OUR WORSHIP TIME BULLETIN

Oval: HOME OUR WORSHIP TIME BULLETIN

2009 Click on a date to see a Bulletin

Jan. 04, 2009 Jan. 11, 2009 Jan. 18, 2009 Jan. 25, 2009

Feb. 01, 2009 Feb. 08, 2009 Feb. 15, 2009 Feb. 22, 2009 Feb. 25, 2009Ash

March 01, 2009 March 08, 2009 March 15, 2009 March 22, 2009 March 29, 2009

April 5, 2009(Palm Sun.) April 9, (Maundy Thurs.) April 10, (Good Fri.)

April 12, 2009(Easter) April 19, 2009 April 26, 2009

May 3, 2009 May 10, 2009 May 17, 2009 May 24, 2009 May 31 (Pentecost)

June 7, 2009 June 14, 2009 June 21, 2009 June 28, 2009

July 5, 2009 July 12, 2009 July 19, 2009 July 26, 2009

August 2, 2009 August 9, 2009 August 16, 2009 Aug. 23, 2009tblwd August 30, 2009

Sept. 6, 2009 Sept. 13, 2009 Sept. 20, 2009 Sept. 27, 2009

Oct. 4, 2009 Oct. 11, 2009 Oct. 18, 2009 Oct. 25, 2009

Nov. 1, 2009 Nov. 8, 2009 Nov. 15, 2009 Nov. 22, 2009 Nov. 29, 2009

Dec. 6, 2009 Dec. 13, 2009 Dec. 20, 2009 Dec. 24, 2009 Dec. 27, 2009

December 23, 2009: 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal; Linda Gone = Wynema Cessna

December 27, 2009

Sound System: Aaron Hamlett (620-805-2434) & Steven Buchele

Introit: “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” (Vs.1 #31)

Prayer of Appr. Response: “Amen” (#586)

Ministry of Music: “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” Janet Major, Soloist

Prayer Response: #23 Vs.1 “Angels, We Have Heard on High” (All Sing)

An-gels we have heard on high. Sweet-ly sing-ing o’er the plains,

And the moun-tains in reply Ech-o-ing their joy-ous strains.

Glo- - -ri-a in ex-cel-sis De-o; Glo - - -ri-a in ex-cel-sis De-o.

All please share thanks and appreciation to Wynema for blessing us with her talents this Sunday.

Service for the Lord’s Day

First Sunday after Christmas

December 27, 2009____ ___ _ __ __ 10:45 AM

GATHERING

Prelude

Welcome and Concerns of the Church Leader

Introit “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” Chancel Choir

Call to Worship

Pastor: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Leader: Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.

People: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.

Leader: The grace of God has appeared.

People: Bringing salvation to all.

Leader:

*Hymn of Praise “Joy to the World” No. 40

*Prayer of Approach Leader

Response “Amen” Chancel Choir

*Confession and Pardon

Invitation to Confession Pastor

*Confession of Sin (Unison) Leader

Glorious Lord, You sent us a Savior– heaven’s light breaking into human night. Yet we close our doors to your light, afraid to give you room in our midst. Still, your light shines; your mercy refuses to let our rejection quench the light of your love.

Forgive us for denying your due honor. Lift us by your Spirit to join angelic hosts in anthems of joy and peace, brought to us in the holy advent of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

*Declaration of Pardon and God’s Claim on Us Pastor

*Gloria Patri “Glory Be to the Father” No. 579

THE WORD

Prayer for Illumination Leader

God our helper, by your Holy Spirit, open our minds, that as the Scriptures are read

and your Word is proclaimed, we may be led into your truth, and taught your will,

for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord.

First Reading Isaiah 61:10-62:3 Pg. 656

Anthem “Rise Up Shepherd & Follow” Chancel Choir

Children’s Sermon Pat Sanders

Gospel Reading Luke 2:22-40 Pg. 55

Sermon “After Christmas, Then What?” James O Pitts, III

Invitation to Discipleship

We invite anyone who wishes to confess faith in Christ as Lord and Savior, who desires to reaffirm our baptismal faith, who seeks baptism for a child, or who requests prayer with the laying on of hands to come forward during the next hymn.

*Hymn of Meditation “What Child Is This” No. 53

Prayers of the People

Response “Angels, We Have Heard on High” No. 23 vs. 1

An-gels we have heard on high. Sweet-ly sing-ing o’er the plains,

And the moun-tains in reply Ech-o-ing their joy-ous strains.

Glo- - -ri-a in ex-cel-sis De-o; Glo - - -ri-a in ex-cel-sis De-o.

OUR RESPONSE TO GOD

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

*Prayer of Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer

*Passing of Christ’s Peace

Pastor: Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us forgive one another.

The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all

People: And also with you.

SENDING

*Charge

*Blessing

*Hymn of Dedication “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly” No. 37

Postlude

*All those who wish may stand

Greeters - The Watson family

Lay Reader - Rod and Mary Lynn Buchele

Ushers - Doug, Mike and Shelby Heatwole

Fellowship - Ron and Janet Major

Sound Technician - Aaron Hamlett and Steven Buchele

This Week’s Birthdays

Today - Steven Buchele

Thursday - Gary Salyer

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Mitchell Lehman, Leona Meadors, Jonell Friend, Joan Parsons, Abbey Bannister, Blanche Larson, Dale Meadors, Larry Zant, Rolland Mathias, Jim Wharton, Tom Meschke, Gladys Cripe, Linda Friesner, Pam Smith, Hazel Skinner, Gerri McKernam, Debbie Harden, Faye Hunt, Blanche Wolfe, Ethel Kern, Eunice and Ralph Cooper, Charlie Robinson, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Eden Murphy, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request).

God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

Please pray for: Mitchell, Mason and Riley Bock and family on the passing of Laurie, Bob Halloran on the passing of his mother Eleanor and his brother Randy, Connie and Ken Harsha on the passing her mother Ruth Buehler, the family of Robbin (Bannister) Ward, Debbie and George Wharton on the passing of Debbie’s mother Jackie Cole.

This week’s prayer family: Randy, Becky, Mandi, Amy and Zack McVey.

This week’s prayer church: Westminster Woods Camp.

There will be no dinner or Adult/youth group activities

December 30th.

We will resume meeting on Wednesday, January 6, 2010.

The annual stewardship campaign for the Garden City Presbyterian Church is coming to an end. Thank you for all who have so faithfully supported our church this last year and another thank you to those that have made a pledge to support our important ministry for another year. Without commitments like yours we could not go into the New Year with confidence that our ministry could continue in this community and around the world. For those who want to make a pledge, but have not made one yet, there is still time to stop by the office. It is important to note that unpledged gifts are also very important to the financial strength of our church and are greatly appreciated. If you would like to consider a 2nd mile giving, we have some special projects ahead. We have now installed our new sound system and perhaps you would like to designate a donation.

Thank you.

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITIES

Sunday, December 27

Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Monday, December 28

Praise Team @ 7:00 pm

Wednesday, December 29

Choir @ 7:30 pm

Sunday, January 3

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday School @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

December 23, 2009: 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal; Linda Gone = Wynema Cessna

December 24, 2009 Soloists, no choir on Christmas Eve Communion(2009)

Sound System: Aaron & Steven will both be at the service

Introit: None

Prayer of App. None

Ministry of Music: Possibly “Suo Gan”(Double Check Spelling)?? with Daryl Hamlett & Aubrey Whippo, Duet

Song of Gathering: #47 "Still, Still, Still" (All Sing, lead by Daryl or Aubrey)

Hymn of Praise (Jim):

Hymn of Meditation (Jim):

Hymn of Dedication (Jim):

Service for the Lord’s Day

Christmas Eve

December 24, 2009_____ ___ _ __ __ 7:00 PM

THE GATHERING

Prelude

Call to Worship

Pastor: Arise, shine: for your Light has come

People: And the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.

Leader: For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples.

People: But the Lord will arise upon you, and His glory will be seen upon you.

Leader: Nations shall come to your light.

People: And kings to the brightness of your rising.

Welcome

Lighting of the Advent Wreath

Prayer of Approach Leader

THE WORD OF GOD IN EIGHT LESSONS

Introduction to the Drama of Incarnation and Redemption Pastor

First Lesson Genesis 3:9-15 - Human Facing God Bob Law

*Hymn No. 38 “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” vs. 1, 2, & 4

Mary Lynn Buchele - Flute

Second Lesson Genesis 22:1-18 - Abraham’s Trust Audrey Law

*Hymn No. 22 “Angels From the Realms of Glory” vs. 1 & 2

Third Lesson Micah 5:2-4 - Shepherd King Born Humble Ellen Lynn

*Hymn No. 44 “O Little Town of Bethlehem” vs. 1 & 2

Fourth Lesson Isaiah 9:2-7 - The Messianic King Ellen Lynn

Solo “Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming” Janet Major

Fifth Lesson Luke 1:26-38 - The Annunciation to Mary Wayne Lynn

*Hymn No. 23 “Angels We Have Heard on High” vs. 1, 2, & 3

Mary Lynn Buchele - Flute

Sixth Lesson Matthew 1:18-25 Ron Major

*Hymn No. 31 “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” vs. 1 & 2

Seventh Lesson Luke 2:1-20 Ron Major

*Hymn No. 25 “Away in the Manger” vs. 1 & 2

Mary Lynn Buchele - Flute

Eighth Lesson John 1:1-14 - The Meaning of the Incarnation Mike Collins

Solo “Mary, Did You Know?” Daryl Hamlett

THE EUCHARIST

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

Invitation to the Lord’s Table We invite to this table all Christians from any tradition

Great Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer

The Dialogue:

Pastor: The Lord be with you.

People: And also with you.

Pastor: Lift up your hearts.

People: We lift them up to the Lord.

Pastor: Let us give thanks to our the Lord our God.

People: It is right to give thanks and praise.

