Order of Worship for Sunday, June 22nd 2025

Prelude

Welcome

Call to Worship

Leader: Come, people of God, let us gather around the Word.
People: Not as spectators, but as seekers of truth and grace.

Leader: The Bible is not a weapon to wield or a box to store.
People: It is a sacred conversation we are invited to join.

Leader: The Scriptures are not relics of the past, but breath from the living God.
People: We come to be taught, challenged, and shaped for every good work.

Opening Hymn

Come, Holy Ghost, Our Hearts Inspire UMH 603

Why This Song:
We begin our worship by asking the Holy Spirit to inspire our hearts and illumine the Word. As we prepare to hear Scripture, we sing this prayer that God would make the pages come alive and form us in truth and grace.

Prayer of Confession

Gracious Lord, Your Word calls us into community, compassion, and courage, but we confess that we often use it to protect ourselves instead of open ourselves. We argue over the letter of the law, while missing the heart of love. We prefer certainty to mystery, and safety to faith. Forgive us when we read without listening, and speak without understanding. 

Let your Spirit speak anew in our hearts today. In this silence, we offer our personal confessions to you.

(Silent Prayer)

Through Christ, our Living Word, Amen.

Words of Assurance

Leader: The Living Word speaks peace to our weary hearts. In Jesus Christ, you are forgiven and made whole.
People: Praise be to God, whose mercy is greater than our mistakes.

Passing of the Peace

First Reading:

2 Timothy 3:10-17

Sermon:

What Is Our Biblical Story? by Pastor Kevin Rutledge

Hymn of Response

Thy Word UMH 601

Why This Song:
In response to God's Word spoken and proclaimed, we sing our trust and commitment. “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet” reminds us that Scripture guides us—not just with answers, but with presence on the journey.

Tithes and Offerings

Offertory Response

Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95

Offertory Prayer

Lord, You formed us through your Word and breathed your Spirit into our hearts. Now, we give back to you with open hands and willing hearts. Let our gifts join in the work of your kingdom— proclaiming justice, spreading mercy, and living love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer

Announcements

Closing Hymn

Wonderful Words of Life UMH 600

Why This Song:
We go forth singing of the beauty and life found in God’s Word. As we leave this place, may these “wonderful words of life” continue to echo in our hearts and shape our steps.

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


Special Insert

How to Read Scripture in a Wesleyan Way

“Read with the Spirit, listen with your whole self, and respond with your life.”

This guide reflects how John Wesley taught people to engage Scripture—not just for knowledge, but for transformation.

1. Set Aside Sacred Time

Choose a quiet moment—morning or evening—when you can focus. Make it a habit.

2. Pray for Illumination

Begin by asking God to speak through the reading.
“Lord, open my heart and mind by the power of your Spirit.”

3. Read Slowly and Carefully

Read a short passage (a chapter or even a few verses). Don’t rush. Let the words settle. If you are using a devotional with accompanying reflections. Hold off on reading the devotional material until after going through this process.

4. Reflect with the Quadrilateral

  • Scripture: What is the plain meaning of the text in context?
  • Tradition: How has the Church understood this passage?
  • Reason: What seems wise, good, and coherent?
  • Experience: How does this speak to your life, or to the world today?

5. Ask Transformational Questions

  • What does this teach me about God?
  • What does this reveal about humanity?
  • Where am I in this story?
  • What needs to change in me?

6. Respond in Prayer and Action

End with prayer, asking God to help you live what you’ve read.
“Lord, help me not just to understand your Word, but to become it.”

7. Repeat Daily or Weekly

Like physical exercise, the benefit is in regular practice. Over time, Scripture forms you more deeply in grace.


Featured Upcoming Events:

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.

Learn More

Next Steps

on 7/6/2025 from 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM

"Join us at 'Next Steps,' our recurring gathering where we explore the future of our church's ministry and your role within it. Discover how you can make a meaningful impact by plugging into our diverse ministries."

Learn More

The Next Two Weeks at Berwyn UMC:

Date: Time: Summary
Jun 23 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Monthly Food Distribution at Trinity House Learn More
Jul 06 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM Next Steps Learn More
Jun 23 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Monthly Food Distribution at Trinity House Learn More
Jun 24 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Food Pantry Distribution Hours: Learn More
Jun 24 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Troop 181 Meeting Learn More
Jun 25 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Steps to Freedom - Women's AA Meeting Learn More
Jun 29 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM Every Topic Considered Small Group Learn More
Jun 29 10:00 AM - 11:20 AM Weekly Worship Learn More
Jul 01 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Food Pantry Distribution Hours: Learn More
Jul 01 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Troop 181 Meeting Learn More
Jul 02 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Steps to Freedom - Women's AA Meeting Learn More
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