SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
May 24, 2020

Be glad and rejoice, for in our joy, we reveal God’s glory and Christ’s presence.

PRELUDE – “How Firm a Foundation” arr., J. Payne
~©2018 Lorenz Publishing Co.

CALL TO WORSHIP – Caelyn & Meghan Bunn
Rejoice and sing to God
We sing of the Risen Christ.
Clap your hands and shout for joy.
We rejoice in the living God.
Celebrate this day.
We celebrate with the Spirit who calls us here.

HYMN OF PRAISE – “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” arr., M. Patterson
Sanctuary Choir

A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing.
Our helper here amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe; his craft and power are great,
And armed with cruel hate, on earth there is no equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,
Were not the right One on our side, the One of God’s own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabbaoth, his name, from age to age the same, and he must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us.
We will not fear, for God has willed the truth to triumph through us.
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also; the body they may kill;
Yet truth abideth still; God’s kingdom is forever.

~Text and Tune by Martin Luther (PD)
Anthem ©2001 Chorister’s Guild

WELCOME TO WORSHIP – Rev. Aho

CHILDREN’S TIME – Rev. Robert Garrett

SCRIPTURE READING – Psalm 47:1-9 – Mr. Rob Hill

TIME OF REMEMBRANCE
On Memorial Day weekend, it is our tradition to remember the members of our church family that have died in the previous year. We take a moment this morning to offer prayers of thanks for these beloved saints, and prayers of comfort and peace to the families as they continue to grieve.

Mr. Bobby Blackwell
Mrs. Michelle Gray Campbell
Ms. Nancylee Currin
Mrs. Gene Jones Finch
Mrs. Rebie Hancock
Ms. Nan Shearin
Mr. Bob Wainwright

PASTORAL PRAYER – Rev. Aho
Holy God, we celebrate your presence on this day and give thanks for these saints and the lives they lived among us.
We pray for continued healing and strength for all who shared life with them.
We are grateful for the gift of your ongoing presence in our lives as we rejoice and worship today.
We seek your forgiveness and mercy, that we may glorify you in all that we say and do.
Holy God, pour out your Spirit on us, restoring, empowering, and strengthening us that we might serve you well in the days ahead.
Amen

MUSIC MEDITATION – “The Gift of Love” arr., J.M. Stevens
Sam Hampton, violin
©2016 James M. Stevens Music ASCAP

MESSAGE – “The Call to Act” – Rev. Aho
Acts 1:6-14

RESPONSE “Lord, Be Glorified” B. Kilpatrick
Donna Perkins, solo

In my life, Lord, be glorified today.
In Your church, Lord, be glorified today.

©1978 Prism Tree Music

OUR OFFERINGS
Taking an offering is an act of worship and a part of our service each week. It is important to remember that our offering not only supports the ministry of the church but is an expression of our thankfulness for all God has given us. We give today because God first gave to us.

BENEDICTION
Called to be one, we go forth in unity and love.
Called to be strong, we go forth in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Called in devotion to God, we go forth in ministry and witness to the world. Amen

POSTLUDE arr., D. Wagner
“Prelude in Classic Style”
©1966 Lorenz Publishing Co.