Order of Worship for Sunday, August 17th 2025

Prelude

Welcome

Call to Worship

Leader: We once walked in darkness, not knowing the road ahead.
People: But Christ has called us into His marvelous light.

Leader: The path may twist, the turns may surprise us.
People: But His light gives clarity and peace.

Leader: Let us lift our voices to the One who guides our journey.
People: We worship the Light that no darkness can overcome.

My Hope is Built UMH 368

Prayer of Confession

God of light and love, You call us to walk in the brightness of Your truth, but we sometimes choose the shadows. We hide what we don’t want to face, cling to fears that keep us from trusting You, and close our eyes to the needs of others.

Forgive us, Lord. Shine Your light into every hidden place in our hearts, not to shame us, but to set us free. In these moments of silence, hear the confessions of our hearts as we seek Your mercy.

[Silent confession]

Amen

Words of Assurance

Leader: The light of Christ has shone into our darkness, revealing grace greater than our sin. In Him, we are forgiven and set free.
People: Thanks be to God, who turns our night into day!

Passing of the Peace

First Reading:

John 1:1-7

Second Reading:

John 3:1-21

Sermon:

From Shadows to Sight by Pastor Kevin Rutledge

Hymn of Response

Blessed Assurance UMH 369

Tithes and Offerings

Give Now

Offertory Response

Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95

Offertory Prayer

God of light, You have called us out of darkness into Your marvelous light. In gratitude for Your grace and mercy, we offer these gifts to shine Your hope into the world.

Use them—and use us— so that others may see Your love, walk in Your truth, and live in the peace only You can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer

Announcements

Closing Hymn

I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light UMH 206

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 5/6/2026 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 5/25/2026 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.