Weekly Order of Worship

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 9, 2022

1/9/2022

First Sunday after Epiphany January 9, 2022

Prelude

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
One: Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Many: We have seen the star in the sky and have come to worship the Christ Child.
One: Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
Many: The star is resting over Bethlehem, and we come rejoicing, overwhelmed with joy.
All: Let us bring the gift of our hearts and the gift of our lives to worship our God of light and everlasting love.
Opening Prayer

“Journey of the Magi” by T.S. Elliot

Hymn*#254 We Three Kings

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 unrighteousness (1 John 1: 8-9).
One: Yet there are times when we are drawn away from your light.
Many: We may feel inadequate, unworthy, or less than perfect.
One: We forget that we are your children, your beloved creations,
and that you reach out for us even when we turn away from you.
All: Forgive us, O God.

Moment of Silence and Reflection

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

Scripture Reading
Psalm 29 Hymnal page    761
Gloria 70*
(Please stand)

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.

Old Testament Reading Isaiah 43: 1-7

The Gospel Luke 3: 15-22

Sermon:   Accepting God’s Love

Hymn #384 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the People
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Pastoral Prayer
LORD’S PRAYER (trespasses) Hymnal #895
PRAYER RESPONSE Hymnal #473
Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness
Make thy way plain before my face.
For it is thou, Lord, though, Lord only,
That makes me dwell in safety.
CALL TO OFFERINGDEDICATION OF GIFTS
HYMN*#103 Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
BENEDICTION AND BLESSING*
BENEDICTION RESPONSE

DISMISSAL

Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Postlude
*Some prayers for this service used with permission from umcdiscipleship.org and The United Church of Christ Worship Ways.

Announcements:

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 Pastor Michelle at 802-356-8046. Her email is: michelleunitedchurchofludlow@gmail.com. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.

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 Pastor Michelle Fountain. She can be reached either by phone or email as noted above.

Upcoming Meetings/Events
Executive Board Meeting Wednesday, January 26 7pm

Weekly Offerings
Please continue to send offerings to Anne Oakes at 145 Merrill Road Ludlow, VT 05149

Prayer Concerns: James Almond, Anthony Cuteri, Judy Edwards, Bridget Janney, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottcamp, Anne Matulonis, Bernie Stolp, Anne Oakes, George and Jan Bedard, Beth Almond, Rose Laird, and Nicole Fountain.

For the Zoom link, see information below:
United Church's Personal Zoom Meeting Room

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5169062557
Meeting ID: 516 906 2557
One tap mobile:   +16465588656,,5169062557#
Dial by your location: +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - August 29, 2021

8/27/2021

Please keep Laura Caravatt in your prayers as she recovers from injuries sustained in a fall.

We keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Anthony Cuteri, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Rick and Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Gavin Greenawalt, Bridget Janney, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Bernie Stolp, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Linda Thomson - birthday on September 7
_________________________________________________________________________

August 29, 2021 10:00 am

Service of Worship
FOURTEENTH 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* (In unison)

  In worship, we who are called "Christians" gather to express our unity
  with God and with each other. We are a community that spans the
  centuries, bound together by a covenant whose signature is baptism.
  In our worship today we renew our commitment to live in this covenant
  and we draw together a wider community of believers, including those
  who bore witness at our baptism. With ancient love that sustains and
  hope that nurtures our dreams, we worship God as faithful women and
  men, children and youth have done for years.

PRAYER OF INVOCATION* (in unison)

  Spirit of the living God, be in our midst with your baptism of power and
  your communion of love. We wait upon you in stillness and patience.
  Sweep over us with your Spirit, and change us by your love that we may
  labor and serve with you to bring beauty and healing to our broken world. Amen.

HYMN 660*   God is Here

PRAYER OF CONFESSION (in unison)
  Loving God you are Sovereign over our days. When the winds of faith
  blow strong, you are with us. When the burdens and storms of life
  seem oppressive you are with us. When a sense of calm purpose centers
  our lives of love, you are with us. Forgive us when we neglect to acknow-
  ledge your presence or stubbornly try to live without your guidance. We
  forget to count our blessings or practice our faith with intention.
  Great God, forgive us and grant us the wisdom to trust you, the courage
  to serve you. Amen.

SILENCE        (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

READING OF SCRIPTURE

PSALM 15 Hymnal, p. 747
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.

SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

  Invitation, Welcome and Address
  Questions and Assent
  Act of Baptism
  Closing Prayer

NEW TESTAMENT READING                                               Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

SERMON                                                                                   ‘Be Love’

HYMN 111 *        How Can We Name a Love

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
            The Lord be with you.
            And also with you.
            Let us pray.

LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”)

PRAYER RESPONSE                                   Hymnal, No. 473

  Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness;
  Make thy way plain before my face.
  For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only,
  That makest me dwell in safety

OFFERTORY SENTENCE

OFFERTORY

DOXOLOGY

  At the Presentation, Hymn 95*                         Old 100th
  Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
  Praise him, all creatures here below;
  Praise him above, you heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION* (in unison)

  O God, you have blessed us in mercy and wisdom, opening us to new
  birth and new beginnings. May the gifts you provide help all of us
  to accomplish the tasks for which you have called us. Bless what we
  receive and what we give to build a more just, peaceful and loving world
  in the name of Christ, the Redeemer. Amen.

HYMN 508 *                                                          Faith, While Trees Are Still in Blossom

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 August 29 Service

Hymn 660                                                                God is Here

God is here! As we your people meet to offer praise and prayer,
may we find in fuller measure what it is in Christ we share.
Here, as in the world around us, all our varied skills and arts
wait the coming of the Spirit into open minds and hearts.

Here are symbols to remind us of our lifelong need of grace;
here are table, font, and pulpit; here the cross has central place.
Here in honesty of preaching, here in silence, as in speech,
here, in newness and renewal, God the Spirit comes to each.

