UNION CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
CHURCH OFFICE 748-6329 PASTOR BROWN 748-1358
February 3, 2008 COMMUNION SUNDAY 8:30 AM
PRELUDE: Betty Phinney
ANNOUNCEMENTS: 8:25 AM
*GREETINGS & GATHERINGS: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20 KJV
*CALL TO WORSHIP:
Leader: I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh.
People: The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the same loaf.
Leader: Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.
People: Christ our Paschal Lamb is offered up for us, once for all, when He bore our sins on His body upon the cross; for He is the very Lamb of God that taketh away the sins for the world: wherefore let us keep a joyful and holy feast with the Lord.
All: What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him, God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
*HYMNS OF PRAISE: “Lift High the Cross” #159
“The Wonderful Cross” Insert
AFFIRMATION OF FAITH: The Apostles’ Creed #881
*GLORIA PATRI: #70
UNISON PRAYER: “Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Thy Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love Thee, and worthily magnify Thy holy name through Christ our Lord who has taught us to pray:”
THE LORD’S PRAYER
CHOIR ANTHEM: “The Father’s Love” Adult Choir
Welcoming Our Visiting Friends
Sharing of Our Testimonies, Joy and Blessings
Sharing our Prayer Concerns
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
*THE GREAT THANKSGIVING: Glory be to God
on high, and on earth peace, good will toward men. We praise Thee, we bless
Thee, we worship Thee, we glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for Thy great
glory: O Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty. O Lord, the only
begotten Son, Jesus Christ: O Lord God, Lamb of God, son of the Father; that takest
away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us. Thou that takest away the sins
of the world, receive our prayer. Thou that sittest at the right hand of God
the Father, have mercy upon us. For Thou only art holy; Thou only art the
Lord; Thou only, O Christ, with the Holy Ghost, art most high in the glory of
God the Father. Amen.
INVITATION:
Pastor: Ye that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbors, and intend to lead a new life, following the commandments of God, and walking from henceforth in His holy ways: Draw near with faith, and take this holy Sacrament to your comfort, and make your humble confession to almighty God.
CONFESSION IN UNISON:
Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, maker of all things, judge of all men: We acknowledge and bewail our manifold sins and wickedness, which we from time to time most grievously have committed, by thought, word, and deed, against Thy divine majesty. We do earnestly repent, and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings; the remembrance of them is grievous unto us. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. For Thy Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past; and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and please Thee in newness of life, to the honor and glory of Thy name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
PRAY FOR PARDON:
Pastor: Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of Thy great mercy hast promised forgiveness of sins to all them that with hearty repentance and true faith turn to Thee; Have mercy upon us; pardon and deliver us from all our sins; confirm and strengthen us in all goodness; and bring us to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
WORDS OF ASSURANCE:
Leader: Here what comfortable words the Scriptures say to all that truly turn to the Lord:
Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. 1 Timothy 1:15
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
If anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He is the expiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:1-2
COMMUNION STEWARDS: Liz Haas and Jan Avery
CHURCH CALENDAR for the WEEK of February 3, 2008
TODAY: 8:30 AM First Worship Service
9:50 AM Sunday School
11:00 AM Second Worship Service
12:30 PM Fellowship Luncheon
9:30 AM Wesley United Methodist Church Service
TUES: 7:00 PM Trustee’s Meeting
WED: 6:00 PM Soup/Supper
6:30 PM Bible Study
FRI: 7:00 PM TV Ministry – Cable Channel 4
CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR: Chuck Loeffler, Carl Grube (paralyzed, 37 yr. old brother of Kim Soundararaj), Gail C. (upcoming biopsy), Bernard Kohler (85 yr. old has emphysema, Betty DuBois's cousin), Corie (on bed rest expecting twins), Bettye Tuzza, Kathleen Budnovitch (Millie Rood’s friend), Ernie Peckham, Sr. (surgery on 2-18-08), Irene Boyer, John Pipher, Jean Warfield, Judy Pflug (Feb. 5 surgery), Linda Ayer, George Cameron, Patsy Carmon, Irving Rosenbarker, Connie Perry, Pamela Jean (Jack and Alice Black’s niece), Bob English, Millie Rood, Jack Black, Ethel Hower, Yvonne Arnold, Rachel Polhamus, Jonathan (Nate Young’s grandson), Orin White, Jeffery Sibley, Diane Ryans, Linda Fisher, Ralph Kocik, June Smith, Chad Grindel (Ray & Betty Fowler’s grandson), Dorothy Sedlacek, Ruth Ross, Alana Otis, Don & Lillian Eckler, Andy & Ann, Eloise & Mahlon Tewksbury and Paul Carpenter. We extend a Christian sympathy to the family of Lee Sanford and also to the family of Mary Mead, a friend of Emily Seymour.
