First UCC Richmond

On-Line Worship 06/21/2026

Order of Worship
Fourth Sunday of Pentecost
June 21, 2026

Prelude:  by Bob Gorniac

• #475 NCH God’s Eye is on The Sparrow

 Civilla D. Martin, @ 1905
Tune: Sparrow Irrigation.
Charles H. Gabriel, 1905

• What Is This Place #303 Breaking Bread

Komt Nu Zang
Text:  Huub  Oosterhuis
Dutch Hymn, 1626
Text & Music @1967 OCP

Offertory

First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond MI 48062
Rev. Katie Dailey, Pastor
If you prefer to send a check or are uncomfortable using Internet:  Please include an email. 

Gordon Foods/Kroger thank you for claiming First UCC as your non-profit

Thanksgiving for the Offering (Hebrews 13:16)
Do good and share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

#780 NCH Doxology (for melody) 

Praise life that makes us change and grow.
Praise love that makes compassion flow.
Praise peace that ends all strife and fear.
Praise hands that work for justice here. 

Text:  Thomas Ken, 1674
Book of Worship, UCC, Music: Louis Bourgeois, 1551

Prayer of dedication
Take our hearts, our hands, our gifts, Holy God. Mold us, shape us, send us, so that we might be your body in the world you so love. Amen.

Ringing of the Bell

Lighting of the candle

Welcome
Welcome to our community where differences are celebrated, kindness is valued, and friendships flourish. Everyone is welcome and that is true.  No matter where you came from, your religious training OR no religiosity, all are welcome because we are a ‘Come As You Are’ Community, a come as you are gathering of believers.  You are welcome here. There is no impression management needed with us.  Just be real. 

Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself on the journey of faith,
there is a place for you here.

Call to worship (from Matthew 10:29-31)
Not one sparrow will fall to the ground apart from their Creator.
God tells us we are of more value than many sparrows.
God knows us and loves us.
Even the hairs of our head are all counted. 
We praise you, O God! Grateful are we for your love and care!

#173 NCH You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore

Copyright @1979, 1987, Casareo Gabarain,
OCP Publications

You have come down to the lake-shore 
seek-ing neither the wise nor the wealth-y,
But on-ly ask-ing for me to follow. 

O JE-SUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED IN-TO MY EYES;
KIND-LY SMIL-ING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE A-BAN-DONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTH-ER SEAS. 

You know full well my pos-ses-sions. 
Neither trea-sure nor weapons for con-quest,
Just these my fish-nets and will for work-ing. 

O JE-SUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED IN-TO MY EYES;
KIND-LY SMIL-ING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE A-BAN-DONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTH-ER SEAS. 

You need my hands, my ex-haus-tion, 
work-ing love for the rest of the wea-ry—
A love that’s will-ing to go on liv-ing.

O JE-SUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED IN-TO MY EYES;
KIND-LY SMIL-ING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE A-BAN-DONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTH-ER SEAS. 

You who have fished oth-er wa-ters; 
you, the long-ing of souls that are yearn-ing:
As lov-ing Friend, you have come to call me.

O JE-SUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED IN-TO MY EYES;
KIND-LY SMIL-ING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE A-BAN-DONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTH-ER SEAS. 

Call to confession
Before we hear the Word read and proclaimed, let us prepare our hearts through the confession of our individual and collective sins.

Prayer of confession
You send us, God of the Great Commission, but we hedge and hesitate. Forgive our fear and our excuses. 

We are witnesses of your grace and glory but allow others to silence our praise. We imprison ourselves with doubt and shame and fail to shine your light for all to see. 

Forgive our fears. Free our testimony. Help us be your faithful disciples. Amen. 

Assurance of pardon
Through Christ’s death and resurrection, we are a new creation, ready to sing God’s glory and testify to God’s grace. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and freed. Amen.

Prayer for illumination
Savior God, your Word is a lamp to our feet on this discipleship road.  Walk with us. Guide us with your wisdom and grace. Open us to discerning your will and your way. Amen.

Scripture readings:  Kim McCardell

First reading

• Genesis 21:8-21

Second reading

• Romans 6:1b-11

#181 NCH You Are Salt for the Earth, O People vs. 1 & 4

Marty Haugen, 1986, Copyright 1986 by GIA

1.You are salt for the earth, O people: salt for the reign of God!
Share the flavor of life, O peo-ple: life in the Cit-y of God!
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF MER-CY, 
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF PEACE;
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF JUS-TICE,
BRING FORTH THE CIT-Y OF GOD!

4.We are blessed and a pilgrim peo-ple: bonde for the reign of God!
Love our journey and love our home-land: love is the Cit-y of God!

BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF MER-CY, 
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF PEACE;
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF JUS-TICE,
BRING FORTH THE CIT-Y OF GOD!

Gospel

• Matthew 10:24-39

Sermon

Affirmation of faith (silently in your heart)
We trust in God, whom Jesus called Abba, Father.
In sovereign love God created the world good and makes everyone equally in God’s image, male and female, of every race and people, to live as one community. But we rebel against God; we hide from our Creator. Ignoring God’s commandments, we violate the image of God in others and ourselves, accept lies as truth, exploit neighbor and nature, and threaten death to the planet entrusted to our care. We deserve God’s condemnation. Yet God acts with justice and mercy to redeem creation. In everlasting love, the God of Abraham and Sarah chose a covenant people to bless all families of the earth.
Hearing their cry, God delivered the children of Israel from the house of bondage. Loving us still, God makes us heirs with Christ of the covenant. Like a mother who will not forsake her nursing child, like a father who runs to welcome the prodigal home, God is faithful still. 

