AN OPEN AND AFFIRMING CONGREGATION
OF THE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
WALKING IN DARKNESS
NOVEMBER 30, 2014
Matthew 13:24-37
24
“But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the
moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the
powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see ‘the Son of Man
coming in clouds’ with great power and glory. 27 Then he will send out the
angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to
the ends of heaven.
28
“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and
puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see
these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly I
tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken
place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 32
“But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the
Son, but only the Father.
33
Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. 34 It is like
a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge,
each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. 35
Therefore, keep awake—for you do not know when the master of the house
will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, 36 or else
he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. 37 And what I say to you I say
to all: Keep awake.”
ORDER FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP
November 30, 2014
First Sunday of Advent - HOPE
10:00 a.m.
Image for Reflection – Front Cover: Candlelit vigil in London, March 1,
2013, on the 2nd anniversary of the start of the Syria conflict. Photo by AFP Carl Court at http://english.al-akhbar.com. Copyright Creative Commons.
PRELUDE
Andantino Pastorale
Kate Cholditch Smith
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND WORDS OF WELCOME
MUSICAL SUMMONS There Are Angels Hovering ‘round
Traditional
There are angels hovering ‘round; there are angels hovering ‘ round.
There are angels, angels hovering ‘round.
ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING
CJ, Kate, Ben and Beth Stephan
The first candle is lit while we sing: O Come, O Come Emmanuel:
O come, o come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here until the Child of God appear.
Rejoice, rejoice! Emmanuel, shall come to you, O Israel!
ONE:
This morning, we light the candle of hope, mindful of all those who
feel like hope is out of reach.
TWO:
By the light of this candle, show us the ways that we might be the
bearers of hope –
THREE:
In someone’s life and in the world.
ALL:
Then lead us to act to be that hope.
*HYMN
Come, O Long Expected Jesus
___________________________________
*Please rise, on your feet or in your hearts.
See Next Page
COME, O LONG EXPECTED JESUS
PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Advent God: About now, every year, time seems to speed up. We can
get anxious, distracted, or just over-worked. When we get caught up
in the rush; when patience runs thin and attention runs short; forgive
us, we pray. Help us to notice – the lights in the window, the people
around us, gestures of kindness and cries for help. Remind us that
you are everywhere working to surprise us with new life. This
Advent, teach us to really see, and to honor every person you send
our way.
MOMENT OF SILENCE
GOD’S PROMISE
*A SIGN OF OUR UNITY AND RECONCILIATION
We invite you to join in a practice of the ancient church by greeting those
around you, saying, “Peace” or “The peace of Christ be with you.”
*RESPONSE OF PRAISE (sung twice)
Gloria … In Excelsis Deo;
Gloria … In Excelsis Deo!
CHILDREN’S TIME
SCRIPTURE READING
Mark 13:24-37
Mick Stephan
SUNG RESPONSE (sung twice)
Christopher Grundy
We are waiting for you
Knowing that you always abide.
We are waking to your presence,
And our hearts are open wide, open wide.
SERMON
Walking in Darkness
Rev. Alison J. Buttrick Patton
MUSICAL RESPONSE
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
During the prayer, you are invited to name out loud the people,
places or situations that are on your heart and mind.
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 trespasses, as we forgive
those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver
us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power and the glory
forever. Amen.
SUNG RESPONSE
Hear our prayer, O Lord. Hear our prayer, O Lord.
Incline thine ear to us and grant us thy peace.
OFFERING INVITATION
OFFERTORY SOLO
Veni, veni, Emanuel
9th c. - Arr. Patrick Liebergen
Carol Woodman, soloist
*PRESENTATION OF GIFTS AND OFFERINGS
What can I offer, poor that I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb.
If I were a wise one, I would do my part.
But what I can I offer: offer all my heart.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
*CLOSING HYMN
Watcher, Tell Us of The Night
See Next Page
*BENEDICTION
POSTLUDE
* * * ** *
The Special Offering this month is for Positive Directions.
