Bulletin

January 13, 2019
Remembering Jesus’ Baptism

Welcome, Acknowledgement, and Announcements
• Portions of the service printed in bold are spoken by the whole congregation. The asterisk (*) indicates congregation stands, but please feel free to sit at any time.
• Children are always welcome at our services. Books/toys are available at the front and back of the sanctuary.

Candle Lighting & Centring:
God calls to us. Right here in ordinary life. Are we listening? Will we join the conversation? What might happen next?

*Gathering Hymn: I Am the Light of the World #87 VU
(vs 1 & 4 with choruses)

Collect Prayer:
God, where do we find ourselves when the Christmas angels disappear, and no longer sing of peace and goodwill? When the shepherds go back to their flocks, and the magi return to the east? Where do we find ourselves now, when the Christ-child has outgrown his manger bed?
Jesus calls us to join him at the River Jordan, to be baptized with him, and receive the Holy Spirit.
May we find ourselves at the river, beside Jesus, today.
Amen.
Written by Fern Gibbard. Reprinted, with permission, from page 44 of gathering A/C/E 2018-19.

*Spiritual: “Down to the River to Pray” (Bob Richardson on guitar) (Lyrics on the Screen)

Prayer for Reconciliation:

Congregational Story Time: (based on Luke 3:15-17, 21-22)
At the beginning of his public ministry, Jesus presents himself to John to be baptized in the Jordan.

*Hymn: I Have Called You By Your Name #161 MV

(During the hymn, those participating in JC club and YAC are welcome to move to their classes now.)

A Reading from Isaiah 43:1-7
God will protect, ransom, and re-gather the people Israel from all the corners of the earth.
*Hymn: Precious Lord, Take My Hand #670 VU

Reflection/Message:

Invitation for Offering:
God claims us as children; names us as beloved; celebrates our presence. We offer our gifts to a loving God. http://liturgyoutside.net/EpiphanyB1.html

An Offering of Special Music: Barbara-Lynn and David Goodwin

*Offering Prayer:
Our gifts continue a conversation with the God of Heaven and Earth. Yes, we want a relationship! Yes, we want your dream for the world! Yes, we want to make plans! Even if this relationship might change everything! Count us in! Amen. https://www.greatplainsumc.org/files/clergy_excel/call/culture+of+call+worship+resources.pdf

Prayers of the Gathered Community
& The Prayer Jesus Taught

*Hymn: “River Running in You and Me” #163 MV

*Blessing:
May the Spirit bless you with hope
poured out like water and flowing as the river.
May Jesus bless you with discomfort
at injustice and oppression.
May the Creator who holds the Earth
as an artist holds brush and palette
fill your imagination
so that you always find the world inspiring and wonderful.
May God in whose being beauty shines on you
journey with you.
God says to us – each one and as one -- “you are my beloved,
be blessed this day and always.”
~ posted on Third Space. http://third-space.org.uk/

*Great Amen/Fourfold Amen #208 MV

Musical Postlude