Here our children find a welcome in the Shepherd's flock and fold;
here as bread and wine are taken, Christ sustains us, as of old.
Here the servants of the Servant seek in worship to explore
what it means in daily living to believe and to adore.

Lord of all, of church and kingdom, in an age of change and doubt
keep us faithful to the gospel; help us work your purpose out.
Here, in this day's dedication, all we have to give, receive;
we, who cannot live without you, we adore you! We believe!

Hymn 111                                        How Can We Name a Love

How can we name a Love that wakens heart and mind,
indwelling all we know or think or do or seek or find?
Within our daily world, in every human face,
Love's echoes sound and God is found, hid in the commonplace.

If we awoke to life built on a rock of care
that asked no great reward but firm, assured, was simply there,
we can, with parents' names, describe, and thus adore,
Love unconfined, a father kind, a mother strong and sure.

When people share a task, and strength and skills unite
in projects old or new, to make or do with shared delight,
our Friend and Partner's will is better understood,
that all should share, create, and care, and know that life is good.

So in a hundred names, each day we all can meet
a presence, sensed and shown at work, at home, or in the street.
Yet every name we see, shines in a brighter sun:
In Christ alone is Love full grown and life and hope begun.

Hymn 508                Faith, While Trees Are Still in Blossom

Faith, while trees are still in blossom, plans the picking of the fruit;
faith can feel the thrill of harvest when the buds begin to sprout.

Long before the dawn is breaking, faith anticipates the sun.
Faith is eager for the daylight, for the work that must be done.

Long before the rains were coming, Noah went and built an ark.
Abraham, the lonely migrant, saw the light beyond the dark.

Faith, uplifted, tamed the water of the undivided sea,
and the people of the Hebrews found the path that made them free.

Faith believes that God is faithful: God will be what God will be!
Faith accepts the call, responding, "I am willing, Lord, send me."

PSALM 15

_________________________________________________________________________

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - August 22, 2021

8/20/2021

Celebrations

David and Beth Almond anniversary on August 27
_________________________________________________________________________

August 22, 2021 10:00 am

Service of Worship
THIRTEENTH 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.) (Words by Marty Haugen, copyright 1991)
Here in this place new light is streaming, now is the darkness vanished away
See in this space our fears and our dreamings brought here to You, O
God, in the light of this day
Gather us in, the lost and forsaken
Gather us in, the blind and the lame
Gather us in, the rich and the haughty
Gather us in, the proud and the strong
Gather us in and hold us forever
Gather us in and make us your own
Gather us in, all peoples together
Fire of Your love in our flesh and our bones.
Let us pray:

OPENING PRAYER* (in unison)
God of all people, gather us in this day, bind us with your love, and make
from us the Body of Christ that we may be the Body of Christ for the
world. For we pray these things in the precious name of Jesus Christ and
by the power of the Holy Sprit. AMEN.

HYMN 57* vs. 1-2, 4, 7 ‘O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing’
CONFESSION OF SIN:

ONE: Not one of us is without sin.
ALL: Not one!
ONE: Each of us has fallen short of the Glory of God.
ALL: Seen or unseen, all our sins are known by God.
ONE: Let us come before the Lord in a time of confession.
      (Silent reflection and Prayer of Confession)
ALL: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers.
ONE: Each of us has been betrayed, harmed, hurt, and sinned against.
ALL: Every one of us!
ONE: We know the pain and destruction of sin is deep and scarring. Out of our
hurt, we are often tempted to hurt others.
ALL: As we cry out for justice and healing, let us turn to the Lord in a
time of prayer.
      (Silent Prayer for Healing)
            ALL: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers.

DECLARATION OF THE GOOD NEWS:
ONE: Now, hear the Good News! While all people were still sinners, Christ
died for all. This is proof of God’s love for each of us. In the name of Jesus
Christ, you are forgiven!
            MANY: In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!
            ONE: In the name of Christ, may you find healing!
            Many: In the name of Christ, may you find healing!
            ONE: Praise be to God. AMEN.

READING OF SCRIPTURE

OLD TESTAMENT READING: Isaiah 9: 1-7

PSALM 84 p. 805 w/ refrain
GLORIA 70

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the
beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen. Amen.

NEW TESTAMENT READING                                                                           Mark 2: 1-17

SERMON                                                                                             ‘Can We Be Set Free?’

HYMN 375*                                                                               “There Is a Balm in Gilead’
JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
            The Lord be with you.
            And also with you.
            Let us pray.

LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”)

PRAYER RESPONSE                                   Hymnal, No. 473

Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness;
Make thy way plain before my face.
For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only,
That makest me dwell in safety

OFFERTORY SENTENCE

OFFERTORY

DOXOLOGY

At the Presentation, Hymn 95*                         Old 100th
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise him, all creatures here below;
Praise him above, you heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION*

HYMN 480*                                                            “O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go”

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 August 22 Service

HYMN 57                            O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing
                                                                                    vs. 1-2, 4, 7

O for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer's praise,
the glories of my God and King, the triumphs of his grace!

My gracious Master and my God, assist me to proclaim,
to spread through all the earth abroad the honors of thy name.

He breaks the power of canceled sin, he sets the prisoner free;
his blood can make the foulest clean; his blood availed for me.

In Christ, your head, you then shall know, shall feel your sins forgiven;
anticipate your heaven below, and own that love is heaven.

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 480                           O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go

O Love that wilt not let me go, I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe, that in thine ocean depths
its flow may richer, fuller be.

O Light that followest all my way, I yield my flickering torch to thee;
my heart restores its borrowed ray, that in thy sunshine's blaze
its day may brighter, fairer be.

O Joy that seekest me through pain, I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow thru the rain, and feel the promise is not vain,
that morn shall tearless be.

O Cross that liftest up my head, I dare not ask to fly from thee;
I lay in dust life's glory dead, and from the ground there blossoms
red life that shall endless be.

PSALM 84

_________________________________________________________________________

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - August 15, 2021

8/13/2021

Please keep Laura Caravatt in your prayers while she recovers from injuries sustained in a fall.

