Worship Service

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Third Sunday After the Epiphany, January 23, 2022

Invitation to Worship with Cathy Richards-Marcy

Prelude

Greetings and Announcements

Opening Prayer
Almighty God, clothe us in the mantle of praise that we may always rejoice in proclaiming your glory and in receiving your blessings, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Opening Hymn:               “Come Let Us All Unite to Sing”

Call to Worship   Psalm 119

Prayer of the Day
Leader: God of all kindness, we thank you for the many ways your love enters our lives.
People: You have filled our mouths with laughter and our tongues with singing.
Leader: Accept our sacrifice of song in your church on earth,
People: and grant us a part in the music of your church in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN

Scripture:   Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10

Message: Cathy Richards-Marcy

Hymn:               “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee”                   UMH #89

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:   Leader:
Alleluia?                  Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!              Response: Hear our prayer!

Celebrations:

Bob’s procedure went well
Connie’s neighbor, Eva, is new Assistant Town Clerk for Topsham

Petitions:

Gary & Linda Moore
Stephanie, Gayle, Debbie, & Riley—COVID, loss of Father, grandfather, Debbie struggling to get flight home
Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, TX following hostage situation
Those impacted by the tsunami in the Pacific.
17 yr. old girl driving icy roads, hit and killed a pedestrian
Children being left behind because of COVID
Carol, Beth’s friend, has bad cold
Beth, has ups and downs, missing friends in VT
Shureen—friends visited her family and now struggling to get home
Those out in the weather
Friend of Cheryl’s exposed to COVID and struggling to find test. Cancellation/postponement of friend’s surgery due to COVID exposure, Friend struggling with isolation.

Pastoral Prayer

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering our Gifts of Thanksgiving and Praise

Doxology (please sing)
This is the day,
this is the day,
that the Lord hath made,
that the Lord hath made,
Let us rejoice,
let us rejoice
and be glad in it,
and be glad in it.
This is the day that the Lord hath made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day,
this is the day that the Lord hath made.

Offering Prayer
Overflowing joy welled up in rich generosity in the Macedonian churches two thousand years ago.  May our gifts be not just financial, but also in our joyful spirits.  AMEN

Hymn to Send Us Into the World           “Now Thank We All Our God”           UMH #102

Benediction
Spirit of Peace, quiet our hearts, heal our anxious thoughts, free us from our fretful ways.  Breathe on us your holy calm so that in the stillness of your presence we may open ourselves to trust and be transformed. AMEN

Postlude

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Church Council Meeting: Tuesday, February 8, 2022 over zoom.
Convergence Leadership Project features Brian McLaren. Earlier this year, we joined together with author and activist, Brian McLaren, to study his latest book, “Faith After Doubt.” What a great experience! After hearing so many requests for more time with Brian, we reached out to him and his colleagues at Convergence to explore next steps. We are excited to invite New England clergy and laity to participate in for four online courses in 2022 taught by Brian and the Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis. Each video course will include a live session with McLaren. Learn more
NE CORR offers ‘New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism’

The New England Conference Commission on Religion and Race is offering a five-week course titled New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism beginning March 3, 2022. This workshop is designed for people who understand that racism is a deeply embedded problem in our society. There is an application process to join the course; application deadline is Feb. 3, 2022. Learn more and apply

Still time to donate jewelry for AC 22 sale

Thank you very much for the wonderful jewelry donations we have received! We look forward to offering many beautiful choices at the 2022 Annual Conference while also benefitting youth ministries here in New England. We are so grateful for your support! — Prema Devadhar and Lori McKinley We are still happily collecting donations of gently used jewelry. You may bring donations to district events or mail them to:
New England Conference
411 Merrimack St., Suite 200
Methuen, MA 01844
Attention: Bishop’s Office

Enter the Local Church History Writing Contest

Convergence Leadership Project features Brian McLaren. Earlier this year, we joined together with author and activist, Brian McLaren, to study his latest book, “Faith After Doubt.” What a great experience! After hearing so many requests for more time with Brian, we reached out to him and his colleagues at Convergence to explore next steps. We are excited to invite New England clergy and laity to participate in for four online courses in 2022 taught by Brian and the Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis. Each video course will include a live session with McLaren. Learn more
NE CORR offers ‘New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism’

Still time to donate jewelry for AC 22 sale

Enter the Local Church History Writing Contest

Phyllis spent the night at Pat’s
Rebecca saw Eliza at baby shower
____’s Daughter is safe, didn’t have to evacuate, but has shared pictures of the fires
Baby “K” has gross motor challenges, but finally took a couple of unsupported steps

Concerns:

The families of Bob Clark and Kay Sinclair
Christie Manning
Pastor Ami’s brother’s family and her sister, all diagnosed with COVID
Jackson as he returns to Maine
Those suffering COVID fatigue

Pastoral Prayer
Holy Spirit, as we have renewed our vows, we have been renewed in strength of spirit. Hear now our prayers of celebration of the presence of the Holy Trinity in our lives. Hear our celebrations as we remember the healing of the sick, the joy of families gathering, as we witness the wonders of your creation and celebrate the mile markers in our lives. Hear our cries of anguish as we see the increasing numbers of those falling ill with COVID, as we hear diagnoses of cancer and other terminal diseases, comfort us in our distress, surround us with your love. May your peace, a peace that is beyond our understanding surround and comfort the families of those who grieve this day. Whether it is the loss of family members or friends to death, or the loss of home and memories to fires, storms or other disasters, we can become so devastated that we lose our way. May your peace comfort us and keep us on track that we may remain strong in our faith and share the comfort which you have shared with us with others. May we always trust and follow your Son, Jesus, who knows our griefs, shares our pain, and continued to trust in you, turning to you alone for strength. And now, as he taught his disciples, we boldly pray together…

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering our Gifts of Thanksgiving and Praise
The magi came before the child, Jesus, offering gifs of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. What gifts do we bring this day?

Doxology (A song of praise to God)   “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” (v. 5)       UMH #139

Offering Prayer
Amazing God, your Spirit moved over the waters at the creation of the world. Your Spirit filled your Son, Jesus, guiding and sustaining him throughout his ministry. In celebration of your presence in our own lives, in thanksgiving and praise for the wonders you work in the world today, we offer these gifts for your use. Multiply them as you need that they may serve you along with our hands, feet, and voices, that all the world may come to know of your unending love and mercy. Amen.

Hymn to Send Us Into the World       “Baptized in Water” (v. 3)           TFWS #2248

Benediction

Postlude

“New Service of Reaffirmation of the Baptismal Covenant” by Taylor Burton-Edwards, Copyright General Board of Discipleship. www.GBOD.org Used by permission.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Church Council Meeting: Tuesday, January 11, 2022 over zoom.
Convergence Leadership Project features Brian McLaren. Earlier this year, we joined together with author and activist, Brian McLaren, to study his latest book, “Faith After Doubt.” What a great experience! After hearing so many requests for more time with Brian, we reached out to him and his colleagues at Convergence to explore next steps. We are excited to invite New England clergy and laity to participate in for four online courses in 2022 taught by Brian and the Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis. Each video course will include a live session with McLaren. Learn more
NE CORR offers ‘New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism’

Still time to donate jewelry for AC 22 sale

Enter the Local Church History Writing Contest

Prayers for the families of Bob Clark and Kay Sinclair.
Open House in memory of Bob Clark, who died Christmas Day, at Chris' daughter Molly's house at 127, N. Main St. in Bradford, VT. Sunday afternoon (January 2, 2022) from 1 to 4
Normal meetings: Thursday--Inter Church Council 10:00 a.m.; Friday --Finance at 10:30 a.m.
To watch a video of Sunday's Service, with Bishop Devadhar preaching, go to:
https://neumc-email.brtapp.com/files/fileshare/post+christmas+2021/ after+christmas+2021 +page.pdf
Join the United Methodist Men of the New England Conference and the Northeastern and Southeastern jurisdictions for a time of reflecting on 2021 and starting new in 2022. A Watch Night virtual service will be held at 10 pm ET on Friday, Dec. 31, via Zoom.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84656297696?pwd=V2FPb3YycnZuMnNNc2hHU3MrMC8zQT09 Meeting ID: 846 5629 7696, Passcode: 659649 or by phone: +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
Convergence Leadership Project features Brian McLaren. Earlier this year, we joined together with author and activist, Brian McLaren, to study his latest book, “Faith After Doubt.” What a great experience! After hearing so many requests for more time with Brian, we reached out to him and his colleagues at Convergence to explore next steps. We are excited to invite New England clergy and laity to participate in for four online courses in 2022 taught by Brian and the Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis. Each video course will include a live session with McLaren. Learn more
NE CORR offers ‘New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism’

CCFA seeks stories of economic injustice

The Conference Council on Finance and Administration is studying “Decolonizing Wealth” by indigenous author Edgar Villanueva. They are seeking your help in their work, and asking you to share your stories about the ways that conference patterns, practices, and systems cause and/or carry forward the effects of colonialist wealth. Read more

Re-Entry Team offers an update

In this Advent season, the Conference Re-Entry Team has received questions about congregational singing and COVID risk.
Read the latest from the team
Seeing an opportunity to work for justice?: See Differently. Serve Differently. Learn more and apply: https://neumc-email.brtapp.com/!Hs9+zr6+4EFs2U6v8UomA40czb9q8Y8OpoMdny+3 LQLY67QTOBMAtw4yD2xasPPYg

Still time to donate jewelry for AC 22 sale

Enter the Local Church History Writing Contest

The New England Conference Commission on Archives and History is accepting entries to its Local Church History Writing Contest, looking for the best histories of local churches written and published in the last six years. First, second and third prizes will be awarded for histories published between Jan. 1, 2016 and Dec. 31, 2021 in three categories by congregation size. Get contest details

Prelude       “Angels We Have Heard on High”      Haven UMC String Chamber Orchestra
East Providence, RI
Opening Prayer                        Jill Colley Robinson, Dean of the Cabinet

First Lesson                Psalm 98:1-4                    Darlene Bearse
   Ellsworth (ME) UMC
(English)
Psalm 98:1-4
Sing a new song to YHWH who has worked wonders, whose right hand and holy arm have brought deliverance! YHWH has made salvation known and shown divine justice to the nations, and has remembered in truth and love the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Shout to the Most High, all the earth, break into joyous songs of praise!

Carol        “O Come, All Ye Faithful”        Christmas Ensemble, Union Church, Boston
O come, all ye faithful,
joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye, to Bethlehem.
Come and behold him,
born the King of angels;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord.

Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation;
O sing, all ye citizens of heaven above!
Glory to God, all glory in the highest;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord.

Yea, Lord, we greet thee,
born this happy morning, Jesus, to thee be all glory given. Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord

Psalm 98:5-9                                   Rita Zanzerkia (Gujarati)
                                           Main St. UMC, Nashua, NH
Psalm 98:5-9
Sing praise to YHWH with the harp, with the harp and melodious singing! With trumpets and the blast of the shofar, raise a shout to YHWH, Ruler of All. Let the sea and all within it thunder;
the world and all its peoples. Let the rivers clap their hands and the hills ring out their joy before YHWH, who comes to judge the earth, who will rule the world with justice and its peoples with equity.

Carol            “A Christmas Celebration (medley)”            James Hong & Chris Shin
Trumpets

Second Lesson            Hebrews 1:1-6               Edward Crews (English)

Hebrews 1:7-12                                Julia Mendes (Portuguese)
Heritage UMC, Braintree MA
Hebrews 1:1-6
In times past, God spoke in fragmentary and varied ways to our ancestors through the prophets; in these final days, God has spoken to us through the Only Begotten, who has been made heir of all things and through whom the universe was first created.

Christ is the reflection of God’s glory, the exact representation of God’s being; all things are sustained by God’s powerful Word. Having cleansed us from our sins, Jesus Christ sat down at the right hand of the Glory of heaven — as far superior to the angels as the name Christ has inherited is superior to theirs.

For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Own; today I have begotten you,” or, “I will be your parent, and you will be my child,” or, as when God said upon bringing the Firstborn into the world, “Let all the angels of God worship you”?

Hebrews 1:7-12
Of the angels God says, “I make the angel winds, my servants flames of fire.” But to the Only Begotten, God says, “Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever, and justice is the scepter of your reign.

You love justice as much as you hate wickedness; therefore, God, your God, has set you above your companions and anointed you with the oil of gladness”; and, In the beginning, O God, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment.

You will roll them up like a cloak, and like a garment they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years never end.”

When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

Carol                        “Gesu Bambino”        Chelsea Robinson, cello

Third Lesson                    John 1:1-6               Sooyoun Kim (Korean)
Wesley UMC, Hadley, MA

John 1:7-14                                Chelsea Robinson (English)
John 1:1-6
In the beginning there was the Word; the Word was in God’s presence, and the Word was God. The Word was present to God from the beginning. Through the Word all things came into being, and apart from the Word nothing came into being that has come into being. In the Word was life, and that life was humanity’s light — a Light that shines in the darkness, a Light that the darkness has never overtaken.

Then came one named John, sent as an envoy from God, who came as a witness to testify about the Light, so that through his testimony everyone might believe. He himself wasn’t the Light; he only came to testify about the Light--the true Light that illumines all humankind.

John 1:7-14
The Word was coming into the world – was in the world – and though the world was made through the Word, the world didn’t recognize it. Though the Word came to its own realm, the Word’s own people didn’t accept it. Yet any who did accept the Word, who believed in that Name, were empowered to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor urge of flesh nor human will – but born of God. And the Word became flesh and stayed for a little while among us; we saw the Word’s glory – the favor and position a parent gives an only child – filled with grace, filled with truth.

Carol                “O Little Town of Bethlehem”           Sophie Goodenough
North Vienna (ME) UMC
O little town of Bethlehem,            For Christ is born of Mary,
how still we see thee lie!                and, gathered all above
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep        while mortals sleep, the angels keep
the silent stars go by;                their watch of wond’ring love.
yet in thy darkness shineth            O morning stars, together
the everlasting light.                proclaim the holy birth,
The hopes and fears of all the years        and praises sing to God the King
are met in thee tonight.                and peace to man on earth.

O holy Child of Bethlehem,
descend to us, we pray,
cast out our sin and enter in,
be born in us today.
We hear the Christmas angels
the great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us,
our Lord Immanuel!

Fourth Lesson                Isaiah 9: 2-7                    Patricia Parent
Union UMC, Fall River, MA
   (Western Abenaki)
Isaiah 9: 2-7
The people walking in darkness are seeing a brilliant light-upon those who dwell in a land of deep shadows light is shining! God, you have made the nation greater — you have brought them abundant joy! They celebrate in your presence as with the harvest celebrations, or as warriors celebrate when dividing spoils.

For the yoke that burdened them, the weight on their shoulders, the rod of their oppressors — you have shattered it, as you did at the defeat of Midian. For every boot that tramped in battle, every cloak that was dragged through blood, is now used as fuel for the fire.

For a child is born to us, an heir is given us, upon whose shoulders dominion will rest. This One shall be called Wonderful Counselor, the Strength of God, Eternal Protector, Champion of Peace.
This dominion, and this peace, will grow without end, with David’s throne and realm sustained with justice and fairness, now and forever. The zeal of YHWH Omnipotent will accomplish it!”

Carol                “Joy to the World”                    UM Missionaries

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!        Joy to the world, the Savior reigns!
Let earth receive her King;            Let all their songs employ;
let every heart prepare him room,        while fields and floods, rocks, hills, & plains
and heaven and nature sing,            repeat the sounding joy,
and heaven and nature sing,           repeat the sounding joy,
and heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.    repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

Isaiah 9: 2-7                                Julie Kye & Aquinnah Hill (English)

Meditation        “And the Word became flesh and stayed for a little while among us...”

Baby “K” and Miles are growing like weeds. We would love to see them here among us, but we also want them and their families to be safe as well as all those who gather in-person. Jesus, God’s Word, became flesh, just like Miles, Baby “K” and all of us.

Think for a few minutes, what would it mean for us today, in the face of the Climate Crisis, in the face of the seemingly increasing racial divisions and political divisions within our own country, for God’s Word to come into the world and stay with us for a while?

I’m not sure what translation was used by the Conference for today’s reading, but I have to admit, the homey language of “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood,” used by Eugene Peterson in his paraphrase of the Bible, The Message, catches me even more than the language used here.

Jesus was God’s Word in ‘flesh and blood’. How amazing is that? Jesus came to live and walk among us, humanity, and stuck around for a while. He didn’t just pop down from heaven for a day or two, or show up in some spiritual, unrecognizable form, but he was born from a very human mother, was cared for by that mother and his earthly father, Joseph; grew up like any other child of his time; then, when the time was right, he was arrested for his beliefs, and died upon a cruel but simple cross.

This is how humanity treated God’s Word. What if God’s Word were to show up today? What would he/she have to say about the shape of the world? What sort of world were Baby “K” and Miles born into? What will it be like when they become men?

When Jesus comes again in glory, will his reception be any better than the first time he arrived? When he looks around at all the people who proclaim him as Lord and Savior, will he find them working hard to better the world in preparation for his return or, will he find the world further advanced technologically, but not spiritually? Will he find a world where hope and love are flourishing, where children find healthy strong homes that will teach them to honor creation and the One who created or will he find a world tearing itself apart as people compete for resources, as they fight their way into power and privilege, then tread upon the rights of the lowly and disenfranchised?

Jesus was and is the Light of the World, we should be drawn to such light as a moth is drawn to a light in the summertime. Unfortunately, humanity fears the light, fearing they will become burned due to its pureness. God’s Word, spoke words of love and charity. When we live lives full of darkness, not allowing that light to shine in, people are lost and easily lose their way. Let us be a part of the sharing of the light with others, that they might find their way and the world into which children are born, becomes one of welcome and love.

The Word only “stayed among us for a little while,” but the difference he made continues to echo throughout the world today, let us be a part of that echo. Amen.

Carol            “Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella”            Hallelujah Handbell Choir
First UMC, Gilford, NH

Offering                Ashley Johnson,           Director of Connectional Ministries

Doxology            “Angels We Have Heard on High”            Aaron Hyung-Kyu Yi
Grace UMC and Danville UMC (VT), organ

Carol            “Go Tell it on the Mountain”               Korean Caucus Virtual Choir
Refrain:
Go tell it on the mountain,            While shepherds kept their watching
over the hills, and ev'rywhere;            o’er silent flocks by night,
go, tell it on the mountain           behold, throughout the heavens
that Jesus Christ is born.               there shone a holy light. [Refrain]

Down in a lowly manger                While shepherds kept their watching
the humble Christ was born,            o’er silent flocks by night,
and God sent us salvation           behold, throughout the heavens
that blessed Christmas morn. [Refrain]       there shone a holy light. [Refrain]

Benediction                We Hyun Chang, Commonwealth East District Superintendent

Postlude                “Christmas Favorites”                Haven UMC
   String Chamber Orchestra

Blessing        May God bless and keep you on this holy day.

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Meat, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
November’s Collection: $2,857

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

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GRACE UNITED METHODIST
1st Sunday after Christmas, December 26, 2021

“Dwelling"

Prelude

Greetings and Announcements

Prayer for Peace                               Pastor Kelly Harvell

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

We Open the Door    (Threshold Moment)   “Hope Waits for Us at Advent”

Leader: Developed in the 14th century, the word “dwell” became known as a “lingering” or   “abiding.” It had connections to “in-habit”–another word developed at that time. After an Advent/Christmas season of focusing on housing the holy, how will we linger and abide in this habit of hospitality? What habits did you invite into your heart in this season that you desire to take with you into the new year? How might we sustain the dwelling places that feed, house, clothe those who need it most?

Love comes to us at Christmas
Love comes to heal our souls.
Love brings an invitation
that our hearts might be made whole.
As we gather at the stable
in the darkness, glad and grateful
for the sacred in our midst,
for wonder and delight,
Christ is born in us this night.

Reader: Today we light the Christ Candle once again that illumines the Door of Welcome.
May this light shine in our hearts, in our lives, and in our church.
May Christ’s Light awaken us to possibilities and lead us to greater hospitality.
There IS room in this Inn, a House for the Holy.

Love comes to us at Christmas
Love comes to heal our souls.
Love brings an invitation
that our hearts might be made whole.
As we gather at the stable
in the darkness, glad and grateful
for the sacred in our midst,
for wonder and delight,
Christ is born in us this night.

The Peace

The Hope of Christ be with you!
And also with you!

Opening Hymn       “Go, Tell It on the Mountain”        UMH #251

First Reading           Colossians 3:12-17 (NRSV)

As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to [Abba God] through him.

Second Reading       Luke 2:41-52 (CEB)

Each year his parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival. When he was 12 years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to their custom. After the festival was over, they were returning home, but the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem… After three days they found him in the temple. He was sitting among the teachers, listening to them and putting questions to them. Everyone who heard him was amazed by his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were shocked.

His mother said, “Child, why have you treated us like this? Listen! Your father and I have been worried. We’ve been looking for you!” Jesus replied, “Why were you looking for me? Didn’t you know that it was necessary for me to be in my Father’s house?” But they didn’t understand what he said to them. Jesus went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. His mother cherished every word in her heart. Jesus matured in wisdom and years, and in favor with God and with people.

Sermon

The Christmas “pajamas” have now been opened and worn. The anticipation is over, presents unwrapped and family is scattering back to their homes once more. Christmas parties are over and New Year parties are just around the corner. Many adults are feeling fatigued by all the sugar charged energy of the children and are looking forward to sending them back to school so the adults can rest. Lines at stores are jammed with people returning gifts that don’t fit, whether it is the sweater grandmother bought that might have fit 3 years ago or the white elephant Aunt Susie bought for her minimalist nephew to put on his non-existent mantle in his third-floor walk-up efficiency apartment. In the minds of many people, Christmas is over, but for Christians, this is just the second day, the first Sunday, of the Christmas season. Yes, Christmas is not over yet, we can still sing carols and wish one another “Merry Christmas.” Let us then linger in this season of joy and celebration.

It can be disconcerting to jump from the birth of a baby to that time when the baby is now a young man, daily showing signs of more and more independent thinking, maybe some wisdom and perhaps a few signs of rebelliousness. I’m sure some parents feel like their own baby is growing up too fast, that though 12 or so years have passed, the child was just born yesterday. Mary and Joseph appear to be dealing with some of this in our reading from the Gospel According to Luke. Jesus, now about 12 years old and considered an adult, is stepping out on his own, showing wisdom beyond his years in his interaction with the Temple teachers. The problem is, Jesus stayed behind without telling his family what he was doing, causing distraction and concern for his parents.

As Jesus watches us from on high, from his position at God’s right hand, how is he seeing us? Are we causing distraction and concern or is he seeing how we approach the world with wisdom that guides us into acts of welcoming those who are wandering, lost and alone? Jesus, our brother, watches us like an older brother, encouraging us to act with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience.

During Advent, we talked about “Housing the Holy,” how we might help those who are considered the least to feel welcomed into the Inn, how we are called to be a part of helping God’s reign to come to reality in the here and now rather than some eschatological future. In the midst of watching a little TV though, I heard something in an advertisement that not only took me back to junior high school, but reminded me that sometimes, with all our fancy words and theological reflections, pastors should listen to a little music that can preach for us. It isn’t a Christmas carol, but a once popular song written by Glen Campbell.

If you see your brother standing by the road
With a heavy load from the seeds he sowed
And if you see your sister falling by the way
Just stop and say, "You're going the wrong way"

You've got to try a little kindness
Yes, show a little kindness
Just shine your light for everyone to see
And if you try a little kindness
Then you'll overlook the blindness
Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets

Don't walk around the down and out
Lend a helping hand instead of doubt
And the kindness that you show every day
Will help someone along their way

You got to try a little kindness
Yes, show a little kindness
Just shine your light for everyone to see
And if you try a little kindness
Then you'll overlook the blindness
Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets

You got to try a little kindness
Yes, show a little kindness
Just shine your light for everyone to see
And if you try a little kindness
Then you'll overlook the blindness
Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets
Glen Campbell – “Try a Little Kindness”

The letter to the Colossians tells us and Glen Campbell reminds us, when we see someone that’s having a difficult time, we just need to “try a little kindness,” but sometimes we need to “overlook the blindness of the narrow-minded people.”

How do we keep the idea of “Housing the Holy” in our hearts all year around, when life seems to keep throwing curve balls at us? How do we welcome strangers in when we aren’t sure we should meet together due to the seemingly never-ending pandemic? How do we deal with those in our community who would stand against us due to our political leanings or whatever issue with which we differ from them?

When we allow the Holy One space in our hearts, when we are the willing hosts of the Holy One, we gain the strength to stand against those who cast us in negative light. When we learn to forgive those we deem “narrow minded,” instead, trying to find common ground concerning other issues, then using those places of common thought as a jumping off spot to a new relationship, one which hears the anger, pain, hurt, fear or other emotion behind the negative actions without judging, but instead loving despite the challenges, we can change the dynamics of the relationship.

When we show a little kindness to those with whom we differ, we can change the dynamic from one of altercation to one where we find ways to work together despite our differences.

Remember the sweater that doesn’t fit? The white elephant for which there is no place for it to go? Perhaps we should exchange them for love. In the letter to the Colossians, we are told to clothe ourselves in love. When we are clothed in love, we take off the rose-colored glasses we have been wearing, replacing them with vision that sees through the eyes of God. God’s vision sees the pain and suffering and cries out to change lives through the sharing of love in tangible ways. When we share a little kindness, we begin the process of transformation that helps put an end to the suffering and brings hope to lives each and every day. May this Christmas season live in our hearts and minds 365 days a year and may we be a part of God’s in-breaking reign all the days of our lives. Amen.

Prayers of the People

Make of my heart a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for hope to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our hearts to honesty before God
about what we’ve done and left undone that created less peace in a hurting world.
Let us breathe out this regret…
and breathe in the life-giving, for-giving Spirit of God…
and out again with the Peace of Christ...

Make of my life a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for hope to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our lives to the call of the Spirit,
   inviting us to become more than we can ask or imagine.
Let us breathe out our fear…
   and breathe in the courage of the Spirit of God…
and out again, with the Peace of Christ…

Make of our church a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for hope to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of this church, filling it with
the compassion of Christ for all those who are struggling.
We remember and pray for…

… those who are suffering economic hardship, and insecurity in basic needs;
may abundance be shared.

… those who are suffering mentally, finding it difficult to cope;
may paths open and hope return.

… those who are suffering illness or injury;
may healing abound.

…. those who are suffering loneliness and isolation;
may companionship and solace arrive.

… those who are suffering discrimination, fear and violence;
may they know respect, respite, and safety.

In this moment we pause to give thanks to God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, for the gifts with which we have been blessed.

May the Advent of Compassion be born in us,
reside within us,
move outward from us,
to meet the needs of the world,
making a house for the Holy that is each and every child of God.

We pray this in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray:

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

A Story of Innkeeping: Offering

Leader: This is the final service in our series, “The Inn: Housing the Holy.”  Now is our chance to talk about ways we might increase the hospitality ministries of our congregation.  Hospitality welcomes people into not only worship services, but into the life of the congregation.  This is our chance to dream, to be like children with visions of “sugarplums” dancing in our heads.  Our “sugarplums” will this year be visions of what we as a congregation might do to invite others to become a part of our community as we open ourselves to “Housing the Holy.”  I invite you therefore to take a moment for quiet dreaming, then share those dreams, whether lifting them aloud in worship or sharing them in written form with the church office.  Remember, dreams often seem unattainable.  On Christmas Eve I shared my love of the movie, “Miracle on 34TH Street.”  Susan’s dream seemed very farfetched, unattainable for a young girl, a house with a yard and a swing.  Even if your dream seems farfetched, unattainable due to lack of funds or people, I invite you to dream and to share that dream.  Who knows, when the Hebrews were stuck between the Egyptians and the Sea, God opened a safe, dry path for them to crossover, drowning their enemies behind them.  Perhaps God will bless your dream and bring it to fruition.  What is your dream?

Closing Carol

Leader: We end our Advent/Christmas worship series with one last Christmas carol, and this one is truly about Christmas Day. “Good Christian Friends, Rejoice” is a medieval carol that would have been used for folk dancing rather than for Mass–a more boisterous praise of the newborn child than was permitted in worship at that time. It was written in Latin and German and the original Latin reveals the heart of this song:

“In sweet jubilation
Now sing and be joyful!
The joy of our hearts
Lies in a manger
And shine like the sun
In the lap of his mother
Alpha and Omega (beginning and end)!”

Let us remember that the joy of our hearts lies in the simplest of mangers. May our church be a “lap of the mother” for those who need it most.

“Good Christian Friends, Rejoice”           UMH 224

Benediction

May God’s Door of Welcome
swing open in your heart and in your life.

May Christ’s humble first dwelling
remind you of the plenty you already know.

And may the Spirit lead you into
more possibility and hospitality than you can imagine,
making room in The Inn for all.

May it be so for you.
May it be so for us.
May it be so for this church.
Amen.

Postlude

Unless otherwise indicated, liturgy by Marcia McFee, Worship Design Studios © worshipdesignstudio.com/theinn
”Go, Tell It on the Mountain” Words Afro-American spiritual; adapt. by John W. Work, Jr., 1907; Music Afro-American spiritual; adapt. and arr. By William Farley Smith, 1986; Tune TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN; Words ; CCLI #27051Public Domain, Music © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; Used with permission
“Good Christian Friends, Rejoice” Words 14th cent. Latin; trans. by John Mason Neale, 1855, Music German Melody; harm. by Gary Alan Smith, 1988; Tune: IN DULCI JUBILO; Words in the Public Domain; Music tune in the Public Domain, harm. © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; CCLI#1214849; Used with permission.
“Hope Waits” and “Make of My Heart a Stable” by Amanda Udis-Kessler, used with permission.
CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Vigil for the homeless at Deny Park (Gazebo), December 21, 2021 from 4:30 to 5:00.

Blue Christmas Service, Tuesday, December 21 at 6:30, zoom and in-person service

Christmas Eve Service, December 24, 2021 at 5:30, in-person and 7:00 in-person and zoom service.

Lay Servant Courses: Rev. Ralph Howe (First UMC Brattleboro) will be facilitating the Basic Lay Servant Course in Brattleboro on Sundays, January 30, 12:30 – 5:30, and February 6, 12:30 – 5:30. Zoom will be available for hybrid participation. To register, please complete the registration form and return it with $15 (check payable to GMLSM) to Dawn Hill-Fleury (address is on the form). Book. The Seacoast Lay Servant Ministries is offering the Basic Lay Servant course and the advanced courses, Leading Public Worship and Discover Your Spiritual Gifts, in January 2022 via Zoom. Click here for details and the registration link.

Please return your pledge cards as soon as possible so we can complete financial planning for next year. If you need another card, please contact the church office.

Sign up for items to bring/drop off for the Cleaning Buckets and Hygiene kits. There is a plastic tub with a black lid on the parsonage porch that items may be left in.

NE CORR offers “New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism”
The New England Conference Commission on Religion and Race is offering a five-week course titled New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism beginning March 3, 2022. This workshop is designed for people who understand that racism is a deeply embedded problem in our society. There is an application process to join the course, application deadline is Feb. 3, 2022.

Go Green, Save Money, Save the Earth
This week features a new occasional blog by retired elder Kim Hornung-Marcy, who shares information and tips based on her philosophy that going green saves money over the long haul and will help us save the earth.

Donations will support local churches and global missions
In his Thanksgiving message, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar asked people to consider donating the cost of one cup of coffee/tea/soda or meal each day from Thanksgiving to Christmas with the proceeds to be shared equally by your local church and world missions.

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Meat, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
November’s Collection: $2,857

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST
Christmas Eve 2021

“The Inn”

Prelude

Greetings and Announcements

Prayer for Peace                                   Pastor Kelly Harvell

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

We Open the Door    (Threshold Moment)   “Hope Waits for Us at Advent”

Leader: All through the season of Advent as we prepared for Christmas, we’ve been exploring how we as a church can “make more room in the inn,” becoming more hospitable to the needs of our community. On this Christmas Eve, we declare that The Inn is open for the business of compassion with room enough for all! The long-awaited Messiah has been born and on him the light shines. We have only to open the doors of our lives and say “welcome.” Our Advent journey has led us to this moment when the light shining through the closed doors of life becomes an open door to new possibilities, new relationships. What a poignant moment for us this year as the light–the hope, peace, joy and love–multiplies from one illuminated heart and hand to another.

Love comes to us at Christmas
Love comes to heal our souls.
Love brings an invitation
that our hearts might be made whole.
As we gather at the stable
in the darkness, glad and grateful
for the sacred in our midst,
for wonder and delight,
Christ is born in us this night.

Reader: Tonight we offer the Lights of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love to illumine the Door of Welcome.
And we add the brightest light of all… the Light of the Newborn Jesus. It shines bright like the star that rose over Bethlehem. May this light also shine in our hearts, in our lives, and in our church.
May this light awaken us to possibilities and lead us to greater hospitality. There IS room in this Inn, a House for the Holy.

Love comes to us at Christmas
Love comes to heal our souls.
Love brings an invitation
that our hearts might be made whole.
As we gather at the stable
in the darkness, glad and grateful
for the sacred in our midst,
for wonder and delight,
Christ is born in us this night.

The Peace

The Light of Christ be with you!
And also with you!

Opening Hymn               “Joy to the World”            UMH #246

First Reading               The Prophecy               Isaiah 9:2-7 (NRSV)

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness on them light has shined. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

Second Reading               The Story           Luke 2: 1-7 (NRSV)

In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

Sermon

It is hard for me to read the passage from Isaiah without my mind going into song as I recall singing the Christmas portion of Handel’s great oratorio, The Messiah when I was a teenager. We often find power in music. Methodists are known for singing our theology. Many of us learned our ABCs not from spoken repetition, but from singing them to the tune of Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. As we come into our time of worship tonight; as we come in from the cold of another Vermont winter’s night, our hearts are waiting to be warmed, to sing the songs we have sung for so many years; our ears are twitching as they listen for familiar strains filling the air, yet, as we gather, we wonder, will we be able to sing? Will COVID restrictions silence the music that so fills our hearts as it silenced us and kept us apart last year?

As I write this, the plan is to sing, but the Administrative Council and I are constantly listening to the science and the numbers, staying open to change in order to reduce the risks of spreading the virus to people who may be more vulnerable due to many situations.

Children are still anxiously shaking packages and wondering, will Santa come this year or is he too afraid of the virus to come into our homes? Into this time of anxiety and anxious waiting and watching, the baby seeks to be born in our hearts once more. The child whose name was to be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, waits to bring peace into our hearts once more; to bring hope into our lives; to replace our anxiety with love and our.sorrow with joy.

In order for this to happen, we must believe. One of my favorite movies, often shown around this time of year is, Miracle on 34TH Street, the 1947 edition with Maureen O’Hara and Natalie Wood. As Susan Walker (a young Natalie Wood) struggles to accept that the “nice old man” that has come into her and her mother’s lives is really Santa, despite having been taught for her whole life that Santa doesn’t exist, she repeats over and over to herself, “I believe. I believe.” trying to convince herself that Chris is truly Kris Kringle, Santa Claus.

I hope we don’t need to repeat over and over to ourselves, “I believe. I believe.” Trying to convince ourselves that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. I hope we instead are seeking ways to open our hearts so that, as we “house the Holy,” the light that has come into the world will shine more brightly. For tonight, we are invited to “house the Holy,” to allow our hearts to become the inn in which the new baby is born. At the birth of Jesus light came to illumine the darkness of a world lost in sin. That light shines on us this night, let that light enter in so that it can shine out again, lighting the world in a future filled with the hope born that night so long ago.

Jesus is born, Hallelujah!

Prayers of the People

Make of my heart a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for hope to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our hearts to honesty before God
about what we’ve done and left undone that created less peace in a hurting world.
Let us breathe out this regret…
and breathe in the life-giving, for-giving Spirit of God…
and out again with the Peace of Christ…

Make of my life a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for hope to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our lives to the call of the Spirit,
inviting us to become more than we can ask or imagine.
Let us breathe out our fear …
and breathe in the courage of the Spirit of God…
and out again, with the Peace of Christ….

Make of our church a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for hope to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of this church, filling it with
the compassion of Christ for all those who are struggling.
We remember and pray for…

… those who are suffering economic hardship, and insecurity in basic needs;
may abundance be shared.

… those who are suffering mentally, finding it difficult to cope;
may paths open and hope return.

… those who are suffering illness or injury;
may healing abound.

…. those who are suffering loneliness and isolation;
may companionship and solace arrive.

… those who are suffering discrimination, fear and violence;
may they know respect, respite, and safety.

In this moment we pause to give thanks to God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, for the gifts with which we have been blessed.

May the Advent of Compassion be born in us,
reside within us,
move outward from us,
to meet the needs of the world,
making a house for the Holy that is each and every child of God.

We pray this in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray:

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Love Feast

“Comfort Food: A Feast of Love”
When we “break bread” together as a church in our worship, we remember that Jesus invited folks to his table as part of his ministry, not just at the Last Supper. So we wanted to create a way for all of us to break bread together with whatever we have at our homes. Indeed, what we’ve asked you to do is to prepare your favorite “comfort food!”

Jesus used the parable of a great banquet to which all people are invited in order to talk about what the “kin-dom” of God, the family of God, looks like. He said, “Go to the highways and back alleys and urge people to come in so that my house will be filled.” He often invited the most unlikely guests to his meal-times, confounding the disciples. In this way, he was encouraging a deep love and connection beyond social norms. He knew that we humans need connection and inclusion. Jesus comforts us, saying “you have a place at the table” and Jesus challenges us to make sure we are doing the same–that all people know they are welcome in our hearts, in our homes, in our churches–even if we can’t physically be with each other right now.

It is difficult in this moment not to be near some of the people we love and might be worried about. Take a moment and say out loud the names of people you wish were right there next to you at your table today.

Jesus is no longer physically on earth, yet every time we gather around a table and we call him to mind, he is present with us in Spirit. And so too, our loved ones are with us. Let this be a comfort to us.

We also want to call to mind, the people we cannot name, whose names we do not know. But we know they need our prayers and God’s comfort.

I invite you to take a deep breath on behalf of all those we do not know and cannot call by name. As we do so, we know that God knows who needs our prayers and the Spirit, Breath of God, is blowing from within us outward as a Spirit of Compassion and Presence

Blessings at the table are part of our Judeo-Christian heritage. Indeed, Jesus adapted his Jewish ritual blessing spoken before and after meals. He asked us to remember him whenever we break bread and raise a cup in thanksgiving. This is why we call our communion prayers the “Great Thanksgiving.” In this feast of love and comfort, we can call to mind things for which we are deeply grateful. I invite you to speak aloud a couple of things that you are grateful for in this moment.

And so I invite you to raise a plate of “something” on your table, or a glass of whatever you are drinking,
and let us bless it in this way.

Holy Comforter
   Holy Comforter [continue to repeat the next lines in this way]
We gather in your name…
invited by Jesus…
bound together with your Spirit…
in union with each other…

Feed our bodies and our spirits…
with your comforting presence…
so that we might be your comfort to others…

Bless this food…
and break open our hearts…
Bless this drink…
and pour out your love…
Amen.

As you pass and fill your plates, getting ready to continue to eat your comfort food following this service, I invite you to imagine what extravagant love looks like as you reach across the social distance to loved ones, to friends, and even acquaintances or strangers.

And now may you shelter not only in place, but in peace. May the peace and comfort of Christ be present with you now and forevermore. Amen.

Closing Carol

Leader: Leader: Friends, this is the moment we’ve been waiting for. This is the moment we missed so much last year. Yes, we found ways to “pass the light” from one to another across the distance, knowing that nothing could extinguish the light of God in this world, knowing that Christ was with us and will always be. But oh, how good it is to be in this Holy House together. And for those who are watching online, we feel you, we know you are there, we are so glad that you join us in this moment with a candle lit at your own holy house. The Spirit makes it possible for us to be connected, as we found out last year. Let us sing this beloved song, Silent Night, that has been present through two centuries of ups and downs, steadfast in its message that the light still shines.

”Silent Night”                       UMH #239

Leader: I invite you to turn and face the doors of this church for the Benediction before extinguishing your light. As you turn, see the lighted faces of this gathered community and know that you belong in this family of love.

Benediction

As you go out into the world this night…

May God’s Door of Welcome
swing open in your heart and in your life.

May Christ’s humble first dwelling
remind you of the plenty you already know.

And may the Spirit lead you into
more possibility and hospitality than you can imagine,
making room in The Inn for all.

May it be so for you.
May it be so for us.
May it be so for this church.
Amen.

Postlude

Unless otherwise indicated, liturgy by Marcia McFee, Worship Design Studios © worshipdesignstudio.com/theinn
“Comfort Food, A Feast of Love” by Marcia McFee, Worship Design Studios © worshipdesignstudio.com
”Joy to the World” Words Isaac Watts, 1719 (Ps 98:4-9); Music Arr. From G. F. Handel, 1741, by Lowell Mason, 1848; Tune ANTIOCH; Words and Music in the Public Domain; CCLI # 24016
“Silent Night” Words by Joseph Mohr, 1818, alt.; sts. 1,2,3 trans. by John F. Young, st. 4 trans. anon. (Lk. 2:6-20); Music by Franz Gruber, 1818; Tune: STILLE NACHT; Words & Music in the Public Domain; CCLI#27862; Used with permission.
“Hope Waits” and “Make of My Heart a Stable” by Amanda Udis-Kessler, used with permission.
CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Vigil for the homeless at Deny Park (Gazebo), December 21, 2021 from 4:30 to 5:00.

Blue Christmas Service, Tuesday, December 21 at 6:30, zoom and in-person service

Christmas Eve Service, December 24, 2021 at 5:30, in-person and 7:00 in-person and zoom service.

Lay Servant Courses: Rev. Ralph Howe (First UMC Brattleboro) will be facilitating the Basic Lay Servant Course in Brattleboro on Sundays, January 30, 12:30 – 5:30, and February 6, 12:30 – 5:30. Zoom will be available for hybrid participation. To register, please complete the registration form and return it with $15 (check payable to GMLSM) to Dawn Hill-Fleury (address is on the form). Order Participants Book.The Seacoast Lay Servant Ministries is offering the Basic Lay Servant course and the advanced courses, Leading Public Worship and Discover Your Spiritual Gifts, in January 2022 via Zoom. Click here for details and the registration link.

Please return your pledge cards as soon as possible so we can complete financial planning for next year. If you need another card, please contact the church office.

Sign up for items to bring/drop off for the Cleaning Buckets and Hygiene kits. There is a plastic tub with a black lid on the parsonage porch that items may be left in.

NE CORR offers “New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism”
The New England Conference Commission on Religion and Race is offering a five-week course titled New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism beginning March 3, 2022. This workshop is designed for people who understand that racism is a deeply embedded problem in our society. There is an application process to join the course, application deadline is Feb. 3, 2022.

Go Green, Save Money, Save the Earth
This week features a new occasional blog by retired elder Kim Hornung-Marcy, who shares information and tips based on her philosophy that going green saves money over the long haul and will help us save the earth.

Donations will support local churches and global missions
In his Thanksgiving message, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar asked people to consider donating the cost of one cup of coffee/tea/soda or meal each day from Thanksgiving to Christmas with the proceeds to be shared equally by your local church and world missions.

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Meat, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
November’s Collection: $2,857

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

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GRACE UNITED METHODIST
Blue Christmas
December 21, 2021, 6:30 p.m.

For some, Christmas is a mixed blessing, evoking grief over the death of loved ones, or other sorrows. A Blue Christmas service is a serve of hope and healing that is more quiet and reflective than exuberant. It may speak not only to those who bear personal sorrows but also those who lament injustice and broken relationships in their communities or the world.

Opening Prayer
Gracious God, Creator of all, you who make the snow of winter and the darkness of night, the day is yours, and also the night; summer and winter are yours.
      The darkness is yours, and in it we seek your blessing.
Christ, Companion of all who sit in darkness, you came to us on that night long ago, and warmed our night with your presence.
      In the darkness of this night we wait for your coming again.
Holy Spirit, we open our hearts to your light, and our lives to your presence.
      O Come, O come! God, be with us, dwell in our hearts,
      and let your dawn break upon us, and on all who dwell in darkness. Amen.

Psalm 13 (MSG)
Long enough, God - you've ignored me long enough. I've looked at the back of your head. Long enough I've carried this ton of trouble, lived with a stomach full of pain. Long enough my arrogant enemies have looked down their noses at me. Take a good look at me, God, my God; I want to look life in the eye, so no enemy can get the best of me or laugh when I fall on my face. I've thrown myself headlong into your arms - I'm celebrating your rescue. I'm singing at the top of my lungs, I'm so full of answered prayers.

Listening Prayer
Creator God, from the beginning of time, when only chaos and darkness existed, you have been with us. In the fullness of time, you sent your light into the world as Christ, to bless our days and our nights, our joys and our sorrows, our living and our dying. Come now, enter into our hearts, anoint us with your Spirit, and comfort us with your healing love. Amen.

Bidding Prayer
Loving God, we thank you for the many blessings you have given us. We remember with grateful hearts our loved ones, and all who have blessed us through our years.
     God of grace, we give you thanks.
We hold in your light what is no longer ours: loves and dreams that have passed, friends and hopes that have died. We hold in your light our struggles, our darkness, our emptiness.
     God of grace, be with us in the night.
O come to us, God, and walk with us. Grant us your consolation, strength and renewal. Enter into the rough stable of our lives so that here, by your presence, there is healing, and hope, and joy.
    God of grace, grant us light.
Gentle God, for all who suffer we ask your blessing. For all who are lonely we ask your presence. For all who struggle we ask your Spirit. Come to us, receive our wounds, dwell with us, and strengthen us by your spirit.
     God of grace, grant us your peace.
God of mercy, we mourn the world’s injustice, and pray in hope. Bless those who suffer oppression. Bless those who work for justice. Bless us, that with hope and courage we may shine with your light even in the darkest night.
     God of grace, grant us your hope.
Spirit of healing, fill us with your grace that we may shine with your light in the darkness, that we may bear your healing to others, that we may be living signs of your coming.
    God of grace, grant us your peace. Amen.

Isaiah 40:1-11 (MSG)
"Comfort, oh comfort my people," says your God. "Speak softly and tenderly to Jerusalem, but also make it very clear That she has served her sentence, that her sin is taken care of - forgiven! She's been punished enough and more than enough, and now it's over and done with."

