Blog Posts

6/24/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - June 27, 2021

CHURCH SERVICES
at the
UNITED CHURCH of LUDLOW

are shared ELECTRONICALLY
Contact [email protected]
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 [email protected] to get Zoom access.
_________________________________________________________________________
ANNOUNCEMENTS
We wish to thank Hannah Sotak for leading our worship service this morning. Hannah invites anyone who has a topic or scripture they would like to hear a sermon on to please email her this week. Her email address is [email protected]. She would love to speak on any issues, questions, or themes that might be helpful.

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].

Upcoming Meetings/Events

Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, June 30, 7:00 pm

Weekly Offerings

Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending June 20, were $ 1100.
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 her recovery from complications of her back surgery.
Cards may be sent to them at 173 Hesperus Ave., Magnolia, MA 01930.

We ask that you keep Hannah Sotak in your prayers as she deals with some health issues.

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

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

Celebrations

James Almond celebrates a birthday on June 30
Laura and Jeff Lienhard celebrate an anniversary on July 3
Janet and Ralph Pace celebrate an anniversary on July 8

Annual Church Picnic

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

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

_________________________________________________________________________
June 27, 2021 10:00 A.M.

Service of Worship
Fifth Sunday of 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.)

            Sometimes, it feels like the world swallows us whole.
            Holy Spirit, be with us in the belly of the whale.
            Sometimes, it feels like the world spits us out!
            Savior Jesus, be with us as we try to get to shore.
            Sometimes, we find this new place is exactly where we were meant to be.
            Creator God, make us ready for this new way in this new day of worship.
            Let us pray:

OPENING PRAYER* (In Unison)

            God of power and mercy, in whom we have our being; prepare us in
  body,mind, and spirit this day, to be healed and restored that we may
  be made into the Sacred Space of God, present in the world. For we
  pray these things by the power of the Holy Spirit and in the name of
  Jesus the Christ.
  AMEN.

HYMN 145*                                                                                        ‘Morning Has Broken’

READING OF SCRIPTURE                                                           Jonah 1: 1-12, 17

REsponsive Reading:                                                                           Jonah 2: 1-10

  From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. He said:

  “In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me. From deep
  in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry.

  You hurled me into the depths, into the very heart of the seas, and the
  currents swirled about me; all your waves and breakers swept over me.

  I said, ‘I have been banished from your sight; yet I will look again toward
  your holy temple.’

  The engulfing waters threatened me, the deep surrounded me; seaweed
  was wrapped around my head.

  To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred
  me in forever.

  ALL: But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit.

  “When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer
  rose to you, to your holy temple.

  “Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.
  But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have
  vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.’”

  ALL: And the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.

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 12: 38-45

SERMON                                                                                      “Who Did Jonah Worship?”

HYMN 390*                                                                     ‘Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive’

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, ye heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION*

HYMN 394*                                                                                   ‘Something Beautiful’ X3

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING*

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

DISMISSAL

  Go forth, now, into the calling you have received from the Father, clothed in
  the restoring and renewing Light of Christ, held and strengthened by the power
  of the Holy Spirit. Go in peace to make peace!
  AMEN.

POSTLUDE

* All who are able may stand.
_________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns
for the June 27 Service

HYMN 145*                                    Morning Has Broken

Morning has broken like the first morning
Blackbird has spoken like the first bird
Praise for the singing
Praise for the morning
Praise for them springing fresh from the Word.

Sweet the rain's new fall, sunlit from heaven
Like the first dewfall on the first grass
Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden
Sprung in completeness where his feet pass

Mine is the sunlight
Mine is the morning
Born of the one light Eden saw play
Praise with elation, praise ev'ry morning
God's recreation of the new day

HYMN 390*            Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive

‘Forgive our sins as we forgive,' You taught us, Lord, to pray
But you alone can grant us grace To live the words we say

How can your pardon reach and bless The unforgiving heart
That broods on wrongs and will not let Old bitterness depart?

In blazing light your cross reveals The truth we dimly knew:
What trivial debts are owed to us How great our debt to you!

Lord, cleanse the depths within our souls And bid resentment cease;
Then, bound to all in bonds of love Our lives will spread your peace

HYMN 394*                                    Something Beautiful
(repeat 3 times)

Something beautiful, something good;
All my confusion, he understood.
All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife,
But He made something beautiful of my life.

_________________________________________________________________________

6/18/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - June 20, 2021

Please keep Anne Matalonis in your prayers for a speedy recovery from the surgery for her broken ankle.

We ask that you keep Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila recovers from complications of her back surgery this past week.

We ask that you keep Linda Thomson’s sister, Starr Anderson, who lost her husband to metastatic cancer, in your prayers.