Breaking of the Bread

Song of Gathering "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent" No. 5

Communion of the People

Prayer after Communion

SENDING

*Lighting of the Candles “Silent Night” No. 60

*Charge

*Blessing

*Postlude

*All those who wish may stand.

(The Pastor will light the elders candles from the Christ Candle. The elders will

light candles at the end of the pews; please share your light with those sitting

around you. Light your candle and say a silent prayer for peace. After the singing of “Silent Night”, please carefully extinguish your candle and return it to an ushe following the service.)

December 16, 2009: 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal after Children’s Christmas Program

December 20, 2009

Sound System: Aaron Hamlett (620-805-2434) & Steven Buchele

Introit: “Arise”

Prayer of Appr. Response: “Another Christmas”

Ministry of Music: “We Want to Be Ready”

Prayer Response: “Angels, We Have Heard on High”

Hymn of Praise (Jim):

Hymn of Meditation (Jim):

Hymn of Dedication (Jim):

Service for the Lord’s Day

Fourth Sunday of Advent

December 20, 2009_____ ___ _ __ __ 10:45 AM

GATHERING

Prelude

Welcome and Concerns of the Church Leader

Introit “Arise” Chancel Choir

Call to Worship

Pastor: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and forever. Amen.

Leader: From Bethlehem there is to come the one who is to rule in Israel.

People: Whose origin is from old, from ancient days.

Leader: And we shall live secure, for his name shall be great to the ends of the earth.

People: And he shall be the one of peace

Lighting of the Advent Candle

*Hymn of Praise “O, Come O Come Emmanuel” No. 9

Advent Litany

Pastor: O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High, pervading and permeating all creation, you order all things with strength and gentleness: Come now and teach us the way to salvation.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Adonai, Ruler of the house of Israel, you appeared in the burning bush to Moses and gave him the law on Sinai: Come with outstretched arm to save us.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Root of Jesse, rising as a sign for all the peoples. before you earthly rulers will keep silent, and nations give you honor: Come quickly to deliver us.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Key of David, Scepter over the house of Israel, you open and no one can close, you close and no one can open; Come to set free the prisoners who live in darkness and the shadow of death.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, Sun of justice: Come, shine on those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Ruler of the nations, Monarch for whom the people long, you are the Cornerstone uniting all humanity: Come, save us all, whom you formed out of clay.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Immanuel, our Sovereign and Lawgiver, desire of the nations and Savior of all: Come and save us, O Lord our God.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: God of grace, ever faithful to your promises, the earth rejoices in hope of our Savior’s coming and looks forward with longing to his return at the end of time. Prepare our hearts to receive him when he comes, for he is Lord forever and ever.

People: Amen.

Response “Another Christmas” Chancel Choir

THE WORD

Prayer for Illumination Leader

O holy and eternal Father, send your Spirit through the Son into our hearts to enable us to hear and to receive that word which you have prompted your church to record in the Scriptures. May that be for us not simply a word from the past but also a living word to guide and challenge our present. Through Christ our Lord, we pray .

First Reading Micah 5:2-4 Pg. 820

Anthem “We Want to Be Ready” Chancel Choir

Placing of the Advent Character

Gospel Reading Luke 1:39-45 Pg. 54

Sermon James O. Pitts, III

Invitation to Discipleship

We invite anyone who wishes to confess faith in Christ as Lord and Savior, who desires to reaffirm our baptismal faith, who seeks baptism for a child or who requests prayer with the laying on of handsto come forward during the next hymn.

*Hymn of Meditation “O Little Town of Bethlehem” No. 44

Prayers of the People

Response “Angels, We Have Heard on High” Chancel Choir

OUR RESPONSE TO GOD

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

*Prayer of Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer

*Passing of Christ’s Peace

Pastor: Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us forgive one another.

The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all

People: And also with you.

SENDING

*Charge

*Blessing

*Hymn of Dedication “O Lord, How Shall I Meet You?” No. 11

Postlude

*All those who wish may stand.

Greeters - Jon and Patti Ansley

Advent family - Elizabeth Hodges, Gordon and Priscilla Hallberg

Ushers - Youth

Fellowship - Joy Anstaett

Sound Technicians - Aaron Hamlett and Steven Buchele

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Laurie Bock, Jonell Friend, Joan Parsons, Leona Meadors, Abbey Bannister, Blanche Larson, Dale Meadors, Larry Zant, Rolland Mathias, Jim Wharton, Tom Meschke, Gladys Cripe, Linda Friesner, Pam Smith, Hazel Skinner, Gerri McKernam, Debbie Harden, Faye Hunt, Blanche Wolfe, Ethel Kern, Eunice and Ralph Cooper, Charlie Robinson, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Eden Murphy, Annabelle Yocky, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request).

God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

Please pray for: Bob Halloran on the passing of his mother Eleanor and his brother Randy, Connie and Ken Harsha on the passing her mother Ruth Buehler, the family of Robbin (Bannister) Ward, Debbie and George Wharton on the passing of Debbie’s mother Jackie Cole, Joe York and family on the passing of his brother George.

This week’s prayer families: Blanche, Van, Anita, Gary and Carolyn Salyer.

This week’s prayer church: First Presbyterian Church of Medicine Lodge, KS.

This Week’s Birthdays

Today - Janet Major

Thursday - Joe Burnside

Joy Offering

A special offering envelope is enclosed in the bulletin. We will be receiving the offering during today’s worship. Thank you for your gift in support of retired and needy church workers and to bring the light of education to racial and ethnic students.

Christmas Eve Communion Candlelight Service

will begin at 7:00 pm.

Elders of the Class of 2009 will be assisting with Communion.

It is a great joy to have members of St. James Lutheran and the Presbyterian Chancel Choirs, and members of our congregations come together to offer their talents in a musical worship experience.

Thank you to all who participated and attended the Cantata.

Kevin Ochampaugh - Director of Music

2010 Church Directory

The 2010 Church Directory will soon be printed.

If you have any changes to the information listed in the directory from last year, please let the office know.

Email address cannot be published without your

approval, if you wish for your email address to appear in the

directory please submit your email address to the office. Thank you.

Strings Academy of the Plains invites you to a Christmas Concert directed by Priscilla Hallberg, Sunday, December 20, at 7:00 pm at the United Methodist Church 500 Arapahoe, Satanta, KS.

There is no charge for admission and there will be a reception following the concert.

Emmaus House

With Christmas only a few days away, Emmaus House is still in need of Ham/Chicken; Baked Beans; Mashed or Sliced Potatoes.

Please drop them off at the Emmaus House by Dec. 22.

As you do your holiday grocery shopping, you can help fund our youth mission trips by purchasing Dillon’s certificates. Available after worship, or in the church office.

There will be no dinner or Adult/youth group activities

December 23rd or 30th.

We will resume meeting on Wednesday, January 6, 2010.

Poinsettia Donations

The following families have donated poinsettias in

memory or in honor of loved ones:

In loving memory of Harvey Richards

by Ruth Richards and the Deaver family

In loving memory of Marilyn Saunders by the Saunders family

In loving memory of Burton Lisk by Martha and Ruth Lisk

In loving memory of Warren Fouse by Jo Fouse and family

In loving memory of Garnet Reid by Anna Reid

In loving memory of Gary Friend by Jonell Friend

In loving memory of Harriett Noland by Jonell Friend

In loving memory of Tom Dimitt by Jonell Friend

In loving memory of Pauline and OM Patterson

by Paulasue and Robert Patterson and Granddaughters Traci Webster and Somer Patterson

In honor of their parents by Daryl and Ann Hamlett

In loving memory of Emil Salyer by Blanche, Gary, Van and Ray Salyer

In loving memory of Frank & Betty Ellis

by Chad and Nancy Woods & family

In honor of our Church by Kelley and Larry Jenkins

Across the Pastor’s Desk

The Twelve Days of Christmas

This year our services from the Fourth Sunday in Advent to the Epiphany celebration in January will form one continuous whole. Today we will hear the story of the angel speaking to Joseph in a dream; Christmas Eve celebrates the birth of the Christ Child; the Sunday after Christmas extends the meaning of the Incarnation; and Epiphany celebrates the nations of the world coming to the Christ Child, as symbolized by the Magi (the Wise Men) from the East. The significance of this continuous celebration of the Incarnation from the Joseph to the Epiphany is that it preserves for us more of the biblical narratives and stresses the teaching of the central Christian tradition.

In the early years of Christianity two different types of celebrations of Christ’s coming into history became extremely popular. One, originating in Alexandria, Egypt in 150 A.D., celebrated the manifestation of the Divine Light to the Gentiles through the Christ Child. It focused on the coming of

the Wise Men and spread throughout the Eastern, Greek speaking Church. It was celebrated on January 6. The second, originating around Carthage in North Africa, focused on the birth of the Christ Child and spread throughout the Western, Latin speaking Church. It was celebrated on December 25. For years the two sections of the church fought about which celebration was the most faithful, with neither group convincing the other. In the 300's each side adopted the practice of the other side, while maintaining their own tradition. This gave us the now famous “Twelve Days of Christmas”.

Frequently it is asked: “Why should modern Western Christians worry about all of this?” One obvious value in celebrating both Christmas and Epiphany lies in this practice fixing in our hearts and memories the manifold meanings of the Christ event. This practice also provides a vivid, dramatic

portrayal of the twin approaches to answering the question: “What Child is this, who laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping?” Western and Eastern Christianity tend to answer this question slightly differently. Each side expressed its distinctive flavor in familiar hymnody. Western Christianity tends to see Jesus “from below”, from the perspective of his true humanity, as in “Lo how a rose e’er bloometh from tender stem hath sprung. Of Jesse’s lineage coming, by faithful prophets foretold.”. Eastern Christians tend to see Jesus as coming “from above”, from the perspective of coming down from eternity, as in “Let all mortal flesh keep silence and with fear and trembling stand. Ponder nothing earthly minded, for with blessings in his hand, Christ our God to earth descendeth, our full homage to demand”.