Thunder in the desert! "Prepare for God's arrival! Make the road straight and smooth, a highway fit for our God. Fill in the valleys, level off the hills, Smooth out the ruts, clear out the rocks. Then God's bright glory will shine and everyone will see it. Yes. Just as God has said."

A voice says, "Shout!" I said, "What shall I shout?" "These people are nothing but grass, their love fragile as wildflowers. The grass withers, the wildflowers fade, if God so much as puffs on them. Aren't these people just so much grass? True, the grass withers and the wildflowers fade, but our God's Word stands firm and forever."

Climb a high mountain, Zion. You're the preacher of good news. Raise your voice. Make it good and loud, Jerusalem. You're the preacher of good news. Speak loud and clear. Don't be timid! Tell the cities of Judah, "Look! Your God!" Look at him! God, the Master, comes in power, ready to go into action. He is going to pay back his enemies and reward those who have loved him. Like a shepherd, he will care for his flock, gathering the lambs in his arms, hugging them as he carries them, leading the nursing ewes to good pasture. The Creator of All You Can See or Imagine.

A Litany of Remembrance
Leader: As we near the longest night of the year, we light this advent candle of hope. We pray for all those who suffer—mentally, physically, emotionally, and ask your blessing upon them. Open our eyes to those who are lonely, afraid, and forgotten, that we might be to them a comforting and hopeful presence.
All: As the candle shines through darkness,
may we be your light to those in need of hope.
       Response— O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, verse 1

As we light this advent candle of love, we remember with grateful hearts all those who have blessed our lives with love. We pray for our loved ones who are no longer here with us. We remember their names, their voices, their lives. God, may your eternal light surround them.
As the candle shines through darkness,
may we be your light to those in need of love.
       Response— O Come, Come, Emmanuel, verse 2
As we remember that dawn defeats darkness, God, we light this advent candle of joy. As we experience times of loss—the loss of our health, our jobs, our relationships, our hopes and dreams, God promises to be with us and to lead us into a deeper joy.
As the candle shines through darkness,
may we be your light to those in need of joy.
       Response— O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, verse 3
Though we live in times of conflict and division, we light this advent candle of peace. In a world of unspeakable violence, you came to us as a baby—vulnerable, precious, and pure, offering to us the gift of your love. May your peace, which surpasses all human understanding, fill our hearts, and heal our world.
As the candle shines through darkness,
may we be your light to a world in need of peace.
       Response— O Come, O Come, Emmanuel ,verse 4

Silence…

Psalm Meditation
(Psalm 85, paraphrased)

Leader: God of life, the land has blossomed with your favor.
You have restored your people;
you have forgiven us,
all of our brokenness a thing of the past.
In our suffering there was your grace,
your fierce protection.
     All: We listen for your voice, O God,
     for your compassion draws near. …
Restore us again, O God of our salvation.
Heal our fear of you.
How long will we go on distrusting of you,
keeping our distance for generations?
Awaken us from our bad dreams
and renew our joy.
Show us your steadfast love,
and grant us whole and vibrant life.
     We listen for your voice, O God,
     for your compassion draws near. …
We listen for your voice,
for you speak peace.
We turn to you in our hearts.
Even in the darkness, unseen, you are near.
     We listen for your voice, O God,
     for your compassion draws near. …
Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;
justice and peace will kiss each other.
Faithfulness will spring up like green plants;
solidarity with one another
will spread over us like the sky.
God will give what is good,
and the earth bloom with joy.
Compassion will walk through the world
and make a way for God to enter.
     We listen for your voice, O God,
     for your compassion draws near. …

Revelation 21:1-4 (MSG)
I saw Heaven and earth new-created. Gone the first Heaven, gone the first earth, gone the sea. I saw Holy Jerusalem, new-created, descending resplendent out of Heaven, as ready for God as a bride for her husband. I heard a voice thunder from the Throne: "Look! Look! God has moved into the neighborhood, making his home with men and women! They're his people, he's their God. He'll wipe every tear from their eyes. Death is gone for good - tears gone, crying gone, pain gone - all the first order of things gone."

Closing Song

Come Again, Poor Jesus
(Tune: In the Bleak Midwinter)
When our souls are wintry, when our hearts are cold,
come to us, dear Jesus, as you did of old.
When our hearts, unsheltered, feel the winds above,
come to us and warm us with your gentle love.
In the dark we wander, searching for our way,
waiting, lost, and longing for the light of day.
Dawn upon your children; fold us in your grace.
Child, be born among us. Show to us your face.
Shepherds on the hillside, poor, without a friend,
kept their watch in silence, vigil without end.
But then in the darkness, angels brought the word:
“God has not forgotten, and your prayers are heard.”
To the simple, poor ones, Jesus came that night.
Come again, poor Jesus. Bless us with your light.
Lamb of God, be with us in our joy and pain,
and companion us, Love, to new life again.

Liturgy by Rev. Steve Garnaas-Holmes, used with permission.
MSG – All Scripture passages from, THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language, copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson.
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel – Words: 9th cent. Latin; trans. st. 1,3, The Hymnal, 1940; st. 2, Henry Sloane Coffin, 1916; st 4, Laurence Hull Stookey, © 1986, 1940, 1943, 1981, 1989 The United Methodist Publishing; Music 15th cent. French; arr. And harm. by Thomas Helmore, 1864; Tune: VENI EMMANUEL, Music in the Public Domain; CCLI # 3060194; Used with permission.
Come Again, Poor Jesus Words: Rev. Steve Garnaas-Holmes, Used with permission. Music: Gustav Holst, 1906; Tune: CRANHAM (In the Bleak Midwinter), in the Public Domain; CCLI #294736. Used with permission.

CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: # 20810329

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GRACE UNITED METHODIST
4TH Sunday of Advent, December 19, 2021

“A Room with a View (Love)”

Prelude

Greetings and Announcements

Prayer for Peace                                   Pastor Kelly Harvell

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

We Open the Door    (Threshold Moment)   “Hope Waits for Us at Advent”

Leader: This has been an Advent season of prophets: Jeremiah, Baruch, Isaiah, Micah. And now the prophet is Mary–the woman who was the original house for the holy. She was “the inn,” her womb gestating love for the world. With all her heart, she proclaims that the lowly are lifted, the hungry are fed, mercy reigns. Like Mary, we must envision, must see, must prophesy and act on that vision for the world that God continues to call us to co-create. What is the view from the room that God has prepared?

Love waits for us at Advent
Love waits for us to care.
Love waits for our compassion
freely offered, freely shared.
In this time of preparation
for the work of co-creation,
for the birthing of a world
where faith shapes all we do.
Love is born in us anew!

Reader: Today we offer the Light of Love to illumine the Door of Welcome.
May this light shine in our hearts, in our lives, and in our church.
May Love awaken us to possibilities and lead us to greater hospitality.
There IS room in this Inn, a House for the Holy.

Love waits for us at Advent
Love waits for us to care.
Love waits for our compassion
freely offered, freely shared.
In this time of preparation
for the work of co-creation,
for the birthing of a world
where faith shapes all we do.
Love is born in us anew!

The Peace

The Peace of Christ be with you!
And also with you!

Opening Hymn               “Tell Out, My Soul”                    UMH #200

First Reading           Micah 5:2-5a (CEB)

As for you, Bethlehem of Ephrathah,
    though you are the least significant of Judah’s forces,
        one who is to be a ruler in Israel on my behalf will come out from you.
    His origin is from remote times, from ancient days.
Therefore, he will give them up
        until the time when she who is in labor gives birth.
        The rest of his kin will return to the people of Israel.
He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord,
        in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.
        They will dwell secure,
        because he will surely become great throughout the earth;
        he will become one of peace.

Second Reading       Luke 1: 46-55

Mary got up and hurried to a city in the Judean highlands. She entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. With a loud voice she blurted out, “God has blessed you above all women, and he has blessed the child you carry. Why do I have this honor, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. Happy is she who believed that the Lord would fulfill the promises he made to her.”

Mary said,
“With all my heart I glorify the Lord!
    In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my savior.
He has looked with favor on the low status of his servant.
    Look! From now on, everyone will consider me highly favored
        because the mighty one has done great things for me.
Holy is his name.
    He shows mercy to everyone,
        from one generation to the next,
        who honors him as God.
He has shown strength with his arm.
    He has scattered those with arrogant thoughts and proud inclinations.
    He has pulled the powerful down from their thrones
        and lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things
    and sent the rich away empty-handed.
He has come to the aid of his servant Israel,
        remembering his mercy,
    just as he promised to our ancestors,
        to Abraham and to Abraham’s descendants forever.”

Sermon
I give thanks! A few months ago, I was hospitalized several times over a short period of time. A couple of those times I was at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, and, believe it or not, in the same room and initially the second time, the same side of the room. As I lay in my bed, I had a wonderful view of a curtain, the door to the hall, a door to a closet, a computer and the bathroom. It was a very small area, hardly room for the “recliner” for me to sit in and the bedside cabinet. I wondered what the other side of the room held, particularly after a family meeting with the patient and others on the other side of “the curtain.” The second time I was admitted to the room, as soon as the patient occupying the space on the other side of “the curtain” departed, the staff arranged for me to be moved to the other side. There was a window, a closet and room for more than a chair or two. The stark difference in the two sides of the room were brought to mind by the title for this week, “A Room with a View.” The change in view helped with the way I felt, with my attitude about all that was going on with my body and with how I was dealing with once more being in the hospital.

Have you ever noticed how one’s view of a situation affects their attitude, their demeanor, their very response to a situation? When I was “stuck” on the side of the room with a view of the bathroom, I was frustrated, had a very negative view of how I was doing and all in all felt pretty blue. While the move to the other side didn’t erase my frustration or my total understanding of what was going on, some of the negative feelings, the “blues” began to disappear.

As we listen to “Mary’s Song,” sometimes called, “The Magnificat” as she was ‘magnifying God,’ we sometimes lose sight of her circumstances. Here is a young woman, pregnant outside wedlock, singing praises to God for the gift of her pregnancy with God’s child, yet, as she sings, it is not all pretty and comfortable. Mary sings of the child’s future, a future that includes the removing of those comfortable in positions of power from those positions, the feeding of the poor while those who are rich are turned away. As we heard at the beginning of the service, Mary was prophesying about the child growing in her womb. She spoke of one who had a different view of the world, a view that brought hope to those who had no hope, who could only see “the curtain” and not the window into the world. She spoke of one who would love those who no one else seemed capable of loving.

What is our own personal view, our vision of who we, as Grace United Methodist Church, as followers of that baby born so long ago, are? Who are we and what is God calling us to be in a world where so many are losing hope due to economic insecurities made worse by the pandemic? How is God calling us to change in order to bring about God’s plan for the future? When we live out Jesus’ Gospel of Love, we must remember, “We love because [God] first loved us.” (1 John 4:19, NIV). We love because we know that we are loved. We are also reminded in First John, “Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” (1John 4:7b-8, NIV)

Jesus came into the world that we might know God through knowing Jesus and learning of God’s love for us through him. If we have been loved, then how do we show others in a way that they might know of God’s love?

Recently, the Finance Committee voted that $200 of this year’s mission outreach would be to an Afghani family that has recently moved into Lyme. This family, coming from a country facing increasing difficulties with the pull-out of US forces, should encounter the love that God has for God’s people as they try to assimilate into life in a small New England community. Their faith background may or may not be Christian, in fact is probably Muslim, yet, they are still children of the same God, calling God by another name, Allah, does not change that. Though they see Jesus as only a prophet, they believe he was one of the great prophets and teachers, and as such, we should welcome them into the community with compassion rather than hesitancy and distrust. Who knows, by being the feet and hands of Jesus, we may also become Jesus’ voice to these people, not in an overt, proselytizing manner, but in a manner that shares Jesus’ love in tangible ways.

The remaining few dollars of our mission funds will go to the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund. This fund is used locally to help those that are struggling to buy gas so they can get to work, move from temporary housing for the homeless into an apartment, help with rent, and other needs that seem out of reach for so many.

]Sometimes we need a “room with a view,” a change in view, so we can see the needs around us and see how we are or how we may impact those needs in a positive manner. Sometimes that “room with a view” is as much about a vision for the future as it is about what has happened in the past.

As I moved from the bed behind the curtain to the one closer to the window, it had subtle effects on my vision for the future. It helped me to be less focused on what was wrong and helped me be more thankful for what I had.

How might we help others to have a change of view, a change of vision, that helps them have hope for the future? What do we need so that we too might have that change in vision, that hope for the future in ourselves?

Mary carried a baby in her womb, praising God despite the troubles her pregnancy likely brought for her. We too should look to Jesus as a harbinger of hope as well as a challenge to our comfortable lifestyles. Let us be open each and every day to his guidance. Amen.

Prayers of the People

Make of my heart a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for love to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our hearts to honesty before God
about what we’ve done and left undone that created less peace in a hurting world.
Let us breathe out this regret… [pause to breathe out]
and breathe in the life-giving, for-giving Spirit of God… [pause to breath in]
and out again with the Peace of Christ… [another breath out].

Make of my life a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for love to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our lives to the call of the Spirit,
inviting us to become more than we can ask or imagine.
Let us breathe out our fear… [pause to breathe out]
and breathe in the courage of the Spirit of God… [pause to breath in]
and out again, with the Peace of Christ… [another breath out].

Make of our church a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for love to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of this church, filling it with
the compassion of Christ for all those who are struggling.
We remember and pray for…

… those who are suffering economic hardship, and insecurity in basic needs;
may abundance be shared.

… those who are suffering mentally, finding it difficult to cope;
may paths open and hope return.

… those who are suffering illness or injury;
   Denise Morse
   Rob & Helen Elder
   The Isleys
   Bob & Chris Clark
may healing abound.

…. those who are suffering loneliness and isolation;
may companionship and solace arrive.

… those who are suffering discrimination, fear and violence;
may they know respect, respite, and safety.

In this moment we pause to give thanks to God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, for the gifts with which we have been blessed.

May the Advent of Compassion be born in us,
reside within us,
move outward from us,
to meet the needs of the world,
making a house for the Holy that is each and every child of God.

We pray this in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray:

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

A Story of Innkeeping: Offering

Leader: Imagine living in Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth. Little town with a big expectation! As we heard, the prophet Micah, hundreds of years earlier, had predicted that a baby would be born in this “least significant” place, one that would “surely become great.” This was part of the sacred texts of the people and surely something that everyone, including the Innkeeper, in Bethlehem knew about. But did they believe it? Did they believe that something great, a peaceful ruler, would come from their town? Perhaps not enough to realize the possibilities of a pregnant woman on their doorstep that night. Do we believe that we are capable of birthing something life-changing for the people in our community? As the Body of Christ, could we live with more expectation of what is possible? Could we look more closely at what is right in front of us?

Closing Carol

Leader: Today’s closing carol is “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” an 18th century hymn by John Francis Wade. This carol invites us to come “joyful and triumphant.” It moves between exhortation and doctrine from the Nicene Creed in the second verse. But each verse moves from boisterous to almost a hushed tone at the beginning of the refrain as we tiptoe into the stable with “O come, let us adore him.” A little-known verse focuses on love and places us in the manger with Jesus:

Child, for us sinners
poor and in the manger,
Fain we embrace thee, with awe and love:
Who would not love thee,
loving us so dearly?
O come, let us adore him…

Each one of us has known the need to love and be loved, to forgive and be forgiven, to embrace and be embraced. May we approach each person we meet with the adoration of Jesus Christ, tender and merciful, loving and kind, and make this a house of adoration for all.

“O Come, All Ye Faithful”                   UMH 234

Benediction

May God’s Door of Welcome
swing open in your heart and in your life.

May Christ’s humble first dwelling
remind you of the plenty you already know.

And may the Spirit lead you into
more possibility and hospitality than you can imagine,
making room in The Inn for all.

May it be so for you.
May it be so for us.
May it be so for this church.
Amen.

Postlude

Unless otherwise indicated, liturgy by Marcia McFee, Worship Design Studios © worshipdesignstudio.com/theinn
”Tell Out, My Soul” Words Timothy Dudley-Smith, 1961 (Lk. 1:46b-55); Music Walter Greatorex, 1919; Tune WOODLANDS; Words © 1962 Hope Publishing Co.; Music by permission of Oxford University Press; CCLI #27051
“O Come, All Ye Faithful” Words by John F. Wade, ca 1743; Trans. by Frederick Oakeley, 1841 and others, Music by John F. Wade, ca. 1743; harm. from Collections of Motetts or Antiphons, 1792, Tune: ADESTE FIDELES; Words & Music in the Public Domain; CCLI#3154; Used with permission.
“Hope Waits” and “Make of My Heart a Stable” by Amanda Udis-Kessler, used with permission.
CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Vigil for the homeless at Deny Park (Gazebo), December 21, 2021 from 4:30 to 5:00.
Blue Christmas Service, Tuesday, December 21 at 6:30, zoom and in-person service
Christmas Eve Service, December 24, 2021 at 5:30, in-person and 7:00 in-person and zoom service.
Lay Servant Courses: Rev. Ralph Howe (First UMC Brattleboro) will be facilitating the Basic Lay Servant Course
in Brattleboro on Sundays, January 30, 12:30 – 5:30, and February 6, 12:30 – 5:30. Zoom will be available for hybrid participation. To register, please complete the registration form and return it with $15 (check payable to GMLSM) to Dawn Hill-Fleury (address is on the form). Order Participants Book.The Seacoast Lay Servant Ministries is offering the Basic Lay Servant course and the advanced courses, Leading Public Worship and Discover Your Spiritual Gifts, in January 2022 via Zoom. Click here for details and the registration link.
Please return your pledge cards as soon as possible so we can complete financial planning for next year. If you need
another card, please contact the church office.
Sign up for items to bring/drop off for the Cleaning Buckets and Hygiene kits. There is a plastic tub with a black lid
on the parsonage porch that items may be left in.
NE CORR offers “New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism”
The New England Conference Commission on Religion and Race is offering a five-week course titled New England United Methodist Dismantling Racism beginning March 3, 2022. This workshop is designed for people who understand that racism is a deeply embedded problem in our society. There is an application process to join the course, application deadline is Feb. 3, 2022.
Go Green, Save Money, Save the Earth
This week features a new occasional blog by retired elder Kim Hornung-Marcy, who shares information and tips based on her philosophy that going green saves money over the long haul and will help us save the earth.
Donations will support local churches and global missions
In his Thanksgiving message, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar asked people to consider donating the cost of one cup of coffee/tea/soda or meal each day from Thanksgiving to Christmas with the proceeds to be shared equally by your local church and world missions.
Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Meat, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.
Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
November’s Collection: $2,857

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

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GRACE UNITED METHODIST
3RD Sunday of Advent, December 12, 2021
United Methodist Student Sunday

“How Much is Enough? (Joy)”

Prelude

Greetings and Announcements

Prayer for Peace                                       Pastor Kelly Harvell

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

We Open the Door    (Threshold Moment)   “Hope Waits for Us at Advent”

Leader: As John baptized new converts, he invited them to live with “changed hearts and lives.” When asked how to do that, his answers all point to making sure no one is cheated or left without the basic necessities of life, including the right to not be harassed. A full life of joy, which the prophet Isaiah desc ribes as an ever flowing spring, is the birthright of all children of God. May we act to make it so.

Joy waits for us at Advent
Joy waits for us to sing.
Joy waits for our amazement
at the grace in everything.
In this time of preparation
for the work of co-creation,
for the birthing of a world
where wonder is restored.
Joy is born in us once more!

Reader:
Today we offer the Light of Joy to illumine the Door of Welcome.
May this light shine in our hearts, in our lives, and in our church.
May Joy awaken us to possibilities and lead us to greater hospitality.
There IS room in this Inn, a House for the Holy.

Joy waits for us at Advent
Joy waits for us to sing.
Joy waits for our amazement
at the grace in everything.
In this time of preparation
for the work of co-creation,
for the birthing of a world
where wonder is restored.
Joy is born in us once more!

The Peace

The Peace of Christ be with you!
And also with you!

Opening Hymn           “Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates”            UMH 213

First Reading   :   Isaiah 12: 2-6 (CEB)

God is indeed my salvation;
    I will trust and won’t be afraid.
Yah, the Lord, is my strength and my shield;
    he has become my salvation.”
You will draw water with joy from the springs of salvation.
And you will say on that day:
“Thank the Lord; call on God’s name;
    proclaim God’s deeds among the peoples;
    declare that God’s name is exalted.
Sing to the Lord, who has done glorious things;
    proclaim this throughout all the earth.”
Shout and sing for joy, city of Zion,
because the holy one of Israel is great among you.

Second Reading       Luke 3: 7-18 (CEB)

Then John said to the crowds who came to be baptized by him, “You children of snakes! Who warned you to escape from the angry judgment that is coming soon? Produce fruit that shows you have changed your hearts and lives. And don’t even think about saying to yourselves, Abraham is our father. I tell you that God is able to raise up Abraham’s children from these stones. The ax is already at the root of the trees. Therefore, every tree that doesn’t’t produce good fruit will be chopped down and tossed into the fire.”

The crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” He answered, “Whoever has two shirts must share with the one who has none, and whoever has food must do the same.” Even tax collectors came to be baptized. They said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” He replied, “Collect no more than you are authorized to collect.” Soldiers asked, “What about us? What should we do?” He answered, “Don’tocheat or harass anyone, and be satisfied with your pay.”

The people were filled with expectation, and everyone wondered whether John might be the Christ. John replied to them all, “I baptize you with water, but the one who is more powerful than me is coming. I’m not worthy to loosen the strap of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. The shovel he uses to sift the wheat from the husks is in his hands. He will clean out his threshing area and bring the wheat into his barn. But he will burn the husks with a fire that can’t be put out.” With many other words John appealed to them, proclaiming good news to the people.

Sermon
Have you heard the news? A family of six from Afghanistan has been living on a military base in El Paso, TX and is headed for Lyme, NH as their new residence? By the time you hear this, they should have already arrived. A request for volunteers to help welcome this family as once more they uproot and move, this time from the sunny, warm areas of Texas to our more frigid, snow prone region went out December 4. As I write this, the family is due to arrive in Manchester, NH in a couple of days and in Lyme later this week.

Imagine if you would how this family may feel. They have left their homeland in the midst of chaos resulting when US troops pulled out. Their country has been taken over by an ultra-conservative group of people many in our country consider terrorists; people who treat women more as property than as people, denying them the right to education or to a fulfilling job. Some women are staying in their homes, fearful to be seen out in the community without a male relative as escort. This family is arriving in a land where women are more often seen alone or in groups of women than with a male relative; are educated alongside men in our institutes of higher education and enter the workforce on more equal footing than many from such an environment can even imagine. Boys and girls attend school together rather than separated by gender. How will the children in this family react to such a situation, to the level of freedom their classmates expect as their due, to being in coed classrooms?

Today’s scriptures remind us of how God is our salvation, our strength and shield, but that there are expectations placed on faithful followers of God, expectations that are supposed to ensure that all have enough to eat, clothes to wear, that they may go about their lives without concern for being harassed, cheated, or subjected to excess taxes because of who they are.

Though we have many poor in our communities, life in the US comes with so much unfettered freedom, freedoms that far exceed the freedoms so much of the world experiences. We have poor, but they live in a world where consumerism is rampant and are encouraged to have all the fancy gewgaws for which everyone else strives. We live in a world that encourages us to spend, spend, spend, to satisfy our every dream by buying more things.

The families that come to our country often come from countries where incomes are much less than they are here; where people are more satisfied with the basics of life, food, clothes, and housing. When I was in the Army Reserve, I traveled to several places in Central and South America where people lived in mud walled huts with thatched roofs, where there was no running water or indoor plumbing. Some might think that people living in such difficult situations would find it difficult to find joy in life, but the smile on a man’s face, as he points to a cow he has received from Heifer Project and the calf by its side, would help you see that joy comes in many forms, not just in the acquisition of more, fancier things.

Joy comes when we are able to be with those we love. It can happen as we watch a baby struggle to take those first steps. It happens when we know that the bills are paid and there is still food on the table. It happens when people reach a place where they feel safe and welcomed.

As we approach Christmas, a time of family members trying to outdo one another in giving the “best present,” as we look through the eyes of family with a soon to be born baby, a baby born to redeem all of creation, let us look through eyes of faith and ears, open to the cries of the most needy in our world. May our hearts be open to the love of Jesus, born that night and in housing the Holy in our hearts, may that love flow out from us into the world around us. Amen.

Prayers of the People

Make of my heart a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for joy to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our hearts to honesty before God
about what we’ve done and left undone that created less peace in a hurting world.
Let us breathe out this regret… [pause to breathe out]
and breathe in the life-giving, for-giving Spirit of God… [pause to breath in]
and out again with the Peace of Christ… [another breath out].

Make of my life a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for joy to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our lives to the call of the Spirit,
inviting us to become more than we can ask or imagine.
Let us breathe out our fear… [pause to breathe out]
and breathe in the courage of the Spirit of God… [pause to breath in]
and out again, with the Peace of Christ… [another breath out].

Make of our church a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for joy to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of this church, filling it with
the compassion of Christ for all those who are struggling.
We remember and pray for…

… Bob and Chris Clark

… Family of Lisa Kelly and her husband and for all victims and perpetrators of domestic violence

… Ryan, losing battle with COVID

… those who are suffering economic hardship, and insecurity in basic needs;
may abundance be shared.

… those who are suffering mentally, finding it difficult to cope;
may paths open and hope return.

… those who are suffering illness or injury;
may healing abound.

…. those who are suffering loneliness and isolation;
may companionship and solace arrive.

… those who are suffering discrimination, fear and violence;
may they know respect, respite, and safety.

In this moment we pause to give thanks to God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, for the gifts with which we have been blessed.

… Lillian’s brother and his wife are over COVID

May the Advent of Compassion be born in us,
reside within us,
move outward from us,
to meet the needs of the world,
making a house for the Holy that is each and every child of God.

We pray this in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray:

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

A Story of Innkeeping: Offering

Leader: Many imaginative tales have been spun about "The Inn” and the people who may have been involved in the story. As we’ve already said, we know very little about the circumstances from the Bible. Another theory is that it wasn’t an inn at all but the downstairs of a house where the family animals were kept, under the top floor where the family lived. This scenario suggests that each and every home can be a birthing place for more goodness in this world. It suggests that this House of God, this church, might contain a surprising nook or cranny that could house a holy endeavor for bringing more joy to someone’s life.

Closing Carol

Leader: Today’s closing carol is “What Child is This” that invites “peasants and kings” to claim Christ as their own (the Glory to God hymnal changes this to “one and all”). Chatterton Dix was not a clergy person like most of the hymn writers of the 19th century. He was a businessman in England. He asks the question, “Why lies he in such mean estate,” referring to the stable, and in the original second verse, answers by connecting the humble, wooden birth manger to the wood of the cross “borne” at his death: [see more about this history HERE].

Why lies He in such mean estate,
where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear: for sinners here
the silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear, shall pierce him through;
the cross be borne for me, for you
Hail, hail, the Word made flesh,
the babe, the son of Mary.

True joy acknowledges the suffering of the world, and invites all people regardless of status to claim Christ’s grace and joy as salve for the soul. May we offer warm laps and soft lullabies to sooth a hurting world.

“What Child Is This”                       UMH 219

Benediction

May God’s Door of Welcome
swing open in your heart and in your life.

May Christ’s humble first dwelling
remind you of the plenty you already know.

And may the Spirit lead you into
more possibility and hospitality than you can imagine,
making room in The Inn for all.

May it be so for you.
May it be so for us.
May it be so for this church.
Amen.

Postlude

Unless otherwise indicated, liturgy by Marcia McFee, Worship Design Studios © worshipdesignstudio.com/theinn
“Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates” Words Georg Weissel, 17th cent., trans. by Catherine Winkworth, 1855 (Ps. 24); Music Psalmodia Evangelica, 1789; Tune TRURO; Words & Music Public Domain; CCLI #1863214
“What Child Is This” Words by William C. Dix, 1865 (Lk. 2:6-29; Mt. 2:1-12), Music 16th cent. English melody, Tune: GREENSLEEVES; CCLI#30983; Used with permission.
“Hope Waits” and “Make of My Heart a Stable” by Amanda Udis-Kessler, used with permission.
CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329;

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Blue Christmas Service, Tuesday, December 21 at 6:30, zoom and Gathering Room service
Christmas Eve Service, December 24, 2021 at 5:30 (Gathering Room Service) and 7:00 (Zoom Service)
Church Council Zoom Meeting, Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at 6:30.
Sign up for items to bring/drop off for the Cleaning Buckets and Hygiene kits. There is a plastic tub with a black lid on the parsonage porch that items may be left in.

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Meat, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
November’s Collection: $2,857

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People
**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************

GRACE UNITED METHODIST
1ST Sunday of Advent
United Methodist Student Sunday

“Making Room (Hope)”

Prelude

Greetings and Announcements

We Open the Door    (Threshold Moment)   “Hope Waits for Us at Advent”

Leader:
The pandemic has laid bare, and widened, economic disparity locally and globally. As we enter the Advent season, how can our church become a house where the Holy will be born anew–offering respite, sustenance and care, opening the doors ever wider to those seeking shelter from the onslaught of life? No one church can do it all, but each can do something. As we study the biblical prophets that call us to care for our neighbors and “make room in the inn,” the lonely and frightened spaces within us are filled with the light of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Hope waits for us at Advent
Hope waits for us to trust.
Hope waits for our commitment
to a land that’s kind and just.
In this time of preparation
for the work of co-creation,
for the birthing of a world
that heals the ones in pain.
Hope is born in us again!

Reader:
Today we offer the Light of Hope to illumine the Door of Welcome.
May this light shine in our hearts, in our lives, and in our church.
May Hope awaken us to possibilities and lead us to greater hospitality.
There IS room in this Inn, a House for the Holy.

Hope waits for us at Advent
Hope waits for us to trust.
Hope waits for our commitment
to a land that’s kind and just.
In this time of preparation
for the work of co-creation,
for the birthing of a world
that heals the ones in pain.
Hope is born in us again!

The Peace

The Hope of Christ be with you!
And also with you!

Opening Hymn/Song               “Hail to the Lord’s Anointed”              UMH 203

First Reading       Jeremiah 33: 14-16 (CEB)

The time is coming, declares the Lord, when I will fulfill my gracious promise with the people of Israel and Judah. In those days and at that time, I will raise up a righteous branch from David’s line, who will do what is just and right in the land. In those days, Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is what he will be called: The Lord Is Our Righteousness.

Second Reading   Psalm 25: 4-5 (CEB)

Make your ways known to me, Lord;
    teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth—teach it to me
    because you are the God who saves me.
        I put my hope in you all day long.

Sermon
The “First Sunday of Advent,” the beginning of a new liturgical year, the time the cycle of scripture readings moves to the next year of the cycle, this year we move from Year B to Year C; the time we begin preparation for the coming of a baby, the birth of Jesus, the welcoming of the Prince of Peace.

The promised birth of a baby brings many things. It brings a lot of stress as the young family worries about their ability to care for the new born. It often brings thoughts of the future; will it be a boy or a girl? Who will they look more like? What will they grow up to be? A farmer? A lawyer? A soldier? Will they walk in the footsteps of their parents? The promise of the birth of a baby can also bring hope. As a family prepares for a baby, it prepares for the future. New life brings hope as we look at the promise new life brings.

Advent is a time we look to the future hope that Jesus brings into the world, the hope that comes for those who are followers of Jesus as we traditionally look at the promised second coming of Jesus. This year, we will look at scriptures not only through eyes that look for that second coming, but through eyes that know Jesus came into the world some 2000 years ago and how that coming opened doors that changed everything.

The people of Israel are in exile. Imagine how they must have felt. Many had been killed as their homes were overrun. They were forcibly taken to live imprisoned, far from their homeland. Fear and despair would not be surprising. The people of God were in desperate need of a word of hope. The prophet, Jeremiah, steps up and brings such a word. A righteous king will arise, one that will protect them, will bring the blessings of God upon them.

These last almost two years have been difficult for us, for our community, our country and the world. We are slowly emerging, with many backward steps, from the pandemic that has killed over 768,000 people in the U.S., over 5 million worldwide. We, like the people to whom Jeremiah was speaking, need a word of hope. Thousands have come or are coming to our borders, seeking a new life, seeing our country as a place of hope. Thousands were evacuated from Afghanistan following the withdrawal of American and other troops that resulted in the Taliban taking over the country with still more seeking to get out, hoping to make their way to the United States where they hope for a welcome from the people with whom they have worked for the last 20 years. There is a crisis of drugs and violence in our country, people of darker colored skin are dying at even higher rates than those of white skin, but people of all colors and ethnic backgrounds are engaging in acts of violence. Even politicians are using violent words and videos that are apparently acceptable to certain others.

The world is in need of a word of hope. As we enter the season of Advent, we are all searching for a word of hope. We need to hear a word from God that things will get better, that we will have a place to live, food on our tables, jobs that will fulfill us. We need a word of hope that this pandemic will end and we will return to life like it used to be. We need a word of hope that we will return to a civil world where violence is no longer encouraged or condoned at any level of government or by any part of our culture.

From Jeremiah and from the Psalm, we get such hope. God keeps God’s promises. God wants good for those who trust in God. When a time of struggle is over, God will change the playing field, so that those who have suffered will find their very lives changed if they continue to walk with integrity and trust in God.

The one called “The Lord Is Our Righteousness” has come into the world. Born some 2000 years ago into a royal family, though a humble branch, Jesus brought God’s message of redemption for all of creation. Believe in Jesus, living lives that show our trust in his saving grace, brings us onto the pathways that lead to God. Faith in Jesus brings hope to our lives and to the lives of others.

Hope looks different for different people. The people of Jeremiah’s time found hope in the promise of God’s integrity, of safety and a return to home. For soldiers returning from deployment hope might look like a return to life as it was before the deployment, something with which can sympathize as we look for the ending of the pandemic. For the teaming masses at our borders or who have recently arrived, hope might look like peace, lives no longer lived in fear of attacks from gangs, drug lords or those who have recently taken over their homeland; it might look like an economic chance, a chance of getting an education, finding a job and being capable to adequately provide for a family.

Hope may look different, but without hope, the despair can become palpable, people giving up on life, upon themselves. As we share the hope we have with others, we begin to open the doors, welcoming the heavenly family in as we move outward expanding the reach of Jesus’ message to new people in our community and in the world.

Prayers of the People   “Make of My Heart a Stable”
Make of my heart a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for [hope] to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our hearts to honesty before God
about what we’ve done and left undone that created less hope in a hurting world.
Let us breathe out this regret… [pause to breathe out]
   and breathe in the life-giving, for-giving Spirit of God… [pause to breath in]
and out again with the Peace of Christ… [another breath out].

Make of my life a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for [hope] to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of our lives to the call of the Spirit,
inviting us to become more than we can ask or imagine.
Let us breathe out our fear… [pause to breathe out]
   and breathe in the courage of the Spirit of God… [pause to breath in]
and out again, with the Peace of Christ… [another breath out].

Make of our church a stable,
a house for the holy,
a warm and sturdy place
for [hope] to live and grow.

In this moment we open the doors of this church, filling it with
the compassion of Christ for all those who are struggling.
We remember and pray for… Joan’s (Phyllis sister) family

… those who are suffering economic hardship, and insecurity in basic needs;
may abundance be shared.

… those who are suffering mentally, finding it difficult to cope;
may paths open and hope return.

… those who are suffering illness or injury; Bob Clark, Phyllis, Sharon, Lillian’s brother, wife, nephew and son (COVID), Dottie may healing abound.

…. those who are suffering loneliness and isolation;
may companionship and solace arrive.

… those who are suffering discrimination, fear and violence;
may they know respect, respite, and safety.

In this moment we pause to give thanks to God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, for the gifts with which we have been blessed.

For opportunities to gather with family we haven’t seen in a while as well as those whom we see daily…Lillian’s family celebrated Thanksgiving early
For the gift of vaccines and all who have received their boosters as well as for those who are unable or unwilling to be vaccinated.

For the wonders of our natural world, for turkey vultures who cluck and the wonders of an eclipse.
For these and so much more, we give you thanks and praise. May your passion for giving of yourself fill us that we might give ourselves that others may know your blessings.

May the Advent of Compassion be born in us,
reside within us,
move outward from us,
to meet the needs of the world,
making a house for the Holy that is each and every child of God.

We pray this in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray:

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

A Story of Innkeeping: Offering

Leader: The Bible doesn’t actually mention an Innkeeper in the story of Jesus’ birth. But this popular notion is alive in our imaginations. Sometimes the Innkeeper gets a bad rap, as if providing substandard accommodations for a family about to go through the birthing process. But what if we saw the innkeeper as someone who, with a full house, thought literally “outside the box” to solve a problem? What if we endeavored to do the same to provide ministry, to “house the Holy” in ways we have not yet imagined? This Advent season we will offer some stories to stir our imagination and stoke the possibilities for our own hospitality. What is a story you might have to offer?

Closing Carol

Leader: Each week of this series we will close out with a Christmas Carol. Yes, Advent is not yet the birth of Christ. However, as we prepare our homes and this house for the Holy, we live in the “already and not yet.” We already know “the rest of the story” AND YET we have not seen the fulfillment of a time when suffering ends. Today we sing “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” a carol written by Phillips Brooks in 1865 after a horseback ride between Jerusalem and Bethlehem on Christmas Eve [see more about this history HERE]. An original verse not included in our hymnals is especially poignant for our theme:

“Where children pure and happy
Pray to the blessed Child,
Where misery cries out to thee,
Son of the Mother mild;
Where charity stands watching
And faith holds wide the door,
The dark night wakes, the glory breaks,
And Christmas comes once more.”

Let us remember that it was in a little and unassuming town where the Holy was housed. We too can offer light and hope and a place where “faith holds wide the door,” even and especially in our little town.

“O Little Town of Bethlehem”                                   UMH 230

Benediction

May God’s Door of Welcome
swing open in your heart and in your life.

May Christ’s humble first dwelling
remind you of the plenty you already know.

And may the Spirit lead you into
more possibility and hospitality than you can imagine,
making room in The Inn for all.

May it be so for you.
May it be so for us.
May it be so for this church.
Amen.

Postlude

Unless otherwise indicated, liturgy by Marcia McFee, Worship Design Studios © worshipdesignstudio.com/theinn
“Hail to the Lord’s Anointed” WORDS: James Montgomery, 1821 (Ps 72); MUSIC: Gesangbuch der H. W. k. hoƒkapelle, 1784 alt; adapt. and harm. by W.H. Monk, 1868; TUNE: ELLACOMBE; Words & Music in the Public Domain
“O Little Town of Bethlehem” WORDS: Phillips Brooks, ca. 1868; MUSIC: Lewis H. Redner, 1868; TUNE: ST LOUIS; Words & Music in the Public Domain; CCLI #27829; CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329; Used by permission

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Please have your pledge cards in by the end of the month.

Sign up for items to bring/drop off for the Cleaning Buckets and Hygiene kits. There is a plastic tub with a black lid on the parsonage porch that items may be left in.

RESULTS OF THE VOTE ON THE RECONCILING STATEMENT: Overwhelmingly, the congregation approved the statement. Next steps, a picture needs to be taken, application completed, and a check for support of the network needs to be mailed to the Reconciling Ministries Network.

Spirit Wind Fair Trade Online Sale Extended
Spirt Wind Fair Trade sells products from the seamstresses and artisans in Nicaragua. Do some Christmas shopping and some good at this online sale, Which is now Nov. 19-30, 2021 Learn more

Join Hybrid Event INVISIBLE: RACISM, SEXISM, & XENOPHBIA
Clergy and laity are invited to INVISIBLE: RACISM, SEXISH, & XENOPHOBIA a time of connection and learning with the Rev. Dr. Grace Ji-Sun Kim. The event will be in-person and live-streamed from 9:30 to 1 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021, at Carter Memorial UMC in Needham, MA. Learn more and register

Three From New England Among 2021 EarthKeepers
Global Ministries will commission 17 new EarthKeepersin December and among them are three from England—including two youth. They are Isaiah Robinson, Rev. Sheri Smit and Taylor Smith. The EarthKeepers commission will be live-streamed at 8 p.m. on Thursday, December 8, 202. The service will be led by Bishop LaTrelle Easterling. Read more

Still Time to Donate Jewelry for AC 22 Sale
Thank you very much for the wonderful jewelry donations we have received! We look forward to offering many beautiful choices at the 2022 Annual Conference while also benefitting youth ministries here in New England. We are still happily collection donations of gently used jewelry. You may bring donations to district events or mail them to: New England Conference, Attention: Bishop’s Office, 411 Merrrimack St., Suite 200, Methuen, MA 01844

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Meat, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
September’s Collection through Sept. 20th: $1,265

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
26TH Sunday after Pentecost
Reign of Christ/Thanksgiving
November 21, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Centering Words (Psalm 126)                                      B .J. Beu
Let those who sow in tears, bear sheaves of joy this Thanksgiving. Let those who have endured a long winter of waiting, sing for joy at the rich harvest of God’s bountiful love.

*Opening Hymn:           “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come”                  UMH 694

Call to Worship (Joel 2, Psalm 126, Matthew 6
L: Those who go out weeping,
P: shall come home with shouts of joy!
L: Those who worry about their life,
P: shall learn that God knows all their needs.

L; Those who have experienced the swarming locust,
P: shall eat in plenty and be satisfied.
L; Those who long for comfort,
P: shall be glad and rejoice,
   for God has done great things!

Prayer of the Day (Joel 2, Ps 126, Matt 6, 1 Tim 2)
Maker of heaven and earth, you enliven your creation:
   causing the skies to rain,
   the soil to be rich and fertile,
   the fields to yield abundant crops,
   and the trees to bear fruit.
Enliven us once more, Holy One.
Call us forth into the joy of your harvest:
   from tears to shouts of joy,
   from calamity to plenty,
   from worry to faith,
   and from what is false to what is true.
You are our God, there is no other.
We praise your name, for you have dealt wondrously with us and will do so again. Amen.

Scripture Reading:
Joel 2:21-27
Psalm 126
1Timothy 2:1-7
Matthew 6:25-33

Message
It is Christ the King Sunday, but what better way to celebrate the Reign of Christ than to give thanks?

In case you have forgotten, Thanksgiving is Thursday. Families are scrambling to get ready for this feast day, this day when people traditionally gather to share in a huge meal and give thanks for an abundant harvest. It is a day of families gathering, over-eating, fighting, and falling asleep watching the parades and football games.

From the prophet, Joel, we hear words of promise for healing of the land following an invasion by locusts that has devastated the land, words of hope for the future, for one is coming to teach the people how to live so they no longer need fear punishment from God. The psalmist celebrates a future hope for good harvest by those who live lives focused on God. The Letter to Timothy encourages us to pray, paying particular attention to those who are governmental leaders. The gospel says worry won’t change anything, just as God provides for the rest of creation, so God is able to provide for those who trust in God.

As we prepare for this feast day, one of the rare ones where the focus is on food rather than gifts, let’s reflect back on this last year. For what are we able to give thanks, particularly in light of the still very present pandemic?

Last year at this time, we were strictly meeting on Zoom. That precious gift of technology not only allowed us to gather when the state told us to not be in-person but continues to allow people to worship with us from home when they are not up to driving to worship, are being health conscious about themselves or others, or when they have other reasons for not being at a gathering of people. The Administrative Council is enjoying the ability to meet without having to go out at night and I suspect some are looking forward to not having to get out during snow covered or icy roads. We that are gathered here are, I suspect, thankful that we are at least able to meet in-person though things are not back to normal and we are wearing masks, opening windows and turning on ventilatory support to reduce the risks of being gathered together.

We are blessed to live in a country where the people have a say in the governing process, yet we are seeing that democratic governance threatened by petty political infighting built on greed and a desire for power. As Timothy was encouraged to pray for rulers and governments, so too should we pray, seeking God’s wisdom and God’s desire for justice for all people, not just a select demographic, for those leading our country.

Most, if not all, of us should be thankful that we have food on our tables, roofs over our heads, heat coming from our furnaces. I’m sure you heard me say “most.” There are many in our community for whom an assumption of “all,” would do a great disservice. Some struggle to afford heat, some must decide between food and medications, some are just one paycheck away from losing housing and others are homeless. As we gather and give thanks to God for the many gifts God has given us, let us keep those who are not as blessed with the necessities of life in our prayers, and consider the changes that need to occur that all might have enough. God looks to us to be the hands, feet and mouths that seek to change things, that work to bring about an equitable distribution of food and resources, that all might have enough and know the love God has for them.

Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, tells his listeners they should not worry about food and clothing because if God provides for the birds all that they need and clothes the flowers in such radiant beauty, won’t God care for people in whom God takes pride. Lest we throw up our hands and say, “God will take care of them,” let us remember that God works through the hands, feet and voices of people to ensure all have what they need. That means God looks to us to help out as we can. The food, cash, and other essentials this congregation shares with others through the Food Shelf is just one way we serve God through serving others.

God sent Jesus into a world filled with struggle, sin and hopelessness. We are on the verge of a major season where people get caught up in a competition to see who will give the most presents to friends and family while failing to see the everyday needs that arise throughout the year. Giving to charitable organizations increase during this time, but rapidly fall off after the first of the year. Jesus was sent into the world to teach us how to live in righteousness, recognizing the needs of others not just at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but throughout the year. While even Jesus realized that the poor would always be with us, he also said, those who offer a drink of water, feed the hungry, cloth the naked, visit those in hospitals and prisons, all in his name would find salvation through him and be welcomed into his reign at the end of time.

This year, as we celebrate the in-breaking of Jesus’ reign, let us give thanks to God for the gift of a Savior willing to suffer at the hands of humanity that we might know God’s love for us. As we gather with family and friends, let us put aside our petty squabbling’s over politics and who will win the football game, instead giving thanks to God who has provided for and loves us. Amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:   Leader:
Alleluia?                  Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!              Response: Hear our prayer!