We ask that you keep Hannah Sotak in your prayers as she deals with some health issues.

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

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

Celebrations

Larry and Dotti Humm, Penny Trick & Pat Moore, and
George and Linda Thomson celebrate anniversaries on June 24
Herb and Sandra Van Guilder celebrate an anniversary on June 25
James Almond celebrates a birthday on June 30

Annual Church Picnic

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

June 20, 2021 10:00 A.M.

Service of Worship
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the June 20 Service

HYMN 144*                              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 raise this 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 human love, brother, sister, parent, child,
friends on earth and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild;
(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 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

HYMN *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 107

6/11/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - June 13, 2021

We wish to thank Hannah Sotak for leading our worship service this morning. Hannah invites anyone who has a topic or scripture they would like to hear a sermon on to please email her this week. Her email address is [email protected]. She would love to speak on any issues, questions, or themes that might be helpful.

                     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 [email protected].

            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 [email protected].

                        Upcoming Meetings/Events

          Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, June 23, 7:00 pm

                              Weekly Offerings

Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending June 6, 2021 were $ 917. 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 Lee and Sheila Kafer in your prayers as Sheila recovers from complications of her back surgery this past week.

We ask that you keep Linda Thomson’s sister, Starr Anderson, who lost her husband to metastatic cancer, in your prayers.

We ask that you keep Hannah Sotak in your prayers as she deals with some health issues.

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

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

                              Celebrations

Brenda and Dick Dansingburg celebrate an anniversary on June 18
  Herb Van Guilder celebrates a birthday on June 19
  Larry and Dotti Humm, Penny Trick & Pat Moore, and
  George and Linda Thomson celebrate anniversaries on June 24
  Herb and Sandra Van Guilder celebrate an anniversary on June 25

                  Peony Pie Party at Happy Acres Farm

All are invited to this year's Peony Pie Party at Jim and Sandy Peplau's farm on Sunday, June 13 at 2pm. Bring a vase or container for a bouquet, along with your craving for pie this Sunday. The peonies are getting close to full bloom, but with the weather forecast for next week, this is our best bet for viewing. Happy Acres is located at 826 Twenty Mile Stream Road, South Reading, VT. Email at [email protected] for directions or more info. Hope to see you then.
Jim and Sandy

                           Annual Church Picnic

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

                              Exciting News!

The United Church of Ludlow has adopted the following rules of operation, consistent with the latest CDC Guidelines and the third step of the Vermont Forward Plan described by Governor Scott.   If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, please contact Dean or Laura. Please refer to vermont.gov for complete guidance and additional detail.

_________________________________________________________________________June 13, 2021 10:00 A.M.

Service of Worship
THIRD 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.)

  Give thanks to God; give praise to the One who saves;
  Rejoice and sing, for our lives are held fast in God’s mercy!
  Give thanks to God; give praise to the One who restores;
  Rejoice and sing, for our lives are held fast in God’s grace!
  Give thanks to God; give praise to the One who calls us by name!
  Rejoice and sing, for our lives are held fast in God’s love!

HYMN 144*                                                                        This is My Father’s World

OPENING PRAYER*

READING OF SCRIPTURE                                     2 Corinthians 5:6-10, (11-13), 14-17

Psalm 92                                                                                        page 811, Response 1

GLORIA 70*

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

THE GOSPEL LESSON Mark 7: 14-30

SERMON                                                                 “Are There Still Crumbs for the Dogs?”

HYMN 400*                                                       Come, Though Fount of Every Blessing

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, ye heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION*

HYMN *519                                                                        Lift Every Voice and Sing
BENEDICTION AND BLESSING*

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

DISMISSAL

  Go forth, now, into the calling you have received from the Father, clothed in
  the restoring and renewing Light of Christ, held and strengthened by the power
  of the Holy Spirit. Go in peace to make peace!

  AMEN.

POSTLUDE

* All who are able may stand.
________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the June 13 Service

HYMN 144                                    This is My Father’s World

This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears
all nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres.
This is my Father's world: I rest me in the thought
of rocks and trees, of skies and seas; his hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father's world, the birds their carols raise,
the morning light, the lily white, declare their maker's praise.
This is my Father's world: he shines in all that's fair;
in the rustling grass I hear him pass; he speaks to me everywhere.

This is my Father's world. O let me ne'er forget
that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father's world: why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King; let the heavens ring! God reigns; let the earth be glad!

HYMN 400                 Come, Though Fount of Every Blessing

Come, thou Fount of every blessing, tune my heart to sing thy grace;
streams of mercy, never ceasing, call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious sonnet, sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount! I'm fixed upon it, mount of thy redeeming love.

