Order of Worship for Sunday, January 7th 2024

Prelude

Welcome

Call to Worship

Leader: The Magi waited and watched, knowing something wondrous would be happening.
People: We waited for the birth of Jesus; now something wondrous is about to take root.

Leader: The darkness that invaded all lives was banished by the light of that star.
People: The darkness what surrounds us is gone!

Leader: Let us celebrate the bright shining of God's love in our lives.
People: Let us become those who will bring the light of God's love to others. AMEN.

Opening Hymn

We Three Kings of Orient Are UMH 254

Prayer of Confession

Lord of living light, we hear the story of the Magi and tie it together with our warm Christmas celebration. It feels comfortable to us. Break those bonds of comfort and help us to realize the risk of witness and discipleship for those who follow your light. Shine brightly in us and through us. Forgive the blindness we so often offer to you. Give us vision of what you would have us be and do in the Light of Your Love. AMEN.

Words of Assurance

Light has come to you. Your light has come and it has erased the darkness. Now we can walk and work in the light. You are loved by God and called to God's service. AMEN.

Passing of the Peace

First Reading:

Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

Second Reading:

Matthew 2:1-12

Sermon:

Epiphany of the Lord by Kristine Adams

Hymn of Response

Hail to the Lord’s Anointed UMH 203

Tithes and Offerings

Give Now

Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95

Offertory Prayer

God of this day and all days! We can only imagine the darkness of the world into which you sent your son—a world that believed that salvation rested on our ability to follow the rules. Jesus came to bring light into that darkness and into our darkness. As we bring our tithes and offering to you this day, transform them into light for the hungry, for the hopeless, for the forgotten, and for the oppressed. We will share his light in us! In Christ, we pray. Amen.

Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer

Announcements

Closing Hymn

Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee UMH 89

Benediction

Said Each Week as A Communal Prayer:
Send to us all the people who feel unwanted and unloved in other places, and if they can't come to us, send us to them.

Postlude

Featured Upcoming Events:

Lunch and Learn with Pastor Kevin

on 6/4/2025 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

Join us for a weekly Bible study and lunch with Pastor Kevin on Wednesdays at 12:30pm. Bring your lunch and come ready to dive deeper into the Sunday morning scripture. This is a great opportunity to discuss and learn more about the word of God in a small group setting with the guidance of our pastor. See you there!

Learn More

Monthly Food Distribution at Trinity House

on 6/23/2025 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Volunteers are needed to help unload food, divide bulk produce, and prepare it for distribution to the residents. This month, we will serve approximately 65 people, providing them with essential canned goods and fresh produce.Whether you can lift heavy objects or simply offer a friendly smile, your assistance is invaluable. This is a great opportunity to experience the joy of serving and make a tangible impact on the lives of those in need.