Celebrations:
   Woke to seeing snow and ice this morning

Petitions:
   Bob & Chris Clark
   Dottie having knee replacement 11/17/21
   Our country, COVID-19 rising numbers, political situation, economy

Pastoral Prayer                                            Ami Sawtelle
We give thanks to you creating, sustaining, life giving God. You have poured out the wonders of your creation that we might have food to sustain our bodies; wood and metals that we have shelter for our families, knowledge that we might find ways to combat disease. We ask for wisdom, that we will use the gifts you have given us in ways that sustain rather than destroy, wisdom, that we will learn the way to peace is not through conflict, but through helping one another to have a better world. Forgive us when we think that our desires are more important than others’ needs. Forgive us when we fail to share the love with which we have been showered with others. We know you are a loving God, seeking to heal the relationship with your people. Open us to your mercy and grace as we open ourselves to your loving, healing presence.

You have heard the not only prayers we have lifted aloud, but also the ones we hold closely in our hearts. Heal the sick and those recovering from surgery gracious God. Give hope to the hopeless. Comfort those that mourn as you welcome loved ones into your presence. Assure us of your presence not only in days of celebration, but also in times of pain and sorrow. Guide those who are the leaders of our country, showing them the way that leads to hope and health for all. Heal the land that you have given us. You placed us in a garden at the beginning of time, giving us the responsibility to care for it that our children would have food, shelter and a healthy environment in which to live, but we got busy using its resources for our own wants and have messed it up. Heal it, that future generations may look back and know that we really did care.

You who art the giver and sustainer of life, to you we give our thanks and praise for the gifts you have poured out on us. As we go into the future, may we continue to walk in the light of your love. Amen.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God (Joel 2)                                   Mary J. Scrifes
Be glad and rejoice! Just as summer brought green forests and sunny days, so now fall brings abundant fields and changing leaves. As the rain falls upon us, may we remember that the seasons, the fertile earth, and the blessings they yield, are gifts from God—gifts to be shared with those in need.

*Doxology        ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”               UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674, Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH, Public Domain, CCLI # 56204
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer                                               B .J. Beu
Gracious God, source of every blessing, we look forward to your harvest each year. Our tables overflow with the bounty of this good earth, but our tables pale in comparison to the splendor that awaits us, and all of your children, at your heavenly banquet. Receive these offerings, as we thank you for your many blessings, and help us be mindful of those who go without, as we feast and make merry during this festive season. Amen.

*Hymn to send us into the world:           “Now Thank We All Our God”           UMH 102

Benediction (Psalm 126, Matthew 6()
Go home with hearts filled with hope!
For God, who has restored us in the past,
will do so again.
Let us go home singing songs of hope!
Go home with shouts of joy!
For God, who knows our tears,
will not leave us comfortless.
Let us go home singing songs of joy!
Go home with souls touched by grace!
For God, who knows our needs and daily cares,
will provide us with the blessings of life.
Let us go home singing songs of grace and mercy!

Unless otherwise noted, liturgy by Mary J. Scifres, B.J. Beu & Rebecca J. Kruger Gaudino from the Abingdon Worship Annual 2021, © 2020 by Abingdon Press. Found at MinistryMatters.org. Used by permission.
“Come, Ye Thankful People, Come”   UMH 694; Words: Henry Alford, 1844, alt. (Mk. 4:26-29; Mt. 13:36-43); Music: George J. Elvey, 1858; Tune: ST. GEORGE’S WINDSOR, Copyright: Words and Music, Public Domain; CCLI#: 50200
“Now Thank We All Our God”; UMH 102; Words: Martin Rinkart, 1636; trans. by Catherine Winkworth, 1858 (Sir. 50:22-24);
Music: Johann Crüger, 1647; harm. by Felix Mendelssohn, 1840; Tune: NUN DANKET; Copyright: Words & Music Public Domain; CCLI # 86638
CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329; Used by permission

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Special Charge Conference – November 30, 2021 @ 6:30 p.m.. There will be a Special Charge Conference via Zoom on November 30, 2021 @ 6:30 p.m.. “The purpose of the conference is to take any legal action with respect to the Boy Scouts of America bankruptcy litigation by December 14, 2021.” Pastor Ami will set up in the Gathering Room for any who are interested in what is happening, but unable to connect to Zoom either by phone or by internet.

Conference Request – from: Pastor David Arruda, temporary emergency response coordinator for the New England Conference - UMCOR Cleaning Kits and Hygiene Kits – Due to the number of storms in the offing and the low inventory of these supplies, churches are asked to create and store (until the first of next year) these kits in anticipation of possible need in parts of our Annual Conference. Links to UMCOR Website for contents: https://umcmission.org/umcor-cleaning-kit/
https://umcmission.org/umcor-hygiene-kit/

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Meat, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
September’s Collection through Sept. 20th: $1,265

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

November 14, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and Lighting our Candle for Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Centering Words (Psalm 16)                                      Karin Ellis
In the presence of God, we find the fullness of joy. May this time of worship be full of joy, surprises, healing, and love.

*Opening Hymn:               “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”              UMH 117
Words: Isaac Watts, 1719 (Ps 90); Music: Attr. To William Croft, 1708; Harm. By W.H. Monk, 1861
Tune: ST. ANNE; Copyright: Words and Music, Public Domain
CCLI#: 43152; CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329; Used by permission

Call to Worship (1Samuel 1, Psalm 113, Hebrews 10, Mark 13)       Sara Dunning Lambert
L: My strength is exalted in my God.
   Despite sorrows and sadness, anxieties and vexations, we praise your name, O Lord.
P: For the power of the Lord gives me strength,
and the love of the Lord gives me hope.
L: With Hannah, the mother of sorrows,
we bless the name of the Lord, today and forever.
From the rising of the sun to its setting, God is with us.
P: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
We praise your holy name, O God.
L: From Hannah, the mother of joy,
we learn the bounty of unwavering hope.
P: Let your servant find favor in your sight, O Lord.
L: Hardship is a constant companion.
We must rely on the selfless example of Christ
to show us the way to truth, life, and love. Amen

Prayer of the Day (1Samuel 1, Hebrews 10)                      Sara Dunning Lambert
Holy One, there is no God like you. In praise and thanksgiving, we come before you
ready to learn of your power, ready to follow your path for our lives. Through days of jubilation as well as dejection, help us realize your influence in the world. We ask simply for ears to hear, eyes to see, and minds to comprehend the blessings you bestow. Amen.

Scripture Reading:
1Samuel 1:4-20
1Samuel 2:1-10
Hebrews 10:11-18
Mark 13:1-8

Message
Hannah, a faithful believer in God, trusting in God, is barren. In a society that values women mostly for their reproductive abilities, this is a tragedy and seen as a sign of God’s judgement, much like Job’s losses were supposedly a sign of his sinfulness.

In today’s world, barrenness is a condition that brings less of a stigma but still a great deal of distress to families. Families go to many extremes in their struggle to have a child of their own, yet there are numerous times this fails to work. As we hear Hannah’s story, let us hold those who are unable to have a child of their own in our hearts.

Hannah remains faithful to God. Elkanah’s other wife, Peninnah, gloats over her own ability to reproduce and rubs it in Hannah’s face. How do we see those with differing abilities? How do we treat them? At our best, we partner with them in ways that encourage and enable them. At our worst, we can come across as Peninnah did, belittling them and treating them as less than useful members of society.

Sometimes people misjudge others, jumping to conclusions without having all the facts. Eli, a priest of God, jumped to conclusions when he saw a woman he assumed was drunk because her lips were moving and he heard no words. Hannah, this devout woman, was crying her pain and her shame before God, and the priest stumbled, making assumptions without having all the facts. We all slip sometimes, jumping to conclusions based on appearances rather than seeking to understand the situation. We jump in, as did Eli, assuming the worst rather than trying to understand and perhaps offering support or help as the situation might indicate.

When we pour our hearts out before God, when we share our hopes, fears, and desires with a servant of God, many times we find peace for our hearts. While not a guarantee that all will be as we desire, that sense of God’s presence uplifts our spirits, helping us deal with our hopes and disappointments. Hannah had no guarantee that she would have a son, but having poured out her sorrow to God, having shared her hopes with Eli, she appears to at least have found some sense of peace as her countenance was no longer sad.

Finally, after years of barrenness, Hannah’s prayers are answered and she has a son. Most of us would want to hang on to such a precious gift from God, watching him grow, guiding him and rejoicing in his achievements. Maybe he’ll be a sports star, or a famous lawyer, perhaps he’ll distinguish himself as an heroic soldier, we would desire to see our child grow and succeed. I’m sure Hannah was no different, but, Hannah had promised God that if God opened her womb and gave her a son, she would give that child back to God.

Would we be willing to return such a gift to God? Would we have the strength to wait until the child is weaned, about 2-3 years old; helping him take his first stumbling steps; watching as he takes his first bites of solid food, knowing that soon it will be time to take him to the Temple to be raised by the priest who jumped to conclusions and berated us for being drunk? This is what Hannah did in the latter part of this first chapter of 1 Samuel.

Our reading from the second chapter of 1Samuel is Hannah’s response following her release of he son, Samuel, to Eli. This song of celebration, of thanksgiving, of praise, is a testimony to her faith and her love for God. Will she miss this, her first child? Yes, of course, but she rejoices in the gift of life and the goodness of God toward her.

You see, everything we do, everything we experience, is just a part of the story. When we are faithful followers of Jesus Christ, lovers of God, who was willing to come to earth in human form, we are never alone. God sees and hears what is in our hearts. God hears our prayers. God doesn’t always answer us the way we desire, but God is with us in our joys and in our disappointments. Like Hannah, we should share our thanksgivings with God. Like Hannah, we are called to trust in God and God’s love for us, knowing that God also loves us and wants only good for our lives. God was Hannah’s rock in a time of struggle and shame, let God be your rock in times of trouble and pain.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:   Leader:
Alleluia?                  Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!              Response: Hear our prayer!

Celebrations:
   Patrick had a good visit with his dad
   Seeing Nancy Townley’s name in the liturgy nice
   Maddie turning 14

Petitions:
   Bob & Chris Clark

Pastoral Prayer                                               Ami Sawtelle
Rock of Ages, our place of hope and comfort, to you we lift our prayers, seeking your comfort, desiring your healing, needing you presence in our lives. We acknowledge that we don’t always live the way you want us to live. We speak when we should be silent and are silent when we should speak. We fail to share your love to those in need and fail to walk in integrity and peace when things do not go our way. Forgive us mighty One, help us in our times of trouble and celebrate with us in our times of joy. To you we lift those who are ill… asking your healing touch upon their minds, bodies and spirits. We lift to you those who are nearing the end of their journey on earth… asking for a peaceful transition and joyful welcome into our presence. To you we lift those who walk in darkness… shine your light of love in their hearts that they may find peace and joy, turning from their sinful ways and walking the pathway of love and light that leads to you. Righteousness and grace are yours O Rock of our Salvation, we celebrate your loving presence and joys you have given unto us. We give thanks for the changing seasons yet mourn the damage we have done to our environment. We give you thanks for birthdays and anniversaries that mark the passing of time, yet mourn the divisions in so many families that lead to violence, injury, and sometimes death. Enkindle within us a light of hope, that overrides the darkness that surrounds us and help us to have faith and trust like Hannah’s that we may serve you in all our days. Amen.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God                                       Karin Ellis
Hannah went to the temple and offered her prayers to God. Jesus offered his love and his life. May this be the time when we offer our gifts to God in thanksgiving for God’s abiding presence in our lives.

*Doxology        ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”               UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674, Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH, Public Domain, CCLI # 56204
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer (1Samuel 1, Psalm 113, Hebrews 10, Mark 13)
Today, O Lord, we offer you our sacrifice of time, energy, and love, knowing full well they are mere tokens of the awesome faith you inspire within us. Accept these gifts, that they may continue the good work in Christ — in our church, in our community, and in the world. Blessed be the name of the Lord!

*Hymn to Send Us Into the World:           “Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me”          UMH 361
Words: Augustus M. Toplady, 1776; Music: Thomas Hastings, 1830
Tune: TOPLADY; Copyright: Words & Music Public Domain
CCLI # 40588; CCLI License # 11554317; Streaming License: 20810329; Used by permission

Benediction                                          Sara Dunning Lambert
Go in peace, remembering a mother’s faith in God — a faith that provided her with comfort and strength
in her time of need. May you pray unfailingly, grow steadily, and love constantly. Amen.

Centering Words & Invitation to the Offering – Karin Ellis, from the Abingdon Worship Annual 2021, © 2020 by Abingdon Press. Found at MinistryMatters.org. Used by permission.
Call to Worship, Opening Prayer, Offering Prayer & Benediction by Sara Dunning Lambert, Worship Elements, found at MinistryMatters.org. Used by permission.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Saving money, saving the earth!
The Vermont state weatherization program transforms people’s lives! It is free for those who qualify. They save money, and are more comfortable. Moderate- and low-income Vermonters qualify based on income and number of people in the home.
To learn more go to: dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/weatherization. If you have further questions email Kim Hornung-Marcy, retired elder, khmarcy@comcast.net.

Conference Request – from: Pastor David Arruda, temporary emergency response coordinator for the New England Conference - UMCOR Cleaning Kits and Hygiene Kits – Due to the number of storms in the offing and the low inventory of these supplies, churches are asked to create and store (until the first of next year) these kits in anticipation of possible need in parts of our Annual Conference. Links to UMCOR Website for contents: https://umcmission.org/umcor-cleaning-kit/
https://umcmission.org/umcor-hygiene-kit/

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
September’s Collection through October 3: $3,406
October’s Collection through October 10-24: $2,470
$1,000 donation in memory of someone

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
22ND Sunday after Pentecost
October 24, 2021                                               Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Worship is moving to the Gathering Space beginning 10-24
Church Conference is Monday, October 25 at 7:00 pm. Pastor Ami will set up in the Gathering Space to allow those who do not have access to the internet or to Zoom to participate in-person.

Prayer for Peace and Lighting Our Candle for Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love; so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Centering Words (Psalm 34)                                       B .J. Beu
Taste and see that the Lord is good. God’s steadfast love endures forever.

Opening Hymn:                “Wonderful Words of Life”                   UMH 600 Words: Philip P. Bliss, 1874, Music: Philip P. Bliss, 1874
Tune: WORDS OF LIFE
CCLI # 47392, Words and Music Public Domain
CCLI License # 11554317, Streaming License: 20810329
Musician: UMCDiscipleship.org, Used by permission

Call to Worship (Job 42, Psalm 34)                                   B. J. Beu
L: Magnify the Lord. Exalt God’s holy name.
   P: How can we praise God amidst so much suffering?
L: God is Lord over all—both good and evil.
   P: Only the saints can comprehend such things.
L: The Lord hears the pleas of the perishing,
   and transforms the suffering of the faithful
   into a deeper joy.
   P: Restore our fortunes, O God,
   when calamity strikes.
L: Magnify the Lord, you righteous of the Lord.
   P: We will exalt God’s holy name.

Prayer of the Day (Job 42, Mark 10)                                   B. J. Beu
God our healer, source of everlasting mercy,
give us the courage to cry out in our need
when the crowd seeks to silence us,
as did blind Bartimaeus outside Jericho;
give us the wisdom to admit our limitations
and accept our limited understanding,
as did Job before us;
give us the confidence to sing your praises
in the midst of fear and doubt,
as the psalmist did in David’s court.
Grant us your healing balm, O God,
that we may be truly made well and whole
and follow you all the days of our lives. Amen.

Scripture Reading:
Job 42:1-6, 10-17
Psalm 34: 1-8, 19-22
Hebrews 7:23-28
Mark 10:46-52

Message

   Have you ever had a time when you wondered if what you have believed for years is true? A crisis of faith, such as the one Job has just gone through, may change the way we see God. Young people often reach a point where what they have been taught about God no longer works for them. A grandfatherly looking man, with a white beard and white robes sitting on a throne no longer makes sense to some people and they go through a time of struggling with who God is, what the meaning of life is,

   Job has experienced a crisis of faith. As he has listened to his friends spout the party line, ‘you suffered because you have sinned,’ he has continued to declare his innocence while still struggling with why he is suffering. When God showed up, Job didn’t get the answers for which he was looking, instead being challenged by a series of questions posed by God concerning Jobs understanding of how the created world functions and Jobs own control of nature.

   Job’s response to God shows us a growth in Job’s faith, a change in Job’s understanding of God. “I admit I once lived by rumors of you; now I have it all firsthand - from my own eyes and ears!  I'm sorry - forgive me. I'll never do that again, I promise! I'll never again live on crusts of hearsay, crumbs of rumor." (Job 42:5-6, MSG)

   Job has grown from an understanding of God that he has been taught by others, to a personal relationship that helps inform his understanding.

   Our understanding and relationship with God often change during our life times. As young children, our families and Sunday school teachers teach us what we are to believe, but there often comes a time in our lives when something we have been taught about God no longer make sense to us. Individuals respond differently to this challenge to their faith. Some just walk away, never to return to trusting in God, believing that God does not exist. Others struggle, searching the scriptures, reading various writers who talk about God, Jesus Christ and faith, and eventually coming to their own understanding of the Holy Trinity.

   There are a couple of things that can impact someone’s journey through this struggle. For those who are open to discussing their faith and the struggles they are having, a more mature believer can often be a good sounding board, helping direct the struggler to texts or individuals that can help guide them to a deeper understanding of and a closer relationship with God. Trying to dictate to these individuals that there is only one way to believe flies in the face of the reality of today’s world of many denominations, yet there are those who have been taught that to even begin to question and explore their faith is to deny having faith to begin with. Such obstruction to the explorations of individuals can result in them walking away from their faith, possibly never to return.

   Job shows us that we can attain a deeper relationship with God, but it requires us to look at our faith and see the cracks that suggest there might be more than we understand. When something about faith makes no sense to us, we shouldn’t just toss it out, rather, we should explore, speaking with believers we respect and seeking guidance to understand what the Bible has to say and how we might integrate our new understanding into our own faith walk.

   Too often pastors and teachers assume we need someone to tell us what and how to believe and are not prepared for legitimate questions we might raise. I remember how difficult it was to get someone to teach a high school Sunday school class when I was Sunday school superintendent years ago. The teenagers included the pastors’ sons and the boys were willing to ask and struggle with the questions they had, sometimes challenging what the teachers believed. There was also the octogenarian who asked, what difference does it make if Mary was or was not a virgin.

   When we struggle with questions of faith, it doesn’t mean we don’t believe, it means we have questions with which we struggle and we need someone we can talk with who is willing to struggle with us and seek with us so that we can come to a new, deeper faith that will carry us through the difficult times, just as Job struggled with his own understanding of faith and came to a deeper understanding of God due to his struggles.

   Job is not the only one to struggle with faith. God is not going to disconnect from us if we struggle with our faith. God wants a personal relationship with us. Jesus came into the world to bring that relationship to reality and create a bridge between the world and God. Our struggles indicate a desire for a closer relationship and should be encouraged. If you have questions, struggles don’t be afraid to ask. If you come to me, I am willing to help you find answers if I can’t answer your questions. I am willing to sit with you and encourage you in your struggle so that the faith you have can be deepened and your relationship with God deepened. Faith doesn’t mean easy answers, it is about a relationship that often has been honed through difficult times. It is about seeking answers to our questions and through our struggles growing deeper in our understanding and thus in our faith.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:
   Leader: Alleluia?           Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!           Response: Hear our prayer!

Joys:
   Tim and Cathy are beginning the process to adopt Baby K
   Harvest time
   Pastor Ami has an interview at NEADS beginning the process of matching with another Ministry Dog

Concerns:
   Baby K's parents
   Bob and Chris Clark
   Gabe and Betsy in Houston
   Depressed friend with a 15 year old cat, that is not doing well, and suffering from COVID isolation
   Those struggling with depression exacerbated by COVID
   Young man struggling with addiction
   Kids @ school being bullied, particularly those who are differently abled

Pastoral Prayer                                            Nancy C. Townley
Why is it that we are afraid to cry aloud our need to God? We sit in our darkness and cry and complain about the dire circumstances that have overtaken us. Yet, when given the opportunity to approach the Savior who offers us light and healing, we cower in the darkness, not daring to believe that healing and light are possible for us. The darkness of our souls invades all of our lives; it colors our attitudes and determines our actions. Lord Jesus, come and shine your light not only on us, but in us and eventually through us. Break the barriers we have erected against peace, freedom, and hope. Bathe us in the light of love, and we shall become bearers of that incredible light for others who dwell in darkness. As we receive the light from you, give us courage and confidence to reach out in compassion and service in your name. For we ask this in Jesus’ Name. AMEN.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God (Job 42, Mark 10)                               A. R. Sawtelle
God is with us in the good times and the bad. Job suffered through many things, but he continued to walk in faith. In the end, he was rewarded with more children, crops, herds, and flocks. Blind Bartimaeus had faith that, with the help of Jesus, restored his vision. Both of them praised God for the gifts they had received. What about us? Do we have faith that keeps us connected to God through the difficult times? Let us offer our gifts of thanksgiving for that with which God has blessed us.

*Doxology            ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”               UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674, Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH , Public Domain, CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer (Job 42, Ps 34, Mark 10)                                  B. J. Beu
Mighty God, just as you restore sight to the blind
and benevolence to the afflicted,
use these offerings to provide refuge for the lost
and mercy for those who suffer.
May our gifts find those who cry out in their need
and who seek you with their whole hearts.
We ask this in Jesus’s name,
the name above all names. Amen.

*Hymn to Send Us into the World:       “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”           UMH 110
Words: Martin Luther, ca. 1529; trans. By Frederick H. Hedge, 1853, (Ps46)
Music: Martin Luther, ca. 1529; harm from The New Hymnal for American Youth, 1930
Tune: EIN FESTE BURG
CCLI# 42964, CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org,
Used by permission

Benediction

Unless otherwise noted, liturgy by B. J. Beu, from the Abingdon Worship Annual 2021, © 2020 by Abingdon Press. Found at MinistryMatters.org. Used by permission.
Pastoral Prayer (alt.) by Nancy C. Townley found at MinistryMatters.org. Used by permission

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Church Conference – Our church conference will be held via Zoom/telephone on Monday, October 25, 2021at 7:00 pm. The SPRC will meet with the DS at 6:15 pm, also by Zoom/telephone. Please let Pastor Ami or the church office know if you do not have access to Zoom and would like to either participate from the church via Pastor Ami’s Zoom link or would like to use you phone and call/be called by someone who has Zoom access.

Conference Request – from: Pastor David Arruda, temporary emergency response coordinator for the New England Conference - UMCOR Cleaning Kits and Hygiene Kits – Due to the number of storms in the offing and the low inventory of these supplies, churches are asked to create and store (until the first of next year) these kits in anticipation of possible need in parts of our Annual Conference. Links to UMCOR Website for contents: https://umcmission.org/umcor-cleaning-kit/
https://umcmission.org/umcor-hygiene-kit/

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
   Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
   The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
   New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
   Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
   Resources for responding to systemic racism
   A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
   Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
   Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
   Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
September’s Collection through Sept. 20th: $1,265

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
20TH Sunday after Pentecost
October 10, 2021                                               Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Centering Words (Mark 10)                                       Mary Petrina Boyd
It is not what we do that saves us. It is the mercy and grace of God, poured out in love. The first shall be last, for God’s love turns our expectations upside down.

Opening Hymn:                “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”              UMH 103
Words: Walter Chalmers Smith, 1867 (1 Tim. 1:17)
Tune: Welsh melody from Canaidau y Cyssegr, 1839, adapt. by John Roberts
Tune: St Denio, CCLI # 124466, Public Domain
CCLI License # 11554317, Streaming License: 20810329
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Call to Worship                                               Mary Petrina Boyd
L: Come and worship.
P: God is here.
L: Listen for God’s word.
P: It is alive and active.
L: Draw near to the source of mercy.
P: The God of grace is with us.

Prayer of the Day (Job 23, Heb 4)                                   Mary Petrina Boyd
There are days, O God,
   when we feel far from your presence.
We long for you,
   yet we feel no response, no closeness.
Give us the strength to cry out in pain,
   speaking our truth.
Give us the courage to complain,
   even when there is no response.
In the emptiness,
   we long for your presence.
We wait, O God, for you.
We know that you are the source of all mercy and grace.
We trust that you will help us in times of need. Amen.

Scripture Readings:
Job 23:1-9, 16-17
Psalm 22:1-15
Hebrews 4:12-16
Mark 10:17-31

Message
Job continues to suffer from his sores and his losses, but now he also suffers from the comments of his friends who try to convince him he has sinned and thus deserves all that has happened to him. Job, on the other hand, continues to declare his integrity and now seeks to face God who has brought this upon him.

Have you ever been angry with God over something that has happened? Job is angry. His children are dead. His crops, herds and flocks are gone, and now his health has been destroyed and he is mad.

So often we hear, the patience of Job, as we talk of the patience of a “saintly” person, but quite frankly, Job was not patient, he was just as angry as any of us would be, but he still trusted God. Our language today would be a little more harsh, perhaps, but we are no more nor less human than Job. When life gives us what we believe is a raw deal, we react, then later, we worry what God will think.

If we look at today’s Psalm, we are reminded of the words Jesus spoke from the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” As Jesus quotes from this Psalm, we are reminded that even for him, things did not go smoothly. Yes, Jesus had a special connection with God, but even for him, in the midst of agony, there is a sense that he does not feel God’s presence with him at this instant in time.

You see, that’s the thing. We want God’s presence when things are going badly, but we don’t seem able to sense that presence, so we want to think that God has abandoned us.

Have you ever put on headphones or worn earplugs and had someone try to speak to you from another room? You may not hear anything or if you do, it may be garbled.

Sometimes difficult times make it difficult for us to hear or feel God’s presence. Our ability to sense God is dampened by the noise of the troubles surrounding us just as the headphones dampen the sounds around us. We sometimes must get through the difficulties before we can see God’s presence with us during them. – have you ever heard the poem, “Footprints in the Sand”? It is a reminder that during the darkest times, when we think God has deserted us, God is actually closest to us, we just are unable to recognize that presence.

God is not some sniveling weakling, unable to take our shouts of despair and pain. In fact, in reading the Psalms, there are some that speak to the psalmist inability to “find” God. We are not alone in our struggles. We are not the first, nor are we likely to be the last to complain that God doesn’t listen, doesn’t hear, doesn’t care.

Were we to read the remainder of Psalm 22, we would hear the psalmist praising God for hearing the voice of the psalmist. God came to his aid and the psalmist praises God not only for that but for all the things God has done to help those who call upon God’s name.

We are a “Burger King” society. We have lost the patience that goes with agrarian societies of ages past, exchanging that patience for a demanding culture that wants things our way and wants them now. We have been so bombarded by the advertising world promising us that if we buy this product or join this club all of our problems will be solved; we’ll be happy, healthy and have nothing to worry about.

Sorry to burst your bubble, but life is not fair, it is not easy and the purchase of those goods or services are not really going to make it that much, if any, easier. God is with us. That is the reality. God is in it with us for the long haul.

Job knew this, trusted that God had not deserted him, was not punishing him, but he was frustrated that God was not answering. Why do bad things happen to good people? God alone truly understands. Humanity tries to understand an inscrutable God, but falls far short. We try to explain it saying, “God is testing us.”, or “It is the consequences of sin.”, or the many other platitudes we come up with, but in reality, we know bad things happen to good people, that is just the way it is. We don’t know why some seem to get good things no matter how bad they are while others get bad things no matter how good they are.

Faith teaches us to trust in God, no matter how difficult the situation. Jesus, in the garden prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.” During times of trial and tribulation, we too may pray this same prayer, but, just as Jesus continued to the cross, so too may we have to continue through the difficult times, just a Jesus seemed to feel deserted by God, so too may we feel deserted by God. But, just as the Resurrection occurred on Easter because Jesus was never deserted, so too will there be a time when we will realize God’s presence with us, no matter how dark the preceding night.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:   Leader:
Alleluia?                  Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!              Response: Hear our prayer!

Celebrations:
   Jean is back
Phone call from friend
   Seeing neighbor’s chickens following me around yard
   Elsie is a great, great grandmother

Petitions:
   Rebecca
   Bob & Chris Clark
The disasters occurring worldwide and the people in their paths
Baby K’s birth parents
Migrants facing difficult times

Pastoral Prayer                                            Nancy C. Townley
God of infinite patience and wisdom, we come to you with so many things that claim our time, our energy, our resources, our very lives. We are easily drawn away from serving you by the enticements of the world for wealth, ease, and comfort. Just like the young man in the scriptures, we are owned by our possessions, held captive by our treasures. You continue to offer to us healing and hope. You seek to transform our lives from captivity to freedom in witness and service. We look at the world in which there is so very much warfare and strife, anger and hatred, and we easily become overwhelmed by the needs and the stresses. Help us to place our lives and our trust in you, knowing that with your help, many wonderful things can be accomplished which will provide hope and peace for others and ourselves. Give us courage and strength to truly be your disciples. For we ask this in Jesus’ Name. AMEN.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God (Mark 10)                                  Mary Petrina Boyd
Jesus challenged the rich man to sell what he had and give to the poor. He challenges us today to be generous in our giving, trusting God’s provision for our lives.

*Doxology            ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”               UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674, Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH , Public Domain, CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer (Mark 10)                                          Mary Petrina Boyd
Generous God, we bring you our gifts today.
We recognize that all we have comes from you.
May these gifts bring hope to places of pain and need.
We want to be followers of Jesus,
   who leads us from greed into service.
We offer ourselves. Amen.

*Hymn to send us into the world:       “When We Are Called to Sing Your Praise”           TFWS 2216
Words: Mary Nelson Keithahn, Music: Trad. English melody
Words © 2000 Abingdon Press, admin. By The Copyright Co.
Tune: Kingsfold , CCLI# 3409507 , CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329, Musician: UMCDiscipleship.org,
Used by permission

Benediction

Unless otherwise noted, liturgy by Mary Petrina Boyd, from the Abingdon Worship Annual 2021, © 2020 by Abingdon Press. Found at MinistryMatters.org. Used by permission.
Pastoral Prayer by Nancy C. Townley found at MinistryMatters.org. Used by permission

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Please have all church reports in to the church office by Monday, October 11.

Ad Council Meetings--Second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 on zoom.

Finance Committee Meetings—Friday before the 2nd Tuesday at 10:30 on zoom.

Church Conference – Our church conference will be held via Zoom/telephone on Monday, October 25, 2021at 7:00 pm. The SPRC will meet with the DS at 6:15 pm, also by Zoom/telephone. Please let Pastor Ami or the church office know if you do not have access to Zoom and would like to either participate from the church via Pastor Ami’s Zoom link or would like to use you phone and call/be called by someone who has Zoom access.

Church Leadership – Forms for Church Conference - I have sent out forms via e-mail. If you need a hardcopy, let me know. Most forms are fillable on-line, so are better done that way, but can be filled out by hand and I can do the on-line version if necessary. Please submit your reports as soon as reasonably possible as I need to complete the Church Conference Booklet and send it to the DS in time for it to arrive a week prior to the meeting. I would like to mail it by October 14th if at all possible. Thank you!

Save the date! – October 14, 2021, Bishop’s Day on the District – beginning at 7:00 pm, in-person and by Zoom. Details and location pending.

Upcoming Lay Servant Courses

BASIC Course: An Introduction to Lay Ministry – St James UMC in Proctorsville, VT - starting on Sunday, October 17 at 12:30. This class will be taught by Pastor John Hawkins and will go for 5 weeks. Participants are responsible for buying their own book, Basic Course Participant’s Book, and registration*.

Those whom we love – those present with us and those from whom we are

separated . . .

The prisoners, and those held captive physically, mentally, or spiritually . . .
The sick and the suffering . . .
Those who care for the sick, both medical caregivers and families who wait and watch with them . . .
Those who mourn the loss of loved ones, the loss of freedom, the loss of security, the loss of a livelihood, or the loss of a sense of order and control . . .
Those with more questions than answers, and all who long for your guiding light for their path . . .
The lonely, the isolated, and those who long for a loving touch . . .
Those whose remaining days on this earth are few, and for those walking in the valley of the shadow of death . . .
Those whom we too easily forget, and those whose needs are known only to you . . .

[God of compassion, hear our prayers;
fill us with your grace, and inspire us to be instruments of mercy and hope,
for we pray in Christ’s name. Amen.]

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

*Hymn to send us into the world: “Let Us Break Bread Together on Our Knees” (v.3) UMH618

GOING FORTH
(said or sung or read silently)
[When we are living, it is in Christ Jesus,
and when we’re dying, it is in the Lord.
Both in our living and in our dying,
Somos del Senór, Somos del Senór
(We belong to God, we belong to God.)]

In these days of anxiety and uncertainty,
may we go forth in Christ’s name into all our interactions (digital or otherwise)
as a people of hope.

[May we be for the world the body of Christ, broken and shared to be a blessing for all.]
May God bless us and keep us.
May God’s face shine upon us and be gracious to us.
May God look upon us with kindness and give us peace. [Amen.]

Unless otherwise noted, worship elements today by B.J. Beu from The Abingdon Worship Annual 2021, October 3, 2021, Copyright © 2020 Abingdon Press. Found @MinistryMatters.com. Used by permission.
Pastoral Prayer by Nancy C. Townley, from Worship Connection, October 3, 2021 @ MinistryMatters.com. Used by permission
Invitation to the Offering by Amy B. Hunter from Worship Elements, September 26, 2021 @ MinistryMatters.com. Used by permission.
Offering Prayer by Deborah Sokolove, from Worship Elements, October 3, 2021 @ MinistryMatters.com. Used by permission.
Love Feast Liturgy ©2020 by The Order of Saint Luke
Prepared by Beth Fender, OSL; Elizabeth Moore, OSL; and Dwight Vogel, OSL
Permission granted for reproduction in print or on the web by including this permission statement

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Church Conference – Our church conference will be held via Zoom/telephone on Monday, October 25, 2021at 7:00 pm. The SPRC will meet with the DS at 6:15 pm, also by Zoom/telephone. Please let Pastor Ami or the church office know if you do not have access to Zoom and would like to either participate from the church via Pastor Ami’s Zoom link or would like to use you phone and call/be called by someone who has Zoom access.

Church Leadership – Forms for Church Conference - I have sent out forms via e-mail. If you need a hardcopy, let me know. Most forms are fillable on-line, so are better done that way, but can be filled out by hand and I can do the on-line version if necessary. Please submit your reports as soon as reasonably possible as I need to complete the Church Conference Booklet and send it to the DS in time for it to arrive a week prior to the meeting. I would like to mail it by October 14th if at all possible. Thank you!

Save the date! – October 14, 2021, Bishop’s Day on the District – beginning at 7:00 pm, in-person and by Zoom. Details and location pending.

Upcoming Lay Servant Courses

BASIC Course: An Introduction to Lay Ministry – St James UMC in Proctorsville, VT - starting on Sunday, October 17 at 12:30. This class will be taught by Pastor John Hawkins and will go for 5 weeks. Participants are responsible for buying their own book, Basic Course Participant’s Book, and registration*.
Life Together in the United Methodist Connection (United Methodist Polity) - Beginning Wednesday, September 29, at 6:30 p.m., Rev. Greg Smith will facilitate the advanced course. Beginning Wednesday, September 29, at 6:30 p.m., Rev. Greg Smith will facilitate the advanced course.

To register for a course, please complete the registration form and return it with $15 (check payable to GMLSM) to Dawn Hill-Fleury (address is on the form).

Resource Day with Bill McKibben – Saturday, October 16, the Commonwealth East District is hosting a resource day with Bill McKibben. What Can We Still Do? Climate Change and the Need for Action. It will be held via Zoom from 11:00 – 1:30. Registration is required in order to get the Zoom link.

Conference Request – from: Pastor David Arruda, temporary emergency response coordinator for the New England Conference - UMCOR Cleaning Kits and Hygiene Kits – Due to the number of storms in the offing and the low inventory of these supplies, churches are asked to create and store (until the first of next year) these kits in anticipation of possible need in parts of our Annual Conference. Links to UMCOR Website for contents: https://umcmission.org/umcor-cleaning-kit/
https://umcmission.org/umcor-hygiene-kit/

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
September’s Collection through Sept. 20th: $1,265

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev. Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

Thank you so very much for
helping to put on our
last-for-the-year,
Sizzlin’ Chicken!!!
***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
18TH Sunday after Pentecost
September 26, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Opening Hymn:    “Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above”               UMH 126
Words: Johann J. Schütz, 1675; trans. By Frances E. Cox, 1864 (Dt. 32:3)
Music: Bohemian Brethren’s Kirchengesänge, 1566; harm. By Maurice F. Bell, 1906
Tune: Mit Freuden Zart
Public Domain
CCLI# 7106112       CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329   Musician: UMCDiscipleship.org   Used by permission

Call to Worship    (Psalm 124, James 5)       Amy B. Hunter
If it had not been God who was on our side,
the troubles of our world would have swallowed us whole.
If it had not been God who was on our side,
the sorrows of our times would have swept us away.
Are any among us suffering?
Come and pray.
Are any among us cheerful?
Come sing songs of praise.
Are any among us sick?
Come and ask for healing.
Our help is in our God,
the One who made heaven and earth.
Call upon God, creator and rescuer.
God is on our side.

Prayer of the Day    (Psalm 124, Mark 9)       Amy B. Hunter
Eternal God, you create us and you rescue us. Be here with us now. Help us know how much we need you. Teach us that no other power can support us like your power. As you share your power with us, teach us to be Christ to the world, proclaiming your reign for all people. As you lavish your love upon us, help us receive that love and offer it to the world, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture Reading:
Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22
Psalm 124
James 5:13-20
Mark 9:38-50

Message
   I have to admit, every time I see Esther come up in the lectionary, I am a bit frustrated. It usually is one or two Sundays with only a few verses of this story of the history of Purim, a Jewish Holy Day of celebration, a story of how God used a woman to save the Jews of her time. If you have not read Esther or if it has been a long time, I highly recommend reading this Hebrew (Old) Testament story of court intrigue and faith. You may also note that “God” is never mentioned by name in this story.

“If it had not been the Lord who was on our side,” so opens Psalm 124. While it is a “Song of Ascents. Of David,” a song sung as people went up to the temple in celebration of David’s defeat of the enemies of Israel, it could almost be a song from Esther.

   Esther lived in perilous times of exile and, when forced into King Ahasuerus’ harem, she hid her nationality. Though a favorite of King Ahasuerus, to approach the king could mean death, yet Esther did just that, after spending time in fasting and prayer, she approached the king with a plan in mind. We enter the story after she has already had the king and Haman to diner once.

   God uses the places we are to accomplish that which God desires. God wants good for God’s people and when we are faithful, God uses us and our circumstances to further the introduction of God’s reign on earth.

   Throughout today’s scriptures, we hear the call to faithful living. From Esther’s triumph over Haman to the call by James to pray, sing songs of praise and seek healing, we are called to a life of faithful living. Even Jesus, in speaking with the disciples, calls us to faithful living by calling us to “cut out” those things that cause us to sin, be it eye or hand or foot.

   So, what does faithful living look like?

   Esther shows us one way. Even though the name of God never appears, we see Esther listening to the advice of her cousin who has raised her, then when the chips are down, she prays and fasts, listening for guidance from God how to go about this thing her cousin is asking her to do. So, prayer and fasting might be a part of faithful living.

   Prayer is what helps us to connect to God, to hear that which God is saying to us. Fasting is less about “giving up something,” and more about freeing us from the labor of preparing and eating meals and giving us more time to focus on God. It is also a practice that, when we are hungry, we are reminded to stop and meditate on God’s word for us.

   James also talks of praying, particularly praying when we are suffering. As we look around us, as we listen to the news, as we walk through our neighborhoods or through the woods, we are invited to pray. Pray for the people whose homes you pass on your daily walk, asking God’s intervention on their behalf. Pray for the environment, for the plants and animals who are suffering from the effects of climate change as you walk through the forests and along the rivers, streams and lakes. Pray for the situations you see arise in the news, whether it is about a natural disaster, violence in the workplace, school or neighborhood, or is about some other situation of suffering or disparate. When we see news stories worthy of celebration, when we encounter situations in our neighborhoods for which we should celebrate, James tells us to sing songs of praise. We are after all United Methodists. We often sing our theology. This is a time we can sing our praises to God for answered prayer, for thanksgiving for always being present.

   Walking in faith can call us to some challenges. When we pray for healing, we should pray with the expectation of that healing, but in all things, we should also pray for God’s will to be done. When we pray with true belief, we can move mountains, stop the rain, do many wonders, but we must pray with true faith and trust in God.

   A faith filled life does not do things that might cause another of weaker faith to stumble in their faith. A faith filled life welcomes people of all persuasions in the place where they are and then helps them to see the presence of Jesus in what they do. Rather than condemning someone for a belief different from our own, a faith filled life walks with a person, showing through their love and actions what we believe and seeking to understand where the other person may be coming from before helping them to understand why we may differ. It opens up wonderful, sometimes scary discussions that may challenge us, but may also bring us to a place of deeper understanding of our own beliefs.

   We often hear, “be in, not of the world.” We live in a world filled with chaos, violence, fear and distrust. God invites us to transcend those human emotions and actions that go with such a situation and trust in God. God does not mean it as an act of “superiority,” but as an act of faith. When we live in faith; when we fully trust in Jesus and the message of salvation he brought; when we seek to be like Jesus, we may invite challenge and controversy as did he, but we will also have God on our side, giving us the words to speak that can heal and transform.

   As we study the scriptures and spend time in prayer, we are better prepared to not be of the world, to not be drawn down into the quagmire of self-righteousness, judgement and discord that often is a part of today’s world. It is not easy, and there will be challenges, but when we are truly in Christ, when we know deep in our hearts that “God is on our side,” we will be ready when presented with a situation such as Esther’s, where she had to trust in God’s protection as she reached out to the king for recognition and a chance to save her people.

Amen.


Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:   Leader:
Alleluia?           Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Celebrations:
       Time with Baby K
       Last hummingbird has said good-bye
   Petitions:
       Maurice (Patrick’s father)
       Rebecca
       Bob & Chris Clark
Gabe and Betsy in Houston
Those under threat of natural disaster
Gayle & Ashley Clifford
Shelly Messenger, Shureen’s daughter, collapsed during race – home and doing okay now
7&8 graders at Oxbow struggling with bullying by upper classmen
Families of Philo Kennedy, Bernard Ouellet, & Allen Clark
Migrants facing difficult times
Snuggles (dog) moving to new home
Town Office workers catching heat for things they have no control over

Pastoral Prayer

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God   (Esther 7 & 9, Psalm 124)    Amy B. Hunter
Jesus Christ is on our side, offering us the love of God—a love that gives us all we have, a love that makes us all we are. Jesus Christ is with us in every circumstance, suffering with us when we are in trouble, and rejoicing with us when we are glad. The generosity of Christ calls us to lives of gratitude and generosity. In Jesus Christ we are given new life. Let us celebrate this life by giving generously to the work of God’s redeeming love.

*Doxology    ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”               UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674
Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH
Public Domain
CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer   (Esther 7 & 9, Psalm 124, Mark 9)    Amy B. Hunter
Giving God, we can never match your generosity.
When we are in need, you are at our side, present to us even in our darkest moments.
You rescue us from harm.
Make us into a people who celebrate your goodness, drawing others into the celebration of your many blessings.
Receive our offerings, even if they are as small as a drink for someone who thirsts.
Transform them into the mystery of your reign here and now on earth, in the name of Jesus, your greatest gift, amen.

*Hymn:        “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”                   UMH 127
Words: William Williams, 1745; Trans. From the Welsh by Peter Williams and the author, 1771
Music: John Hughes 1907
Tune: CWM Rhonda
Public Domain
CCLI# 1448
CCLI License # 11554317       Streaming License: 20810329
Musician Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org   Used by permission

Benediction

Unless otherwise noted, liturgy today by Amy B. Hunter, from MinistryMatters.com, From “The Abingdon Worship Annual,” edited by Mary J. Scifres and B.J. Beu, Copyright © Abingdon Press.
ANNOUNCEMENTS

Church Leadership – Forms for Church Conference - I will be sending out forms via e-mail in the next few days. If you need a hardcopy, let me know. Most forms are fillable on-line, so are better done that way, but can be filled out by hand and I can do the on-line version if necessary. Please submit your reports as soon as reasonably possible. The dates/times of church conferences is pending, but the sooner we finish our reports, the less we will be rushing at the last minute to complete. Thank you!

Trustees are asking for help with mowing the grass around the church and parsonage needs to be cut at least every two (2) weeks, depending on rain patterns sometimes more frequently. Tim would appreciate some help from folks that are able to push a mower around. It takes a bit over an hour to cut all of the grass. Please contact Tim Marcy, tpmarcy@hotmail.com or his cellphone: 715-416-0857 for more information or to sign up.

Growing Relational Food Ministries in Our Communities – Resource Day with Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Magill
Register now for a special webinar workshop featuring keynote speaker Pastor Liz Magill along with speakers from 4 of our Vermont congregations on Saturday, September 25 from 9:00 a.m. – noon via Zoom. This event is for lay people as well as clergy – encourage a group from your congregation to participate!

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
August’s Collection to Date: $4,000
Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
17TH Sunday after Pentecost
September 19, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

A Future with Hope
This last Sunday of the series offers a time of celebration and naming of hope for the future. We sing and speak of the day when all will be one, when all will be fed, when all will be loved. We imagine what the reign of God looks like and commit anew to live that out as disciples of Jesus.

Opening Hymn:    “I Sing the Almighty Power of God”                       UMH 152
Words: Isaac Watts, 1715
Music: Trad. English melody; arr. By Ralph Vaughan Williams, 1906
Tune: Forest Green
CCLI #738058
Public Domain
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Call to Worship    (Psalm 33)
L: Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
P: it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
L: Praise the LORD with the harp;
P: make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre.
L: Sing to him a new song;
P: play skillfully, and shout for joy.
L: For the word of the LORD is right and true;
   he is faithful in all he does.
P: The LORD loves righteousness and justice;
   the earth is full of his unfailing love.
L: Let us worship God!

Prayer of the Day
Wondrous Lord, you who art our help and shield, to you we lift our hearts and songs of praise and celebration, for you are always with us, you always reach out to us, offering us Love and guidance in all that we do. We come before you acknowledging our failure to always trust in you, and sometimes failing to step out in trust to do those things do you call us to do. You who are ever loving and merciful have seen fit to send your Son, that we might know the depth of your love and mercy. As we worship you this day hear our songs of thanksgiving and praise and see the truth of our hearts, amen.

