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Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, use this prayer to get started.
God of grace and mercy, we turn to you again as people who want to be closer to you and live as your children. Help us to remember that righteousness is not simply a matter of attending worship or Sunday school or going through any particular religious ritual. It is a matter of how we live and work and give in the world around us, and especially how we care for the poor and the oppressed in our community. Help us to live as children of light.
In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.
This week's lesson is on Isaiah 58:6-10.
Introduction
The practice of fasting is confusing for many Christians, partly because we don’t hear much about it these days and partly because Christians can fast for different reasons at different times. Some may even consider fasting to be a practice of a bygone era when it comes to spirituality. According to the Presbyterian Church (USA), fasting is for repentance and mourning for our brokenness and sin, for seeking the will of God, for preparation for baptism of catechumens or new believers, and for preparing to receive God’s Word made flesh in the paschal mystery of Easter. We can find examples of all of these purposes throughout the Bible, but the thing that unites them all is a recognition that from time to time we need to focus intently on our sinfulness, our need for God, and our need to hear God’s word and to act in response to that word. Fasting is a good practice for many times in the Christian life, but Lent is a season that combines all of biblical reasons for fasting. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which is February 22 this year. During Lent, we try to get away from the distractions of life, and instead we focus on the basics, on our own mortality, and we prepare to hear and accept God’s word, particularly God’s Word made flesh, Jesus Christ. It is a deeply personal and introspective time, but it is also a time that allows us to look around us and see the needs of those who struggle to fulfill the basic needs that we may take for granted.
Lesson context
If you look at examples of fasting throughout the Bible, you will see it happens at times when people want to express deep sorrow, when people are expressing repentance, and when they have a deep desire to receive God’s word. From Moses’ 40-day fast before receiving the Law on Mount Sinai to Jesus’s 40-day fast in the wilderness to prepare for his ministry, fasting is a time of self-denial and preparation. Fasting is something that communities and entire nations can do to show their need for God’s intervention. But for those who approach fasting with the wrong motive and attitude, there is a danger that it can be done only for show. In Matthew 6, Jesus warns people not to fast in this way, not to make your fast obvious to those around you just to gain attention. That kind of fasting is insincere and goes against the true purpose of the practice. Isaiah must have seen something similar happening in his day. If you read the verses that come just before our passage for this morning, you will see that the people were fasting but they were not experiencing God’s presence or hearing God’s word. They wanted to know why. Isaiah’s answer is that they were going through the ritual of fasting, but it was not affecting their treatment of the poor and needy. They were fasting, but they were allowing injustice to continue and the poor to go hungry and naked. A fast that does not produce change within us that leads to change around us is not the kind of fast God intends.
God’s Chosen Fast (verses 6 and 7)
Our Sunday school lesson suggests that the people who were fasting during Isaiah’s time were not actively pursuing righteousness and real change but were merely taking a break from the evil habits they otherwise enjoyed. After all, the lesson points out, unscrupulous and unrighteous acts were (and still are) one way to become and remain wealthy or powerful. When Isaiah suggests the people fast by loosing other people’s chains and breaking their yoke, perhaps he was inviting them to see how they were benefitting from the injustice and pain that others in the community were experiencing. Perhaps the people of Isaiah’s time were not even fasting from their usual unjust behavior. Maybe they were simply going through the ritual of personal prayer and fasting while at the same time doing those things that contribute to the injustice and poverty around them. There is a real danger, even today, in separating our personal piety and service to the church from our way of living and doing business in our daily lives. Although we normally associate fasting with giving things up, it can also be a way of focusing on doing positive things. When I was growing up, people would often talk about taking the money saved from the meals we did not eat and donating that money to a good cause. During a fast, we may also use our time to do something positive for others in the community. Isaiah describes all of these practices in terms of lifting the burdens of others and setting slaves free. In fact, part of Isaiah’s call to fasting is “to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter — when you see the naked, to clothe them….” This is the kind of fast God requires of us, a fast that not only sets aside our own daily needs but that gives us the opportunity to lift the burdens of others. During this time, we need to see that everyone in our community is, in a sense, our family and therefore they are people that we should not turn away when they are in need. Not all of the problems that people endure in society are because of systemic oppression. Sometimes, for example, people become homeless because they have untreated mental illness, addictions and simply because they experienced catastrophic financial losses. Many are elderly and without a real family support system. Regardless of how they have come to this situation or why they are unable to emerge from it, as Christians we are obliged to see them and to try to lift their burden.
