ORDER OF SERVICE
Centering chimes
Lighting of the solidarity lamp
–Symbolic of our Sister Church relationship with El Divino Redentor
Prelude
Call to worship
Watch! Wait! The day of God is at hand!
Like the bud on a tree, God’s possibilities are about to blossom!
Stay awake! The reign of God is near,
Watch and wait with hope.
May God bring justice to all people.
May God’s reign come on earth as in heaven.
Green songbook #9 – Come, now is the time to worship
Welcome & prayer
Virtual Passing the Peace (break-out groups)
Hymnal #332 – Blessed assurance
Virtual backpack blessing
Children’s story
– Song “Let the children come to me”
– The children’s offering through August benefits Randolph Street Community Gardens
– All households are invited to set out a basket and gather an offering weekly. Donations may be sent to the FMC office at any time or can be made online (select children’s offering in “To” box)
Scripture: Matthew 24:32-35
Sermon
Purple songbook #118 – Keep your lamps trimmed
Congregational sharing & prayer
Meditative music
– In the absence of a weekly offering collection, reflect on how you are practicing and receiving generosity. Consider giving to First Mennonite Church by mailing a check, giving through your bank, or giving online.
Words to the meditative music:
“Sleepers, wake!” A voice astounds us, the shout of rampart-guards surrounds us: “Awake, Jerusalem, arise!” Midnight’s peace their cry has broken, their urgent summons clearly spoken: “The time has come, O maidens wise! Rise up, and give us light; the
Bridegroom is in sight. Alleluia! Your lamps prepare and hasten there, that you the wedding feast may share.”
Work of the church
Hymnal #427 – You shall go out with joy
Benediction
Worship Leader – Pastor Deb
Music – Rafael Luquis
Prelude & meditation music – Pastor Deb
Children’s Storyteller – Mary Biddle
Scripture Reader – Karen McKenzie
Sermon & sharing – Pastor Michael