Scripture Reading:
1Chronicles 29:14-16
Psalm 33:1-5, 18-22
Acts 2:25-26
Matthew 9:27-31

Message
And so, we come to our final week of our series of “A Future with Hope.”  As we have considered the wonder of how God created a small, nondescript seed and from it grew a tree, a bean plant, a thing of beauty, we have also looked at how God not only brings hope into our own lives, but uses us to share that same hope with others.
We are invited to celebrate today, to sing praises to God who has done and will do such wondrous things in and through us.  Our Psalm invites us to sing our praises to God, for it is a right thing so to do.  As we listen to the news of continued cases of COVID in our own country as well as around the world, as we hear of countries once more slicing their borders to travelers for fear they will bring new variants into their already desperate medical settings where many countries struggle to have vaccines to protect their people, it is easy not to see hope for the future.
Yet, God is still with us.  God who created has not abandoned us, but offers us a place of solace, of support, and of strength.  In our reading from Acts 2, Peter reminds us of David, a shepherd chosen by God to become king; a shepherd whom the former king, Saul, tried to kill on numerous occasions; a military leader who refrained on more than one occasion from killing Saul, because Saul was the anointed king.  David is the one to whom God promised that a descendant would sit upon throne in perpetuity and through Jesus, God fulfilled that promise.  David celebrates God’s presence with him and his trust in God despite the difficulties he faced and that he must trust God’s promise, never to actually see the fulfillment of the promise.  We are called to trust in God and to celebrate God’s presence among us, not knowing whether we will see the fulfillment of God’s promise while we are upon the earth or not.
I like the way Peterson in, The Message, puts it as Jesus is talking to the blind men asking for healing, “Do you really believe I can do this?”, and, after the blind men respond, “Why, yes, Master!" Jesus tells them, "Become what you believe." As he touches their eyes.
We must believe we have a future with hope, we must celebrate it.  If we are told “Become what you believe.,” what will we look like?  Will we be a powerful presence for God in our community, sharing God’s hope with others or will we be a nursing home, waiting to die because we believe we are inadequate, too old, to poor, too few in number to have an impact?
I invite you to dream.  Dream large.  As the title of Rebecca Simon Peter’s book says, “Dream Like Jesus.”  We should have dreams as big and as focused on God’s will as Jesus did.  Faced with 5,000 plus hungry people, Jesus didn’t bat an eye.  He invited his disciples to play a part in the miracle as he feed all of them from five loaves and two fish.  We are invited to be a part of God’s miracles in our community and the world.  We are invited to believe that we have a future filled with hope, then encouraged to live out that future in our dreams and in our actions.
God has placed us in this place, at this time, in order to fulfill God’s plan for our future and the future of Bradford, VT.  We are a people who have come from numerous places to arrive at where we are today both physically and spiritually.  In that way, we are all nomads, itinerants on a journey to the next stop, the next opportunity to which God is calling us.
Take a brief period.  Close your eyes.  Take a couple of deep breaths as you listen for God and as you blow out that which is holding you back.  What do you see in the future for Grace UMC?  Don’t let your concerns of age, economics, or anything else limited your dream, for if God is calling us to it, God will provide the means for us to accomplish it.  Dream, then write it down.  Prayer over it for the next week or so and if you continue to feel God calling us to something – even if you think, “we can’t do that” – share it with some of our leadership team or with me so we can begin the process of living into the hope that God has for our future.  Amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:   Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,   Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!
   Celebrations:
       Getting to see family (despite at a funeral)
       Thanksgiving for the beauty of the weather and changing season
       Balloons in all their colors hovering in honor of Brian Boland
       Sizzlin’ Chicken
       Visiting family and having chance to visit home church in process
   Petitions:
       Family of Brian Boland
       Family of Jean DiBattisto
       Maurice (Patrick’s father)
       Rebecca – broke her foot
       Bob & Chris Clark

Pastoral Prayer
We give thanks to you, O Lord, for your presence among us, for your love and your mercy toward us, and for your guidance always available to us. You who created the mountains, the valleys, and the streams; who placed the stars, moon and sun in the sky, always present always loving God. To you we offer our prayers celebration this day. We give you thanks for the seasons that mark the passage through the years. We give you thanks for the colors that brighten the fall and the quiet restfulness of the winter. We give you thanks that you are always willing to show us the way in which we can best serve the world around us, and we give you thanks for the willingness of your disciples to step out in faith and trust the pathway you have placed before us. Mighty one, you who are the Great Physician, place your hand upon those who are struggling with the many diseases that ravage our world this day. Relieve their pain, relieve their distress, and help them to know your healing will bring comfort and wholeness to their minds and their bodies. Help us to stand strong against injustice and evil in our world. Show us the way to be peacemakers in a world with a bent for violence. Teach us how to bring about changes that will help heal the world of it's brokenness and create a new world where all people may know your love and your help, amen.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

*Doxology    ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”               UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674
Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH
Public Domain
CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer
You gave us all that we have, almighty and glorious God, it is only right that we offer back to you a portion of that which you have given us, that it may be used to spread your wisdom, your love, your mercy, to all the world. Bless and multiply these offerings that they may be enough to fund your ministries in our community and in the world, amen.

*Hymn:    “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee”                       UMH 89
Words: Henry Van Dyke, 1907; st. 4 alt. 1989
Music: Ludwig van Beethoven.
Tune: Hymn to Joy
Public Domain
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Benediction
Go forth this day to a future filled with hope for God is with us, God will guide us, and God Will provide for us when we walk in God’s paths.

Theme & opening words for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Church Leadership – Forms for Church Conference - I will be sending out forms via e-mail in the next few days. If you need a hardcopy, let me know. Most forms are fillable on-line, so are better done that way, but can be filled out by hand and I can do the on-line version if necessary. Please submit your reports as soon as reasonably possible. The dates/times of church conferences is pending, but the sooner we finish our reports, the less we will be rushing at the last minute to complete. Thank you!

Trustees are asking for help with mowing the grass around the church and parsonage needs to be cut at least every two (2) weeks, depending on rain patterns sometimes more frequently. Tim would appreciate some help from folks that are able to push a mower around. It takes a bit over an hour to cut all of the grass. Please contact Tim Marcy, tpmarcy@hotmail.com or his cellphone: 715-416-0857 for more information or to sign up.

Growing Relational Food Ministries in Our Communities – Resource Day with Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Magill
Register now for a special webinar workshop featuring keynote speaker Pastor Liz Magill along with speakers from 4 of our Vermont congregations on Saturday, September 25 from 9:00 a.m. – noon via Zoom. This event is for lay people as well as clergy – encourage a group from your congregation to participate!

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
August’s Collection to Date: $4,000

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

Thank you so very much for
helping to put on our
last-for-the-year,
Sizzlin’ Chicken!!!

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
15TH Sunday after Pentecost
September 5, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.
The Remembering
I thank my God every time I remember you. — Philippians 1:3

The rings of a tree offer us a vision of the passage of time. We have a need to mark time, moments of significance. We remember the people and events of our lives that made their mark on us, transforming us into who we are, and we remember and honor the people and events of our church’s life. This is a living saints day and a celebration of the family tree.

Opening Hymn:        “O God, Our Help In Ages Past”            UMH 117
WORDS: Isaac Watts, 1719 (Ps. 90)
MUSIC: Attr. to William Croft, 1708; harm. By W. H. Monk, 1861
TUNE: ST ANNE
CCLI #43152
PUBLIC DOMAIN
MUSICIAN: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission
L
Call to Worship    (Ps 104)           A. R. Sawtelle
L: Praise the Lord, O my soul.
   P: O Lord my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty.
L: Praise God who created the earth and all that is in it,
   P: the skies, the waters, the lands, the creatures.
L: The earth shall never move from its foundations,
   P: for God has set it in place, that it might never move from the pathway God created for it.
L: Praise the Lord, O my soul.
   P: O Lord my God, you are very great.
   We worship and praise you with our whole hearts.

Prayer of the Day                    A.R. Sawtelle
We remember you, O God, the Creator, the God of Abraham, Moses, and Jacob. You came into the world in the form of a man, to walk among us, to teach us, to show us the pathways of love, but your love was a threat to the status quo, and so you were crucified. We cry in the remembrance of the pain and anguish which you suffered, but you turned our mourning into dancing and light as you rose again on Easter, proving your power over sin and death. We gather this morning to remember and to worship, giving thanks to you in the power of your names, Creator, Savior, Sustainer. Amen.

Prayer of Confession                   A.R. Sawtelle
Merciful God, you created us in your own image and called that creation good. Throughout the Bible we read of your love for your people and your desire to be in right relationship with them. We look at the history of the church throughout the generations and we claim the legacy they have left us, but we often fail to acknowledge the fullness of that legacy, choosing to remember the things we know will please you and failing to acknowledge our past failings. Gracious One, we confess that we are not always looking to what serves you the best, but what makes us less uncomfortable. Help us to look at ourselves through your eyes, to see ourselves, our fears, our anger, our weakness through your eyes and help us to turn ourselves around that we my lead lives of righteousness that help others to connect with your love and mercy. Amen.
A time for silent, personal confession

Assurance of Pardon
When we confess our sins to God, truly repenting and seeking to live lives reflecting God’s love and mercy, we are forgiven, for Jesus came into the world that we might be set free from slavery to sin and death. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.
In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.
Glory to God!

Scripture Reading:

Psalm 104:1-24
Philippians 1:3
Luke 23:39-43, 24:28-35

Message

We are now in week nine (9) of our “A Future with Hope” series. It is a time of looking back, of remembering. Were we to look at the rings of a tree, we would see they are of various widths, helping us to discern good years and more difficult years, times of adequate rainfall and nutrition and years of drought and poor nutrition.
   The psalm this morning celebrates the wonders of creation and all that God did in the creating of the earth, a telling of the history and of the gift.
   Our building tells us stories of times of plenty, the building of the original sanctuary, the sawing asunder of the building and the addition of 10 feet to the back of the sanctuary, the addition of the towers, the addition of the former gathering space now known as the Peckett Parlor and the upstairs classrooms and most recently the space we now call “The Gathering Space” with the classrooms and storage areas beneath. This tells the story of times of growth, of hope for the future as the need to expand the building to house the current congregation and the expectations for the future were lived out as well as times of ministry in and around the community.
   But, what about the people of this congregation? As we look back, who do we remember as those who helped us to grow in the faith, who helped us to recognize Jesus in the breaking of the bread and the sharing of the cup?
   The roots of this congregation are deep in Methodism and the assurance of grace John Wesley preached. Our roots go back to one of John Wesley’s housekeepers, Margaret Appleton, who was strongly influenced by him. Margaret Appleton married Giles Peckett, a widower with three (3) children and the family emigrated from England to Haverhill, NH in 1774, then in 1780 moved to Mooretown, VT, later renamed Bradford. Margaret and Giles welcomed people into their home to share the gospel message. After the death of Giles, Margaret continued to speak to her neighbors about the Wesley’s doctrine of grace and accountability as she shared with them from the copy of Wesley’s works they had in their home.
   The first preaching happened in 1797 in the Peckett home and later moved to the nearby schoolhouse on the Southern Plain (now called the Lower Plain.) Methodism continued to grow from there and finds us over 200 years later still gathering on the Lord’s Day to hear the scriptures read and preached, not only in Bradford, but in many towns throughout the region, for Maw Peckett was instrumental in the early training of many circuit riders in Vermont and surrounding areas.
   There have been numerous preachers since that long ago service in the Peckett home. Who are some of the ones still remembered for their service to this congregation?
   In the early days, people were placed in classes for spiritual care and accountability between the times of the coming of the preacher. We have gotten away from this practice that shares the care of the congregation as well as holding people accountable for their Christian walk among the laity with support from the appointed pastor, but several years ago Christ Cares groups were established to encourage mutual support and exploration and discussion of scripture, though there is a lack of mutual accountability. Sadly only one of these groups is still active and it is shrinking as its members are called home to the church triumphant. As Rev. Cheryl mentioned last week, Reunion Groups in the Emmaeus, Cursillo, and Tres Dias communities still continue to hold one another accountable.
   The Psalm this morning calls us to “Bless the Lord, O my soul.” To praise God for the things God has done since creation began. The sun, moon and stars marking the cycle of days, months and years; the birthdays, anniversaries and other markers that follow to this day.
As we think about the past, who are people we think about who had a great impact on the faith of this congregation?
   As we move closer to our own time, what are names that come to mind that continue to guide that faith tradition? What are some of the ministries that have grown from the ideas of these individuals? (UM ARMY, Food Shelf support, showers available for the homeless or those whose wells are dry, at one time were able to provide temporary housing for homeless…)
   As we look toward the future, what is the legacy we hope to leave the next generation of Methodists in this region? What is the Holy Spirit calling us to do? How will we build toward that future?
   We are in the midst of a pandemic, but that should not stop us from looking to the next stage of our journey, the next steps as we look to the future with hope and trust in God’s guidance.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer                    A.R. Sawtelle
Holy, gracious, and loving God, giver of all good things, we come before you today remembering those who have gone before us, celebrating the legacy they have left us and wondering about the legacy we ourselves may leave. Embolden us to be a people filled with your hope, strengthened by your love, taught by your own hand. Let us walk in righteousness the pathway you have placed before us. Help us to be the people you have called us to be, a light to those who are stumbling in the dark, a beacon of hope in a world filled with violence and disaster. May your healing touch be on all those who suffer this day. Heal the land, earth, water, and air that have been damaged by our thoughtless actions. May your love overwhelm us as we remember how Jesus walked among humanity, healing the sick, bringing sight to those both physically and spiritually blind, and setting free those who were captive in body, mind, and spirit to the ravages of sin. Free us too that we may carry your love throughout the land. Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God
What gifts do you bring this day to offer unto God? Will you offer yourselves as well as your dollars and cents? The saints of the past have established a legacy through their financial gifts as well as their gifts of time, devotion, and talents. What legacy will future generations attribute to this generation?

*Doxology        ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”       UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674
Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH
Public Domain
CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer
Giver of life, of all that we have, we turn to you in thanksgiving and praise, offering to you these small tokens of our thanks; offering ourselves as servants in your call to carry your love to the world. May our gifts be found acceptable in your sight, and may they help enrich the lives of others. Amen.

The Great 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 trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Receiving the Bread and Cup

*Hymn:            “Rise Up, O Men (O Saints) of God”           UMH 576
WORDS: William F. Merrill, 1911
MUSIC: William H. Walter, 1894
TUNE: FESTAL SONG
Public Domain
CCLI #87156
MUSICIAN: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

*Benediction
The God of love is always with you, giving you life and breath, filling you with strength and peace. Go forth in the beauty and majesty of God to share love with the world. Amen.

Theme & opening words for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Trustees are asking for help with mowing the grass around the church and parsonage needs to be cut at least every two (2) weeks, depending on rain patterns sometimes more frequently. Tim would appreciate some help from folks that are able to push a mower around. It takes a bit over an hour to cut all of the grass. Please contact Tim Marcy, tpmarcy@hotmail.com or his cellphone: 715-416-0857 for more information or to sign up.

Goshen Church – last service of the season will be held September 5.

Next Sizzlin’ Chicken September 11, 2021 – Speak with Connie, Dottie or Rebecca about what our needs are for volunteers or food.

Growing Relational Food Ministries in Our Communities – Resource Day with Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Magill
Register now for a special webinar workshop featuring keynote speaker Pastor Liz Magill along with speakers from 4 of our Vermont congregations on Saturday, September 25 from 9:00 a.m. – noon via Zoom. This event is for lay people as well as clergy – encourage a group from your congregation to participate!

Faith after Doubt, Book Discussions with Brian McLaren
At the 2021 New England Annual Conference, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar recommended that we read Brian McLaren’s latest book, Faith after Doubt: Why Your Beliefs Stopped Working and What To Do About It. There will be 4 live book discussions with McLaren this fall on Mondays Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct 4 at 8:00 p.m. Reserve those dates, read the book, and plan to participate!

Open Spirit Task Force hosts online gatherings
The Open Spirit Task Force is continuing to examine who New England Methodists are and who we are called to be. This summer, they will host a weekly presentation about their work and open conversation about the future of our denomination and Conference. Please join a Conferencewide presentation via Zoom each Tuesday beginning at 6:30 pm now through Aug. 31, 2021. Click the link to register; plan to attend one session, choosing the time most convenient for you: Register for a Zoom OSTF gathering
Find more information on the Open Spirit Task Force
Find the event on the Conference calendar

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
August’s Collection to Date: $4,000

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
14TH Sunday after Pentecost
August 29, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.
The Sustaining
Growth happens in spurts, yes, but growth is also continuous throughout life. How are we sustaining health and wholeness in our lives and in the lives of others? Do we understand the reciprocity of all creation, the interdependence we have on each other and on the earth? How do we sustain and offer habitat to those who have none?

Opening Hymn:        “I Love You, Lord”               TFWS 2068
WORDS: Laurie Klein (Ps 35:9)
MUSIC: Laurie Klein
TUNE: I LOVE YOU LORD
CCLI #25266
MUSICIAN: America’s 25 Favorite Praise and Worship Choruses
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: # 20810329
Used by permission

Call to Worship                        C. D. Heater
L: Holy One, in the chaos of conflict in our world
P: You call us to quiet the noise within and without.
L: Holy Spirit, in the chaos of conflagration
P: We seek Your flame of holy fire to beat back the firestorms of dissention and worry.
L: Lord Jesus, amidst the chaos of change around us
P: Guide us in prayer and praise to bring changed hearts and minds to worship.

Prayer of the Day                C. D. Heater
God, you have given us this creation with the challenge to sustain it. Forgive us where we have failed and guide us as we seek a new tomorrow for your children who come after us. Grant us the wisdom and courage to see swords turned to plowshares and sun-cracked fields into green gardens. This we ask in the name of Jesus through the power of your Holy Spirit. Amen

Scripture Reading:    Romans 15:4 meditate on Scripture       John 9:31   worship
Acts 14:23   prayer & fasting       Philemon 5-7   witness
Acts 15:2   Christian conferencing

Message   "Fathering and Mothering"               Rev. Cheryl Heater

The last several weeks many of you and Pastor Ami have had a bean plant to tend. Last week Pastor Ami spoke about bearing – how our plants reach a level of maturity to bear fruit – beans in this particular case, and those of you who received a bean plant may have been more or less successful in mothering or fathering the plant, but once the first leaves were out, your job was not over. I think of it as mothering and fathering, but those terms bring different images to mind. Mothering seems more nurturing, like feeding and watering a plant, while fathering has been more muscular, like howing and pruning and chasing invaders. I won’t question your progress, but that activity may help us consider something I call soul tending.

We live in a precarious time surrounded by Covid delta variant, horrific weather events, and fire as well as political upheaval – and hellishly hot weather. We no longer feel as safe and secure as we may have not so long ago.

WE may feel some of the uncertainty our founding fathers and mothers felt. John Wesley, the founding father of Methodism, struggled with his faith, even though he was a pastor. But once he experienced the certainty of Christ’s presence in his life, he wanted to help others gain an assurance of God’s love and sustaining grace/presence in their lives.

Wesley laid out cornerstones added to communion which Pastor Ami discussed a few weeks ago. Wesley knew it was not enough to say Jesus died for our sins to right the ship that humans had poked holes in from Adam to the present day. People needed more than head knowledge, they needed to experience a personal connection with God in Christ. So, Wesley picked up and carried the ball to the primary source: Scripture – then prayer, fasting, worship, and Christian conferencing [or Christian conversation]. All of this was geared toward holding one another accountable to an awareness of God’s very presence in their lives and actions. Remember Jesus’ words from John 18:20 –
“For wherever two or three are gathered in my name, there am I with them.” Reading and searching the scriptures is pivotal to Christian growth and worship

Wesley’s world was much like our pandemic-ridden world. Diseases and childbirth or a simple cut could take the lives of young and old – and all ages between. Life was hard, and the Means of Grace [ways to get in touch with God’s Son and Spirit] helped folks get closer to the source of life, love, and an assurance of something beyond death.

Worship was a pivotal means of connecting to God’s unmerited favor – [i.e., grace]. It included prayer, scripture reading, and interpretation of scripture. Even today, prayer is a major part of worship. It includes the mnemonic A.C.T.S

Adoration – Look at the first hymn today: “I Love You, Lord”
Confession – especially prominent in our communion liturgy, but also today
       the proverbial “I really screwed up, God.”
Thanksgiving – [God sightings, Offertory prayer] not like the pharisee who thanked                God he was not like others]
Supplication – [Concerns, Seeking Forgiveness – hopefully after sincere confession]
It can be as simple as praying for someone/something we see on TV, etc. Maybe you witness an accident or other situation and offer a simple prayer for that situation.

Prayer is also linked with Fasting, another Means of Grace. We think of it as a Lenten activity, but did you know the United Methodist bishops and most members of the Cabinet fast on Fridays. Fasting is a way of helping us get more laser focused in our prayer life.

Another Means of Grace is Christian Conversation or Christian Conferencing – holding one another accountable to our walk with Jesus. Examples are found in the Cursillo, Walk to Emmaus, Tres Dies, etc. Reunion groups gather on a regular basis to pray, share, worship, commune, and hold one another accountable to their walk with Christ and Christian witness.

Now John Wesley, known as the Father of Methodism, preached and wrote theological material based on his more “muscular” shepherding approach to Christian faith. But it was his brother Charles who made it “stick” with his poetry set to the music of the day – what we might call bar room bop – Popular secular tunes of the 1700s are the tunes we sing in worship today. It was Charles Wesley’s poetic theology set to music that continued to carry the Methodists with gusto in worship. Like so many women who support successful spouses, Charles got little recognition, because he didn’t write theology. Charles Wesley’s hymnology nurtured and sustained Methodism from its infancy. So, John did the “Fathering,” and Charles carried the “Mothering,” support role.

While this was taking place in England, another sustaining force crossed the ocean and landed in NH first. Then the former housekeeper for John Wesley moved from Haverhill, NH to Bradford, VT with her husband Giles Peckett. We know her today as Mother Margaret Appleton Peckett – the Mother of Methodism in all of VT and upstate Eastern NY. It was Mother Peckett who trained Methodist Circuit riders who spread the faith from VT to NY, PA, and as far as Texas. From a little cabin on the Lower Plain of Bradford this woman invited people of any Christian faith to worship in her home. And with the books she brought from England as a result of her contact with John Wesley, she had a little seminary on the south end of this community. After training all those young circuit riders, I guess you could rightly call her not only a Mother of Methodism, but a real Sustainer and nurturer.

So, it seems we have a tough act to follow here. But, you know, I have always believed that somehow the spirit of Mother Peckett abides with us, continuing to urge us onward. If she could do it with Native Americans journeying up and down the Connecticut River near her front yard, who are we to be faint of heart? She planted and nurtured the faith from her cabin on the plain. What are we going to do now to sustain the faith that she so skillfully planted?

There are a good many folks from the Walk to Emmaus living in this area still who have the power to push onward. There are Christ Cares folks who continue to make the love of God know to neighbors. But what more can be done to reach out in a time when it is difficult to meet indoors even for worship.

Today you are doing a very Methodist thing: singing in worship. It may sound silly – but I think that is a radical step in the right direction to sustain the faith so long a part of our heritage.

Amen

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer                    C. D. Heater
Gracious God, Creator and Sustainer, we thank you for the ways in which you care for us. We may not always recognize the value of the sun rising every day to give us light, then setting and giving us respite from the heat in summer. You give us the seasons which offer rest for the creation and the new birth of living things that burst forth to sustain us. You have provided us with food, water, family, friends, and guides who help us to see You and respond with gratitude. Forgive us when we take those things for granted. Most of all, we give thanks for Jesus, the Redeemer who continues even today to point the way when we go astray. We still hear the words to disciples: "When you pray, say...."

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

*Doxology        ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”       UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674
Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH
Public Domain
CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

*Offering Prayer                   A.R. Sawtelle
We give you thanks, O God, for the many and wonderful things you have done in our lives. We offer these small tokens as gifts of thanksgiving. Use them, use us, to share your hope with others; to the glory of your name, amen.

*Hymn:                “And Are We Yet Alive”           UMH 553
Words: Charles Wesley, 1749
Music: Johann G. Nageli; arr. Lowell Mason, 1845
Tune: Dennis SM
Public Domain

* Benediction:            “Go Now in Peace”               UMH 665
WORDS: Natalie Sleeth, 1976 (Lk. 2:29)
MUSIC: Natalie Sleeth, 1976
TUNE: GO IN PEACE
CCLI#194317
MUSICIAN: Connie Linnell
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: # 20810329
Used by permission



Theme & opening words for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Trustees are asking for help with mowing the grass around the church and parsonage needs to be cut at least every two (2) weeks, depending on rain patterns sometimes more frequently. Tim would appreciate some help from folks that are able to push a mower around. It takes a bit over an hour to cut all of the grass. Please contact Tim Marcy, tpmarcy@hotmail.com or his cellphone: 715-416-0857 for more information or to sign up.

Goshen Church – last service of the season will be held September 5.

Next Sizzlin’ Chicken September 11, 2021 – Speak with Connie, Dottie or Rebecca about what our needs are for volunteers or food.

Growing Relational Food Ministries in Our Communities – Resource Day with Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Magill
Register now for a special webinar workshop featuring keynote speaker Pastor Liz Magill along with speakers from 4 of our Vermont congregations on Saturday, September 25 from 9:00 a.m. – noon via Zoom. This event is for lay people as well as clergy – encourage a group from your congregation to participate!

Faith after Doubt, Book Discussions with Brian McLaren
At the 2021 New England Annual Conference, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar recommended that we read Brian McLaren’s latest book, Faith after Doubt: Why Your Beliefs Stopped Working and What To Do About It. There will be 4 live book discussions with McLaren this fall on Mondays Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct 4 at 8:00 p.m. Reserve those dates, read the book, and plan to participate!

Open Spirit Task Force hosts online gatherings
The Open Spirit Task Force is continuing to examine who New England Methodists are and who we are called to be. This summer, they will host a weekly presentation about their work and open conversation about the future of our denomination and Conference. Please join a Conferencewide presentation via Zoom each Tuesday beginning at 6:30 pm now through Aug. 31, 2021. Click the link to register; plan to attend one session, choosing the time most convenient for you: Register for a Zoom OSTF gathering
Find more information on the Open Spirit Task Force
Find the event on the Conference calendar

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
August’s Collection to Date: $4,000

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
13TH Sunday after Pentecost
August 22, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.
The Bearing
Once planted and nurtured and cared for and tended, our gardens overflow. All of creation is pregnant with possibilities, bearing fruit and flower. The goodness must be shared with all. The diversity and variety of creation is cherished and celebrated. We vow to honor that diversity, to share God’s overflowing goodness and to hold, carry, and bear the burdens of any.

Opening Hymn:        “The Church’s One Foundation”       UMH 546
Words: Samuel I Stone, 1866 adapt. By Laurence Hull Stookey, 1983
Music: Samuel Sebastian Wesley, 1864
Tune: Aurelia
Adapt. © 1983 The United Methodist Publishing House
CCLI Song Select # 1607188
Music: Dean McIntyre
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 2081032
Used by permission

Call to Worship                    A.R. Sawtelle
L: God has sent you out
P: God has called us to make disciples of Jesus
L: God has produced fruit in you.
P: We come bearing the fruits of our labors, blessed by God’s love.
L: Let us worship our wondrous God.

Prayer of the Day                    A.R. Sawtelle
You call us to bear fruit as you send us into the world, O God. As we come this day, we celebrate that which you have made alive in us and in our ministries. Strengthen us, encourage, and fill us, that we may bear good fruit and that all may come to know the hope we have in you, amen.

Scripture Reading:
Luke 6:43-45
John 15:14-17
Philippians 1:9-11

Message           What kind of fruit will we bear?

We are at week seven on our series, “A Future with Hope.” We started with seeds, acknowledging the hope inside, though what that hope looked like was hard to discern from the seed. Our plants are now growing and flourishing. The actual plants we started are getting larger and will eventually bear fruit, though today we are actually talking about “bearing” before our plants are quite there.
Let’s talk today about how our personal and corporate plants look. Are we strong healthy plants, bearing good fruit or are we unhealthy plants bearing wormy fruit?
While the strawberry harvest is over and the blueberries are waning, the corn harvest has now begun. The farm stands are selling fresh corn, only recently harvested from the fields. Most folks would like to strip some of the husk away so they can see that the corn is fully filled out and not full of worms, while the farmers ask that you not strip the husk away, reveling the delicate kernels to the drying and damage of the air. We are asked to trust the farmers only selected the best of corn to offer to their customers.
Was someone to strip away the outer husks, what sort of fruit would be found here are Grace? Would it be sweet and wholesome, teasing the taste buds as it is eaten, or would it be wormy and spoiled, something not fit for consumption?
Strong, healthy roots help to make a strong, healthy plant. When we are rooted in Jesus’ command to “love one another,” we have the basis for a healthy community life. If we root ourselves in selfish desire, or a desire to “look good” rather than in that love, our fruit will be less wholesome, less desirable.
When our ministries are done out of God’s love for us overflowing into our love for others, then those ministries will accomplish that which God desires them to accomplish. When they are based on a desire to “look good” in the community, they may work for a while, but ultimately, they will not accomplish God’s loving desire for the earth or for God’s people.
Those who have truly loved someone understand Eugene Peterson meaning in his, The Message, paraphrase of Philippians, “You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life, circumspect and exemplary.” True love for others is about using our heads, not just our hearts. It is about doing the best we can for others to support them and guide them, helping them to grow, not just giving them something because we can. It is about treating them with respect and not being showy about what we do.
Some of the better ministries make a place for those being ministered to, to walk and work beside those who would be in ministry. Such walking beside helps build relationships that go beyond the, “Hi, how are you?” stage. God created in relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit. God created humanity to be in relationship with God and one another.
If your son/daughter/spouse was being treated unjustly, what would you do? How would you react?
Jesus asks us to respond to injustice for others in the same way we would respond to injustice for our family members. When we love others, we treat them as family, having expectations, but also responding to situations that are impacting them in the same way we respond for those who are blood kin.
Jesus suffered injustice at the hands of the temple leadership and the government of his time. We are called to do better, to stand up to tyranny in its many forms, to stand with those who advocate for those suffering injustices and to do so with love for those who are suffering.
As we look at the world around us, at our community, at our country, what are the places we see God calling us to share the hope we have that others may also gain hope? We know we have a future with hope, as we trust in Jesus who called his hearers “friends.” As we trust that God loved us before we were even formed in our mothers’ womb, that God knew us and wanted what was best for us, let us share that love with others. Amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns

CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

   Celebrations:
       Heat wave is over
       Phyllis know she will be living with Stephanie
       Abigail has a new job, closer to home
   Petitions:
       Jean – at her mother’s doing better, but still a long way to go
       Mitch (Cathy’s 12 y/o nephew) surgery Friday
       Haiti – losses from earthquake with tropical storm pending
       Bob Clark
       Phyllis will not return to her home on Wrights Mountain
       Robby (Patsy’s son’s nephew) week old, having open heart surgery
       Rob (Bernice’s son) still no diagnosis
       Sarah and Fran moving this week
       Sarah C-H mother in law though vaccinated, now has COVID and in hospital

Pastoral Prayer                A.R. Sawtelle
Lord of mercy and of light, we come to you with thanksgiving for all you have done for us. We thank you for days of light and of rain that waters the earth; for the warmth of sun and the coolness of shadow and shade; for the gift of life and the wonder of the creation around us. We acknowledge your wisdom and power and look to you for safety and hope. Bring hope into the lives of those struggling with illness and pain; hope for those whose hopelessness has led to addiction and other forms of escape; hope for those struggling with mental health challenges. Shine you light of love into situations where violence is destroying lives, changing hearts and bring about your peace. Heal the earth almighty One, controlling the flood waters and the fires, cooling the record-breaking heat and bringing about a change of heart in those who abuse the land, water and air for their own power and enjoyment. Mighty One, we know that you are with us in both good times and bad. Help us to show others your abiding presence and grace, that they may come to find hope in you, amen.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God
What gifts do we bring to God who has made possible our ministries in our community? What gifts do we bring that those ministries may continue far beyond the time we remain here? God has given us gifts to help us bring hope to others, let us offer God our gifts of thanksgiving and praise.

*Doxology    ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”       UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674
Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH
Public Domain
CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Offering Prayer                   A.R. Sawtelle
We give you thanks, O God, for the many and wonderful things you have done in our lives. We offer these small tokens as gifts of thanksgiving. Use them, use us, to share your hope with others; to the glory of your name, amen.

*Hymn:        “God of Grace and God of Glory”           UMH 577
Words: Harry Emerson Fosdick, 1930
Music: John Hughes, 1907
Tune: CWM Rhondda
Public Domain
Music: Dean McIntyre
Used by permission

Benediction

Theme & opening words for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Trustees are asking for help with mowing the grass around the church and parsonage needs to be cut at least every two (2) weeks, depending on rain patterns sometimes more frequently. Tim would appreciate some help from folks that are able to push a mower around. It takes a bit over an hour to cut all of the grass. Please contact Tim Marcy, tpmarcy@hotmail.com or his cellphone: 715-416-0857 for more information or to sign up.

Goshen Church – last service of the season will be held September 5.

Our Lady – Rummage sale, Friday Aug 27, 9-3 & Saturday Aug 28, 9-12

Next Sizzlin’ Chicken September 11, 2021 – Speak with Connie, Dottie or Rebecca about what our needs are for volunteers or food.

Faith after Doubt, Book Discussions with Brian McLaren
At the 2021 New England Annual Conference, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar recommended that we read Brian McLaren’s latest book, Faith after Doubt: Why Your Beliefs Stopped Working and What To Do About It. There will be 4 live book discussions with McLaren this fall on Mondays Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct 4 at 8:00 p.m. Reserve those dates, read the book, and plan to participate!

Open Spirit Task Force hosts online gatherings
The Open Spirit Task Force is continuing to examine who New England Methodists are and who we are called to be. This summer, they will host a weekly presentation about their work and open conversation about the future of our denomination and Conference. Please join a Conferencewide presentation via Zoom each Tuesday beginning at 6:30 pm now through Aug. 31, 2021. Click the link to register; plan to attend one session, choosing the time most convenient for you: Register for a Zoom OSTF gathering
Find more information on the Open Spirit Task Force
Find the event on the Conference calendar

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
August’s Collection to Date: $4,000

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
12TH Sunday after Pentecost
August 15, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.
The Building
Our commitment to be part of one Body offers us the opportunity to build up the whole, strengthening and creating foundations of love and justice, faith and hope for the long term. What do we put our efforts into? Things that make a lasting difference? That offer stability and resources for the good of the whole earth?

Opening Hymn:    “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty”       UMH 64
Words: Reginald Heber, 1826 (Rev. 4:8-11)
Music: john B. Dykes, 1861
Tune: NICAEA
Public Domain
CCLI # 1156
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Call to Worship                (Dr. Marcia McFee)
Leader: In the beginning was God… (rumble, slap) and God begat the
rhythm and the rhythm begat everything else, and the
dance began.
People: As rhythm sounds, creation happens.
Leader: We are a people bound together through sacred sound.
People: As rhythm sounds, communion happens.
Leader: Our faith leads us to a world reverberating like a thousand different
thunders.
People: As rhythm sounds, we become one.
Leader: We are part of a rhythmic creation as we build God’s reign together.
People: As rhythm sounds, opposition ceases.
Leader: We are all companions of life’s rhythms in our stillness
and motion, in the sound and silence our souls are uplifted.
All: As rhythm sounds, we are
standing on sacred ground!

Prayer of the Day                (Ami Sawtelle)
God of rhythm and of life, guide the rhythm of our days and of our worship. May we be in sync with your rhythm of life as we carry your hope into the world each day. May our rhythms be in one accord as we lift our spirits in worship of you this day and may those rhythms be pleasing in your sight, amen.

Scripture Reading:

Ephesians 4:11-12

Message

There is a rhythm to our lives, be it the rhythm of the seasons, the rhythm of the sun, moon and stars, the rhythm of tides of ocean or of life, there is rhythm. Some rhythms have been around since the beginning of time, others are newly created causing a clash or crash when something or someone is out of sync.
The building of the body of Christ calls us to be “in sync” with God, that our rhythms keep us together, call us to be in sync with one another, to create beautiful harmonies, but how do we do that?
Our scripture passage today tells us of gifts that will help to build the body of Christ. Those with the needed gifts will be given us so that we can work on our rhythm, so we can work to serve God through our work and through our play, in rhythm, in sync, with Jesus Christ.
Jesus met with people of all walks of life, of various ethnic groups and shared the good news of God’s kingdom coming into the world. Jesus walked in harmony, in rhythm with God’s plan for redemption of all of creation. Whether the Samaritan woman at the well or the Syrophoenician woman, Jesus treated people outside the Jewish nation with respect.
There are those in many communities who feel those who call themselves Christian are not welcoming to them. They feel judged and pushed aside as many see them as unrepentant sinners. There are those within church circles who actively push against including people who see their gender identity as other than that which is on their birth certificate, creating clashes and crashes in the rhythm when the two groups meet.
Before I arrived, there was study and discussion around becoming a “Reconciling Congregation,” a congregation openly welcoming to those who identify as: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual and other forms of gender and sexual identity and understanding. The discussion into openly welcoming such persons can be a difficult process and disrupt the rhythms of the community. The welcoming of people of all races, ethnicities and other identifications that are created to separate one group from another can all create tension in the rhythms of the life of the congregation in which they are occurring.
At one time, the United Methodists claimed to have Open Minds, Open Hearts and Open Doors, inviting a wide range of people to be a part of creating a rhythm of welcome. Sadly, that can no longer be said of the denomination as a whole and many congregations in particular. In September, we will have an opportunity to vote on the Reconciling Statement created by the leadership of the congregation and whether we desire to become a Reconciling Congregation.
Christ calls us to love others as God loves us. A saying of John Wesley says, “Do no harm. Do good. Stay in love with God.” reminds us that in loving others we strive to not harm others, rather to do good for them, seeking what is best for ourselves and others rather than just for ourselves. The most important part of this quote though is, “Stay in love with God.” As we focus our love on God, we will catch onto the rhythms God is trying to teach us.
What gifts do we have within our congregation that may help us to better understand God’s rhythm? Are there those who are gifted teachers, willing to step out to guide new Christians to an understanding of the gospel message? Are there teachers willing to teach those more mature in their understanding of scripture and faith? Do we have others with gifts of hospitality, ready to welcome newcomers, inviting them into the life of the congregation so they too may learn the rhythms? What about children and youth, are we ready to welcome them in all of their diversity, struggles and with all of their questions about faith, inclusivity and God? Who will be the person they can go to with questions?
God will gift us with people to help guide us and to hold us accountable on our walk with Jesus. In fact some of them are sitting in the pews this morning, encountering this message on Zoom or reading it in their homes. The question is, will those with the gifts be willing to step up and step out of their comfort zones participating, in perhaps new ways, as we bring the message of God’s love to others.

Do you hear God calling to you, inviting you to participate in the ministries of this congregation? What is your place in the rhythmic harmonies, steady beat keeper or syncopater? What help do you need to find your place in the rhythms of the life of Grace UMC?

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Celebrations:
Bob Clark is now in rehab, but continues to need prayer
Jean
Petitions:
Family of Winter Rousso

Pastoral Prayer

Life giving God, we give you thanks for the joy of your presence in our lives as your son teaches us the rhythms that bring you joy. We give you thanks for birthdays and anniversaries, for children and the joy of their voices as they play in our parks and yards. Keep them safe from the pandemic, from the dangers of traffic and accident. Help them to grow strong and help us to teach them about you.
Holy and merciful God, your rhythm of life plays in our minds, inviting us to join in, but we hesitate. We have worked long and hard for that which we have and are ready to rest. We fail to live out the rhythms we hear from you sometimes and just want some time to focus on ourselves rather than giving more to others. Help us to find the rhythm that balances the lives that we have with the life in you that we desire. Help us to work toward a world where all people are seen as worthy of love and where we are a part of your rhythm of healing love. Forgive us when we miss the beat, when we disrupt your perfect rhythm and bring us back once more to the basic rhythms of life in you.
Healing God, we lift to you this day those who are still in the pathways of drought, fire and storm. We know that the storms are getting worse each year. Help us to change our world, to slow the global changes. Place your loving arm around those who are suffering from spiritual and mental anguish. Heal them and show them the light of your love. We know you walk the halls in the midst of the pandemic, your children are crying to you in their distress. Place your soothing hand upon their brow and your healing touch upon their hearts. Strengthen and comfort the families who anxiously wait for word of improvement. Heal those within our congregation who struggle with cancer and other illnesses, bring healing and strength to them and their families. Mighty one, as we go about our daily lives, help us always to err on the side of mercy and love.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God
What are you thankful for? Where has God touched your life? As we think about that brings us joy and peace, let us give our gifts of thanksgiving to God, to whom all things belong, and to whom we owe our very lives.

*Doxology    ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”       UMH 95
Words: Thomas Ken, 1674
Music: Attr. to Louis Bourgeois, 1551
Tune: OLD 100TH
Public Domain
CCLI # 56204
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Prayer of Dedication
Holy Trinity, to you we offer our gifts of thanksgiving and praise. Let them help the world to walk together in the rhythms of grace and love as you lead us into a future which you have planned for us, amen.

*Hymn:    “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing”           UMH 57
Words: Charles Wesley, 1739
Music: Carl G. Glaser, arr by Lowell Mason, 139
Tune: AZMON
Public Domain
CCLI #1369
Musician: Dean McIntyre
Used by permission

*Benediction

Theme. opening words & Call to Worship for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Trustees are asking for help with mowing the grass around the church and parsonage needs to be cut at least every two (2) weeks, depending on rain patterns sometimes more frequently. Tim would appreciate some help from folks that are able to push a mower around. It takes a bit over an hour to cut all of the grass. Please contact Tim Marcy, tpmarcy@hotmail.com or his cellphone: 715-416-0857 for more information or to sign up.

Green Mountain Earth Stewards present Virtual Vacation Bible School 2021
Join us virtually on August 20, 21, and 22 for Vacation Bible School. The focus will be on art, faith, and nature. There will be bible stories, songs, art projects, and nature activities. It will be geared toward ages 5-10. Registration information will be available by early August. If you would like more information or the registration link, please contact us at greenmountainearthstewards@gmail.com.

Goshen Church – last service of the season will be held September 5.

Piermont Church – Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of Piermont at the church on Saturday, August 21st. Barbecue 1-2, and music by Patrick Ross and the Fiddler’s Crew 2-4

Our Lady – Rummage sale, Friday Aug 27, 9-3 & Saturday Aug 28, 9-12

Next Sizzlin’ Chicken September 11, 2021 – Speak with Connie, Dottie or Rebecca about what our needs are for volunteers or food.

Faith after Doubt, Book Discussions with Brian McLaren
At the 2021 New England Annual Conference, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar recommended that we read Brian McLaren’s latest book, Faith after Doubt: Why Your Beliefs Stopped Working and What To Do About It. There will be 4 live book discussions with McLaren this fall on Mondays Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct 4 at 8:00 p.m. Reserve those dates, read the book, and plan to participate!

Open Spirit Task Force hosts online gatherings
The Open Spirit Task Force is continuing to examine who New England Methodists are and who we are called to be. This summer, they will host a weekly presentation about their work and open conversation about the future of our denomination and Conference. Please join a Conferencewide presentation via Zoom each Tuesday beginning at 6:30 pm now through Aug. 31, 2021. Click the link to register; plan to attend one session, choosing the time most convenient for you: Register for a Zoom OSTF gathering
Find more information on the Open Spirit Task Force
Find the event on the Conference calendar

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Peanut Butter, Meat, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please) – Items can be left at the church inside the door toward the Academy building or at parsonage and Pastor Ami will take them over if the Food Shelf is not open when you drop them by. There is a plastic box with a black lid on her porch for drop off if Pastor Ami is not home.

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
August’s Collection to Date: $4,000

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
10TH Sunday after Pentecost
August 1, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.
The Nurturing
“a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace.” (James 3:18)
We cannot abandon what we have planted. We must attend to our hopes, nurture them with living water in order to sustain growth. To attend over time is to know the fruit of discipline. What spiritual disciplines nurture our faith and hope? We affirm the abundance of God’s grace poured out for us and we ask God to let the waters of justice and righteousness flow freely.

Opening Hymn:        “Wash O God, Our Sons and Daughters”       UMH 605
Words: Ruth Duck, 1967 (Jn 3:3-8)
Music: Attr to B.F. White, 1844;
Tune: Beach Spring (Public Domain)
Copyrights: Words © The United Methodist Publishing Hours
CCLI Song Select #2613112
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: # 20810329

Call to Worship                    A.R. Sawtelle
L: Come, prepare the earth for planting,
   P: that the crop may be lush and rich.
L: Come, nurture and care for that which has been planted,
   P: that it may grow strong in the way God desires.
L: Come, open your hearts,
   P: that God may nourish and strengthen us to serve.
L: Come worship God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer.

Prayer of the Day                    A.R. Sawtelle
Creating, sustaining, nurturing God, we come before you today with thanksgiving and praise for the gift of life, for life sustaining ministries, and the gift of your Son, Jesus, who taught us how to live more closely to you, then gave his life that we might know forgiveness and have hope for new life in you, amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
   Celebrations:
       Larry Russ – wedding Aug 1
       Bumschick is doing the wedding
       Baby K – sitting up unsupported for a few seconds
   Petitions:
       Those who remain unvaccinated
       Bob B. Recovering from hip replacement
       Pat B.
       Ami
       Cheryl – chicken sitting with fox in the area, helping Ami
       Bob C. – Chemo in hosp., still unable to stand/walk on own
       Christ C.

CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer                A. R. Sawtelle
   God of hope, hear our prayers. We lift to you those who are struggling with mental and physical illness and injury. Fill them with your hope, that they may better serve you. Heal them through your power. We lift to you the many places who are struggling with the on-going pandemic, where lives are being lost due to the lack of availability of vaccines, where families are being devasted through loss of life and loss of income. Blow with your wind of healing grace, driving the virus from the shores where it is growing, forcing its submission to your might and power. Heal our world mighty One. Reverse the damage we have done in our arrogance and greed. Tame the storms that are further damaging the environment, spread your gentle rains over those places where drought and heat are threatening lives and livelihoods. Guide the leaders of our country, that they may find ways to work together for the betterment of our country and the world, seeking what is best for all rather than what will bring the more power and prestige. Gracious God, you have blessed us with life and a land able to sustain many and we give you thanks. We give you thanks that we might once more gather as a community to offer our prayers and praise. We give you thanks that you are always willing to sustain us in times of distress if we but seek you. We thank you that you hear our prayers, even the ones we keep safely locked in our hearts. In the name of your Son, our Lord, Jesus, we pray, amen.