SPECIAL NEEDS : Vin and Sherri Rosenbarker, Alex Madison (mass on his kidney), Kim Soundararaj (breast cancer) and Danielle DeGaramo (who has cancer)
THOSE SERVING IN IRAQ: Alan Votakpa, Shawn Gent, Frank Simser, Kevin McPherson - Rich's cousin, now on his 8th tour in Iraq, Kyle Chanitz, Scott McPherson, Christopher Simser, Jr., Adam Tatusko and Nicholas Tokos. Please pray for our Nation, Kenya and Orissa, India.
PRAYING FOR OUR MISSIONARIES: Dennis Turgeon (Kenya, Feb. 28), Doug/Karen (Frisch) Lehman (Africa), Jim /Shawn Ramsay (Georgia/Mission Society), Peter/Esther Pereira (India), Dave/Jean Coles (Indonesia), Neal/Mari Hicks (Japan), Guido/Kim (Warren) Orellana (Ecuador), Dr. Jeff/Marilyn Lester (Medics International), Dr.Terry/Renee Wortz, Elizabeth Salisbury(USA), Gary/Rebecca Mink (Africa), Leroy/Peg Jones (USA), Larry/Marian Byrnes (Indiana/OMS), Christopher/Rashaell Jones (Ecuador)
OFFERTORY
*DOXOLOGY
HYMN OF PREPARATION: “Open My Eyes, That I May See” #454
SCRIPTURE READING: Matthew 17:1-9 Pew Bible #951
MESSAGE: “Hills and Valleys” Pastor Brown
COMMUNION SERVICE:
Leader: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them up to the Lord.
Leader: Let us give thanks unto the Lord.
People: It is meet and right so to do.
Leader: It is very meet, right, and our bounden duty that we should at all times and in all places give thanks unto Thee, O Lord, holy Father, almighty, everlasting God.
Therefore with angels and archangels, and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify Thy glorious name, evermore praising Thee, and saying:
People: Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts: Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory! Glory be to Thee, O Lord most high! Amen.
Leader: Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of Thy tender mercy didst give Thine only son Jesus Christ to suffer death upon the cross for our redemption; who made there, by the one offering of Himself, a full, perfect, and sufficient sacrifice for the sins of the whole world; and did institute, and in His holy Gospel command us to continue, a perpetual memory of His precious death until His coming again: Hear us, O merciful Father, we most humbly beseech Thee, and grant that we, receiving these Thy creatures of bread and wine, according to Thy Son our Savior Jesus Christ’s holy institution, in remembrance of His passion, death, and resurrection, may be partakers of the divine nature through Him: Who in the same night that He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, Take eat; this is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me. Likewise after supper He took the cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of this; for this is My blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins; to this, as oft as ye shall drink it, in remembrance of me. Amen.
All: We do not presume to come to this Thy table, O merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in Thy manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under Thy table. But Thou art the same Lord, whose property is always to have mercy. Grant us therefore, gracious Lord, so to partake of this Sacrament of Thy Son Jesus Christ, that we may walk in newness of life, may grow into His likeness, and may evermore dwell in Him, and He in us. Amen.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, grant us Thy peace.
DISTRIBUTION OF THE ELEMENTS:
PRAYER OF CONSECREATION: “O Lord, our heavenly Father, we, Thy humble servants, desire Thy fatherly goodness mercifully to accept this our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; most humbly beseeching Thee to grant, that, by the merits and death of Thy Son Jesus Christ, and through faith in His blood, we and Thy whole Church may obtain forgiveness of our sins, and all other benefits of His passion. And here we offer and present unto Thee, O Lord, ourselves, our souls and bodies, to be a reasonable, holy, and lively sacrifice unto Thee; humbly beseeching Thee that all we who are partakers of this Holy Communion may be filled with Thy grace and heavenly benediction. And although we be unworthy, through our manifold sins, to offer unto Thee any sacrifice, yet we beseech Thee to accept this our bounden duty and service, not weighing our merits, but pardoning our offenses; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom, and with whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honor and glory be unto Thee, O Father Almighty, world without end. Amen.