Please keep Gavin Greenawalt in your prayers in his struggle with Long Covid.

Please keep the family of Carolyn Gauthier in your prayers.

We keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Anthony Cuteri, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Rick and Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Bridget Janney, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Bernie Stolp, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

David and Beth Almond anniversary on August 27
_________________________________________________________________________

August 15, 2021 10:00 A.M.

SERVICE OF WORSHIP
Twelfth 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

  LEADER
  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)

  PEOPLE
  And also with you.

CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.)

  LEADER   Be still and know that God is.

  PEOPLE   God was, also, in the beginning.

  LEADER   And when all human striving has ceased, God will still be.

  PEOPLE   From everlasting to everlasting, God is God and alone
            is worthy to be worshiped.

  LEADER   Let us sing praise to our God

HYMN 463*                                                           Lord, Speak to Me

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.

  Holy One, we confess that we continue conflicts in our holy human
  family, even though we know they cause unspeakable suffering.
  Like David, who wept for Absalom, his lost son.
  We are filled with sorrow for all who suffer or even die as a result of
  our conflicts, and yet still we do not find the ways to peace.
  And, O God, we know we have done or said things that we should not
  have done of said and have not done or said things we ought to have
  done or said.
  Forgive us

SILENCE        (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

  Remember that we are chosen by Christ, who reconciles us to God. Christ
  presents us holy and blameless before God. May we continue in the faith,
  remain stable and steadfast and not shift from the hope of the gospel which
  we have heard. For in Christ, we are forgiven. Amen

READING OF SCRIPTURE

PSALM 34:9–14                                                                                         Hymnal, page 770

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 NEW TESTAMENT LESSONS           Ephesians 5:15–20
                              John 6:51–58

SERMON                                                                                 “Thoughts on Two Concerns”

HYMN 626*                                                                         Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

            The Lord be with you.
            And also with you.
            Let us pray.

LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”)

PRAYER RESPONSE                                   Hymnal, No. 473

  Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness;
  Make thy way plain before my face.
  For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only,
  That makest me dwell in safety

OFFERTORY SENTENCE

OFFERTORY

DOXOLOGY

  At the Presentation, Hymn 95*                         Old 100th
  Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
  Praise him, all creatures here below;
  Praise him above, you heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION*

HYMN 369*                                                       Blessed Assurance

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 August 15 Service

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 626*                                    Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent

Let all mortal flesh keep silence, and with fear and trembling stand;
ponder nothing earthly-minded, for with blessing in his hand,
Christ our God to earth descendeth, our full homage to demand.

King of kings, yet born of Mary, as of old on earth he stood,
Lord of lords, in human vesture, in the body and the blood;
he will give to all the faithful his own self for heavenly food.

Rank on rank the host of heaven spreads its vanguard on the way,
as the Light of light descendeth from the realms of endless day,
that the powers of hell may vanish as the darkness clears away.

At his feet the six-winged seraph, cherubim, with sleepless eye,
veil their faces to the presence, as with ceaseless voice they cry:
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Lord Most High!

HYMN 369*                                                           Blessed Assurance

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God, born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.
Refrain:
This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long;
this is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight, visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
angels descending bring from above echoes of mercy, whispers of love.
(Refrain)

Perfect submission, all is at rest; I in my Savior am happy and blest,
watching and waiting, looking above, filled with his goodness, lost in his love.
(Refrain)

PSALM 34
verses 9 - 14
Response 1

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - August 8, 2021

8/6/2021

Please keep Gavin Greenawalt in your prayers in his struggle with Long Covid.

Please keep the family of Carolyn Gauthier in your prayers.

Please keep Bernie Stolp in your prayers.

We keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Anthony Cuteri, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Rick and Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Bridget Janney, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Kathy and Rick Doyle anniversary on August 13
_________________________________________________________________________

August 8, 2021 10:00 A.M.
SERVICE OF WORSHIP
Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the August 8 Service

426                 Behold a Broken World

Behold a broken world, we pray, where want and war increase,
and grant us, Lord, in this our day, the ancient dream of peace:

A dream of swords to sickles bent, of spears to scythe and spade,
the weapons of our warfare spent, a world of peace remade;

Where every battle-flag is furled and every trumpet stilled,
where wars shall cease in all the world, a waking dream fulfilled.

No force of arms shall there prevail nor justice cease its sway;
nor shall their loftiest visions fail the dreamers of the day.

O Prince of peace, who died to save, a lost world to redeem,
and rose in triumph from the grave, behold our waking dream.

Bring, Lord, your better world to birth, your kingdom, love's domain;
where peace with God, and peace on earth, and peace eternal reign.

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 life 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.

368                 My Hope Is Built

My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name.
Refrain:
On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand;
all other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on his unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil.
(Refrain)

His oath, his covenant, his blood supports me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way, he then is all my hope and stay.
(Refrain)

When he shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in him be found!
Dressed in his righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne!
(Refrain)

PSALM 130

_________________________________________________________________________

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - August 1, 2021

7/30/2021

Please keep the family of Carolyn Gauthier in your prayers.

Please keep Bernie Stolp in your prayers.

Please continue to keep Bridget Janney and Anthony Cuteri in your prayers.

We keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Rick and Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Kathy and Rick Doyle anniversary on August 13

Annual Church Picnic

The Church Picnic will take place Today, August 1, at the home of the Thomsons
following our church service. This is a pot-luck event, so get out your lucky pot and cook your favorite 'afternoon by the lake' dish.

Directions to the Thomson’s House

Take route 103 and 100 North out of Ludlow. At the stop light about 2 miles north of town turn right towards Killington. Route 103 goes straight on to Rutland. Take Route 100 N for ¾ of a mile. Turn right onto East Lake Rd. Take East Lake Rd. for an additional ¾ mile and turn left onto Thomson Dr. The power lines follow the road down toward the lake. There is also a sign that says Mary Lou’s Mistake at the top of the drive. We are the dark brown house at the end of the road. You may park in front of the garage, in the turn around AND at the house next door to our house. You may also park on the side of the road if necessary.
_________________________________________________________________________

August 1, 2021 10:00 A.M.
SERVICE OF WORSHIP
Tenth Sunday After Pentecost
Communion Sunday

PRELUDE
  (All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in
  preparation for the worship service which follows.)