A Bright Future (verses 8-10)
Isaiah’s prophecy is not just to pronounce gloom and to point out sin. It is also to assure the people that, if they commit to a fast like the one the Lord intends, they will experience God’s presence and they will become the people God wants them to be. Isaiah casts this change as moving from darkness to light. Not only will God’s light break forth on them, but they also will be people of light. Their light will shine into the world. It reminds us of the prologue to the gospel of John, where Jesus’s arrival is seen as light coming into the world. And even though not everyone accepted that light, and some tried to snuff it out, those who accept it, become children of God. In Ephesians, Paul calls such people “children of light.” Not only are Christians people who have seen the light. They are people who endeavor to live by that light and to share that light with others. If the people of Isaiah’s time would change their way of fasting and truly seek change within them and around them, they would receive healing as a people, both spiritual and physical. Isaiah assured them that they would enjoy God’s protection and God would answer their cries for help quickly. Sometimes when we feel God is not present with us or that God is not hearing or answering our prayers, it has more to do with our mental state than with God. At other times, even though God is always present with us, that sense of distance can be a call for us to examine ourselves and to bring our lives into God’s light so that we can receive forgiveness and righteousness. Again, fasting can allow us to remove the distractions and to focus on our relationship to God and how we are living as light in the world. In the case of the people of Isaiah’s time, it went back to the oppressive treatment of the poor. Isaiah calls them to stop pointing fingers and talking maliciously. Perhaps this refers to blaming particular people — or especially to speaking ill of and blaming the poor and oppressed themselves — for their situation. Perhaps Isaiah is telling everyone to take a look at themselves, to admit their own guilt and to change their ways. Isaiah concludes this portion of his prophecy by reminding his hearers that, by spending themselves in caring for the hungry and oppressed, God will indeed come to them, and they will shine like the sun at noontime. However, their fasts must be done with the right attitude, with real openness to change, and not simply for ritual or for show. 
Conclusion
Isaiah pushed Israel to understand that what God deems important is not temporary willingness to fast from food but a spiritual health that leads to righteous behavior. So we might ask ourselves two questions: Do I go through ritualistic motions on a regular basis instead of allowing my heart to really be turned toward God during those practices? What “fast” might I need to undertake to align myself with the type of fasting God desires? A just and caring community will consider the “hungry” in all aspects Isaiah has already defined: food, clothing, and housing (Isaiah 58:7). How can we feel comfortable in our abundance if we know there is suffering in our neighborhoods? (1 John 3:17) It may be impossible for any one individual to meet every community need, but this does not excuse us from keeping our eyes open to the plight of others or striving to meet the needs we see. Experience has taught me that I am most successful with fasting if I practice it in community, with at least one partner. Then the limits of the fast are mutually agreed on and there is an accountability that helps keep me focused and faithful to the practice. Maybe you should seek a “fasting partner” who will share the experience and grow with you. That way you can grow in grace and truth together. (See John 1:14, 17).
Prayer
Lord God, give us hearts that seek a lifelong “fast” from the pleasures of sin and an ongoing “feast” of obedience to you. May we not be guilty of making a show out of our religious actions while having hearts of stone. Give us a character that cares about the needy, abstains from pointing fingers at others, loves and practices truth, and reflects the light of your Word. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Questions for discussion:
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the Revised Standard Version. 
Next week's lesson is on Joel 2:21-27.