Scripture Reading:
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Matthew 18-19

Message
Nurture, according to dictionary.com, is a verb meanings: 1) to feed and protect; 2) to support and encourage, as during the period of training or development; to foster; 3) to bring up; train; educate. As a noun it means: 4) rearing; upbringing; training; education, or the like; 5) development; 6) something that nourishes; nourishment, food.
When we nurture plants, we make sure they have what they need to grow. When I was in Iraq, a large part of discussions at the Governate (District) Departments of Agriculture was about inputs. What did they have and what did they need to get the next crop planted? Inputs: seed, fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides, were needed to bring in a harvest. Plants also need water for life, whether directly from rain or more often, in Iraq, from irrigation.
Our hopes, just like plants, need to be nurtured. Paragraph 122, The Process for Carrying Out Our Mission, says, “We make disciples as we: —nurture persons in Christian living through worship, the sacraments, spiritual disciplines, and other means of grace, such as Wesley‘s Christian conferencing.” (UM Book of Discipline, 2016, para 122, p. 94) We don’t necessarily use herbicides, fertilizer and pesticides, but we do use inputs, things that as we take them in, help to nourish our spirits and vanquish those things that can breakdown or destroy our hope. We need water as well, living water that only comes from God through God’s Son, Jesus. Remember the story of the woman at the well. When she asks Jesus why he would ask a Samaritan woman for a drink, he answers, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” (John 4:10, NRS) As we said, water is not the only necessary input, but it is an important one if we want to grow or if we want the seeds we plant to flourish. When we speak of spiritual needs though, we are speaking of our need for living water, that which comes from Jesus.
One of the ways we can nurture the seeds of hope is through the “Means of Grace.” Today we will focus on two of them, baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion, Eucharist). These two sacraments help to nurture those who come to them and strengthen them. John Wesley defines the means of grace as, “outward signs, words, or actions ordained of God, and appointed for this end—to be the ordinary channels hereby [God] might convey to [people] preventing, justifying, or sanctifying grace.” (Albert C. Outler & Richard P Heitzenrater, John Wesley’s Sermons: An Anthology, Compilation and Preface Copyright 1991 by Abington Press; p. 160, Para. II.1)
Baptism, “the sacrament of initiation and incorporation into the body of Christ,” is just the beginning. Once an individual has been baptized as an infant or as an adult, we, as the church, are to, “provide(s) the nurture that makes possible a comprehensive and lifelong process of growing in grace.” (Para 216, UM Book of Discipline 2016, p. 156) Thus, baptism first brings us into the family and then, the family is supposed to help nurture the baptized individual as we would any other member of the family, based upon their ability to take in and use that nourishment. The sacrament of baptism is a one time sacrament, for we believe that God is the One who acts, and thus there is no need to “re-baptize” someone if they have been baptized in the name of the Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When we were washed in the waters of baptism and our sins washed away, our spirits were renewed and we are nourished that we might resist the forces of evil.
Holy Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper and the Eucharist, is the second of the two (2) sacraments observed in the United Methodist Church. John Wesley, in his sermon, The Duty of Constant Communion, says this about receiving the Lord’s Supper as often as possible, “A second reason why every Christian should do this as often as he can is because the benefits of doing it are so great to all that do it in obedience to him; namely, the forgiveness of our past sins and the present strengthening and refreshing of our souls.” And, “The grace of God given herein confirms to us the pardon of our sins by enabling us to leave them. As our bodies are strengthened by bread and wine, so are our souls by these tokens of the body and blood of Christ. This is the food of our souls:…” (Outler & Heitzenrater, John Wesley’s Sermons: An Anthology, p. 502, para I.2. & I.3.)
Our souls need to be nurtured and nourished in order to have hope and to look to the future with hope. By being nurtured by the community, by being nourished by the Lord’s Supper, we can renew our hope and can participate in the renewing of the spirits of those who have lost hope. The sacrament of baptism is a one time renewal while the Lord’s Supper is one in which we may participate and be nurtured more frequently. As we remember our baptisms shortly, think about how it not only cleanses sins, but renews spirits. When we share in the family meal, the Lord’s Supper, through the prayer of Great Thanksgiving, we remember God’s actions in the world and God’s actions through Jesus Christ; we share the meal with Christ as Christ commands us to remember in the breaking of the bread and the sharing of the cup; and as we invoke the presence of the Holy Spirit in the epiclesis, we are physically and spiritually fed and nurtured.
In just a bit, we will gather once more around the table. We are invited to come with expectation and hope of a renewed relationship with God through this sacrament in which God reaches out to us, assuring us of God’s love for us and forgiveness we have received through God’s son, Jesus. Remember, in receiving God’s love, we are to share that love with others. Amen.

Prayer of Confession                       A.R. Sawtelle
   Almighty and wondrous God, we acknowledge that we have fallen short of your desires for our lives. We have failed to offer hope to those we deem unworthy. We have failed to work toward a world where all people may find hope for the future, where all people are acknowledged as worthy of education, jobs, healthcare, food, and shelter. Forgive us we pray for our shortcomings.
L: Wash us, O God,
P: That we may be cleansed of our sin.
L: Wash us, O God,
P: That we might walk in the light of your love.
L: Wash us, O God,
P: Create in us new hearts, worthy to serve you, to love you, and to worship you.
L: Through the power of Jesus’ love, your sins are forgiven, you have been washed clean and are ready to love and serve God. Amen.

Reaffirmation of Baptismal Covenant   (See insert)

Offering Our Gifts to God           A.R. Sawtelle
Gifts are given for thankfulness to the Creator, the Maker of all that is and that shall be. They are channeled through the church, a portion going to the General Conference of the United Methodist Church where they are combined with the gifts of others to fund ministries outside our local area. Our Mission Shares help pay the overhead of organizations like UMCOR which responds to disasters throughout the world. Some of our Mission Share giving comes back to the New England Annual Conference to help support ministries of the Conference as well as providing monies for the Ministerial Grant programs. Finally, some of the money remains local, allowing us to be in ministry in the local community.
Remember, your gifts may be sent by mail to the church office, the address is at the end of the bulletin, or by going to our website: bradfordumc.org, clicking on the donation link and following the instructions there. Thank you for your continued support of the ministries of our congregation.

Offering Prayer                   A.R. Sawtelle
   Giver of life and hope, receive these gifts, use them to nurture the ministries of our congregation as well as the greater church, that all may come to find hope in you, amen.

*Doxology    ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”       UMH 95

Holy Communion

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

*Hymn:    “They’ll Know We Are Christians”       TFWS 2223
Words: Peter Scholtes (John 13:34-35; Eph 4:4-6)
Music: Peter Scholtes
Copyright: © 1966 F.E.L Publishing, assigned 1991 to The Lorenz Corp.
Tune: St Brendan’s
CCLI Song Select # 22997
Used by permission.
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: # 20810329

Benediction

Theme for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Yes! We are beginning to do responsive readings, joys and concerns during worship and sing hymns. Per CDC guidance, we ask that if you are not immunized for COVID-19 you continue to wear a mask during worship. There will be a brief "Gathering Time" in the "Gathering Space" following worship with coffee and confections.

Finance Meeting August 6, 10:30 am At the church

Bishop on the District August 7 and 8
Bishop Devadhar will be visiting in our district on the weekend of August 7 & 8. We plan to have a district-wide potluck with him on Saturday, August 7, at the Shelburne UMC. This will be a chance not only to have conversation with our bishop but also to see each other “face to face”! Plan to start arriving at 4:30 and we’ll eat around 5:00 p.m. Please register in advance and indicate the number of people who will come with you.

Green Mountain Earth Stewards present Virtual Vacation Bible School 2021
Join us virtually on August 20, 21, and 22 for Vacation Bible School. The focus will be on art, faith, and nature. There will be bible stories, songs, art projects, and nature activities. It will be geared toward ages 5-10. Registration information will be available by early August. Youth who would be interested in helping to lead activities, please contact Sheri Smith: sherismith27@gmail.com.

Faith after Doubt, Book Discussions with Brian McLaren
At the 2021 New England Annual Conference, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar recommended that we read Brian McLaren’s latest book, Faith after Doubt: Why Your Beliefs Stopped Working and What To Do About It. There will be 4 live book discussions with McLaren this fall on Mondays Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct 4 at 8:00 p.m. Reserve those dates, read the book, and plan to participate!

Open Spirit Task Force hosts online gatherings
The Open Spirit Task Force is continuing to examine who New England Methodists are and who we are called to be. This summer, they will host a weekly presentation about their work and open conversation about the future of our denomination and Conference. Please join a Conferencewide presentation via Zoom each Tuesday beginning at 6:30 pm now through Aug. 31, 2021. Click the link to register; plan to attend one session, choosing the time most convenient for you: Register for a Zoom OSTF gathering
Find more information on the Open Spirit Task Force
Find the event on the Conference calendar

2021 Mission u
Mission u 2021 will take place online via Zoom July 24 & 31 and Aug. 7 & 11. Mission u provides opportunities for persons to grow in understanding of the mission of the church in the current world context as well as initiate opportunities for spiritual and educational experiences. Mission u is for women, men, youth, children. Learn about the 2021 studies and register at www.neumc.org/missionu

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
July’s Collection to Date: $2,108.02

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
10TH Sunday after Pentecost
August 1, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.
The Nurturing
“a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace.” (James 3:18)
We cannot abandon what we have planted. We must attend to our hopes, nurture them with living water in order to sustain growth. To attend over time is to know the fruit of discipline. What spiritual disciplines nurture our faith and hope? We affirm the abundance of God’s grace poured out for us and we ask God to let the waters of justice and righteousness flow freely.

Opening Hymn:        “Wash O God, Our Sons and Daughters”       UMH 605
Words: Ruth Duck, 1967 (Jn 3:3-8)
Music: Attr to B.F. White, 1844;
Tune: Beach Spring (Public Domain)
Copyrights: Words © The United Methodist Publishing Hours
CCLI Song Select #2613112
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: # 20810329

Call to Worship                    A.R. Sawtelle
L: Come, prepare the earth for planting,
   P: that the crop may be lush and rich.
L: Come, nurture and care for that which has been planted,
   P: that it may grow strong in the way God desires.
L: Come, open your hearts,
   P: that God may nourish and strengthen us to serve.
L: Come worship God, Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer.

Prayer of the Day                    A.R. Sawtelle
Creating, sustaining, nurturing God, we come before you today with thanksgiving and praise for the gift of life, for life sustaining ministries, and the gift of your Son, Jesus, who taught us how to live more closely to you, then gave his life that we might know forgiveness and have hope for new life in you, amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
   Celebrations:
       Larry Russ – wedding Aug 1
       Bumschick is doing the wedding
       Baby K – sitting up unsupported for a few seconds
   Petitions:
       Those who remain unvaccinated
       Bob B. Recovering from hip replacement
       Pat B.
       Ami
       Cheryl – chicken sitting with fox in the area, helping Ami
       Bob C. – Chemo in hosp., still unable to stand/walk on own
       Christ C.

CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer                A. R. Sawtelle
   God of hope, hear our prayers. We lift to you those who are struggling with mental and physical illness and injury. Fill them with your hope, that they may better serve you. Heal them through your power. We lift to you the many places who are struggling with the on-going pandemic, where lives are being lost due to the lack of availability of vaccines, where families are being devasted through loss of life and loss of income. Blow with your wind of healing grace, driving the virus from the shores where it is growing, forcing its submission to your might and power. Heal our world mighty One. Reverse the damage we have done in our arrogance and greed. Tame the storms that are further damaging the environment, spread your gentle rains over those places where drought and heat are threatening lives and livelihoods. Guide the leaders of our country, that they may find ways to work together for the betterment of our country and the world, seeking what is best for all rather than what will bring the more power and prestige. Gracious God, you have blessed us with life and a land able to sustain many and we give you thanks. We give you thanks that we might once more gather as a community to offer our prayers and praise. We give you thanks that you are always willing to sustain us in times of distress if we but seek you. We thank you that you hear our prayers, even the ones we keep safely locked in our hearts. In the name of your Son, our Lord, Jesus, we pray, amen.

Scripture Reading:
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Matthew 18-19

Message
Nurture, according to dictionary.com, is a verb meanings: 1) to feed and protect; 2) to support and encourage, as during the period of training or development; to foster; 3) to bring up; train; educate. As a noun it means: 4) rearing; upbringing; training; education, or the like; 5) development; 6) something that nourishes; nourishment, food.
When we nurture plants, we make sure they have what they need to grow. When I was in Iraq, a large part of discussions at the Governate (District) Departments of Agriculture was about inputs. What did they have and what did they need to get the next crop planted? Inputs: seed, fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides, were needed to bring in a harvest. Plants also need water for life, whether directly from rain or more often, in Iraq, from irrigation.
Our hopes, just like plants, need to be nurtured. Paragraph 122, The Process for Carrying Out Our Mission, says, “We make disciples as we: —nurture persons in Christian living through worship, the sacraments, spiritual disciplines, and other means of grace, such as Wesley‘s Christian conferencing.” (UM Book of Discipline, 2016, para 122, p. 94) We don’t necessarily use herbicides, fertilizer and pesticides, but we do use inputs, things that as we take them in, help to nourish our spirits and vanquish those things that can breakdown or destroy our hope. We need water as well, living water that only comes from God through God’s Son, Jesus. Remember the story of the woman at the well. When she asks Jesus why he would ask a Samaritan woman for a drink, he answers, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” (John 4:10, NRS) As we said, water is not the only necessary input, but it is an important one if we want to grow or if we want the seeds we plant to flourish. When we speak of spiritual needs though, we are speaking of our need for living water, that which comes from Jesus.
One of the ways we can nurture the seeds of hope is through the “Means of Grace.” Today we will focus on two of them, baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion, Eucharist). These two sacraments help to nurture those who come to them and strengthen them. John Wesley defines the means of grace as, “outward signs, words, or actions ordained of God, and appointed for this end—to be the ordinary channels hereby [God] might convey to [people] preventing, justifying, or sanctifying grace.” (Albert C. Outler & Richard P Heitzenrater, John Wesley’s Sermons: An Anthology, Compilation and Preface Copyright 1991 by Abington Press; p. 160, Para. II.1)
Baptism, “the sacrament of initiation and incorporation into the body of Christ,” is just the beginning. Once an individual has been baptized as an infant or as an adult, we, as the church, are to, “provide(s) the nurture that makes possible a comprehensive and lifelong process of growing in grace.” (Para 216, UM Book of Discipline 2016, p. 156) Thus, baptism first brings us into the family and then, the family is supposed to help nurture the baptized individual as we would any other member of the family, based upon their ability to take in and use that nourishment. The sacrament of baptism is a one time sacrament, for we believe that God is the One who acts, and thus there is no need to “re-baptize” someone if they have been baptized in the name of the Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When we were washed in the waters of baptism and our sins washed away, our spirits were renewed and we are nourished that we might resist the forces of evil.
Holy Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper and the Eucharist, is the second of the two (2) sacraments observed in the United Methodist Church. John Wesley, in his sermon, The Duty of Constant Communion, says this about receiving the Lord’s Supper as often as possible, “A second reason why every Christian should do this as often as he can is because the benefits of doing it are so great to all that do it in obedience to him; namely, the forgiveness of our past sins and the present strengthening and refreshing of our souls.” And, “The grace of God given herein confirms to us the pardon of our sins by enabling us to leave them. As our bodies are strengthened by bread and wine, so are our souls by these tokens of the body and blood of Christ. This is the food of our souls:…” (Outler & Heitzenrater, John Wesley’s Sermons: An Anthology, p. 502, para I.2. & I.3.)
Our souls need to be nurtured and nourished in order to have hope and to look to the future with hope. By being nurtured by the community, by being nourished by the Lord’s Supper, we can renew our hope and can participate in the renewing of the spirits of those who have lost hope. The sacrament of baptism is a one time renewal while the Lord’s Supper is one in which we may participate and be nurtured more frequently. As we remember our baptisms shortly, think about how it not only cleanses sins, but renews spirits. When we share in the family meal, the Lord’s Supper, through the prayer of Great Thanksgiving, we remember God’s actions in the world and God’s actions through Jesus Christ; we share the meal with Christ as Christ commands us to remember in the breaking of the bread and the sharing of the cup; and as we invoke the presence of the Holy Spirit in the epiclesis, we are physically and spiritually fed and nurtured.
In just a bit, we will gather once more around the table. We are invited to come with expectation and hope of a renewed relationship with God through this sacrament in which God reaches out to us, assuring us of God’s love for us and forgiveness we have received through God’s son, Jesus. Remember, in receiving God’s love, we are to share that love with others. Amen.

Prayer of Confession                       A.R. Sawtelle
   Almighty and wondrous God, we acknowledge that we have fallen short of your desires for our lives. We have failed to offer hope to those we deem unworthy. We have failed to work toward a world where all people may find hope for the future, where all people are acknowledged as worthy of education, jobs, healthcare, food, and shelter. Forgive us we pray for our shortcomings.
L: Wash us, O God,
P: That we may be cleansed of our sin.
L: Wash us, O God,
P: That we might walk in the light of your love.
L: Wash us, O God,
P: Create in us new hearts, worthy to serve you, to love you, and to worship you.
L: Through the power of Jesus’ love, your sins are forgiven, you have been washed clean and are ready to love and serve God. Amen.

Reaffirmation of Baptismal Covenant   (See insert)

Offering Our Gifts to God           A.R. Sawtelle
Gifts are given for thankfulness to the Creator, the Maker of all that is and that shall be. They are channeled through the church, a portion going to the General Conference of the United Methodist Church where they are combined with the gifts of others to fund ministries outside our local area. Our Mission Shares help pay the overhead of organizations like UMCOR which responds to disasters throughout the world. Some of our Mission Share giving comes back to the New England Annual Conference to help support ministries of the Conference as well as providing monies for the Ministerial Grant programs. Finally, some of the money remains local, allowing us to be in ministry in the local community.
Remember, your gifts may be sent by mail to the church office, the address is at the end of the bulletin, or by going to our website: bradfordumc.org, clicking on the donation link and following the instructions there. Thank you for your continued support of the ministries of our congregation.

Offering Prayer                   A.R. Sawtelle
   Giver of life and hope, receive these gifts, use them to nurture the ministries of our congregation as well as the greater church, that all may come to find hope in you, amen.

*Doxology    ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”       UMH 95

Holy Communion

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

*Hymn:    “They’ll Know We Are Christians”       TFWS 2223
Words: Peter Scholtes (John 13:34-35; Eph 4:4-6)
Music: Peter Scholtes
Copyright: © 1966 F.E.L Publishing, assigned 1991 to The Lorenz Corp.
Tune: St Brendan’s
CCLI Song Select # 22997
Used by permission.
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: # 20810329

Benediction

Theme for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Yes! We are beginning to do responsive readings, joys and concerns during worship and sing hymns. Per CDC guidance, we ask that if you are not immunized for COVID-19 you continue to wear a mask during worship. There will be a brief "Gathering Time" in the "Gathering Space" following worship with coffee and confections.

Finance Meeting August 6, 10:30 am At the church

Bishop on the District August 7 and 8
Bishop Devadhar will be visiting in our district on the weekend of August 7 & 8. We plan to have a district-wide potluck with him on Saturday, August 7, at the Shelburne UMC. This will be a chance not only to have conversation with our bishop but also to see each other “face to face”! Plan to start arriving at 4:30 and we’ll eat around 5:00 p.m. Please register in advance and indicate the number of people who will come with you.

Green Mountain Earth Stewards present Virtual Vacation Bible School 2021
Join us virtually on August 20, 21, and 22 for Vacation Bible School. The focus will be on art, faith, and nature. There will be bible stories, songs, art projects, and nature activities. It will be geared toward ages 5-10. Registration information will be available by early August. Youth who would be interested in helping to lead activities, please contact Sheri Smith: sherismith27@gmail.com.

Faith after Doubt, Book Discussions with Brian McLaren
At the 2021 New England Annual Conference, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar recommended that we read Brian McLaren’s latest book, Faith after Doubt: Why Your Beliefs Stopped Working and What To Do About It. There will be 4 live book discussions with McLaren this fall on Mondays Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct 4 at 8:00 p.m. Reserve those dates, read the book, and plan to participate!

Open Spirit Task Force hosts online gatherings
The Open Spirit Task Force is continuing to examine who New England Methodists are and who we are called to be. This summer, they will host a weekly presentation about their work and open conversation about the future of our denomination and Conference. Please join a Conferencewide presentation via Zoom each Tuesday beginning at 6:30 pm now through Aug. 31, 2021. Click the link to register; plan to attend one session, choosing the time most convenient for you: Register for a Zoom OSTF gathering
Find more information on the Open Spirit Task Force
Find the event on the Conference calendar

2021 Mission u
Mission u 2021 will take place online via Zoom July 24 & 31 and Aug. 7 & 11. Mission u provides opportunities for persons to grow in understanding of the mission of the church in the current world context as well as initiate opportunities for spiritual and educational experiences. Mission u is for women, men, youth, children. Learn about the 2021 studies and register at www.neumc.org/missionu

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
July’s Collection to Date: $2,108.02

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
9TH Sunday after Pentecost
July 25, 2021                                              Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and lighting our candle for peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

The Planting
Germinated seeds must be planted in order for roots to begin to dig deep in the soil. Is the soil in which we plant our hopes fertile? Inherent in the action of planting is an action of belief that something will come of our effort. Can we imagine what will be? This is a work of the people for the sake of those who will come. What are we planting for future generations?

Opening Hymn:        “Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above”                  UMH126
Words: Johann J. Schütz, 1675; trans. By Frances E. Cox, 1864 (Dt. 32:3
Music: Bohemian Brethren’s Kirchengesänge, 1566; harm. By Maurice F. Bell, 1906
Tune: Mi Freuden Zart
Public Domain
Musician: UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Call to Worship    (Psalm 1)
L: Blessed are those
P: who do not walk in the counsel of the wicked
L: or stand in the way of sinners
P: or sit in the seat of mockers.
L: But their delight is in the law of the LORD,
P: and on God’s law they meditate day and night.
L: They are like a tree planted by streams of water,
P: which yields its fruit in season
L: and whose leaf does not wither.
P: Whatever they do, prospers.

Prayer of the Day                                                (ARS)
Life giving God, we give you thanks for the richness of the soil, your Word, in which we are planted. As we worship this day, may our roots be more firmly planted in your Word, that we may grow into that which you created us to be. In the name of the One who came to show us the way to new life, Jesus Christ, we pray, amen.

Scripture Reading:
   2 Corinthians 9:6-12
   Matthew 13:3-9

Message
Soil, dark, loamy soil with just enough clay to help hold water, but not so much that it won’t drain, that is perfect soil for planting. Plants, even water lilies, need soil in which to put down roots and become strong and stable. Yes, I know of hydroponics, and it does work for smaller plants, but the larger the plant, the more it needs good soil to allow it to stand on its own as it grows upward toward God.

Jesus used parables about agriculture on a regular basis to help people understand. In the parable we heard today, we heard about a sowing practice that would be somewhat foreign to farmers today, but one which they would understand. With no machines to plant the seed, farmers would scatter seed by hand and it would land in a wide arch around them, sometimes on a path or road, sometimes amid rocks or weeds, but most of it on the fertile soil in which it was meant to grow. You heard the results of such planting practices, some got snatched up by birds so fast it had no chance while others popped up quickly then died or was choked out by the weeds. Only that which landed in the good soil truly produced.

Jesus used this parable to explain the different responses to his message. Through the years I have heard various sermons about the planting, but it all came down to planting in fertile soil.

But what does fertile soil look like to the church?

Does it look like a bunch of rich folk that have the world by the tail? Does it look like a group of folk who go to the church down the road? Or, does it look like the folks that are struggling with life, struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, struggling with acceptance due to their gender identification or color or ethnicity? One can never truly tell what fertile soil looks like, as it could be any or all of the above.

When I cleaned up the bed under the kitchen windows last summer, I cleaned out the unwanted plants, mostly weeds, and having removed excess soil added back compost and manure to enrich the soil. It took a while to get the soil to the place I thought it needed to be to be fertile enough for plants to grow and thrive.

When preparing the soil of the church in the community, we must first stir in those things that help make the soil richer. Things such as knowing what is happening in all aspects of the community, help us to know the nutrients needed. A healthy dose of the Holy Spirit is a requirement, while taking Bible Study to local coffee shops and restaurants can be a way of introducing ourselves to the community while not being overwhelming as well as a way to prepare ourselves to be soil ready to support new life, new growth.

When we plant a garden, we hope, we hope the plants will thrive and bear much fruit. When we plant our garden, we look to the harvest, the fruits of our labor, and know what we want it to look like. When we work in the garden of the community around us, planting seeds and look to the harvest, what does that harvest look like?

God calls us to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Our mission statement: “To know Christ, to grow in Christ, to share Christ with others,” contains the beginning of the planting within it. “To show Christ to others,” means that we are planting the seeds that can help others to become disciples of Jesus Christ. What sort of soil is that seed landing in? We don’t know; but how are we going about preparing the soil; what is the expectation of how the seeds will grow? These are the questions we should ask ourselves as we share our stories.

Remember, God provides the seed to us, the experiences that have given us hope in the past that we can share with others. God provides the contacts that we might share those experiences in ways that offer hope to others. As we share our experiences, as we are reminded of the hope we have received from God in the past, we experience hope for ourselves once more.

As we look to the future, what seeds to we see that need to be planted? What is it that we see as a future of hope for this congregation?

God will provide the inspiration through the Holy Spirit if we take the time to listen. God will provide the seed that we need as well as the vision for which we should work, but we need to be open to what that is and how the soil must be prepared. If we look to Jesus Christ, we find ways of preparing the soil as well as planting the seed, for that is what he did during the time he was on earth. Let us learn from that and seek to plant the seeds as God directs. Amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
Concerns:
    Grateful for fun times with family & Baby K
    Prayers for Baby K's parents
    Bob B. - hip replacement 7/21
    Facebook memory (Shureen) - Grands at VBS at GUMC
    Phyllis - had run-in with ground wasps, otherwise doing well and enjoying Seattle
    Bob C.
    Flooding in Europe
CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
   Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!      Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer                                                (ARS)
Gracious and loving God, you created us to be in relationship with one another and with all of creation. We acknowledge that we do not always interact with one another or the world around us in ways that build-up, but sometimes by our words and actions we damage those you place in our path. Forgive us when we fail to love others as you have loved us, showing them the hope we have in you, rather than the despair the world has shown them. Touch us with your healing hand, creating a new heart within us that we may bring your hope to the world and all its people. Great Physician, to you we lift our prayers of praise and petition. Heal those who are sick or recovering from surgery. Bring peace to the hearts and minds of those struggling with mental illness and challenges. Heal the earth you created, taming wildfire and storm that the land can recover. Create peace in the many corners of the world where violence destroys life, home and hop and teach us to be bringers of hope to those who are most in need of it. In the name of your Son, Jesus, we pray, amen.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

*Doxology            ”Praise God, from Whom all Blessings Flow”           UMH 95

Offering Prayer
Gracious God, bringer of hope, we offer to you our gifts this day. Use them, use us, to show others the hope they may find in you, amen.

*Hymn:                “My Hope Is Built”                          UMH368
Words: Edward Mote, 1834
Music: William B. Bradbury, 1863
Tune: The Solid Rock
Public Domain
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Benediction
Go forth to love and serve our God of hope and life, in the name of the One who created you, who redeemed you and who guides you daily, amen.

Theme & Call to Worship for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Yes! We are beginning to do responsive readings, joys and concerns during worship and sing hymns. Per CDC guidance, we ask that if you are not immunized for COVID-19 you continue to wear a mask during worship. There will be a brief "Gathering Time" in the "Gathering Space" following worship with coffee and confections.

Bishop on the District August 7 and 8
Bishop Devadhar will be visiting in our district on the weekend of August 7 & 8. We plan to have a district-wide potluck with him on Saturday, August 7, at the Shelburne UMC. This will be a chance not only to have conversation with our bishop but also to see each other “face to face”! Plan to start arriving at 4:30 and we’ll eat around 5:00 p.m. Please register in advance and indicate the number of people who will come with you.

Green Mountain Earth Stewards present Virtual Vacation Bible School 2021
Join us virtually on August 20, 21, and 22 for Vacation Bible School. The focus will be on art, faith, and nature. There will be bible stories, songs, art projects, and nature activities. It will be geared toward ages 5-10. Registration information will be available by early August. Youth who would be interested in helping to lead activities, please contact Sheri Smith: sherismith27@gmail.com.

Faith after Doubt, Book Discussions with Brian McLaren
At the 2021 New England Annual Conference, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar recommended that we read Brian McLaren’s latest book, Faith after Doubt: Why Your Beliefs Stopped Working and What To Do About It. There will be 4 live book discussions with McLaren this fall on Mondays Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct 4 at 8:00 p.m. Reserve those dates, read the book, and plan to participate!

Open Spirit Task Force hosts online gatherings
The Open Spirit Task Force is continuing to examine who New England Methodists are and who we are called to be. This summer, they will host a weekly presentation about their work and open conversation about the future of our denomination and Conference. Please join a Conferencewide presentation via Zoom each Tuesday beginning at 6:30 pm now through Aug. 31, 2021. Click the link to register; plan to attend one session, choosing the time most convenient for you: Register for a Zoom OSTF gathering
Find more information on the Open Spirit Task Force
Find the event on the Conference calendar

2021 Mission u
Mission u 2021 will take place online via Zoom July 24 & 31 and Aug. 7 & 11. Mission u provides opportunities for persons to grow in understanding of the mission of the church in the current world context as well as initiate opportunities for spiritual and educational experiences. Mission u is for women, men, youth, children. Learn about the 2021 studies and register at www.neumc.org/missionu

United Methodist Anti-Racism Resources
Reparations: “Reparations: Remembering, Repairing, and Re-imagining, Church & Society webinar series - 1 more session (July 19)
Now, Christians, let’s have a real conversation
The Upper Room Spiritual Resources for Overcoming Racism
New England Conference Commission on Religion & Race resources
Anti-Racism 101: Required Skills for White People Who Want to Be Allies
Resources for responding to systemic racism
A reading list from the NE Conference Commission on Religion and Race
Visit the UMC End Racism website for ideas.
Vital Conversations on the Realities of Race and Racism
Daily Prayers for Anti-Racism

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
July’s Collection to Date: $2,108.02

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People



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GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
7TH Sunday after Pentecost
July 11, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and Lighting Our Candle for Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Opening Hymn:            “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name”               UMH 154
Words: Edward Perronet, 1779, alt. by John Rippon, 1787
Music: Oliver Holden, 1792, Public Domain
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org, Used by permission

Call to Worship    (Psalm 52:8-9, alt)
L: We are like a green olive tree in the house of God.
P: We trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever.
L: We will thank you forever,
P: Because of what you have done.
L: In the presence of the faithful we will proclaim your name, for it is good.”

Prayer of the Day                                                (ARS)
Most holy and loving God, we come before you this day looking to the future with the desires of our hearts open to you. We want to serve you and glorify you and lift our voices in praise and thanksgiving. Let our thoughts this day be ever on you. Let our understanding grow that we may better serve you. Let our hearts be healed that our love may be perfected through you. Amen.

Scripture Reading:
   Jeremiah 29:10-14
   Romans 8:18-28

Message
Hope is something that can be very hard to come by sometimes: in the face of a difficult diagnosis; when looking at a pile of rubble under which lie people buried when the building collapsed; when a friend, a neighbor, a loved one is killed due to gang violence; ethnic cleansing by governments; or, as in the case of the people of Jeremiah’s time, when one has been driven not only into exile, but into exile where one must live under the control of the conquerors, hope can be hard to come by.

Hope in churches can also be hard to come by as congregations age and numbers shrink. Hope can look like a hard, dry seed that shows no evidence of life. We know deep down that there is a promise of life, but when we look, it can be hard to believe it is there.

Sometimes hope is little more than a dream, a vision of what we want to have happen of what we want the future to look like. It is something that, though we want it right now, is just out of reach, a flicker at the end of a long, often dark, tunnel. This is the situation in which the Israelites find themselves as they are listening to Jeremiah. They ignored the many warnings carried by God’s prophet, listening to false prophets and continuing to worship gods other than the one true God who created heaven and earth. God finally chose to punish them and they were conquered and most of the people, carried away into exile in Babylon.

Jeremiah is bringing them a new message, a message with hope, but also a message requiring patience. God first denounces many of the false prophets that have arisen, that have fed them stories of false hope and have played a part in leading them into this time of separation from God. Having denounced them, God then says, “Only when Babylon’s seventy years are completed will I visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place.”

There is hope here, but it will be long time in being fulfilled. Seventy years of waiting will require patience, but there is a light though it seems far away.

We look for hope, but the hope we want is hope that will appear and come to fruition in the short-term, much like the hope that Hananiah, who told the people that the Babylonians would be overthrown in two years, brought. Such hope, as the Israelites discovered, can be false hope. Hope that comes from God can happen in the short-term, but it is often a long-term hope that requires patience before the results are truly experienced. God knows us, loves us and wants what is good for us. “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) But God’s plans are long-term plans, not just plans for the instant.

Churches must look to the long-term for true hope. There are numerous “fix your church” books and ideas, but the reality for most is that to bring true hope for a future for many congregations requires patience and change.

Remember the seed we spoke of earlier, something that looks dead and nothing like the tree or other plant into which it will grow, that seed, when buried in the dirt will become changed and eventually bear fruit.

For us to grow in hope, we too must be changed. We must allow the Holy Spirit to infuse us, to help us to understand where we have been, where we are and where God wants us to go. When we get too locked into looking at the past, when we yearn for “the way things used to be,” we are more like the Hebrews as they journeyed from slavery in Egypt, but met with challenges along the way. Rather than trying to come up with ways to meet the challenges, they would approach Moses, complaining and thinking how things were “better” when they were slaves.

Hope requires us to be open to God. It requires patience. It requires a willingness to allow the Holy Spirit to change our way of looking at things, to change our way of seeing ourselves and the world around us. For hope to grow, we must open ourselves to be able to see and recognize hope for it may not look like what we want it to look like.

For the last almost 18 months we have been dealing with a pandemic. It has forced us to close our doors, though we found other ways of worshiping, and has created economic hardship for many. Most of us would like it to “just go away,” but that is not how it will work. Vaccines have been developed and we are blessed to live in a nation where they are readily available. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter for us, but there are many in our country refusing the vaccine for many reasons and there are many countries throughout the world where the vaccine is either not available or available only in limited supplies. The light is there, but it is not as bright as we would like to see it as people continue to get sick and many more will die until enough people are vaccinated to protect those who are unable to receive the vaccine.

As you can see, there are many still not ready to come back to in-person worship, who prefer to remain at home and worship in the comfort of their own living space. The light at the end of the tunnel is brighter and as the virus is slowly but surely put to rest, more will hopefully return to in-person worship swelling our ranks and helping us to declare to the world that God has been with us through it all, just like God heard the cries of the Israelites and set a time frame that though long was one that spoke a word of hope in a seemingly hopeless time.

“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

God wants us to have hope. Let us open ourselves to what that hope looks like and have patience as God works among us. Amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns

Joys:
    Connie - Andy home from Hawaii
    Barry Weigel - hernia operation
    Baby K a year old Tuesday
Concerns:
    Those in path of Elsa
    Remains of condo collapse
    NW & West - heat, drought, fire
    Travelers
    Delta COVID variants & spread by unvaccinated people
    Mudslide in Japan
    Ami
    Afghanistan & those left behind
    Keith Michaelson
    People depressed and need lifting up
    Bob Clark
    Bob Benjamin
    Dottie Cheever - hip complications
    Lillian and Richard (health)
    Ted (Gayle Balcom) in hospital with COVID-19 & double pneumonia
    4 year-old boy who fell in fire pit
    Jim and Vida Perry

CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:
   Leader: Alleluia?              Leader: Lord in your mercy,
   Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer                                                (ARS)
Loving God, you have heard the prayers we have lifted to you, prayers of joy and prayers of hope, seeking your touch to heal our friends, family and loved ones. We know you are the Great Physician, and nothing is beyond your ability. We know you want good for us and yet we struggle to make apparent the good in situations such as the collapse of the tower in Florida and the subsequent loss of life, the massive heatwave that has devastated the Northwestern portions of our country and again threaten them with heat that causes sickness and death, and the devastation brought on by hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfire. Holy One, heal us; heal our country; help us to hear the cries of those who feel disenfranchised and to seek the good for all rather than what is good only for ourselves at the expense of others for you are a loving and forgiving God and in you alone does our hope lie. Amen.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

*Hymn:                “The Trees of the Field”                      TFWS 2279
Words: Steffi Geiser Ruben (Isa. 55:12)
Music Stuart Dauermann
Tune: The Trees of the Field
© 1975 Lillenas Publishing Co., admin by The Copyright Co.
Music: Don Marsh - “Vol 3. America’s 25 Favorite Praise and Worship Choruses”
CCLI #20546, CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329, Used by permission

Benediction                                                   (ARS)
Go forth knowing that God walks with us even when hope seems far away. Go forth knowing that Christ brought new hope to a world lost in sin and death. Go forth allowing the Holy Spirit to work with and through you that others may know that hope is available to all. Amen.

Theme for the day from “A Future with Hope” series by Marcia McFee, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co/,

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
July’s Collection to Date:

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar will be visiting in the Green Mountain District on Saturday, August 7 and Sunday, August 8, and hopes to see and re-connect with many Green Mountain people!

There will be a district-wide potluck in the late afternoon on Saturday, August 7 for conversation with Bishop Devadhar as well as fellowship with folks around the district. Details are being worked out and will be posted soon. To assist with preparation for the potluck, registration/RSVP will be requested, GMDS@neumc.org. Check out the next newsletter for more details and registration info.

On Sunday, August 8, Bishop Devadhar will preach at the 10:00 a.m. worship service of the United Church of Underhill.

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GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
6TH Sunday after Pentecost
July 4, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and Lighting Our Candle for Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Opening Hymn:            “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”               UMH 127
Words: William Williams, 1745; Trans. From the Welsh by Peter Williams and the author, 1771
Music: John Hughes 1907, Tune: CWM RHONDA
Public Domain, Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission

Call to Worship                                           Nancy C. Townley
L: God’s greatness is wondrous to behold.
P: Everywhere we look, we can see the imprint of God.
L: From the loftiest mountains to the crashing waters of the sea,
P: There God’s greatness stands majestically.
L: God’s greatness can be within the human heart.
P: Let us honor and praise God with acts of loving kindness and compassion. AMEN.

Prayer of the Day                                           Nancy C. Townley
Lord of mystery and community, you have called us here this day to remind us of the mission journey you set before us. Help us to pay attention to the words of Jesus as he sent out his disciples on a mission of healing and compassion. Remind us that success is not measured in the cures, but in the striving. Enable us to truly be your disciples in this world. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. AMEN.

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 48
2 Corinthians 12:2-10
Mark 6:1-13

Message                                           by Dr. Marcia McFee
On the weekend of July 4, people across this country and from different backgrounds have traditionally come together around tables: picnic tables, kitchen tables, dining tables… and whether it was BBQ, fried chicken, Mom’s favorite homemade dish, hot dog stand, potluck, whatever was in the pantry or whatever they could afford, many pause to remember the founding value of independence and hopefully enjoy the company of friends and loved ones.

It is a different year. Substantially different.
And rightly so.
For this year we pause to ask ourselves…

What is life-giving? To gather or to safely distance? Will we think only of our own assumptions of safety, or will we understand the ramifications of our actions on the most vulnerable populations–those who don’t have a choice about going to work, those with compromising health conditions, those without healthcare, those black and brown people who are dying at higher rates?

And more questions…

What is freedom? An ideal to which we give lip-service while ignoring the work we must do to truly enact the change that freedom requires? Or listening to the clarion call of the streets and the voice of the Liberator Jesus who bids us pray and work for the “Kin-dom come, here on earth as it is in heaven”–a place where there is a seat for ALL at the table?

Today we gather around this Liberator’s table to remember what true freedom really means. It is a table where outsiders and the “least of these” were invited. It is a table where the privileged also had a place, but were invited to let the “seats of honor” be given to those who had not previously been afforded access to them.

All are invited to this Table of Freedom–the table of Jesus. You don’t have to earn a seat and you certainly don’t have to fight for a seat. You simply have to accept the chair pulled up already for you. Yet, as we prepare ourselves for this feast, we are called to admit the complexity that lies at the edges of our celebrations.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
Joys:
    Bob B. has 1 more treatment
Concerns:
    Ami
    Pacific Northwest heatwave
    Bob & Chris Clark
    Jim & Vida Perry
    Florida Condo Collapse
    Phyllis in Seattle/ Stephanie & Debbie
    Good Health
    Pat
    Keith M.
    Shureen Metcalf - foot problems
Prayers for the Shover/Croteau family on the death of their brother, Dennis

CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?       Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

Prayer of Confession                                   Dr. Marcia McFee
For all the ways we colonize each other–
with expectations, beliefs, judgments, and our own fear…
God, in your mercy, forgive and transform.

For all the ways we squander right relationship–
grabbing to “have” more while some go without…
God, in your mercy, forgive and transform.

For all the ways we abuse our freedom–
engaging hateful speech that injures and demeans…
God, in your mercy, forgive and transform.

For all the ways we deny equality–
deeming some “in” and others “out…”
God, in your mercy, forgive and transform.

For all the ways we have refused to let go of privilege–
whining about how hard it is to “change” our ways, our systems, our lifestyles.
God, in your mercy, forgive and transform.

Silence

Words of Assurance
Jesus said, “I have come to set the prisoner free.”
No matter what binds you this day, freedom is yours through new life in Christ.

If it is your blinders that imprison you,
be free in Christ, of this ignorance.

If it is your entitlement and excuses that tell you that letting go will be a “prison” for you,
be free in Christ, of this self-serving lie.

If it is your fear of losing your “self” that immobilizes you,
be free in Christ, of this false ego.

We will continue to make mistakes, but the biggest one
would be not to heed the call to try and try again.
And so, in the name of him who came to loose the chains, you are forgiven.
In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven, set free to try again. Glory to God! Amen!

The Peace
When our lives are set free, we are able to reach out to stranger and friend.
I invite you to remain in your places, lifting a hand as you pass the peace of Christ among you, saying, “Freedom is coming, yes I know!”

Love Feast
“Comfort Food: A Feast of Love”

Take a moment to get something to eat, pour a fresh cup of coffee, gather at a table, etc.

When we “break bread” together as a church in our worship, we remember that Jesus invited folks to his table as part of his ministry, not just at the Last Supper. So we wanted to create a way for all of us to break bread together with whatever we have at our homes. Indeed, what we’ve asked you to do is to prepare your favorite “comfort food!”

I invite you to share with the group gathered online what food you are bringing to the table for our virtual feast.

Jesus used the parable of a great banquet to which all people are invited in order to talk about what the “kin-dom” of God, the family of God, looks like. He said, “Go to the highways and back alleys and urge people to come in so that my house will be filled.” He often invited the most unlikely guests to his meal-times, confounding the disciples. In this way, he was encouraging a deep love and connection beyond social norms. He knew that we humans need connection and inclusion. Jesus comforts us, saying “you have a place at the table” and Jesus challenges us to make sure we are doing the same–that all people know they are welcome in our hearts, in our homes, in our churches–even if we can’t physically be with each other right now.

It is difficult in this moment not to be near some of the people we love and might be worried about. Take a moment and say out loud the names of people you wish were right there next to you at your table today.

Jesus is no longer physically on earth, yet every time we gather around a table and we call him to mind, he is present with us in Spirit. And so too, our loved ones are with us. Let this be a comfort to us.

We also want to call to mind, the people we cannot name, whose names we do not know. But we know they need our prayers and God’s comfort.

For those who have lost loved ones
For those who are sick and recovering
For those who are caring for loved ones who are sick at home
For those who are caring for persons in medical care
For those who are separated from loved ones
For those who are feeling alone and isolated
For those who are helping and are so very tired
For those who are struggling to find friends, food, and comfort
For those who are afraid

I invite you to take a deep breath on behalf of all those we do not know and cannot call by name. As we do so, we know that God knows who needs our prayers and the Spirit, Breath of God, is blowing from within us outward as a Spirit of Compassion and Presence.

Blessings at the table are part of our Judeo-Christian heritage. Indeed, Jesus adapted his Jewish ritual blessing spoken before and after meals. He asked us to remember him whenever we break bread and raise a cup in thanksgiving. This is why we call our communion prayers the “Great Thanksgiving.” In this feast of love and comfort, we can call to mind things for which we are deeply grateful. I invite you to speak aloud a couple of things that you are grateful for in this moment.

And so I invite you to raise a plate of “something” on your table, or a glass of whatever you are drinking,
and let us bless it in this way, repeating after me there at home:

Holy Comforter
   Holy Comforter [continue to repeat the next lines in this way]
We gather in your name…
invited by Jesus…
bound together with your Spirit…
in union with each other…

Feed our bodies and our spirits…
with your comforting presence…
so that we might be your comfort to others…

Bless this food…
and break open our hearts…
Bless this drink…
and pour out your love…
Amen…

As you pass and fill your plates, getting ready to continue to eat your comfort food once we have signed off, I invite you to imagine what extravagant love looks like as you reach across the social distance to loved ones, to friends, and even acquaintances or strangers.

And now may you shelter not only in place, but in peace. May the peace and comfort of Christ be present with you now and forevermore. Amen.

*Hymn:                “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”           #717 UMH, v. 1, 4, 5
Words: sts. 1-4, Julia Ward Howe, 1861; st 5 ann.
Music: USA Campmeeting tune, 19th cent.
Tune: Battle Hymn of the Republic, Public Domain
Music: UMCDiscipleship.org., CCLI License # 11554317, Streaming License: 20810329

Benediction
Go in confidence. Know that God goes with you to give you words of hope, comfort and peace. May God’s love flow through you to all those whom you meet. AMEN.

Call to Worship, Opening Prayer and Benediction by Nancy C. Townley, from Worship Connection: July 4, 2021, Ministry Matters, Used by permission.

