Worship for the Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

September 12, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“Teach us of equality, Holy One.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“The Heart of Peace” by Mons Leidvin Takle

Call to Worship

One: Siblings in Christ, come, take a seat.
Many: We gather to worship the Great Equalizer.
One: Beloveds of God, prepare your hearts for worship.
Many: We let go of the hierarchies of the world, to enter into the realm of God.

Hymn: For Everyone Born

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

God of All of History,
Twenty years ago, the United States was united in grief and horror.
We remember when the towers fell and the lives were lost;
we remember the dust and the smoke, the despair, and the grief.
We remember that sense of vulnerability and shock.
We remember the heroes, those who rushed to help,
who guided the wounded down innumerable flights of stairs,
who rose to overwhelm those who held death in their hands.
We remember the hours and the days of binding wounds
and healing hurts, giving comfort, drying tears.
We remember words of support and compassion
from nations far and wide. We remember.
As we remember,
may we seek justice and peace where it is within our ability,
and rely on you when the ability escapes us.
May we live your love when hate seems to reign.
May we bear witness to the cause of peace.
Amen

Silent Prayer

Pastoral Prayer

God of All History,
September 11th, 2001 existed within the bounds of history.
Those who attacked were responding to experiences in their own lives, and
those who protected responded to experiences in their lives.
Countless people acted out of selfless love,
many of whom sacrificed everything.
Loved ones of those who died still grieve.
Our national history was transformed on that day.
Our war in Afghanistan started,
asking huge sacrifices of those who serve in our military,
and even more from Afghani citizens who worked with us.
Twenty years later we look in horror at the ways we’ve abandoned our allies,
and at the outcome of our presence.
Life transformed on that day,
and the impacts are felt deeply today.
Loving God, we have so many requests of you:
be a source of strength and peace to those
who are grieving,
be a source of hope to those
who are still hurting,
be a source of wisdom to those
who make decisions,
be a source of grace to those
who have been harmed,
be a meaning maker for all of us,
that we can take from our history the
motivation to do better,
and leave behind the anger that would
guide us to do more harm.
Amen

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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

“Dona Nobis Pacem by Mark Miller

Children’s Time – James on the Rich and the Poor

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #592: When the Church of Jesus

Scripture Reading – James 2:1-10, 14-17

Sermon – Mutuality

Responding

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: “I Want Jesus to Walk With Me” by Edward Boatner

Prayer of Presentation

God of Equity,
You know us.
You know what we have, and what we don’t have.
You know what we can give, and
what we simply cannot give.
We offer to You our prayers, our presence, our gifts,
our service, and our witness.
We offer it to You in gratitude for what we have,
and in hope for what might be.
We give knowing that we can only give of what we have.
We give trusting that you will make what we have given a blessing to others. We give in hope and trust.
Amen

Hymn #729: O Day of Peace That Dimly Shines

Benediction

May God guide us toward mutuality, towards authentic connections, toward humility, and always – always – towards love! Amen

Postlude

“Processional in F# minor” by Stephen H. Best

Worship for the Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

September 5, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“Slow us down, God of eternity.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Gather Us In” by Marty Haugen (arr. John Behnke)

Call to Worship

One: Gentle hearts, gather peace.
Many: We trust that the God of Peace is with us.
One: People who do good, gather wisdom.
Many: We trust that the God of Wisdom is with us.
One: Care givers, gather love.
Many: We trust that the God of Love is with us.

Hymn #430: O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

Eternal God,
We leap to respond.
We leap to answer.
We leap to act.
Often we leap too fast.
We forget to look, plan, assess,
and check our assumptions.
Help us leap to listen,
but be slow to respond.
Help us leap to care,
but be slow to anger.
Help us leap to love,
but be wise in our actions.
Help us, eternal one,
to remember that
we have enough time
to slow down,
even now.
Amen

Silent 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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

We Give Thee But Thine Own by Fred Gramman

Mission Moment – UMCOR Hurricane Ida

Jan Huston

Another disaster = Another time when Christian Love in Action is needed!
In response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Ida, much of which is still becoming clear, UMCOR remains in prayer for the many communities impacted by this major storm.
UMCOR is in coordination with conference disaster response coordinators in the region to assess the scale of damage and has awarded a grant to the Louisiana Conference to support initial emergency relief efforts.
Once the situation evolves, early response teams will be invited by the conference to help with needs such as debris removal and the tarping of roofs.