GREETING

  The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of
  the Holy Spirit be with you all.        (2 Corinthians 13: 13)

  And also with you.

CALL TO WORSHIP*          (Please stand.)

  We gather today, seeking the peace Christ gives.
  We gather, despite many a conflict, many a doubt, within our souls.
  We gather, longing for the breath of God’s spirit to give us courage
  and renewal.
  Come, Christ Jesus, be our guest. Bless us through the power of your
  Spirit and give us the courage to live as your disciples day by day.

HYMN 117*                                                                        O God, Our Help in Ages Past

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

  If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

  If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins
  and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.          (I John 1: 8-9)

  Let us confess our sins before God and one another.

  God of compassion have mercy upon us as we confess our sin. In Christ
  you bring light, yet we still dwell in darkness. Your word offers guidance,
  but we choose to ignore your counsel. You promise renewal, but we heed
  not your wisdom. We bow to the gods of this world, choosing to hide
  from your truth. Speak to us again from beyond the clouds of our
  sinfulness; dazzle us anew with the light of Christ’s love; restore and
  forgive us….

SILENCE        (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

  Hear the good news.   God is light, and in God there is no darkness. “If we say
  we have fellowship with God while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not
  live according to the truth; but if we walk in the light, as God is in the light, we
  have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, God’s Son, cleanses
  us from all sin.” God is faithful and just, and Jesus Christ forgives us our sin.

READING OF SCRIPTURE

THE OLD TESTAMENT READING                                                           Leviticus 14: 10-11

PSALM 119                                                                                                 Hymnal, page 840
                                                                                                                        Response 3

GLORIA 70*

  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
  and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the
  beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
  world without end. Amen. Amen.

THE GOSPEL LESSON                                                                                Luke 17: 11-19

SERMON                                                                 “Only 1 of 10”

Hymn 430*                                                            O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

PRAYER RESPONSE                                                           Hymnal, No. 473

  Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness;
  Make thy way plain before my face.
  For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only,
  That makest me dwell in safety.

OFFERTORY SENTENCE

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

HYMN 620*                                                                                    One Bread, One Body

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

INVITATION

BLESSING OF THE ELEMENTS

THE LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD AND LIFTING THE CUP

THE COMMUNION

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

            Let us give thanks.

  Bountiful God, we give you thanks that you have refreshed us at your table
  by granting us the presence of Christ. Strengthen our faith, increase our
  love for one another, and send us forth into the world in courage and
  peace, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

HYMN 369 *   Blessed Assurance

BENEDICTION

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

POSTLUDE
_________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the August 1 Service

HYMN 117*                        O God, Our Help in Ages Past

O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come,
our shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home!

Under the shadow of thy throne, still may we dwell secure;
sufficient is thine arm alone, and our defense is sure.

Before the hills in order stood, or earth received her frame,
from everlasting, thou art God, to endless years the same.

A thousand ages, in thy sight, are like an evening gone;
short as the watch that ends the night, before the rising sun.

Time, like an ever rolling stream, bears all who breathe away;
they fly forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day.

O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come;
be thou our guide while life shall last, and our eternal home.

HYMN 430*            O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee

O Master, let me walk with thee in lowly paths of service free;
tell me thy secret; help me bear the strain of toil, the fret of care.

Help me the slow of heart to move by some clear, winning word of love;
teach me the wayward feet to stay, and guide them in the homeward way.

Teach me thy patience; still with thee in closer, dearer company,
in work that keeps faith sweet and strong, in trust that triumphs over wrong;

In hope that sends a shining ray far down the future's broadening way,
in peace that only thou canst give, with thee, O Master, let me live.

HYMN 620*                        One Bread, One Body

(Refrain)
One bread, one body, One Lord of all,
One cup of blessing which we bless.
And we, though many, Throughout the earth,
We are one body in this one Lord.

Gentile or Jew, Servant or free,
Woman or man, no more
(Refrain)

Many the gifts, Many the works,
One in the Lord of all.
(Refrain)

Grain for the fields, Scattered and grown,
Gathered to one, for all.
(Refrain)

HYMN 369 *                                   Blessed Assurance

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God, born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.
(Refrain)
This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long;
this is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight, visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
angels descending bring from above echoes of mercy, whispers of love.
(Refain)

Perfect submission, all is at rest; I in my Savior am happy and blest,
watching and waiting, looking above, filled with his goodness, lost in his love.
(Refrain)

PSALM 119          Hymnal, page 840, Response 3

_________________________________________________________________________

July 22nd, 2021

7/22/2021

Please keep Bernie Stolp in your prayers.

Please continue to keep Bridget Janney and Anthony Cuteri in your prayers.

We keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Rick and Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Sheila Kafer, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Otto and Dalene Behrens’ anniversary on July 27
Laura Lienhard’s birthday on July 28

Annual Church Picnic

The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on
Sunday, August 1, following our church service. This is a pot-luck event, so get out your lucky pot and cook your favorite 'afternoon by the lake' dish.
_________________________________________________________________________

July 25, 2021 10:00 am

Service of Worship
NINTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

  PRELUDE
(All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in
  preparation for the worship service which follows.)

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND GREETING

  The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion
  of the Holy Spirit be with you all.       (2 Corinthians 13: 13)

  And also with you.

CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.)

HYMN 185*                                                                       When Morning Gilds the Skies
                          Original words, Psalter Hymnal, 1987

When morning gilds the sky, our hearts awaking cry: May Jesus Christ be praised!
In all our work and prayer we ask his loving care: May Jesus Christ be praised!