Reflection, Prayer of Confession/Words of Assurance, Love Feast - by Dr. Marcia McFee, Worship Design Studio, used by permission/

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

And speaking of the prayer garden . . .
If anyone has extra perennials, please consider donating them to the church. They can be dropped off and we will plant. Does anyone have any extra tiger lilies?

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
June’s Collection to Date: $2,454.10

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
5TH Sunday after Pentecost
June 27, 2021                                              Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and Lighting Our Candle for Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Opening Hymn:                “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”                UMH 117
Words: Isaac Watts, 1719 (Ps 90)
Music: Attr. to William Croft, 1708; Harm. By W. H. Monk, 1861
Public Domain
Musician: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org

Call to Worship    (Psalm 130)
L: Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice.
P: Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications!
L: If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand?
P: But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
L: I wait for the Lord, and in your word, I put my hope.
P: My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning.
L: Let us worship God!

Prayer of the Day
O God of all creation, the earth is yours and the fullness thereof. You touch the leaves with the dew of the morning; you send the breezes to cool the night. The trees are laden with fruit because of your blessing; fields produce crops because of your care. As you watch over your people and fill all their needs, now send forth your Spirit and be present among us. We lift up our heads and give you praise in Christ’s name.

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 130
2 Corinthians 8:7-15

Message
The psalmist reminds us that God is the only one who can truly and fully forgive us. Paul reminds us of how much we are loved by God. He reminds us that Jesus gave up the wealth and prestige of heaven to come to earth for our sakes. What is our response?

How do our daily lives reflect our understanding of God’s great love for us? How do we demonstrate our appreciation for the sacrifice Jesus made for our sakes? Do our lives look like the lives of the general population in which we live or do we live differently, demonstrating our appreciation for what has been given to us?

Life is difficult. The economy has been struggling and even though there is hope for improvement, prices are rising faster than paychecks and increases in social security. Some in our congregation and in our community find themselves struggling to make ends meet. Paul encourages us to be a part of the solution, not giving so much that we ourselves become impoverished, but giving as we can to make things better for those who have less.

Sometimes giving looks like dollars coming out of our pockets, but that is not the only kind of giving that can help others. Sometimes giving looks like taking time out of our lives to volunteer at the Food Shelf. We may not have a lot of dollars to donate, but we can take time out of our very busy lives to help with the logistics of stocking shelves or distributing food to those who are in need of help.

Sometimes giving looks like taking time out of our busy lives to volunteer to read to someone whose vision is failing but their brains are still active and in need of stimulation. Sometimes giving looks like using other gifts that God has given us, whether gifts of carpentry or strength or the ability to push a lawnmower to reach out to neighbors no longer able to do things for themselves, helping out in tangible ways to make their lives more comfortable, their homes more appealing.

When we join the local congregation of a United Methodist Church, we make a vow to “faithfully participate in its ministries by (y)our prayers, (y)our presence, (y)our gifts, and (y)our service” and a few years ago was added, “and by (y)our witness.”

I know physical presence has not been possible for a long time and many are still uncomfortable with gathering where there are a number of people, but as things begin to open up and the world around us begins to get safer, I encourage you to join us in worship or perhaps help out with Sizzlin’ Chicken or even come up with a mission project that could become a part of our ministry to this community or the world. What might it look like if we put a physical presence to our ministries in the community? How would we identify ourselves as “those folks from the Methodist church”?

What about your prayer life, do you remember to raise the ministries of our congregation to God in your prayers? Do you ask God what new thing we need to do and how to go about doing it?

We pledge our “gifts,” these are what keeps the light and heat on and gives us a base out of which we can do ministry. I know the pandemic has played havoc with people’s ability to live up to pledges. I know finances have become a struggle for many. Paul reminds us it is as much about our enthusiasm in giving as it is the dollar amount we give. The woman who gave two small copper coins from her poverty was celebrated, we may not know her name, but we do her story. It is about our joy in giving to God and to the things of God as we seek to help others. Paul says, “For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has—not according to what one does not have. I do not mean that there should be relief for others and pressure on you, but it is a question of a fair balance…” We are encouraged to give, but not to give so much that we impoverish ourselves.

We pledge our “service.” Service in this sense is about physically doing what we are able to help others. Remember when I said giving might look like reading to someone, etc.?

And then, there is our “witness.” How do we share the love God has for us with others in ways that also shares the presence of God in our lives? I remember a time when I was younger that sharing my faith was not the easiest thing to do. In fact, I grew up in the Bible Belt and those that seemed the most eager to share their faith were ones who would not even imagine a woman being in the pulpit or pastoring a congregation. They felt women should be submissive to their husband in all things. Perhaps that was part of my problem in witnessing to my faith, I didn’t believe that. I believed that God loved all people because God had created them and that women and men should be equal partners as they journeyed.

Witnessing is not about standing on a corner proclaiming “repent, the end of the world is drawing near.” Witnessing is about being present to another and, when it is appropriate, sharing one’s own story of strength, forgiveness, hope and love that one has received from God through God’s Son, Jesus, the Christ.

These things we vow or pledge in our membership vows are ways we give thanks to God for being there for us when we need it; ways we give thanks to Jesus for giving up everything, even sacrificing his life for us. Sometimes it seems like a lot to ask, but when we think about it, is it really; give thanks to God for all that God has done for us by how we live our lives and how we share God’s love with others?

Give what you can, but do so with joy and eagerness, it will be acceptable. Amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns

Joys
    Jackson home for Father's Day
    Happy to be in worship
    Jeremy and Danica getting married on June 27th
Concerns
    Bill (Lillian's Brother-in-law) moving in July
    Richard - health issues
    John's dad - having chemo, but is doing well so far
    Strength for Skylar
    Gabe and Betsy in Houston
    Bob Benjamin
    Bob Clark

CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?           Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer
Loving and compassionate God, we wait for you in the dark hours of our lives, longing to feel your presence knowing your promise to be present but needing assurance that you are there. You hear our prayers, even the ones we fear to speak aloud and hold closely in our hearts. Heal our brokenness. Strengthen our resolve. Help us to open the darkest parts of ourselves to your light of love and of grace, then guide into new life, lives of hope and of promise that shine your love out into a world of fear and violence. We know you are with us in days of joy and days of sorrow, and we celebrate that presence. Help us to be the people you created us to be, people of love, people who seek your face before all others and then guide others to seek you also, for you are a god of love, of compassion and of forgiveness. We pray this in the name of your son, who gave up everything to come to earth and teach us how to live lives of compassion and hope, then died that we might be forgiven when we fall short of your glory, Jesus the Christ, amen.                   (ARS)

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

*Hymn:            “He Who Began a Good Work in You”                              TFWS 2163
Words: Jon Mohr,Music: Joh Mohr
Copyrights: 1987 Birdwing Music, Jonathan Mark Music
CCLI Song # 15238, Used by permission
Music from America’s 25 Favorite Praise and Worship Choruses, Vol. 4
CCLI License # 11554317, Streaming License: 20810329

Benediction
God has blessed us with life, Christ has brought us salvation, The Holy Spirit walks with us daily; go forth in the strength of this knowledge to share the wealth you have received through God’s love and grace.
                   (ARS)

Unless otherwise noted, prayers and liturgy by James G. Kirk, used by permission, from “When We Gather: A Book of Prayers for Worship”, © 2001 James G. Kirk, Published by Geneva Press.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Thank you!
For all those who helped with Sizzlin’ Chicken.

And speaking of the prayer garden . . .
If anyone has extra perennials, please consider donating them to the church. They can be dropped off and we will plant. Does anyone have any extra tiger lilies?

Food Shelf Items Needed
Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
June’s Collection to Date: $2,454.10

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
4TH Sunday after Pentecost, Father’s Day, and 1st Day of Summer
June 20, 2021                                              Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Greeting and Announcements

Prayer for Peace and Lighting Our Candle for Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Opening Hymn:            “Give to the Winds Thy Fears”                  UMH129
Words: Paul Gerhardt, 1653; trans. By John Wesley, 1839 (Ps. 37.5)
Music: William H. Walter, 1894, Tune: Festal Song, Music: Dean McIntyre, UMCDiscipleship.org, Used by permission,
Public Domain

Call to Worship
L: In the midst of life’s storms, God is there.
   P: What have we to fear?
L: In the darkness and terror, God is with us.
   P: Of whom shall we be afraid?
L: Rise up, people of God, for you are loved and saved.
   P: Thanks be to God who cares deeply for us. AMEN.

Prayer of the Day
Lord, we have come this day, seeking your presence and healing love. Be with us as we hear the words of hope and compassion. Give us courage to learn and grow that we might serve you faithfully all of our days.

God of love and power, we listen to the stories of miracles and doubt that these things can happen today. We look at the waves of misfortune, distress, misery, distrust, and anger and wonder how we can still those waves. We feel the pressures of power and fear flooding into our lives, threatening to drown us and wonder where you are. Forgive us for the littleness of our faith. Forgive us for our doubts. Help us to place out trust in you, Lord Jesus. Help us to fix our eyes on you and on the ministries to which you have called us. For we ask these things in Jesus’ Name. AMEN.

Words of Assurance
Fear not! God is with us, stilling the storms and raging fears in our lives. Place your trust in God always. AMEN.

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32
Mark 4:35-41

Message

Why are you afraid?

As I am writing this, a thunderstorm rages outside the windows. Lightning is flashing, thunder rumbling, rain is pouring from the sky and trees are being whipped around by the wind.

I don’t know how many of you have ever sailed, but it is an awesome experience when the winds are just right and they carry you at breathtaking speeds across the water. I did some sailing in my younger days. There were a few things we learned, keep a weather eye, if there looked to be a storm brewing don’t go out or get back into shelter immediately; if the winds begin to increase and you are having trouble with maneuvering, reduce the sails, less sail means less for the winds to pull you along and more control. There were other things, but these are the two important ones for today.

At least four (4) of the disciples were fishermen. They plied the waters of Galilee on a regular basis as they followed their trade. They knew to keep a weather eye. They knew the unpredictability of the Galilean sea. They knew how to reduce sail and many other maneuvers to maintain control in stormy weather, but they became afraid. This must have been some, humdinger of a storm.

In the Bible, stormy seas are often a metaphor for chaos and a reference back to the primordial chaos out of which God created. They can remind us also of the chaos in which we live our day to day lives: the chaos of a pandemic that has turned our economy and lives upside down, the chaos of a family where jobs have been lost and worrying of how to feed and house the family fill lives with fear, the chaos of gun violence sweeping our country, where there is a new mass shooting almost every day, the chaos of hatred in our country whether due to skin tone, gender identity, religious beliefs or ethnicity, and the list could go on.

We live in times of chaos that impact the everyday ordinary way we go about our lives and Jesus asks, “Why are you afraid?” Don’t we have reason to be afraid? We are losing control. We are facing overwhelming issues and we can’t seem to find a way to change things. Of course we are afraid, just as the disciples were that day.

But, Jesus question went further than, “Why are you afraid?” He also asked, “Have you still no faith?”

The disciples have been traveling for some time with Jesus. They have seen him perform miracles and heard him teach about the kingdom of God and yet, they still don’t get who Jesus is, what Jesus is. In Psalm 107, we hear the power of God who, when seamen cried out in anguish due to the angry seas, hushed the waves and stilled the storm. This Jesus, Son of God, God incarnate, has the power of God at his command. While the disciples accuse him of not caring, he calmly quiets the storm and calms the waves.

Jesus has control over nature, over the wind and waves, ready to calm them when needed, but does not promise that we won’t encounter these storms of life. Jesus promises to be with us, to help us get through the challenges of the chaos by giving us strength and courage to meet each day. He just asks that we have faith, that we trust his presence, his strength.

It is so easy to get caught up in our own fear and lack of control over situations. Jesus doesn’t tell us not to fear, he asks us why, “why are you afraid?” For in understanding why we fear, we can begin to let Jesus lift that fear from our hearts and our lives. When we continue to live life to its fullest as we trust Jesus to carry some of the load, we can once more find joy and peace and hope.

As we watch the chaos of today’s world, we need to admit to Jesus our fears and ask his presence, his strength to overcome the forces of chaos bent on fueling fear and distrust. We need to look to Jesus to show us how, together, we can conquer the forces of chaos and bring hope to all people, for people often need hope that change is possible, that something better is coming before they are willing to step out in trust.

We are in the boat with the disciples, have we learned faith or “Have we still no faith?” Amen.

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns
Joys:
        Dottie home and doing well
        Jeremy marrying Danica on June 27
        Patrick has a new job at "Hungry Bear"
        Baby from last week doing well, mom out of bed and able to visit
        Graduates - Pam has 3 grands graduating - Bright future
    Concerns:
        Nicole (Dottie met in hospital) broken back when thrown from horse, great deal of pain
        Graduates - safety
        Baby Connor - week old, will need PT and surgery
        Bob B.
        Bob C.

CELEBRATIONS:           PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?           Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer
Lord of wind and water, of calmness and peace, be with us this day. Calm our fears as we face uncertain futures. Help us to relinquish control and to place our trust totally in you. Remind us to continue to faithfully work for good, with gratitude for the many blessings you have poured upon us. When the waves and torrents threaten us, let us again to turn to you, remembering your saving mercies and love. Give us courage to become disciples who can calm the seas of doubt and anger, bringing hope and peace. As we have brought before your situations that require help and healing mercies, remind us again that you are with each person and situation, offering your love and mercy. We thank you for the many ways in which you have healed us. For all the goodness you have poured on us, we offer prayers of gratitude and love, as we ask these things in Jesus’ Name. AMEN.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

*Hymn:                    “Stand By Me”                       UMH 512
Words: Charles Albert Tindley, ca 1906 (Public Domain)
Music: Charles Albert Tindley, ca 1906, arr. By William Farley Smith, 1989 © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House
Tune: Stand By Me, CCLI Song # 1208398, Music Source: UMCDiscipleship.org, Used by permission, CCLI License # 11554317, Streaming License: 20810329

Benediction
As the Lord has given to you such peace and healing, now go into the world offering God’s love and hope to others. Go in peace and remember that God goes with you. AMEN

Liturgy from ministrymatters.com, used by permission.

June 20, 2021

To my Grace UMC Family,

       THANK YOU!!

Thank you for your faithfulness throughout the long months of separation due to the
pandemic, but also a personal “THANK YOU!” for your loving support, the food, the cards,
the offers of assistance, and your prayers during these last 2 1/2 months as I have struggled
with health issues. I also appreciate all of the messages of condolence since Tiger’s death.
He will be sorely missed by me and some of you.

You are truly a family that lives out the Gospel message of loving and caring for one
another. I have seen it as you have reached out to others in our community during difficult
times, despite the pandemic restrictions and I have experienced it many times
over the last few months.

I still have a ways to go before I am fully recovered, but your support and flexibility
have helped me to heal in so many ways. Again, I say, THANK-YOU!

God’s richest blessings are for those who serve him daily,

Pastor Ami

   Volunteer Moment . . .

June 16, 2021

Hello again!

This week, we are installing an insulated roof on a mobile home in Braintree, VT and we
could use a few more volunteers on Friday or Saturday, weather permitting... Next week,
we are installing another roof on a mobile home in Bradford and we need more volunteers
for that Thursday, June 24th.

July 8, 9, and 10, we are installing insulated skirting on Thelma's mobile home in Perkinsville,
VT. Mobile homes tend to lose a lot of winter heat or summer cooling through the underbelly.
Insulated skirting can help lower heating bills significantly. Thelma is a gracious woman and
will be providing lunch for all volunteers that week.

HR Team will be taking care of misc. July 1 & 2 and 20-24, but volunteers are welcome to
give a hand preparing materials, here at COVER. The store could always use Saturday
volunteers. Feel free to email me if you might like to help! Thank you!
Stay Safe, Be Well
Lisa Ricci
Cover Volunteer Coordinator
Office: (802) 296-7241 ext. 3

"Repairing Homes & Building Community"
www.coverhomerepair.org
Check out our Facebook for updates and community stories!
COVER Home Repair, Inc.   158 South Main Street White River Junction, VT 05001

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sizzlin’ Chicken

The 1st Sizzlin’ Chicken will be held Saturday, July 10th from 11:30 until 2 p.m. Offering 1/2 grilled chicken, BBQ sauce and 2 cookies. Price will be $9--no advanced orders.

Still needed for upcoming Sizzlin’ Chicken events:

We need some workers on that day to arrive at 11 a.m. to set up and to stay until sold out:

1 cashier; 1 server of the chicken; 1 bagger; 1 person to write down names and phone number of the buyers

1 man to help take in tables and chairs at the end
Also, people to make cookies--2 dozen each--putting 2 into a small Ziplock bag
If you can volunteer for any of these positions, please contact Rebecca Schramm--

603-369-9598, rebecca@merrymeadowfarm.com

Thank you so much!!!

Thank you!

Don for cleaning the bathrooms and sweeping and mopping the kitchen floor.
For all those who helped with Sizzlin’ Chicken.
For Lillian and Pat weeding the prayer garden and planting more plants.

And speaking of the prayer garden . . .

If anyone has extra perennials, please consider donating them to the church. They can be dropped off and we will plant. Does anyone have any extra tiger lilies? Also, with this little rain, the weeds have popped up. Could use a couple of weeders!

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, cat & dog food, and Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Church is open for worship service.
Beauty of Spring.
Swimming in Caspian Lake—clear, warm water.
Saw Sarah & family yesterday.

Concerns:

Friend’s niece has newborn—baby doing well—mom not.
Dottie, hip surgery Wednesday.
Vera—granddaughter, high fever with a cold.
Brian, Gorham, NH, son of Pat’s friend had a stroke.
Bob—second treatment
Dick—anemic, unknown cause
Brother in law, Bill selling house, moving in with daughter.
Tina Benzie, health issues, home now from nursing home
Chris needs help and rides with Bob’s treatment
Chris—stress
Those having difficult time moving forward

CELEBRATIONS:       PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?           Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!       Response: Hear our prayer!

Pastoral Prayer

Lord, in this season of growth, open our hearts to grow in your love. Help us to truly trust in your creative process in our lives. We look around and we see the beauty of your world, the blossoming flowers and plants, the growth of children, the joy of celebrations of graduation and marriage, of receiving new life. And we also see the sadness and sorrow that has invaded the world when systems of injustice and hatred lay claim to people’s lives. Prepare us, O Lord, to become ambassadors of peace and hope. Help us to place our trust in you, so that when we are serving others, they may come to know your abiding love and power. Give us courage and great joy as we serve you. AMEN.

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Offering Our Gifts to God

*Hymn:                “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come”                       UMH 694
               Words: Henry Alford, 1844, alt. (Mk. 4:26-29; Mt. 13:36-43)
               Music: George J. Elvey, 1858
               Tune: St. George’s Windsor
               Public Domain

Benediction

Feel the love of God growing within your heart. Go into God’s world, planting seeds of love, mercy, joy, and peace in all that you say and do. Be at peace and serve God. AMEN.

Liturgy from ministrymatters.com, used by permission.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sizzlin’ Chicken

The 1st Sizzlin’ Chicken will be held Saturday, June 12th from 11:30 until 2 p.m. Offering 1/2 grilled chicken, BBQ sauce and 2 cookies. Price will be $9--no advanced orders.

Still needed for upcoming Sizzlin’ Chicken events:

We need some workers on that day to arrive at 11 a.m. to set up and to stay until sold out:

1 cashier; 1 server of the chicken; 1 bagger; 1 person to write down names and phone number of the buyers

1 man to help take in tables and chairs at the end
Also, people to make cookies--2 dozen each--putting 2 into a small Ziplock bag
If you can volunteer for any of these positions, please contact Rebecca Schramm--

603-369-9598, rebecca@merrymeadowfarm.com

Thank you so much!!!

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

The 1st Sizzlin’ Chicken will be held on June 12th, the 2nd Saturday. Offering 1/2 grilled chicken, BBQ sauce and 2 cookies. Price will be $9--no advanced orders
We need some workers on that day to arrive at 11a.m. to set up and to stay until sold out:

1 cashier; 1 server of the chicken; 1 bagger; 1 person to write down names and phone number of the buyers

1 man to help take in tables and chairs at the end
Also, people to make cookies--2 dozen each--putting 2 into a small Ziplock bag
If you can volunteer for any of these positions, please contact Rebecca Schramm--

603-369-9598, rebecca@merrymeadowfarm.com

Thank you so much!!!

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

The 1st Sizzlin’ Chicken will be held on June 12th, the 2nd Saturday. Offering 1/2 grilled chicken, BBQ sauce and 2 cookies. Price will be $9--no advanced orders
We need some workers on that day to arrive at 11a.m. to set up and to stay until sold out:

1 cashier; 1 server of the chicken; 1 bagger; 1 person to write down names and phone number of the buyers

1 man to help take in tables and chairs at the end
Also, people to make cookies--2 dozen each--putting 2 into a small Ziplock bag
If you can volunteer for any of these positions, please contact Rebecca Schramm--

603-369-9598, rebecca@merrymeadowfarm.com

Thank you so much!!!

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Making progress against COVID
Phoebe nest above backdoor
Ami Back
Family
Trip to Bangor like a mini vacation, drive was beautiful

Our Concerns:

Family of Chris Shettles (Ami's sister's best friend's husband)
Those depressed
Countries not seeing decreases in COVID activity (India, etc.)
Hospital Roommate
Those awaiting test results
Those with family members actively dying
Those hardworking
Israel/Palestine
Robert Simmons

Our God Sightings

Leader: For the beauty of the world in all its diversity, we give you thanks, O God. . .
We need your healing, O Holy One, for our troubled planet, for our nation,
for all who are struggling in body, mind, relationships, and spirit. . .
Be with each of us now.
May the dance of your Spirit ever call us
to engage with you and with the needs around us.
Lead us; guide us; surround and fill us.

Leader: Let us pray together…

Offering Our Resources and our Energy

Leader: We know that proclaiming resurrection and daring to dance as we have done this season doesn’t mean that things are all OK. But it does bring us the energy we need if we are to continue to dance the dance of justice and find the steps of service. So let us continue the dance of generosity.

Communion

STEPPING OUT

Song for Stepping Out:

Song for Stepping Out
“The Church’s One Foundation” UMH 546
CCLI Song #1607188
Words: Samuel J. Stone adapt. by Laurance Hull Stookey
Music: Samuel Sebastian Wesley
Tune: Aurelia
Music Source: UMCDiscipleship.org
Used by permission
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329

Benediction
Leader: As poet Rainer Maria Rilke said,

“That designing Spirit,
the mastermind of all things on earth,
loves nothing so much in the sweeping movement of the dance
as the turning point.”

The Day of Pentecost is a turning point for the church – both then and now!
The Spirit lives in us and still calls us to boldness and brilliance,
to be filled with hope and love and joy,
and to dance with the rhythm of that Spirit.
May it be so in us and in all the church!

And may the Loving God,
Risen Christ,
and Dancing Spirit
fill you with all you need
for the days ahead.

And all God’s people said,

“Amen!"

Postlude

www.worshipdesignstudio.com/easterdance - Modified

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sizzlin’ Chicken

The 1st Sizzlin’ Chicken will be held on June 12th, the 2nd Saturday. Offering 1/2 grilled chicken, BBQ sauce and 2 cookies. Price will be $9--no advanced orders

We need some workers on that day to arrive at 11a.m. to set up and to stay until sold out:

1 cashier; 1 server of the chicken; 1 bagger; 1 person to write down names and phone number of the buyers

1 man to help take in tables and chairs at the end

Also, people to make cookies--2 dozen each--putting 2 into a small Ziplock bag

If you can volunteer for any of these positions, please contact Rebecca Schramm--

603-369-9598, rebecca@merrymeadowfarm.com

Thank you so much!!!

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

The 1st Sizzlin’ Chicken will be held on June 12th, the 2nd Saturday. Offering 1/2 grilled chicken, BBQ sauce and 2 cookies. Price will be $9--no advanced orders

We need some workers on that day to arrive at 11a.m. to set up and to stay until sold out:

1 cashier; 1 server of the chicken; 1 bagger; 1 person to write down names and phone number of the buyers

1 cleaner at the end; 1 man to help take in tables and chairs at the end

Also, people to make cookies--2 dozen each--putting 2 into a small Ziplock bag
If you can volunteer for any of these positions, please contact Rebecca Schramm--

603-369-9598, rebecca@merrymeadowfarm.com

Thank you so much!!!

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: (802) 222-9062,
Parsonage phone #: (802) 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com
Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
April’s Collection to Date: $2,980

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

Thank you, Don, for sweeping and mopping the sanctuary

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“From You Comes My Praise: Guide My Steps”
Fifth Sunday of Easter

Prelude
Welcome

GATHERING OUR STRENGTH
Threshold
Pastor: We are a resurrection people! Those who seek new life – new beginnings. And we, the church, must be a place of knowing and growing and accepting love. We hear today the question asked by the Ethiopian eunuch: “Here is water. What is to keep me from being baptized?” As we dance into diversity and acceptance, may the Spirit guide our steps for nothing is keeping us from it!

Dare to dance with dreamers, sing their song,
Dare to dance their stories, sing out strong.
Dare to dance with freedom your whole life long,
Dare to dance again!

Pastor: Dancing requires that we pay attention to the steps, that we watch for the steps of those who have danced this dance of life before – those whose seeking and questioning and dreaming can lead us to seek and hope and dream. Imagine now a dreamer in whose steps you would like to follow. How did they choreograph their dance of life? Now, imagine yourself following their steps with courage and joy!

Leader: This is the call!
Look to the skies be it rain or shine.
People: We lift up our heads to meet the day.
Look around and see that you do not dance alone.
We fortify our hearts with compassion and action.
If rain still lingers, open the umbrellas of praise and set out anyway.
For we are called to dance again!

Opening Song of Praise: “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” UMH 127
CCLI Song # 1448
John Hughes | Peter Williams | William Williams
© Words: Public Domain
Music: Public Domain
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329

Prayer (Unison)
Holy One, Justice-Seeker, Lover of Creation –
Open us to learn new steps of faithfulness.
Give us courage and patience.
Come and dance with us, engage with us, as we seek you –
so that we can be risen with Christ and in Christ.
Be with us now, we pray. Amen.

A Story for the Ages

First Reading: Psalm 22:25-31 (NRSV, adapted)
From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear God. The poor shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek the Holy One shall praise the Lord. May your hearts live forever! All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord. For dominion belongs to the One who rules over the nations. To this One, indeed, shall all who sleep in the earth bow down; and I shall live for God alone.

Posterity will serve God; future generations will be told about the Lord, and proclaim God’s divine deliverance to a people yet unborn, saying that God indeed has done it.

Second Reading: Acts 8:26-39 (NRSV, adapted)

Then an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Get up and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." (This is a wilderness road.) So he got up and went.

Now there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of her entire treasury. He had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning home; seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah.

Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go over to this chariot and join it.” So Philip ran up to it and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?” The eunuch replied, "How can I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to get in and sit beside him.

Now the passage of the scripture that he was reading was this: "Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter, and like a lamb silent before its shearer, so he does not open his mouth. In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who can describe his generation? For his life is taken away from the earth."

The eunuch asked Philip, "About whom, may I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?” Then Philip began to speak, and starting with this scripture, he proclaimed to him the good news about Jesus. As they were going along the road, they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water! What is to prevent me from being baptized?"

He commanded the chariot to stop, and both of them, Philip and the eunuch, went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing.

Sermon
“Siyahamba” is one of those songs that gets the heart to beating, the feet to tapping and hands to clapping. UMCDiscipleship reminds us that it is a freedom song from South Africa, speaking of “protest, struggle and solidarity.”

As we watch the news or check the news on our phones, we see protest and struggle in our own country. The loudest voices are those seeking better treatment for those of brown or black skin, but they are not the only voices crying out for justice and right treatment. Those whose gender identity is other than heterosexual find challenges in the work/school environment as well as life in general, while those who are differently abled have long struggled with equal access to facilities and job opportunities that allow them to become independent.

The eunuch, an important official in the court of the Candace, Queen of Ethiopia, had power and position and enough money to afford a copy of the Isaiah scroll he was reading, but he wasn’t allowed in the inner courts of the Temple in Jerusalem. He was an outsider that could never be on the inside due to his incompleteness as a castrated man.

He is reading aloud from the Isaiah scroll as his chariot travels back toward home, but he is not sure he understands what is written. God places Philip in position to help him understand not only what he was reading, but his own worth. That is grace, God’s putting the right person in the right place at the right time to make a difference.

God uses us in our everyday ordinary lives to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it is to help explain the scriptures to someone seeking to know Jesus better or to advocate for someone being marginalized due to race, ability, gender identity or other reason, God gives us the words, the strength and the knowledge when we need it to help share God’s grace with others.

As we share in the struggle to help others find acceptance, to find justice in a world that rewards those who have power and steps on the backs those who have no power, we speak words of hope in a dark world, we share words of life into a space where darkness and despair often overshadow hope. When we walk in unity with those oppressed, we join in the struggle to bring justice to those who have been used as stepping stones in the path to power for others.

When the eunuch had heard the scriptures proclaimed, he began to have hope, but his question, "Look, here is water! What is to prevent me from being baptized?" suggests that he may have been unsure as to his full acceptance into the community of followers of the Way. Imagine his joy when Philip stopped and took him down to the water and baptized him. “. . . the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing.”

When those who have felt marginalized are welcomed into the community as full participants in the life of the community, when they feel they are worthy participants in all that is happening, imagine their joy.

We need to ‘dare to dance again’ as we experience the Spirit moving within us and within our community for when we follow the Spirit’s lead, we know we are following the pathway that God has set before us. Amen.

Sounds of Resurrection       “Siyahamba”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fi-zd2k8wgQ
CCLI Song # 320947
Anders Nyberg
Andrew Maries
© 1987, 1991 Sovereign Music UK, 1st Verse, rest unaffiliated
South African Freedom Song
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329
Performance: Nouvel Album Chorale Sainte Famille (CONGO Brazzaville)

THE BODY MOVES IN RESPONSE

Prayers of the People
Our Joys
Our Concerns
   Prayers for the Williamstown United Federated Church in Williamstown, VT.
Our God Sightings

Offering Our Resources and our Energy
Leader: How has the testimony of the people in our lives and through the generations guided our steps into dances of praise at the good news that we are loved and blessed?
What transformation is possible as we abide with God and “find our groove” of praise with the congregation? Let us pool our resources and order our steps to bring life and wholeness to the larger community through our offerings this day.

Communion

Celebrant: Will you open yourselves to the grace of Jesus Christ that is always and already available here at this table? If so, say, “Open us to your grace, Lord.”
All: “Open us to your grace, Lord.”
Will you open yourselves once again to the call of Jesus Christ?
If so, say, “Open us to your call, Lord.”
“Open us to your call, Lord.”
Will you open yourselves to the possibility of transformation through Jesus Christ?
If so, say, “Transform us, O Lord.”
“Transform us, O Lord.”

As we prepare to attend the heavenly feast, we especially pray for those who have no earthly tables, or no place at a table, and so little daily bread.

We confess this day that we have been slow to join the dance
that brings life to all, brings love to all, brings sustenance to all.
In silence, let us lift up our prayers of confession...

A time for silent, personal confession

Celebrant: Hear this good news!
God has loved you from the very beginning.
The invitation of Christ is never-ending.
The Holy Spirit is transforming you even now!
In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!
All: In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!
Glory to God! Amen!

The Peace

The Peace of Christ be with you.
And also with you.
Please greet each other as the Body of Christ as you pass the peace of Christ with one another with a wave.

The Great Thanksgiving

Jesus is with us!
With us now and forever!
So lift up your hearts and voices!
We lift them up to God!
Let’s join in thanks and praise!
How right it is to do this together!

Holy Living One, …

… And so we join with the glorious chorus of saints past and present,
singing a never-ending hymn of praise:

Holy, Holy, Holy!
God of power and might,
everywhere we see your glory!
Blessed are they who come in your name.
Hosanna! Alleluia! Amen!

Indeed, you are holy! …

… And so, my friends, we remember. And we believe:

Christ has died. Christ has risen. Christ will come again!

Pour out your Spirit upon us now! …

… All glory to you, Living Presence, Holy One, Holy God,
through Jesus our Christ
and the Holy Spirit our Advocate.
Amen.
Communion

STEPPING OUT

Song for Stepping Out: “I Love to Tell the Story” UMH 156
CCLI Song # 29413
Arabella Catherine Hankey | William Gustavus Fischer
© Words: Public Domain
Music: Public Domain
CCLI License # 11554317
Streaming License: 20810329

Benediction
Leader: Poet and songwriter Leonard Cohen penned these words that we can surely lift to God:

“Dance me to your beauty with a burning violin
Dance me through the panic till I'm gathered safely in
Lift me like an olive branch and be my homeward dove
Dance me to the end of love
Oh, let me see your beauty when the witnesses are gone
Let me feel you moving like they do in Babylon
Show me slowly what I only know the limits of
Dance me to the end of love.”

May we follow the lead of the Spirit as we find expansive ways to dance the dance of love.

And may the Loving God, Risen Christ, and Dancing Spirit fill you with all you need for the days ahead. And all God’s people said,
“Amen!"

Postlude

www.worshipdesignstudio.com/easterdance - Modified
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
5th Sunday of Easter
May 2, 2021                                                 Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: (802) 222-9062,
Parsonage phone #: (802) 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
March's Collections: $2,130.16
April’s Collection to Date: $1,280

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************

April 11, 2021
Second Sunday of Easter
Threshold
Leader: This is the Easter Season! Easter is not just one day of proclaiming that life and love are more powerful than death and hatred, but a whole “week of weeks,” as we call it–seven more weeks of daring to dance our dances with hope and passion. So let us continue our praise!
Dare to dance with dreamers, sing their song, Dare to dance their stories, sing out strong. Dare to dance with freedom your whole life long, Dare to dance again!
Leader: Dancing requires that we pay attention to our dance partners. It requires finding a rhythm together. The Sunday after Easter brings the story of Jesus appearing to the disciples and breathing the Holy Spirit on them. Other scriptures this week point to the power of being together, of finding fellowship in the presence of Jesus and the presence of the community. What does it take to dance together?
Leader: This is the call!
Shake off the dust that has been gathering underfoot.
People: We lift up our heads to meet the day.
Raise your hands in grateful praise.
We fortify our hearts with compassion and action.
If rain still lingers, open the umbrellas of determination and set out anyway. For we are called to dance again!
Opening Song of Praise: “Thine Be the Glory” UMH 308
Prayer: Unison
Holy One, Justice-Seeker, Lover of Creation – You are the restorer of life, the conqueror of all that is death-dealing in our hearts and in this world. Tune us to each other. Come and dance with us, engage with us, as we seek you – so that we can be risen with Christ and in Christ. Be with us now, we pray. Amen.
First Reading: John 20:19-22 (NRSV, adapted)
When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples
Modified from www.worshipdesignstudio.com/easterdance 1
rejoiced when they saw him. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As God has sent me, so I send you.” When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Second Reading: 1 John 1: 1-4 (NRSV, adapted)
We declare to you what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life – this life was revealed, and we have seen it and testify to it, and declare to you the eternal life that was with the very Creator of the universe and was revealed to us – we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with both the Creator and with Jesus the Christ. We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.
Sounds of Resurrection: “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack Sermon
Video
Prayers of the People
Leader: For the beauty of the world in all its diversity, we give you thanks, O God. [Our prayers of Thanksgiving]
Leader: Let us pray together...
People: May our gratitude to you fill our days.
Leader: We need your healing, O Holy One, for our troubled planet, for our nation, for all who are struggling in body, mind, relationships, and spirit. We remember those who are suffering...
[Our prayers of concern]
Leader: Let us pray together...
People: Come, O God, and restore our lives.
Leader: Be with each of us now. May the dance of your Spirit ever call us to engage with you and with the needs around us. Lead us; guide us; surround and fill us. Let us pray together...
People: Come, Holy Spirit, come.
Offering Our Resources and our Energy
Leader: Our dance with God needs fuel and energy. If we are to dance the dance of justice, find the steps of service, invite others to dance with us, we must have the resources that will assure that we have the music and the leadership, the tunes and the teachers to continue this holy dance. It’s a dance of generosity, too. Following the lead of Christ calls us to pour ourselves out for the sake of love. Won’t you give now so that the dance of God can be full and free in this place?
STEPPING OUT
Closing Hymn: “The Summons” – FWS 2130
Benediction
Modified from www.worshipdesignstudio.com/easterdance 2

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Easter Sunday!

New Harbor UMC, Maine
Round Pond UMC, Maine
Grace UMC, Bradford, Vt

Call to Worship (AWA)
Leader: Christ is risen!
All: Alleluia!
Leader: The tomb is empty!
All: Alleluia!
Leader: Christ is alive!
All: Alleluia!

* Opening Hymn: # 302 Christ the Lord is Risen Today

Opening Prayer: (AWA) - Unison
God of hope, in the midst of death, you call forth life. When all hope seemed gone, you raised Jesus from the grave. We come before you today, longing for your life-giving presence. God of new life, raise us up with all your people. Lift us from the tombs of our despair and doubt, that we may rejoice in your power over death. God of joy, fill our hearts with alleluias as we sing your praises. Glory to God. Amen!

Prayer of Confession (AWA) - Unison
God of life and love, like Peter, we gaze into the empty tomb and see only death. Like Mary, we stand weeping over loss. We so often feel hopeless. We don’t recognize any possibility for joy. Surprise us with your work in the world. May we dry our tears, as we dance into new life. Amen.

Words of Assurance (AWA) - Pastor
The risen Jesus offers forgiveness of sins through his name. Rejoice, Jesus gives you new life.

Prayer of Preparation (AWA) - Unison
God of grace, we come today to hear the story of Easter. Open our hearts, that we might hear your truth anew. Be with us on the journey that leads to life and hope. Amen.

Early Church: Acts 10:34-43

Moments for Children of God: Fixed

Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

* Hymn of Preparation: # 310 He Lives

* Gospel: John 20:1-18

Today’s Message: Resurrection Wholeness

Prayers of the people/God sightings:
Pastoral prayer:

Receiving of God’s Tithes and Our Offerings:
* Doxology #95

* Prayer of Dedication: (WWG)
Living God, you give us the greatest gift of all, the gift of new life. Grateful for this gift, we bring our offerings, the work of our hands. Use our gifts to share your word of hope, your promise of forgiveness, and your blessings with all creation. Grateful for your love, we offer ourselves, that we might walk with our neighbors into your garden of love. Amen.

Communion: please have juice and bread available if you choose to partake
The Lord’s Prayer:
* Sending Forth Hymn: # 327 Crown Him with Many Crowns
* Benediction

AWA – From The Abingdon Worship Annual 2021. Copyright © 2020 by Abingdon Press. Used by permission.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

March 28, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle
“Holy, Wholly”
Palm Sunday
Prelude

Welcome and Announcements

Good morning, welcome to this 6th Sunday in Lent, Palm Sunday, at Grace United Methodist Church in Bradford, VT. Whether you are with us on Zoom or watching this on our Facebook page at a later time, know that God loves you and has been with you throughout this past year of social distancing, whether you have noticed God’s presence or not. Our worship series during this special season is focused on “healing,” using Sea/beach glass as an image. Previously we have been reminded of how precious we all are to God, that we are never alone, God is always with us, the importance of telling our stories for our mental health and our need to reenergize our creativity for health. Last week we saw how the health of our planet impacts our own health.

Threshold

When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, just say this, ‘The Lord needs them.’ And he will send them immediately.” This took place to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet, saying,

“Tell the daughter of Zion,
Look, your king is coming to you,
humble, and mounted on a donkey,
and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting,

Repeat after me and start waving those branches!

Leader: “Hosanna to the Son of David!
People: “Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is the one who comes
Blessed is the one who comes
in the name of the Lord!
in the name of the Lord!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?” The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”

The Parade

“Jesus is Coming”
Or
“Hosanna” SongSelect #4785835

Threshold

Leader: We have seen that the stories of Jesus’ healing ministry are filled words and deeds. When he rides into Jerusalem, the people had hopes he would heal the oppressive system they were living under. We know that his healing was not confined to that moment in history, but offers a new way of life that has made a case for compassion for all, especially “the least,” ever since.

As we head into the events of Holy Week, we begin to see that our ability to forgive ourselves and others is the foundation that can transform infirmities and allow us to move on. We integrate our beliefs and actions for the health of the whole. The parade of compassionate power we celebrate today is underscored by a another healing story of transformation, symbolizing our ability to fuel our movement of recovery. We glorify God for beautiful words and works of wholeness and share that treasured beauty with others. We know there will still be pain, but we also know love will win.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.
Prayer for Peace                                           Pastor Kelly Harvell

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness,
no strength known but the strength of love:
so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the
banner of the Prince of Peace,
as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Opening Prayer of Confession

Leader: We have approached confession each week in Lent in such a way that we lay bare the brokenness in order to begin the process of healing. Along the way we have acknowledged our need to restore our own Holy Vessels while attending to our role in the healing of the community and the world. The work of healing will continue as we integrate all we have learned with all that we will do moving forward. For now, we remember how hard it is
to move from thinking to doing.

Let us pray:

Forgiving God,
We have opened ourselves to healing and sometimes it is easier to pray nice prayers
than to do the hard work of putting into action what needs to happen.
Help us remember the sacred nature of the holy vessels that we are,
fragile and susceptible to shattering and yet capable of transformation.
Help us to see ourselves as you see us.
Help us to believe in our ability to change and heal
as you believe in us.

Help us, Healer.
Show us our strength.
Forgive our inertia.
Move us to move
one step at a time toward greater care.

In this silence, we sense and acknowledge our yearning for wholeness.

Silence

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.
Assurance

Assurance

I invite you to return to that warm orb of light that lives deep within you once again. It may already be aglow with the excitement of the parade–the presence of Jesus leading us on. But if you are struggling, or have struggled in this season of recovery, to feel this warmth of assurance within you, do not despair. You are not the one who has to create the light. It just is. And it is a pilot light that never goes out. You will at some time begin to notice it returning to your awareness.

Know this: You are never alone in the struggle.
No. Matter. What.

Jesus is on the journey with us.
Life’s parade is not passing you by.
You are part of this Body of Christ, a community seeking healing.
For you, for me, for all.

Take a deep breath in to let this truth fill you…
and breathe out with the relief of assurance.
Peace

I invite you to imagine the warmth that surrounds you extending to those
who may be next to you in close proximity. Imagine it extending beyond
your walls to
the neighborhood…
the wider community…
the church…
and seeing it spread like the rising sun, let it expand to all the world.
Let this be our peace. Amen.

If you have not already, I invite you to open your eyes.

The peace of Christ is with you.
And also with you.

Time for Children

A Contemporary Word

“We know only too well that what we are doing is nothing more than a drop in the ocean. But if
the drop were not there, the ocean would be missing something.”
― Mother Teresa

“People pay for what they do, and still more for what they have allowed themselves to become.
And they pay for it very simply; by the lives they lead.”
― James Baldwin

“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.”
― William James

“What we do comes out of who we believe we are.”
― Rob Bell

“You can't make yourself feel positive, but you can choose how to act, and if you choose right,
it builds your confidence.”
― Julien Smith

Musical Proclamation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole”

An Ancient Word
Matthew 9: 1-8

And after getting into a boat he crossed the sea and came to his own town. And just then some people were carrying a paralyzed man lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” Then some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Stand up, take your bed and go to your home.” And he stood up and went to his home. When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings.
Song of Preparation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” (refrain only)

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Prayers of the People

Leader: Healer of our every ill,
especially when we find it difficult to believe or trust that sorrow will end,
we come before you to make our petitions known.
Hear our cries for healing of body, mind, and spirit.
We know that already you are at work among us,
showing us the way to recovery from the toxicities and grief of our time.

Even when we cannot seem to believe it,
we know that you see beauty in our brokenness.
We pray especially for those who feel there is no end to sorrow,
that no matter what we do or how hard we work to bring
peace and justice to our world, it feels like we cannot gain traction.
We give thanks that when we cannot bring ourselves to the healing source of your love,
there are others around us that, through words and actions, bring us hope once again.
Help to also be those who offer hope when we have the opportunity
on this parade of compassion called life.

We pray this day for…

CELEBRATIONS:                   PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?                   Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!                   Response: Hear our prayer!

Joys:

Pat’s birthday, 3/23

Concerns:

Young people dealing with mental health issues and homelessness.
People of Newbury—youth detention facility and fears around that.

Prayer of Jesus

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.

And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.
Ritual Action for the Week

Leader: The words of Jesus we heard in this week’s healing story were many, but let us hone in on two words, “Take heart.” The French word for “heart” is “couer” and, besides its reference to the physical heart organ, it also means “courage.” Certainly Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem was a sign to people that they were worthy to be “saved”–the meaning of the cries of “hosanna!” Courage in the face of difficulty, and care in the face of being disheartened, go hand-in-hand.

Healing is not always an absence of illness, but rather a trust that God is holding our brokenness and we can move on in life with assurance, making beauty in the midst of hard times. Last week we wrapped our pieces of beach glass in wire. We have been reminded all week that God restores us to life, wrapping and holding us. This week I invite you to give away what you have created to someone else who needs this reminder.

As you look back on this season of focusing on healing, what is it you learned that you want to now “give away” to others… through your words and your actions?

Take a moment to think on this and then when you are ready, enclose the piece of glass in your hand and hold it to your heart, breathing (“spirare”) deeply and inviting that Spirit to show you your next steps in furthering the healing of your corner of the world, even if it is just your household or neighborhood. And keep your eyes open this week for the right moment, the right person, to receive this gift of beauty from brokenness that you have made. When you give it to them, you might say, “Take heart. You are not alone.”
Closing Song
“I Will Trust in the Lord”
Spiritual, NCH 416, UMH 464
Or
“Take Courage” SongSelect #7074837

Commission

Leader: In this series, we have seen that Jesus’ healing actions often get “buzz” from onlookers. This day we have seen two different reactions from the crowd: shouts of adoration and the scoff of judgment from religious officials. His words and actions seemed to get one or the other–praise or accusations of heresy. But he continued his work anyway. He loved those that were deemed unlovable. He proclaimed healing in the midst of despair. He urged people to give their best in the midst of the worst circumstances. To be followers of Jesus is not an easy task. But it is the way that we become whole once again… to participate in the holy endeavor of bringing the kin-dom on earth as it is in heaven. And as we enter Holy Week, these themes will come into sharp focus. May we follow him, even to the broken places.