Both of these relative emphases merit our attention, and both are needed by a generation which seems to be confused about who this Jesus of Nazareth is. The Western emphasis (true human being) becomes easily corrupted into “merely human” without the Eastern emphasis on “being sent by God from eternity.” The Eastern emphasis (“God from God and light from light”) quickly becomes a form of unrealistic supernaturalism completely disconnected from ordinary human experience without the emphasis of the “Logos (Word of God) taking on human nature.” Both emphases are needed to give a fuller understanding of who this man from Nazareth is. With the universal creed of the Christian Church we profess him to be: “... at once complete in Godhead and complete in manhood, truly God and truly human... one and the same Son (of God), our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Taken from the creed of the Council of Chalcedon, 451 A.D.)

Jim

Sunday, December 20 - 4th Sunday of Advent

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Monday, December 21

Session @ 6:30 pm, Praise Team @ 7:00 pm

Wednesday, December 23

Choir @ 7:30 pm

Thursday, December 24

Worship w/Communion @ 7:00 pm

Shut-in Communion

Friday, December 25 - Christmas Day

No activities

December 9, 2009: 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal for Cantata; 6:30pm rehearse with Brass

December 13, 2009 8:30am Dress Rehearsal for Cantata w/ Doughnuts & Coffee Following

Sound System: Aaron Hamlett (620-805-2434) & Steven Buchele

FESTIVAL OF LESSONS AND CAROLS, December 13, (Rehearsal Sheet) Final Rehearsal 8:30am Sunday

Brass, Congregation @10:45 AM #9 “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” Choir will Process in after Start

First Part of Church Service occurs. Then Cantata Begins.

FESTIVAL OF LESSONS AND CAROLS

December 13, 2009; Linda Adams, piano & organ; Bold type indicates congregational participation

“ONCE IN ROYAL DAVID’S CITY” Congregation, Choir, Brass, Bells

Soloist Joy Anstaett Congregation: He came down to earth from heav-en Who is God and Lord of all, And His shel-ter was a sta-ble,And His cra-dle was a stall. With the poor and mean and low Lived our Sav-ior long a-go.

THE BIDDING PRAYER Pastor A.J. Striffler

Dear people in Christ, in this joyful season of Christmas, let us prepare to hear once again the song of the Angels, and in heart and mind go to Bethlehem and see this thing which is come to pass, the birth of our Savior. Let us pray for the needs of the whole world and all God’s people; for peace on the earth and for love and unity within Christ’s church. Let us remember the poor, the cold, the hungry, and the oppressed, all who are sick, all who mourn, the lonely, the unloved, and all who do not know or love the Lord. And finally, let us remember all who rejoice with us both here on earth and in heaven with whom we are one in the Lord. Amen.

“BREAK FORTH, O BEAUTEOUS, HEAVENLY LIGHT” Priscilla Hallberg, Violin

“TO US A CHILD IS BORN” on cue during music Teri Sutherlin

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

“BREAK FORTH, O BEAUTEOUS, HEAVENLY LIGHT” Choir & Priscilla Hallberg, Violin

“THE BRANCH FROM JESSE” Yvonne Battles

And the prophecy was foretold. A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him – the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord – and he will delight in the fear of the Lord. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them. The cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. The infant will play near the hole of the cobra, and the young child put his hand into the viper’s nest. They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

“LO, HOW A ROSE E’ER BLOOMING” Choir, Brass, Solo: Randy McVey

“A PROMISED RULER FROM BETHLEHEM” Steven Buchele

Imagine being in an average home in Bethlehem those many years ago. Like us they worried about life. They struggled with their faith. Perhaps from across the table someone said “ life is hard but remember what is written.” “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be their peace.”

“O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM” Choir, Brass, & Youth

“THE BIRTH OF JESUS FORETOLD” Krista Brown

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.” “how will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” Then the angel left her.

“O HOW JOYFULLY” Choir & Brass

“THE BIRTH OF JESUS” Carol Hodgkinson

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

“AWAY IN A MANGER” Congregation, Choir, Brass

A-way in a man-ger no crib for a bed, the lit-tle Lord Je-sus laid down His sweet head.

The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay, the lit-tle Lord Je-sus a-sleep on the hay.

Choir Sings

Be near me, Lord Je-sus; I ask Thee to stay close by me for-ev-er, and love me, I pray.

Bless all the dear chil-dren in Thy ten-der care, and take us to heav-en to live with Thee there.

“THE SHEPHERDS AND THE ANGELS” Brevin Irvin

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks by night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

“THE CANON CAROL” Choir & Priscilla Hallberg, soloist

“CLOSING PRAYERS” Pastor A.J. Striffler

And so the lessons have been told & the carols have nearly all been sung and we remember. . .

Please stand now if able and join me in the Closing Prayer:

Almighty God, you who gave your only-begotten Son to take away our sins: grant that we being reborn, and made your children through your grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord, l who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen

May the Lord Jesus fill you with the sweetness of inward peace; and the blessing of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be upon you and remain with you always. Amen.

“HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS, SING” Handbells, Congregation, Choir, Brass, & Percussion

Hark! The her-ald an-gels sing, “Glo-ry to the new born King; peace on earth, and mer-cy mild, God and sin-ners rec-on-ciled.” Joy-ful, all you na-tions, rise, join the tri-umph of the skies; with an-gel-ic hosts pro-claim, “Christ is born in Beth-le-hem!” Hark! The her-ald an-gels sing, “Glo-ry to the new-born King!”

Choir will finish the Carol.

Final Part of the church service will occur and then the recessional will begin with the choir going to the back of the church to form a reception line as we sing and the brass play.

#41 “O Come, All Ye Faithful” Choir, Brass, Congregation

Service for the Lord’s Day

Third Sunday of Advent

December 13, 2009_____ ___ _ __ __ 10:45 AM

THE GATHERING

Prelude Carolyn Klassen

Processional Hymn: “O, Come O Come Emmanuel” No. 9

Congregation and Choir

Welcome and Concerns Pastor Pitts

Call to Worship

Pastor: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and forever. Amen.

Pastor: Salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.

People: The night is far gone, the day is near.

Pastor: The days are surely coming, says the Lord.

People: When I will fulfill the promise

Pastor: I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David.

People: And he shall execute justice and righteousness.

Pastor: In accordance with God’s promise

People: We wait for new heavens and a new earth where righteousness is at home.

Lighting of the Advent Candles Pastor Pitts and Pastor Striffler

Advent Litany

Pastor: O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High, pervading and permeating all creation, you order all things with strength and gentleness: Come now and teach us the way to salvation.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Adonai, Ruler of the house of Israel, you appeared in the burning bush to Moses and gave him the law on Sinai: Come with outstretched arm to save us.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Root of Jesse, rising as a sign for all the peoples. before you earthly rulers will keep silent, and nations give you honor: Come quickly to deliver us.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Key of David, Scepter over the house of Israel, you open and no one can close, you close and no one can open; Come to set free the prisoners who live in darkness and the shadow of death.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, Sun of justice: Come, shine on those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Ruler of the nations, Monarch for whom the people long, you are the Cornerstone uniting all humanity: Come, save us all, whom you formed out of clay.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

Pastor: O Immanuel, our Sovereign and Lawgiver, desire of the nations and Savior of all: Come and save us, O Lord our God.

People: Come, Lord Jesus.

People: Amen.

THE WORD OF GOD: Festival of Lessons and Carols

“Once in Royal David’s City” Congregation and Choir

Solo verse: Joy Anstaett

Congregational Verse: He came down to earth from heav-en Who is God and Lord of all, and His shel-ter was a sta-ble, and His cra-dle was a stall. With the poor and mean and low lived our Sav-ior long a-go.

Introduction Pastor Striffler

“Break Forth, O Beauteous Light” Priscilla Hallberg on Violin

Reading 1: Isaiah 9: 2, 6, 7 “To Us a Child is Born” Teri Sutherlin

“Break Forth, O Beauteous, Heavenly Light” Choir and Priscilla Hallberg on Violin

Reading 2: Isaiah 11: 1-4, 6-9 “The Branch From Jesse” Yvonne Battles

“Lo, How a Rose E’er Bloometh” Soloist-Randy McVey, Priscilla Hallberg on Violin

Reading 3: Micah 5:2-5a “A Promised Ruler From Bethlehem” Steven Buchele

Imagine being in an average home in Bethlehem those many years ago. Like us they worried about life. They struggled with their faith. Perhaps from across the table some one said “ life is hard but remember what is written.” “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be their peace.”

“O Little Town of Bethlehem” Choir, Brass, and Youth

Reading 4: Luke 1: 26-35, 38 “The Birth of Jesus Foretold” Krista Brown

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a

virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The

virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.” “how will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” Then the angel left her.

“O How Joyfully” Choir and Brass

Reading 5: Luke 2:1-7 “The Birth of Jesus” Carol Hodgkinson

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her first born, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

“Away In the Manger” Congregation, Choir, and Brass

A-way in a man-ger no crib for a bed, the lit-tle Lord Je-sus laid down His sweet head. The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay, the lit-tle Lord Je-sus a-sleep on the hay.

Choir Sings

Be near me, Lord Je-sus; I ask Thee to stay close by me for-ev-er, and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear chil-dren in Thy ten-der care, and take us to heav-en to live with Thee there.

Reading 6: Luke 2: 8-36 “The Shepherds and the Angels” Brevin Irvin

“The Canon Carol” Choir and Soloist Priscilla Hallberg

Closing Collect Pastor Striffler Hymn “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”

Congregation, Choir, Hand bells, Brass and Percussions

(Choir will finish the Carol)

Meditation “The Word Became Flesh” Pastor Pitts

Prayers of the People Pastor Pitts

OUR RESPONSE TO GOD

Offertory with Doxology Pastor Striffler

Prayer of Thanksgiving concluding with Lord’s Prayer Pastor Pitts

THE SENDING

Advent Charge Pastor Pitts

Blessing Pastor Striffler

Recessional Hymn: “O Come All Ye Faithful” No. 41

Postlude

Hand bells: Nancy Woods & Ann Hamlett

Percussion: Jacob & Jonathan Ochampaugh

Brass: Kevin Thompson & Kyle Ochampaugh, trumpets

Paul White, Trace Woods trombones

Flute: Mary Lynn Buchele

The ushers will pass the friendship pads during the welcome. Hearing devices and Spanish/English Bibles are available (Hay bíblias en español para los que los quieren, pida a los ayudantes del oficio). If you need one, please ask an usher for assistance. Worship bags and activity sheets are available in the atrium for children of Kindergarten age and younger (1 per family). Page numbers for the Bible passages used in worship are included in the bulletin.