HYMN OF DEDICATON: “How Can We Sinners Know” #372
THOSE WHO ARE SERVING TODAY: 8:30 AM
WORSHIP LEADER: Jim Geer
GREETERS: Gordon & Donna Glover
NURSERY: Betsy Shumaker
USHER: Adam Rosenbarker
AUDIO: Bob Deuel
JR. CHURCH:
*ALLELUIA *BENEDICTION *POSTLUDE
Altar is open for prayer. You are welcome to come to the Altar, praying for someone or praying for self with commitment to Christ for the first time or for rededication of your life to Him. Someone will join you at the Altar to pray with you.
RECORD OF FAITHFULNESS & STEWARDSHIP FOR January 27, 2008
ATTENDANCE:(76,64/141) TOTAL OFFERING:$5,246.20
GENERAL:$1,483.00 DESIGNATED:$3,763.20
UNION CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
CHURCH OFFICE 748-6329 PASTOR BROWN 748-1358
February 3, 2008 COMMUNION SUNDAY 11:00 AM
PRELUDE: Betty Phinney
ANNOUNCEMENTS: 11:00 AM
*GREETINGS & GATHERINGS: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20 KJV
*CALL TO WORSHIP:
Leader: I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh.
People: The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the same loaf.
Leader: Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.
People: Christ our Paschal Lamb is offered up for us, once for all, when He bore our sins on His body upon the cross; for He is the very Lamb of God that taketh away the sins for the world: wherefore let us keep a joyful and holy feast with the Lord.
All: What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him, God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
*A TIME OF PRAISE: “Trading My Sorrows”
“Nothing But The Blood”
“The Wonderful Cross”
AFFIRMATION OF FAITH: The Apostles’ Creed #881
UNISON PRAYER: “Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Thy Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love Thee, and worthily magnify Thy holy name through Christ our Lord who has taught us to pray:”
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Welcoming Our Visiting Friends
Sharing of Our Testimonies, Joy and Blessings
Sharing our Prayer Concerns
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
*THE GREAT THANKSGIVING: Glory be to God on high, and on earth peace, good will toward men. We praise Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee, we glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for Thy great glory: O Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty. O Lord, the only begotten Son, Jesus Christ: O Lord God, Lamb of God, son of the Father; that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us. Thou that takest away the sins of the world, receive our prayer. Thou that sittest at the right hand of God the Father, have mercy upon us. For Thou only art holy; Thou only art the Lord; Thou only, O Christ, with the Holy Ghost, art most high in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
INVITATION:
Pastor: Ye that do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbors, and intend to lead a new life, following the commandments of God, and walking from henceforth in His holy ways: Draw near with faith, and take this holy Sacrament to your comfort, and make your humble confession to almighty God.
CONFESSION IN UNISON:
Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, maker of all things, judge of all men: We acknowledge and bewail our manifold sins and wickedness, which we from time to time most grievously have committed, by thought, word, and deed, against Thy divine majesty. We do earnestly repent, and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings; the remembrance of them is grievous unto us. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. For Thy Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past; and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and please Thee in newness of life, to the honor and glory of Thy name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
PRAY FOR PARDON:
Pastor: Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of Thy great mercy hast promised forgiveness of sins to all them that with hearty repentance and true faith turn to Thee; Have mercy upon us; pardon and deliver us from all our sins; confirm and strengthen us in all goodness; and bring us to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
WORDS OF ASSURANCE:
Pastor: Here what comfortable words the Scriptures say to all that truly turn to the Lord:
Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. 1 Timothy 1:15
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
If anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He is the expiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:1-2
OFFERTORY
*A TIME OF WORSHIP: “You Are My King”
“Only Always”
“Here Is Love”
SCRIPTURE READING: Matthew 17:1-9 Pew Bible #951
MESSAGE: “Hills and Valleys” Pastor Brown
COMMUNION SERVICE
Leader: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them up to the Lord.
Leader: Let us give thanks unto the Lord.
People: It is meet and right so to do.
Leader: It is very meet, right, and our bounden duty that we should at all times and in all places give thanks unto Thee, O Lord, holy Father, almighty, everlasting God.
Therefore with angels and archangels, and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify Thy glorious name, evermore praising Thee, and saying.
People: Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts: Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory! Glory be to Thee, O Lord most high! Amen.
