soul will long, shall far outpass the power of human telling; for none can guess its grace, till Love create a place wherein the Holy Spirit makes a dwelling. HYMN 467 Trust and Obey When we walk with the Lord in the light of his word, what a glory he sheds on our way! While we do his good will, he abides with us still, and with all who will trust and obey. Refrain: Trust and obey, for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. Not a burden we bear, not a sorrow we share, but our toil he doth richly repay; not a grief or a loss, not a frown or a cross, but is blest if we trust and obey. [Refrain] But we never can prove the delights of his love until all on the altar we lay; for the favor he shows, for the joy he bestows, are for them who will trust and obey. [Refrain] Then in fellowship sweet we will sit at his feet, or we'll walk by his side in the way; what he says we will do, where he sends we will go; never fear, only trust and obey. [Refrain] _________________________________________________________________________ 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 these 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 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, Jan. 27, 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Please mail your offerings to Anne Oakes, 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149. Altar Guild Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services. Prayer Concerns Please keep Mark and Carolyn Gauthier in your prayers as Carolyn recovers from surgery. Please keep Courtenay Dundy in your prayers. Her mother, Pam Dundy, passed away on December 26, 2020. Cards may be sent to Courtenay c/o The Pettigrew Inn, 13 Pleasant St, Ludlow, VT 05149 We ask that you keep Terry DeYoung's father, Arthur Marin, in your prayers as he recovers from Covid-19. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. _________________________________________________________________________ January 17, 2021 10:00 A. M. Service of Worship SECOND SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY 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 are here to praise God because Jesus Christ has set us free to live. We are here because in Christ we are forgiven and made whole. We are gathered because Jesus Christ has united us into one family of faith. We will witness to the Good News; Jesus Christ frees and unites, Praise God! Alleluia! Amen. HYMN 189* Fairest Lord Jesus OPENING PRAYER* Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen. HYMN 463* Lord Speak To Me 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. Eternal God, you love us steadfastly, but we have trouble loving in return; you call us, but we have wax-filled ears; You reveal yourself, but our eyelids are heavy. You lead us toward our neighbor, but we build walls around ourselves. You hate evil, injustice, and alienation, but we get used to it. O God, we pray, help us to see ourselves both as we are and as we might be before you. Draw us by your spirit’s tether into your forgiving, renewing, and serviceable grace, through the mercies of Christ. . . . SILENCE (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS God says to us: You are my chosen ones. I love you. I’m proud of you. Stand firm in your renewed commitment. Know that I have forgiven you. I call you by name, you are mine. I have entered into covenant with you and will stand by you in all times and all places. Dare to live fully the life to which I have called you. Amen. Hymn 431* Let There Be Peace On Earth READING OF SCRIPTURE THE EPISTLE LESSON I Corinthians 6:12 - 20 HYMN 89* Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee PSALM 139 Hymnal, pages 854-855 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. GOSPEL LESSON John 1: 43-51 HYMN 384* Love Divine, All Loves Excelling PRAYER CONCERNS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. God of every land and nation, you have created all people and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ. Listen to the cries of those who pray to you, and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name, all people will know the power of love at work in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord, who taught us to pray . . . THE 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 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* Each of us is a fragile miracle, evidence of God's creative hands, and amazing grace. We are each unique, unrepeatable gifts to the world. We are proof of God's love. And so we who are the gifts of creation now give gifts to our Creator. Gifts brought in love. Amen HYMN God Bless America BENEDICTION AND BLESSING* Do not be dismayed by the brokenness in the world. All things break. And all things can be mended. Not with time, as they say, but with intention. So go. Love intentionally, extravagantly, unconditionally. The broken world waits in darkness for the light that is you. 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 Readings for the January 17 Service 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. HYMN 463 Lord, Speak to Me Lord, speak to me, that I may speak in living echoes of thy tone; as thou hast sought, so let me seek thine erring children lost and lone. O strengthen me, that while I stand firm on the rock, and strong in thee, I may stretch out a loving hand to wrestlers with the troubled sea. O teach me, Lord, that I may teach the precious things thou dost impart; and wing my words, that they may reach the hidden depths of many a heart. O fill me with thy fullness, Lord, until my very heart o'erflow in kindling thought and glowing word, thy love to tell, thy praise to show. O use me, Lord, use even me, just as thou wilt, and when, and where, until thy blessed face I see, thy rest, thy joy, thy glory share. HYMN 431 Let There Be Peace On Earth Let there be peace on earth And let it begin with me; Let there be peace on earth, The peace that was meant to be. With God as our Creator, Children all are we, Let us walk with each other in perfect harmony. Let peace begin with me, Let this be the moment now; With every step I take, Let this be my solemn vow: To take each moment and live each moment in peace eternally. Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. Hymn 89 Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee Joyful, joyful, we adore thee, God of glory, Lord of love; hearts unfold like flowers before thee, opening to the sun above. Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away. Giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day! All thy works with joy surround thee, earth and heaven reflect thy rays, stars and angels sing around thee, center of unbroken praise. Field and forest, vale and mountain, flowery meadow, flashing sea, chanting bird and flowing fountain, call us to rejoice in thee. Thou art giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blest, wellspring of the joy of living, ocean depth of happy rest! Thou our Father, Christ our brother, all who live in love are thine; teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine. Mortals, join the mighty chorus, which the morning stars began; love divine is reigning o'er us, binding all within its span. Ever singing, march we onward, victors in the midst of strife; joyful music leads us sunward, in the triumph song of life. HYMN 384 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling Love divine, all loves excelling, joy of heaven, to earth come down; fix in us thy humble dwelling; all thy faithful mercies crown! Jesus, thou art all compassion, pure, unbounded love thou art; visit us with thy salvation; enter every trembling heart. Breathe, O breathe thy loving Spirit into every troubled breast! Let us all in thee inherit; let us find that second rest. Take away our bent to sinning; Alpha and Omega be; end of faith, as its beginning, set our hearts at liberty. Come, Almighty to deliver, let us all thy life receive; suddenly return and never, nevermore thy temples leave. Thee we would be always blessing, serve thee as thy hosts above, pray and praise thee without ceasing, glory in thy perfect love. Finish, then, thy new creation; pure and spotless let us be. Let us see thy great salvation perfectly restored in thee; changed from glory into glory, till in heaven we take our place, till we cast our crowns before thee, lost in wonder, love, and praise. God Bless America God bless America, land that I love Stand beside her and guide her Through the night with the light from above From the mountains to the prairies To the oceans white with foam God bless America, my home sweet home God bless America, my home sweet home. Repeat 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 these 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 Our worship this week is led by Peter Andrews, who we thank for this gift. 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, January 27, at 7:00 pm Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending January 3, 2021, were $600. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of January. Prayer Concerns Please keep Courtenay Dundy in your prayers. Her mother, Pam Dundy, passed away on December 26, 2020. We ask that you keep Terry DeYoung's father, Arthur Marin, as he recovers from Covid-19. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. If you are aware of someone in need of prayer, please leave a message at the church office by phone, 802-228-4211, or email, unitedchurch@tds.net. _________________________________________________________________________ January 10, 2021 10:00 A.M. First Sunday After Epiphany 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.) It is good to give thanks to you, O God, To declare your steadfast love in the morning; For you have made us glad by your work; At the works of your hands, we sing for joy. HYMN 128* He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought RESPONSIVE READING “Pay no attention to how tall and handsome he is. I have rejected him, because I do not judge as people judge. They look at the outward appearance, but I look at the heart.”– 1 Samuel 16:7 Lord, I know your evaluation process is not the same as my own. “My grace is all you need, for my power is greatest when you are weak.” I am most happy, then, to be proud of my weaknesses, in order to feel the protection of Christ's power over me. I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.– 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Lord, I know my flaws do not frustrate you; you love me with so much grace that you choose to demonstrate strength in my weakness. But you, O Lord, are a merciful and loving God, always patient, always kind and faithful. – Psalm 86:15 Lord, I know your love is steadfast. I cannot cause it to end. But God has shown us how much he loves us—it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us!– Romans 5:8 Lord, I know you have proven your great love for me on the cross. We love because God first loved us.– 1 John 4:19-20 Lord, I know my capacity to love others is a direct result of your love for me. 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. PRAYER THE CHILD IN US ALL “Anger” SERMON “Dangerous Emotions – Anger, Self-Degradation” HYMN 593* Here I Am Lord PASTORAL PRAYER 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 SOLO I Believe At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION* HYMN 520* Nobody Knows the Trouble I See 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 January 10 Service HYMN 128 He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought He leadeth me: O blessed thought! O words with heavenly comfort fraught! Whate'er I do, where'er I be, still 'tis God's hand that leadeth me. [Refrain] He leadeth me, he leadeth me, by his own hand he leadeth me; his faithful follower I would be, for by his hand he leadeth me. Sometimes mid scenes of deepest gloom, sometimes where Eden's bowers bloom, by waters still, o'er troubled sea, still 'tis his hand that leadeth me. [Refrain] Lord, I would place my hand in thine, nor ever murmur nor repine; content, whatever lot I see, since 'tis my God that leadeth me. [Refrain] And when my task on earth is done, when by thy grace the victory's won, e'en death's cold