Order of Worship August 20, 2023
UJCC Sunday Worship Service
August 20, 2023 * 12th Sunday After Pentecost * Rally Sunday
“I recited the Our Father (Lord’s Prayer) in Greek every day before work, and I repeated it very often in the vineyard. Since that time I have made a practice of saying it through once each morning with absolute attention. If during the recitation my attention wanders or goes to sleep, in the minutest degree, I begin again until I have once succeeded in going through it with absolutely pure attention. Sometimes it comes about that I say it again out of sheer pleasure, but I only do it if I really feel the impulse. The effect of this practice is extraordinary and surprises me every time, for, although I experience it each day, it exceeds my expectation at each repetition.” — Simone Weil
We Gather Togethe
Trouble viewing stream? Use this link:
https://www.facebook.com/ujccclovis/videos/1656990328045536/
You are invited to the spiritual practice of returning thanks to God. You can try our online giving option HERE. Thank you and peace be with you!
Gathering Music
We recognize that some of you may have had a crazy week and need some space or quiet time. So, 5-10 minutes prior to the service, we will play some music that you can listen to while you meditate
Words of Welcome
During this time, our worship leader will offer a greeting, introduce special guests, or provide important information for the service. Ultimately, we want to show how much we appreciate you joining us today despite your busy schedule.
Greeting One Another
This may merely seem like a time to greet one another. However, it also serves as a reminder of the peace that we have with God and the peace that we have with each other due to Jesus’ sacrifice. Please take this time to meet someone new!
Song of Centering - Sweet Hour of Prayer
In the same way that we get ready for a date, it is important for us to get ready to hear God’s Word. So, during the song of centering, we try to lay aside our busy lives, worries, and distractions in order to focus on God. Please feel free to meditate, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, or sing along.
Opening Prayer
We believe that prayer changes things. When we pray, God shows up and does amazing things. Feel free to join us in the opening prayer by reading the words presented on the screen.
Presentation of the 3rd Grade Bibles
We greatly value the Bible. It is just as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. We like to bless our 3rd graders with their very own Bible that they can read at any time.
Children's Time
At UJCC, we value young families and children. So, whenever we have family worship, we try to make short, fun, educational videos or skits in order to be more inclusive of our younger audience. Feel free to enjoy this material with your kids and talk about it later too!
Blessing Sunday School Teachers & Students
As we start a new school year, we like to bless all of our students and teachers so that they can thrive and get a great start to the school year.
Message - Our Father, Who Art In Heaven, Hallowed Be Thy Name
We believe God still speaks to us today through the Bible, people, and many other sources as well. We will listen to Rev. Akiko during this time and try to discern what God is trying to tell us through her message. Feel free to listen, take notes, or meditate on something that stuck out to you. The Bible passage will be projected for you to read.
Song of Reflection - Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart
It is our responsibility to respond to God’s message. So, the song after the sermon gives us a little more time to digest God’s message and think about how we can respond appropriately. So, feel free to meditate on the message, pray, or simply enjoy the music.
Joys & Concerns
We believe God hears and answers our prayers. Not only that, but we believe in praying together so that we can encourage and support those going through difficult times, or celebrate our many blessings. For we are all God’s family. When one of us suffers, we all suffer. When one of us rejoices, we all rejoice. You are not alone. At this time, Rev. Akiko will lead us in the Lord’s prayer. You can follow along with the words on the slideshow.
Announcements
The announcements provide opportunities for us to put our faith into action throughout the week. Please try to see if anything interests you or challenge yourself to try something new. Volunteering is a great way to bless others, but we are often blessed ourselves in the process. You can check all the current announcements at www.ujcclife.com/events
Song of Sending Forth - Together We Serve
The song of sending forth prepares our hearts to go back out into the world. You can use this song as a final opportunity to decide how to respond to the message, pray for God’s guidance, sing along, or simply enjoy the music.
Final Blessing
This is a short prayer said in order to bless everyone as we get ready to go back out into the world. Feel free to close your eyes and receive the blessing so that you may be strengthened and encouraged!
Ending Song - Go Now In Peace
This is the final ending song for the worship service. Once the song is finished, feel free to talk to someone new, attend our small group, or make your way safely back home.