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Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we take time to share our joys and concerns from the past week. If you have any prayer requests to share, you can add them in the comments to this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
God, open our hearts that we may love you; open our ears that we may hear you; open our eyes that we may see you; open our minds that we may learn of you; strengthen our wills that we may serve you; in the name of Jesus, Amen.
This week's lesson is on Isaiah 48:3-8, 17.
Lesson Context
The various sections of the book of Isaiah are unified by their repeating of important themes about the Lord and his relationship to Israel. The section we are looking at is Isaiah 40-55, which is sometimes referred to as Second Isaiah. It contains the so-called Servant Songs. Sometimes the servant is understood to be the nation of Israel, while sometimes it is understood as an individual to come. This section has some consistent messages. First, Isaiah points out the absurdity of worshipping idols. Second, Isaiah emphasizes that there is no other God but the Lord. Third, Isaiah frequently notes the Lord's knowledge and control of the future. Fourth, the role of the Lord as the Creator of all things is also prominent.
The Knowing God
The Lord asserted in no uncertain terms that he was the one who foretold the former things. God's plan was not haphazardly thrown together. However, promises can seem to take a long time to be fulfilled. Think of promises like Abraham becoming the father of a great nation, or the exiles in Babylon returning to their homes. But after God made them known, they did seem to happen suddenly. Israel's stubbornness is a common thread in the nation's history. This includes descriptions like being stiffnecked, of a hard heart, and refusing to hear or see. We also see the consequences of Israel's stubbornness. When the people refused to trust God after being delivered from Egypt, none of the first generation entered the promised land. The nation of Israel was divided into two kingdoms because King Rehoboam insisted on following foolish advice. Iron and bronze were the hardest metals known at the time of Isaiah. The description of a beast of burden as hardheaded as these metals was striking. An iron neck would not turn with the reins of the driver. The bronze forehead suggests a will so set that no new information or knowledge could cause a change of course. The passage repeats some ideas a few times. Repetition was a typical Hebrew writing convention. Whether word for word, with synonymous parallelism, or in other ways, repetition was used frequently to emphasize the importance of a point. Most of Isaiah's audience would have been illiterate, so words repeated over and over also helped to stick the message in the audience's heads. Attributing any action to an idol is ridiculous. And yet, Israel fell into this trap time after time. God wanted the people to admit that God had told them what was to come. Even after witnessing these things, the people were unwilling to admit it. Because of this unwillingness, God would not tell them in advance. Our book says that this means there would be a novel act, being created now. It would be a display of God's creative power at any time according to his pleasure. This way, no one could possibly say that they already knew what was going to happen. A foundational principle for Israel's relationship with God was that Israel was to "hear." They were to believe that God was the one true God, and to love God with all their heart, soul and strength. Further, they were to teach what they heard to one another and their children. The act of truly hearing the Lord always has included obedience to what he commands. As we have read over and over, the people rebelled against this often.
The Living God
Between our two sections of text, God asserted that it was for his own glory that he had not already punished Israel for all their disobedience. However, he would also not leave Babylon unpunished for what the empire had done to Judah. The last section we are reading today opens with, "This is what the Lord says." This phrase is a very common way of emphasizing that God, not the prophet, is the source of the prophet's words. God is not often depicted as a teacher in the Old Testament, though it is talked about here. We learn and grow when we do the right thing, but we also can benefit when we learn from our past sins. The only wise pathways is following the Lord, living according to his teachings. God leads the people in the way they should go. In the New Testament, it is even more striking that Jesus claims himself to be the only way, the exclusive pathway to the Father. The book of Acts also refers to the Christian faith as the way. Our faith is the very way that we live. 
Conclusion
The tragedy of Israel's history is that God had revealed many things to them: his law, his will for their nation, his choices of leaders, and so on. Despite the long history of such revelations, the nation often acted as though the people did not have ears to hear. Time after time, Israel ignored the Lord's directives and warnings. We have a major advantage: we are empowered by the Spirit to grow in our relationship with the Father and become more like Jesus each day. When we do so, we will be better able to hear warnings when we are following a way not set out by the Lord. And we will have ears hearing what the Lord is doing as he calls us to join his work. Listen for the call!