wave I will not flee, since God through Jordan leadeth me. [Refrain] HYMN 593 Here I Am Lord I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry All who dwell in dark and sin, My hand will save I who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send? [Refrain] Here I am, Lord; Is it I, Lord? I have heard You calling in the night I will go, Lord If You lead me I will hold Your people in my heart I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people's pain I have wept for love of them, They turn away I will break their hearts of stone, Give them hearts for love alone I will speak my words to them, Whom shall I send? [Refrain] I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame I will set a feast for them, My hand will save Finest bread I will provide, 'Til their hearts be satisfied I will give my life to them, Whom shall I send? [Refrain] HYMN 520 Nobody Knows the Trouble I See [Refrain] Nobody knows the trouble I see, nobody knows but Jesus; oh, nobody knows the trouble I see, glory hallelujah! Sometimes I'm up, sometimes I'm down, Oh, yes, Lord! Sometimes I'm almost to the ground, Oh, yes, Lord! [Refrain] Although you see me going long so, Oh, yes, Lord! I have my troubles here below, Oh, yes, Lord! [Refrain] What makes old Satan hate me so? Oh, yes, Lord! Cause he got me once and let me go, Oh, yes, Lord! [Refrain] _________________________________________________________________________ CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW are shared ELECTRONICALLY (contact unitedchurch@tds.net 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 these 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 Our worship this week is led by Peter Andrews, who we thank for this gift. 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, January 27, at 7:00 pm Christmas Flowers Given In loving memory of Jane Creaser Don and Virginia Ellison Pat Liao By: Laura, Allison, and Jesse Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 20, 2020, were $840. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of January. Prayer Concerns We ask that you keep Terry DeYoung's father, Arthur Marin, as he recovers from Covid-19. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. If you are aware of someone in need of prayer, please leave a message at the church office by phone, 802-228-4211, or email, unitedchurch@tds.net. Celebrations George Thomson is celebrating a birthday on Jan. 3. Linda Alexander is celebrating a birthday on Jan. 7. _________________________________________________________________________ January 3, 2021 10:00 A.M. Service of Worship SECOND SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS 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.) It is good to give thanks to you, O God, To declare your steadfast love in the morning; For you have made us glad by your work; At the works of your hands, we sing for joy. HYMN 710* Faith of Our Fathers RESPONSIVE READING The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Amen 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. PRAYER THE CHILD IN US ALL “Anxiety” SERMON “Dangerous Emotions - Anxiety” HYMN 375* There is a Balm in Gilead JOYS AND CONCERNS PASTORAL PRAYER 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, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION* HYMN 102* Now Thank We All Our 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 to the Hymns for the January 3 Service HYMN 710 Faith of Our Fathers Faith of our fathers, living still, in spite of dungeon, fire, and sword; O how our hearts beat high with joy whene'er we hear that glorious word! Refrain: Faith of our fathers, holy faith! We will be true to thee till death. Faith of our fathers, we will strive to win all nations unto thee; and through the truth that comes from God, we all shall then be truly free. [Refrain] Faith of our fathers, we will love both friend and foe in all our strife; and preach thee, too, as love knows how by kindly words and virtuous life. [Refrain] 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 102 Now Thank We All Our God Now thank we all our God, with heart and hands and voices, who wondrous things has done, in whom this world rejoices; who from our mothers' arms has blessed us on our way with countless gifts of love, and still is ours today. O may this bounteous God through all our life be near us, with ever joyful hearts and blessed peace to cheer us; and keep us still in grace, and guide us when perplexed; and free us from all ills, in this world and the next. All praise and thanks to God the Father now be given; the Son, and him who reigns with them in highest heaven; the one eternal God, whom earth and heaven adore; for thus it was, is now, and shall be evermore. _________________________________________________________________________ CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW Service are shared ELECTRONICALLY (contact unitedchurch@tds.net 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 these 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 Our worship this week is led by the Rev. Bruce Bishop, who we thank for this gift. 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, January 27, at 7:00 pm Christmas Flowers Given In loving memory of Jane Creaser Don and Virginia Ellison Pat Liao By: Laura, Allison, and Jesse Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 20, 2020, were $770. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of January. Prayer Concerns We ask that you keep Terry DeYoung's father, Arthur Marin, as he recovers from Covid-19. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. If you are aware of someone in need of prayer, please leave a message at the church office by phone, 802-228-4211, or email, unitedchurch@tds.net. Celebrations George Thomson is celebrating a birthday on Jan. 3. _________________________________________________________________________ December 27, 2020 10:00 A.M. Service of Worship FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS 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.) It is good to give thanks to you, O God, To declare your steadfast love in the morning; For you have made us glad by your work; At the works of your hands, we sing for joy. HYMN 224* Good Christian Friends Rejoice 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. God of everlasting mercy hear our prayer today, as we bring our lives before you. We come as people who dwell on the past. We want to face your new day with life and hope in our hearts, but many times the events of our own lives weigh us down. We forget to forgive one another. We dwell on our own past mistakes. We refuse to bury dead issues and worn-out memories. Free us, free us from ourselves, God, so that we might walk new pathways, alive with grace. . . SILENCE (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.) ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS The Good News in Christ is that God offers us life at every moment, forgiving us, and inviting us to the freshness of new beginnings. May God be praised for this gracious and loving gift. READING OF SCRIPTURE Galatians 4: 4-7 PSALM 148 Hymnal, page 861 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 2:22-35 HYMN 221 In a Bleak Midwinter SERMON “A Child of Salvation” HYMN 237* Sing We Now of Christmas 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 At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION* HYMN 250* Once in Royal David’s City 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 December 27 Service HYMN 224 Good Christian Friends Rejoice Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice; give ye heed to what we say: News, news! Jesus Christ is born today! Ox and ass before him bow, and he is in the manger now. Christ is born today, Christ is born today! Good Christian friends, rejoice, with heart and soul and voice; now ye hear of endless bliss: News, news! Jesus Christ was born for this! He hath opened the heaven's door, and ye are blest forevermore. Christ was born for this, Christ was born for this! Good Christian friends, rejoice, with heart and soul and voice; now ye need not fear the grave: News, news! Jesus Christ was born to save! Calls you one and calls you all to gain his everlasting hall. Christ was born to save, Christ was born to save! HYMN 221 In a Bleak Midwinter In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan, earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, in the bleak midwinter, long ago. 2. Our God, heaven cannot hold him, nor earth sustain; heaven and earth shall flee away when he comes to reign. In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed the Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ. 3. Angels and archangels may have gathered there, cherubim and seraphim thronged the air; but his mother only, in her maiden bliss, worshiped the beloved with a kiss. 4. What can I give him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; if I were a Wise Man, I would do my part; yet what I can I give him: give my heart. HYMN 237 Sing We Now of Christmas Sing we now of Christmas, Noel, sing we here! Hear our grateful praises to the babe so dear. Refrain: Sing we Noel, the King is born, Noel! Sing we now of Christmas, sing we now Noel! Angels called to shepherds, "Leave your flocks at rest, journey forth to Bethlehem, find the child so blest." (Refrain) In Bethlehem they found him; Joseph and Mary mild, seated by the manger, watching the holy child. (Refrain) From the eastern country came the kings afar, bearing gifts to Bethlehem, guided by a star. (Refrain) Gold and myrrh they took there, gifts of greatest price; there was never a stable so like paradise. (Refrain) HYMN 250 Once in Royal David’s City Once in royal David's city stood a lowly cattle shed, where a mother laid her baby in a manger for his bed; Mary, loving mother mild, Jesus Christ, her little child. He came down to earth from heaven who is God and Lord of all, and his shelter was a stable, and his cradle was a stall. With the poor, the scorned, the lowly lived on earth our Savior holy. Jesus is our childhood's pattern; day by day, like us he grew; he was little, weak, and helpless, tears and smiles like us he knew; and he feeleth for our sadness, and he shareth in our gladness. And our eyes at last shall see him, through his own redeeming love; for that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heaven above; and he leads his children on to the place where he is gone. CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW Service are shared ELECTRONICALLY (contact unitedchurch@tds.net 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 these 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 Our worship this week, and throughout the Advent Season is led by Christine Boardman, who we thank for this gift. 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 Christmas Eve Service - Thursday, December 24, 4:00 P.M. (Zoom only) Executive Board Meeting, Wednesday, January 27, at 7:00 pm Christmas Flowers Given In loving memory of Jane Creaser Don and Virginia Ellison Pat Liao By: Laura, Allison, and Jesse If you would like to donate for Christmas flowers in memory of or in honor of a loved one, please contact Linda Alexander. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 6, 2020, were $500. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of December. Prayer Concerns We ask that you keep Terry DeYoung's father, Arthur Marin, as he recovers from Covid-19. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. If you are aware of someone in need of prayer, please leave a message at the church office by phone, 802-228-4211, or email, unitedchurch@tds.net. Pastor Harpster’s Address Reverend Dr. Donald E. Harpster 1716 Horne Creek Drive Durham, North Carolina 27703-7845 Phone: 919-302-6011 don.harpsterNC@gmail.com _________________________________________________________________________In loving memory of Jane Creaser Don and Virginia Ellison Pat Liao Given By: Laura, Allison and Jesse ECCO EXPERIMENT IN COVENANTAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH A Virtual Christmas Eve Service In addition to our Zoom Christmas Eve service from 4 -5 PM a virtual service will be available any time on Christmas Eve Day thanks to the ECCO group. This Virtual Christmas Eve service is produced by a collaboration of members of five area churches called ECCO, Experimental Covenantal Community Outreach. Members from the United Church of Ludlow, the First Congregational Church -UCC, Springfield, the United Church of Bellows Falls -UCC, the Grafton Community Church and the Acworth Congregational Church (NH) each created a segment of the worship service which includes scripture readings and music. There is traditional Christmas music that you can sing to and special music that you can listen to. Linda Thomson is the reader and Dean Alexander is our soloist for this service. Patrick Cody of Okemo Valley Television has generously overseen the production of this virtual service. There are many options for attending this Christmas Eve service safely from the comfort of your own homes. It will be broadcast on three public access television stations serving the area at 7 PM on Christmas Eve. Okemo Valley Television (channel Comcast 1076 and VTel 166), Springfield Area Public Access Television- SAPA (channel Comcast 1077 and VTel 160), and the Falls Area Community Television FACT (channel Comcast 1076 and VTel 172) have all agreed to broadcast it simultaneously for which the participants are grateful. If more flexibility in time is needed or if you do not have access to cable, it will also be available for viewing anytime on Christmas Eve from the websites of each of the stations, on Facebook and on You Tube and from each of the church’s websites. _________________________________________________________________________ December 20, 2020 10:00 A.M. Service of Worship Fourth Sunday of Advent – LOVE l 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. THE LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES O Holy One, we light this fourth candle of love And marvel at your desire to be one with us. Let its flame summon hearts grown cold into the warmth of a people living in the light of Love. Fill our lives with Love, making room there for friends and strangers. God be with us as we work for justice and peace in the service of Hope. God be with us in this Light of Love. CALL TO WORSHIP* Sing out, my soul! Sing of the holiness of God: Who has delighted in humanity; lifted up the poor, satisfied the hungry, given voice to the silent, and grounded the oppressor. God has blessed the full-bellied with emptiness, And given the gift of tears To those who have never wept; God has desired the darkness of the womb, and inhabited our flesh-- Sing of the longing of God: Sing out, my soul! HYMN 203 * Hail to the Lord’s Anointed INVOCATION O Wondrous God, send your Messenger to us today with a word of grace if we are fearful, move us to Confidence. If we are weary, offer us rest. If we are empty, fill us with Hope. We have been searching for you far away. Let us find you at home in our midst, changing hearts and minds urging us to join your work of Love. We pray in the name of the One who is coming, Jesus, the Christ. Amen. THE PSALTER READING Psalm 89 1-4, 19-37 Hymnal page 807 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 PRAYER OF CONFESSION God, we confess that it is not easy to watch and to wait in the wilderness of this time together. Our world worships power and materialism while you send us the Prince of Peace. How difficult it is to speak the truth in love as we witness to your intention of justice while there are louder voices shouting the message of hatred and division. We turn to you now asking for courage and kindness that we may live fully as your beloved children. Forgive us and clear away a path for love every step we take. Silence ASSURANCE OF GRACE THE GOSPEL LESSON Luke 1:26-38 SERMON “Birthing a Promise” HYMN 217 * Away in the Manger SHARING OUR JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let is Pray. THE LORD’S PRAYER (trespasses) PRAYER RESPONSE 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. CALL TO OUR OFFERING In struggle and in joy, God is faithful to us. We bring forth our offerings – our tithes, our treasures, our least coins – to demonstrate our faithfulness to God. OFFERTORY Christmas Hallelujah Dean Alexander DOXOLOGY* At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION O Faithful One, accept these gifts of our hearts and hands. May they be multiplied and magnified as the living presence of Christ in the world. Amen. CLOSING HYMN 242* Love Came Down at Christmas BENEDICTION AND BLESSING * BENEDICTION RESPONSE DISMISSAL Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God. POSTLUDE _________________________________________________________________________
Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading for the December 20 Service HYMN 203 Hail to the Lord’s Anointed Hail to the Lord's Anointed, great David's greater Son! Hail in the time appointed, his reign on earth begun! He comes to break oppression, to set the captive free; to take away transgression, and rule in equity. He comes with succor speedy to those who suffer wrong; to help the poor and needy, and bid the weak be strong; to give them songs for sighing, heir darkness turn to light, whose souls, condemned and dying, are precious in his sight. He shall come down like showers upon the fruitful earth; love, joy, and hope, like flowers, spring in his path to birth. Before him, on the mountains, shall peace, the herald, go, and righteousness, in fountains, from hill to valley flow. To him shall prayer unceasing and daily vows ascend; his kingdom still increasing, a kingdom without end. The tide of time shall never his covenant remove; his name shall stand forever; that name to us is love. HYMN 217 Away in the Manger Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. The stars in the sky looked down where he lay, the little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay. The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, but little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes; I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky and stay by my cradle till morning is nigh. Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay close by me forever, and love me, I pray; bless all the dear children in thy tender care, and fit us for heaven to live with thee there. HYMN 242 Love Came Down at Christmas Love came down at Christmas, Love all lovely, Love divine; Love was born at Christmas; star and angels gave the sign. Worship we the Godhead, Love incarnate, Love divine; worship we our Jesus, but wherewith for sacred sign? Love shall be our token; love be yours and love be mine; love to God and all men, love for plea and gift and sign. CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW Service are shared ELECTRONICALLY (contact unitedchurch@tds.net 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 these 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 Our worship this week, and throughout the Advent Season is led by Christine Boardman, who we thank for this gift. 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 Christmas Eve Service - Thursday, December 24, 4:00 P.M. (Zoom only) Executive Board Meeting, Wednesday, January 27, at 7:00 pm Christmas Flowers If you would like to make a donation for Christmas flowers in memory of or in honor of a loved one, please contact Linda Alexander. If possible, please contact Linda by December 13. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 6, 2020, were $500. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of December. Prayer Concerns We ask that you keep Terry DeYoung's father, Arthur Marin, as he recovers from Covid-19. We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. If you are aware of someone in need of prayer, please leave a message at the church office by phone, 802-228-4211, or email, unitedchurch@tds.net. Pastor Harpster’s Address Reverend Dr. Donald E. Harpster 1716 Horne Creek Drive Durham, North Carolina 27703-7845 Phone: 919-302-6011 don.harpsterNC@gmail.com _________________________________________________________________________ A New Way for Churches Bob Kottkamp and George Thomson have participated in a weekly Zoom partnership called ECCO (Experiment in Covenantal Community Outreach). It is an idea born of a need for pastoral leadership along the southern end of the Connecticut River Valley in both Vermont and New Hampshire. It consists of four small churches (Acworth, NH, Bellows Falls, Ludlow and Springfield) all facing problems and trying to stay alive and vibrant to serve their congregations. All the churches are dealing with the fact that they are looking for part time pastors with few if any candidates. It is challenging if not impossible to even find interim pastors. We are working on establishing a collaborative covenantal cluster of possibly one ordained minister, and a combination of licensed lay ministers, semi-retired pastors, and student pastors to support one another and our individual congregations. We have been working with the Conference in developing this model of church leadership. The goal would be to have a person in our houses of worship every Sunday to lead our worship services and then provide opportunities for all the churches to gather together for a wide variety of activities. Now these other activities would be provided virtually through Zoom. _________________________________________________________________________ ECCO EXPERIMENT IN COVENANTAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH Advent Bible Study “A Walk with Mary” continues during Advent, with the final session on Thursday, December 17th at 7 pm by Zoom. E-mail Diane Holme at holmelaw@vermontel.net if you would like to join in or try it out. _________________________________________________________________________ December 13, 2020 10:00 A.M. Service of Worship THIRD Sunday of Advent – JOY 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. A READING 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 THE LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES O Holy One, we light this third candle, and delight in the sparkle of its outrageous reminder to “rejoice”! Let its flame cast light into shadowy places and show where work is to be done. Let a community of builders be formed in the Light of Joy. Let Joy find home in our hearts, and make space for your presence there, As we work for justice and peace in the service of Love. God be with us in this Light of Joy. CALL TO WORSHIP* Rejoice! The spirit of God is sending us: to bring good news to the oppressed, to comfort the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, to proclaim the year of favor among God’s people. Rejoice! The work of the Spirit is calling us: to rebuild ancient relationships ruined by injustice, to repair the cities as places of hope, to restore land devastated across generations. to proclaim the year of favor among God’s people. Rejoice! The Glory of the Spirit is leading us: to cast off any faint spirit and put on the mantle of praise, to take root as the plantings of the HOLY ONE, to display God’s glory. Come, let us worship in Joy! HYMN 198 * My Soul Gives Glory to my God INVOCATION Holy One, builder who delights in making spaces of safety and beauty, Matchmaker who rejoices in presenting new spouses with a future of hope, fill us today with the gifts we need to join you in your life-sustaining, hope-giving work in the world; let us share your joyful vision of beauty and justice in this world you have created and loved. In the name of the One who is coming, Amen. THE PSALTER READING Psalm 126 Hymnal page 847 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. WITNESS TO JOY Instead of a typical Confession of Sin, today let us try something that may be equally challenging in light of the difficult year we have spent: Let’s give witness instead to signs of Joy in our midst, signs that our God is doing something new, and calling us to faithfulness in our contexts. What are signs of hope, of encouragement, of change, of comfort, that point to the Holy One at work? Are there signs which call us to join in, or amplify these signs in our community? Encourage people to answer out loud. Assurance of Grace Holy one, we give you thanks that you meet us in our struggles, and call us into a