Prayers of the people and the Lord’s Prayer (volunteer)
God of courage and mercy,
You send us into the world with a word of life, even when that word is difficult to speak and hard to receive. You know the ties that bind us:  families and friendships, congregations and communities, traditions handed down by those we love. Teach us to honor these gifts without making idols of them. 

Give us courage to follow Christ when his way unsettles what is familiar, challenges what we have inherited and calls us toward deeper truth. When we face resistance from those closest to us, steady our hearts. When we are tempted to keep a fragile peace by avoiding hard conversations, give us wisdom and grace. When we speak too quickly, humble us. When we stay silent out of fear, strengthen us. Help us bear witness with love, patience and conviction, trusting that your gospel is not ours to control, but ours to embody.

On this Father’s Day, we give thanks for fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, foster fathers, mentors and all who have offered steady love, protection, guidance and blessing. We thank you for those who taught us courage, showed us tenderness, encouraged our questions and helped us grow into the people you created us to be.

We pray also for those for whom this day is complicated: those grieving fathers they have lost, those longing to be fathers, those estranged from fathers or children, those wounded by a father’s absence or harm. Hold each one in your compassion. Heal what is broken. Bless what has been life-giving. Help all who father and nurture others to reflect your justice, gentleness and steadfast love.

God of summer, this world is yours, and we live by your abundance.  The heat and humidity can be oppressive, God, except for those with access to swimming pools, air conditioning and cool places of rest. So, we pray for those without access or excess. We pray for people without safe shelter or respite from the heat.

We pray for those whose lives are threatened by rising temperatures. We pray for the poor and impoverished in this country and around the world. May we find ways to shelter, protect and nurture all your children.

Hear our thanks and praise for the blessings of this season. Hear, also, our prayers for those who are struggling. Especially, we pray for: 

• The people of warring countries 
• Those who groan with grief 
• Those who are isolated and alone 
• Those who are sick and their caregivers 
• Those who are overwhelmed and exhausted 
• Those whose families are strained, divided or hurting 
• Those who are seeking courage to tell the truth in love 
• Those who — for whatever reason — cannot enjoy the blessings of summer

In your mercy, Beloved God, hear the prayers of your people. Now, as the Body of Christ, we pray as Christ taught us, “Our Father …”.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Trinity Lutheran 3:00 Meal Today
• August 16:  ALL CHURCH MEETING

Sending and blessing
God, bless us. Jesus, walk with us. Holy Spirit, guide us. As we leave this house of worship may the grace, hope, peace and love of God our Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer be with us all, now and always. Amen. 

#539 NCH Won’t You Let Me Be Your Servant?

Richard Gillard, 1977; alt.
Tune:  Bobby Fisher b. 1952 @ 1992 GIA Publications

Won’t you let me be your servant, let me be as Christ to you?
Pray that I may have the grace to let you be my servant, too. 

We are pilgrims on a journey, we are trav-elers on the road;
We are here to help each oth-er go the mile and bear the load. 

I will hold the Christ-light for you in the shad-ow of your fear;
I will hold my hand out to you, speak the peace you long to hear.

Pay Pal OR Snail Mail Support for our Ministry to:
First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond, Michigan 48062

Bulletin Back Page June 21, 2026

On-Line Worship 06/14/26

Order of Worship
Third Sunday of Pentecost
June 14, 2026

Prelude:  by Bob Gorniac

• #303 Breaking Bread OCP (musician only)
• What Is This Place

Text and music @1967 Huub Oosterhuis
tr. by David Smith
Music trad. Dutch hymn 1626

Ringing of the Bell

Lighting of the candle

Welcome
Welcome to our community where differences are celebrated, kindness is valued, and friendships flourish. Everyone is welcome and that is true.  No matter where you came from, your religious training OR no religiosity, all are welcome because we are a ‘Come As You Are’ Community, a come as you are gathering of believers.  You are welcome here. There is no impression management needed with us.  Just be real. 

Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself on the journey of faith,
there is a place for you here.

Offertory

First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond MI 48062
Rev. Katie Dailey, Pastor
If you prefer to send a check or are uncomfortable using Internet:  Please include an email.

Thank you for claiming First UCC as your non-profit at Gordon Foods/Kroger

Thanksgiving for the offering
All we have, we have from God, the one who made each of us with unique gifts that together make the body of Christ whole. In gratitude for all we have received, we reach up in thanksgiving, and we reach out in service, sharing our time, talents, and treasures, so that God’s kingdom may come here and now. Let us consider our gifts given in grateful praise.

Prayer of dedication
Generous God, how can we thank you for all that you have given us?  Have we all given back a tiny portion in hopes that it may bless the world as you have blessed us?  Give us a nudge if we haven’t contributed.   In the name of Jesus, our brother and our Lord, Amen.

*Call to worship (based on Psalm 116)
The Lord hears us when we cry out.
Praise the Lord!
The Lord showers us with blessings.
Praise the Lord!
Let us lift up the name of the Lord for all to hear!
Praise the Lord!
Let us sing of God’s endless grace and compassion!
Let us worship God! 

#507 Gather - I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light

Words & Music: Kathleen Thomerson
@1970, 1975 Celebration, Aliquippa, PA
GIA@1987

I want to walk as a child of the light I want to follow Jesus
God sent the stars to give light to the world The star of my life is Jesus 

In Him, there is no darkness at all The night and the day are both alike
The Lamb is the light of the city of God Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus 

I want to see the brightness of God I want to look at Jesus
Clear sun of righteousness, shine on my path 
And show me the way to the Father

In Him, there is no darkness at all The night and the day are both alike
The Lamb is the light of the city of God Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus 

I'm looking for the coming of Christ I want to be with Jesus
When we have run with patience the race We shall know the joy of Jesus 

In Him, there is no darkness at all The night and the day are both alike
The Lamb is the light of the city of God Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus

Call to confession
We come before God who loves us with a love that surpasses understanding. Even when we struggle to forgive ourselves, God reaches out to us with grace and peace. There isn’t anything that could take that love away. So, we come to God to name where we have failed, trusting in God’s amazing grace. Friends, let us confess our sin, first together and then in silent prayer. 