Prayer
Lord God, forgive us for the times we have been too stubborn to seek you and your will for our lives. Please give us ears to hear so that we can follow your way. All this we pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the Psalter. 
Next week's lesson is on Isaiah 58:6-10.
Good morning!
We're so glad you chose to join us today!
When we meet together, we take time to share our joys and concerns. Consider your past week. If you have any prayer requests, you can share them in the comments on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Mighty Savior, give me strength to hold on to the great blessings and wonderful gifts You have given me. Especially the blessings of Your promises, Your presence, Your peace, Your guidance, Your healing, and the gifts of salvation, faith, hope, love and eternal life. May I never forget these blessings or fail to use these gifts, and may they always be to me a proof of Your gracious love. Thank You for all You have given me: thank You, Mighty Savior. AMEN
Today's lesson is on Isaiah 43:1-4, 10-12.
This text is God’s promise to Israel. As a result of turning away from God and refusing to repent, the nation of Israel has been divided into northern and southern kingdoms. The northern kingdom was captured and dispersed by the Assyrian Empire.
Because Judah was spared, the people thought it was a sign that God would never allow Judah to fall. Isaiah called the people to repent, return to God and become witnesses for God. Unfortunately, forsaking God for a false god erodes the knowledge a person already has, and prevents growth toward God. The people refused to listen to Isaiah. 
Conclusion
Although Isaiah was not believed in his own time, his words were written down. His words were considered precious by God and were preserved throughout generations. Prayer Lord, give us hearts and minds to be true witnesses of your mighty world. Thank you for how you have revealed yourself throughout history. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. Thought to Remember Remember God’s works, and witness faithfully.
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New Living Translation. 
Next week's lesson will be on Isaiah 48:3-8, 17.
Merry Christmas!
Our guest speaker today was Rev. Renny Domske.
This week's guest speaker is Rev. Renny Domske.
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Prelude Music Director Bob Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS: Advent candle lighters; Debbie Durila and Grandsons CALL TO WORSHIP: While shepherds kept watching O’er silent flocks by night. Behold throughout the heavens There shone a holy light. Go, tell it on the mountain Over the hills and everywhere. Go, tell on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born! The Shepherds feared and trembled When lo! Above the earth, Rang out the angel chorus That hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain Over the hills and everywhere. Go, tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger The humble Christ was born, And God sent us salvation That blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain Over the hills and everywhere. Go, tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born!
INVOCATION; Dr. Domske
* Hymn While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks #118 PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (unison) Our Father in Heaven, as we draw closer to the holy night of Christmas, we are afraid to compare ourselves to Mary, Joseph, And the Christ Child. They are so pure, but we are so selfish. They appear to us sinless, while we are full of sin. Take our sins away, Lord. Wash us clean and pure. We are sorry we have approached life selfishly. We are sorry we have sinned. We want to be Your sons and daughters as You made us to be. Wash our sins away in the Christ Child’s Name. * Time of silent prayer *ASSURANCE OF PARDON L: The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. P: And also, with you! Response – Gloria Patri (page 581) Passing the Peace Children’s Chat Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading: Isaiah 25: 1 – 8 Luke 2: 8 – 14 Sermon: “You Wouldn’t Believe What Happened At Work” *Hymn “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” #123 *Apostles Creed (copy next to prayer list) Presentation of our tithes and offering Offertory Bob Senay *Doxology (page 606) *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the People The Lord’s Prayer *Hymn “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” #119 *Benediction * Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Jean Westfall, Bryan Bell, Buc Walther, John O’Hara, Cris Miller, Lyndon Herschell, Tom Miller, Jr.