Greeters - The Jones family

Ushers - Ron Major, Sandra and Kirsten Neff

Fellowship - Adah, Kelley and Larry Jenkins

Sound Technicians - Aaron Hamlett and Steven Buchele

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Laurie Bock, Joan Parsons, Leona Meadors, Faye Hunt, Abbey Bannister, Blanche Larson, Dale Meadors, Larry Zant, Rolland Mathias, Jim Wharton, Tom Meschke, Debbie Harden, Gladys Cripe, Linda Friesner, Tanya Pyle, Pam Smith, Hazel Skinner, Gerri McKernam, Blanche Wolfe, Ethel Kern, Eunice and Ralph Cooper, Charlie Robinson, Jonell Friend, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Eden Murphy, Annabelle Yocky, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request). God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

This week’s prayer families: Kathy Friesen, Jeanne Hamilton,

Carol Hodgkinson, Donna Jameson, and Dorothea Kline.

This week’s prayer church: Community Presbyterian Church of Chase, KS.

Poinsettia Donations

The following families have donated poinsettias in

memory or in honor of loved ones:

In loving memory of Harvey Richards

by Ruth Richards and the Deaver family

In loving memory of Marilyn Saunders by the Saunders family

In loving memory of Burton Lisk by Martha and Ruth Lisk

In loving memory of Warren Fouse by Jo Fouse and family

In loving memory of Garnet Reid by Anna Reid

In loving memory of Gary Friend by Jonell Friend

In loving memory of Harriett Noland by Jonell Friend

In loving memory of Tom Dimitt by Jonell Friend

In loving memory of Pauline and OM Patterson

by Paulasue and Robert Patterson and

Granddaughters Traci Webster and Somer Patterson

In honor of their parents by Daryl and Ann Hamlett

In memory of Emil Salyer by Blanche, Gary, Van and Ray Salyer

In honor of our Church by Kelley and Larry Jenkins

As you do your holiday grocery shopping, you can help fund our youth mission trips by purchasing Dillon’s certificates. Available after worship, or in the church office.

We will be collecting the Christmas Joy Offering on Sunday,

December 20^th. Please remember to bring in your coin banks.

Across the Pastor’s Desk

The Framework for Sunday Worship

We welcome our sister congregation, St. James Lutheran with their pastor, not only to join us in worship, but as members of the choir and participants in today’s beautiful cantata! It has been carefully crafted to be the showpiece of the Advent-Christmas season. Our General Assembly has urged all Presbyterian congregations to make occasions for joint services with other Christians. So welcome St. James and Pastor Tony!

Today’s service is a bit different from our usual morning service, but only in its surface appearance! If you notice the bulletin outline, you will see the four basic movements for every Sunday and special occasion: Gathering, the Word of God, Our Response to God, and Sending! Occasionally someone asks, “Why?” The core reason is that this is the movement of the worship service offered by the majority of Christian Churches throughout history. At different times in history, the names of the movements have varied. Nevertheless beneath all verbal differences it is easy to detect these four basic movements, especially when we gather for the primary service of the week. All types of services reflect these four basic movements.

Some people have asked, “What do you mean by primary service of the week?” Our Directory for Worship answers that question this way: “The central occasion for nurture in the church is the Service for the Lord’s Day, when the Word is proclaimed and the Sacraments are celebrated. The primary service of worship on Sunday is the Service for the Lord’s Day...” Our Directory further stipulates: “Care should be taken to preserve the integrity of the Service for the Lord’s Day.” and “the order of worship should reflect the principles of worship in this directory as they relate to the particular

occasion.” Thus we have this beautiful service today that has been carefully crafted to reflect the themes of the Advent-Christmas season. Please note how carefully Kevin has chosen portions of a longer service and added a mixture of instruments and solos at strategic places. It will be a pleasing and artful blend! Thus we have a carefully crafted Christmas cantata within an equally carefully crafted worship framework! To this we now turn.

Gathering: The Advent note is struck by the first hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”. A “religious” Christmas cannot be understood apart from a sense of longing of old Israel (and other peoples) for a redeemer and savior. Then follows the lighting of the Advent Wreath which expresses a summary of old Israel’s hopes. The first prayer is an ancient litany directed to Christ, addressing him in a variety of traditional titles. Though relatively brief, the Gathering phase sets the stage for the featured part of our service: the Festival of Lessons and Carols, a cantata selected by Kevin and led by our joint Lutheran-Presbyterian choir.

The Word of God: This cantata, arranged by John Leavitt, is a traditional Christmas service used by many English-speaking Christians on Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day. Since it consists of so many well-chosen Bible passages with carols and hymns interspersed, this phase of the liturgy is greatly expanded (from normal usage) to tell the Christmas story. Kevin has improved on Leavitt’s original version by adding so many different instruments and by alternating the singing among solo voices, the choir, and the congregation. The cantata will conclude with a hymn and a brief prayer - the closing collect.

Because interpretation of the Scripture is so fundamental for all Reformed worship, I selected a reading that interprets the meaning of Christmas from a longer sermon by James Smart. The need for unambiguous interpretation of the meaning of Christ has become imperative in our day when so many inadequate understandings abound on TV, in novels, and other media, as well as within our society itself. As the leading theologian of the last century implied so often: “A correct Christology will yield a healthy religious system”. With the cantata itself this interpretation of the meaning of Incarnation of our Lord forms the first high point.

The last two movements of today’s service are relatively brief. Our Response to God consists today only of our offering and a prayer of thanksgiving. Properly this phase would have the celebration of the Eucharist, as well. Since we are in the process across the nation of moving in that direction, at least for the time-being, we focus the note of thanksgiving in an appropriate Advent prayer. Many times this has been called “the Prayer of Dedication”, but is more properly one of thanksgiving with dedication included within it. When we do not celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the offering with its prayer of thanksgiving followed by the Lord’s Prayer forms the climax toward which the second half of our service builds.

The Sending consists of a special Advent Charge from the Church of Scotland and a hymn that invites us all to come to Bethlehem and to the manger for the next several weeks, as we unfold the many facets of the Christ event. Following the Recessional hymn, please take some time to express appreciation to Kevin, the choir, and all other participants.

Jim

Sunday, December 13 - 3rd Sunday of Advent

Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am - Cantata

Monday, December 14

Praise Team @ 7:00 pm

Tuesday, December 15

Stewardship @ 6:30 pm

Wednesday, December 16

Pot luck Dinner @ 6:00 pm, Children’s program @ 6:30 pm, Choir @ 7:30 pm

Thursday, December 17

Deacons @ 6:30 pm, Bible Study @ 6:45 pm

Sunday, December 20 - 4th Sunday of Advent

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Service for the Lord’s Day

Second Sunday of Advent

December 6, 2009_____ ___ _ __ __ 10:45 AM

God expressed his loved for all mankind through Israel, whom he chose to

be his covenant people to serve him in love and faithfulness. When Israel was unfaithful, he disciplined the nation with his judgments and maintained his cause through prophets, priests, teachers, and true believers. These witnesses call all Israelites to a destiny in which they would serve God faithfully and become a light to the nations. The same witnesses proclaimed the coming of a new age, and a true servant of God in whom God’s purpose for Israel and for mankind would be realized.

Out of Israel, God in due time raised up Jesus. His faith and obedience were the response of the perfect child of God. He was the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel, the beginning of the new creation, and the pioneer of the new humanity. He gave history its meaning and direction and called the church to be his servant for the reconciliation of the world.

GATHERING

Prelude

Welcome and Concerns of the Church Leader

Introit “Arise” Chancel Choir

Call to Worship

Pastor: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and forever. Amen.

Leader: Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel!

People: Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem!

Leader: Shout aloud and sing for joy!

People: For great in our midst is the Holy One of Israel.

Lighting of the Advent Candle

We light this candle as a sign of the coming light of Christ.

Advent means coming.

We are preparing ourselves for the days:

Isa. 2:4

when the nations shall beat their swords into plowshares,

and their spears into pruning hooks;

nation shall not lift up sword against nation,

neither shall they learn war any more.

Isa. 11:6

The wolf shall dwell with the lamb,

The leopard shall lie down with the kid,

The calf and the lion and the fatling together,

And a little child shall lead them.

Let us walk in the light of the Lord.

*Hymn of Praise “On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry” No. 10

*Prayer of Approach Leader

Almighty God, you send your Son into a world where the wheat must be winnowed from chaff and wickedness clings even to what is good. Let the fire of your Spirit purge us of greed and deceit, so that, purified, we may find our peace in you and you may delight in us. We ask this through him whose coming is certain, whose day draws near, your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Response “Another Christmas” Chancel Choir

*Confession and Pardon

*Call to Confession Pastor

*Confession of Sin (Unison) Leader

God of strength and might, we proclaim, “The Lord is near!” Yet we fret over our destiny, clutching your good gifts anxiously, afraid to share those gifts with others.

Forgive us for living as though you were not among us, and your good promises meant nothing. Renew us with your Spirit’s fire, that we may bear good fruit of justice, mercy, peace, and gladness - embodying your Good News to all through our Savior, Christ the Lord.

*Declaration of Pardon and God’s Claim on Us Pastor

*Gloria Patri “Glory Be to the Father” No. 579

THE WORD

Prayer for Illumination Leader

O God Almighty, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: Grant us, we pray, to be grounded and settled in your truth by the coming down of the Holy Spirit into our hearts. That which we know not, reveal; that which is wanting in us, fill up; that which we know, confirm; and keep us blameless in your service; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord.