Prayer of confession (based on Romans 5)
Loving God, we come with heavy hearts. We have not lived as you have called us to live. We give up too easily. We ignore our neighbor’s cries for help and are silent in the face of injustice. We lose hope. We fail to see your blessings among us and are blind to the glimpses of the kingdom all around us. We are weak. Have mercy upon us. Shower us with your grace that we might be enlivened for service and for love. Lord, hear our prayer… Amen.

Assurance of pardon
Friends, God loves you. God wants to be in relationship with you. God allows nothing to come between you and God. Believe this and know that you are forgiven and freed to love and serve. Alleluia. Amen.

Prayer for illumination
God of joy and wonder, breathe your Spirit upon us. Open our hearts and ears to hear these ancient words and be surprised. Open our minds and our eyes to see our place in your living word today and every day. Amen. 

Scripture readings proclaimed by Michael Grzanka

First reading

• Genesis 18:1-15, (21:1-7)

Second reading

• Romans 5:1-8

#574 Gather - Lead Me, Guide Me vs. 1 & 3

@1953 Doris M. Akers
Text and Tune Doris Akers
harm, by Richard Smallwood

Lead me, guide me, a-long the way, For if you lead me, I can-not stray.
Lord, let me walk each day with thee. Lead me, oh Lord, lead me.

I am weak and I need thy strength and power 
to help me o-ver my weak-est hour.
Help me through the dark-ness thy face to see, Lead me, oh Lord, lead me.

Lead me, guide me, a-long the way, For if you lead me, I can-not stray.
Lord, let me walk each day with thee. Lead me, oh Lord, lead me.

I am lost if you take your hand from me, I am blind with-out thy Light to see,
Lord, just al-ways let me thy servant be. Lead me, oh Lord, lead me.

Lead me, guide me, a-long the way, For if you lead me, I can-not stray.
Lord, let me walk each day with thee. Lead me, oh Lord, lead me.

Gospel

• Matthew 9:35-10:8, (9-23)

Sermon

Affirmation of faith [silently]

Q. What is true faith?

A. True faith is not only a sure knowledge by which I hold as true all that God has revealed to us in Scripture; it is also a wholehearted trust, which the Holy Spirit creates in me by the gospel, that God has freely granted, not only to others but to me also, forgiveness of sins, eternal righteousness, and salvation. These are gifts of sheer grace granted solely by Christ’s merit. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Prayers of the people and the Lord’s Prayer (based on Genesis 18 & 21)
Let us pray.
God of Laughter and Joy, we give thanks for the everyday miracles around us. For the laughter shared between friends, for the love shared in community, for the beauty of the world that leaves us speechless with joy. 

But even as we give thanks, we are aware of those who struggle to see a bright future, a world full of blessings, a reason to laugh. We lift up the concerns of this world. 

We pray for the travelers in our midst, for immigrants finding their way in a new place far from home, for refugees fleeing instability and war, for those forced to leave homes because of violence and intolerance. Journey with them, Lord. Lead your children to places of safety and welcome. 

Make us as quick to offer hospitality, opening hearts and homes to those in need, until all live in safety and peace. We pray for the hungry, for those who have no idea where their next meal will come from, for those who struggle to scrape together a simple meal for their family, for those who go to bed with grumbling stomachs. Bring an end to hunger, Lord. Lead your children to tables of plenty. Make us as quick to share our abundance, setting tables and feeding each other, until all are fed by your great abundance.  

We pray for the lonely, for those whose relationships with family are frayed, for those standing in shadows, yearning to be seen, for the divisions between neighbors born of fear and greed. 

Mend the threads of community for survival, Lord. Lead us into places of beloved community, where our diversity is seen as a gift, where our uniqueness is valued, where dignity is respected. 

Make us quick to be peacemakers, breaking down barriers and building bridges, until this world is the way you want it to be for us. 

We pray for those who hardly dare to hope, for those whose dreams seem woefully out of reach, for those whose lives have been turned upside down by illness and loss, for those who suffer from depression, addiction, or patterns of self-harm. Embrace them, Lord. Lead them to places of comfort. Make us quick to reach out, offering a loving presence when all seems lost, until all know your peace. 

Holy God, birth a sense of laughter and joy within this world. Help us to trust what you can do and call us into the dance of reconciliation and healing. Strengthen our hands and feet for service and our hearts and voices for proclamation. This we ask in the name of Jesus, the Joy of the World, who taught us to pray, saying, “Our Father…” 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Thank you for those who participate in our Euchre Tournament on the 2nd Saturday’s of the month. 
• Church Council follows worship today.

Sending & blessing
Friends, we cannot stay here. There is work to be done out there. Go, be the church in the world. Love boldly. Speak bravely. Laugh joyfully. And trust in what the Lord can do.

May the love of God, the grace of Jesus Christ, and the communion of the Holy Spirit uplift and uphold you now and forever. Amen.

#593 NCH Lift Every Voice and Sing

James Weldon Johnson, 1921
J. Rosamond Johnson, 1921

Lift ev-ery voice and sing, till earth and heav-en ring,
ring with the har-mo-nies of lib-er ty;
Let our re-joic-ing rise, high as the listening skies,
let it re-sound loud as the roll-ing sea. 

Sing a song full of the faith that the harsh past has taught us,
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;
Fac-ing the rising sun of our new day be-gun, 
let us march on till vic-to-ry is won. 