Look for the offering envelope in your pew.
WATCHER, TELL US OF THE NIGHT
The hymns today are from The New Century Hymnal, Copyright © 1995 The Pilgrim Press. Permission is granted for this one-time use.
WELCOME TO SAUGATUCK CHURCH
TO ALL WHO JOIN US THIS MORNING: We’re glad you are here! SCC
is an “Open and Affirming” congregation of the United Church of Christ. That
means we welcome all God’s diverse people: no matter your age or whom you
love or what questions you bring to the table. We are a community more
curious than certain. We are serious about faith, but try not to take ourselves
too seriously. We value both study and service. We are nourished by prayer,
inspired by the creative gifts of all ages, and determined to make a difference in
the world. In short, we are: A COMMUNITY OF CHRIST
WELCOMING ALL PEOPLE
LEARNING TO LOVE AND SERVE
GOD AND NEIGHBOR
* * * * * *
Rev. Alison J. Buttrick Patton, Pastor
Mr. Alexander P. Floyd Marshall, Associate Pastor for Youth and Children
Dr. Heather A. Hamilton, Director of Music
* * * * * *
“Liturgy” means “Work of the people.” This fall, our liturgy - calls to
worship and prayers of confession - are being written by Saugatuck Church
members. Thanks to the following Liturgical Writers: Susie Benton, Michael
Hendricks, Tag Mendillo, Craig Patton and Willie Salmond, along with pastors
Alison Patton and Alex Marshall. Interested in writing for worship? See Rev.
Alison Patton.
* * * ** *
THE FLOWERS TODAY ARE GIVEN BY THE BETTS FAMILY
IN LOVING MEMORY OF JEANNE GRACE BETTS AND ELWOOD BETTS.
THE DEACON OF THE DAY IS MARTY HAUHUTH.
THE DEACONS ON CALL FOR DECEMBER ARE DAN LONG AND ABBY PETERSON.
* * * ** *
SPECIAL THANKS THIS MORNING TO:
 Generous givers: all those Saugatuck Church members and friends who
have contributed time, talent and treasure to help this community and its’
ministries thrive. You are helping us to make a difference!
 Abby Peterson, Priscilla Long, Lois Himes, Marcia Harrington and Alex
Marshall and all those who helped with the office move on Friday!
SAUGATUCK AT PRAYER
PRAYERS FOR OUR CHURCH:
Christine Allen; Lynn Anderson*; the family of Elwood Betts, who passed
away on Nov. 25th*; Freddie and Russ Brenneman; Ken and Jean Bowden; the
family of Elmer Crager; the family of Bob Curtis, who passed away last week*;
Michael Helfer; the Mayer family; Kathi Mitchell; Colleen Plantinga; Betty
Raila; Kris Schwindeman-Devendorf; Jim Sweeney; Sheldon Thompson
(Kathy Ross’s father); and Sarah Wheeler (Holly Wheeler’s sister). Please hold
them in God’s presence and in the light of Christ. New additions.*
Russ Brenneman is at the Jewish Home in Fairfield– cards may be sent to 175
Jefferson St, Fairfield, CT 06825.
Jack Morrow has moved to The Greens at Cannondale, 435 Danbury Road,
Unit 207, Wilton, CT 06997. His phone is 203-563-0034 direct.
Dear God, as we complete construction on our church and move back in:
bless this transition. Lend us patience as we sift through boxes and check off
lists. Help us to be both organized and flexible. Teach us to hold our stuff
lightly and treat each other with grace. Ease any worry; inspire our plans.
When the projects threaten to overwhelm, refocus our gaze on the big picture:
Prepare us to joyfully welcome others as you welcome us! Amen.
PRAYERS FOR OUR WORLD:
Positive thoughts and prayers for our friends at Positive Directions this month.
In the wake of the Grand Jury decision this week, prayers for Ferguson,
Missouri. O God, help us to listen deeply to those in pain. Guide us as we work
together to build communities rooted in dignity and respect for all people.