First Reading Malachi 3:1-4 Pg. 842

Anthem “When Will He Come?” Chancel Choir

Placing of the Advent Character

Gospel Reading Luke 3:1-6 Pg. 56

Sermon James O. Pitts, III

Invitation to Discipleship

*Hymn of Meditation “O Lord, How Shall I Meet You?” No. 11

Prayers of the People

Response “Angels We Have Heard on High” (Pg.23 Vs. 1)

An-gels we have heard on high. Sweet-ly sing-ing o’er the plains,

And the moun-tains in reply Ech-o-ing their joy-ous strains.

Glo- - -ri-a in ex-cel-sis De-o; Glo - - -ri-a in ex-cel-sis De-o.

OUR RESPONSE TO GOD

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

*Prayer of Great Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer

*Passing of Christ’s Peace

Pastor: Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us forgive one another.

The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all

People: And also with you.

SENDING

*Charge

*Blessing

*Hymn of Dedication “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus” No. 2

Postlude

*All those who wish may stand

Greeters - The Heatwole family

Advent family - Kurt Peterson, Paula Sloderbeck, and Yvonne Battles

Ushers - Darlene and Madelyn Mathias, Donna Jameson and Adah Jenkins

Fellowship - The Buchele family

Sound Technician - Aaron Hamlett

This Week’s Birthdays

Today - Cole Brown, Joan Davis

Wednesday - Tamara Halloran

Thursday - Jim Wharton

Friday - Rolland Mathias

Saturday –Jacob Major

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Faye Hunt, Abbey Bannister, Blanche Larson, Dale Meadors, Dorothea Kline, Larry Zant, Rolland Mathias, Jim Wharton, Tom Meschke, Laurie Bock, Debbie Harden, Gladys Cripe, Linda Friesner, Tanya Pyle, Pam Smith, Hazel Skinner, Gerri McKernam, Blanche Wolfe, Ethel Kern, Eunice and Ralph Cooper, Charlie

Robinson, Jonell Friend, Bob Swanson, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Annabelle Yocky, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Eden Murphy, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request).

God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

Please pray for: Connie and Ken Harsha on the passing her mother Ruth Buehler, the family of Robbin (Bannister) Ward, Debbie and George Wharton on the passing of Debbie’s mother Jackie Cole, Joe York and family on the passing of his brother George, Bob Halloran on the passing of his brother Randy.

This week’s prayer families: Patsy Roth, Ron and Pat Roth and Jo Fouse.

This week’s prayer church: Presbyterian Church of Kingsdown, KS.

We are now taking orders for Poinsettias to be placed in the Sanctuary during the Advent season in memory or honor of your loved ones.

This year’s poinsettias will be $25.00 for an 8” double plant.

If you'd like to order a poinsettia, please call the office with your request.

“Festival of Lessons and Carols”

December 13, 2009

Members of St James Lutheran Choir and the Presbyterian Chancel Choir invite you to their presentation of the

Christmas Cantata “Festival of Lessons and Carols”

by John Leavitt.

Please mark your calendar and join us for this

holiday musical worship experience.

As you do your holiday grocery shopping,

you can help fund our youth mission trips by purchasing Dillon’s certificates.

Available after worship, or in the church office.

Across the Pastor’s Desk

Advent and the New Creation

Advent presents us with the mystery of God bringing about a transformation of our distorted world with its evil, pain, and injustice. Yet we are given only the barest sketch of what this will eventually mean. Two sections of our Book of Order express in current language something of what this mystery is all about.

God’s redeeming and reconciling activity in the world continues through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, who confronts individuals and societies with Christ’s Lordship of life and calls them to repentance and to obedience to the will of God. The Church of Jesus Christ is the provisional demonstration of what God intends for all of humanity. The Church is called to be a sign in and for the world of the new reality which God has made available to people in Jesus Christ. The new reality revealed in Jesus Christ is the new humanity, a new creation, a new beginning for human life in the world. (G-3.0200)

The church in its worship and ministry is a sign of the reign of God, which is both a present reality and a promise of the future. The church’s worship and service do not make the Kingdom of God come. In an age hostile to the reign of God, the church worships and serves, with confidence that God’s rule has been established and with firm hope in the ultimate manifestation of the triumph of God. In the present age the church’s ministries of evangelism and caring for creation, of compassion and reconciliation are signs of God’s reign and offer hope in the midst of life-denying situations. That hope is not dependent on the success of the church’s ministries or the effectiveness of its worship, but is sustained by the power of God present with the church as it ministers and worships.

(W-7.6002

Jim

FOR YOUR REFRIGERATOR or BULLETIN BOARD

Y’ all Come Wednesday Nights**

Dec. 9

6:00 p.m. Dinner

served by the Woods family

6:30 Programs

Celebrate Kids Club – rehearsal for Christmas Program

PTP & Sr. HI –

bring $5 as we’re going Angel Tree shopping

Adults - Christianity, Cults &

the Occult, in the Library,

led by Linda Adams

Coming up for Youth & Adults

Dec. 16 Potluck Dinner, followed by worship led by the children: “Charlie and the Cherub Cheerleaders”

Dec. 23 & 30 Christmas Break

No Youth or Adult Groups

Jan. 6 Game Night

**This is the perfect opportunity to invite a friend, new neighbor or co-worker to an informal activity at our church!

Sunday, December 6 - 2nd Sunday of Advent

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Monday, December 7

Praise Team @ 7:00 pm

Wednesday, December 9

Dinner @ 6:00 pm, Adult/youth groups @ 6:30 pm, Choir @ 7:30 pm

Thursday, December 10

Mission & Outreach Committee @ 6:00 pm

Saturday , December 12

Children’s Choir practice @ 10:00 am

Sunday, December 13 - 3rd Sunday of Advent

Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Cantata

Service for the Lord’s Day

First Sunday of Advent

November 29, 2009_____ ___ _ __ __ 10:45 AM

GATHERING

Prelude

Welcome and Concerns of the Church Leader

Introit "Come, Now is the Time to Worship" Congregation/Praise Team

Come, now is the time to worship. Come, now is the time to give your heart.

Come, just as you are to worship. Come, just as you are, before your God. Come.

Call to Worship

Pastor: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and forever. Amen.

Leader: When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.

People: Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongues with shouts of joy.

Leader: Then it was said among the nations around us, “The Lord has done great things for them!”

People: The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad indeed!

Leader: The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise; I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness.

Lighting of the Advent Candle

We light this candle as a sign of the coming light of Christ. Advent means coming. We are preparing ourselves for the days: Isa. 2:4

when the nations shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation,

neither shall they learn war any more.Let us walk in the light of the Lord.

*Hymn of Praise “Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates” No. 8

*Prayer of Approach Leader

Faithful God, your promises stand shaken through all generations. Renew us in hope, that we may be awake and alert watching for the glorious return of Jesus Christ, our judge and savior, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen

Response "Amen” (pg. 586 hymnal) Praise Team

*Confession and Pardon

*Call to Confession Pastor

*Confession of Sin (Unison) Leader

God of covenant, we confess that our faith has been small. We have doubted your promises, and have denied your power to free us from captivity, and to establish us in security. We have chosen instead to trust in our own ways and strength. By your tender mercy, forgive our unbelief; fill us with your Holy Spirit, that we may fully trust and obey you. Cast out our sin, and enter in; be born in us today, by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

*Declaration of Pardon and God’s Claim on Us

*Gloria Patri “Glory Be to the Father” No. 579

THE WORD

Prayer for Illumination Leader

God of mercy, you promised never to break your covenant with us. Amid all the changing words of our generation, speak your eternal Word that does not change. Then may we respond to your gracious promises with faithful and obedient lives; through our Lord Jesus Christ.

First Reading Jeremiah 33:14-16 Pg. 699

Anthem “Did You Fell the Mountains Tremble?” Praise Team

Children’s Sermon Pat Sanders

Gospel Reading Mark 21:25-36 Pg. 81

Sermon “The Redemption That Sustains” James O Pitts, III

Invitation to Discipleship

*Hymn of Meditation “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” No. 383

Prayers of the People

Response “Change My Heart, O God” Congregation/Praise Team

Change my heart, O God, make it ever true.

Change my heart, O God, may I be like You.

You are the Potter, I am the clay.

Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

OUR RESPONSE TO GOD

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

*Prayer of Great Thanksgiving

*Passing of Christ’s Peace

Pastor: Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us forgive one another.

The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all

People: And also with you.

SENDING

*Charge

*Blessing

*Hymn of Dedication “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” No. 9

Postlude

*All those who wish may stand

We are now taking orders for Poinsettias to be placed in the

Sanctuary during the Advent season in memory or honor of your loved ones.

This year’s poinsettias will be $25.00 for an 8” double plant.

If you'd like to order a poinsettia, please call the church office

Operation Christmas Child

Are you interested in helping bring the Gospel to millions of children this year?

The Family Bookhouse us needing volunteers to help with

Operation Christmas Child during Collection Week.

Please contact Joan Lobmeyer at 620-272-9142

to see what hours work best and what work is needed.

As you do your holiday grocery shopping, you can help fund our youth mission trips by purchasing Dillon’s certificates. Available after worship, or in the church office.

“Prepare the Way of the Lord”

Our Advent devotion booklet are available in the atrium.

Each day’s entry includes a short reflection and prayer and a suggested journal exercise, so users can create a personal record of prayers and thoughts. Don’t worry about your skills as a writer or artist – it is simply an invitation to reflect in your own way. Advent is a time to open ourselves to the love of God in Christ in a new way, as we ponder the traditional themes of the season:

expectation, hope, preparation and longing.

Christmas Caroling

We will be going Christmas caroling on December 2 after a meal at the church at 6:00 pm. After caroling we will have hot chocolate at the church. Kids, adults who act like kids all are welcome as we hit the streets for some fun and fellowship.

