First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany

February 19th, 2023

Photo by Amanda Taylor

Gathering

It may help to center yourself into worship by lighting a candle, as a symbol of God’s presence with you during the time of worship. You may also want to pay attention to lighting, the position of your body, and the availability of distractions.

Breath Prayer

“You welcome us in, time and time again.”

Prelude

“Praise Him, All Ye Little Children” by Carey Bonner, Arranged by Charles Callahan

Call to Worship

One: Breathe in, breathe out, let yourself be here.
Many: We are here, together!
One: Breathe in, breathe out, find your center here.
Many: God is with us!

Hymn #2114: “At the Font We Start Our Journey”

Praying

Unison Prayer

God of Mountaintops and Valleys,
God of Rainforests and Deserts,
As we gather today,
we prepare to welcome beloveds into this Body of Christ,
and we are so excited!
We are excited for what you are doing in their lives,
and in ours.
We are reminded of the wonders of life,
and of community,
and the joy that comes from connecting with each other
in you.
In days when we are hurting,
remind us of the celebrations of each person,
and our place in your loving family.
When we are parched,
remind us of the flowing waters of baptism
that run through our lives. Amen

Cares and Celebrations

Silent Prayer

Photo by Elaine Troy

Pastoral Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father (Creator)
who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power,
and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Listening and Reflecting

Scripture Reading: Zechariah 8:1-8

Poem: “May we raise children who love unloved things” by Nicolette Sowder

Time With Young People

Baptisms

Hymn #611: Child of Blessing, Child of Promise

Scripture Reading: Luke 7:24-35

Sermon: “There is No Single Way to Follow Jesus”, Rev. Sara E. Baron

Responding

Offertory: “Children of the Heavenly Father”, Traditional Swedish Melody, Arranged by Don Phillips

A Time to Consider Offering

Photo by Larry McArthur
If you wish, you are welcome to use this time to make a donation to the church online, or to put a check in the mail.
The time of offering is not only about our financial gifts to the church, it is about offering our lives to God and the building of the kindom. This is a time for reflection: What is being asked of us? What is being given to us? What are we able to offer? What do we need?

Offertory Prayer

For gifts of a baby’s laughter and sunshine.
For gifts of crisp mornings and rainbows of autumn leaves.
For gifts of a quiet moment and warm cup of tea.
For these and all the gifts given,
May we give them back to the world in need of more love, more care,
and more peace. Amen.

A Prayer of the Body of Christ

Hymn #605: “Wash, O God, Our Sons and Daughters”

Benediction

Postlude: “Praise and Thanksgiving Be to God” from the Paris Antiphoner, 1681