We have asked this question each week: How can we as a church community become a “health hub” through our ministry and mission? During this Holy Week, we will…

Much has happened in our country this past year. We have struggled through the hardships of a pandemic that has not only resulted in the loss of many lives but has also damaged the health of numerous survivors who suffer from “long hauler” issues that continue to disrupt their lives. The economic impact, particularly for individuals at the lower ends of the pay scale and small businesses has been dire, with layoffs and permanent business closures. Social justice issues, particularly concerning those of brown and black skin color have been front page stories throughout the year, due to the significance of their impact on families of color as well as the lives of people who identify as “white,” though many of the latter don’t recognize the impact. What can we at Grace UMC in Bradford, VT do about all of the above? Are we so overwhelmed we are unable to respond or is the Holy Spirit nudging us and we are resisting? I invite us to start to talk about what things will look like when we can begin to safely gather in small groups. What are ways we can impact the situation in our community and our state in order to share the love of Jesus with the larger community? I am available Thursday mornings from 9-10 by phone or on Zoom if you want to talk. If that is not a convenient time, call me and we can set up a time to talk or drop me an e-mail with your ideas or a request to talk by phone. Let’s come out of this year of isolation rejuvenated and ready to share God’s love in tangible ways in our community.

Monetary gifts to support the mission and ministries or Grace UMC may be sent through the Church’s website: BradfordUMC.org or by check to: Grace UMC, PO Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033. Thank you for your generosity.

Blessing

Now go with confidence
that God is making us whole and holy,
recovering our depth of love for all
and our joy of living in this world.

May the words of Jesus ring in your ears:
“Take heart.”

And may the Spirit hover, move, and deliver
salve to your soul
and a spring in your step.
Amen.

Threshold Into the World
[reprise of theme song]

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Postlude

“Holy Vessels” worship series copyright Marcia McFee and the Worship Design Studio, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co, All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Threshold Music: “Vessels, Holy and Whole” Words: Marcia McFee, Music: Chuck Bell, All rights reserved, Used by permission.

Song of Preparation: “Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” – Refrain only Words and Tune: Mark Friedman, ©1998 The Lorenz Corporation, All rights reserved, Used by permission.

© www.worshipdesign.com/vessels

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Maundy Thursday Service April 1, 2021, 6:30 p.m.--via Zoom
Sunrise Service April 4, 6:30 a.m. – Deny Park (Gazebo) – Masks and social distancing required.
Wednesdays 2:00 p.m. Bible Study – the Book of Acts--via Zoom
Thursdays 9:00 a.m. – Coffee with the Pastor--via Zoom

Threshold
Leader: We continue our Lenten “season of recovery” as we focus on health as essential to our spiritual lives.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Leader: The demands of following Jesus are great. He shows us that sometimes we must make extraordinary efforts to move in a new direction. As we consider the health of humanity, we cannot ignore the need to heal the very planet that sustains us. We live in increasing chaos of a beleaguered environment and the hoarding of resources. We want to be “saved” by something or someone else, but we discover this week that we are in the boat with the One who shows us our power to turn it around, to calm the storm. We protect the jewel that is our home, restoring something beautiful from scars of the past.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.
Prayer for Peace                                           Pastor Kelly Harvell
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Opening Prayer of Confession
Leader: Let us acknowledge our need to restore, repair, renew our Holy Vessels, especially this holy container of life on which we live–this very planet.
Let us pray:

Life-giving God,
In the beginning, you created this universe with a phrase, “Let it be…”
and the waters and dry land, the sky and the creatures were formed.
You set humanity among these wonders and invited us to care and honor all things.
We have not successfully answered that call.
Seeing the abundance as a feast that would never end, we gorged ourselves,
taking more than we could replenish at a rate that could not be sustained.
We are beginning to comprehend the magnitude, beginning to see that things
cannot just keep going “as usual” and not have dire consequences.
We are frightened, which is partly why we are slow to accept it.
But we now are witnesses to the forces of a world
more broken that when we inherited it:
water, wind, and wave, fire, drought, and earthquake
that signal it is time to pay attention and to make real change.
Too often we think there is nothing we can do–that the change required is too great.
It all feels overwhelming and so we look away,
sometimes even from the small things that could make a difference
for our own community.

Help us, Healer.
Show us our ability to chart a different course.
Forgive our inaction.
Move us to move
one step at a time toward greater care for one another.
In this silence, we sense and acknowledge our yearning for wholeness.

Silence

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.
Assurance

Assurance
I invite you to imagine a warmth begin to arise within the core of your body. It may help to keep your eyes closed. This warm orb of light is deep within you, a flame always there and ready when you need it. This warm glow begins to emerge from the recesses of your inner being and it fills you with determination and courage. It floods your whole body until your skin is glowing with it, radiating outward. You feel strong.

Know this: Jesus asks us to do hard things, to make changes,
knowing we are capable.

No. Matter. What.

We can change in order to heal this jewel planet called home.
The calm of Christ in the storm is available.
For you, for me, for all.

Take a deep breath in to let this truth fill you…
and breathe out with the relief of assurance.

Peace
I invite you to imagine the warmth that surrounds you extending to those who may be next to you in close proximity. Imagine it extending beyond your walls to
the neighborhood…
the wider community…
the church…
and seeing it spread like the rising sun, let it expand to all the world.
Let this be our peace. Amen.

If you have not already, I invite you to open your eyes.

The peace of Christ is with you.
And also with you.

Opening Hymn
“Touch the Earth Lightly”
Or“This Place”
Time for Children

A Contemporary Word

A good person is the friend of all living things.
– Mohandas Gandhi

“The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe,
the less taste we shall have for destruction.”
― Rachel Carson

Twenty five years ago people could be excused for not knowing much about, or doing much, about climate change. Today we have no excuse.
– Desmond Tutu

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.
– John Muir

We don’t inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.
– David Brower

Musical Proclamation
“Bring Healing”

An Ancient Word
Matthew 8: 18-27

Now when Jesus saw great crowds around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side. A scribe then approached and said, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Another of his disciples said to him, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” But Jesus said to him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”

And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. A windstorm arose on the sea, so great that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him up, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, you of little faith?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a dead calm. They were amazed, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?”

Message

Did you hear what Mr. Mark said earlier? During the pandemic, the earth has been healing; smog has cleared so people can see mountain tops and dolphins are entering harbors they left long ago due to shipping traffic. Another thing that has happened is that people have rediscovered nature, which can have a healing effect upon our bodies, minds, and spirits.

Friends, we have been worshiping by Zoom for one year as of today, well technically, as of yesterday since the 21st of March 2020 was our first Sunday on Zoom. Much has changed since March 8, 2020, when we last gathered in person in the Gathering Space. Many in our community, our nation and our world have experienced fear, anxiety, frustration, depression, and other struggles due to our enforced time apart and the reason behind it.

When we saw the disciples, out in the boat with Jesus, perhaps we noticed their anxiety and can find a connection with them as they faced the raging storm around them. Jesus, asleep somewhere on the boat, was obviously exhausted as he slept, oblivious to the near swamping of the boat. I suspect there have been times this year that some, if not all of us have wanted to echo the words of the disciples, “Lord save us! We are perishing!”

The pandemic has been like a storm, raging all around us. On top of that virtual storm, there have been real storms, hurricanes and ice storms, storms of fire and of rain, that have ravaged parts of our country, along with the increasing tensions of race and politics. “Lord, save us! We are perishing!”

I invite you to STOP! Take a slow, deep breath and let it out. Do that again. Breathe in, breathe out. Let the anxiety of just talking about it go. Let the load we talked about sharing with Jesus at the beginning of our journey through Lent be shared and don’t try to take it back on yourself.
Do you remember the 90’s? Do you remember when all the young people started sporting bracelets that said, “WWJD”? (Confession here, by the time this movement came along, I was an adult and thought it hokey, particularly as I was a bit of a cynic and didn’t think they all really took the time to think about what Jesus would have done in a given situation, but it was a nice thought.) So, were Jesus in our midst today, what do you think he would do? “What would Jesus do?”, that is after all what the bracelets proclaimed. Or, perhaps we should ask, “What would Jesus say?” To the disciples he said, “Why are you afraid, you of little faith?”, but what would he say to us? I think on some levels it might be the same, “Why are you afraid, you of little faith?”, but I think he may have gone further than that.
As we look at the world around us and think about all the changes that have happened in some regions due to the decrease in industrial wastes, automobile traffic and exhaust and all the other things that have had a positive impact on the environment, I wonder what Jesus would do/say. I think he would chastise us for our lack of faith; perhaps saying something like, “Don’t you see what God has done to heal the creation in the brief window allowed as people changed their way of living?” I also think he would be teaching about reducing our carbon footprint to help along the healing process. He would be reminding us that GOD created people in God’s image and placed them in a garden; that God then gave the garden into the care of humanity and now, we are in the process of destroying it, like a bunch of toddlers with a new toy. Just as Jesus spoke to the storm, so might God be speaking to the world and to us.
I can hear Jesus on the boat right now, speaking to the storm as a parent would speak to an out-of-control teenager, (after all, the Scripture says, he “rebuked” the storm). Can’t you see it, Jesus saying, “Okay storm, you’ve proven your point, you can blow and blow and stir up the waves, it’s time you got over your snit and put your energy to more practical, useful work.” Or maybe, “Sit down, shut up and behave yourself. You are out of control.”
What do you think he would say to us today? Maybe something like, “Okay, the science is telling you that if you don’t do something, and do it quickly, the earth as you know it, will no longer be able to sustain life as you know it. I’ve already said:
"Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; 35 for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.' “
How do you think you will be able to follow this directive if you destroy the earth’s ability to produce food?” Relief Web estimates that over 100 million people have faced severe shortages over the last four years and the numbers are likely to grow significantly in 2021. (https://reliefweb.int/report/world/call-action-avert-famine-2021) Go to your web browser, type in “Famine” and a year, and you will find a plethora of articles from trusted organizations such as, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), United Nations (UN), and the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief (OXFAM), along with numerous others.
Jesus tended to, “tell it like it is,” holding people accountable for their actions, telling them the truth of how difficult it would be to follow him into a renewed relationship with God, the creator and sustainer of all life.
As we listen to the interaction between Jesus and the disciple whose father had died, we also hear Jesus telling him and us, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”; that it is not a time to dally; we need to get a move on. Jesus made a demand, not a suggestion, ‘God’s kin-dom is the future. If you want to be a part of it, if you want to follow me, the time is now, not later. Let what has happened in the past be in the past. Look now to what is in the future and make the changes appropriate to ensure your welcome in God’s realm.’

Do we want to stand before God at the final judgement and say:
“I know, the scientists told us things were bad, but I didn’t want to believe them, I really liked the life I led. I’m sorry, forgive me, let me come into your kin-dom. I really tried to be good otherwise. I believe that Jesus is my savior.”

Or are we ready to stand up and make the changes that will be difficult, but will help both us and the earth toward a healthier future? Remember, if the earth is not healthy, that will have negative impacts on our lives and the lives of others. Think of this past year, of the changes that have happened that have positively affected our lives and the lives of the world around us. Some have started taking more walks, others having picnics in the yard, most are not driving as much, all of that and more is sustainable and certain levels. Perhaps we can encourage better use of the scarce resources in the world so that our great, great, great grandchildren have a chance at a life of health and happiness without the burdens we are building up as we damage the environment. Perhaps, if we act quickly, if we, “Follow [Jesus], and let the dead bury their own dead.”, we can impact the entire planet, helping those who are the most vulnerable to lead lives worth living, reducing the food insecurity (starvation) of millions of people and in the process, helping others to experience some of the wonders of God’s kin-dom here on earth. Amen.

For more information: Environmental effects of COVID-19 pandemic and potential strategies of sustainability
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7498239/#:~:text=The%20global%20disruption%20caused%20by,parts%20of%20the%20world.
Environmental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, as observed from space
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/12/201208162957.htm

Song of Preparation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” (refrain only)

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.
Prayers of the People

Leader: Healer of our every ill,
especially our fractured creation,
we come before you to make our petitions known.
Hear our cries for healing of body, mind, and spirit.
We know that already you are at work among us,
showing us the way to recovery from the toxicities and grief of our time.

You remind us that that you are in the boat with us in the midst of difficult times.
We give you thanks for this path of following you,
even when you call us to crossover from one way of life to another.

We pray especially for all who are impacted most by dwindling resources.
We pray that we will continue to learn and see and know
how our actions affect others, not just ourselves.
We give thanks for the wake-up calls that our young people are sounding
and we pray for the fortitude to move this journey forward alongside them.
We give thanks for the courage of activists and educators who help us wake up to this storm
and to see that we have it within our power to calm that storm, to restore the earth’s wholeness.
We ask for courage and encouragement to re-evaluate
how we as a church can join this effort now and into the future.

We pray this day for…

CELEBRATIONS:                   PETITIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?                   Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Alleluia!                   Response: Hear our prayer!

Prayers from last week:
   Joys:

- Bob B.’s 82 birthday is Tuesday, March 16
- Gayle B. hanging out with mom
- Seeing Debbie, Gayle, & Stephanie
- Hints of Spring
- Pauline coming home from rehab on March 16

Concerns:

- Bob B. with health issues
- Jenny, 5 days with chemo then 2 weeks off until July

Prayer of Jesus

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.

And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.
Ritual Action for the Week
Leader: The words of Jesus we highlight this week from the healing story are “follow me and let the dead bury their own dead.” This may seem like harsh words. And yet we hear Jesus’ urgency. Now is the time to move, no matter how difficult, we cannot wait. What is past is past. There is brokenness and there are casualties in its wake. But we can move forward. We can make changes. We can face storms because we are a people led by the Healer, the Calm-in-the-Storm who can offer us faith in the midst of fear.

And so this week for our symbolic ritual action, we are going to restore some beauty by adding to the beauty of our glass pieces. You received thin craft wire and you are invite to wrap some of that wire around one of your pieces of beach glass, creating a pendant that can be hung in a window or as a necklace, a constant reminder of our role as those who must “take care,” must care for and contribute to, rather than diminish, the beauty of this earth.

Take some time now to do this simple wrapping and crafting with the wire and glass. We invite you to take a photo if you can and share it with us via [social media, e-mail, etc]. We will use these imagines in our worship next week.
Closing Song
“On the Beach, the Waves of Water”
Or“For the Wholeness of the Earth”

Leader: This week the reaction of the crowd in the story is amazement at Jesus’ connection to the cosmic forces of wind and wave. As scientists now try to teach us, all things are connected. We are part and parcel of all creation. Rather than dominion, we are to be a-tuned to all around us. We see the cry of creation in awakened natural disasters and we must heed the call not to hide in fear, but to work for healing.

And so in our communal discerning about how this church community could become a “health hub” through our ministry and mission, let us put our minds to imagining how we can learn about innovative ways that are being created to revive our communities. Who are the bright spots of life among us, among our civic, political, neighborhood organizing leaders that are working passionately to alleviate the devastating effects of the pandemics that have raged among us. I invite you to explore with us the possibilities for a new or renewed commitment to a contribution we can make at Grace United Methodist Church to our larger community’s effort to recover from this past year.

Much has happened in our country this past year. We have struggled through the hardships of a pandemic that has not only resulted in the loss of many lives but has also damaged the health of numerous survivors who suffer from “long hauler” issues that continue to disrupt their lives. The economic impact, particularly for individuals at the lower ends of the pay scale and small businesses has been dire, with layoffs and permanent business closures. Social justice issues, particularly concerning those of brown and black skin color have been front page stories throughout the year, due to the significance of their impact on families of color as well as the lives of people who identify as “white,” though many of the latter don’t recognize the impact. What can we at Grace UMC in Bradford, VT do about all of the above? Are we so overwhelmed we are unable to respond or is the Holy Spirit nudging us and we are resisting? I invite us to start to talk about what things will look like when we can begin to safely gather in small groups. What are ways we can impact the situation in our community and our state in order to share the love of Jesus with the larger community? I am available Thursday mornings from 9-10 by phone or on Zoom if you want to talk. If that is not a convenient time, call me and we can set up a time to talk or drop me an e-mail with your ideas or a request to talk by phone. Let’s come out of this year of isolation rejuvenated and ready to share God’s love in tangible ways in our community.

Monetary gifts to support the mission and ministries or Grace UMC may be sent through the Church’s website: BradfordUMC.org or by check to: Grace UMC, PO Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033. Thank you for your generosity.

Blessing

Now go with confidence
that we can face the storm with Jesus in the boat,
recovering our depth of love for all
and our joy of living in this world.

May the words of Jesus ring in your ears:
“follow me.”

And may the Spirit hover, move, and deliver
salve to your soul
and a spring in your step.
Amen.

Threshold Into the World
[reprise of theme song]

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Postlude

“Holy Vessels” worship series copyright Marcia McFee and the Worship Design Studio, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co, All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Threshold Music: “Vessels, Holy and Whole” Words: Marcia McFee, Music: Chuck Bell, All rights reserved, Used by permission.

Song of Preparation: “Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” – Refrain only Words and Tune: Mark Friedman, ©1998 The Lorenz Corporation, All rights reserved, Used by permission.

© www.worshipdesign.com/vessels

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033, Church phone #: (802) 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: (802) 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com,
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
March's Collection to Date: $555.00

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
March 14, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

“Different Pictures”
Fourth Sunday in Lent

Prelude

Welcome and Announcements
Wednesdays 2:00 p.m. Bible Study – the Book of Acts Via Zoom
Thursdays 9:00 a.m. – Coffee with the Pastor – Via Zoom

Threshold
Leader: We continue our Lenten “season of recovery” as we focus on health as essential to our spiritual lives.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Leader: Prolonged times of difficulty can impede our ability to stay creative. The picture of our lives is dulled and hope for a brighter future can fade. We need a touch of inspiration to awaken us from our sleep, as we hear in one of this week’s healing stories. We also awaken to our agency to seek out the Divine Healer, reaching out to touch the power we know can restore our intellect and imagination. We emerge ready to re-engage with the world, seeking and seeing solutions, creating different pictures of life renewed just as a mosaic artist creates beauty from broken pieces of glass.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Prayer for Peace                                       Pastor Kelly Harvell
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

LEADER: Let us acknowledge our need to restore, repair, renew our Holy Vessels so that we might be able to create and imagine new possibilities, new solutions.

Let us pray:

God of All Possibilities,
Made in your image, you have tasked us as co-creators of a better world. You bestowed imagination and the ability to learn and progress.
But we are tired. Our energy wanes and enthusiasm wanes.
The call for ideas, solutions, work-arounds and adaptations has been non-stop for us all–whether we are needing to find ways to keep children engaged and well, or figuring out how to maintain a passion for our work win the midst of trying times,
or needing desperately to undo systems of oppression too long affecting
our lives and the lives of our neighbors.
Not only our livelihoods, but our liveliness is at stake.
Too often we want to give up, declare it all too hard and simply isolate,
waiting out the time for better days.
It all feels overwhelming and so we look away,
sometimes even from the need in our own community.

Help us, Healer.
Show us our energy reserves.
Forgive our cynicism.
Move us to move
one step at a time toward greater care for one another.

In this silence, we sense and acknowledge our yearning for wholeness.

Silence

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Assurance

I invite you to imagine a warmth begin to arise within the core of your body. It may help to keep your eyes closed. This warm orb of light is deep within you, a flame always there and ready when you need it. This warm glow begins to emerge from the recesses of your inner being to fill and flood your whole body until your skin is glowing with it, radiating outward. This light from you offers a beacon for those around you, whose own light reflects and multiplies your own. There is now exponentially more radiance.

Know this: We are gifted with agency to affect healing in the world.
No. Matter. What.
We are not alone and we can join with others to magnify hope.
Christ will answer when we call, when we reach out for what we know can help.
For you, for me, for all.

Take a deep breath in to let this truth fill you…
and breathe out with the relief of assurance.

Peace

I invite you to imagine the warmth that surrounds you extending to those who may be next to you in close proximity. Imagine it extending beyond your walls to
the neighborhood…
the wider community…
the church…
and seeing it spread like the rising sun, let it expand to all the world.
Let this be our peace. Amen.

If you have not already, I invite you to open your eyes.

The peace of Christ is with you.
And also with you.

Opening Hymn
“O Love that Will Not Let Me Go”
Chalice 540, GTG 833, NCH 485, UMH 780, VU 658
See lyrics and music HERE
Or
“Mighty to Save” SongSelect #4591782
Time for Children

A Contemporary Word

A single event can awaken within us a stranger totally unknown to us.
To live is to be slowly born.”
― Antoine de Saint-Exuper

“When one realizes one is asleep, at that moment one is already half-awake.”
― P. D. Ouspensky

The authentic self is the soul made visible.”
– Anonymous

“Get out of your comfort zone. Wake up the sleeping giant in you.”
– Dr. T. P. Chia

“Curiosity is the first step down the path of awakening.”
– Anonymous

“The path of awakening is not about becoming who you are.
Rather it is about unbecoming who you are not.”
— Albert Schweitzer

Musical Proclamation
“I Dream of a World (Church)”
Purchase solo HERE. Listen to a duet version HERE

An Ancient Word
Matthew 9: 18-26

While he was saying these things to them, suddenly a leader of the synagogue came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus got up and followed him, with his disciples. Then suddenly a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his cloak, for she said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. When Jesus came to the leader’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, “Go away; for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. And the report of this spread throughout that district.
Sermon

Okay, so how many of us are tired, tired of the constant drag of virtual worship, virtual meetings, virtual classrooms…?

How many of us feel like we get up each morning and must focus on putting one foot in front of the other just to get through our day?

The constant reminders to “Put on your masks when you are with others,” “Wash your hands,” “don’t get so close together,” “Take out dining only,” and the like tell their own stories in this time of pandemic.

When we started a year ago, most never expected that things would be the way they are for so long. We worked to find ways to worship and stay in touch with one another and discovered the gift and the difficulties of technology. Our children who were just leaning to play with others “nicely” have been told for the last year that they can’t play with others outside their pod, and we have had to work at home trying to come up with new ways to keep then entertained. I applaud those who are teachers, innovating new ways to keep students engaged with learning when they either must learn remotely or must stay distanced from one another even in the classroom.

This pandemic is draining our creativity, our energy. Sometimes writers complain of “writers block” a time when their creative juices are at a low point and they just can’t seem to get words on paper. Other artists can have similar problems, in fact we all go there once in a while, though this year it is probably wider spread than ever.

Imagine the struggle for those who are advocating for social justice changes in our country and in our world. While much has spilled over into the streets in the form of protests and riots, trying to keep people focused on the rights and needs of those living on the margins of society, trying to keep others engaged in trying to change a system that is weighted against them grows more and more difficult over time as fatigue often sets in and folks drift on to the next thing that catches the eye.

Think about the woman in our story, the woman who has suffered the stigma associated with a twelve-year hemorrhage. Levitical Law would have treated her as an outcast, as unclean. No one would be allowed to touch her; she could not even enter the women’s court at the Temple, because to do so would have defiled the space. She touches the fringe of Jesus’ cloak, making that garment and Jesus both unclean. How brave she was. How faith filled she was.

Most men, having been touched by a woman such as this, would have been mortified and likely angry. Women were considered of a lower value than men to begin with and should not be touching a man that is not a family member. With the situation of ritual impurity in question, it would have infuriated many. Jesus, on the other hand, speaks to her, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” Jesus sees to the inner person, the broken person, worn out by many years of struggle, of trying every “cure” in the book. Healing, in this case, sounds like it goes hand in hand with curing. The woman is physically cured, returning her to social acceptance, but also heals the brokenness that weighs her down.

When Jesus finally reaches the home of the little girl, he again is walking into a situation that would potentially make him ritually unclean. The mourning has already begun, the flute players are already in place and friends and family gathering outside the home. As Jesus arrives, he takes note of all of this and sends everyone away saying, “Go away; for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” Jesus hasn’t even been in to see the girl, again a female and a child to boot, so how can he know she is “sleeping” and “not dead.” This brings on a round of laughter, but the people begin to leave the house. Once they are gone, Jesus goes in to see the girl, this time initiating the touching as he takes her by the hand and calls her to get up, restoring her to life.

In the midst of all that has happened in the past year, it sometimes feels like we need to be reinvigorated, restored to life, as the little girl was. We are tired; we are frustrated, and we need to be re-energized. Our brokenness, like that of the woman with the hemorrhage, needs to be addressed so we can be healed, even if we are not cured. We need Jesus to tell us, “they are not dead but sleeping.”

As we have used sea/beach glass as a focal point for our brokenness, think about what new thing might come out of this pandemic for yourself, for our congregation, that shows that we are indeed not dead, just sleeping. What do we need to once more get our creative juices flowing as we seek to counter the challenges that still lie ahead, even though the vaccine is becoming more and more available? Is it an art project where we might find bits of glass or rocks or other items to use for a focal point for our prayer time? Is it using art in our prayer time to help us focus on God as we doodle and pray about others? Maybe it is just taking a walk in the neighborhood enjoying and appreciating the many gifts God has given us in creation. Whatever it is, invite Jesus to be a part of it, to guide and focus it. Remember too, we must approach Jesus, like the woman with the hemorrhage, of some of the others we have been reading and hearing about. We must have faith as we reach out that in touching even the hem of Jesus cloak, we can be healed and given new life.

Song of Preparation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” (refrain only)
URW 160; SongSelect #3315976
https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/make-us-holy-make-us-whole-digital-sheet-music/20343748

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Prayers of the People

Leader: Healer of our every ill,
especially our malady of exhausted spirits,
we come before you to make our petitions known.
Hear our cries for healing of body, mind, and spirit.
We know that already you are at work among us,
showing us the way to recovery from the toxicities and grief of our time.

You remind us that we do not have to shoulder everything alone.
We give you thanks that all we must do is orient ourselves toward your divine spirit to accompany us, touch us, inspire us, heal us.

We pray especially for all who feel opportunity and possibility is cut off to them.
Whose spirit is continually dampened and damaged by those who fail to see value in their contributions, who steal away rights to the fullness of expression.
We give thanks for communities, churches, non-profits, and businesses
that are supporting the flourishing of all voices, especially voices that have been silenced.
We give thanks for the courage of innovators who use their resources and creativity to make more good in the world, making this a priority over profit.
We ask for courage and encouragement to re-evaluate
how we as a church can join this effort now and into the future.

We pray this day for…

Celebrations: L: Alleluia? Petitions: L: Lord, in Your mercy,
                        P: Alleluia!    P: Hear our prayer!

Prayers from last week:
Joys:

Thankful for the gift of the vaccine

Concerns:

Peggy, Elinor, Gwen, John, Bob (Sue’s cousins)
Nick with lymphoma
Catherine
Young people who are struggling
Bob B. – multiple doctor appt.

Prayer of Jesus

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Ritual Action for the Week
Leader: The words of Jesus we highlight this week from the healing story are “the girl is not dead, but sleeping.” We have touched today on our need to be rejuvenated in spirit, to awaken with new vigor for creativity and curiosity. This is the intellectual healing that is a spiritual healing. We may feel like we have been slowly dying away these last few months, but Jesus affirms that we are not dying… we perhaps are sleeping. It is the healing we yearn for… to be awakened, brought back to life with vitality and vigor for the days ahead.

And so this week, I invite you being to play with creating a “different picture” from the brokenness. I invite you to take your broken pieces and move them around on a flat surface as a mosaic artist would try various configurations when making a work of art. Even when the raw materials of our lives that we have to work with feel broken, we can get a new perspective that can awaken a new vision for life within us.

When you are ready and have found placement of your pieces that bring a spark of delight, you are invited to take a photo of it. If you use a “wallpaper” on your phone, consider using your photo this week in this way, a reminder that we are capable of reworking, remaking, the pictures of what “life” can be. If this technology is not part of your world, keep your mosaic creation on the table where you can see it frequently, using it as a focal point for prayer.
Closing Song
“Be Thou My Vision”
Chalice 595, GTG 450, UMH 451, VU 642, NCH 451, Songselect #30639
Or
“You Love Awakens Me” SongSelect #7054720

Commission
Leader: Each week we look at the reaction of the crowd in the healing story. This week there is an interesting reaction at Jesus’ notion that the girl was not dead. They laughed. Full-blown funeral rites had begun, flutes and all. And yet Jesus said, this is not the end of this story. The idea that we could come back to life better than before, that we could find some way to bring life back to what feels dead, may seem preposterous to some at this point. Laughable. But, like Jesus, we need not be deterred. Can we forge ahead, enter the “house” of sorrow and dare to proclaim that can still exist?

And so in our communal discerning about how this church community could become a “health hub” through our ministry and mission, let us put our minds to imagining how we can learn about innovative ways that are being created to revive our communities. Who are the bright spots of life among us, among our civic, political, neighborhood organizing leaders that are working passionately to alleviate the devastating effects of the pandemics that have raged among us. I invite you to explore with us the possibilities for a new or renewed commitment to a contribution we can make at Grace United Methodist Church to our larger community’s effort to recover from this past year.

Much has happened in our country in the past couple of weeks. Texas has suffered a catastrophic failure of its electric grid leaving people with frozen pipes and damaged homes and businesses. The United Methodist Committee On Relief (UMCOR) is working to assess and assist as necessary. Other areas of our country have suffered from fires, hurricanes and other weather-related phenomena, UMCOR is ready and willing to assist in what ever ways they can. 100% of donations for UMCOR US Disaster Relief go directly to disaster relief in the US. By making checks payable to: Grace UMC and putting US Disaster Relief on the message line of your check, or writing US Disaster Relief in the message box on PayPal when you donate through our website, not only does the money go to UMCOR, but our congregation receives credit through the conference for our generosity.

Monetary gifts to support the mission and ministries or Grace UMC may be sent through the Church’s website: BradfordUMC.org or by check to: Grace UMC, PO Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033. Thank you for your generosity.

Blessing

Now go with confidence
that we will awaken, we will seek out and reach for
the healing solutions that our neighbors, our communities, our world needs,
recovering our depth of love for all
and our joy of living in this world.

May the words of Jesus ring in your ears:
“You are not dead, you are sleeping.”

And may the Spirit hover, move, and deliver
salve to your soul
and a spring in your step.
Amen.

Threshold Into the World
[reprise of theme song]

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Postlude

© www.worshipdesignstudio.com/vessels

“Holy Vessels” worship series copyright Marcia McFee and the Worship Design Studio, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co, All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Threshold Music: “Vessels, Holy and Whole” Words: Marcia McFee, Music: Chuck Bell, All rights reserved, Used by permission.

Song of Preparation: “Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” – Refrain only Words and Tune: Mark Friedman, ©1998 The Lorenz Corporation, All rights reserved, Used by permission.

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033
Church phone #: (802) 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: (802) 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com
Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
February's Collection to Date: $2,796.59

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Ministers: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
March 7, 2021                                           Pastor Ami Sawtelle

“Stories”
Third Sunday in Lent

Prelude

Welcome and Announcements
Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 6:30 p.m. Administrative Council Meeting – Via Zoom
Wednesdays 2:00 p.m. Bible Study – the Book of Acts Via Zoom
Thursdays 9:00 a.m. – Coffee with the Pastor – Via Zoom

Threshold

Leader: We continue our Lenten “season of recovery” as we focus on health as essential to our spiritual lives.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Prayer for Peace                                        Pastor Kelly Harvell
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love:
so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace,
as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.
LEADER: Let us acknowledge our need to restore, repair, renew our Holy Vessels, and that the health of our minds deeply affects our physical and spiritual health.

Let us pray:

Centering and Calming Divine Breath of God,
You gifted us with amazing minds, capable of so many things. You gave us the ability to think and feel, imbuing us with discernment of thought and emotion.
Like our physical bodies, sometimes this aspect of our selves is beleaguered.
We struggle under the strain of disappointment, despair, and delusion.
Too often we hide this, afraid of what others might think of our difficulties in managing or moving forward, even in the face of devastating circumstances.
Too often we perpetuate the stigma of a less-than-perfect state of mind
by shaming ourselves and others.
Millennia of misunderstanding compounds our fear.
We label and belittle, all the while turning the hatred upon ourselves,
for no one is immune from troubles of the mind at some point.
So many are suffering now, God, weary and distraught, grieving and at the end of their rope.
We cannot fathom the proportions of loss and so we look away,
sometimes even from the need in our own community.

Help us, Healer.
Show us our capacity for compassion.
Forgive our inattention.
Move us to move
one step at a time toward greater care for one another.

In this silence, we sense and acknowledge our yearning for wholeness.

Silence

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Assurance

I invite you to imagine and search for a warmth at the core of your body. It may help to keep your eyes closed. This warm orb of light is deep within you, although sometimes it feels dulled, even cold. If it feels this way now, allow this. Do not judge yourself. Perhaps you DO feel this warmth and all feels right with the world. This just is. You likely will not always feel that way. Whether or not you feel the warmth of peace and assurance right now, this does not make you right or wrong, good or bad. It just makes you human. And you are not alone. Perhaps you can imagine the warmth coming from someone whose presence fills you with comfort. See it radiate from them to you, as it does when you need it most.

Know this: You are accepted.
No. Matter. What.
Accepting the truth of our difficulties is part of the journey of recovery.
Sharing our stories of difficulty can open the way for healing.
For you, for me, for all.

Take a deep breath in to let this truth fill you…
and breathe out with the relief of assurance.

Peace

I invite you to imagine the warmth that surrounds you extending to those who may be next to you in close proximity. Imagine it extending beyond your walls to
the neighborhood…
the wider community…
the church…
and seeing it spread like the rising sun, let it expand to all the world.
Let this be our peace. Amen.

If you have not already, I invite you to open your eyes.

The peace of Christ is with you.
And also with you.

Opening Hymn

“Be Still My Soul”
Chalice 566, GTG 819, NCH 488, UMH 746, VU 652
See lyrics and music HERE
Or
“Be Still My Soul” SongSelect #6534077

Time for Children

A Contemporary Word

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
— Maya Angelou

“Sharing our truths can provide the opportunity for great healing.”
— Kristen Noel

“Tell the story of the mountain you climbed.
Your words could become a page in someone else’s survival guide.”
— Morgan Harper Nichols

“Part of the healing process is sharing with other people who care.”
— Jerry Cantrell

Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process
is the bravest thing that we will ever do.”
— Brené Brown

“Sometimes the most healing thing to do is remind ourselves over and over and over,
other people feel this too.”
— Andrea Gibson

“The courage it takes to share your story might be the very thing
someone else needs to open their heart to hope.”
— Unknown

“Your heartache is someone else’s hope.
If you make it through, somebody else is going to make it through.
Tell your story.”
— Kim McManus

Musical Proclamation
“There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy”
See many versions at JW Pepper
More advanced
More simple

An Ancient Word
Matthew 9: 27-33

As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, crying loudly, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you.” And their eyes were opened. Then Jesus sternly ordered them, “See that no one knows of this.” But they went away and spread the news about him throughout that district. After they had gone away, a demoniac who was mute was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the one who had been mute spoke; and the crowds were amazed and said, “Never has anything like this been seen in Israel.”

Sermon

Sea/beach glass. Let’s look at this piece. What does it look like? Does it look particularly special, beautiful, valuable? I wonder what its story is. I wonder where it came from, what it looked like before it ended up in the ocean, tossed and tumbled by waves, polished by the actions of water and sand.

Look at yourself, what is your story? What did you look like before the ebb and flow of daily life buffeted and polished you, before the challenges of life began to erode parts of your surface?

I gained a fascination in archeology in junior high school that has stayed with me. Imagine then my excitement when I visited the ruins of ancient Babylon while I was deployed to Iraq, seeing the roadway made of bitumen, that was laid long before Jesus was born.

Archeologists seek the truth of ancient civilizations as they examine fragments of pottery, mostly destroyed walls, metal artifacts and more. Some beach goers, when they find a bit of sea/beach glass try to figure out its origins, looking at color and folds and the like, wondering what the truth is behind this polished and so changed bit of litter, for what is now a treasure, was once just tossed aside as worthless junk.

See, we are like the sea/beach glass. We may not ever know or understand the full story behind who we are, the truth of what has happened in our lives that has made us the way we are. We may not recognize the true beauty that is us, but Jesus can see beyond our brokenness, beyond the scuff marks and cracks.

Mental health, all of us have it, some are healthier that others, but the actions of the world around us, of the traumas and the comforts, of the genetics sometimes and sometimes the nurture play a role in the development of who we are, what we are. Too often people focus on the scarred, cracked surface with all the scuff marks and cracks that life has delivered, seeing only a piece of worthless junk, failing to recognize the precious, prized vessel of grace and beauty from which we have come, the polished gem that we are becoming.

Jesus encounters three (3) individuals in today’s story; two are blind and the third possessed by a demon that caused him to be mute. All three were broken in their own way, imagine the mental anguish of a blind man (they were not perfect, they could only enter so far into the temple, never into the inner court for worship) or of the one possessed by the demon that caused muteness - what must he have thought of himself?

Jesus recognizes the beauty of the individual God created, not some ugly, unlovable, broken piece of junk, and, seeing these men as the broken people they are, heals their physical ills, but also positively impacts their mental health as well, as with the physical healing, they are welcomed back into society.

God, through Jesus, gave the mute man the opportunity to speak. He could speak of the struggles he had had, he could talk about the challenges, and he could begin the journey to true wholeness.

We must learn to speak of our own struggles, to not be ashamed of the things that have shaped us, but instead to examine them in the light of Jesus so that we can see them for what they are and begin the process of being reshaped into the person God made us to be. Sometimes we need to speak truth to ourselves, other times we need to share that truth with another to aid them in their own healing or to help us let go of some injury that is holding us back. Through it all, we need to let Jesus light the way; let him show us what we need in order that we will be healed.

Jesus, as he healed the blind men said, “According to your faith let it be done to you.” Healing happened through trust that Jesus could do what the blind men believed he could do.

We need to have faith in Jesus also, to trust that he is able to see beyond our brokenness, beyond the scuff marks, cracks and marred surface to the precious vessel God created us to be. We need to trust he can lead us beyond the damage that has happened to us. He will help heal the broken pieces that keep the negative tape running, the tape that tells us how terrible we are. He will replace the tape with a new one that tells us we are indeed valuable, we are indeed beautiful in the eyes of God. Just like the bit of glass found on the beach, we can be gemlike in our beauty as we live into the promise of salvation in Jesus and a home in God’s kin-dom.

Song of Preparation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” (refrain only)
URW 160; SongSelect #3315976
https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/make-us-holy-make-us-whole-digital-sheet-music/20343748

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Prayers of the People

Leader: Healer of our every ill,
especially our malady of stigmatized fear of mental illness,
we come before you to make our petitions known.
Hear our cries for healing of body, mind, and spirit.
We know that already you are at work among us,
showing us the way to recovery from the toxicities and grief of our time.

You have stamped each one of us as “worthy.”
We give you thanks that your mercy is wide
and your faithfulness to us not depend upon
having our feelings sorted out or our sense of well-being secure.
You are not waiting for us to “get our act together” before
offering us your love and grace.

We pray especially for those who have experienced
heightened and acute mental and emotional difficulties as a result
of this past year of isolation and fear.
We pray for those who feel far from hope
and we mourn those who could not find a lifeline to survive this hardship.
We pray for those who find themselves without access to adequate care,
someone to talk to, or appropriate resources to steady their hearts and minds.
We give thanks for those who are telling their stories,
showing us how to open our hearts to help others
and offering ripples of healing in the community.
We pray grateful thanks for progress toward holistic healthcare
and the efforts of all who are working to de-stigmatize mental illness,
making it easier to ask for, and get, the help so desperately needed.
We ask for courage and encouragement to re-evaluate
how we as a church can help now and into the future.

We pray this day for…

CELEBRATIONS:
Leader: Alleluia?
Response: Alleluia!

PETITIONS:
Leader: Lord in your mercy,
Response: Hear our prayer!

Prayers from last week:
   Joys:
       Call with friends in Maine
       Elizabeth has arrived on the East Coast
       Cousins in Texas have not suffered losses from the failure of the electric grid
       More folks getting their vaccines
   Concerns:
       Catherine and those depressed who can’t find their way out
       Keith Michelson
       Family and friends of two (2) women who died suddenly

Prayer of Jesus

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.

And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Ritual Action for the Week

Leader: The words of Jesus we heard in this week’s healing story were “Do you believe I am able to do this?” Jesus’ question invites us to consider our own belief in transformation. He invites us to step into a renewed vision of our lives, to speak into being a new story, not be bound by the stories of the past, inscribed on us by others, that may be oppressing and limiting us.

Last week we put our glass pieces in a bowl. Beach glass is usually somewhat cloudy when dry. When it comes into contact with water, it becomes clear and bright. Today, you are invited to fill your vessel containing the pieces with water and watch the transformation. As you do, let it be a prayer for clarity. Ask for a new way to see the struggles you may be experiencing. Ask for understanding and a way forward.

Take a moment to think on this and then when you are ready, pick up the container of broken pieces, now bright and clear in the water, and breathe deeply, inviting the Spirit to live and move and transform you and others who need clarity for their lives. Keep the bowl in a place you will see it regularly this week… perhaps in a bathroom near the place where you shower or bathe.

Closing Song
“There is a Balm in Gilead”
Chalice 501, GTG 792, UMH 375 (or 741), VU 612, NCH 553
Or
“Balm of Gilead” SongSelect #2365453

Leader: Each week we look at the reaction of the crowd in the healing story. This week the crowd was amazed and cried out that nothing like it had ever been seen before. How interesting that the crowd is “seeing” something for the first time, just like the blind man is brought to sight! Could it be that this is as important to the story as the ones who received physical healing? How could we open our eyes, figuratively, in new ways? What do we need to envision anew?

And so, in our communal discerning about how this church community could become a “health hub” through our ministry and mission, let us put our minds to imagining how we could shine a positive light on the work of mental health. The needs are so urgent, especially now. Throughout this time, I invite you to explore with us the possibilities for a new or renewed commitment to a contribution we can make at Grace United Methodist Church to our larger community’s effort to recover from this past year.

Much has happened in our country in the past few weeks. Texas has suffered a catastrophic failure of its electric grid, Kentucky is struggling with flooding and the list goes on. The United Methodist Committee On Relief (UMCOR) is working to assess and assist as necessary. Other areas of our country have suffered from fires, hurricanes and other weather-related phenomena, UMCOR is ready and willing to assist in whatever ways they can. 100% of donations for UMCOR US Disaster Relief go directly to disaster relief in the US. By making checks payable to: Grace UMC and putting US Disaster Relief on the message line of your check, or writing US Disaster Relief in the message box on PayPal when you donate through our website, not only does the money go to UMCOR, but our congregation receives credit through the conference for our generosity.

Monetary gifts to support the mission and ministries or Grace UMC may be sent through the Church’s website: BradfordUMC.org or by check to: Grace UMC, PO Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033. Thank you for your generosity.

Blessing

Now go with confidence
that the One Who Is Living Water
is already cleansing, renewing, and clarifying our lives,
recovering our depth of love for all
and our joy of living in this world.

May the words of Jesus ring in your ears:
“Do you believe it is possible?”

And may the Spirit hover, move, and deliver
salve to your soul
and a spring in your step.
Amen.

Threshold Into the World
[reprise of theme song]

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Postlude

“Holy Vessels” worship series copyright Marcia McFee and the Worship Design Studio, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co, All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Threshold Music: “Vessels, Holy and Whole” Words: Marcia McFee, Music: Chuck Bell, All rights reserved, Used by permission

Song of Preparation: “Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” – Refrain only Words and Tune: Mark Friedman, ©1998 The Lorenz Corporation, All rights reserved, Used by permission.

© www.worshipdesign.com/vessels

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Bible Study – the book of Acts – Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m.
Coffee with the pastor Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.

Threshold

Leader: We continue our Lenten “season of recovery” as we focus on health as essential to our spiritual lives.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Leader: God gathers us as a Beachcomber gathers and marvels at every precious surviving piece of beach glass she finds. We are never alone, we are never lost to the One who seeks humanity’s wholeness. We affirm our commitment to be the Body of Christ that knows we cannot be personally healed until we see the interconnected community as part of the process of healing. Jesus has the power to re-vision the family of God in which false boundaries are overcome. In a year of devastating loss of livelihood, we consider the economic health that reimagines status quo.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.
Prayer for Peace                                        Pastor Kelly Harvell
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Let us seek to simplify this moment, slow down for a time. Let us worship, leaning on prayer, reflection and sharing with one another.

Opening Prayer of Confession

Leader: Let us acknowledge our need to restore, repair, renew our Holy Vessels, which include the communities of which we are a part. Let us pray:

God of All,
You created us for each other. You set in us a yearning for companionship and an empathy that binds us together, protecting each other and delighting in one another.
Yet too often we have broken down our relationships instead of building them up.
We have been set against one another with the lie of scarcity.
We have built systems and economies that widen the gap of resources
rather than safeguarding equitable practices.
Too many, and growing numbers, are suffering hardship, food insecurity, joblessness.
We cannot fathom the proportions of loss and so we look away,
sometimes even from the need in our own community.

Help us, Healer.
Show us our empathy.
Forgive our complacence.
Move us to move
one step at a time toward greater care for one another.

In this silence, we sense and acknowledge our yearning for wholeness.

Silence

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Assurance

Again this week, I invite you to imagine a warmth begin to arise within the core of your body. It may help to keep your eyes closed. This warm orb of light is deep within you, a flame always there and ready when you need it. This warm glow begins to emerge from the recesses of your inner being to fill and flood your whole body until your skin is glowing with it, radiating outward. This warmth that wraps you as a blanket of assurance is one you want to share. You want all to feel this presence, to kindle this hope.

Know this: God’s love and grace surround you…
No. Matter. What.
You are a precious and holy vessel right now.
Christ’s light is a treasure given freely.
For you, for me, for all.

Take a deep breath in to let this truth fill you…
and breathe out with the relief of assurance.

Peace
I invite you to imagine the warmth that surrounds you extending to those who may be next to you in close proximity. Imagine it extending beyond your walls to
the neighborhood…
the wider community…
the church…
and seeing it spread like the rising sun, let it expand to all the world.
Let this be our peace. Amen.

If you have not already, I invite you to open your eyes.

The peace of Christ is with you.
And also with you.