future of hope and joy. You have promised to be faithful, and we open our hearts to you in trust, in the name of the one you send, Jesus. THE GOSPEL LESSON John 1:6-8, 19-28 SERMON “An inside job” HYMN 211 * O Come, O Come, Emmanuel SHARING OUR JOYS AND CONCERNS PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. THE 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. CALL TO OUR OFFERING In struggle and in joy, God is faithful to us. We bring forth our offerings – our tithes, our treasures, our least coins – to demonstrate our faithfulness to God. OFFERTORY AND DOXOLOGY* At the Presentation, Hymn 95* Old 100th Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. PRAYER OF DEDICATION O Faithful One, accept these gifts of our hearts and hands. May they be multiplied and magnified as the living presence of Christ in the world. Amen. CLOSING HYMN 216* Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming BENEDICTION AND BLESSING * BENEDICTION RESPONSE DISMISSAL Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God. POSTLUDE _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns
and Responsive Reading for the December 13 Service HYMN 198 My Soul Gives Glory to my God My soul gives glory to my God, My heart pours out its praise. God lifted up my lowliness in many marvelous ways. My God has done great things for me: Yes, holy is this Name. All people will declare me blessed, And blessings they shall claim. From age to age to all who fear, Such mercy love imparts, Dispensing justice far and near, Dismissing selfish hearts. Love casts the mighty from their thrones, Promotes the insecure, Leaves hungry spirits satisfied; The rich seem suddenly poor. Praise God, whose loving covenant supports those in distress, Remembering past promises With present faithfulness. HYMN 211 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel O come, O come, Immanuel, and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel shall come to you, O Israel. O come, O Wisdom from on high, who ordered all things mightily; to us the path of knowledge show and teach us in its ways to go. Refrain O come, O come, great Lord of might, who to your tribes on Sinai's height in ancient times did give the law in cloud and majesty and awe. Refrain O come, O Branch of Jesse's stem, unto your own and rescue them! From depths of hell your people save, and give them victory o'er the grave. Refrain\ O come, O Key of David, come and open wide our heavenly home. Make safe for us the heavenward road and bar the way to death's abode. Refrain O come, O Bright and Morning Star, and bring us comfort from afar! Dispel the shadows of the night and turn our darkness into light. Refrain O come, O King of nations, bind in one the hearts of all mankind. Bid all our sad divisions cease and be yourself our King of Peace. Refrain HYMN 216 Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming Lo, how a Rose e'er blooming From tender stem hath sprung! Of Jesse's lineage coming As men of old have sung. It came, a flower bright, Amid the cold of winter When half-gone was the night. Isaiah 'twas foretold it, The Rose I have in mind: With Mary we behold it, The virgin mother kind. To show God's love aright She bore to men a Savior When half-gone was the night. This Flower, whose fragrance tender With sweetness fills the air, Dispels with glorious splendor The darkness everywhere. True man, yet very God, From sin and death He saves us And lightens every load CHURCH SERVICES at the UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW Service are shared ELECTRONICALLY (contact unitedchurch@tds.net 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 these 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 Our worship this week, and throughout the Advent Season is led by Christine Boardman, who we thank for this gift. 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, December 9, at 6:30 pm Christmas Eve Service - Thursday, December 24, 5:00 P.M. (Zoom only) Christmas Flowers If you would like to make a donation for Christmas flowers in memory of or in honor of a loved one, please contact Linda Alexander. If possible, please contact Linda by December 13. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending November 29, 2020, were $1220. 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 December. Prayer Concerns We continue to keep the following in our prayers: James Almond, Terry DeYoung, Kathy Doyle, Pam Dundy, Judy Edwards, Jean Eggleston, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro. If you are aware of someone in need of prayer, please leave a message at the church office by phone, 802-228-4211, or email, unitedchurch@tds.net. Pastor Harpster’s Address Reverend Dr. Donald E. Harpster 1716 Horne Creek Drive Durham, North Carolina 27703-7845 Phone: 919-302-6011 _________________________________________________________________________ A New Way for Churches Bob Kottkamp and George Thomson have participated in a weekly Zoom partnership called ECCO (Experiment in Covenantal Community Outreach). It is an idea born of a need for pastoral leadership along the southern end of the Connecticut River Valley in both Vermont and New Hampshire. It consists of four small churches (Acworth, NH, Bellows Falls, Ludlow and Springfield) all facing problems and trying to stay alive and vibrant to serve their congregations. All the churches are dealing with the fact that they are looking for part time pastors with few if any candidates. It is challenging if not impossible to even find interim pastors. We are working on establishing a collaborative covenantal cluster of possibly one ordained minister, and a combination of licensed lay ministers, semi-retired pastors, and student pastors to support one another and our individual congregations. We have been working with the Conference in developing this model of church leadership. The goal would be to have a person in our houses of worship every Sunday to lead our worship services and then provide opportunities for all the churches to gather together for a wide variety of activities. Now these other activities would be provided virtually through