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Today’s guest speaker is Rev. Renny Domske
All of the information normally found in our bulletin is below the video. Simply click on "Read More" to load the rest of the bulletin. You can use this to follow the service, as well as to pray our unison prayers. Birthdays, anniversaries, the prayer list and announcements can be found at the bottom of this service.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude Music Director Robert Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS CALL TO WORSHIP from Psalm 5 Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my sighing. Listen to my cry for help, My King and my God. In the morning, O Lord, You hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before You and wait. You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil. The wicked and arrogant cannot stand in Your presence. Bloodthirsty, deceitful men and women the Lord abhors. You, Most Holy God, destroy those who tell lies. But I, by Your great mercy, will come into Your house. Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness and make straight Your way before me. But let all who take refuge in You be glad and sing for joy. May those who love Your name rejoice in You always. INVOCATION Dr. Domske
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Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we take some time to share our joys and concerns. Consider the past week. What prayer requests do you have? If you would like, you can share them as a comment to this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below, from St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Theresa of Avila, (source) to get started.
May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you May you be confident knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.
Today's lesson is on Isaiah 51:1-8.
This week's guest speaker is Rev. Dave Mason.
Announcements
Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said, "you give them something to eat." Mark 6:37. Please let Betty Fisher know if you are aware of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Vacation Bible School - "Rocky Railway" July 11 - 15 VBS will be held in the evening 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. There is a sign-up sheet on the back table for helpers and anyone willing to bring snacks - fruit, cheese, chips, cookies, etc. Please see Mary Hathaway or Lois Miller if you have any questions. Don't forget to mark your calendars for our second annual church picnic August 28th, located at the Cross Creek Park, West Middletown. Church service will be held there at 11:00 am. Come for the service and stay for the food, games and fellowship. Time for another picnic!! Join your Washington Presbytery community for a time of fellowship, worship, and a great meal on July 12th starting at 4:30 pm at Thomson Hill Park. Guests and children are welcome and there will be fun for all ages. Please RSVP by July 5th.
Joys and Concerns
Prayers for all our soldiers and those that have been deployed to help overseas. Prays for the Pulpit Nominating Committee (PNC) as they search for the appropriate person to serve our church. Please pray for Betty Anderson, Mary Hathaway's mother who is scheduled for surgery. Prayers for Wendy Liggett having surgery. Added to the prayer list is Marilyn Ward who has been experiencing sciatic nerve pain. Prayer request for Nelson Huffman.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we take time to share how our weeks have been, and any prayer requests we might have. Consider your past week, and any joys or concerns you might have. If you feel comfortable, you can share them as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Almighty Lord God, give us true faith, and make that faith grow in us day by day. Also give us hope and love, so that we may serve our neighbors according to your will; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
This week's lesson is on Isaiah 49:18-23.
Today’s guest speaker is Rev. CJ Haury.
All of the information normally found in our bulletin is below the video. Simply click on "Read More" to load the rest of the bulletin. You can use this to follow the service, as well as to pray our unison prayers. Birthdays, anniversaries, the prayer list and announcements can be found at the bottom of this service.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude Music Director Robert Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS CHORAL INTROIT The Church in Every Age CALL TO WORSHIP Leader: O God! How great You are! On the first day of the week we commemorate Your creation of the world and all that is in it. People: Thank You for the light which wakes us morning by morning, and for that greater light which shines in Jesus Christ. Leader: O God! How great You are! On the first day of the week You raised Jesus from the dead. People: Raise us with Him to a new quality of faith and life. Leader: O God! How great You are! Again, on the first day of week You sent Your Spirit on Your disciples. People: Do not deprive us of Your Spirit, but renew Him in Us day by day.
