Veradale United Church of Christ
An Open & Affirming Congregation
Worshiping God in Christ – Welcoming All –
Working for Justice & Peace
“No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!”
February 19, 2023 • 10:30 a.m.
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10:20am Gathering and Prelude
Wayne Shull, Music Director
Charlie Salt, AV
Joe McSwain, AV and Usher
Jerry Brines, Usher
Naomi Hanvey, Zoom App Assistance
Scotty Patton, Zoom Monitor
Maureen Carroll, Scripture Reader
Sue Ferrozzo, Candle Lighter and Fellowship Set-Up
Marilyn Closson, Fellowship Clean-up
Rev. Genavieve Heywood, Pastor
10:30am Worship begins
God is with us... all the time!
All the time . . . God is with us!
*Welcoming the Light of Christ
*Hymn:” We Have Come at Christ’s Own Bidding” 182 (NCH)
We have come at Christ’s own bidding to this high and holy place, where we wait with hope and longing for some token of God’s grace. Here we pray for new assurance that our faith is not in vain, searching like those first disciples for a sign both clear and plain.
Light breaks through our clouds and shadows, splendor bathes the flesh-joined Word. Moses and Elijah marvel as the heavenly voice is heard. Eyes and hearts behold with wonder how the Law and Prophets meet. Christ with garments drenched in brightness, stands transfigured and complete.
Strengthened by this glimpse of glory, fearful lest our faith decline. We like Peter, find it tempting to remain and build a shrine. But true worship gives us courage to proclaim what we profess, that our daily lives may prove us people of the God we bless.
About Our Sacred Conversations about Racism
Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Racism (highlighted words link to definitions)
a belief that race is a fundamental determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race
behavior or attitudes that reflect and foster this belief : racial discrimination or prejudice
the systemic oppression of a racial group to the social, economic, and political advantage of another
a political or social system founded on racism and designed to execute its principles
Community Prayer
Spoken Gratitude
Spoken Concerns
Silent Prayer
Lord’s Prayer
Response: “Awake! Awake and Greet the New Morn”
107(NCH) v.4
Rejoice, rejoice, take heart in the night, though cold the winter and cheerless, the rising sun shall crown you with light, be strong and loving and fearless. Love be our song and love our prayer, and love, our endless story, may God fill every day we share, and bring us at last into glory.
A Time of Offering
An Invitation to Share
Sacred Conversations about Racism: Jerry Brines and
Marilyn Closson
*Offering Acclamation:
Response: “Awake, Awake to Love and Work” 89 (NCH) v.2
Come, let your voice be one with theirs, shout with their shout of praise. See how the giant sun soars up, God’s gift for all your days! So, let the love of Jesus come and set your soul ablaze.
*Dedication Prayer
Holy One, bless the gifts of our time, talent, and treasure. May we be a witness to your presence in all the places we live. Bless our little congregation. May our gathering on Zoom and in-person grow in fellowship and compassion. Amen
Listening for God
Time with Young Hearts: Where is your happiest place?
Matthew 17:1-9 New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
17 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became bright as light. 3 Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will set up three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” 8 And when they raised their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
Message: Can We Stay?
Silent Reflection
Announcements
Church Council meets after worship
Bible Study Monday at 7pm at John and Maureen’s home.
Signups for Sacred Conversations about Racism
Our Light moves into the World God Loves
* Hymn: “Sent Forth by God’s Blessing” 76 (NCH)
Sent forth by God’s blessing, our true faith confessing, the people of God from this dwelling take leave. The service is ended, O now be extended the fruits of our worship in all who believe.
The seed of the teaching, receptive hearts reaching, shall blossom in action for God and for all. God’s grace did invite us, and love shall unite us to work for God’s realm and to answer the call.
With praise and thanksgiving to God ever living, the tasks of our everyday life we will face. Our faith ever sharing, in love ever caring, embracing God’s children of each tribe and race.
With your grace you feed us, with your light now lead us, united us as one in this life that we share. Then may all the living with praise and thanksgiving give honor to Christ and that name which we bear.
*Benediction
Silent Meditation and Postlude
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