Opening Hymn
“Community of Christ”
Chalice 655, NC 314, W&R 615
See lyrics and music HERE
Or
“If We Are the Body” SongSelect #4196589

Time for Children

A Contemporary Word

"There is no power for change greater than a community
discovering what it cares about."
–– Margaret J. Wheatley

"In every community, there is work to be done. In every nation, there are wounds to heal.
In every heart, there is the power to do it.
– Marianne Williamson

"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured
by the compassionate actions of its members."
– Coretta Scott King

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.”
– Helen Keller

"I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live,
it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die,
for the harder I work the more I live."
– George Bernard Shaw

“I alone cannot change the world,
but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”
– Mother Teresa

Musical Proclamation
“The Healing of the Nations”
Listen and order HERE
[or see the Music Document in your downloads for other anthem suggestions]

An Ancient Word
Matthew 8:5-13

When he entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, appealing to him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, in terrible distress.” And he said to him, “I will come and cure him.” The centurion answered, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only speak the word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and the slave does it.” When Jesus heard him, he was amazed and said to those who followed him, “Truly I tell you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. I tell you, many will come from east and west and will eat with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the heirs of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” And to the centurion Jesus said, “Go; let it be done for you according to your faith.” And the servant was healed in that hour.

Sermon

In our worship series, we are using sea (beach) glass as an image of our brokenness, but also of the beauty that arises from that brokenness. How many have gone to the beach and collected these gems, taking them home to display their beauty and variety? As you look at the glass, think about our community, of those broken by the economic impact of the COVID pandemic who struggle to make ends meet, who wonder if they will be able to find a job that will pay the bills. Think of those who have lost their homes because they could not pay the mortgage, of the ones who are ‘long haulers,’ and may not be able to work again or who may have to change careers due to long term effects of the virus.

We, here in Vermont, have been blessed to have far fewer cases of the virus than other states, but people in our community have still been impacted by the changes in the economy and the emotional toll the need for social distancing has caused. Before the pandemic, we had homeless people living along the river in the summer and continue to have people seeking the resources of the Food Shelf in order to feed themselves and their families. Thanks to some of those in our local farming community, many have access to free vegetables on a regular basis, but, as the pandemic begins to wind down (we still have a long road ahead, but there is hope on the horizon with the vaccines becoming available,) the need is not going to go away immediately and a certain level of need will always be present in our community, our state, our country and the world.

As Christians, one of the things we need to do is to see and acknowledge the value of those who are struggling whether it is from issues of economics, race, gender identity or the myriad of issues in our world today. So often those who are struggling go unseen as people walk by on the street, unrecognized as people of value, and uncared for by others. People who are not of a Caucasian, western European heritage often struggle more than those that are white in our society. People whose skin tones are brown or black, or whose facial features identify them as racially and/or ethnically different from their white neighbors, often have a more difficult time in the climb out of economic hardship as they suffer racial discrimination in wages and in job and educational opportunities. Through out the pandemic, we have seen in the news how they have less access to healthcare than their white counterparts and even when they try to access healthcare, they may receive a lesser quality of care.

As we encounter the centurion, we see a man of authority willing to seek help for a lowly servant. This powerful individual, part of the Roman occupying force in Capernaum, Jerusalem, and the surrounding region, appears to be a bit atypical of what we would expect of such an individual. A commander of about 100 troops, he would be similar to the commander of a company, battery or troop in the US Army or Marine Corps. He would have been in a position of authority, but also have been subordinate to someone and would not have wished to appear ‘weak’ to either group as it could have undermined his authority. Yet, he doesn’t send a servant to approach Jesus for the paralyzed servant, he goes himself. A person of power seeking to aid one with no power, not even the power to seek aid on his own.

The centurion is different in another way, he states the issue, but does not demand that Jesus heal the man, in fact he doesn’t even demand that Jesus go to see the servant. This powerful man, rather than using that power, humbles himself as he addresses Jesus as Lord, a title given a superior, and shows both humility and sensitivity to Jesus’ Jewishness as he says, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only speak the word, and my servant will be healed.”? (Matt 8:8a)

How do we go about our attempts at helping others? What is our attitude when we approach Jesus to ask help? Do we demand Jesus’ help or are we truly humble and recognize our own unworthiness?

I’m pretty sure we have some former Roman Catholics in the congregation. The words of the centurion might sound familiar as a part of the Eucharistic liturgy echoes the words of the centurion, “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul will be healed.” (Henry G. Brinton, “Feasting on the Gospels: Matthew Vol. 1)

We are reminded that none of us is truly worthy to approach the table, yet Jesus invites us all anyway, for when we come, in humility willing to share our personal brokenness with Jesus, he is there, waiting to heal us.

When we are seeking to aid others, there is a need for a balancing act between humility and standing up for the rights of ourselves and others. We must speak with assurance and strength as we advocate for the rights of others, but we should do so with humility as well. When we come across with arrogance and pride, we do little to further God’s kin-dom on earth, but when we, like the centurion advocate for the least and the lost with humility, God is able to work miracles.

Do you know someone who is broken today? What might you do to assist them, to advocate for them, so that they may be healed? Are you one of the broken ones? If so, let’s talk, let’s try to find the path that will start you on the road to wholeness once more. Amen.

Song of Preparation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” (refrain only)
URW 160; SongSelect #3315976
https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/make-us-holy-make-us-whole-digital-sheet-music/20343748

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Prayers of the People

Leader: Healer of our every ill,
especially our malady of separation and fear,
we come before you to make our petitions known.
Hear our cries for healing of body, mind, and spirit.
We know that already you are at work among us,
showing us the way to recovery from the toxicities and grief of our time.

As broken pieces scattered and separated,
we trust that you are seeking us, gathering us into wholeness,
and calling us to join you in the quest.
We pray especially for those who have experienced
the loss of livelihoods and economic security
and are feeling helpless to care for their families.
We pray for those whose businesses have gone under
or are on the precipice between survival or closure.
We pray for those whose disparity of resources
has been made even more pronounced during this pandemic.
We pray grateful thanks for the efforts of all who have been searching for solutions
and have given generously for months of their time and resources
to alleviate the suffering of those they know and do not know.
We ask for encouragement and passion to re-evaluate
how we as a church can help now and into the future.

We pray this day for . . .

Celebrations: L: Alleluia? Petitions: L: Lord, in Your mercy,
                        P: Alleluia!    P: Hear our prayer!

Prayers from last week:
   Joys:
       Pauline Bombard (Jean’s Mom) – hip replacement Monday went well, now in rehab
       Baby K – Recovering from surgery, home and doing well
       Sue saw a cardinal in the yard
           Friend at Grafton County Rehab sent letter of how many things are beginning to happen
       Connie had a good conversation with Vera Merritt
       Pat received 2nd COVID vaccine Friday
   Concerns:
       Jennie (Jean’s sister-in-law) – is in the hospital, cancer diagnosed and starting Chemo
       Nick Smith – awaiting results of biopsies
       Family of Mike Woodard (died while snowshoeing)
       Beth Kimball
       Catherine

Prayer of Jesus

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Ritual Action for the Week

Leader: The words of Jesus we heard in this week’s healing story were “I will come…” When faced with a request, Jesus makes a move to seek out, to come to help one who was previously seen to be outside of help’s embrace. He moves outward to gather in and heal someone unlikely to have crossed his path otherwise. All are within God’s circle of Safe Keeping.

I invite you to take all your pieces of broken glass and put them in a bowl.
As you do so, think about the people you have encountered or heard about in the last few months who are suffering lack of support. What could we do to reach out and to focus on healing of the parts of the human community we don’t spend time thinking about enough?
To what part of our community shall we say “I will come…” ?

Then shift your thinking to your need to be cared for. What do you need to feel safe? What connections do you need to strengthen to heal any isolation you may feel? If you are in need of something, consider this an invitation to let someone know what you need without feeling embarrassment or shame about it. Jesus invites us, always, to ask.

Take a moment to think on this and then when you are ready, pick up the container of broken pieces and breathe (“spirare”) deeply, inviting that Spirit to live and move in you in a special way to strengthen your connection to others and your role in making someone’s life more safe. Keep the bowl in a place you can see regularly this week… perhaps on your dining table.

Closing Song
“The Voice of God is Calling”
Chalice 666, UMH 436, See lyrics and music HERE
Or
“I Will Follow” SongSelect #5806878

Commission

Leader: Jesus’ healing actions often get “buzz” from onlookers. In this week’s story we do not know how his followers reacted to his words, but we can assume that it was hard to hear for some. Jesus makes sure to point out that the belief of this “outsider” and his care for his servant was something he didn’t always see from the “insiders”–from the ones who profess to be “faithful.” His words no doubt affirmed some and offended others. That’s what happens when we get “called out,” as we say. Perhaps we are in need of being “called out.” Not in a way that shames but in a way that energizes. How could our faith call us out more and more until we cannot stand by as some are suffering?

As I said last week, we are working on healing for ourselves in this season, but we are also working toward something communal. How can we as a church community become a “health hub” through our ministry and mission? The needs are so great, especially now. Throughout this time, I invite you to explore with us the possibilities for a new or renewed commitment to a contribution we can make at Grace United Methodist Church to our larger community’s effort to recover from this past year. Perhaps a donation for UMCOR for disaster relief, as we think of the devastation not only in Texas from the severe cold, but through out our country due to cold, floods, storms and fires. Think of your favorite ministry through the church, whether the Youth Group, the Food Shelf, or something else. Make your check out to the church and include on the message line if there is a special ministry to which you wish it to go or write a message in the message box on PayPal when you donate on-line.

Monetary gifts to support the mission and ministries or Grace UMC may be sent through the Church’s website: BradfordUMC.org or by check to: Grace UMC, PO Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033.  Thank you for your generosity.

Blessing

Now go with confidence
that the Holy Beachcomber is gathering us all for “Safe Keeping,”
recovering our depth of love for all
and our joy of living in this world.

May the words of Jesus ring in your ears:
“I will come.”

And may the Spirit hover, move, and deliver
salve to your soul
and a spring in your step.

Threshold Into the World
[reprise of theme song]

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Postlude

“Holy Vessels” worship series copyright Marcia McFee and the Worship Design Studio, https://worship-design-studio.mn.co, All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Threshold Music: “Vessels, Holy and Whole” Words: Marcia McFee, Music: Chuck Bell, All rights reserved, Used by permission

Song of Preparation: “Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” – Refrain only Words and Tune: Mark Friedman, ©1998 The Lorenz Corporation, All rights reserved, Used by permission

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap, Toothpaste & Toothbrushes (individually packaged, please)

Bible Study – the book of Acts – Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m.
Coffee with the pastor Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.

Threshold

Leader: Each of us is created a precious and holy vessel of embodied love. We have been through a harrowing time since last Lent that has shattered our sense of wholeness–body, mind, and spirit–like a glass vessel fractured into pieces. Let us enter a Lenten “season of recovery” as we focus on Jesus, the Healer of our every ill.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Leader: Beach glass begins as something whole and yet discarded. As it is tumbled by the sea, it is broken and polished until it becomes a treasured “mineral gem.” We do not embrace that suffering is necessary or God-given, but that suffering is a part of life. When pain comes and brokenness enters our lives, Jesus reaches out to touch and remind us of the Treasure that we all are–worthy of new life in the midst of hopelessness. In a year when pandemic has wreaked havoc on our world, we begin by affirming our journey to physical health.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Prayer for Peace                                        Pastor Kelly Harvell
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Let us seek to simplify this moment, slow down for a time. Let us worship, leaning on prayer, reflection and sharing with one another.

Opening Prayer of Confession

Leader: Lent developed into a season of intense inward reflection and confession centuries after the life of Jesus. Yet, as we will see, Jesus encouraged people to open up about their lives–to speak truth–no matter how broken. This is the beginning of compassion for ourselves and others. It is the beginning of healing. The Latin origins of the word “confess” is to “study and acknowledge.” This will be a season of studying how we can be a healing presence in our community. To do this, we acknowledge our need to restore our own Holy Vessels.
Let us pray:

Creator God,
We are bodies fashioned by your hand in your own image,
shapes and colors of diverse and immense beauty.
And yet too often we have ignored the sacred nature of our physical lives.
The Holy Vessels you have fashioned are tired and suffering,
ravaged by months of disrupted rhythms and ailment.
Our fragility has come into full view and we are frightened.
We cannot fathom the proportions of loss and so we look away,
sometimes even from our own needs.

Help us, Healer.
Show us our strength.
Forgive our inertia.
Move us to move
one step at a time toward greater care.

In this silence, we sense and acknowledge our yearning for wholeness.

Silence

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Assurance

I invite you to feel a warmth begin to arise within the core of your body. It may help to keep your eyes closed. Imagine a warm orb of light deep within you. This warm glow begins to emerge from the recesses of your inner being to fill and flood your whole body until your skin is glowing with it, radiating outward. You are surrounded by light. Feel this warmth wrap you as a blanket of assurance.

Know this: God’s love and grace surround you…
No. Matter. What.
You are a precious and holy vessel right now.
Christ’s light is a treasure given freely.
For you, for me, for all.

Take a deep breath in to let this truth fill you…
and breathe out with the relief of assurance.

Peace
I invite you to imagine the warmth that surrounds you extending to those who may be next to you in close proximity. Imagine it extending beyond your walls to
the neighborhood…
the wider community…
the church…
and seeing it spread like the rising sun, let it expand to all the world.
Let this be our peace. Amen.

If you have not already, I invite you to open your eyes.

The peace of Christ is with you.
And also with you.

Opening Hymn
“Healer of Our Every Ill”
GTG 795, Chalice 506, FWS/STF 2213, VU 619, WOV 738
[consider gender-expansive language for verse 3, adapting “every sister, every brother” to “every sibling, sister, brother”]
Or
“Healer” SongSelect #4873981
Time for Children

A Contemporary Word

Bad things do happen; how I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life. I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness, immobilized by the gravity of my loss, or I can choose to rise from the pain and treasure the most precious gift I have - life itself.
–– Walter Anderson
Some people spend so much time hunting treasure that they fail to see it all around them. It's like sifting through gold to find the silt.
–– Richard Paul Evans

Where there is ruin, there is hope for a treasure.
–– Rumi

Musical Proclamation
“Sacred the Body”
GTG 27, FWS/STF 2228.

An Ancient Word
Matthew 8: 1-4; 16-17

When Jesus had come down from the mountain, great crowds followed him; and there was a leper who came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you choose, you can make me clean.” He stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I do choose. Be made clean!” Immediately his leprosy was cleansed. Then Jesus said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”

That evening they brought to him many who were possessed with demons; and he cast out the spirits with a word, and cured all who were sick. This was to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah, “He took our infirmities and bore our diseases.”

Sermon

First a bit of trivia – Leprosy, also known as “Hansen’s Disease,” is caused by a mycobacterium and can be treated today. It requires prolonged contact with an individual with the disease for it to be transmitted from one person to the other. Armadillos can also be affected by this disease.

What we call leprosy today is not necessarily the same as Leprosy during Jesus’ time. Diseases of the skin caused an individual to be considered ritually unclean. Such infection resulted in a person needing to live in isolation for various periods of time until the skin became clear again. Sometimes it was a case of psoriasis, or other, similar, non-infectious skin condition, sometimes it was a more devastating condition that led to deformity. No matter what the condition, it still led to the person being ostracized and separated from friends and family at least for a period of time.

The individual Jesus encountered would have been shunned by society, suffered humiliation and exile from community. In healing the leper, Jesus returned the man to community, to a life of productivity and acceptance.

While the pandemic is an easy issue to draw parallels to with its associated isolation for protection of ourselves and others, it is not the only “ill” in our society that results in loss of community. Many people are suffering from loss of community, loss of relationships of the past due to many other situations. What are some you can think of, from which you may suffer?

God created humanity in God’s own image and said that it was good. Through the years, the centuries, the millennia, that image has become severely tarnished.

Did you pay attention to the text of the hymn we sang just before the reading of the Gospel? “Sacred the body God has created,…” How often do we fail to think about the sacredness of God’s creation when we think about our bodies or the bodies of others?

A bit of history behind this particular piece of music. Dr Ruth Duck and Dr Janet Walton were conversing about the existence or lack there of, of hymns “that spoke to issues of battering and abuse using Paul’s concept of the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16-17).” (History of Hymns: “Sacred the Body” UMCDiscipleship.org). A group of seminary students was planning a worship service and were looking for a song. Dr Duck wrote this piece when nothing was found. Dr. Duck states, “I didn’t know of existing hymn texts on that theme, but the idea inspired 'Sacred the Body.' Writing the text was a source of healing for my distress over a friend’s story of being sexually abused by a religious professional.” (History of Hymns: “Sacred the Body” UMCDiscipleship.org).

Women, children and even men have become victims of spouses, partners, parents, and others in positions of power. Elders in our society are not as respected as they once were suffering physical and financial abuse from the children they raised or from others. So much of this abuse stays hidden, hidden deep inside the victim’s psyche because to share the abuse with anyone might lead to further abuse, as the abuser blames the victim for all that is going wrong or disbelief on the part of the hearer and, eventually, loss of the few “good” relationships the abused individual has.

When we think of our bodies as temples that God’s Spirit indwells, do you think we should probably care for them and honor them, as holy space?

What might that look like?

During the pandemic many of us have complained about not being able to go about our “normal” daily lives, about not being able to visit friends and family, but what about those who live in abusive households, what has been their plight?

We have heard that suicide and drug overdose rates have increased during the pandemic, some due to isolation, some due to loss of ability to provide for family as a result of job loss and inability to get a new job. There is a strong suspicion that abuse rates are also increased, domestic violence resulting from prolonged periods of forced increased proximity between abused and abuser. Teachers are struggling to watch for signs of abuse when they are unable to ask questions of children in on-line classrooms and, it is feared, children are suffering more due to the lack of ability to identify the situations that would have been more readily caught in an in-person learning environment.

As we look at pieces of sea (beach) glass, we see how the broken edges have become smoothed, how the surfaces have been polished by the action of wave and sand. There is beauty despite the realization of the littering that placed the original in the ocean to begin with. The bodies and spirits, damaged by abuse, are still beautiful, still temples for God’s Spirit, but just as we have removed the glass from the reach of wind and wave in order to see and appreciate the beauty, so too must those who have been damaged by the actions of others, be removed from these places of abuse, that we may better see their beauty and appreciate their value.

Verse 3 of Ruth Duck’s “Sacred the Body,” reminds us of what it means to love, while listing some of the actions of an abuser:

       Love respects persons, bodies and boundaries.
       Love does not batter, neglect, or abuse.
       Love touches gently, never coercing.
       Love leaves the other with power to choose.

There are many stories in this congregation I don’t know, but from past history with other congregations, I can be sure that some of you have lived in abusive situations at some point in your life, if not right now. Know that it is not your fault. Know that you are loved. Know that God works through people to help you to leave an abusive situation and that, once out of the situation, you will find support to continue on, if from no one else, then from me.

Healing from our hidden traumas of abuse, of neglect, of the damage we do to self and to others, healing from the broken places in our lives that leads us into isolation, self-loathing, and fear can happen, but first, we need to have our load lightened, we need to expose our pain, our brokenness to One whose light will guide our way. Wednesday night we heard these words from Jesus:

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11: 28-30)

Today, from the 8th chapter of Matthew, we hear:
“Lord, if you choose, you can make me clean.” He stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I do choose. Be made clean!”

We need the faith of the leper for our healing, to mend the brokenness from which we suffer. We must open ourselves, trusting in the healing power of Jesus, that the bits and pieces of our lives can be put together. I do not promise that all our trials and troubles will be behind us, for Jesus promised that the road would be difficult, but, when a load is carried by two rather than one, it is lessened.

We do not know what wholeness really looks like for a particular individual, just like we don’t know exactly what the bottle looks like from which any individual shard of sea (beach) glass comes, but we trust and believe that God knows, that the healing that comes from Jesus is what we need to be made whole.

As we move into our time of prayer, think of those areas in your life that may need healing, whether it is from memories of abuse, from traumas brought on by war or other intense situations or from other areas. Let us offer all our brokenness to God, that all our hurts may be soothed and our brokenness be made whole.

There are many things that can result in both real and virtual isolation; the child or adult who seems to be going about a normal life, but when home is the object of abusive language or actions, and may not be allowed to speak to anyone outside the house; the soldier/sailor/marine home from deployment with no visible injury, but who has not had a night of quiet sleep in years due to the nightmares that wake them every time they let their guard down; the individual wracked with depression or fear, that rarely steps out of the house.

The list goes on and on about the effects of trauma on people, the effects of which can cause those individuals to withdraw from participating in the normal activities of life. There is so much hidden disease in this and most countries, diseases

It is easy for me to think of the many soldiers, having deployed to serve the demands of their nation, who then return home with both visible and invisible injuries. They so want to go back to what it was like before they deployed, before they truly understood the horrors of war, before they encountered the shelling, the minefields, the grenades; before they learned to always be on high alert because the enemy could be anyone, attack anytime. They want to go back to a time before the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) or the Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VB-IED) took their arm, their leg, their hearing, their decisiveness lost due to traumatic brain injury.

Some of these will overcome their trauma in some ways, but they will always be different and people they thought they could count on may leave them, avoid them, struggle to look them in the eye. Others will always struggle just to accept themselves while also struggling with how others treat them.

Many even feel unloved by even God. Why would a loving God allow this to happen to them….?

This is what the leper was experiencing, an illness that took away not only community, but feelings of self-worth that are tied up with wholeness of body, feelings that even God could no longer love him, because he was unclean.

Then, the leper encountered Jesus. He asked, and Jesus returned him to health in body and in relation to the community, healing his feelings of self-loathing and lack of worth.

Song of Preparation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” (refrain only)
URW 160; SongSelect #3315976
https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/make-us-holy-make-us-whole-digital-sheet-music/20343748

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Prayers of the People

Leader: Healer of our every ill,
especially our malady of separation and fear,
we come before you to make our petitions known.
Hear our cries for healing of body, mind, and spirit.
We know that already you are at work among us,
showing us the way to recovery from the toxicities and grief of our time.

As demolished pieces that are treasured when found,
we trust that beauty from brokenness is possible
when we seek to bind together that which is wounded.
We pray especially for those who have experienced
the physical loss of family and friends in the pandemic
and those who are still suffering the consequences of the illness.
We pray for each person who suffers in body in other ways–
weariness from inactivity or weariness from overactivity in this time.
We pray for those whose treatment of maladies have been put on hold and those who suffered isolation in their illness, whatever the cause.
We pray grateful thanks for the medical staff everywhere around the world who have shown unbelievable strength and stamina
and we mourn the demise of too many caregivers
who risked their lives for our sake.

We pray this day for . . .

Celebrations: L: Alleluia? Petitions: L: Lord, in Your mercy,
                        P: Alleluia!    P: Hear our prayer!

Prayers from last week:
   Joys:

Handing out valentines
Congratulations to Linda Duxbury & Hank Buereyer on their marriage
Thanksgiving for those who have had or are scheduled for their COVID vaccines
Susan (Sue's sister-in-law) has completed 1 year of health since end of chemo
Baby K scheduled for his surgery Friday

Concerns:

Baby K and those performing his surgery Friday
The family whose garage burned last week
Our Country
The broken ones who are unnamed
Jonathan having brain surgery at DHMC
Nick
Emily (12yo) thrown from a horse with serious injuries
All who have no electricity due to storms and other issues

Prayer of Jesus

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Ritual Action for the Week

Leader: The words of Jesus we heard in this week’s healing story were “I do choose. Be made clean!” Faced with a request, and given the choice, Jesus chooses to say “yes.” And he says “yes” to each precious and treasured life. Recovered wholeness is offered to everyone and will look different for each one. I invite you to take up a piece of beach glass now and examine it closely, noticing the worn edges and the color, feeling the texture and thickness. Examine it as a treasure that is completely unique, which of course it is.

Then shift your thinking to your own rough edges. What broken edges in your own life need help? What will you do in this Lent season to focus on healing of body, mind, and spirit?

Take a moment to think on this and then when you are ready, enclose the broken piece in your hand and hold it to your heart, breathing (“spirare”) deeply and inviting that Spirit to live and move in you in a special way over the next six weeks. Keep your piece close at hand… perhaps on your desk, nightstand, or pocket where you can feel it regularly this week.

Closing Song
“Jesus, Savior, Lord, Now to You I Come (Saranam, saranam)”
GTG 789, UMH 523
Or
“Build My Life” SongSelect #7070345

Commission

Leader: Jesus’ healing actions often get “buzz” from onlookers. Some are amazed and in awe and sing praises. Some are bewildered and wonder at this teacher. Some are disgruntled and feel threatened by the boundaries he breaks and the change he invites. We are perhaps prone to all of these at one time or another. Our own work of recovery will sometimes feel immediately refreshing and sometimes it will demand uncomfortable effort. But the rewards are great.

We are also working toward something communal in this season. How can we as a church community become a “health hub” through our ministry and mission? The needs are so great, especially now. Throughout this time, I invite you to explore with us the possibilities for a new or renewed commitment to a contribution we can make at Grace United Methodist Church to our larger community’s effort to recover from this past year.

Monetary gifts to support the mission and ministries or Grace UMC may be sent through the Church’s website: BradfordUMC.org or by check to: Grace UMC, PO Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033. Thank you for your generosity.

Blessing

Now go with confidence
as “Treasures of God,”
recovering your depth of love for all
and our joy of living in this world.

May the words of Jesus ring in your ears:
“I do choose you.”

And may the Spirit hover, move, and deliver
salve to your soul
and a spring in your step.
Amen.

Threshold Into the World
[reprise of theme song]

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Postlude

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap

Grace United Methodist Church
P. O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033
Church phone #: (802) 222-9062, Parsonage phone #: (802) 222-5247
Secretary’s email address: gracesecybradford@gmail.com
Pastor’s email address: bradfordumcpastor@gmail.com
Find us on Facebook: Grace UMC

Finance Moment: An update on our finances.
Yearly Church Budget: $79,839.00
Needed Weekly: $1,535.27
February's Collection to Date: $2,205

Offerings may be mailed to GUMC, P.O. Box 726, Bradford, VT 05033 or go to bradfordumc.org, click on “More” in the pull-down menu and click on “Donate”. Follow the instructions.

LEADERSHIP
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, New England Conference
District Superintendent: Rev Jill Colley Robinson
Pastor: Ami Sawtelle
Organist: Connie Linnell
Minister: All the People

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

February 17, 2021—Ash Wednesday Service                       Pastor Ami Sawtelle

Ash Wednesday

Prelude

Welcome and Announcements

Threshold

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Leader: Ash Wednesday is a time of naming brokenness. As we enter the season of Lent, we commit to enter also into a season of healing and recovery that requires the naming of what has been shattered as a first step. We take “the yoke” of responsibility as disciples of Jesus to be the Body of Christ–a body of those who need healing and offer healing in the world. The promise of Jesus is that he is with us in our weariness and burdens.

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Prayer of Confession

Leader: We will be living with stories of Jesus’ healing in the Gospel of Matthew in this Lent season. We will see how Jesus encouraged people to open up about their lives as part of the healing process–no matter how broken. Ash Wednesday developed as a doorway to speaking the truth of our lives, a time to lay the brokenness of life before God.
Let us pray:
Merciful God,
we have lived a year of Lent.
In the midst of it all we have seen love shine through at times
but as we look back in this moment,
it feels like a year of shattered dreams and shattered peace.
We are discouraged. Even though so much feels out of our control,
we also see the ways our own faults and failures
to love each other fully, to care for the least, to honor your creation,
to stand for what is right and good, have contributed to the shattering.

And so we come to you in pieces.
Fragments, broken shells of our past selves.
As we walk along the shores of Uncertainty and Pain,
we ask that you meet us here.

Help us, Healer.
Show us our strength.
Forgive our inertia.
Move us to move
one step at a time toward greater care.

In this silence, we sense and acknowledge our yearning for wholeness.

Silence

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Assurance

Throughout the season of Lent, we will be contemplating the symbol of broken glass–sea (or beach) glass to be specific. An unknown author has said this about the glass fragments that are collected on various shores:

“Ordinary pieces of tableware or beer or soda bottles are flung into the ocean. Years pass, or decades, and then one day, there it is upon the shore: a small shard from one of those long-ago discarded objects. Shifting currents have rounded its edges; abrasion has polished its surface; exposure to the sun has altered its hue. And so, when we happen upon it, here amidst the shells and seaweed, we can’t help but laugh with joy at what seems a miracle: this ordinary fragment of silica that time and adversity have transformed into something beautiful.”

Time and adversity… making something beautiful out of that which, once seen as ordinary and broken, is now considered a transformed and precious piece. This is the journey we undertake.
Jesus attended to those considered ordinary, broken, even those deemed unworthy. No matter what, Jesus is the lover of our souls.

In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.
In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.
Glory to God. Amen.

Opening Hymn
“Jesus, Lover of My Soul”                       UMH 479

Peace
In this moment, we begin to “let the healing streams abound.”
The peace of Christ is with you.
And also with you.

A Contemporary Word

What if the deeper you know our own brokenness,
the deeper you can experience your own belovedness?
–– Anne Voskamp
Our life is full of brokenness–broken relationships, broken promises, broken expectations. How can we live with that brokenness without becoming bitter and resentful except by returning again and again to God’s faithful presence in our lives.
–– Henri Nouwen

Musical Proclamation
“God Weeps”       FWS 2048.    Listen HERE (Strathdee tune)

An Ancient Word
Matthew 11: 28-30

Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Sermon

Have you ever walked into a doctor’s office, been greeted by the receptionist who, asking no questions, immediately escorts you to the doctor’s examining room where, after a very brief wait, you are greeted by the doctor with, “Good morning Mr./Mrs./Ms. _______________, so good to see you this morning; this is what is wrong with you and this is how we are going to fix it.”?

If this has ever happened to you, when there have been no questions asked, no tests done, then I want to meet this doctor for she has some special talents.

I’m a veterinarian, when a client enters the room with her/his pet or I go out to a farm to see livestock, I always need to ask questions, usually need to do a physical exam and may need to run some tests in order to diagnose the illness/problem. We have many problems in our lives, many broken places, some that a physician needs to deal with, but many that are deeper rooted than that and need the Great Physician, the Great Healer, Jesus.

Lent is often seen as a time of penitence, a time of turning around and trying to do things differently, of doing things better. We don’t always look at it as a time of healing, yet that is what we need; we need to be healed, our brokenness mended, that we might have our relationship with God healed also.

In today’s reading from Matthew, we are invited to take up Jesus’ yoke, a yoke that is to be easy and whose burden is light.

When two animals are yoked together for heavy work, it is preferable to have animals of similar size and strength, so the load is carried equally between the two. When one is taller/larger or pulls harder than the other, that one takes on more of the load, often tiring more quickly. When a new ox is being trained to pull, it is paired with an older better trained ox that knows that trying to go too fast only tires one out, that holds the younger ox back, teaching it to pull steadily and in tandem, rather than trying to run ahead and do the work on its own.

When we are yoked with Jesus, our load is lightened, for Jesus is stronger than we and takes on a larger part of our burden, lifting the weight from us so we don’t tire so easily.

Our journey through Lent this year is meant to be a journey toward healing. We will focus on different areas where healing may be needed, for as I said earlier, physical healing is only a small part of the story. For those of you who were a part of Pastor Kelly Harvell’s service while I was on vacation, you heard her speak about Helen Keller and the “healing” that took place in her.

Before we can begin to be healed though, we must first assess our illness, our brokenness, answer questions as to what our symptoms are, the places where we hurt, where we think we may be broken. We then must be faithful in carrying our share of the load, of doing our exercises,’ ‘taking our medicine,’ so we can be healed.

This time of pandemic, of social distancing, of quarantine and for many fear, this time of social unrest and political divide, have brought to the surface feelings of poor self-worth, of hopelessness and despair. When we need broken areas in our lives to be healed, just as when the break in a bone needs exposure, so we need to expose those areas to the light, in this case, to the Light that came into the world in a stable long ago, for in allowing Jesus to see our brokenness, in admitting to Jesus we can no longer carry our burdens alone, we begin the path of healing.

In a little bit we will participate in a ritual to start us on our path to healing, but before we do so, let us take a time of silence to reflect upon our brokenness, upon the places where we need to ask Jesus to help carry the load, the places where healing is needed that we might live with hope and integrity.

Song of Preparation
“Make Us Holy, Make Us Whole” (refrain only)

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Prayers of the People

Leader: Lover of our souls,
You who weeps, bleeds, cries, waits…
for us and because of us,
we come before you to make our petitions known.
Hear our cries for healing of body, mind, and spirit.
We know that already you are at work among us,
showing us the way to recovery from the toxicities and grief of our time.

We pray for those who are shattered by the violence of circumstances,
tumbled by the forces of life,
and washed up on shores, distant from all that feels whole.

We pray this day for…

Celebrating God Sightings and Sharing Concerns

Pastoral Prayer (ending with the Lord's Prayer)

Prayer of Jesus

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.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

[Reprise of the prayer song:]

In your love, make us whole.
May we rest in your compassion.
Calm the lost, weary soul
in the warmth of your love.
May your peace fill our hearts.
May we know the love of Jesus.
By your grace, you console.
Make us holy, make us whole.

Ritual Action

Leader: Ash Wednesday, as the beginning of Lent, developed in the 5th - 6th centuries, and was mandated in the 11th century. Although Protestants did not maintain this ritual for the most part, it has come back during the 20th century liturgical movement as an important time for reflection in which we reclaimed this symbol and ritual of our spiritual ancestors. It plays an important role in helping us make meaning in the brokenness of our lives. This year, indeed, we are aware of the fragility of life. Even though we cannot share ashes in the ways we have become accustomed, let us engage in a ritual that draws us close to the elements of creation–earth, fire, air, and water. Let it remind us that we are a part of creation, in all its beauty and its brokenness.

EARTH - The sand upon which our symbol of beach glass washes is, interestingly, the origins of glass-making. Glass is liquified, heated sand. In a way, the shards of beach glass are the epitome of “dust to dust”… or in this case, “sand to liquified sand.” To take it back even further, sand is created by the erosion of mountains and rocks over thousands or millions of years. So whether what you have on hand today is dirt or sand, we are witnessing the brokenness and erosion and weathering of the earth itself. All things become broken. All things transform. And every form we take is holy, whole, and beautiful. I invite you to touch the sand or dirt you have with you in this moment. Feel its grains, it’s decomposed nature, as we pray:

Holy Creator God… as we feel this elemental part of who we are, we remember that we ourselves were made from the dust of the earth. To experience brokenness is the way of creation, it is not something to be ashamed of… it is the order of things. Transform us, O God. Help us recover the beauty of who we are and see the goodness in transformation.

FIRE - Glass can only be created when the sand is met with the heat of fire. No wonder the scriptures and poets throughout the ages have spoken of a “refining fire.” The heat of fire is always destructive, but with intention and care and tending, what transpires from the destruction of fire can be a new form with purposes that are good, useful, and beautiful. I invite you to light your candle, if it is not already lit. Gaze upon the colors of the flame which may be white or gold or red or blue, as we pray:

Holy Refining Fire of the Spirit… as we feel this elemental part of who we are, we remember that you invite us to fuel the flames of passionate love for you and for each other. Do not allow the flame of our spirits to lie dormant. Offer us your light and life. Transform us, O God. Help us recover the beauty of who we are and see the goodness in transformation.

AIR - The scriptures depict the creation of human beings as having Holy Breath blown to animate our being. Glass vessels gained a new technique around the time of Jesus. In the first century BCE, glass blowing was invented, offering a way for molten glass to be shaped by blowing through a tube, creating an air bubble, a glass vessel, ready to for practical or artistic purposes. Breath is part of the creation of our Holy Vessels. Breath is with us in our very first cry and will be the final song as we exit this realm. I invite you to close your eyes, if this is comfortable for you, and become aware of your breath as we pray:

Holy Giver of Breath and Life… as we feel this elemental part of who we are, we remember that this ongoing, life-giving, usually-automatic, moment-to-moment function can be an act of gratitude for our very origins. And this is the core of our relationship with the creation–sharing and existing within this atmosphere. Just as our breath offers us opportunity to let go of that which we do not need in order to take in the fresh air we need, transform us, O God. Help us recover the beauty of who we are and see the goodness in transformation.

WATER - As the water meets the sand and earth at the shoreline, we also are invited to a journey of meeting the Living Water that Christ offers us. Ancient peoples made wet soil in many forms as healing balms. Skin moistened, blood flow increased to the area, muscles relaxed. This still is practiced today in many places. Our Lent series about healing, then, gives us an opportunity to use this as our Ash Wednesday ritual of anointing. I invite you to mix a little water with the dirt or sand that you have with you and create a wet mixture. Then place some in your palm–the same palm used in greeting other palms, signifying interdependent relationship. Gently rub it, making the sign of the cross, as we pray:

Healing Presence… as we feel this elemental part of who we are, we remember you created us, shaped us from dust in the palm of your hand.
Some day we will return to dust,
return to the palm of your hand once again, held and loved forever.
We lament in this moment the grittiness of life,
the need for healing, the difficult and necessary process of transformation.
Mark us as your own, remold us again and again as your people. Let the recognition of our own need break us open yet again for the sake of others, for the sake of the world.
All all the people say, “Amen.”

Closing Song
“Give to the Winds Thy Fears”            UMH 129

Blessing

Now go with confidence that,
though shattered, we are held.
Begin the journey of recovering your depth of love for all
and your joy of living in this world.

May the words of Jesus ring in your ears:
“I will give you rest.”

And may the Spirit hover, move, and deliver
salve to your soul
and a spring in your step.
Amen.

Threshold Into the World
[reprise of theme song]

Vessels, holy and whole
Broken, needing the One
Open, body and soul
Healer, come.

Postlude

“Worship series design and original music ©Worship Design Studio, used with permission. www.worshipdesignstudio.com/vessels

Food Shelf Items Needed

Easy to prepare foods for kids, Flour & Sugar, Coffee, Toilet Paper & Paper Towels, Laundry Detergent, Shampoo & Hand Soap

Bible Study – the book of Acts – Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m.
Coffee with the pastor Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.
Statistical Report Forms are in, Pastor Ami will be contacting individuals to fill their particular portion. She would like to complete the report as soon as reasonably possible. The final report to the conference is due in mid-February.

Gathering of Our Celebrations and Our Petitions
Because we want to try sharing our worship service on our website while maintaining privacy for those we would lift in prayer, we will gather our spoken joys and concerns at this time in the service, so that when Pastor Ami starts the service, she may also begin recording the service.

Celebrations: L: Alleluia? Petitions: L: Lord, in Your mercy,
                        P: Alleluia!    P: Hear our prayer!

Prayers from last week:
   Joys:


   Concerns:


Prayer for Peace                                        Pastor Kelly Harvell
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: so mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all people and nations may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one God, to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

Let us seek to simplify this moment, slow down for a time. Let us worship, leaning on prayer, reflection and sharing with one another.

Threshold
“God is Holding Your Life”

The Psalm that comes at the end of our series speaks of an active God whose light shines for all time and in all places. God is not silent, but calls the people to remember that they, too, can act on God’s behalf, holding all suffering peoples in hands of prayer and care and transforming the world that will shine bright into the future. May it be so. This last week we will sing all the verses of our theme song.

Lift up your eyes, behold the hills.
From where will help and rescue come?

Lift up your eyes, behold the hills.
From where will help and rescue come?
We call on One who made the earth,
Who bless’d the stars, the moon and sun.

God is holding your life
God is holding your life
God is holding your life, we believe
[repeat refrain]

Turn now your gaze upon the earth
Where is the One who never sleeps?
We call on One who guards you now,
Your spirit safe in holy keep.

God is holding your life
God is holding your life
God is holding your life, we believe
[repeat refrain]

Venturing out or coming home,
‘neath heat of day or cool of night,
we call on One who hears your voice
and comes to heal and keep your life.

God is holding your life
God is holding your life
God is holding your life, we believe
[repeat refrain]

Opening Collect Prayer

Leader: Holy One, Light of the World,
you help us to see and find our way in this time.
Open us this day to a vision of the world made all-right,
so that we might alight our own lives to show forth
your reign on earth as it is in heaven.
People: We praise you for your steadfast presence,
holding our lives together in love.
Amen.

Lift up your eyes, behold the hills.
From where will help and rescue come?
We call the One who made the earth,
Who bless’d the stars, the moon and sun.

God is holding your life
God is holding your life
God is holding your life, we believe
[repeat refrain]

Turn now your gaze upon the earth
Where is the One who never sleeps?
We call the One who guards you now,
Your spirit safe in holy keep.
God is holding your life
God is holding your life
God is holding your life, we believe
[repeat refrain]

Venturing out or coming home,
‘neath heat of day or cool of night,
we call the one who hears your voice
and comes to heal and keep your life.

God is holding your life
God is holding your life
God is holding your life, we believe
[repeat refrain]

Psalm Reading
Psalm 50:1-6

ADONAI our God speaks and summons the earth
from the rising of the sun to its setting.

Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty,
God shines forth.

ADONAI comes and won’t be silent:
a devouring fire goes before God,
while storms rage all around.

God summons heaven and earth
to the trial of God’s people:

“Gather to me my faithful ones,
who make their covenant with me
by sacrifice!”

The heavens affirm God’s justice
because it is God who is the judge!

——Selah—--

Psalm Song

Introduction from Richard and Song:
“The One is Shining Forth”

Reflections and Testimonies

The last several weeks, we have been singing God is holding your life, this we believe. So, do we really believe that God is holding not only our lives but the lives of others? Remember we are saying God is holding your life, not our life.

It’s Sunday once more, Transfiguration Sunday, the day we often talk about Jesus taking the inner circle of disciples, Peter, James and John, to the mountain where Jesus encounters another inner circle, Moses and Elijah, we speak of light and brightness and then we move on with our lives.

Our Psalm today reminds us that it is more than a time of talking about light and the transfiguration of Jesus, it is about the transformation of lives, our lives and the lives of those who are suffering.

It is Black History Month, a time we remember how poorly our country has treated people of black and brown skin, a time we celebrate the achievements of those who have, despite the prejudices of many, overcome barriers placed in their way and accomplished major achievements in sports, science, peaceful resistance and many other areas.

For the last several weeks we have sung, “God Is Holding Your Life,” echoing lines from Psalm 121, reminding us that it is upon God, and God alone, that we should trust and depend, that God has us, is holding us and protecting us.

And we are embroiled in multiple pandemics, for not only is the SARS-CoV2 virus still rampant in our country, with new variants rising that are more virulent, but there is an epidemic of unrest in our country and in many places in the world, people struggling for the freedom to speak without fear of retribution, power hungry leaders who would quell the resistance at all costs, people fearful of interactions with police in our own country because their skin is black or brown and so it seems that is all the excuse some need to make false claims against them or for the police to shoot them, while some people of white skin seem to be afraid of a loss of power and status because of those with darker skin making achievement in the world; children are starving in parts of the world, in parts of our own country, while in other areas of the world and our towns, food is regularly thrown into the trash because there is too much to eat before the food spoils.

The few short verses we read from Psalm 50 this morning tell us once more of the power of God, and reminds us that God is the one who will sit in judgement over all, that God’s judgement will be righteous. We are reminded of God’s bright shining power, similar to what was seen on the mountain when Jesus met with Moses and Elijah. Had we gone on with the rest of the Psalm the tone would have changed as God first tells Israel that while there is no complaint about the sacrifices they make, everything they sacrifice already belongs to God, that they should be giving thanks and fulfilling their vows, living out the covenant they have with God. Then God speaks out against those who may claim to follow God, but in reality, speak evil in the world. God speaks of punishment for those whose words bring slander and evil, while promising salvation to those who “go the right way.” (Ps 50:23)

As we reflect on the world around us and our own voices, how might the Psalmist be calling to us? How might we need to change or maybe “up” our game?

While we have sung of “God is holding your life,” how have we lived out our own trust in God’s grace and love? When we think about how God uses the hands of others to hold us in times of trouble and despair, how do we measure up? When we look at the world around us, at the political rhetoric in our own country as well as the leadership role our country plays in the world, how do we stack-up against God’s call to righteousness?

There are so many ways we live out God’s call to right living in the world, whether it is the various missions we support through paying 100% of our Mission Shares, or our giving to UMCOR and others who provide care in many parts of the world, we are putting our money to God’s purposes when, before we give, we are in conversation with God about what we are to do. When we speak with voices of integrity, guided by God’s Spirit in the political arena, rather than listening to voices that speak to our own desires for power and wealth, we speak to guide others into pathways of righteousness. When we pick up the phone and call someone who is isolated and lonely, when we offer to pick up groceries bring a meal to someone unable to get out and about we are putting feet to our words and living out God’s call to right living.

When we truly believe that God is holding our lives, when we understand that such belief comes with a need to walk in the pathways God puts before us, pathways that transform our lives and the lives of others, we actually begin to change, to become transformed. We speak of the Transfiguration, when Jesus appeared to the few present in splendor, in robes whiter than snow, but do we understand that we too will be changed, transformed into something different, something brighter and more conscious of what is going on around us when we step out of places of fear of reprisal and follow in the footsteps of Jesus; when we respond to God’s call on our lives?

When we step out of our places of fear of failure, trusting that God is holding us, is guiding us, then we have the power to be a part of the transformation of the world into a world that reflects the brightness of God into the darkest corners of evil, overcoming the evil and transforming the lives of others. Amen.

Testimonies of Being Held

This is an opportunity to let people share how they have felt the love and support of others, of God, in this time of pandemic. It can be considered as part of the “sermon time,” coming right out of the end of the preacher’s reflection. You may choose to ask one person to speak or you may make a collage of short statements from several people (solicit written or video testimonies to weave throughout the series)

Sung Reprise
“God is Holding Your Life”

God is holding your life
God is holding your life
God is holding your life, we believe
[repeat]

Bringing our Gifts Before God

Offering Prayer
(Sawtelle 2021)

“Selah” Moment

Let us have one more “Selah” moment together to end this series. However, we hope that you will continue to find and create these intentional pauses for yourself in your days, remembering to acknowledge the loving God who is holding your life. We will hear [the sound] and then have some silence. Feel free to close your eyes if you like. Imagine yourself held in safety and love and care. When you hear [the sound] again, open your eyes.

Silence

Prayers of the People

I invite you to write your prayer concerns on small pieces of paper. As we have done all along, we will place these prayers in a container [bowl, box, etc]–a symbolic action of placing them in God’s hands, God’s care.

I invite you to place your hands on