INVOCATION Rev. Haury
HYMN “Holy! Holy! Holy!” 323 CALL TO CONFESSION PRAYER OF CONFESSION (UNISON) Holy and merciful God, in Your presence we confess our sinfulness, our shortcomings, and our offenses against You.You alone know how often we have sinned in wondering from Your ways, in wasting Your gifts, in forgetting Your love. Have Mercy on us, O God, for we are ashamed and sorry for all we have done to displease You. Forgive our sins and help us to live in Your light and walk in Your way, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen ASSURANCE OF PARDON *Time of silent prayer * Response – Gloria Patri *Passing of the Peace L: The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. P: And also, with you. CHILDREN’S MOMENT CHOIR ANTHEM “ Christ Be Our Light” Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading John 21: 1-19 Acts 9: 1-20
L: The Word of the Lord
P: Thanks be to God! SERMON: “All 153 Kinds” HYMN; “ Holy Spirit, Flow Through Me” 164 Statement of Faith: See insert in bulletin Presentation of our tithes and offering Offertory Bob Senay Doxology (Hymnal page 382) Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the people Lord’s Prayer HYMN: “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling” 21 Benediction
BIRTHDAYS Karen Hunter, Jack Kime, Amy Molinaro
ANNIVERSARIES No Anniversaries this week JOYS AND CONCERNS Prayers for our soldiers and those that have been deployed to help overseas. Prayers for the Pulpit Nominating Committee (PNC) as they search for the appropriate person to serve our church. SYMPATHY to the Family of Vivian Kurtz ANNOUNCMENTS Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said, “you give them something to eat.” Mark 6: 37. Please let Betty Fisher know if you are aware of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. This coming Tuesday, June 14th, is the Women’s Missionary meeting at 9:30 AM. If you are interested in joining our group, please come! Busy Sunday coming up!! Remember the congregational meeting is next Sunday, June 19th. As many members as possible should plan to attend this meeting, which is to discuss North Buffalo’s governing system and to discuss moving from bicameral to unicameral. Also next Sunday is the dedication of the new hymnals. Heads up!!! Don’t forget to mark your calendars for our second annual church picnic August 28th, located at the Cross Creek Park, West Middletown. Church service will be held there at 11:00 AM. Come for the service and stay for the food, games and fellowship.
CONTINUING PRAYER LIST
Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, June & Keith McGill, Tim Knabenshue, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Matt Petrola, Laura Davis, Nancy Hepinger, Betsy Martin, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, , Bill Poland, Amy Ward, The Warlow Family, Pat Haggerty, Carl Weber, Jimmy Svetz, Haley Diedier, Fred Wilkinson, Wendy Liggett, Betty Fisher, Jean Westfall, Ina and Dave Henderson, Evelyn Wood, Ed Caffrey, Brandon Bell and Frank Riggle.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together in person, we share our joys and concerns before we focus on our Sunday school lesson. Think about your needs and concerns right now, and if you like, you can share them in the comments.
Today’s lesson is on one of the so-called Servant Songs of the book of Isaiah. Christians throughout the centuries have seen these songs — and many other parts of Isaiah — as pointing to Jesus. The following prayer was posted on the Vanderbilt University lectionary website:
O God, you spoke your word and revealed your good news in Jesus, the Christ.
Fill all creation with that word again, so that by proclaiming your joyful promises to all nations
and singing of your glorious hope to all peoples, we may become one living body, your incarnate presence on the earth. Amen.
This week's lesson is on Isaiah 49:1-13.
Introduction
Often when we read scripture, we think we understand a particular passage. Then, as we experience new situations and challenges, we may read the same passage again and see another, deeper meaning. The passage for today is a great example of how a Bible passage spoke to its particular historical context and had its primary meaning for the people of that time. Then, centuries later, readers took another look at the same passage and found a secondary meaning that points to Jesus Christ. And in many Christians’ minds, this secondary meaning is so obvious that they can hardly imagine there is another other meaning to it.
Lesson context
Most scholars believe that the book of Isaiah is really the work of at least three different authors. They attribute chapters 1 through 39 to the prophet Isaiah and believe they were written before the Babylonian captivity. Chapters 40 through 55, known as Second Isaiah, were probably written near the end of the captivity and during the resettlement period. Chapters 56 through 66 were likely written to the former exiles who had begun the difficult work of rebuilding Jerusalem. The book of Isaiah includes four so-called “Servant Songs,” four prophetic poems from the second part of Isaiah about a servant that would care for justice, teach, suffer, restore Israel and be a light for the Gentiles. However, the servant theme extends beyond these four passages. In fact, it is an important theme from chapter 40 through 55, according to Old Testament professor Bo Lim. Lim believes that chapter 40 through 48 were written while the people of Judah were in captivity in Babylon but that chapters 49 through 55 were written after the first group of exiles returned to Jerusalem. This morning’s text is from the second “Servant Song.”