To God, the Word on high, the hosts of angels cry: May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let mortals too upraise their voices in hymns of praise: May Jesus Christ be praised!

Let earth's wide circle round in joyful notes resound: May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let air and sea and sky from depth to height reply: May Jesus Christ be praised!

Then let us join to sing to Christ, our loving King: May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this the eternal song through all the ages long: May Jesus Christ be praised!

OPENING PRAYER*

CONFESSION OF SIN:
  ONE: John Newton, slave ship captain and confessed murderer once
  penned these words:
  ALL: “Although my memory's fading, I remember two things very clearly:
  I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior.”
  ONE: John Newton, slave ship captain and confessed murderer also penned
  these words:
  ALL: Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me.
  I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see.
  ONE: He wrote these words as he was going blind in body, but growing
  ever-more-able to see in spirit. We are all caught in this tension.
  ALL: We each drift between saint and sinner, struggling to be who God
  has created us to be in Christ Jesus.
  ONE: And it’s not just the sins we have committed. We struggle with the sins
  against us, too.
  ALL: But Christ is our healing! Christ is our restoration! Christ is our
  rebirth! Christ is our salvation!
  ONE: So, we leave at the feet of Christ the sins we have committed that He
  may make all things new, including us.
  (Silent Prayer of Confession)
  ALL: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers.
  ONE: We leave in the hands of Christ the sins that have been committed against
  us, and trust that God will free us from the chains of vengeance, pain, anger,
  and betrayal one day.
  (Silent Prayer of Confession)
  ALL: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers.

DECLARATION OF THE GOOD NEWS:
  ONE: Now, hear the Good News! While we were yet sinners, Christ died for
  us. This is proof of God’s love for us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!
  ALL: In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! AMEN! ALLELUIA!

READING OF SCRIPTURE

PSALM 65: 1-13                                                                                Hymnal, pages 789 - 90

GLORIA 70

  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
  and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the
  beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
  world without end. Amen. Amen.

NEW TESTAMENT READING                                                                    Romans 1: 18-23

SERMON "God’s Testimony of Creation"

HYMN 92*                                                                                  For the Beauty of the Earth

  REFRAIN: Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sa-cri-fice of praise.

  (Folliett Sandford Pierpoint originally wrote this hymn for use during the Communion
  of the High Anglican Church. The original refrain "Christ, our God, to thee we
  raise; This our sacrifice of praise" was meant to mirror the portrayal of
  Christ's ultimate sacrifice -- just as the host would be lifted during the communion
  as a token of God's gift to us, a "sacrifice of praise" would be lifted in return.
  Later editions of the text emphasize the thanksgiving aspect of the verses.
  --Greg Scheer, 1995, Hymnary.com)

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

            The Lord be with you.
            And also with you.
            Let us pray.

LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”)

PRAYER RESPONSE                                   Hymnal, No. 473

  Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness;
  Make thy way plain before my face.
  For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only,
  That makest me dwell in safety

OFFERTORY SENTENCE

OFFERTORY

DOXOLOGY

  At the Presentation, Hymn 95*                         Old 100th
  Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
  Praise him, all creatures here below;
  Praise him above, you heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION*

HYMN 189*                                                                                                Fairest Lord Jesus

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING*

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

DISMISSAL

            Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
            Thanks be to God

POSTLUDE

* All who are able may stand.
_________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the July 25 Service

HYMN 185*                       When Morning Gilds the Skies
Original words, Psalter Hymnal, 1987

When morning gilds the sky, our hearts awaking cry: May Jesus Christ be praised!
In all our work and prayer we ask his loving care: May Jesus Christ be praised!

To God, the Word on high, the hosts of angels cry: May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let mortals too upraise their voices in hymns of praise: May Jesus Christ be praised!

Let earth's wide circle round in joyful notes resound: May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let air and sea and sky from depth to height reply: May Jesus Christ be praised!

Then let us join to sing to Christ, our loving King: May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this the eternal song through all the ages long: May Jesus Christ be praised!

HYMN 92*                           For the Beauty of the Earth

REFRAIN: Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sa-cri-fice of praise.

(Folliett Sandford Pierpoint originally wrote this hymn for use during the Communion of the High Anglican Church. The original refrain "Christ, our God, to thee we raise; This our sacrifice of praise" was meant to mirror the portrayal of Christ's ultimate sacrifice -- just as the host would be lifted during the communion as a token of God's gift to us, a "sacrifice of praise" would be lifted in return. Later editions of the text emphasize the thanksgiving aspect of the verses. --Greg Scheer, 1995, Hymnary.com)

For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies,
for the love which from our birth over and around us lies;
Refrain:
Christ, our God, to thee we raise;
This our sa-cri-fice of praise.

For the beauty of each hour of the day and of the night,
hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon, and stars of light;
(Refrain)

For the joy of ear and eye, for the heart and mind's delight,
for the mystic harmony linking sense to sound and sight;
(Refrain)

For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child,
friends on earth and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild;
(Refrain)

For thy church, that evermore lifteth holy hands above,
offering up on every shore her pure sacrifice of love;
(Refrain)

For thyself, best Gift Divine, to the world so freely given,
for that great, great love of thine, peace on earth, and joy in heaven:
(Refrain)

HYMN 189*                                    Fairest Lord Jesus

Fairest Lord Jesus, ruler of all nature,
O thou of God and man the Son,
thee will I cherish, thee will I honor,
thou, my soul's glory, joy, and crown.

Fair are the meadows, fairer still the woodlands,
robed in the blooming garb of spring:
Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer,
who makes the woeful heart to sing.

Fair is the sunshine, fairer still the moonlight,
and all the twinkling starry host:
Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer
than all the angels heaven can boast.

Beautiful Savior! Lord of all the nations!
Son of God and Son of Man!
Glory and honor, praise, adoration,
now and forevermore be thine.