Ston-y the road we trod, bit-ter the chastening rod, 
felt in the days when hope un-born had died;
Yet with a stead-y beat, have not our wea-ry feet,
come to the place for which our people sighed?

We have come o-ver a way that with tears has been wa-tered,
We have come, tread-ing our path through the blood of the slaughtered,
Out from the gloom-y past, till now we stand at last
where the white gleam of our bright star is cast. 

God of our wea-ry years, God of our si-lent tears, 
God who has brought us thus far on the way;
God, who by your might, let us in-to the light,
keep us for-ev-er in the path, we pray. 

Lest our feet stray from the plac-es our God, where we met you.
Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, for - get you;
shad-owed be-neath your hand, may we for ev-er stand,
true to our God, true to our na - live lan

Postlude:  Bob Gorinac

Thank you for praying with us - have a wonderful week!

OUR SERVICE HAS ENDED
LET OUR SERVICE BEGIN

Pay Pal OR Snail Mail Support for our Ministry to:
First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond, Michigan 48062

Bulletin Back Page June 14

On-Line Worship 6/07/25

Order of Worship
Second Sunday of Pentecost
June 07, 2026

Prelude:  Performed by Bob Gorinac 

Offertory

First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond MI 48062
Rev. Katie Dailey, Pastor
If you prefer to send a check or are uncomfortable using Internet:  Please include an email.

Thank you for claiming First UCC as your non-profit at Gordon Foods/Kroger

Call for the offering 
In gratitude for God’s grace and love, we offer gifts that have been entrusted to us, trusting in God’s faithful love and provision. Let us joyfully offer the gifts of our lives!

Prayer of dedication
Holy God, we offer our gifts today and every day, trusting in your promises to heal, reconcile and bring justice and peace.
May all that we offer be transformed into signs of your love and acts of your mercy.
We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Ringing of the Bell

Lighting of the candle

Welcome
Thank you for joining worship with us here at First United Church of Christ Richmond. We are ‘Intersection’ at S. Forest & Main. We are glad to have you if you are in-person or online.  And thank you also for going onto our chat and leaving remarks:  we welcome any comments and encouragement.

Welcome to our community where differences are celebrated, kindness is valued, and friendships flourish. All are welcome because we are a ‘Come As You Are’ church.

Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself
on the journey of faith,
there is a place for you here.

Call to worship
Rejoice in the Lord!
Praise the Lord with instruments and shouts of joy! 
God loves justice and righteousness.
The earth is full of God’s love.
Let all of creation revel in awe of God, our creator.
God’s love endures forever.
Amen! Let us worship together. 

#31 NCH All Things Bright and Beautiful 

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAU-TI-FUL, 
ALL CREA-TURES GREAT AND SMALL,
ALL THINGS WISE AND WON-DER-FUL, OUR DEAR GOD MADE THEM ALL.

Each lit-tle flower that o-pens, each little bird that sings,
God made their glow-ing col-ors, and made their ti-ny wings. 

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAU-TI-FUL, 
ALL CREA-TURES GREAT AND SMALL,
ALL THINGS WISE AND WON-DER-FUL, OUR DEAR GOD MADE THEM ALL.

The pur-ple-head-ed moun-tain, the riv-er running by,
The sun-set, and the morn-ing that bright-ens up the sky. 

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAU-TI-FUL, 
ALL CREA-TURES GREAT AND SMALL,
ALL THINGS WISE AND WON-DER-FUL, OUR DEAR GOD MADE THEM ALL.

The cold wind in the winter, the pleas-ant sum-mer sun,
The ripe fruits in the gar-den, God made them ev-ery one. 

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAU-TI-FUL, 
ALL CREA-TURES GREAT AND SMALL,
ALL THINGS WISE AND WON-DER-FUL, OUR DEAR GOD MADE THEM ALL.

Call to confession
Jesus tends the wounds of a broken world, and binds up the broken-hearted. By faith, let us confess our need for healing: 

Prayer of confession (silently in your heart)
Holy God, we confess, a bit pridefully, that we appreciate decency and order, forgetting that we seek the order that is of our own making. 

We confess that clear rules and social norms give us comfort, forgetting how many of your beloved children are hurt and excluded by them. 

We confess that we place our trust in ability, strength, and the works we produce, forgetting our total reliance on your grace. 

Forgive us, God, and free us to live in courageous faith, that we may abide in your righteousness. Amen. 

Assurance of pardon
Jesus said, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” We have been blessed with God’s grace and mercy in abundance, through Jesus Christ. Know that we are forgiven, and be at peace!

Prayer for Ilumination
God of Wisdom, your Word is upright, and you are faithful to your promises.  

As we hear your Word read and proclaimed, may your Holy Spirit move among us, inspiring faith without fear, and showing us a new way forward. Amen.

Scripture readings by Kim Schrote

First reading

• Genesis 12:1-9

Second reading

• Romans 4:13-25

#765 NCH Alleluia

Gospel

• Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26  

Sermon

Affirmation of faith (in silence of your heart)

Prayers of the people and the Lord’s Prayer 6/7/2026
God, Creator of all, we come before you, lamenting the sickness in our lives and in the world. We pray for your healing, praying, “God of power, heal us now.” 

God, we pray for the sicknesses that plague our world: war, violence, hatred and greed. These have devastated your creation, and created systems of oppression and domination. Your beloved children have become collateral damage. The full extent of grief and devastation is known only to you, but we pray that you open us in love and solidarity as we seek a way forward. 

God of power, heal us now.
God, we pray for the many forms of sickness that we encounter. We pray for those whose pain is ignored and dismissed, for those who wait to seek treatment because it is not accessible, or too expensive. We pray for all who have become dependent on fleeting relief from pain and suffering, only to find themselves in the agony of addiction. We pray for loved ones who are struggling to discern the best way to support them.  We pray for all who are having memory loss issues and we pray for those around them to have patience.  After all, it might happen to any of us someday. 

