Prelude
Welcome
Special Message – Wear Orange
Sharing the Peace of Christ
Hymn Behold a Broken World, v. 1-4 UMH 426
Call to Worship
Leader: Let this be the place of welcome,
a place for returning and renewing.
People: A place where we feel your presence!
Leader: Let this be the place of love,
a place where every child of God is embraced.
People: A place where we experience your unconditional love!
Leader: Let this be the place of hope,
a place where God makes all things new.
People: A place where our we feel your comfort and can face our fears!
Leader: Let this be a place of love,
a place where the Holy Spirit lives and works in us all.
People: Let your love surround us!
Hymn Lord, I Want to Be a Christian (UMH 402)
Children’s Message
Children’s Hymn Jesus Loves Me, v. 1 (UMH 191)
Opening Prayer
God of love, of light and truth, we embrace your continued presence in our lives. In the brightness of your presence the angels reveal their faces. We revel in your love given unconditionally. We seek your guidance when we are lost and confused. We follow your model, acting in a way that spreads love and brings peace. And we are grateful for your acceptance even when we mess things up. With reverence and adoring love we acclaim your glory and sing your praise, for you have shown us your truth and love in Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.
New Testament Readings Matthew 5:43-48; Matthew 22:34-40;
1 John 4: 7-12, 1 John 4:15-21
Leader: The word of God for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God.
Message An Alternative Plan
Hymn Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise (UMH 103)
Giving Our Tithes and Offerings
Offertory
Doxology (UMH 94)
Prayer of Thanksgiving
God, thank you for being with us today and always. Through the life of your son Jesus, you have given us hope and incentive to spread your light. Through our many gifts, help us bring your light to the world at a time when there is so much temptation to live in darkness. Enlighten us to choose love, truth, and hope so that we may reflect your Light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Prayers of the People
The Lord’s Prayer (UMH 895)
Sending Forth They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love (FWS 2223)
Benediction
Postlude
