The United Church of Christ came into being in 1957 with the union of two Protestant denominations: The Evangelical and Reformed Church and the Congregational Christian Churches. The motto of the United Church of Christ is found in John 17:21, “That they may all be one.” Part of what we believe is best summarized by, “In essentials unity, in non-essentials diversity.” The unity that we seek requires neither an uncritical acceptance of any point of view, nor rigid formulation of doctrine. That which binds us together, in spite of our differences, is love. Because faith can be expressed in many different ways, the United Church of Christ has no formula that is a test of faith. Regarding the Bible, we believe that the Bible was written in specific historical times and places. However, we also believe that the Bible still speaks to us in our present condition and that the study of the Bible is not limited to past interpretations. We firmly believe that God is still speaking! We also believe in the priesthood of all believers. All members and friends of the United Church of Christ are called to minister to one another and to the world. Ordained ministers guide and instruct but in no way are called to do the work of ministry on their own. The United Church of Christ also stresses responsible freedom. As members of the Body of Christ, we are free to act in accordance with our perception of God’s will for our lives. But, we are also called to live in loving, covenantal relationship with one another - gathering in communities of faith, congregations of believers, local churches. And finally, “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!” Staff The Rev. Mr. Todd A. Petty, Senior Minister (ext. 11) - [email protected] The Rev. Dr. Patrick Coyle, Minister of Music (ext. 29) - [email protected] Gloria Eckert, Director of Children’s Ministry (ext. 14) - [email protected] Terrie Hunter, Parish Visitor and Member Engagement (ext. 12) - [email protected] Steve Smith, Principal Organist (ext. 24) Phyllis Miner, Music Associate and Associate Organist (ext. 24) Cheryl Wells, Music Associate - Director of Carol Choir Mary Maczka , Music Associate - Director of Park Singers Lisa Smith, Executive Assistant to the Senior Minister (ext. 17) - [email protected] Natalie Barlas, Administrative Assistant (ext. 18) - [email protected] Gene Gess, Director of Finance (ext. 13) - [email protected] Marty Butler, Program Staff Assistant - [email protected] John Ott, Lead Custodian and Food Service (ext. 26) - [email protected] Mark Kelly, Custodian Rachel Creamer, Custodian Church Office Email [email protected] Sunday, November 9, 2014 / Ten-thirty in the morning The Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time An Open and Affirming Congregation No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here! Statement of Welcome and Inclusion As Jesus demonstrated by his life and teachings, we fully welcome into the life of Park Church and value all people regardless of beliefs or doubts; age, color, gender, sexual orientation or identity; physical, mental, or emotional ability; or economic status. In fact, we value and celebrate the rich diversity of all God’s creation. No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you’re welcome here. Vision To build a community of relentless compassion and courageous hope where all are seen and known and the God of extravagant Love is revealed. First (Park) Congregational Church, UCC 10 East Park Place NE Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 616.459.3203 / www.parkchurchgr.org Festival Worship Stewardship 2014 Green Prayer Cards If you would like to share a joy or concern and have it included in today's Pastoral Prayer, please see one of our ministers before the start of the service. Otherwise, fill out a Green Prayer Card and place it in the offering plate. Your joy or concern will be shared with the staff at their weekly staff meeting. Thank you. Weekly Eucharist You are invited to join the Pastor and a Deacon near the Children’s Altar in order to receive the Eucharist between 10:15 a.m. and 10:25 a.m. +Please stand as you are able Bold = Words spoken in unison Bold Italics = Words sung in unison Hearing devices are available from the Ushers upon request. Gathering Music I Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, excelling in the work of the Lord as always, because your labor in the Lord isn’t going to be for nothing.” Our Stewardship Campaign: Steadfast and Strong has begun. November 16th is Stewardship Sunday, the day we walk up making our commitment with our pledge. We need to remain steadfast in our pledging this year, mindful that with all the exciting changes that will be occurring at Park Church, Park Church needs to remain STRONG. Staying committed with our Mission Outreach, keeping our programs strong and beneficial, as well as keeping our old historical building strong for generations to come. These are ways that we at Park Church remain good Stewards for all. Steven B. Smith, organ The Welcome ss +Passing the Peace and Love of Jesus Christ ss Announcements, Joys, and Concerns Prelude Gene Gess, flute Phyllis Miner, harp Gymnopedies I and III Erik Satie, John Russo Introit Chancel Choir My Eternal King Jane Marshall My God, I love Thee, and will love and in Thy praise will sing Solely because Thou art my God and my eternal King. 2 11 Adult Education At Park The Faith Formation committee is pleased to host a series of conversations about Heaven. Join us after worship Nov 9, and Nov 23 over a light lunch to talk about books, perspective, interpretation, and experience. We have facilitators to guide our discussions and your participation in as many sessions as you can attend is strongly encouraged. Books are available in the office for $10. Conversations About Heaven: Today at 11:45: Dr. Gregory Frey will facilitate a book discussion and conversation about the bestselling Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey Into the Afterlife by Eben Alexander. This exceptionally popular book is not without controversy. Our discussion will focus on some the scientific aspects of this narrative. Bring your questions! Sunday, November 23 at 11:45: Rev. Richard A. Rhem will facilitate a discussion on faith, life, heaven, and the human experience. We will talk about classical interpretations of scripture, the progressive perspective, and whatever else comes to mind. Please join us! +The Hymn - No. 