Identity of the Servant (verses 1-5)
One of the most debated questions surrounding Isaiah is the identity of the servant. To Christians, it seems obvious that the Servant Songs refer to Jesus and his ministry. However, when Isaiah prophesied these words, he was speaking to his historical context and not primarily looking hundreds of years into the future. That context, as pointed out above, is the end of the Babylonian exile and the restoration of the people of Judah. There are three major theories for the identity of the servant in its original context. First, the servant is identified as an individual, possibly Moses or Jonah or Jeremiah or Josiah or even the author of Second Isaiah himself. Second, many scholars identify the servant as a collective group, either the nation or a righteous remnant within the nation of Israel. In fact, Isaiah says in verse 3, “He said to me, ‘You are my servant, Israel.’” And third, some scholars see the servant as a “corporate personality,” according to Old Testament professor Dr. Claude Mariottini. By this theory, the servant is both an individual, such as the author himself, who also represents the whole nation. Probably the best known statement of this passage is, “Before I was born the Lord called me; from my mother’s womb he has spoken my name.” The message here is that God’s call was part of God’s plan — whether it is God’s call to Isaiah, God’s call to Israel or God’s call to Jesus. In Jesus’s case, the gospels make clear that God was involved even before Jesus was born. Our Sunday school lesson also points out that the servant is identified as Israel, but it suggests that is because Jesus is the true Israel. On the other hand, the lesson says, if it is referring to the nation of Israel, then the prophecy is fulfilled in the church, which carries the good news of Christ to the world.
The Lord’s Plan (verses 6-13)
Verse 6 calls for the restoration of the tribes of Jacob and those of Israel. By this time, it had been generations since the northern tribe of Israel had been conquered by the Assyrians assimilated with other groups. To bring those tribes back together would be a huge undertaking, one only the Lord could accomplish. The servant, Isaiah says, is not only to bring back the lost tribes, but he is to be a light for the Gentiles as well. Whether the servant refers to Israel, to Christ, or to both, God’s plan has always been to bring all people to God. Salvation is to reach throughout the earth. Even kings and princes will respond to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, Isaiah says. Just as Israel as a nation was thought to be small and insignificant throughout most of its history, Jesus was also despised and rejected. So these words could refer to both. Many of the promises that Isaiah prophesies concerning the role of the servant for the captives who were returning from Babylon can also be seen in the life of Christ and in Christ’s work for people today. Here are a couple of examples from our passage: “I will keep you and make you … to say to the captives, ‘Come out,’ and to those in darkness, ‘Be free!’” God is our redeemer, and those who are oppressed can shed their fears because God has chosen to rescue them. “They will neither hunger nor thirst, nor will the desert heat or the sun beat down on them.” Isaiah’s original audience was concerned that God would protect them from literal hunger, thirst and other difficulties of the desert they had to cross, but Jesus also fed people literally and spiritually and talked about the living water that would quench their spiritual longing. Finally, Isaiah calls all of creation to shout for joy, to rejoice and to sing. This is the correct response when the Lord announces his intention to comfort his people and have compassion on the afflicted. 
Conclusion
At the right time, God sent Jesus to earth to offer salvation to all who accept him as Lord and Savior (Romans 5:6-8; Galatians 4:4-5). The call is to those who are in our families and communities and also in far distant villages we will never visit or even know exist. Our responsibility in the time of salvation is twofold: to proclaim the good news to all (Matthew 28:18-20) and to worship God with all creation. We are comforted, and we experience mercy. Therefore sing to God! And spread the good news throughout the earth.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for Isaiah’s prophecies and the ways that your Son, Jesus, fulfilled them. Make us people who call captives to freedom in Christ and whose faith in his care is unwavering. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the God's Word translation. 
Next week's lesson will be on Isaiah 49:18-23.
Today’s guest speaker is Dr. Renny Domske.