Join the work of U.S. Disaster Response by making a gift:

• Write a check to FUMC with 901670 or US Disaster Response in the notation
• Give cash in the donation box using an envelope labeled UMCOR
• Give online on FUMC’s website
• Give online at the UMC Mission project website

Children’s Time – What is Religion?

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn: Be Doers of the Word of God

Scripture Reading – James 1:17-27

Sermon – Interconnected

Responding

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: “Bwana Awabariki” by Eugen Butler

Prayer of Presentation

Generous, giving God;
we offer our gifts to you in gratitude for all the blessings you rain down upon us.
Your sunshine warms us, your earth feeds us, and your word nourishes us.
More than just gifts of money, we give ourselves — our time and our energy— that we might be doers of your word and not just hearers only.
Amen.

Hymn #438: Forth In Thy Name, O Lord

Benediction

Dear ones, be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. In doing so, you make space for God to work! Amen

Postlude

“Jubilation” by Fred Gramann

Worship for the Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost

August 29, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“Heart / of my own heart.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Chanson” by Kevin Norris

Call to Worship

One: Like the sweetness of an August tomato,
Many: God surprises us with goodness.
One: Like the juicy goodness of a summer peach,
Many: God’s love cannot be contained.
One: Like the robust flavor of fresh sweet corn,
Many: God’s wonders are beyond our imagination.

Hymn #544: Like the Murmur of the Dove’s Song

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

One Who Sees Us Clearly,
You love us.
You see who we are, what we do, how we act,
and you love us.
Your love is not conditional,
nor is it generic.
You know us and love us.
What a basis that is for our lives!
We are known,
and we are loved as we are.
Holy One,
may we live out your love.
Amen

Silent 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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

The Gift of Love by Hal Hopson

Children’s Time – Power of Love

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #430: O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee

Scripture Reading – Song of Solomon 2:8-13

Sermon – Friend, Lover, Parent

Responding

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: “Siyahamba”

Prayer of Presentation

Heart of our own hearts,
When it comes to friends and family,
what we have is theirs.
When it comes to you,
all that we have we hold in trust from you.
As we give to you of our time, our talents,
and our treasures,
we ask that you receive them,
bless them with wisdom,
and use them with abundance.
We give out of our gratitude,
and we give with hope.
Amen

Hymn #572: Pass it On

Benediction

The God Who Is knows you as you are, loves you as you are, and is ready to connect with you when you are ready. May you find your ways to connect with the Holy One! Amen

Postlude

“Festive Trumpet Tune” by David German

Worship for the Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

August 22, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“My soul / longs for You.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Sicilienne” by Maria Teresa von Paradis

Call to Worship

One: As we move through the dry valleys of life,
Many: God is with us.
One: As we walk the stony paths of life,
Many: God is with us.
One: When we reach mountaintops,
Many: God is with us.
One: No matter where we go.
Many: God is with us.

Hymn #147: All Things Bright and Beautiful

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

You Who Are,
With you there is abiding peace,
profound joy,
never-ending love,
hope without end.
Your presence brings us strength,
wisdom, and healing.
We seek you,
sometimes we even seek you well.
May our hearts be opened,
so we can feel you
seeking us
too.
Amen

Silent 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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

For the Beauty of the Earth by John Rutter

Mission Moment

Haiti Earthquake – Jan Huston

UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) is working with partners in Haiti to how to best meet the immediate needs of survivors following last week’s devastating earthquake. We can help by making a gift to International Disaster Response. You can do this by giving a check to FUMC with “disaster response” in the notation, by giving online on the FUMC website, or by giving online at the UMCOR website using the link mentioned.