“Festival of Lessons and Carols”

December 13, 2009

Members of St James Lutheran Choir and the Presbyterian Chancel Choir invite you to their presentation of the Christmas Cantata

“Festival of Lessons and Carols.”

Please mark your calendar and join us for a holiday

musical worship experience.

All ladies of the church and their daughters are invited to the Presbyterian Women's Christmas Tea on Sunday December 6th at 2 p.m. in the fellowship hall. We will be having our Thank Offering and installation of officers for the 2010 year. Please bring a batch of your favorite Christmas cookies to share.

Thank you to all who helped with the Hanging of the Green, the children’s Advent Workshop and the worship service afterward!

Across the Pastor’s Desk

Advent and the Return of Christ

One pastor recently commented: “We Presbyterians tend to discount the idea of Christ’s Second Coming!” This may be true of particular pastors and members. It is not at all true of what we officially and publicly teach. The Gospel texts leading up to Advent and for the Advent season help us to remember this. These texts focus on a profound mystery: Christ came to us from beyond time (from the realm of God) and, in an undisclosed form. will return to us from beyond history!

The New Testament, in almost every book, stresses that in some way the same crucified, but risen, Lord Jesus will return in glory at the end of history (whenever and whatever that is)! Our problem is this: though the general teaching is crystal clear, the specifics are not at all clear! This fact has prompted throughout Christian history many fantastic, even preposterous, ideas and movements. Though we Presbyterians (with all other central Christian traditions) clearly and consistently assert that ”Jesus will come again in glory”, we refuse to speculate about the specifics.

Throughout the Christian era some movements have ignored the clear statements of Jesus that it is not for us to know the times that God the Father has set. Usually each century has produced one or more movements overly fascinated with the details of the end of history. Sometimes the results of these speculations have been relatively benign, sometimes tragic. Currently there is much speculation stemming from some secular scholars based on the writings of Nostradamus. Others focus on the Maya calendar as setting the end-time. Taken together 2012 seems to be the current consensus of opinion. Without simply discounting these ideas nor ignoring the concerns of global warming, the central Christian tradition finds the meaning of “Christ’s Second Coming” more hopeful than dire. The Study Catechism expresses that meaning this way: “evil in all of its forms will be utterly eradicated, past history will be redeemed, and all the things that ever were will be made new.”

Additionally, all of the New Testament writers also stress both the future and the present dimensions of this “Second Coming”. If we are to be faithful to the biblical and apostolic witness, we cannot overlook either dimension. As with all of the other central biblical teachings, the first thing we stress is mystery, that is: quoting Paul “now (in history) we know only in part, later (in eternity) we will know fully, even as we are known (in fullness by God)”.

What Reformed Christians emphasize is: 1) the full reality that the same Jesus who was resurrected will in some way return to claim us as his own, 2) that time is set and known only by God the Father, and 3) before that time, we actively proclaim the Gospel of God’s love, engage in acts of love and mercy, and use whatever personal gifts we have for the glory of God! We believe that it is better to fill the “time before the End” with meaningful humane activity than with speculative flights of fantasy!

Jim

Greeters - Nancy and Virginia Sowers

Advent family - George and Debbie Wharton

Ushers - Bob and Audrey Law; Gordon and Priscilla Hallberg

Fellowship - The Ford family

Sound Technician - Aaron Hamlett

This Week’s Birthdays

Today - Kathy Irvin

Thursday - Jerica Garcia

Friday - Mike Heatwole, Justin Reeve, Mildred Rumpf

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Robinson, Jonell Friend, Bob Swanson, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Annabelle Yocky, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Eden Murphy, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request).

God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

This week’s prayer family: Bob and Audrey Law.

This week’s prayer church: First Presbyterian Church of Wichita, KS.

Sunday, November 29 - 1st Sunday of Advent

Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Monday, November 30

Praise Team @ 7:00 pm

Wednesday, December 2

Dinner @ 6:00 pm, Christmas Caroling @ 6:30 pm, Worship Committee @ 8:30 pm

Thursday, December 3

Christian Ed @ 6:00 pm

Saturday , December 5

Children’s Choir practice @ 10:00 am, Birthday Party for Jesus @ 10:30 am

Sunday, December 6 - 2nd Sunday of Advent

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Service for the Lord’s Day

Christ the King Sunday

November 22, 2009_____ ___ _ __ 10:45 AM

All power in heaven and earth is given to Jesus Christ by Almighty God, who raised Christ from the dead and set him above all rule and authority, all power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. God has put all things under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and has made Christ Head of the Church, which is his body.

THE GATHERING

Prelude

Welcome and Concerns of the Church Leader

Introit "He Has Made Me Glad" #2270 Chancel Choir

Call to Worship

Pastor: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and forever. Amen

Leader: Lord, remember David your anointed king, and recall the hardships he endures

People: How he vowed to bring the ark and set it up in your house of prayer.

Leader: For your servant David’s sake, do not turn away from the face of your anointed.

People: Remember your oath that a Son of David will sit upon your throne forever

Leader: For the Lord has chosen Jerusalem and desired it for a holy habitation.

People: There those who worship will be clothed in salvation, and the faithful people will rejoice and sing.

*Hymn of Praise “Crown Him with Many Crowns” No. 151

*Prayer of Approach Leader

Response "Thank you, Amen" #2081 Chancel Choir

*Confession and Pardon

*Call to Confession Pastor

*Confession of Sin (Unison) Leader

God of Covenant promise, you anointed Jesus of Nazareth as Christ and Lord of all. Yet we confess we are slow to acknowledge his sovereign rule. We have shown allegiance to the powers of this world, and have failed to be governed by our Lord’s justice and love.

In your mercy, forgive us. By your Spirit help is to acknowledge in word and deed the rightful reign of Jesus, that we may abundantly display in our manner of life the life-changing wonder of his love and justice, declaring with joyous wonder the dazzling glory of his majesty, and the liberating freedom of his truth.

*Declaration of Pardon and God’s Claim on Us Pastor

*Gloria Patri “Glory Be to the Father” No. 579

THE WORD

Prayer for Illumination Leader

God of mercy, you promised never to break your covenant with us. Amid all the

changing words of our generation, speak your eternal Word that does not change.

Then may we respond to your gracious promises with faithful and obedient lives;

through our Lord Jesus Christ.

First Reading 2 Samuel 23:1-7 Pg. 292

Anthem "You Are the Christ" Chancel Choir

Children’s Sermon Pat Sanders

Gospel Reading John 18:33-37 Pg. 107

Sermon “The King of Truth” James O Pitts, III

Invitation to Discipleship

*Hymn of Meditation “Rejoice, the Lord Is King” No. 155

Prayers of the People

THE EUCHARIST

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

Invitation to the Lord’s Table We invite to this table all Christians from any tradition

Great Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer

The Dialogue:

Pastor: The Lord be with you.

People: And also with you.

Pastor: Lift up your hearts.

People: We lift them up to the Lord.

Pastor: Let us give thanks to our the Lord our God.

People: It is right to give thanks and praise.

Breaking of the Bread

Song of Gathering "Let Us Break Bread Together" No. 513

Communion of the People

Prayer after Communion

SENDING

*Charge

*Blessing

*Hymn of Dedication “Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun” No. 423

Postlude

*All those who wish may stand

Greeters - Rodney & Lloydeen Wolfe

Lay Reader - Yvonne Battles

Ushers - Sandra, Kirsten & Jayson Neff, Darlene and Madelyn Mathias

Fellowship - Fellowship Committee

This Week’s Birthdays This Week’s Anniversaries

Wednesday - Jessa York John & Julie Ford

Thursday - Gary Shrader 11/24/1976

Saturday - John Frazier Bob & Melinda Hitz

11/26/1982

Bob & Audrey Law

11/27/1960

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Robinson, Jonell Friend, Bob Swanson, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Annabelle Yocky, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Eden Murphy, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request).

God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

This week’s prayer family: Bob and Audrey Law.

This week’s prayer church: First Presbyterian Church of Wichita, KS.

Preparing for Advent

Following today’s worship service, volunteers are needed to participate in decorating our church for Advent. The Fellowship Committee will be

serving Chili and Chicken Soup for lunch.

Community Thanksgiving Service Tuesday, Nov. 24.

The Word of Life Church will host this year’s Community Thanksgiving Service.

The Worship Service will begin at 7:00 pmWord of Life Church is located at

3004 North 3rd.

We are now taking orders for Poinsettias to be placed in the Sanctuary during the Advent season in memory or honor of your loved ones.

This year’s poinsettias will be $25.00 for an 8” double plant.

If you'd like to order a poinsettia, please call the office with your request.

“Prepare the Way of the Lord”

Our Advent devotion booklet are available in the atrium. Each day’s entry includes a short reflection and prayer and a suggested journal exercise, so users can create a personal record of prayers and thoughts. Don’t worry about your skills as a writer or artist – it is simply an invitation to reflect in your own way. Advent is a time to open ourselves to the love of God in Christ in a new way, as we ponder the traditional themes of the season: expectation, hope, preparation and longing.

Operation Christmas Child

Are you interested in helping bring the Gospel to millions of children this year?

The Family Bookhouse us needing volunteers to help with

Operation Christmas Child during Collection Week.

Please contact Joan Lobmeyer at 620-272-9142 to see what hours work best and what work is needed.

2010 Church Directory

Work has begun on updating the 2010 Church Directory.

Please contact the office if there has been any change in your information from last year. Email address cannot be published without your approval, if you wish for your email address to appear in the directory please submit your email address to the office. Thank you.