ANNIVERSARIES: Mike & Debbie Durila SYMPATHY: To the Family of Larry Fox (Christine Welling’s Uncle) ANNOUNCEMENTS: Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said,“You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church on Meyers Road near Washington will hold its traditional hymn sing at 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 21st . There will be scripture readings and stories as well as a time of fellowship and refreshments following the hymn singing. Don’t forget the mitten tree this year. You can also put socks, gloves, hats, or anything for the little ones to help keep them warm. Also don’t forget our Christmas Eve program is Saturday 24th at 7 p.m.
CONTINUING PRAYER LIST
Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, Tim Knabenshue, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Matt Petrola, Nancy Hepinger, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, Bill Poland, Carl Weber, Jimmy Svetz, Betty Fisher, Haley Diedier, Fred Wilkinson, Evelyn Wood, Brandon Bell, Ricci Amos, Milton Rice, Nancy Diaz, Gianna Perry, Marlene McFeely, Tiffany Cipoletti, Robert Paxton, Bill Berdine, Cheryl Bell, Frank Baker, Diane Anderson, Jim Durila, James O’Hara, Barb and John O’Hara, Larry Litman, Sue Gregg, Doris Ann Rowe, Susan Strope, Tim Taylor, Helen Provenzano, Suzy Smith, Lori Doxtator Walker, Jean and Ron Westfall
We had lots of fun at yesterday's Christmas party!
This week's guest speaker is Rev. Renny Domske.
Third Sunday of Advent
Prelude Music Director Bob Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS Advent candle lighters: Diana Donaldson and Jean Kuhn CALL TO WORSHIP: from Psalm 20 May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the Name of the God of Jacob protect you. May God send you help from His sanctuary and grant you support from Zion. May the Lord give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He answers from His holy heaven with saving power. Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the Name of the Lord our God. We will shout for joy when You are victorious. We will lift up our banners in the Name of our God.
INVOCATION; Dr. Domske
* Hymn O Little Town of Bethlehem # 121 PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (unison) Heavenly Father, You have taught us that there is nothing we cannot withstand if we place our faith and trust in Your Son Jesus. Through His example and His strength, we know that the evil one has no power over us except that which we allow. Forgive us for misplacing our faith, forgive us if we have sought answers elsewhere. Reconcile us to Yourself through Jesus our Christ. * Time of silent prayer *ASSURANCE OF PARDON L: The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. P: And also, with you! Response – Gloria Patri (page 581) Passing the Peace Children’s Chat Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading: Isaiah 9: 1 – 7 Matthew 1: 15 – 16, 18 - 25 Sermon: “Just An Ordinary Joe” *Hymn “Once in Royal David’s City ” #140 *Apostles Creed (copy next to prayer list) Presentation of our tithes and offering Offertory Bob Senay *Doxology (page 606) *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the People The Lord’s Prayer *Hymn “Good Christian Friends Rejoice” #132 *Benediction * Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Dan Hathaway, Nicole King, Sam Jackson, Sue Gregg, Addison Miklic, Susie Durila Cummings, Lynn Kalich, Buc Walther, Brian Bell, Jean Westfall
ANNIVERSARIES: Bill & Carol Stough; Mike & Debbie Durila ANNOUNCEMENTS: Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. The congregation will be doing its annual Shopping for Shut-ins soon. If you would like to donate to the ministry, please contact Garnet Welling or any session member. The new offering envelopes for 2023 are now available. Grove UP Church’s Christmas Program is this evening at 6 p.m. Ringing of the bells is part of the program. Our Sunday School family Christmas party is Saturday 17th at noon here at the church. Don’t forget the mitten tree this year. You can also put socks gloves, hats or anything for the little ones to help keep them warm. Remember to pick up your poinsettia order sheets. They are located on the back table. Also don’t forget our Christmas Eve program is Saturday 24th at 7 p.m. Please take a moment to look on the back of the monthly budget sheet for the “Legend of the Candy Cane”.