Here I raise mine Ebenezer; hither by thy help I'm come;
and I hope, by thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home.
Jesus sought me when a stranger, wandering from the fold of God;
he, to rescue me from danger, interposed his precious blood.

O to grace how great a debtor daily I'm constrained to be!
Let thy goodness, like a fetter, bind my wandering heart to thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, prone to leave the God I love;
here's my heart, O take and seal it, seal it for thy courts above.


HYMN *519                                  Lift Every Voice and Sing

Lift every voice and sing, till earth and heaven ring,
ring with the harmonies of liberty;
let our rejoicing rise high as the listening skies,
let it resound loud as the rolling sea.
Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us;
sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;
facing the rising sun of our new day begun,
let us march on till victory is won.
Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod,
felt in the days when hope unborn had died;
yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet
come to the place for which our fathers sighed?
We have come over a way that with tears has been watered;
we have come, treading our path thru the blood of the slaughtered,
out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last
where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears,
thou who hast brought us thus far on the way;
thou who hast by thy might led us into the light,
keep us forever in the path, we pray.
Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met thee;
lest our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget thee;
shadowed beneath thy hand, may we forever stand,
true to our God, true to our native land.

PSALM 92

________________________________________________________________________

6/4/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - June 6, 2021

The United Church of Ludlow has adopted the following rules of operation, consistent with the latest CDC Guidelines and the third step of the Vermont Forward Plan described by Governor Scott.

•          People who are fully vaccinated may go without a mask in both indoor and
outdoor spaces and do not have to social distance.
•          You may continue wearing a mask if you are not comfortable with the relaxed rules.
•          Those who are not fully vaccinated must continue to follow masking and social
distance guidelines for the time being.
•          We will begin using offering plates again. If you feel uncomfortable, please
continue to send your gifts to Anne.
•          We will continue to use the Prefilled Communion cups and wafer sets until we
run out of them.
•          We will have coffee hour following the service in the fellowship hall for those
who would like to stay. For those who do not yet feel comfortable, both the front
and back doors will be open for you to enter or depart from the church!

If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, please contact Dean or Laura. Please refer to vermont.gov for complete guidance and additional detail.
_________________________________________________________________________

June 6, 2021 10:00 A.M.
SERVICE OF WORSHIP
SECOND 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 73*                                                   O worship the King, all glorious above

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 EPISTLE LESSON                                                        I John 4: 7-12

PSALM 139                                                             Hymnal, page 854

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                                                        John 13: 1-15

SERMON                                         “Service in the Lord’s Name”

Hymn 445*                                                            Happy the home when God is there

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*                                                                        Gentile or Jew, servant or free

      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 530 *                                                                       "Are ye able," said the Master

BENEDICTION

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

POSTLUDE
_________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the June 6 Service

HYMN 73*               O worship the King, all glorious above

O worship the King, all glorious above,
O gratefully sing God's power and God's love;
our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days,
pavilioned in splendor, and girded with praise.

O tell of God's might, O sing of God's grace,
whose robe is the light, whose canopy space,
whose chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form,
and dark is God's path on the wings of the storm.

The earth with its store of wonders untold,
Almighty, thy power hath founded of old;
hath stablished it fast by a changeless decree,
and round it hath cast, like a mantle, the sea.

Thy bountiful care, what tongue can recite?
It breathes in the air, it shines in the light;
it streams from the hills, it descends to the plain,
and sweetly distills in the dew and the rain.

Frail children of dust, and feeble as frail,
in thee do we trust, nor find thee to fail;
thy mercies how tender, how firm to the end,
our Maker, Defender, Redeemer, and Friend.

HYMN 445*            Happy the home when God is there

Happy the home when God is there, and love fills every breast;
when one their wish, and one their prayer, and one their heavenly rest.

Happy the home where Jesus' name is sweet to every ear;
where children early speak his fame, and parents hold him dear.

Happy the home where prayer is heard, and praise is wont to rise;
where parents love the sacred Word and all its wisdom prize.

Lord, let us in our homes agree this blessed peace to gain;
unite our hearts in love to thee, and love to all will reign.

HYMN 620*            Gentile or Jew, servant or free

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 530 *                       "Are ye able," said the Master

"Are ye able," said the Master, "to be crucified with me?"
"Yea," the sturdy dreamers answered, "to the death we follow thee."
Refrain:
Lord, we are able. Our spirits are thine. Remold them, make us, like thee, divine.
Thy guiding radiance above us shall be a beacon to God, to love, and loyalty.

Are ye able to remember, when a thief lifts up his eyes,
that his pardoned soul is worthy of a place in paradise?
(Refrain)

Are ye able when the shadows close around you with the sod,
to believe that spirit triumphs, to commend your soul to God?
(Refrain)

Are ye able? Still the Master whispers down eternity,
and heroic spirits answer, now as then in Galilee.
(Refrain)

PSALM 139

_________________________________________________________________________

5/28/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - May 30, 2021

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].