All of the information normally found in our bulletin is below the video. Simply click on "Read More" to load the rest of the bulletin. You can use this to follow the service, as well as to pray our unison prayers. Birthdays, anniversaries, the prayer list and announcements can be found at the bottom of this service.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude Music Director Robert Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS CHORAL INTROIT “Let Us Build A House” CALL TO WORSHIP: from Psalm 4 Leader: Answer me, when I call to You, O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress. People: How long, O men, will you turn My glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? Leader: Know that the Lord has set apart the godly for Himself. The Lord will hear when I call to Him. People: In your anger do not sin; search your hearts each night and be silent Leader: Be merciful to me and hear my prayer. Let the light of Your face shine upon us, O Lord. People: I will lie down and sleep in peace, O righteous God, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in Safety.
INVOCATION Dr. Domske
HYMN: “Standing on the promise” #69 PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (in unison) O Lord God. Here we are again. We have promised to love You but we have loved ourselves. We have promised to consult You in all things but we have ignored You. We have promised to think of You when we interact with others, but we have only approached others with selfishness. Forgive us, most merciful God. Bless us as we come to You again. Fill us with the hope that only You can provide. Take our sins far away from us. We want to love You. In Jesus name we pray. ASSURANCE OF PARDON *Time of silent prayer Response – Gloria Patri Passing of the peace L: The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be w you. P: And also, with you. Children’s Moment CHOIR ANTHEM “Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness” Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading Matthew 12: 38-41 Jonah 1: 1-17, 2: 10 The Sign of Jonah
L: The word of the Lord
P: Thanks be to God! Sermon “Having Jonah Over for Lunch” HYMN: There Shall Be Showers of Blessings #580 *Apostles Creed (found in back cover of hymnal) Presentation of tithes and offering Offertory Robert Senay Doxology (Hymnal page 382) Prayer of dedication Joys and Concerns Prayers of the People Dr. Domske The Lord’s Prayer HYMN: “Sweet, Sweet Spirit” #159 HYMN 564 INVITATION TO THE LORD’S TABLE Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of Hosts! Heaven and earth are full of Thee! Heaven and earth are praising Thee! O Lord Most High! THE COMMUNION THE RESPONSE – “Alleluia” HYMN 565 BENEDICATION CHOIR POSTLUDE “Every time I feel the Spirit”
ANNOUNCMENTS
Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said, “you give them something to eat.” Mark 6: 37. Please let Betty Fisher know if you are aware of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Remember the congregational meeting was moved to June 19th. As many members as possible should plan to attend this meeting, which is to discuss North Buffalo’s governing system and to discuss moving from bicameral to unicameral.
BIRTHDAYS John O’Hara, Gary Gibson
ANNIVERSARIES Bill & Beverly Calhoun; Ron & Jean Westfall JOYS AND CONCERNS Prayers for our soldiers and those that have been deployed to help overseas and pray for the Ukraine people. Prayers for the Pulpit Nominating Committee (PNC) as they search for the appropriate person to serve our church. Added to our prayer list this week is Brandon Bell who has been diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome. SYMPATHY To the Family of Jean Kuhn To the Family of Vivian Kurtz
CONTINUING PRAYER LIST
Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, June & Keith McGill, Tim Knabenshue, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Diane Bednarski, Matt Petrola, Laura Davis, Nancy Hepinger, Betsy Martin, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, Mary Ann Durila, Bill Poland, Amy Ward, The Warlow Family, Pat Haggerty, Carl Weber, Jimmy Svetz, Vicky Byer, Haley Diedier, Fred Wilkinson, Wendy Liggett, Betty Fisher, Ina and Dave Henderson, Evelyn Wood, Ed Caffrey and Brandon Bell.
Good morning!
Happy Pentecost! We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we take time to share our joys and concerns. Take some time to think about the past week, and if you have any prayer requests. As you feel comfortable, you can share these as a comment to this post.
Today is Pentecost, which we think of as the birthday of the church. The Holy Spirit descended on the apostles, and they were able to speak to everyone present. When you are ready, use the prayer below, from the Presbyterian Mission Agency for Pentecost, to get started.
Living God, you sent the Holy Spirit to breathe life into your church. Let us no longer be captives to fear, but messengers of your saving love, so that all may be reconciled in you. Through Jesus Christ you have given us peace that the world cannot give. Let your Spirit of truth abide with us so that we may live in hope, grow in faith, and keep your commandments of love; in the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Isaiah 47:10-15. Before reading, keep in mind that in this passage, Isaiah is speaking to Babylon.
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