PSALM 65

_________________________________________________________________________

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - July 18, 2021

7/16/2021

CHURCH SERVICES
at the
UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW

are shared ELECTRONICALLY
Contact unitedchurch@tds.net
or call 802-228-4211
for more information.
_________________________________________________________________________

If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us.
The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am.
We follow procedures to minimize the risk of exposure.
Please read and follow those procedures for the safety of all.

If you are not able to attend in person, a simultaneous Zoom stream is available.
Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get Zoom access.
_________________________________________________________________________
ANNOUNCEMENTS

We wish to thank Jeremy Schrauf for leading our worship service this morning.

A Warm Welcome to All Visitors

If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net.

Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home

It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net.

Upcoming Meetings/Events

Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm

Weekly Offerings

Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending July 11, 2021 were $635. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks).

Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149.

Altar Guild

Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services.

Prayer Concerns

Please continue to keep Bridget Janney in your prayers, and add
Tony Cuteri to your prayers.

We ask that you keep Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila continues recovery from complications of her back surgery. Cards may be sent to them at
173 Hesperus Ave., Magnolia, MA 01930.

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Doyle, Rick Doyle, Mindy Doyle,
Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Matulonis, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Jim and Sandy Peplau celebrate an anniversary on July 18

Annual Church Picnic

The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on
Sunday, August 1, following our church service.

As always, this is a pot-luck event, so get out your lucky pot
and cook your favorite 'afternoon by the lake' dish.

A NOTE ABOUT COFFEE HOUR

At a recent Church Board Meeting it was decided that only disposable plates, cups and utensils will be used for food service. It was noticed that clean-up has too often been left to be done by a deacon or trustee assisting at the service. This is not fair to those individuals, who have already taken on extra obligations to make the church services happen. To reduce the work necessary at clean-up, only disposable items will be used.
_________________________________________________________________________

July 18, 2021 10:00 am

Service of Worship
EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

PRELUDE
(All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in
  preparation for the worship service which follows.)

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND GREETING

  The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion
  of the Holy Spirit be with you all.       (2 Corinthians 13: 13)

  And also with you.

CALL TO WORSHIP* (Please stand.)

  LEADER
  Who is it we seek as we come to this place?

  PEOPLE
  We seek our God and for God’s guidance in our lives.

  LEADER
  And to what purpose do we seek God’s guidance?

  PEOPLE
  We seek to discern God’s intent for us in all that we do.

  LEADER
  Let us sing praise to our God.

HYMN 430*                                               O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee

OPENING PRAYER*

CONFESSION OF SIN

  If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

  If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins
  and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.          (I John 1: 8-9)

  Let us confess our sins before God and one another.

  Faithful God, we rejoice that you have sent your promised Christ. And yet,
  O God, we confess that we are still not ready for Christ’s coming; we
  are reluctant to live as if the whole earth were your domain. We know the
  story – the shepherds, the angels, and the magi – but we don’t fully
  understand what it means. Awaken us to your Spirit, let Christ’s birth
  make a difference in our lives and in the lives of our brothers and
  sisters everywhere and grant us your peace . . ..

SILENCE        (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

  Remember that we are chosen by Christ, who reconciles us to God. Christ
  presents us holy and blameless before God. May we continue in the faith,
  remain stable and steadfast and not shift from the hope of the gospel which
  we have heard. For in Christ we are forgiven. Amen

READING OF SCRIPTURE

PSALM 89: 1-4, 19-37                                            Hymnal, pages 807 and 808
Response 2
GLORIA 70

  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
  and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the
  beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
  world without end. Amen. Amen.

THE OLD TESTAMENT LESSON                                            2 Samuel 7: 1-14a

SERMON                                                      “Discerning God’s Will”

HYMN 375*                                                           There is a Balm in Gilead

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

            The Lord be with you.
            And also with you.
            Let us pray.

LORD’S PRAYER (“trespasses”)

PRAYER RESPONSE                                   Hymnal, No. 473

  Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness;
  Make thy way plain before my face.
  For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only,
  That makest me dwell in safety

OFFERTORY SENTENCE

OFFERTORY

DOXOLOGY

  At the Presentation, Hymn 95*                         Old 100th
  Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
  Praise him, all creatures here below;
  Praise him above, you heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION*

HYMN 474*                                               Precious Lord, Take My Hand

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING*

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

DISMISSAL

            Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
            Thanks be to God

POSTLUDE
  * All who are able may stand.
_________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the July 18 Service

HYMN 430*                       Master, Let Me Walk with Thee

O Master, let me walk with thee in lowly paths of service free;
tell me thy secret; help me bear the strain of toil, the fret of care.

Help me the slow of heart to move by some clear, winning word of love;
teach me the wayward feet to stay, and guide them in the homeward way.

Teach me thy patience; still with thee in closer, dearer company,
in work that keeps faith sweet and strong, in trust that triumphs over wrong;

In hope that sends a shining ray far down the future's broadening way,
in peace that only thou canst give, with thee, O Master, let me live.

HYMN 375*                                         There is a Balm in Gilead

Refrain:
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
there is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.

Some times I feel discouraged, and think my work’s in vain.
But then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again.
(Refrain)

Don't ever feel discouraged, for Jesus is your friend,
and if you look for knowledge he'll ne'er refuse to lend.
(Refrain)
If you can’t preach like Peter, if you can’t pray like Paul,
just tell the love of Jesus, and say he died for all.
(Refrain)

HYMN 474*                                Precious Lord, Take My Hand

Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I’m weak, I’m lone,
Through the storm, through the night Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When my way grows drear precious Lord linger near
When my light is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When the darkness appears and the night draws near
And the day is past and gone
At the river I stand Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

PSALM 89

_________________________________________________________________________

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - July 11, 2021

7/9/2021

CHURCH SERVICES
at the
UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW

are shared ELECTRONICALLY
Contact unitedchurch@tds.net
or call 802-228-4211
for more information.
_________________________________________________________________________

If you are comfortable attending in person, please join us.
The doors open at 9:45 am, and worship begins at 10:00 am.
We follow procedures to minimize the risk of exposure.
Please read and follow those procedures for the safety of all.