Upcoming Meetings/Events

Executive Board Meeting - Wednesday, June 23, 7:00 pm

Weekly Offerings

Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending May 23, 2021 were $1008. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks).

Please continue to mail your offerings to Anne Oakes, our
Receiver of Offerings, 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 Hannah Sotak in your prayers as she deals with some health issues.

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

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

Celebrations

Carol Wu celebrates a birthday on June 4
Fred and Lisha celebrate an anniversary on June 4
Bob Watts celebrates a birthday on June 10

Exciting News!

The United Church of Ludlow has adopted the following rules of operation, consistent with the latest CDC Guidelines and the third step of the Vermont Forward Plan described by Governor Scott.

People who are fully vaccinated may go without a mask in both indoor and outdoor spaces and do not have to social distance.
You may continue wearing a mask if you are not comfortable with the relaxed rules.
Those who are not fully vaccinated must continue to follow masking and social distance guidelines for the time being.
We will begin using offering plates again. If you feel uncomfortable, please continue to send your gifts to Anne.
We will continue to use the Prefilled Communion cups and wafer sets until we run out of them.
We will have coffee hour following the service in the fellowship hall for those who would like to stay. For those who do not yet feel comfortable, both the front and back doors will be open for you to enter or depart from the church!

If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, please contact Dean or Laura. Please refer to vermont.gov for complete guidance and additional detail.
_________________________________________________________________________

May 30, 2021 10:00 A.M.

Service of Worship
TRINITY 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.)

  LEADER         By the calling of God’s Holy Spirit, we gather in the name of the
          living Christ to worship God.

  PEOPLE         Surely, God is in this place and calls us to worship in spirit
          and in truth.

  LEADER         God’s love is for you and for all people everywhere.

  PEOPLE         That we may share the love and life of God the Father, may
          we be renewed in the refreshing Holy Spirit in the presence
          of the living Christ.

HYMN 62*                                                               All Creatures of our God and King

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 peace, Forgive us when we have participated in that which turns
  people against each other; for fueling anger and harboring vengeance,
  for not heeding your call to love one another. Inspire us never to give up
  on the hope that your life offers us, and the courage to see past war
  and desolation and live for the day when it will be peace. We thank you
  for your presence in our lives. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray.
  Amen

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

OLD TESTAMENT LESSON                                                           Isaiah 6:1-8

Psalm 29: 1-11                                                                 Hymnal, page 761

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                                                                    John 3:1-17

SERMON                                                      “Just How Do We Know?”

HYMN 584*                                                Lord You Give the Great Commission

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYER 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, you heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

HYMN 717*                                                            Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory

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 May 30 Service

HYMN 62*               All Creatures of our God and King

All creatures of our God and King, lift up your voice and with us sing,
O praise ye! Alleluia!
O brother sun with golden beam, O sister moon with silver gleam!
(Refrain)
O praise ye! O praise ye! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

O brother wind, air, clouds, and rain, by which all creatures ye sustain,
O praise ye! Alleluia!
Thou rising morn, in praise rejoice, ye lights of evening, find a voice!
(Refrain)

O sister water, flowing clear, make music for thy Lord to hear,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
O brother fire who lights the night, providing warmth, enhancing sight,
(Refrain)

Dear mother earth, who day by day unfoldest blessings on our way,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
The flowers and fruits that in thee grow, let them God's glory also show!
(Refrain)

All ye who are of tender heart, forgiving others, take your part,
O praise ye! Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear, praise God and on him cast your care!
(Refrain)

And thou, our sister, gentle death, waiting to hush our latest breath,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Thou leadest home the child of God, and Christ our Lord the way has trod,
(Refrain)

Let all things their Creator bless, and worship him in humbleness,
O praise ye! Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son, and praise the Spirit, Three in One!
(Refrain)

HYMN 584*            Lord You Give the Great Commission

Lord, you give the great commission: “Heal the sick and preach the word.”
Lest the church neglect its mission, and the gospel go unheard,
help us witness to your purpose with renewed integrity.
With the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.

Lord, you call us to your service: “In my name baptize and teach.”
That the world may trust your promise, life abundant meant for each,
give us all new fervor, draw us closer in community.
With the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.

Lord, you make the common holy: “This my body, this my blood.”
Let us all, for earth’s true glory, daily lift life heavenward,
asking that the world around us share your children’s liberty.
With the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.

Lord, you show us love’s true measure: “Father, what they do, forgive.”
Yet we hoard as private treasure all that you so freely give.
May your care and mercy lead us to a just society.
With the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.