93 Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates TRURO +Opening Prayer Loving and gracious God, our busy, hectic, crazy lives often filled with worry, anxiety, and fear deplete us in every way. Our goals and aspirations, though worthwhile -- our to-do lists, though important -- often deplete us in every way. Running on empty, we simply come -- come into your presence seeking release, renewal, and peace. So bless us in this hour with these gifts and we will offer thanks and praise in the name of the One who came to give us newness of life, even Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen. Blessing of the Children Children and youth are dismissed for Worship Centers and Sunday School Classes. First time visitors with children and youth: we invite you to go with your children to see their classrooms and to meet their teachers. Then come back and join us for worship! Anthem Parkmeisters Till We Reach That Day / Make Them Hear You from the musical Ragtime Arr. Terry LaBolt Morning Prayer Free Yoga Wednesday 6:30 to 8:00 pm - Spindler Dining Room Join us in Spindler Dining Room from 6:30-8:00pm for free yoga with instructor Susan Duesbury. Mats and blankets are provided, or you can bring your own. Childcare is available upon request. Please contact the office one week in advance to request childcare. 10 One: All: One: The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray… Our Savior’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 debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into 3 temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. Choral Response Hear Our Prayer, O Lord Anonymous Scripture Lesson Gail Bickel Matthew 25:1-13 Pew Bible Pg. 860 Large Print Bible Pg. 26 One: All: The word of the Lord… Thanks be to God! Sound: Sam Johnson Weekly Eucharist: Stephen Worst Docent: Helen Bisbee Flower Care: Shirley Metzger Greeters: Kelly and Jake Weibel, Kurt and Cindy Myers Parking Lot: Fritz Crabb Worship Center Teachers: Grades Pre-K & K: Lori Riegling, Hilary Meulenberg, Alicia Johnson, Sheryl Bodien +Gloria Patri Glory be to the Father (Creator), and to the Son (Christ) and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be. World without end. Amen. Sermon Serving With You Today The Rev. Todd A. Petty Running on Empty Grades 1 thru 3: Laura Barnum, Greggory Hampshire, Amy Virkstis, Emily Laage Grades 4 & 5: Cindy Myers, Kurt Myers, Misty Holwerda Middle School Teachers: Christina Geurkink, Dave Kutsche, Wendell Kutsche. High School Teacher: Terrie Hunter Nursery: Julie Skripka, Jennifer Hagemann Toddlers (Little Lambs): David Heth and Lynda O’Malley A Moment for Quiet Reflection +The Hymn - No. 839 Blessed Assurance ASSURANCE A Moment for Stewardship Ushers: Dave Erickson - Captain, Richard Rowe, Cindy Dexter, Tom Vandenberg, Robert Smith, Susan Sochanek, Chuck Dietiker, Matt MacGregor. Camille DeBoer Receiving of God’s Tithe and Our Offerings Offertory Chancel Choir A Prayer for Our Time Joseph Martin (Incorporating The Navy Hymn) 4 9 Joys and Concerns of Our Church Family Rosemary Alland Scotty Dannison Chris Guin Katie Haines John Hanington Elaine Henry Deb Mondry Suzan Smith Terry Sprenkle Jon and Lois Wier Those serving our nation in the military, especially: Joe Birkhold Kit Grant Kyle Kutsche Janet Presley Our Christian Joys are with Mike and Janet Mitchell upon the birth of their grandson, Cai Mitchell Naylor. Cai was born at 1:30 am on November 4, 2014, weighing 6 lbs, 1 oz. Our Christian Sympathy is with Dave Stader with the passing of his wife, Carol Stader. Carol passed from this life to life eternal on Thursday, November 6, 2014. Arrangements are pending at this time. Our God, to Thee we pray. Heal our nation, Lord, today. God of mercy, grant us courage. Give us peace. When evil draws its angry sword and seeks to sever freedom's cord, When death and darkness shake our faith in God's unfailing power to save, Eternal Father, ever be our courage in the time of need. When war is waged by faceless foes who battle peace with fiery blows, When storms of hate and fear assail, our Father's mighty arm prevails, Eternal Father, ever be our refuge in the time of need. Amen. +Doxology Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him (God) all creatures here below; Praise Him (God) above ye heavenly hosts; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. (Creator, Christ, and Holy Ghost). Amen. +Prayer of Dedication +The Hymn - No. 757 Today We All Are Called to Be Disciples KINGSFOLD +Our Common Commission Let us now go forth into the world in peace; being of good courage; holding fast to that which is good; rendering to no one evil for evil; strengthening the faint hearted; supporting the weak; helping the afflicted; honoring all people; loving and serving the Lord and rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit. The service of worship concludes with The Common Commission. Please join us after the service for coffee and fellowship in Merriam Hall. If you are leaving the Sanctuary during the Postlude, please be mindful of others. Thank You. Postlude 8 Postlude on “Melita” Charles Callahan 5 Great American Voices After Worship... Friday, November 21, 2014 – 8:00 PM You are invited to greet The Rev. Todd Petty and The Rev. Dr. Patrick Coyle in the Narthex. Docent Helen Bisbee will be waiting to give you historical information about Park Church. Thank you for worshiping with us today! MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY MEN’S GLEE CLUB One of the finest Glee Clubs in the country, the MSU Men’s Glee Club is also one of the oldest organizations on the campus. Performing a stirring mixture of traditional male choral literature, patriotic songs, spirituals and popular music, the Glee Club is a joy to hear and watch. The Glee Club has grown since its formation in 1880 and has enjoyed a considerable reputation as a touring choral ensemble. The Flowers  The flowers on the Altar are in loving memory of Bert Furman, given by the Charles Furman Family.  The flowers by the Pulpit are in memory of Carroll and Fran Streeter, given by their family.  The flowers at the Lectern are in memory of Dr. G. Richard Johnston, given by the family.  The flowers on the Children’s Altar are in honor of all the children. Individual Tickets: $20 Advance / $25 At the Door Student Tickets: $10 Advance / $15 At the Door (Under 18 or with valid student ID) Advance Ticket Sales End at Noon on November 21st! 6 7