If you are not able to attend in person, a simultaneous Zoom stream is available.
Send an email to unitedchurch@tds.net to get Zoom access.
_________________________________________________________________________
ANNOUNCEMENTS

We wish to thank Jack Mahoney for leading our worship service this morning.

A Warm Welcome to All Visitors

If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net.

Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home

It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net.

Upcoming Meetings/Events

Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm

Weekly Offerings

Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending June 27, 2021 were $385. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks).

Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149.

Altar Guild

Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services.

Prayer Concerns

Please keep Anne Matalonis in your prayers for a speedy recovery from the surgery for her broken ankle. Cards may be sent to her c/o The Pines, 99 Allen Street, Rutland, VT 05701.

We ask that you keep Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila continues recovery from complications of her back surgery. Cards may be sent to them at
173 Hesperus Ave., Magnolia, MA 01930.

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Doyle, Rick Doyle, Mindy Doyle,
Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Jim and Sandy Peplau celebrate an anniversary on July 18

Annual Church Picnic

The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on
Sunday, August 1, following our church service.

A NOTE ABOUT COFFEE HOUR

At a recent Church Board Meeting it was decided that only disposable plates, cups and utensils will be used for food service. It was noticed that clean-up has too often been left to be done by a deacon or trustee assisting at the service. This is not fair to those individuals, who have already taken on extra obligations to make the church services happen. To reduce the work necessary at clean-up, only disposable items will be used.

Seeking Caregiver Help
I am seeking an individual or several individuals who are willing to spend a couple hours or an afternoon caring for Ginny as it is not safe to leave her alone. This would provide an important break for me as primary caregiver.

Since the beginning of the year we have engaged an RN for an afternoon once a week with very beneficial outcomes. But she is leaving soon. I could use help roughly once or twice a week.

I am casting a net for possibilities. Remuneration is available. If you are interested or have a neighbor or contact you think might be a possibility, including a responsible high school student, please let me know.

You can reach me at 802-228-6282.

Bob Kottkamp

ECCO News

Jack Mahoney, the intern sponsored by the ECCO group, is leading a faith formation book discussion using Henri Nouwen’s book “Spiritual Direction”. It is planned for Wednesdays at 7 pm on zoom or in person or a combination. It will run each week through July and August.
_________________________________________________________________________

July 11, 2021 10:00 am

Service of Worship
SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the July 11 Service

HYMN 496*                                        Sweet Hour of Prayer

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
that calls me from a world of care,
and bids me at my Father's throne
make all my wants and wishes known.
In seasons of distress and grief,
my soul has often found relief,
and oft escaped the tempter's snare
by thy return, sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
the joys I feel, the bliss I share
of those whose anxious spirits burn
with strong desires for thy return!
With such I hasten to the place
where God my Savior shows his face,
and gladly take my station there,
and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
thy wings shall my petition bear
to him whose truth and faithfulness
engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since he bids me seek his face,
believe his word, and trust his grace,
I'll cast on him my every care,
and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!

HYMN 404*                              Every Time I Feel the Spirit

Refrain:
Every time I feel the spirit moving in my heart, I will pray.
Yes, every time I feel the spirit moving in my heart, I will pray.

Upon the mountain, my Lord spoke, out his mouth came fire and smoke.
All around me looks so shine, ask my Lord if all was mine. (Refrain)

Jordan river runs right cold, chills the body, not the soul.
Ain't but one train on this track, runs to heaven and right back. (Refrain)

HYMN 707*                                           Hymn of Promise

In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree;
in cocoons, a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free!
In the cold and snow of winter there's a spring that waits to be,
unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

There's a song in every silence, seeking word and melody;
there's a dawn in every darkness bringing hope to you and me.
From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery,
unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity;
in our doubt there is believing; in our life, eternity.
In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory,
unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

PSALM 85

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - July 4, 2021

7/2/2021

We wish to thank Rev. Bruce Bishop for leading our worship service this morning.

A Warm Welcome to All Visitors

If any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net.

Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home

It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the church office at 802-228-4211 or unitedchurch@tds.net.

Upcoming Meetings/Events

Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, August 25, 7:00 pm

Weekly Offerings

Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending June 27, 2021 were $245. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks).

Please continue to mail your offerings to our Receiver of Offerings, Anne Oakes, at 145 Merrill Road, Ludlow, Vermont 05149.

Altar Guild

Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services.

Prayer Concerns

Please keep Anne Matalonis in your prayers for a speedy recovery from the surgery for her broken ankle. Cards may be sent to her c/o The Pines, 99 Allen Street, Rutland, VT 05701.

We ask that you keep Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila continues recovery from complications of her back surgery. Cards may be sent to them at
173 Hesperus Ave., Magnolia, MA 01930.

Also keep Bridget Janney in your prayers.

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

James Almond, Jean Eggleston, Kathy Doyle, Rick Doyle, Mindy Doyle, Judy Edwards, Carolyn Gauthier, Susan Kneebone, Ginny Kottkamp, Anne Oakes, Hannah Sotak, Evelyn Tucker, Herb Van Guilder, and Evelyn Verro.

Celebrations

Janet and Ralph Pace celebrate an anniversary on July 8
Jim and Sandy Peplau celebrate an anniversary on July 18

Annual Church Picnic

The Church Picnic will take place at the home of the Thomsons on
Sunday, August 1, following our church service.

A NOTE ABOUT COFFEE HOUR

At a recent Church Board Meeting it was decided that only disposable plates, cups and utensils will be used for food service. It was noticed that clean-up has too often been left to be done by a deacon or trustee assisting at the service. This is not fair to those individuals, who have already taken on extra obligations to make the church services happen. To reduce the work necessary at clean-up, only disposable items will be used.

Seeking Caregiver Help

I am seeking an individual or several individuals who are willing to spend a couple hours or an afternoon caring for Ginny as it is not safe to leave her alone. This would provide an important break for me as primary caregiver.