Lord, you bless with words assuring: “I am with you to the end.”
Faith and hope and love restoring, may we serve as you intend
and, amid the cares that claim us, hold in mind eternity.
With the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.

HYMN 717*                        Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
he is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
he hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword;
his truth is marching on.
Refrain:
Glory, glory, hallelujah! Glory, glory, hallelujah!

I have seen him in the watchfires of a hundred circling camps,
they have builded him an altar in the evening dews and damps;
I can read his righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps;
his day is marching on.
(Refrain)

He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat;
he is sifting out the hearts of men before his judgment seat;
O be swift, my soul, to answer him; be jubilant, my feet!
Our God is marching on.
(Refrain)

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
with a glory in his bosom that transfigures you and me;
as he died to make men holy, let us die to make men free,
while God is marching on.
(Refrain)

He is coming like the glory of the morning on the wave,
he is wisdom to the mighty, he is honor to the brave;
so the world shall be his footstool, and the soul of wrong his slave.
Our God is marching on.
(Refrain)

_________________________________________________________________________

PSALM 29: 1 - 11

_________________________________________________________________________

5/21/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - May 23, 2021

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].

Upcoming Meetings/Events

Pastoral Search Committee Meeting - Wednesday, May 26, 7:00 pm

Weekly Offerings

Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending May 16, were $1660. The costs for each week are $1,320 (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks).

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

Altar Guild

Linda Alexander and Carol Wu provide our Altar Guild services.

Prayer Concerns

We continue to keep the following in our prayers:

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

Celebrations

Richard Stewart celebrates a birthday on May 24
Carol Wu celebrates a birthday on June 4
Fred and Lisha celebrate an anniversary on June 4

Exciting News!

The United Church of Ludlow has adopted the following rules of operation, consistent with the latest CDC Guidelines and the third step of the Vermont Forward Plan described by Governor Scott.

People who are fully vaccinated may go without a mask in both indoor and outdoor spaces and do not have to social distance.
You may continue wearing a mask if you are not comfortable with the relaxed rules.
Those who are not fully vaccinated must continue to follow masking and social distance guidelines for the time being.
We will begin using offering plates again. If you feel uncomfortable, please continue to send your gifts to Anne.
We will continue to use the Prefilled Communion cups and wafer sets until we run out of them.
We will have coffee hour following the service in the fellowship hall for those who would like to stay. For those who do not yet feel comfortable, both the front and back doors will be open for you to enter or depart from the church!

May 23, 2021                                                                                                         10:00 A.M.

Service of Worship

PENTACOST 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.

HYMN 500*                                        Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart                                                                                                                       (verses 1,2 and 4)

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

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 104: 24 – 35                                              Hymnal, page 827

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 LESSON                                                 Acts 2:1-21

SERMON                                                      “It’s Time to Sense the Spirit”

HYMN 420*                               Breathe on Me, Breath of God

JOYS AND CONCERNS

PRAYER 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, you heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

HYMN 393* (Sung twice)                                    Spirit of the Living 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 and Responsive Reading
for the May 23 Service

HYMN 500*           Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart (verses 1,2 and 4)

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.

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.

HYMN 420*                        Breathe on Me, Breath of God

Breathe on me, Breath of God, fill me with life anew,
that I may love what thou dost love, and do what thou wouldst do.

Breathe on me, Breath of God, until my heart is pure,
until with thee I will one will, to do and to endure.

Breathe on me, Breath of God, till I am wholly thine,
till all this earthly part of me glows with thy fire divine.

Breathe on me, Breath of God, so shall I never die,
but live with thee the perfect life of thine eternity.

HYMN 393* (Sung twice)             Spirit of the Living God

Spirit of the Living God, Fall a-fresh on me
Spirit of the Living God, Fall a-fresh on me
Melt me, mold me, Fill me, use me
Spirit of the Living God, Fall a-fresh on me

(Repeat)

PSALM 104: 24 – 35

5/14/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - May 16, 2021

The United Church of Ludlow will adopt the following rules of operation, consistent with the latest CDC Guidelines and the third step of the Vermont Forward Plan described by Governor Scott, today.

People who are fully vaccinated may go without a mask in both indoor and outdoor spaces and do not have to social distance.
However, you may continue wearing a mask if you are not comfortable with the relaxed rules.
Those who are not fully vaccinated must continue to follow masking and social distance guidelines for the time being.
We will begin using offering plates again. If you feel uncomfortable, please continue to send your gifts to Anne.
We will continue to use the Prefilled Communion cups and wafer sets until we run out of them.

Beginning this Sunday, May 16, 2021, we will have coffee hour following the service in the fellowship hall for those who would like to stay. For those who do not yet feel comfortable, both the front and back doors will be open for you to enter or depart from the church!