Leader: Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of Thy tender mercy didst give Thine only son Jesus Christ to suffer death upon the cross for our redemption; who made there, by the one offering of Himself, a full, perfect, and sufficient sacrifice for the sins of the whole world; and did institute, and in His holy Gospel command us to continue, a perpetual memory of His precious death until His coming again: Hear us, O merciful Father, we most humbly beseech Thee, and grant that we, receiving these Thy creatures of bread and wine, according to Thy Son our Savior Jesus Christ’s holy institution, in remembrance of His passion, death, and resurrection, may be partakers of the divine nature through Him: Who in the same night that He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, Take eat; this is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me. Likewise after supper He took the cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of this; for this is My blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins; to this, as oft as ye shall drink it, in remembrance of me. Amen. We do not presume to come to this Thy table, O merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in Thy manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under Thy table. But Thou art the same Lord, whose property is always to have mercy. Grant us therefore, gracious Lord, so to
partake of this Sacrament of Thy Son Jesus Christ, that we may walk in newness of life, may grow into His likeness, and may evermore dwell in Him, and He in us. Amen.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, grant us Thy peace.
DISTRIBUTION OF THE ELEMENTS:
PRAYER OF CONSECREATION: “O Lord, our heavenly Father, we, Thy humble servants, desire Thy fatherly goodness mercifully to accept this our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; most humbly beseeching Thee to grant, that, by the merits and death of Thy Son Jesus Christ, and through faith in His blood, we and Thy whole Church may obtain forgiveness of our sins, and all other benefits of His passion. And here we offer and present unto Thee, O Lord, ourselves, our souls and bodies, to be a reasonable, holy, and lively sacrifice unto Thee; humbly beseeching Thee that all we who are partakers of this Holy Communion may be filled with Thy grace and heavenly benediction. And although we be unworthy, through our manifold sins, to offer unto Thee any sacrifice, yet we beseech Thee to accept this our bounden duty and service, not weighing our merits, but pardoning our offenses; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom, and with whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honor and glory be unto Thee, O Father Almighty, world without end. Amen.
HYMN OF DEDICATON: “How Can We Sinners Know” #372
*ALLELUIA *BENEDICTION *POSTLUDE
Altar is open for prayer. You are welcome to come to the Altar, praying for someone or praying for self with commitment to Christ for the first time or for rededication of your life to Him. Someone will join you at the Altar to pray with you.
RECORD OF FAITHFULNESS & STEWARDSHIP FOR January 27, 2008
ATTENDANCE:(76,65/141) TOTAL OFFERING:$5,246.20
GENERAL:$1,483.00 DESIGNATED:$3,763.20
THOSE WHO ARE SERVING TODAY: 11:00 AM
WORSHIP LEADER: Glenn Godoy
GREETERS: Bill & Abby Woodward
NURSERY: Sandhya Naik
USHER: Rich Henry
AUDIO: Bill Jubin
JR. CHURCH: Sue Bongiorno
IT’S TIME TO ORDER YOUR EASTER PLANT!
Easter Lillies—5 bloom $8.50
Hyacinths—3 flower (6 inch pot) $7.25
Daffodils—(6 inch pot) $7.25
Mums—(6 inch pot) $7.95
Tulips—3 flower (4 inch pot) $3.95
6 flower (6 inch pot) $7.25
To order your Easter plants please fill out the form below. Thank you.
In honor of_______________________________________________
In memory of_____________________________________________
Presented by______________________________________________
Will pick-up______________________________________________
Deliver to a shut-in_________________________________________ PRACTICE FOR THE EASTER CANTATA-“Behold! God’s Holy Lamb” by Mark Hayes. We are practicing Wednesday nights at 7:30 pm. All are welcome
ECUMENICAL LUNCHEON FOR LADIES-Maine Federated Church will be hosting this luncheon on Ash Wednesday, February 6 at 11:00am at the Maine Federated Church. Please join us! Please call 748-6329 to sign-up. Looking forward to seeing you there.
COUPLE’S BANQUET-Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. Guest speaker will be Dr. George Miller. There will be a sign-up sheet in the Narthex. The youth will be serving.
JEREMIAH PEOPLE-Will be in concert at Union Center UMC on Saturday, February 23, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. The Jeremiah People have wowed audiences for nearly 30 years with their unique style of music, laughter and drama. The mission of the Jeremiah People is to inspire the church, energize the family and challenge believers and non-believers alike with the message of Hope found in Jesus Christ.