We pray for all who wake up each day to the realities of mental illness, for care and compassion, and for effective treatments. We pray for those who are fighting illness and diseases known and unknown, for those awaiting medical interventions, those recovering from them, and all who are facing terminal illness. 

God of power, heal us now.
God, we pray for the difficult circumstances in our lives. We pray for families and loved ones who are separated, whether by their choice or something beyond their control. We pray for those facing financial situations that are untenable, that cause more anxiety and suffering. 

We pray for all who are seeking employment, and for those working jobs that place a greater burden on their bodies or spirits. May all find meaningful work that meets their needs. We pray for those facing difficult decisions. We pray for the many who are lonely, even when surrounded by others. We pray for those facing heartbreak, or insurmountable odds. We pray for those who have lost hope or faith, knowing that they are still covered by your grace and mercy. 

God of power, heal us now.
To these petitions we add our prayers…
Entrusting them all to your loving care, renew our faith, and strengthen us to love and serve you. All of this we ask in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray, saying, “Our Father…”.

Communion Rite

Here I Am, Lord 

I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my peo-ple cry, 
All who dwell in dark and sin my hand will save.
|I who made the stars of night, I will make their dark-ness bright
Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send? 

HERE I AM, LORD. IS IT I, LORD?
I HAVE HEARD YOU CALL-ING IN THE NIGHT.
I WILL GO, LORD, IF YOUR LEAD ME.
I WILL HOLD YOUR PEO-PLE IN MY HEART. 

I the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people’s pain.
I have wept for love of them, they turn a-way.
I will break their hearts of stone, give them hearts for love a-lone.
I will speak my word to them. whom shall I send?

HERE I AM, LORD. IS IT I, LORD?
I HAVE HEARD YOU CALL-ING IN THE NIGHT.
I WILL GO, LORD, IF YOUR LEAD ME.
I WILL HOLD YOUR PEO-PLE IN MY HEART.  

I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame.
I will set a feast for them, my hand will save.
Fin-est breth I will pro-vide till their hearts be sat-is-fied.
I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? 

Story: Take, Break, Bless, and Serve 

Prayer After Communion 

Announcements 

Sending and Blessing 
Let us go from this place with the courage and faith of Sarai and Abram, strengthened and empowered by the Holy Spirit to follow Jesus, relying on the grace of God made known to us in Jesus Christ. May the grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you, now and always. Amen.

#70 NCH God Is Here!  As We Your People Meet

Fred Pratt Green, 1978
TUNE Abbots Leigh, Cyril V. Taylor, 1941

God is here! As we your people meet to of-fer praise and prayer,
May we find in full-er mea-sure what it is in Christ we share. 

Here, as in the world a-round us, all our varied skills and arts
wait the com-ing of the Spir-it in-to o-pen minds and hearts. 

Here are symbols to re-mind us of our life-long need of grace;
Here are ta-ble, font, and pul-pit, here the cross has central place. 

Here in hon-es-ty of preach-ing, here in si-lence, as in speech,
here in new-ness and re-new-al, God the Spir-it comes to each. 

Here our children find a welcome in the shepherd’s flock and fold;
Here as bread and wine are tak-en, Christ sus-tains us as of old. 

Here the servants of the Servant seek in worship to ex-plore
what it means in dai-ly liv-ing to be-lieve and to a-dore.

Postlude:  Bob Gorinac

Thank you for praying with us - have a wonderful week!

OUR SERVICE HAS ENDED
LET OUR SERVICE BEGIN

Pay Pal OR Snail Mail Support for our Ministry to:
First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond, Michigan 48062

Bulletin Back Page June 07

On-Line Worship 5/31/26

Order of Worship
Trinity Sunday
May 31, 2026

Prelude:  Bob Gorniac 

• Prelude will end with
  #276 NCH Holy God, We Praise Your Name. 

  Anon, German, @1774
  Katholiches Gesangbuch, Vienna, 1774
  Alt. Johann Gottfried Schicht, 1810

Offertory

First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond MI 48062
Rev. Katie Dailey, Pastor
Pay Pal on Facebook. Church Address for snail mail if you prefer to send a check or are uncomfortable using Internet:  Please include your email.

Thank you for claiming First UCC as your non-profit at Gordon Foods/Kroger

Thanksgiving for Offering
Having heard of God’s love and grace to us all, let us give all that we are to God. Let us give of what we have for God’s work in the world.

Prayer of Dedication
Holy God, all that we have and all that we are is a gift from you. We dedicate these gifts given this day to your work of making disciples in this time and place. Amen.

Ringing of the Bell

Lighting of the candle

Welcome
Thank you for joining worship with us here at First United Church of Christ Richmond. We are ‘Intersection’ at S. Forest & Main. We are glad to have you if you are in-person or online.  And thank you also for going onto our chat and leaving remarks:  we welcome any comments and encouragement.

Welcome to our community where differences are celebrated, kindness is valued, and friendships flourish. All are welcome because we are a ‘Come As You Are’ church.

Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself
on the journey of faith,
there is a place for you here.

Mission Statement:
We are traveling life’s road: created by God, guided by Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit and grounded in scripture. We strive to be individuals on a spiritual journey and a community sharing God’s love with all.

Call to worship 
Our gracious God has created us and called us his own.  
Let us worship the triune God.
Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has redeemed our lives.  
Let us worship the triune God.
The Holy Spirit sustains and guides us all the days of our lives.
In gratitude and joy,
let us worship the triune God!

#277 NCH Holy, Holy, Holy

Reginald Heber, 1826; alt.