If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, please contact Dean or Laura. Please refer to vermont.gov for complete guidance and additional detail.

_________________________________________________________________________
May 16, 2021 10:00 A.M.

Service of Worship
Ascension 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.

UNISON CALL TO WORSHIP*     (Please Stand.)

  God of love, help us to remember
  That Christ has no body now on earth but ours,
  No hands but ours, no feet but ours.
  Ours are the eyes to see the needs of the world.
  Ours are the hands with which to bless everyone now.
  Ours are the feet with which He is to go about doing good.
                      -- Saint Teresa of Avila prayer

HYMN 75*                                                             All People That on Earth Do Dwell

OPENING PRAYER*

UNISON PRAYER OF CONFESSION

  Dear Lord, you call us to proclaim a gospel we find difficult to practice.
  We watch our clocks to make sure we get on to the next thing when
  the service ends, and sometimes we forget to take you with us. We
  are hesitant to witness to your power and healing love. Sometimes,
  we miss the signs that you are near us, in us. Forgive our moments
  of blindness, dear God of Light and Holy Sight. Fill us with the healing
  presence of your Spirit, that we may proclaim your good news, as we
  participate in the life and suffering of our world, following the example
  of your Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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

ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

  Choosing to set aside judgment, God gives us forgiveness; choosing to let
  go of punishment, God fills us with grace; choosing to set aside anger, God's
  steadfast love rests upon us. Forgiven, redeemed, restored—we will tell
  everyone, through the lives we lead, what God has done for us.
  Thanks be to God. Amen.

READING OF SCRIPTURE

SCRIPTURE READING                                                                   Acts 1: 1-11

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 24: 44-53

SERMON                                          “Why Stand Looking to Heaven?”

HYMN 475*                                                                         Come Down, Oh Love Divine

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

  “And whatsoever you do in word and deed, do all in the name of the Lord
  Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Col. 3: 17)

OFFERTORY

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

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING*

  Let us give thanks.

  Holy God of mercy, redemption and grace, this morning we bring our gifts and
  pray that you will help us dedicate them to your work of love and reconciliation.
  These gifts are small compared to what you have given us -- the gifts of creation,
  Christ’s sacrifice, and the ongoing inspiration of the Holy Spirit. In our giving,
  may we grow in gratitude, trust, and faithfulness. In the name of Christ, who
  gave all for us, we pray. Amen.

HYMN 157*                                                            Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING*

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

  Dear Lord, Let us go out into the world humbled by our call, yet bold
  because of the grace of God. Let our “yes” be “yes” and our “no” be
  “no.” And when we miss the mark, help us to acknowledge our
  shortcomings, to accept your grace, and continue to rise again in
  your service.

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 May 16 Service

HYMN 75*                           All People That on Earth Do Dwell

All people that on earth do dwell, sing to the Lord with cheerful voice.
Him serve with mirth, his praise forth tell; come ye before him and rejoice.

Know that the Lord is God indeed; without our aid he did us make;
we are his folk, he doth us feed, and for his sheep he doth us take.

O enter then his gates with praise; approach with joy his courts unto;
praise, laud, and bless his name always, for it is seemly so to do.

For why! the Lord our God is good; his mercy is forever sure;
his truth at all times firmly stood, and shall from age to age endure.

HYMN 475*                         Come Down, Oh 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 157*                        Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun

Jesus shall reign where'er the sun does its successive journeys run;
his kingdom spread from shore to shore, till moons shall wax and wane no more.

To Jesus endless prayer be made, and endless praises crown his head;
his name like sweet perfume shall rise with every morning sacrifice.

People and realms of every tongue dwell on his love with sweetest song;
and infant voices shall proclaim their early blessings on his name.

Blessings abound where'er he reigns; all prisoners leap and loose their chains;
the weary find eternal rest, and all who suffer want are blest.

Let every creature rise and bring honors peculiar to our King;
angels descend with songs again, and earth repeat the loud amen!

5/7/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - May 9, 2021

The church is now open adopting the Vermont Forward Roadmap to Reopening.

We will follow universal guidance:

If Sick - Stay Home
Wear a mask
Six foot spaces
Practice good hygiene

Indoor Gatherings-

1 unvaccinated person per 100 square feet up to 150 plus any number of vaccinated people
We will start using offering plates again. If you feel uncomfortable, please continue to send your gifts to Anne.
We will continue to use the Prefilled Communion cups and wafer sets until we run out of them.

May 9, 2021 10:00 A.M.
SERVICE OF WORSHIP
SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
Mother’s Day

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.)