FIVE FOR FIVE CONCERT-April 11, 2008. Sponsored by UCUMC. This concert will be held at Boulevard UMC, Binghamton. There will be five National Christian bands performing. Tickets may be purchased at Arrowhead and Ticket-tron at the price of $5.00. This is a mega Youth event! Call the Church office for more information. 607-748-6329.
BUILDING PROJECT FUNDRAISER EVENT-April, 2008. For more information contact Deborah Eckhardt at 772-2472.
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY’S DAFFODIL DAYS-Every year, the American Cancer Society welcomes the arrival of Spring with thousands of Daffodils. The magnificent flower is also the Society’s Symbol of Hope…that cancer will be eliminated as a major health problem. It is our hope that you will join us in continuing to make a difference in the fight against cancer by participating in the Daffodil Days campaign. A bunch of 10 fresh-cut daffodils is $10 each, potted plants are $10 each, a Bear and a Bunch is $25 each. Place your order by February 22. Please place your order by calling the Church office at 748-6329 or you may order online at http://daffodil.acsevents.org/southern_ny. Thank you for supporting our goal to conquer cancer! Peg Blackman, Daffodil Coordinator.
DANIEL AND THE LIONS’ DEN BUS TRIP-On April 16 to Lancaster, PA. Back by popular demand “Daniel and the Lions’ Den” returns to the Sight & Sound Theatre. Your faith will be encouraged as you witness Daniel stand against the evil of his day. Trip includes shopping, lunch at Bird in Hand Restaurant and the 4pm show. Adults/$90, Teens$75 and children 12 and under $60. Call St. Joseph’s Church, Endicott, parish office, 748-0442 (9-4 M-F) for more information.
COUPLE’S BANQUET-Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. Guest speaker will be Dr. George Miller. There will be a sign-up sheet in the Narthex. The youth will be serving.
JEREMIAH PEOPLE-Will be in concert at Union Center UMC on Saturday, February 23, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. The Jeremiah People have wowed audiences for nearly 30 years with their unique style of music, laughter and drama. The mission of the Jeremiah People is to inspire the church, energize the family and challenge believers and non-believers alike with the message of Hope found in Jesus Christ.
FIVE FOR FIVE CONCERT-April 11, 2008. Sponsored by UCUMC. This concert will be held at Boulevard UMC, Binghamton. There will be five National Christian bands performing. Tickets may be purchased at Arrowhead and Ticket-tron at the price of $5.00. This is a mega Youth event! Call the Church office for more information. 607-748-6329.
BUILDING PROJECT FUNDRAISER EVENT-April, 2008. For more information contact Deborah Eckhardt at 772-2472.
ECUMENICAL LUNCHEON FOR LADIES-Maine Federated Church will be hosting this luncheon on Ash Wednesday, February 6 at 11:00am at the Maine Federated Church. Please join us! R.S.V.P. by January 28. Please call 748-6329 to sign-up. Looking forward to seeing you there.
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY’S DAFFODIL DAYS-Every year, the American Cancer Society welcomes the arrival of Spring with thousands of Daffodils. The magnificent flower is also the Society’s Symbol of Hope…that cancer will be eliminated as a major health problem. It is our hope that you will join us in continuing to make a difference in the fight against cancer by participating in the Daffodil Days campaign. A bunch of 10 fresh-cut daffodils is $10 each, potted plants are $10 each, a Bear and a Bunch is $25 each. Place your order by February 22. Please place your order by calling the Church office at 748-6329 or you may order online at http://daffodil.acsevents.org/southern_ny. Thank you for supporting our goal to conquer cancer! Peg Blackman, Daffodil Coordinator.
DANIEL AND THE LIONS’ DEN BUS TRIP-On April 16 to Lancaster, PA. Back by popular demand “Daniel and the Lions’ Den” returns to the Sight & Sound Theatre. Your faith will be encouraged as you witness Daniel stand against the evil of his day. Trip includes shopping, lunch at Bird in Hand Restaurant and the 4pm show. Adults/$90, Teens$75 and children 12 and under $60. Call St. Joseph’s Church, Endicott, parish office, 748-0442 (9-4 M-F) for more information.
IT’S TIME TO ORDER YOUR EASTER PLANT!