Prayers of healing for those suffering the ravages of the ebola virus; strength
and wisdom for care-givers and scientists working to stem the epidemic.
For peace in Israel-Palestine: As tensions continue in the Holy Land, we pray
for Palestinians and Israelis, two peoples of three faiths (Islam, Judaism and
Christianity).
Continued prayers for the Nigerian school girls who have been kidnapped by
Boko Haram: for their well-being and safe return. #BringBackOurGirls.
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT SAUGATUCK
Learn more at www.saugatuckchurch.org, on Facebook or at 203.227.1261
WEEKLY:
Bible Study: Every Wednesday, 9:30 am – 11 am at location TBD.
Centering Prayer: Join us every Thursday, 5:30 – 6:15 pm at location TBD
for silent prayer and candle lighting. Centering Prayer e-mail list: The
readings before each prayer period are now being sent to everyone on the list.
Let Frank know if you’d like to be on the list – [email protected].
Youth Group: Wednesday nights, 7-8:30pm at location TBD.
COMING UP:
Advent Mini-Retreat – Saturday, Dec. 6, 2 – 4:30 pm (New time again!), location TBD
Advent Workshop and Christmas Craft Fair – After worship, Sunday,
Dec 7, at Temple Israel
Angel Tree Gifts – Gifts gathered Sunday, Dec. 7 (tags still available)
Blue Christmas - Sunday, Dec. 14, 4 pm: A candle-lit worship for those
feeling the blues. Co-hosted with the United Methodist Church and held in
the UMC sanctuary: 49 Weston Road.
Middle School Youth Group Christmas Party – Dec. 14
High School Youth Group Christmas Party – Dec. 17
A Merry Band of Carolers – Sunday, Dec. 21: Caravan around Westport
to sing for SCC members and friends
Christmas Eve Pageant 5 pm and Candlelight Service 9 pm– Dec. 24
Community Christmas Open House (instead of feast) – Thurs., Dec. 25
Women’s Spirituality Group – 2nd and 4th Sunday evenings
* * ** **
FACEBOOK:
Join our group, “Saugatuck Congregational Church” – it’s the fellowship
hour that never ends!
Like our page, facebook.com/saugatuckchurch – This is the public face of
Saugatuck. ‘Liking’ helps others to discover us.
WEEKLY CALENDAR
SUNDAY, November 30– First Sunday of Advent
10:00 a.m. Morning Worship and Church School – Temple Israel
11:15 a.m. Fellowship Hour and Angel Tree Gifts Gathered
TUESDAY, December 2
7:30 p.m. Church Council Mtg. – Positive Directions, 420 Post Rd. West
WEDNESDAY, December 3
9:30 a.m. Bible Study – Jesup House (parsonage), 265 Post Rd. E.
7:00 p.m. High School Youth Group – Bar Taco
THURSDAY, December 4
8:30 a.m. Men’s Group – Jesup House (parsonage), 265 Post Rd. E.
5:30 p.m. Centering Prayer – Location TBD
FRIDAY, December 5
8:30 a.m. MarCom Meeting – Jesup House (parsonage), 265 Post Rd. E
SATURDAY, December 6
4:30 p.m. Advent Mini-Retreat – Location TBD
SUNDAY, December 7– Second Sunday of Advent
10:00 a.m. Morning Worship and Church School – Temple Israel
11:15 a.m. Angel Tree Gift Tags, Advent Workshop, Christmas Craft Fair
12:00 p.m. Youth Group – Location TBD
* * * * * *
YOUTH AND CHILDREN
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Youth Group Is Back This Week:
Wednesday, Dec. 3, 7pm, join us for dinner at Bar
Taco! (Bring a little money for your tacos)
 Advent Workshop for children of all ages:
Sunday, Dec. 7 (note change) after worship.
 Middle School Youth Group Christmas
Party: Sunday, December 14, after worship. Location TBD.