  As a mother hen gather’s her chicks under her wings;
  May we be gathered in as God’s children here in this time of worship.
  As the water of the womb once surrounded us in care and provision until
  our first breath;
  May we trust the waters of our baptism and the Living Waters of Christ
  to nourish, care, and strengthen us this day:
  Let us Pray:

OPENING PRAYER*

  God of Love, in whom we have our being; as we gather this day for
  worship, mold and make us anew that we may be made into the Sacred
  Space of God and the Body of Christ for the world. For it is by the power
  of the Holy Spirit and in Christ’s name we pray. AMEN.

HYMN 89* Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee
READING OF SCRIPTURE

Psalm 98                                                                               P. 818-819, Response 1

EPISTLE LESSON ACTS 10: 44-48

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,
  without end. Amen. Amen.

THE GOSPEL LESSON 1 John 5: 1-12

SERMON   “Are You My Mother?”

HYMN *710                                                                                           Faith of Our Mothers
                                                                                             Words by Rev. HK Sotak, ©2021

  Faith of our Mothers, living still, in spite of prison, stake, and fire;
  Though they faced cruelty, spite, and scorn, still they pressed on with God’s desire
  CHORUS:
  Faith of our mothers, holy faith! We will be true to thee to death!

  Faith of our mothers, grounded in strength, though oft discounted and dismissed,
  Carried the Church through famine and wars, making a way despite bullet and fist.
  CHORUS:
  Faith of our mothers, holy faith! We will be true to thee to death!

  Faith of our mothers, leading us still, whether adorned with work boots or lace;
  Preaching and teaching, with apron or stole; leading with love and sharing
  God’s grace.
  CHORUS:
  Faith of our mothers, holy faith! We will be true to thee to death!

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, ye heavenly host;
  Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION*

HYMN 593*                                                                                                     Here I Am, Lord

BENEDICTION AND BLESSING*

  “There is neither Jew nor Greek; there is neither slave nor free; nor is there
  male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28) So,
  may we go forth as we are, who we are, loved, created, and called by God to
  use our unique gifts and graces to be the Body of Christ for the world.

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 May 9 Service

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 *710                                          Faith of Our Mothers
Words by Rev. HK Sotak, ©2021

Faith of our Mothers, living still, in spite of prison, stake, and fire;
Though they faced cruelty, spite, and scorn, still they pressed on with God’s desire
CHORUS: Faith of our mothers, holy faith! We will be true to thee to death!

Faith of our mothers, grounded in strength, though oft discounted and dismissed,
Carried the Church through famine and wars, making a way despite bullet and fist.
CHORUS

Faith of our mothers, leading us still, whether adorned with work boots or lace;
Preaching and teaching, with apron or stole; leading with love and sharing God’s grace.
CHORUS

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 word 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, Till their hearts be satisfied.
I will give My life to them. Whom shall I send?

Refrain

Psalm 98                                                       P. 818-819, Response 1

4/30/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - May 2, 2021

The church will open on Sunday, May 2, 2021 according to the Vermont Forward Roadmap to Reopening

We will move to universal guidance:

Stay at Home if sick
Wear a mask
Six foot spaces
Practice good hygiene

Indoor Gatherings-

1 unvaccinated person per 100 square feet up to 150 plus any number

of vaccinated people

We will start using offering plates again. If you feel uncomfortable, please

continue to send your gifts to Anne.

We will continue to use the Prefilled Communion cups and wafer sets

until we run out of them.

After Church, beginning on Sunday, May 16, 2021, we will have coffee hour in the fellowship hall for those who would like to stay. For those who do not yet feel comfortable, both the front and back doors will be open for you to enter or depart from the church!

If you have any questions or are unsure about anything please contact Dean or Laura. Please refer to vermont.gov for complete guidance and additional detail.
_________________________________________________________________________

WINDHAM UNION ASSOCIATION
SPRING GATHERING

The Annual Spring gathering of the Windham Union Association is this evening, May 2nd at 7 p.m.!! By popular demand, the Rev. Dr. Stephen G. Ray, Jr., president of Chicago Theological Seminary will present a lecture, "Race, Poverty, and the Mission of the Church."

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86363892342?pwd=T3crSDEwYnFUYUpKWHVqdzNuQWR3Zz09

Meeting ID: 863 6389 2342
Passcode: 656445
_________________________________________________________________________

May 2, 2021 10:00 A.M.
SERVICE OF WORSHIP

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
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 61*                                                               Come, Thou Almighty King

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 EPISTLE LESSON                                                                                I John 4: 7-21

PSALM 19                                                                                       Hymnal, page 750-1
                                                                                                                      Response 1

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                                                                                John 15: 1-8

SERMON                                         “The Mark of a Christian”

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 292*                                                                        What Wondrous Love Is This

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 374 *                                                                       Standing on the Promises

BENEDICTION

BENEDICTION RESPONSE

POSTLUDE
_________________________________________________________________________

Lyrics to the Hymns and Responsive Reading
for the May 2 Service

HYMN 61*                           Come, Thou Almighty King

Come, thou almighty King, help us thy name to sing,
help us to praise!
Father all glorious, o'er all victorious,
come and reign over us, Ancient of Days!