Children’s Time – God’s House

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #2042: How Lovely, Lord, How Lovely

Scripture Reading – Psalm 84

Sermon – Blessings on the Journey

Responding

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: “You Are Holy” by Per Harling

Prayer of Presentation

You Who Are,
All of creation sings of your glory.
While we continue to wait to sing together,
we offer our praises in other ways.
May the gifts that we give be received for the
building of the kindom.
May they be used with generosity and abundance.
May wisdom guide those who decide how to
share your gifts. Amen

Hymn #140: Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Benediction

May you find that life-giving rain comes early, and God’s blessings are abundant along your journey! Amen

Postlude

“Rondeau” by Jean Joseph Mouret

Worship for the Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

August 15, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“Grant us wisdom, for the facing of these days.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Ave Maria” by Giulio Caccini

Call to Worship

One: We center ourselves for worship.
Many: We come as wisdom seekers.
One: Grant us wisdom.
Many: We come to discern together.
One: Grant us compassion.
Many: Guide us, Holy One.

Hymn #577: God of Grace and God of Glory

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

Wisdom,
The world feels heavy on opinions,
and light on wisdom these days.
We are out of our depths,
trying to swim in murky waters with unknown undertows.
Yet we know you are with us,
we know you care,
we know you can guide us.
Show us the way
to listen well enough to you
that we can traverse these days
with grace and compassion.
Amen

Silent 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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

Ubi Caritas by Michael John Trotta

Children’s Time – Solomon and Big Tasks

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #451: Be Thou My Vision

Scripture Reading – 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14

Sermon – The Fabled Wisdom of Solomon

Responding

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: “I’m Gonna Sing ‘Til the Spirit Moves in My Heart” by Moses Hogan

https://youtu.be/KgXvSbGtexo

Prayer of Presentation

Wise One,
You are the trust worthy one, but you trust us with the care of this world!
Guide our actions and our words,
bless our gifts and let them be useful to share your love.
Amen

Hymn #130: God Will Take Care of You

Benediction

May God’s wisdom guide you, bit by bit, until you find your way. Amen

Postlude

“God Who Stretched the Spangled Heavens” by Cathy Mokelbust

Worship for the Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost

August 8, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“Grant us rest, Holy One.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

Prelude from “Lyric Suite” by Alfred V. Fedak

Call to Worship

One: When we are in the pits of despair,
Many: God is still with us.
One: When we’re beyond exhaustion,
Many: God is still with us.
One: When we feel all alone,
Many: God is still with us.
One: When hope is far away
Many: God is still with us.
One: No matter who we are or where we go,
Many: God is with us.

Hymn #505: When Our Confidence Is Shaken

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

Holy One,
You who are always with us,
Help us accept your gifts:
the rest, the nourishment, the hydration, and the love.
Remind us not to empty our own wells,
and to allow you to refill them.
Help us let ourselves rest – and act –
and be revived.
Amen

Silent Prayer

Pastoral Prayer

Holy One,
You are with us day in and day out,
loving, supporting, and encouraging us.
You know us.
You see what we do, and what we don’t do,
you hear what we say, and what we refrain from saying.
You love us as we are.
You know what we need, and what we can do,
you encourage us.
You see the pain of the world, and
you respond with love.
You hear the aching of our hearts, and you
seek to heal.
You see the injustices, and you seek justice.
Remind us to trust you,
not only to guide us,
but also to help us along the way.
Remind us that we do not have to be all things,
nor do all things,
but simply respond to your love
in kind.
Amen

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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

Will You Come and Follow Me by Tom Trenney

Scripture Reading – Psalm 14

Children’s Time – Elijah, Angels, and Comfort

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #2202: Come Away With Me

Scripture Reading – 1 Kings 19:4-8

Sermon – God, Stress, and Abundant Lives

Responding

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: “On God and Not Human Trust” by Johann Pachelbel

Prayer of Presentation

Holy One who is always with us,
Your gifts bring us life, and life abundant.
May we savor what you offer, and
give it away with generosity.
Amen

