Bolded text is to be said, sung, or done together as a congregation. You can rise in these moments as well, either in body or spirit.
Gathering: Preparing to Hear the Word
In Preparation for Worship
"The character of God given us in Jesus is so overwhelmingly powerful for the care of life, not only in this age, but in the age to come, that we may be sure about the long term, for the long term is safely in God’s good hands."
Sentences of Scripture
Rev. Lynette Sparks
Opening Voluntary
Concerto Grosso #11 G. F. Handel I. Andante larghetto, e staccato
Eric Tanner and Diane Helle, Violin
Stacey Tanner, Cello; Westminster Festival Strings
Sharing the Life of Westminster
Rev. Laurie Hartzell
Introit
“A Song of Glad Thanksgiving,” Terry Kirkland
Call to Worship
One: We gather, looking back to see the paths taken,
All: looking forward to see our path.
One: We honor those who have gone before us,
All: learning from their successes and failures.
One: We celebrate who we are today,
All: and welcome the possibilities and opportunities before us.
One: We gather to worship God,
All: the God of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Hymn 687: Our God, Our Help in Ages Past
St. Anne
Prayer of Confession
Elder Karen Meyers
O God, you have never stopped moving in the world and calling your church to follow your lead. Forgive us when we forget your faithfulness to us in times past. Forgive us when we fail to trust your spirit leading us into the future. Forgive us when we hold so tightly to the past, that we hesitate to listen to your message coming to us through the voice of a neighbor, a stranger, or a new generation. Forgive us, O God, and grant us assurance that you have never stopped reforming your church, for you are the one who makes all things new.
Silent Confession
Assurance of God's Grace
One: Friends, believe the Good News.
All: In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven.
Response Hymn 42: Glory Be to the Father
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, amen.
Passing the Peace of Christ
One: The peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
All: And also with you.
Ministry of Music
Concerto Grosso #11 G.F. Handel V. Allegro
Linda Nelson and Eileen Doty, Violin
Lee Copenhaver, Cello; Westminster Festival Strings
Recognition of Heritage Members (11:00 a.m.)
Elder Karen Meyers and Rev. Jen Porter
Blessings with Younger Disciples (11:00 a.m.)
Children three years through second grade may finish their time of worship in the Worship Centers. Children’s worship leaders or parents will shepherd them from the Sanctuary to their rooms. Parents may pick them up in their worship rooms following the service.
Congregation: As you worship together, may God be with you.
Children: And may God be with you.
Congregation: Go in peace!
The Word
Prayer for Illumination
We pray that the words of Scripture may be encountered as God’s Word.
Scripture
Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16; 12:1-2, New Testament p. 225
Sermon
“All In: A Kin-dom of Love,” Rev. Lynette Sparks
Responding to the Word
Testimony of God's Faithfulness
Nancy Taylor
Offering Our Lives
Rev. Kyle Kooyers
Offertory
“Saints Bound for Heaven” arr. Parker/Shaw
Doxology
Means “words of glory.” They are a traditional expression of praise to God.
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host; Creator, Christ, and Holy Ghost!
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper
For those worshiping in the sanctuary, we are using pre-packaged communion elements with gluten-free bread and juice. If you didn’t receive one before you entered the sanctuary, simply raise your hand, and an usher will bring you one. Children are welcome to participate in this sacrament. You may place the used packaging materials on the communion racks on the back of the pews, and then dispose of them in bins when you exit the sanctuary at the conclusion of the service.
Invitation to the Table
Great Prayer of Thanksgiving
The Lord's Prayer
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Words of Institution
Communion of the People
Prayer of Response
Faithful God, you have fed us at this table along with that great multitude of your faithful people. Keep us faithful to your call, and abide with us always, that we may serve you in all things. In the name of Jesus Christ, who called the Church into being. Amen.
Going Out to Be the Church
Hymn 326:: For All the Saints
Charge and Benediction
The Charge: Go into the world in peace. Have courage. Hold on to all that is good. Return no one evil for evil. Do justice. Walk with those who are fainthearted. Help those who suffer. Honor all people. Love and serve God, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Participants in Today's Service
Preacher: Rev. Lynette Sparks
Liturgists: Rev. Laurie Hartzell, Interim Associate Pastor; Karen Meyers, Elder for Older Adults; Rev. Jen Porter, Associate Pastor; Nancy Greidanus, Minister for Children and Their Families; Nancy Taylor, Westminster Member; Rev. Kyle Kooyers, Parish Associate
Musicians: Helen Hofmeister, Minister of Music; Festival Strings; Henry Duitman, Festival Strings Director; Carol Choir; Emma Taranko, Carol Choir Director; Josh Zallar, Carol Choir Violinist; Janlee Richter, Harpsichord and Piano