Come, thou incarnate Word, gird on thy mighty sword,
our prayer attend!
Come, and thy people bless, and give thy word success;
Spirit of holiness, on us descend!

Come, holy Comforter, thy sacred witness bear
in this glad hour.
Thou who almighty art, now rule in every heart,
and ne'er from us depart, Spirit of power!

To thee, great One in Three, eternal praises be,
hence, evermore.
Thy sovereign majesty may we in glory see,
and to eternity love and adore!

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 292*                        What Wondrous Love Is This

What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul,
what wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
to bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
to bear the dreadful curse for my soul.

What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul,
what wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, that caused the Lord of life
to lay aside his crown for my soul, for my soul,
to lay aside his crown for my soul.

To God and to the Lamb I will sing, I will sing,
to God and to the Lamb, I will sing;
to God and to the Lamb who is the great I AM,
while millions join the theme I will sing, I will sing;
while millions join the theme I will sing.

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
and when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on;
and when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be,
and through eternity I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
and through eternity I’ll sing on.

HYMN 374 * Standing on the Promises

Standing on the promises of Christ my King, through eternal ages let his praises ring;
glory in the highest, I will shout and sing, standing on the promises of God.
Refrain:
Standing, standing, standing on the promises of God my Savior;
standing, standing, I'm standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises that cannot fail, when the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
by the living Word of God I shall prevail, standing on the promises of God.
[Refrain]

Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord, bound to him eternally by love's strong cord,
overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword, standing on the promises of God.
[Refrain]

Standing on the promises I cannot fall, listening every moment to the Spirit's call,
resting in my Savior as my all in all, standing on the promises of God.
[Refrain]

4/23/2021

United Church of Ludlow Weekly eNewsletter - April 25, 2021

Exciting News!

The church will open on Sunday, May 2, 2021 according to the Vermont Forward Roadmap to Reopening

We will move to universal guidance:

Stay at Home if sick
Wear a mask
Six foot spaces
Practice good hygiene

Indoor Gatherings-

1 unvaccinated person per 100 square feet up to 150 plus any number

of vaccinated people

We will start using offering plates again. If you feel uncomfortable, please

continue to send your gifts to Anne.

We will continue to use the Prefilled Communion cups and wafer sets

April 25th, 2021 10:00 A.M.

Service of Worship
Fourth Sunday of Easter

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

HYMN 144*                        This Is My Father’s World

This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears
all nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres.
This is my Father's world: I rest me in the thought
of rocks and trees, of skies and seas; his hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father's world, the birds their carols raise,
the morning light, the lily white, declare their maker's praise.
This is my Father's world: he shines in all that's fair;
in the rustling grass I hear him pass; he speaks to me everywhere.

This is my Father's world. O let me ne'er forget
that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father's world: why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King; let the heavens ring! God reigns; let the earth be glad!

HYMN 377*                         It Is Well with My Soul

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.

Refrain: It is well with my soul, it is well, it is well with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, let this blest assurance control,
that Christ has regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed his own blood for my soul.
(Refrain)

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(Refrain)

And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, even so, it is well with my soul.
(Refrain)

HYMN 363*                         And Can it Be That I Should Gain, vs. 1,2,4

1. And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Savior's blood!
Died he for me? who caused his pain! For me? who him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! How can it be that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

‘Tis mystery all: th' Immortal dies! Who can explore his strange design?
In vain the firstborn seraph tries to sound the depths of love divine.
'Tis mercy all! Let earth adore; let angel minds inquire no more.
'Tis mercy all! Let earth adore; let angel minds inquire no more.

He left his Father's throne above (so free, so infinite his grace!),
emptied himself of all but love, and bled for Adam's helpless race.
'Tis mercy all, immense and free, for O my God, it found out me!
'Tis mercy all, immense and free, for O my God, it found out me!

Long my imprisoned spirit lay, fast bound in sin and nature's night;
thine eye diffused a quickening ray; I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
my chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed thee.
My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed thee.

No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in him, is mine;
alive in him, my living Head, and clothed in righteousness divine,
bold I approach th' eternal throne, and claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Bold I approach th' eternal throne, and claim the crown, through Christ my own.

Psalm 23                                        P. 754

_________________________________________________________________________

<<Previous

Forward>>

YOUR CART