Across the Pastor’s Desk

Invitation to Holy Communion in PC (USA)

After my first Communion Service here, a very loyal member complained mildly, “I didn’t like inviting to Communion ‘those who are baptized’!” Then she quickly added a very good question: “Why limit communion to the baptized?” Frankly I appreciated both the mild complaint and its follow-up question. After a brief answer, I promised to think through our conversation and to write out a more complete answer. Then I asked, “Would it sound better to you to say: ‘We invite to this Table Christians from any tradition’?” “Oh yes”, came back the quick reply, “I like that” That puzzled me for two reasons. First because that is the meaning of “open communion” - an invitation to communion that is not limited to one particular Christian group. In the second place I saw no difference (other than the phrasing) between the two statements. But apparently some others do. Somehow saying “baptized” rather than “Christian” felt somewhat problematic. Recently this same question arose again and was vigorously discussed in one of our women’s groups. Hence this article.

Historically, from the start, only “the baptized” (i.e. “those who professed Christ as Lord”) received communion. Inquirers or the curious were welcomed for the opening prayers, hymns, psalms, readings, and sermon. Thereafter a deacon would dismiss those who weren’t professing Christians (i.e. who weren’t “among the baptized”) Christian converts would remain catechumens (those learning to live out the faith) for up to three years before their baptism and first communion. For the first 350 years, Christian worship was private; only after the time of Constantine, when Christianity became a legal religion, can we speak of public worship. Thus the question of the non-baptized attending a Eucharistic service simply did not come up until after Constantine!

“But by what logic do we limit an invitation to the Lord’s Table at all? Since Jesus was so openly welcoming to all comers, we should be equally welcoming at the Eucharistic Table?” This is a modern position that would have sounded strange to many generations of Christians. Our modern questions confuses the function of the meals of the historic Christ with the function of the sacramental meal. The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper corresponds, not to the many meals recorded in the Gospels, but to the Passover meal (the Last Supper) the night before Jesus was crucified.

The basic logic flows directly from the character of the Last Supper which was limited strictly to Jesus’ followers and somewhat indirectly from Paul’s teaching that “whoever shall eat this bread and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord”. So what is eating and drinking unworthily? In its original context Paul was referring to gluttony, drunkenness, and favoritism that some Corinthians practiced at their Eucharistic celebrations. This he denounced roundly. Later generations also saw in this passage other expressions of “unworthy eating and drinking”. A few such practices include: treating the sacrament as a magic potion, harboring hatred toward others, repudiating the faith inwardly but making an outward pretense , having almost no idea of the significance of the sacrament, or simply making a show of piety to impress others.

Perhaps we can get at this issue by focusing on “What does it mean for any of us to receive Holy Communion?” First it is a profession of faith in Jesus, the Christ, as Lord (and Savior) of all human beings who have ever lived, now live, or shall live hereafter. Essentially the Lord’s Supper builds on our baptismal practice, profession, and faith. We understand the Sacrament of Baptism as the foundational recognition of Christian commitment. The Eucharist is intended as a weekly re-affirmation and extension/expansion of the meaning of Christian baptism.

One pastor explained, “We do not want anyone unwittingly or unknowingly to profess in behavior a faith that he or she would not be willing to affirm by mouth publicly.” Let us assume that a Jew, a Buddhist, or a non-professing secularist attended a Eucharistic celebration and wished to show great respect (but without agreeing with the Christological and Trinitarian teachings and emphases that are part and parcel of the service). We value their respect and wish to return it. So we don’t want to invite them to do something in action that in good conscience they could not and would not do verbally and consciously.

We readily admit that all denominations of Christians, over the centuries, in one way or another, have sometimes acted unrealistically exclusivistic, moralistic, haughty, and/or arrogant. We denounce that as readily as we strive not to appear to be casual or indifferent to the

significance of the Lord’s Supper. Currently, in concurrence with most Christians through the ages, we say in our directory for worship: “the invitation to the Lord’s Table is extended to all who have been baptized...” and “all the baptized faithful are to be welcomed to the Table” This is a part (and has been since the Reformation) of our core faith. Presbyterian and Reformed Christians have generally practiced “open Communion”; that is inviting to communion all practicing Christians, who are professing Christians! Perhaps there are a few such “professing Christians” who for whatever reason were not baptized! Yet it is difficult to imagine how there could be many such persons. All Christians who profess the central, orthodox faith practice baptism as the mode of entrance into church membership, just as we do. Hence we invite to our Table all disciples of the Christ who have publicly professed their faith and responsibly identified themselves with the historic, central Christian faith in some specific Christian Church. We prefer to stress who is to receive communion than to stress who is not to receive!

Jim

Christ the King Sunday, November 22

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday school @ 9:30 am,

Worship w/Communion @ 10:45 am,

Hanging of the Greens, Chili and Soup dinner

Monday, November 23

Session @ 6:30 pm

Tuesday, November 24

Community Thanksgiving Service @ 7:00 pm

Word of Life Church 3004 North 3rd

Wednesday, November 25

No evening activities

Thanksgiving Day - Thursday, November 26

Office Closed

Friday, November 27

Off ice Closed

Sunday, November 29 - 1st Sunday of Advent

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Service for the Lord’s Day

Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

November 15, 2009____ ___ _ __ __ 10:45 AM

GATHERING

Prelude

Welcome and Concerns of the Church Leader

Statement from Stewardship Doug Heatwole

Introit "He Has Made Me Glad” (2270) Chancel Choir

Call to Worship

Pastor: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Leader: The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,

People: The world, and those who live in it.

Leader: Therefore my brothers, I implore you by God’s mercy, to offer your very selves to God:

People: A living sacrifice, dedicated and fit for his acceptance, the worship offered by mind and heart.

Leader: If anyone has the goods of this world, and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him.

People: How does the love of God abide in him?

Leader: Be generous when you worship the Lord, and do not stint the first fruits of your hands.

*Hymn of Praise “Let All Things Now Living” No. 554

*Prayer of Approach Leader

Response “Thank you, Amen” (2081) Chancel Choir

*Confession and Pardon and God’s Claim on Us

Invitation to Confession Pastor

*Confession of Sin (Unison) Leader

Compassionate God, we need the renewal of your forgiving grace. We fail to live simply in dependence upon you. We try to provide for ourselves, as if there were blessings apart from you. We clutch our possessions in anxiety, as if they, not you, give us value. We seek human recognition and honor rather than humbling ourselves to serve your glory. Though you give us all we need, we resist giving to others.

Free us, O God, from our sins and the selfishness which ensnares us. Touch our hearts again with your gracious love in Jesus Christ, who though he was rich became poor for our sakes, that through his poverty we might become rich.

*Declaration of Pardon

*Gloria Patri “Glory Be to the Father” No. 579

THE WORD

Prayer for Illumination Leader

O Lord, our God, your word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.

Give us grace to receive your truth in faith and love, that we may be obedient to your will and live always for your glory; through Jesus Christ our Savior.

First Reading 1 Kings 17:8-16 Pg. 316

Anthem “Legacy of Service” Chancel Choir

Children’s Sermon Pat Sanders

Gospel Reading Mark 12:38-44 Pg. 47

Sermon James O Pitts, III

Invitation to Discipleship

*Hymn of Meditation “Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me” No. 366

Prayers of the People

Response “Change My Heart, O God” (2152)

Change my heart, O God, make it ever true.

Change my heart, O God, may I be like You.

You are the Potter, I am the clay.

Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

OUR RESPONSE TO GOD

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

*Prayer of Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer

*Passing of Christ’s Peace

Pastor: Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us forgive one another.

The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all

People: And also with you.

SENDING

*Charge

*Blessing

*Hymn of Dedication “Now Thank We All Our God” No. 555

Postlude

*All those who wish may stand

Greeters - Bob and Audrey Law

Lay Reader - Brevin Irvin

Ushers - Kyle Ochampaugh and Zack McVey

Fellowship - Stewardship dinner

Sound Technician - Aaron Hamlett

This Week’s Birthdays This Week’s Anniversaries

Today - Anne Jones George and Debbie Wharton

Tuesday - Mary Buchele 11/20/1977

Wednesday - Eva Lewis

Friday - Nancy Sowers

Saturday - Jayson Neff

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Faye Hunt, Abbey Bannister, Blanche Larson, Dale Meadors, Patsy Roth, Dorothea Kline, Larry Zant, Ken Golay, Rolland Mathias, Jim Wharton, Tom Meschke, Laurie Bock, Debbie Harden, Gladys Cripe, Linda Friesner, Tanya Pyle, Pam Smith, Hazel Skinner, Gerri McKernam, Blanche Wolfe, Ethel Kern, Eunice and Ralph Cooper, Charlie Robinson, Jonell Friend, Bob Swanson, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Annabelle Yocky, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Eden Murphy, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request).

God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

This week’s prayer family: Jeff and Pat Whitham.

This week’s prayer church: Southwest Presbyterian Church of Wichita, KS.

Community Thanksgiving Service

Tuesday, November 24.

The Word of Life Church will host this year’s Community Thanksgiving Service.

The Worship Service will begin at 7:00 pm

Word of Life Church is located at 3004 North 3rd.

Operation Christmas Child

Are you interested in helping bring the Gospel to millions of children this year?

The Family Bookhouse us needing volunteers to help with

Operation Christmas Child during Collection Week.

Please contact Joan Lobmeyer at 620-272-9142 to see what hours work best

and what work is needed.

2010 Church Directory

Work has begun on updating the 2010 Church Directory.

Please contact the office if there has been any change

in your information from last year.

Email address cannot be published without your approval, if you wish for your email address to appear in the directory please submit your email address to the office. Thank you.

Emmaus House needs our help!

With Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching, the Emmaus House needs donations of the following food items:

for Thanksgiving:

Turkey/Chicken; Corn; Green Beans; Cranberry or Fruit (canned); Mashed Potatoes, Evaporated Milk; Canned Pumpkin; Soup; Bread; Stuffing.

for Christmas: Ham/Chicken; Corn; Beans (Green & Baked); Soup; Mashed or Sliced Potatoes; Cake or Cookie Mix; Bread; Nuts; Mac ‘n’ Cheese; Fruit.

The food baskets for Thanksgiving will be distributed on November 24, 2009. The food baskets for Christmas will go out on December 22, 2009 from 9:30-11:30 am and again from 1:00 to 6:00 pm on those days.