Ho-ly, ho-ly, ho-ly, God the Al-might-y! 
Ear-ly in the morn-ing we praise your majesty
Ho-ly, ho-ly ho-ly! Mer-ci-ful and might-y!
God in three per-sons, bless-ed Trin-i-ty! 

Ho-ly, ho-ly, ho-ly! Saints a-dore you tru-ly,
Cast-ing down their gold-en crowns a-round the glass-y sea;
Cher-u-bim and ser-a-phim bow be-fore you on-ly,
From the be-gin-ning, God e-ter-nal-ly. 

Ho-ly, ho-ly, ho-ly! Though we know but dim-ly,
Though the eyes of hum-an-kind your glo-ry may not see,
You a-lone are ho-ly, you a-lone are worthy,
Perfect in power, in love and pur-i-ty. 

Ho-ly, ho-ly, ho-ly, God the Al-might-y!
All your works shall praise your name in earth and sky and sea.
Ho-ly, ho-ly, ho-ly! Mer-ci-ful and might-y!
God in three per-sons, bless-ed Trin-i-ty! 

Call to confession
God calls us, again and again, to turn from all that separates us from the Divine and to return to God’s path. Let us, then, name the ways we have sinned in wandering from God, relying on God’s mercy to forgive and renew us.

Prayer of confession
Look deep, loving God, and see us as we really are. We are a people who prefer our will to your will. 

We focus on things of the self and give little thought or care to others. We wander through our days giving little thought to our own discipleship, let alone our call to help others become disciples. 

Forgive us, God of grace. Forgive us and set us again on the path of your righteousness. Amen. 

Assurance of pardon
Hear the Good News! While it is true that we have sinned, it is a greater truth that in the name of Jesus Christ we are forgiven. Know you are forgiven and be at peace. Amen.

Prayer for illumination
Loving God, open our hearts and minds to what you would say to us this day. By your Spirit, we ask that you would speak, as we, your people, are listening. Amen.

Scripture readings by Ron Schrote

First reading

• Genesis 1:1-2:4a

Second reading

• 2 Corinthians 13:11-13

#765 NCH Alleluia 

Gospel

• Matthew 28:16-20

Sermon

Celebration of Baptism 

Samantha Jolene Zych
Child of Tony and Erin ‘Dunsmore’ Zych
godmother:  Stephanie Sapienza
godfather:  Matthew Nierman

To the Assembly:  Do you, who witness and celebrate this sacrament, promise your love, support, and care to Samantha about to be baptized, as she lives and grows in Christ?
We promise our love, support and care. 

Let us unite with the church in all times and places in confessing our faith in the triune God
Do you believe in God? 
I believe in God.
Do you believe in Jesus Christ? 
I believe in Jesus Christ.
Do you believe in the Holy Spirit?  
I believe in the Holy Spirit. 

Christ be with you.  And also with you.  Let us pray.
Bless by your Holy Spirit, gracious God, this water. (pour)
Create new life in this one baptized this day that she may rise in Christ.  Glory to you, eternal God, the one who was, and is and shall always be world without end. 

By what name will your child be called? 

Samantha Jolene Zych I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 

Samantha’s white garment is a sign of the new life Samantha is given in Christ.  Samantha you are a child of God.  The Holy Spirit be upon you Samantha child of God, disciple of Christ, member of the church. 

_______The light of Christ is given so that you may always follow the light of Christ.  You must bring the light to other people. 

Let us pray for Samantha Jolene baptized today; may she be filled with joy, may she never be ashamed to confess a personal faith in you, Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer. 

Bless her parents Tony and Erin, and sponsors Matthew and Stephanie and her grandparents.  Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer. 

#323 NCH Little Children, Welcome vs-1&2

Fred Pratt Green, 1973
Roy Hopp, 1988

Little Saman-tha, well-come! Earth is yours to live in; arms of love protect you,
Little Saman-tha wel-come! 

Little Saman-tha welcome! Je-sus cares a-bout you; Je-sus now en-folds you,
Lit-tle Saman-tha welcome! 

Prayers of the people and the Lord’s Prayer
We give thanks for Rich, Dave, Jerry, and Kim and Ron who take care of the grass cutting.

We lift those seeking employment and those under-employed.

We pray for Samantha Jolene Zych on this day of her Baptism, we lift up her godparents Stephanie Sapienza and Matthew Norman, and we lift up her siblings Raelynn and Anthony and her parents Erin and Tony. Together they are a small community of faith and together they will provide for Samantha a place to grow into faith.

Gracious and loving God, hear us now, we pray, as we bring to you our prayers and concerns for the world around us.  We pray for the world around us.

Where there is oppression and injustice, may your kingdom come. Where there is war and violence, may your peace reign.

May we each work for the good of others, around the world and close to home.

We pray for our nation. It seems as if our divisions and differences define us. We have lost the vision of our nation as a source of great hope for all.

We have forgotten about the greater good and gotten lost in our special interests. Forgive us, God of unity, and guide us again to seeing the humanity in one another, regardless of political position.

We pray for our communities. May the local church be the source of hope and help in each place where we live. May our witness be strong and sure in the neediest in our communities, and may our churches work for a better future for all.

We pray for all who are sick or suffering. As Jesus was near to those who suffered, teach us to do the same. Teach us to serve as Jesus did and to surround those who need your special care with your peace that surpasses all understanding.

Lastly, Lord, teach us your ways and grow us into the disciples you want us to be. We pray all these things in the name of the one who taught us to pray, saying, “Our Father…”.

Sending and Blessing
I charge you to live as disciples, empowered by the triune God, this day and forever more. And may you be surrounded with the love of God, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Spirit. Amen. 

