Order of Worship August 6, 2023
UJCC Sunday Worship Service
August 6, 2023 * 10th Sunday After Pentecost
“If you aren’t in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?” -T.S. Eliot
We Gather Together
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https://www.facebook.com/ujccclovis/videos/625152319682813/
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 - Have Thine Own Way Lord
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 songs of centering, we intentionally try to lay aside our busy lives, worries, and distractions in order to focus on God. For if we have too much noise in our minds, this can leave little room for God. Please feel free to sit quietly in meditation, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, sing along, or use your body as you are able.
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.
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!
Holy Communion We believe that Jesus Christ was born as a human being, lived among us, and died to redeem creation from all sin past, present, and future. As a reminder of Jesus' great love for us, we continue to practice the tradition of breaking bread and wine that Jesus started with the disciples. At UJCC, all are welcome. So, if you would like to receive the gift of life that Jesus offers, feel free to approach the front as the ushers call you and then return to your seat. You are welcome to eat the bread and drink the juice at your pace. You can also meditate or pray as necessary during this time. We will have some responses that you can read on the projectors if you would like to participate.
Scripture Reading In Japanese Some Japanese and Japanese Americans attend our church. As a result, we like to extend our love and hospitality to them by reading the Scripture text for the sermon in Japanese once a month. However, we understand that many people may not speak Japanese. So, feel free to appreciate the beauty of the Japanese language and we will read the text again in English shortly after.
Message - The Origin Of Solomon's Wisdom
We believe God still speaks to us today through the Bible, people, and many other sources as well. As a result, we listen to Jonah Wong during this time and try to discern what God is trying to tell us through his 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 - As The Deer
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 - I Need Thee Every Hour
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!
Postlude - 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.