CONTINUING PRAYER LIST
Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, Tim Knabenshue, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Matt Petrola, Nancy Hepinger, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, Bill Poland, Carl Weber, Jimmy Svetz, Betty Fisher, Haley Diedier, Fred Wilkinson, Evelyn Wood, Brandon Bell, Ricci Amos, Milton Rice, Nancy Diaz, Gianna Perry, Marlene McFeely, Tiffany Cipoletti, Cris Miller, Diane Bednarski, Robert Paxton, Jim McCoy, Bill Berdine, Cheryl Bell, Frank Baker, Diane Anderson, Jim Durila, James O’Hara, Barb and John O’Hara, Debbie Durila, Larry Litman, Joyce Nichols, Sue Gregg, Doris Ann Rowe, Susan Strope, Tim Taylor, Richard Wagner, Helen Provenzano, Suzy Smith, Lori Doxtator Walker
Today's guest speaker is Rev. Renny Domske.
Second Sunday of Advent
Prelude Music Director Bob Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS: Advent candle lighters; Bob Fisher Family CALL TO WORSHIP: from Psalm 19 The heavens declare the glory of God. The skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day the heavens pour forth speech; night after night the skies display knowledge. In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun. It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other. The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. Forgive my hidden faults and errors, My Redeemer, Keep Your servant also from willful sins. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord my Rock.
INVOCATION: Dr. Domske
* Hymn “Angels From the Realms of Glory” #143 *PRAYER OF CONFESSION: (UNISON)\ O Lord, You are my rock and my Redeemer. Why do You put up with my continual sinning? Why can I not learn to be unselfish? Why did You send Your Son as a Babe to die for me? Father of All, forgive me my sins. Help me to learn to love You more. Help me to learn to love myself less. The beauty of this time of year humbles us. Thank You for sending Your Son to us in a manger. * Time of silent prayer *ASSURANCE OF PARDON L: The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. P: And also, with you! Response – Gloria Patri (page 581) Passing the Peace Children’s Chat Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading: Isaiah 7: 9-14 Luke 1: 26-38
Sermon: “Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary”
*Hymn “Lo! How a Rose E’er Blooming” # 129 *Apostles Creed (copy next to prayer list) Presentation of our tithes and offering Offertory Bob Senay *Doxology (page 606) *Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the People The Lord’s Prayer *HYMN “Angels We Have Heard on High” #113 *Benediction * Postlude
BIRTHDAYS: Marty Lippert, Janet Shively, Bonnie Reese, Dan Hathaway
SYMPATHY The Family of Alvin Danley, Jr. (Debbie Rugg’s brother) The Family of Joann Bittlebrun Sayre (companion of Fred Wilkinson, owner of Dependable Electric) ANNOUNCEMENTS: Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said,“You give them something to eat.” Please let Betty Fisher know of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. The congregation will be doing its annual Shopping for Shut-ins soon. If you would like to donate to the ministry, please contact our treasurer, Garnet Welling, or any member of the session. Bethany College Will be having a Music program December 6 at 7 o’clock in Commencement Hall. The address is 31 S Loop Campus Drive, Bethany, WV 26032. For further information contact Christine Welling. Bob and Kathy Ross invited our church to their Christmas program at Lower Ten Mile Presbyterian Church on December 10 at 6:30 pm. Their theme is “Christmas Night of Worship.” The address is 580 Amity Ridge Road, Amity, Pa. 15311. The new offering envelopes for 2023 are now available.
CONTINUING PRAYER LIST
Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, Tim Knabenshue, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Matt Petrola, Nancy Hepinger, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, Bill Poland, Carl Weber, Jimmy Svetz, Betty Fisher, Haley Diedier, Fred Wilkinson, Evelyn Wood, Brandon Bell, Ricci Amos, Milton Rice, Larry Fox, Nancy Diaz, Gianna Perry, Marlene McFeely, Susie Smith, Tiffany Cipoletti, Cris Miller, Diane Bednarski, Robert Paxton, John and Donna West, Jim McCoy, Bill Berdine, Cheryl Bell, Frank Baker, Diane Anderson, Colleen Kuhn, Jim Durila, James O’Hara, Barb and John O’Hara, Debbie Durila, Larry Litman, Joyce Nichols, Dana Wilson, Sue Gregg, Doris Ann Rowe, Susan Strope, Tim Taylor, Richard Wagner, Helen Provenzano, Suzy Smith, Lori Doxtator Walker
Our guest speaker today is Rev. Renny Domske.