 High School Youth Group Christmas Party: Wednesday, Dec.
17, 7pm. Location TBD.
 Middle School Youth Group Heifer Trip: May 1-3, 2015!

2014-15 LONG VIEW – AT A GLANCE!
Planning is underway for a range of events and programs. Here’s a snapshot of
what’s unfolding at SCC. Stay tuned: more details in the coming weeks!
JANUARY
CE-sponsored All-Ages event – hot cocoa, star-gazing…and more! TBA
Art and The Practice of Prayer – 7-Part Video series and small group
discussion. Time TBA
Missions Fair – January 18 after worship: Learn about our mission
partners; discover ways to get involved and make a difference!
Snow Fest on the Great Lawn and sledding in Winslow Park- after the
first big snow!
Youth Groups and Families Ski Trip in January/February, Date TBA
Women’s Spirituality Group – 2nd and 4th Sunday evenings
FEBRUARY
Community-wide Martin Luther King, Jr. Event, hosted by the
Interfaith Council – Sunday, Feb. 8
Ash Wednesday morning: Prayer and Ashes – Feb. 18
Art Opening: Thin Places Exhibit by MaryEllen Hendricks – Feb. 27,
Friday: Display to continue throughout the season of Lent.
Lenten Small Group opportunities - TBA
Women’s Spirituality Group – 2nd and 4th Sunday evenings
MARCH
Re-dedication Worship Celebration – Date TBA - worship with
reception to follow. Gather with community and interfaith partners to
celebrate our return to 245 Post Road E, bless our new space and say
‘Thank you!’ to those who have supported us during the last three years.
Women’s Retreat – March 13 – 15, Silver Lake Conference Center
Pivot Ministries Service Day – Date TBA
APRIL
Easter Sunday, April 5
Mini-Maker Faire, Westport – Saturday, April 25
Women’s Spirituality Group – 2nd and 4th Sunday evenings
MAY
Middle School Heifer Farm Trip – May 1-3, Rutland, MA.
Story Tent – Date TBA
Women’s Spirituality Group – 2nd and 4th Sunday evenings
JUNE
Youth Mission Trip – June 20-26 – Portland, Maine
Merry Christmas!
Exclusive Holiday Savings!
2014 Poinsettia Christmas Plants
Provided and in Support of Pivot Ministries
PIVOT GREEN
Red and White Poinsettias
4.5" Pot: 1 plant (pinched); 3-4 blooms
$ 6.00
6.5" Pot: 1 plant; 4-6 blooms
$12.00
7.5" Pot: 2 plants; 6-10 blooms
$17.00
8.5" Pot: 3 plants; 10+ blooms
$25.00
10" Pot: 4 plants; 15+ blooms
$35.00
To place orders, please contact Marcia at
203-227-1261 or email [email protected]
Please make checks payable to: Pivot Green
Please place orders no later than Monday, December 8
for pick up Monday, December 22.
Thank you to all who participated in Gratitude Sunday last weekend by
contributing beautiful music, dramatic performance, inspiring words, delicious
food, or heart-felt testimony. Thanks, particularly, to all of you who have
committed to stewarding this great church into a new and exciting faith-filled
future!
For those who didn’t get a chance to make your 2015 pledge; it’s not and is
never too late.
You can:

Fill out the pledge card you received in the mail and send it to 245 Post
Road East, Westport, CT 06880. If you never received a pledge card
please call Bruce Borner at (203) 221-7780 to request one.

Make an on-line pledge by going to www.saugatuckchurch.org. Click on
the Giving Season banner in the slide show, then select ‘ways to give.’

Download a pledge card at www.saugatuckchurch.org. Click on the
Giving Season banner in the slide show, then on ‘download a pledge
card.’ fill it out and mail it in.
With gratitude,
Reverend Alison Patton and the 2015 Stewardship Committee:
Bruce Borner, Jane Mangold and Louis Cozzi (Dan Long, committee advisor)