Zoom. _________________________________________________________________________ ECCO EXPERIMENT IN COVENANTAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH Advent Bible Study “A Walk with Mary” during Advent, starting Thursday, December 3rd at 7 pm by Zoom for three weeks. E-mail Diane Holme at holmelaw@vermontel.net if you would like to join in or try it out. _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ December 6, 2020 10:00 A.M. Service of Worship Second Sunday of Advent – PEACE 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. SHARING OUR JOYS AND CONCERNS A Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11 The Lighting of the Advent Candles O Holy One, we light this second candle, A candle offering peaceful comfort to weary spirits after a year of pain and loss. Let its glow remind us of your tender care and warm our lives in the Light of Peace. Let it guide us to your presence in our midst, Leading us to your Justice and Joy in the service of Love. God be with us in this Light of Peace. Call to Worship * Let us hear what God will speak, Tender words for a burdened people: Comfort, comfort, my people! The days of sorrow are ending! Let us hear what God will speak, Encouraging words for an anxious people: Prepare a way for the Holy One, Through deserts of despair build a highway for our God! Let us hear what God will speak, words of vision for a weary people: Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss! Come, let us worship! Hymn 200 * Tell Out, My Soul Invocation O Holy One, you are tender shepherd, architect of the Way, beguiling hope of all who go looking for you deep in their lives. Surprise us here with sweetness, challenge, vision. Surprise us with whatever we may need in this moment to recognize you and follow you into the future. We pray in the name of Jesus, the Beloved. AMEN. THE PSALTER READING PSALM 85 Hymnal page 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. PRAYER OF CONFESSION The year past has been riddled with crisis and losses: Covid-19, natural disasters of fire and hurricane, exposure of societal injustices rooted in racist and sexist structures, and painful political reckonings. In this moment we are called to examine our hearts for our role in the last year: to name what traditionally have been called Sins of Commission-- that is, what we may have done to contribute to the pain and chaos of these days; Sins of Omission-- that is, what we may have left undone which contributed to the pain, or failed to help alleviate suffering. Silence ASSURANCE OF GRACE Comfort, comfort, my people, says the God of Justice and Compassion. You are forgiven your sin, And showered with grace to change your life, And to work toward the kingdom of the One who is to Come: New heavens and new earth, where righteousness is at home. Amen. THE GOSPEL READING Mark 1:1-8 A MEDITATION HYMN 204 Emmanuel, Emmanuel Call To Our Offering In struggle and in joy, God is faithful to us. We bring forth our offerings – our tithes, our treasures, our least coins – to demonstrate our faithfulness to God. OFFERTORY PRAYER OF DEDICATION* O Faithful One, accept these gifts of our hearts and hands. May they be multiplied and magnified as the living presence of Christ in the world. Amen. AN ORDER FOR COMMUNION THE INVITATION – HYMNAL 618 THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER AND THE LORD’S PRAYER THE WORDS OF INSTITUTION SHARING THE BREAD AND WINE THE PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION CLOSING HYMN 218* It Came Upon the Midnight Clear BENEDICTION AND BLESSING* Go forth into the world energized to seek signs of God’s future everywhere: especially in the unruly, unkempt, and persistent voices of Prophets in our midst: calling us to prepare the way in our lives and our world For the Holy One who is coming! Amen. BENEDICTION RESPONSE DISMISSAL Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God. POSTLUDE _________________________________________________________________________ Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading for the December 6 Service 200 Tell Out, My Soul Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord! Unnumbered blessings give my spirit voice; tender to me the promise of God's word; in God my Savior shall my heart rejoice. Tell out, my soul, the greatness of God's name! Make known God's might, who wondrous deeds has done; God's mercy sure, from age to age the same; God's holy name, the Lord, the mighty One. Tell out, my soul, the greatness of God's might! Powers and dominions lay their glory by; proud hearts and stubborn wills are put to flight, the hungry fed, the humble lifted high. Tell out, my soul, the glories of God's word! Firm is the promise and God's mercy sure. Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord to children’s children and forevermore! 204 Emmanuel, Emmanuel Emmanuel, Emmanuel, His name is called Emmanuel God with us, revealed in us His name is called Emmanuel 218 It Came upon the Midnight Clear It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old, from angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold: "Peace on the earth, good will to men, from heaven's all-gracious King." The world in solemn stillness lay, to hear the angels sing. Still through the cloven skies they come with peaceful wings unfurled, and still their heavenly music floats o'er all the weary world; above its sad and lowly plains, they bend on hovering wing, and ever o'er its Babel sounds the blessed angels sing And ye, beneath life's crushing load, whose forms are bending low, who toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow, look now! for glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing. O rest beside the weary road, and hear the angels sing! For lo! the days are hastening on, by prophet seen of old, when with the ever-circling years shall come the time foretold when peace shall over all the earth its ancient splendors fling, and the whole world send back the song which now the angels sing. _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________
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