Gathering Around the Word
Prelude Music Director Robert Senay ANNOUNCEMENTS: CALL TO WORSHIP from Psalm 9 I will praise You, O Lord, with all my heart: I will tell of all Your Wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in You: I will sing praise to Your Name, O Most High. My enemies turn back: they stumble and perish before You. For You have upheld my right and my cause. You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked. You have blotted out their name for ever and ever. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in time of trouble. Those who know Your Name will trust You. Sing praises to the Lord, enthroned in Zion! Proclaim among the nations all He has done for us!
INVOCATION Dr. Domske
Hymn: “How Great Thou Art “ 625 PRAYER OF CONFESSION (UNISON) O Lord my God, we approach You in awesome wonder, because of all You have done for us. We wish we could say to You that we have acted awesome toward You. Yet we have not—we have been selfish, we have ignored all but ourselves. We have sinned. Forgive us. Make us whole again. Give us the joy we only feel when we are in Your arms, doing Your will, sharing Your thoughts. We need You every hour, O God. May we know deep in our souls how great Thou art. 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 Prayer for Illumination Scripture reading: Old Testament: Isaiah 53 New Testament: Mark 2: 18-22 53 Who has believed our message
L: The Word of the Lord
P: Thanks be to God! SERMON: “Shut the Screen Door! You’ll Let the Flies In” Hymn: “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” 197 The Apostles Creed Presentation of our tithes and offering Offertory Doxology (Hymnal page (606) Prayer of dedication Concerns and Celebrations Prayers of the people Lord’s Prayer Hymn: “Lead On, O King Eternal!” 269 Benediction
BIRTHDAYS:
Dylan Marton, Carol Horne, Dana Wilson, Nora Beth Gill ANNIVERSARIES: Tom & Linda Miller, Daniel & Lynn Kalich, John & Barb O’Hara, Dave & Susie Cummings, Doug & Nicole King JOYS AND CONCERNS Keep praying for all our soldiers here and abroad. Added to our sympathy list is Dorothy Thomas, who is a cousin of Linda Miller. Dorothy passed away this past week after a long battle with Ovarian cancer. Sympathy for the Family of Rose Churray Family of Alice Esposto Family of Dorothy Thomas ANNOUNCEMENTS Remember our Food Collection. And Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” Mark 6: 37. Please let Betty Fisher know of you are aware of anyone within the community that may be in need at this time. Thanks to everyone that came to the Church picnic last Sunday. I hear that there were 83 people that attended. There was plenty of food and fellowship shared by all. We should take the time to thank Cheryl and her helpers for the decorations and time that went into the preparations of the picnic. Thank you for a successful Sunday picnic this year.
Continuing Prayer List
Melissa Pedigo, Aaron Blake, Chuck Dicks, Tim Knabenshue, June & Keith McGill, Frank Huffman, Tom Westfall, Elaine Belcascro, Sandy Stone, Matt Petrola, Nancy Hepinger, Betsy Martin, Ed Horne, Sarah Wilson, Bill Poland, Pat Haggerty, Carl Weber, Jimmy Svetz, Betty Fisher, Haley Diedier, Fred Wilkinson, Jean Westfall, Evelyn Wood, Brandon Bell, Frank Riggle, Betty Anderson, Mary Tarnic, Polly Blackhurst, Tom Novak, Chuck Warlow, Valerie Shumaker, Ricci Amos, Milton Rice, Gianna Perry (4 yrs. Old), Braxton (2 yrs. Old) with heart surgery, Greg Duntz, Nancy Diaz, Marlene McFeely, Larry Fox, Debbie Moriarty, Frank Baker
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.
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.
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