They estimate approximately 250 food boxes will be going out to families in need. Please bring in your donated items for Thanksgiving by November 20th and for Christmas by December 18th.

Mission and Outreach Committee will begin selling ‘Turkey Dinner’ coupons to help provide meals, as an easier way for those who wish to give cash donations.

“We Are the Church” Out of date photos

Kids grow up and families change and we’d like to update these

pictures. We will have photographers and a “booth” set up in the atrium.

We are now taking orders for Poinsettias to be placed in the

Sanctuary during the Advent season in memory or honor of your loved ones.

This year’s poinsettias will be $25.00 for an 8” double plant.

If you'd like to order a poinsettia, please call the office with your request.

Across the Pastor’s Desk

Stewardship as a Spiritual Discipline

Why in church circles do we talk about “Stewardship” rather than simply about “fund-raising”, like we do in any other area of society? In fact in church we do speak of “fund-raising” and will likely continue. However, our major focus does not fall on “fund-raising” per se; it falls on expressing a life of commitment to God’s purposes in history and of responsibility toward God’s creation. These are prominent themes within society as well, usually motivated by an urgent sense of protecting ourselves and future generations by protecting the earth. While we Christians share this concern, our major thrust in “Stewardship” is a profound realization that a basic part of responsibility to God is “to till the Garden (of Eden) and to keep it.” A current Presbyterian statement expresses this idea clearly.

“Caring for Creation and Life. God calls the Church in the power of the Holy Spirit to participate in God’s work of creation and preservation. God has given humankind awesome power and perilous responsibility to rule and tame the earth, to sustain and reshape it, to replenish and renew.” (Directory for Worship, W-7.5003)

Our Reformed faith has especially emphasized “thankfulness for our creation and redemption” as a basic spiritual attitude and basic ethical principle. This is where “giving” enters the picture. From time immemorial humans have presented gifts or offerings to the deities, sometimes to placate a god’s wrath; sometimes to ensure a god’s goodwill. We seek to do neither because “God can’t be bribed”, and already, in sending the Son, God has demonstrated the depths of his goodwill. Yet we do want to express our thankfulness. Being thankful is our best motive for giving - to our congregation, to the United Way, to hurting individuals, to hunger programs, or to any other legitimate humane cause. Our Directory for Worship underscores this: “Giving has always been a mark of Christian commitment and discipleship. The ways in which a believer uses God’s gifts of material goods, personal abilities, and time should reflect a faithful response to God’s self-giving in Jesus Christ and Christ’s call to minister to and share with others in the world. Tithing is a primary expression of the Christian discipline of stewardship.” (W-5.504)

The upshot of all of this is simply that in the whole of our lives we seek to develop stewardship as a lifestyle, rather than as an annual ritual. Our Directory similarly points to the eventual result of giving of ourselves regularly: “Those who follow the discipline of Christian stewardship will find themselves called to lives of simplicity, generosity, honesty, hospitality, compassion, receptivity, and concern for the earth and God’s creatures.” (W-5.5005) This, then, is the Reformed goal. The Apostle Paul said it well: “I seek not what is yours, but you.” (2 Cor 12:14) Herein lies the paradox: as we

develop lives as God’s stewards, fund-raising takes care of itself; as we pledge and set aside a reasonable proportion of our time, our talents, and our treasure, we move toward thankful stewardship, as a lifestyle.

Jim

FOR YOUR REFRIGERATOR or BULLETIN BOARD

Y’ all Come Wednesday Nights**

Nov. 18^th

6:00 p.m. Potluck Dinner, 6:30 Celebration Worship

Coming up for Youth & Adults

Nov. 25 Thanksgiving Break ~ No Youth or Adult Groups

Dec. 2

Caroling with the Choir

Dec. 9

Celebrate Kids Club – rehearsal for Christmas Program or ??

PTP & Sr, HI – Angel Tree shopping

Adults: Christianity, Cults & the Occult, in the Library, led by Linda Adams

Dec. 16 Potluck Dinner, followed by worship led by the children: “Charlie and the Cherub Cheerleaders”

**This is the perfect opportunity to invite a friend, new neighbor

or co-worker to an informal activity at our church!

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITIES

Sunday, November 15

Bell Choir @ 9:30 am, Sunday school @ 9:30 am, Worship @ 10:45 am

Stewardship dinner

Monday, November 16

Praise Team @ 7:00 pm

Tuesday, November 17

Staff Meeting @ 9:00 am

Wednesday, November 18

Dinner @ 6:00 pm, Celebration Worship @ 6:30 pm, Choir @ 7:30 pm

Thursday, November 19

Deacons @ 6:30 pm

Christ the King Sunday, November 22

Bell Choir @ 8:30 am, Sunday School @ 9:30 am, Worship w/Communion @ 10:00 am

Hanging of the Greens, Chili and Soup dinner

Service for the Lord’s Day

Thirty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time

Ordination and Installation

November 8, 2009_____ ___ _ __ 10:45 AM

Within the community of the church, some are called to particular service as Deacons,

elders, and as ministers of the Word and Sacrament. Ordination is Christ’s gift to the church, assuring that his ministry continues among us, providing ministries of caring and compassion in the world, ordering the governance of the church, and preaching the Word and administering the sacraments.

~ ~ ~ Book of Common Worship

GATHERING

Prelude

Welcome and Concerns of the Church Leader

Introit "He Has Made Me Glad” (2270) Chancel Choir

Presentation of Candidate

Call to Worship

Pastor: Let us worship God. Proclaim with me the greatness of the Lord.

People: Let us exalt the name of the Lord together.

Leader: Come, let us sing to the Lord.

People: Let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.

*Hymn of Praise “Rejoice, the Lord Is King” No. 155

*Prayer of Approach Leader

Response “Thank you, Amen” (2081) Chancel Choir

*Confession and Pardon

*Call to Confession Pastor

*Confession of Sin (Unison) Leader

Mighty and merciful God, you have called us to be your people and claimed us for the service of Jesus Christ. We confess that we have not lived up to your calling. We have been timid and frightened disciples, forgetful of your powerful presence and the strength of your Spirit among us.

O God, forgive our foolish and sinful ways. As you have chosen us and claimed us in our baptism, strengthen us anew to choose Christ’s way in this world. Give us your Holy Spirit that each one in ministry may be provided with all the gifts of grace needed to fulfill our common calling; through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savoir.

*Declaration of Pardon and God’s Claim on Us Pastor

*Gloria Patri “Glory Be to the Father” No. 579

Passing of Christ’s Peace

Pastor: Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us forgive one another.

The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all

People: And also with you.

THE WORD

Prayer for Illumination Leader

Overwhelm us with your Spirit, O God, that the words we hear will speak to our hearts as your Word, made known to us in Jesus Christ our Lord.

First Reading Numbers 11:16-17 Pg. 127

Psalms 133 (Unison) Leader

Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down upon the beard, running upon the beard of Aaron, running down the collar of his robes! It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion!

For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life for evermore.

Anthem “Thank you for the Valleys” Janet Major

Children’s Sermon Pat Sanders

Second Reading Philippians 2:1-11 Pg. 185

Gospel Reading Mark 10:35-45 Pg. 44

Sermon Dr. James O. Pitts, III

Invitation to Discipleship

*Hymn of Meditation “Here I Am, Lord” No. 525

Statement on Installation

*Affirmation of Faith

With the whole church, let us confess our faith.

Pastor: Do you believe in God the Father?

People: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.

Pastor: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

People: I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, Our Lord, who was conceived by

the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead; On the third day he rose again ; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.

Pastor: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit?

People: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Constitutional Questions

Ordination of Elder-elect Steven Buchele

Charge to Elder and Welcome

Prayers of the People

Response “Change My Heart, O God” (2152)

Change my heart, O God, make it ever true.

Change my heart, O God, may I be like You.

You are the Potter, I am the clay.

Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

OUR RESPONSE TO GOD

Stewardship Moment Doug Heatwole

Offertory

*Doxology No. 592

*Prayer of Thanksgiving and Lord’s Prayer

SENDING

*Charge

*Blessing

*Hymn of Dedication “O Jesus, I Have Promised” No. 388

Postlude

*All those who wish may stand

Flowers in the sanctuary last week and this week

are given in loving memory of Don Walker

by Tom and Lorene Walker

WORSHIP ASSISTANTS FOR SUNDAY This Week’s Birthdays

November 8, 2009 Friday - Jan Collins

Greeters - Adah Jenkins Saturday - Ron Major

Lay Leader - Joy Anstaett

Ushers - Adah Jenkins, Ellen and Wayne Lynn, Gary Friesner

Fellowship - Jana Burnside and Ellen Lynn

Sound Board - Aaron Hamlett

Church Family and Friends in Need of Special Prayers:

Robbin Ward, Abbey Bannister, Blanche Larson, Dale Meadors, Patsy Roth, Dorothea Kline, Larry Zant, Ken Golay, Rolland Mathias, Jim Wharton, Tom Meschke, Laurie Bock, Debbie Harden, Gladys Cripe, Linda Friesner, Tanya Pyle, Pam Smith, Hazel Skinner, Gerri McKernam, Blanche Wolfe, Ethel Kern, Eunice and Ralph Cooper, Charlie Robinson, Jonell Friend, Bob Swanson, Don Davis, Suzan Tarwater, Annabelle Yocky, Marisha Cooper, Natalie Hendrickson, Eden Murphy, Jim Hamlett, Dave Sweley, John Hoxie, Ruth Oliver, Belinda Fouse.

(Please call the church with your personal prayer request).

God Bless All Of You.

The following families have recently lost loved ones.

Please pray for: Debbie and George Wharton on the passing of Debbie’s mother Jackie Cole, Joe York and family on the passing of his brother George, Bob Halloran on the passing of his brother Randy, Larry and Pat Sanders and family on the passing of his brother Steven, Ron and Janet Major and family on the passing of his sister Connie German.