Living Hope:
Re-membering
ORDER OF SERVICE
Centering chimes
Lighting of the solidarity lamp
–Symbolic of our Sister Church relationship with El Divino Redentor
Prelude
Call to worship
From the light of God, we light a candle to remember those whom we have loved
and lost. We pause this morning to remember their names, their faces, their voices,
and the memories that bind them to us this season.We light a second candle as a reminder that God’s light redeems the pain of
separation and loss, including the separation of family or friend during this Covid
time. We pause to gather up the pain of the past year and the fear of the future; we
offer it all to God, asking that from God’s hands we receive the gift of peace.We light a third candle to remember ourselves as we have experienced these past
months: the despair, the anger, the down times, the struggles and defeats. We also
remember the encouragement and prayers of those who care about us. We give
thanks for the support we have known.The fourth candle is lit to remember our faith and the gift of hope that God offers.
We know that even in times of loss, sorrow, fear and difficulty, God is present; we
are never alone; we find courage and renewed strength in the light of God.
Purple songbook #72 – We are often tossed and driv’n
Welcome & prayer
Virtual Passing the Peace (break-out groups)
Green songbook #110 – Go, silent friends
Children’s story
– Song “Let the children come to me”
– The Children’s Fall/Winter offering benefits Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) as it celebrates its centennial year in 2020. 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 – Revelation 7:9-17
Sermon
Green songbook #107 – God remembers pain
Service of Remembrance
Congregational sharing & prayer
Meditative music – Swing low, sweet chariot arranged by Calvin Taylor
– 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.
Work of the church
Green songbook #108 – Give thanks for life
Benediction
Worship Leader – Pastor Deb
Sermon & sharing – Pastor Michael
Prelude – Lincoln Morris
Meditation music – Pastor Deb
Hymns – Matt Yoder
Children’s Storyteller – Lynne Sancken
Scripture – Judy Nafziger