Hymn #334: Sweet, Sweet Spirit

Benediction

May you find rest, complete stress cycles, and be a blessing to God’s world.
Amen

Postlude

“Celebration” by Charles Callahan

Worship for the Tenth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Tenth Sunday after Pentecost

August 1, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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 who are / help us be.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Lord of the Dance” by Charles Callahan

Call to Worship

One: Wherever you’ve been on your journey, welcome.
Many: God invites us all in.
One: Wherever you are on your journey, welcome.
Many: God loves us as we are.
One: Wherever you are going on your journey, welcome.
Many: Wherever we go, God is with us.

Hymn #127: Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

God Who Listens,
You listen to what we say, and what we don’t say,
what we do and what we don’t do,
what we want and what we need,
who we love,
and what we fear.
You know us, and you listen to us.
Being heard, being known, being loved heals us.
Help us listen, like you Holy One.
Help us listen with compassion,
help us listen to understand and to heal.
Amen

Silent Prayer

Pastoral Prayer

God We Can Trust,
As the people learned to trust you in the desert,
we too are learning to trust you when
our lives are disrupted and disjointed.
When we struggle, we can remember
you are close at hand.
When we worry, we can rely on you.
Open our hearts to you, to each other,
to all the world,
so that we can be your love,
and you can heal us all.
Amen

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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

Lord of the Dance

Scripture Reading – Psalm 14

Children’s Time – Trusting God in the Desert

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #2126: All Who Hunger

Scripture Reading – Exodus 16: 2-4, 9-15

Sermon – Every. Single. Time.

Responding

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: “My Lord, What a Morning” by Lois Land

Prayer of Presentation

God who listens and cares,
You have given us so much, and
we seek to respond with our gratitude.
May the gifts that we offer to you and
your kindom be blessed,
to be used with wisdom and compassion.
Amen

Hymn #463: Lord, Speak to Me, That I May Speak

Benediction

God is trustworthy, God feeds us, God listens and cares. Go, trusting God, and receiving God’s gifts. Amen

Postlude

“Fantasia” by Johann Pachelbel

Worship for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

July 25, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“God of silence, help us listen”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Offertoire” by Théodore Dubois

Call to Worship

One: Speaking truth is hard work.
Many: People don’t like it.
One: Speaking truth is holy work.
Many: It is a piece of God’s loving labor.

Hymn #395: Take Time to Be Holy

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

One who calls prophets, One who calls teachers,
One who calls artists, One who calls healers,
One who calls us all,
The work you ask us to do for the kindom is so diverse.
Sometimes it even seems at odds with itself,
but you are the mastermind,
the one who sees,
the one who finds in chaos
the capacity to build love.
Help us listen to what you ask of us,
and trust each other
even when what we’re called to do differs.
Help us be faithful to what you ask of us,
and supportive of all. Amen

Silent Prayer

Pastoral Prayer

God of words, and no words,
Humans fight about authority – who
has it right and who has it wrong (and
how they can prove it).
Sometimes when someone is really
great at something, we assume they
know more about everything. But they
don’t.
Sometimes when someone is really
smart in one area, we assume they
know about other areas too, but they
don’t.
We don’t know who to trust, or how to
decide.
We don’t know where authority lies.
And often we struggle to trust ourselves, and to trust our own sense of your wisdom.
But you are with us anyway. And we have wisdom anyway.
Guide us towards you, and towards ourselves.
Help us find our way to trust.
To letting go of authority, and leaning into grace. Amen

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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

We Give Thee But Thine Own by Neil Harmon

Scripture Reading – Psalm 14

Children’s Time – Candles

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #400: Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Scripture Reading – 2 Samuel 11:1-15

Sermon – A God Who Cares (about people)

Responding

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: “For the Beauty of the Earth” by Calvin Hampton

Prayer of Presentation

God of silence, God of words,
You know both what we give and what we keep.
Bless them both.
Bless all of our lives, all of our work, all of our
relationships, all of our contributions.
We seek to give them to you,
to be used in the service of love.
Amen