Since the beginning of the year we have engaged an RN for an afternoon once a week with very beneficial outcomes. But she is leaving soon. I could use help roughly once or twice a week.

I am casting a net for possibilities. Remuneration is available. If you are interested or have a neighbor or contact you think might be a possibility, including a responsible high school student, please let me know.

You can reach me at 802-228-6282.

Bob Kottkamp

ECCO News

Jack Mahoney, the intern sponsored by the ECCO group, will be leading our worship service next Sunday. He has also proposed leading a faith formation book discussion using Henri Nouwen’s book “Spiritual Direction”. It is planned for Wednesdays at 7 pm on zoom or in person or a combination...remember that this is a work in progress! It will likely begin Thursday the 8th and would run each week through July and August.
_________________________________________________________________________

July 4, 2021 10:00 A.M.
SERVICE OF WORSHIP
Sixth Sunday After Pentecost
Independence Day
Communion Sunday

PRELUDE
(All are encouraged to use the prelude as a quiet time of meditation in
  preparation for the worship service which follows.)

GREETING

  The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion
  of the Holy Spirit be with you all.        (2 Corinthians 13: 13)

  And also with you.

CALL TO WORSHIP*          (Please stand.)

  We gather today, seeking the peace Christ gives.
  We gather, despite many a conflict, many a doubt, within our souls.
  We gather, longing for the breath of God’s spirit to give us courage
  and renewal.
  Come, Christ Jesus, be our guest. Bless us through the power of your
  Spirit and give us the courage to live as your disciples day by day.

HYMN 92*                                                                           For the Beauty of the Earth

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

  If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

  If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins
  and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.          (I John 1: 8-9)

  Let us confess our sins before God and one another.

  God of compassion have mercy upon us as we confess our sin. In Christ
  you bring light, yet we still dwell in darkness. Your word offers guidance,
  but we choose to ignore your counsel. You promise renewal, but we heed
  not your wisdom. We bow to the gods of this world, choosing to hide
  from your truth. Speak to us again from beyond the clouds of our
  sinfulness; dazzle us anew with the light of Christ’s love; restore and
  forgive us….

SILENCE        (Silence may be observed for reflection and prayer.)

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

  Hear the good news.   God is light, and in God there is no darkness. “If we
  say we have fellowship with God while we walk in darkness, we lie and do
  not live according to the truth; but if we walk in the light, as God is in the light,
  we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, God’s Son,
  cleanses us from all sin.” God is faithful and just, and Jesus Christ forgives
  us our sin.

READING OF SCRIPTURE

THE OLD TESTAMENT READING                                                           Joshua 1: 6-9

PSALM 8                                                                                                      Hymnal, page 743
                                                                                                                        Response 2

GLORIA 70*

  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
  and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the
  beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
  world without end. Amen. Amen.

THE GOSPEL LESSON                                                                                Matthew 5: 13-16

SERMON                                                                 “Saltiness”

Hymn 413*                                                                       A Charge to Keep I Have

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

PRAYER RESPONSE                                                           Hymnal, No. 473

  Lead me, Lord, lead me in thy righteousness;
  Make thy way plain before my face.
  For it is thou, Lord, thou, Lord only,
  That makest me dwell in safety.

OFFERTORY SENTENCE

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

HYMN 624*                                                                                    Bread of the World

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

INVITATION

BLESSING OF THE ELEMENTS

THE LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD AND LIFTING THE CUP

THE COMMUNION

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

            Let us give thanks.

  Bountiful God, we give you thanks that you have refreshed us at your table
  by granting us the presence of Christ. Strengthen our faith, increase our
  love for one another, and send us forth into the world in courage and
  peace, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

HYMN 500 *                                               Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart

BENEDICTION

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

POSTLUDE
_________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the July 4 Service

HYMN 92                             For the Beauty of the Earth

For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies,
for the love which from our birth over and around us lies;
(Refrain)
Lord of all, to thee we raisethis our hymn of grateful praise.

For the beauty of each hour of the day and of the night,
hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon, and stars of light;
(Refrain)

For the joy of ear and eye, for the heart and mind's delight,
for the mystic harmony linking sense to sound and sight;
(Refrain)

For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child,
friends on earth and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild;
(Refrain)

For thy church, that evermore lifteth holy hands above,
offering up on every shore her pure sacrifice of love;
(Refrain)

For thyself, best Gift Divine, to the world so freely given,
for that great, great love of thine, peace on earth, and joy in heaven:
(Refrain)

HYMN 413                           A Charge to Keep I Have

A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify,
a never-dying soul to save, and fit it for the sky.

To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill;
O may it all my powers engage to do my Master's will!

Arm me with jealous care, as in thy sight to live,
and oh, thy servant, Lord, prepare a strict account to give!

Help me to watch and pray, and on thyself rely,
assured, if I my trust betray, I shall forever die.

HYMN 624                                       Bread of the World

Bread of the world in mercy broken,
wine of the soul in mercy shed,
by whom the words of life were spoken,
and in whose death our sins are dead:

Look on the heart by sorrow broken,
look on the tears by sinners shed;
and be thy feast to us the token
that by thy grace our souls are fed.

HYMN 500              Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart

Spirit of God, descend upon my heart;
wean it from earth; through all its pulses move;
stoop to my weakness, mighty as thou art,
and make me love thee as I ought to love.

I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
no sudden rending of the veil of clay,
no angel visitant, no opening skies;
but take the dimness of my soul away.

Hast thou not bid me love thee, God and King?
All, all thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind.
I see thy cross; there teach my heart to cling.
O let me seek thee, and O let me find!

Teach me to feel that thou art always nigh;
teach me the struggles of the soul to bear.
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh,
teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.

Teach me to love thee as thine angels love,
one holy passion filling all my frame;
the kindling of the heaven-descended Dove,
my heart an altar, and thy love the flame.

PSALM 8                 Hymnal, page 743, Response 2

_________________________________________________________________________

<<Previous