Lord of the Dance

Text Sydney Carter 1915
@ Stainer and Bell, London England
SHAKER SONG from Gather #708

I danced in the morn-ing when the world was begun,
And I danced in the moon and the stars and the sun,
And I came down from heav-en and I danced on the earth;
At Beth-le-hem I had my birth. 

DANCE THEN WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE; 
I AM THE LORD OF THE DANCE, SAID HE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL, WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL IN THE DANCE, SAID HE. 

I danced for the scribe and the phar-i-see,
But they would-not dance, and they would-n’t follow me;
I danced for the fish-er-men, for James and John;
They came with me and the dance went on. 

DANCE THEN WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE; 
I AM THE LORD OF THE DANCE, SAID HE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL, WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL IN THE DANCE, SAID HE.  

I danced on the Sab-bath and I cured the lame;
The ho-ly people said it was a shame.
They whipped and the stripped and they hung me high,
And theyleft me there on a cross to die. 

DANCE THEN WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE; 
I AM THE LORD OF THE DANCE, SAID HE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL, WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL IN THE DANCE, SAID HE.  

I danced on a Fri-day when the sky turned black;
It’s hard to dance with the dev-il on your back.
They buried my bod-y and they thought I’d gone;
But I am the dance and I still go on. 

DANCE THEN WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE; 
I AM THE LORD OF THE DANCE, SAID HE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL, WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL IN THE DANCE, SAID HE.  

They cut me down and I lept up high;
I am the the life that ‘ll nev-er, nev-er die;
I’ll live in you if you’ll live in me;
I am the Lord of the Dance, said he. 

DANCE THEN WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE; 
I AM THE LORD OF THE DANCE, SAID HE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL, WHER-EV-ER YOU MAY BE,
I’LL LEAD YOU ALL IN THE DANCE, SAID HE. 

Postlude:  Bob Gorniac

Thank you for praying with us - have a wonderful week!

OUR SERVICE HAS ENDED
LET OUR SERVICE BEGIN

Pay Pal OR Snail Mail Support for our Ministry to:
First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond, Michigan 48062

Bulletin Back Page May 31, 2026

On-Line Worship 5/24/26

Order of Worship
Day of Pentecost
May 24, 2025

Prelude:  Bob Gorniac

Offertory

First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond MI 48062
Rev. Katie Dailey, Pastor

If you prefer to send a check or are uncomfortable using Internet:  Please include an email.

Thank you for claiming First UCC as your non-profit at Gordon Foods/Kroger

Thanksgiving for the offering
God’s Spirit is among us making all things new. We continue  to participate in this new creation by offering our gifts to God.

Prayer of dedication
You give with open hands, Most Generous God, sharing gifts as seed to sow. We gathered these offerings, asking only that they might take root and flourish — to tend your Kingdom, to nurture your beloved community. 

Let our acts be not merely ritual but a commitment: a shaping of the world in your image, one generous gesture at a time.  Amen.

Ringing of the Bell

Lighting of the candle

Welcome
Thank you for joining worship with us here at First United Church of Christ Richmond. We are ‘Intersection’ at S. Forest & Main. We are glad to have you if you are in-person or online.  And thank you also for going onto our chat and leaving remarks:  we welcome any comments and encouragement.

Welcome to our community where differences are celebrated, kindness is valued, and friendships flourish. All are welcome because we are a ‘Come As You Are’ church.

Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself
on the journey of faith,
there is a place for you here.

Call to worship (based on Acts 2:1-4)
All together in one place;
they heard the rush of a violent wind;
it filled the entire house. Divided tongues, as of fire,
appeared and rested on each of them;
they were filled with the Holy Spirit. 

Spirit Song

Text: John Wimber, b. 1934
Tune: John Wimber, arr by James Abbington, b. 1960
1979, Mercy/Vineyard Publishing
One License A 721 722

Oh, let the Son of God en-fold you, with His Spir-it and His love,
Let Him fill your heart and sat-is-fy your soul. 

Oh, let Him have the things that hold you, and His Spir-it like a dove,
Will de-scend up-on your life, and make you whole. 

JE-SUS. OH, JE-SUS, COME AND FILL YOUR LAMBS.
JE-SUS, OH, JE-SUS, COME AND FILL YOUR LAMBS. 

Oh, come and sing this song with glad-ness, as your hearts are filled with joy,
Lift your hands in sweet sur-ren-der to His name. 

Oh, give Him all your tears and sad-ness, give Him all your years of pain,
And you’ll en-ter in-to life in Je-sus’ name.

JE-SUS. OH, JE-SUS, COME AND FILL YOUR LAMBS.
JE-SUS, OH, JE-SUS, COME AND FILL YOUR LAMBS. 

Be Seated 

Call to confession 
God’s Spirit is alive and at work among us, gathering us for worship, calling us to return to God through prayer, praise and confession. Let us pray together.

Prayer of confession
Spirit of the Living God, we hesitate and doubt. You call us to act boldly, but fear keeps us quiet and circling. We confess our lack of courage, splintered by uncertainty and second-guessing.

Forgive us for all the times we shrink from your call. Embolden us to dream beyond what we know and imagine the world as beloved community. Let your Spirit fill us, prodding us beyond inertia. Grant that we might be Christ’s body, not in fits and starts but with steady conviction. Guided by your Holy Spirit, help us be active participants in ushering in your peaceable kingdom. Amen. 

Assurance of pardon (Acts 2:21)
Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and freed. Amen.

Prayer for illumination
Open our hearts and minds by the power of your Spirit, Holy God, that we might hear and receive the message you intend for us today. Amen. 