Hymn #426: Behold a Broken World

Benediction

Dear ones, God is talking to you. Maybe in the quiet, maybe in the chaos,
but God is talking. Listen. It will bless you. Amen

Postlude

“Tuba Tune” by C. S. Lang

Worship for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

July 18, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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 are / always with us.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Cantilene” by Malcolm Archer

Call to Worship

One: Our Holy One, the one who cares for us, invites us to worship.
Many: In worship, we are led to safe, still waters.
One: God notices, and cares for our needs.
Many: God invites us to see the needs of others.
One: God offers us rest,
Many: and God calls us to action.
One: In all that we are, God is with us.
Many: Thanks be to God.

Hymn #518: O Thou, In Whose Presence

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

Good Shepherd,
If we’re honest, sheep are quite dependent on their shepherds.
If we’re honest, we’re quite dependent on you.
This isn’t always comfortable, or easy, but it is true.
We’re dependent on each other too.
Help us, Holy One, to be dependable for each other,
because we keep on learning to be dependent on you.
Amen

Silent Prayer

Pastoral Prayer

Good Shepherd,
A shepherd is only as good as their care for their sheep.
What a funny thing to remember that you are inter-dependent with us.
What a wonderful thing to consider that we truly matter to you.
For millennia, people have been relieved to think of you caring for us as a shepherd cares for their vulnerable sheep.
It seems we know we are vulnerable, and need of care.
Yet often we fight it, and fight you, and act like toddlers wanting to do everything ourselves.
Guide us, Holy One, to the wisdom of interdependence. Help us find empathy for ourselves and for others.
Open our hearts.
Amen

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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

Way Maker by Sinach

Mission Moment: Update from Belinda Forbes

FUMC is fortunate to have a Covenant Relationship with our missionary, Dr. Belinda Forbes. Belinda is a United Methodist dentist living and working in Nicaragua. She works with Acción Médica Cristiana (Christian Medical Action). This agency works to improve the health and well-being of Nicaraguan people, particularly in the poorer regions of this country which is the second poorest in our hemisphere. Many of us have had an opportunity to meet Belinda when she has visited her supporting churches. Some of us have experienced awe and respect while working with her and her agency in Nicaragua. We are pleased that we are able to contribute a small part to their work.

Belinda has sent an email updating her work and that of AMC. She has included a 2-minute video that highlights the work that we are able to help support. We hope you will watch the video and learn more about how God’s love is shared through our missionary support. Watch Belinda’s Video here. Her email to us is:

Greetings,
Friends and Supporters of Mission in Nicaragua!
My best wishes for health and safety in this time when many readers in the US are reuniting with loved ones and getting outdoors, and churches are returning to in-person worship, or continuing with virtual gatherings, a space where I have been able to connect with you.
My thanks to you, especially to my supporting churches who have made their 2021 donation to missionary Advance 12109Z which allows me to serve and do my best to be a witness to Christ’s love in the world on your behalf. If you have not yet sent your support or have a specific time in the year when this is scheduled, please see the information below as a reminder for how to ensure that your gift
reaches the correct destination.

For a brief update on the mission you support in Nicaragua, the link below (above) is to a 2-minute video that can be used in worship or other mission meetings. If you would like the video file, please feel free to email me.
There is plenty of ongoing work in health and development as God
enables and empowers, more updates will follow!
May God bless each of you.
Grace and peace, Belinda
Dr. Belinda Forbes

Children’s Time – Jamaica Miles

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #2058: Shepherd Me, O God

Scripture Reading – Psalm 23

Sermon – Jamaica Miles

Responding

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: “Come to Me” by Dan Forrest

Prayer of Presentation

Caregiver,
As you have given to us so that we can be cared for,
we give our gifts to you to care for others.
Bless them. May they be used well, with wisdom, for your work.
May all that we give become useful to you.
Amen

Hymn #732: Come, We That Love the Lord

Benediction

Dearly beloved of God, take in the green pastures, and still waters,
the eternal presence always with you,
the mercy and hope of God,
savor it,
and share it. Amen

Postlude

“God Who Stretched the Spangled Heavens”

Worship for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

First United Methodist Church of Schenectady
Worship for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

July 11, 2021

Photo by Zach Long

Getting Centered

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

“Plumb line of our hearts, tune us to you.”
Breath prayers involve breathing in the first phrase, and breathing out the second.
You may wish to simply pray for a moment before starting, or you may wish to pray while listening to the prelude.