Easter Lillies—5 bloom $8.50
Hyacinths—3 flower (6 inch pot) $7.25
Daffodils—(6 inch pot) $7.25
Mums—(6 inch pot) $7.95
Tulips—3 flower (4 inch pot) $3.95
6 flower (6 inch pot) $7.25
To order your Easter plants please fill out the form below. Thank you.
In honor of_______________________________________________
In memory of_____________________________________________
Presented by______________________________________________
Will pick-up______________________________________________
Deliver to a shut-in_________________________________________
PRACTICE FOR THE EASTER
CANTATA--“Behold! God’s Holy
Lamb” by Mark Hayes. We are practicing Wednesday nights at 7:30 pm. All
are welcome.
THE WONDERFUL CROSS
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose, so rich a crown?
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live.
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross;
All who gather here by grace draw near
And bless your name.
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were an off’ring far too small.
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live.
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross;
All who gather here by grace draw near
And bless your name.
THE WONDERFUL CROSS
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose, so rich a crown?
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live.
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross;
All who gather here by grace draw near
And bless your name.
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were an off’ring far too small.
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live.
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross;
All who gather here by grace draw near
And bless your name.
Open My Eyes, That I May See
Waking up. It really is an amazing process. At one moment you are sound asleep, perhaps dreaming, perhaps not. At another moment you are wide awake, consciously experiencing all of your senses. Between those moments is a process--the process of awakening. Sometimes it happens very quickly; other times it happens very slowly. During the process, the real and the unreal are sometimes blurred. Distinguishing between what is dream and what is real can be quite difficult. It is a matter of perceiving things that are real--perceiving things that are true. Sometimes you might even need someone to say something to you so that you will finish waking up. Once you are awake, it amazes you that you couldn't see the truth all along.
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The lectionary passages this week all have something to do with the way that people perceive and understand God. Moses prepared to go up on a mountain to receive God's law. He and all of the people of Israel could see signs of God's presence on that mountain. Moses could have decided to portray God to the Israelites in a form that the people might have wanted. Read on in the story and you will find that their vision of God did not correspond with the reality of God. Fortunately for Israel--and for us today--Moses opened his eyes to see the true God. The Psalmist continually uses perceptions and images. This time he declares the power and holiness of God. The Gospel story of the transfiguration is rich in images and symbolism. When the disciples began focusing on the event instead of focusing on the Lord, a voice from heaven gave them a "wake up call." The lesson from the epistles reminds us that we need to look for what God does, and not for what we think God "should do." This week's suggested hymn asks for God's help in seeing, in hearing, and in sharing. The words and music were written by Clara H. Scott (1841-1897), who was a native of Illinois and taught music at the Ladies' Seminary in Lyons, Iowa. Here are the words. Open my eyes, that I may see |
Open My Eyes, That I May See
Waking up. It really is an amazing process. At one moment you are sound asleep, perhaps dreaming, perhaps not. At another moment you are wide awake, consciously experiencing all of your senses. Between those moments is a process--the process of awakening. Sometimes it happens very quickly; other times it happens very slowly. During the process, the real and the unreal are sometimes blurred. Distinguishing between what is dream and what is real can be quite difficult. It is a matter of perceiving things that are real--perceiving things that are true. Sometimes you might even need someone to say something to you so that you will finish waking up. Once you are awake, it amazes you that you couldn't see the truth all along.
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The lectionary passages this week all have something to do with the way that people perceive and understand God. Moses prepared to go up on a mountain to receive God's law. He and all of the people of Israel could see signs of God's presence on that mountain. Moses could have decided to portray God to the Israelites in a form that the people might have wanted. Read on in the story and you will find that their vision of God did not correspond with the reality of God. Fortunately for Israel--and for us today--Moses opened his eyes to see the true God. The Psalmist continually uses perceptions and images. This time he declares the power and holiness of God. The Gospel story of the transfiguration is rich in images and symbolism. When the disciples began focusing on the event instead of focusing on the Lord, a voice from heaven gave them a "wake up call." The lesson from the epistles reminds us that we need to look for what God does, and not for what we think God "should do." This week's suggested hymn asks for God's help in seeing, in hearing, and in sharing. The words and music were written by Clara H. Scott (1841-1897), who was a native of Illinois and taught music at the Ladies' Seminary in Lyons, Iowa. Here are the words. Open my eyes, that I may see |
WESLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
CHURCH OFFICE (785-5349) OR 748-6329 PASTOR BROWN 748-1358
February 3, 2008 COMMUNION SUNDAY 8:30 AM
PRE-SERVICE MUSIC 9:25 AM
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
*GREETINGS & GATHERINGS: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20 KJV
*CALL TO WORSHIP:
Leader: I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh.