Scripture readings:  Kim Schrote

First reading

• Acts 2:1-21 

Second reading

• 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 

#286 NCH Spirit, spirit of Gentleness 2 vs

NCH #56, @ 1993, Tune:  FLORINDEZ
NORWEGIAN TRADITIONAL MELODY
Arr. Lorraine Florindez, 1993

SPIRIT, SPIR-IT OF GEN-TLE-NESS BLOW THROUGH THE WIL-DER-NESS
CALL-ING AND FREE.
SPIR-IT, SPIR-IT OF REST-LESS-NESS, STIR ME FROM PLAC-ID-NESS,
WIND ON THE SEA. 

You moved on the wa-ters, you called to the deep, 
then you coaxed up the mountains from the valleys of sheep;
And o-ver the e-ons you called to each thing.
A-wake from your slum-ber and rise on your wings.”

SPIRIT, SPIR-IT OF GEN-TLE-NESS BLOW THROUGH THE WIL-DER-NESS
CALL-ING AND FREE.
SPIR-IT, SPIR-IT OF REST-LESS-NESS, STIR ME FROM PLAC-ID-NESS,
WIND ON THE SEA. 

You call from to-mor-row, you break an-cient schemes,
from the gond-age of tor-row the cap-gives dream dreams;
Our wom-en see vi-sions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new de-ci-sions your people a-rise.

SPIRIT, SPIR-IT OF GEN-TLE-NESS BLOW THROUGH THE WIL-DER-NESS
CALL-ING AND FREE.
SPIR-IT, SPIR-IT OF REST-LESS-NESS, STIR ME FROM PLAC-ID-NESS,
WIND ON THE SEA. 

Gospel

• John 20:19-23 

Sermon 

Affirmation of faith
I believe in God the Holy Spirit, the Sustainer, the Advocate announced by Christ to bestow upon the church gifts and abilities beyond our human talents.

Whether in the wildness of Pentecost or the intimacy of the still, small voice,
the Holy Spirit guides, teaches and inspires us.

The Spirit illumines our reading of scripture, giving fullness and dimension to flat words on a page.

Through the work of the Spirit, ordinary elements of water, bread and wine
become living testimonies of God’s faithfulness.

In baptism, the Spirit dances over waters of life and death.  The Spirit celebrates with and in us, that before our “yes” is even on our tongues,
God has already claimed us as children.

The Spirit is alive and active within and without the church, breaking and mending, working and playing, through us and in spite of us, seen and unseen, making all things new.

Come, Holy Spirit!  Thanks be to God!

Prayers of the people and the Lord’s Prayer 5/24/2026 volunteer
God of the gathering wind, as we celebrate Pentecost and feel summer’s first warm breath, plant in us the quiet courage of seeds beneath soil — small but determined, destined to rise.

Align our seasons with your divine rhythms. Let us unfurl in righteousness like morning glories opening to dawns light, like wheat fields bending golden under your gaze.

Spirit of Peace, in these days when violence seems to engulf us – when weapons thunder across borders, when classrooms become places of terror, when families walk endless miles seeking shelter – deliver us from the darkness we have allowed to flourish.

Guide the long journey of human history toward your promised justice. Grant us the strength to stand against hatred’s divisions, to speak your love that knows no

boundaries, to transform systems that perpetuate suffering, to be steadfast in our pursuit of peace.

Wind of wisdom, Breath of understanding, You who once drew scattered people together at Pentecost — kindle in us a hospitality that mirrors Christ’s open arms. Unseal our hearts to truly see the journeys others walk.

Fill us with that love which defies boundaries, which heals what seems beyond repair. Let us become your unified voice rising from many throats, your single body formed of countless limbs, offering gratitude for the redemption you have promised and continue to unfold among us.

Let us remember those who have given their all on this Memorial weekend, from military, to parents, children who died too soon, all our ancestors and all who mentored and stayed with us through think and thin.  We remember and call on them in times of need.   The spirit world surrounds us all the time.

Merciful One, attend to these whispered hopes we offer. Together now, as Christ’s living presence, we turn to the ancient words that Jesus gave us praying… “Our Father…”

Announcements

• Enjoy your Memorial Day
• Next week we celebrate the Baptism of SAMANTHA JOLENE ZYCH
• Congratulations to Reagan Manska and Elizabeth Wojciechowski Wednesday graduates from Richmond High School.

Sending and Blessing
May the spark of God ignite you. May the love of Christ renew you. May the Holy Spirit fill you on this Pentecost Sunday and the days to come. Amen. 

#454 NCH Lord, I Want to be a Christian

African-American spiritual
Arr. Joyce Finch Johnson, 1912

Lord, I want to be a Chris-tian in my heart, in my heart;
Lord, I want to be a Chris-tian in my heart.
IN MY HEART, IN MY HEART,
LORD, I WANT TO BE A CHRIS-TIAN IN MY HEART. 

Lord, I want to be more loving in my heart, in my heart,
Lord, I want to be more loving in my heart.
IN MY HEART, IN MY HEART,
LORD, I WANT TO BE A CHRIS-TIAN IN MY HEART. 

Lord, I want to be more ho-ly in my heart, in my heart;
Lord, I want to be more ho-ly in my heart.
IN MY HEART, IN MY HEART,
LORD, I WANT TO BE A CHRIS-TIAN IN MY HEART.  

Lord, I want to be like Je-sus in my heart, in my heart;
Lord, I want to be like Je-sus in my heart.
IN MY HEART, IN MY HEART,
LORD, I WANT TO BE A CHRIS-TIAN IN MY HEART. 

Postlude:  Bob Gorinac

Thank you for praying with us - have a wonderful week!

OUR SERVICE HAS ENDED
LET OUR SERVICE BEGIN

Pay Pal OR Snail Mail Support for our Ministry to:
First United Church of Christ
68651 S. Forest
Richmond, Michigan 48062

Bulletin Back Page May 24, 2026