Prelude

“Jesu, Joy of Our Desiring” by Johann Sebastian Bach

Call to Worship

One: The God of Compassion calls us together.
Many: We seek to be living compassion.
One: The God of universal justice leads us on our ways.
Many: We seek to be sources of justice.
One: God sets a plumb line among the people.
Many: We are called to be God’s plumb line.

Photo from Sara E. Baron

Hymn #126: Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above

Connecting in Prayer

Shared Prayer

Holy Plumb Line,
How lucky we are to have your guidance.
You seek well-being for all your people,
you define justice with compassion,
you show us the way that leads to life.
When we are tempted to tip the truth in our favor,
you keep the line.
We seek to listen to your wisdom,
and be led by your compassionate justice.
Help us, Holy One.
Amen

Silent Prayer

Pastoral Prayer

God of Compassion,
Our hearts break with those who are grieving, knowing that the pain is immeasurably deep, and those who grieve are changed by their loss.
Our hearts break with those who are hungry, knowing that you seek a world where abundance is shared, and that each hungry person is a tragedy.
Our hearts break with those who are unhoused, whether in their own country or from their own country, knowing that being displaced shakes confidence in all that is good and trustworthy.
Our hearts break with those who are incarcerated, when broken lives meet broken systems that break families and communities all the more.
Our hearts break with those who have been told by church or faith community that they are unworthy of love, when all people are worth of your love and ours.
Our hearts break with those who are afraid, unable to provide for themselves or their loved ones, with no where to turn.
Our hearts break for the caregivers whose capacities have run out, and those who need care and can’t find the care they need.
Our hearts break for those living with addiction and trauma, fighting for well being when it is always an uphill battle.
Oh dear one, our hearts break, and break, and break.
We have caught glimpses of the world as it should be, and it is not the world as it is.
Our greatest hope is in knowing that your heart breaks, and others of your beloveds also live with broken hearts aware of the pain and suffering of those in this world, and willing to let the brokenness transform us, so we can be part of transforming the world.
May it be so. Amen

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.

Word and Reflection

Choir Anthem

The Ground by Ola Gjello

The heavens and the earth are filled with Your glory.
Hosanna, hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna, hosanna in the highest.
Lamb of God, who carries the sins of the world.
Grant us peace

Scripture: Amos 7:7-15

Children’s Time: Plumb Lines and Levels

Passing of the Peace

If you are worshiping with others, please pass the Peace of Christ.
Whether you are alone or with others, please take a moment to find God’s peace within, and then to share it with the world. You may want to reach out to speak peace to another during this week.

Hymn #433: All Who Love and Serve your City

Scripture Reading – Mark 6:14-29

Sermon: God’s Plumb Lines and Our Values

Responding

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: “Every Time I Feel the Spirit” by William Dawson

Prayer of Presentation

Plumb line of Compassion,
With the gifts we give to this community
and to the world,
we see to share your love, share our love,
and build the kindom.
Bless all that we give,
that it may be useful to your work,
and abundant in sharing your love.
Amen

Hymn #2223: They’ll Know We Are Christians By Our Love

Benediction (Franciscan)

May God bless us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and
superficial relationships, so that we may live deep within our hearts.
May God bless us with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that we may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless us with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain,
rejection, hunger, and war, so that we may reach out our hands to comfort them and turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless us with enough foolishness to believe that we can make a difference in this world, so that we can do what others claim cannot be done, to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.
Amen

Postlude

“I Want Jesus to Walk With Me” by Thomas Boatner