People: The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the same loaf.
Leader: Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.
People: Christ our Paschal Lamb is offered up for us, once for all, when He bore our sins on His body upon the cross; for He is the very Lamb of God that taketh away the sins for the world: wherefore let us keep a joyful and holy feast with the Lord.
ALL: What no eye has seen, nor ear hear, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him, God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
*HYMN OF PRAISE: “Lift High the Cross” #159
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH: The Apostles’ Creed #881
UNISON PRAYER: “Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Thy Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love Thee, and worthily magnify Thy holy name. Lord God, Your ways are holy and good and Your love is strong and true. You are swift to answer those who trust in You, those who walk in Your ways and who make Your living Word their daily hope. Bless, we pray, our gathering today. Touch our hearts and our minds with the fire of Your Holy Spirit. Grant that our praise may be more than words, our prayer more than speech, our songs more than mere harmony. Teach us and comfort us, strengthen us and lead us that we might draw closer to You. We ask it in Jesus' name who has taught us to pray:”
THE LORD’S PRAYER
SHARING IN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When evildoers assail me, uttering slanders against me, my adversaries and foes, they shall stumble and fall. Though a host encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident.” Psalm 27:1-3 RSV
Welcoming Each Other into the House of the Lord
Sharing Of Our joys and blessings
Sharing our Prayer Concerns
PRAYER VERSE: “One thing have I asked of the LORD,
that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days
of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD,
and to inquire in His temple. For He will hide me in His shelter in the day of
trouble; He will conceal me under the cover of His tent, He will set me high
upon a rock.” Psalm
27:4,5 RSV
MORNING PRAYER
SPECIAL MUSIC: Lisa McBride
OFFERTORY VERSE: “I believe that I shall see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living! Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yea, wait for the LORD!” Psalm 27:13,14 RSV
Presentations of Tithes and Offerings
*DOXOLOGY #95
*HYMN OF PREPARATION: “Open My Eyes, That I May See” #454
SCRIPTURE: Matthew 17:1-9 Pew Bible #1524
MESSAGE: “Hills and Valleys” Pastor Brown
COMMUNION SERVICE: #26
*HYMN OF INVITATION: “Victory In Jesus” #370
*BENEDICTION
Open My Eyes, That I May See
Waking up. It really is an amazing process. At one moment you are sound asleep, perhaps dreaming, perhaps not. At another moment you are wide awake, consciously experiencing all of your senses. Between those moments is a process--the process of awakening. Sometimes it happens very quickly; other times it happens very slowly. During the process, the real and the unreal are sometimes blurred. Distinguishing between what is dream and what is real can be quite difficult. It is a matter of perceiving things that are real--perceiving things that are true. Sometimes you might even need someone to say something to you so that you will finish waking up. Once you are awake, it amazes you that you couldn't see the truth all along.
|
The lectionary passages this week all have something to do with the way that people perceive and understand God. Moses prepared to go up on a mountain to receive God's law. He and all of the people of Israel could see signs of God's presence on that mountain. Moses could have decided to portray God to the Israelites in a form that the people might have wanted. Read on in the story and you will find that their vision of God did not correspond with the reality of God. Fortunately for Israel--and for us today--Moses opened his eyes to see the true God. The Psalmist continually uses perceptions and images. This time he declares the power and holiness of God. The Gospel story of the transfiguration is rich in images and symbolism. When the disciples began focusing on the event instead of focusing on the Lord, a voice from heaven gave them a "wake up call." The lesson from the epistles reminds us that we need to look for what God does, and not for what we think God "should do." This week's suggested hymn asks for God's help in seeing, in hearing, and in sharing. The words and music were written by Clara H. Scott (1841-1897), who was a native of Illinois and taught music at the Ladies' Seminary in Lyons, Iowa. Here are the words. Open my eyes, that I may see |
SUPERBOWL PARTY AT UCUMC-We will be starting at 5:00 p.m. Please bring your favorite snack to pass. Come join us for a time of fellowship and fun!
SUPERBOWL PARTY AT UCUMC-We will be starting at 5:00 p.m. Please bring your favorite snack to pass. Come join us for a time of fellowship and fun!