First UCC Richmond

On-Line Worship 01/19/25

Order of Worship
Second Sunday after Epiphany
January 19, 2025

Prelude:  Bob Gorniac:  Come With Praise

Dan Schutte of Psalm 187,
NALR, 10802 North 23rd Avenue,
Phoenix, Arizona 85029
Lover of Us All p. 6

Welcome

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 Offerings 

DOXOLOGY #780 NCH (All)

Prayer of Dedication
Just as Jesus turned gallons of water into wine, we too know God’s extravagant blessings. Take these gifts we give today and bless them, Holy God, that others may know your abundance and live whole and healthy lives. 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’ church. [CAYA]

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 Psalm 36:7-9)

#173 NCH You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore

Copyright @1979, 1987, Casareo Gabarain,
OCP Publications

You have come down to the lakeshore seeking neither the wise nor the wealthy, But only asking for me to follow. 

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS. 

You know full well my possessions. Neither treasure not weapons for conquest,
Just these my fishnets and will for working.

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS. 

You need my hands, my exhaustion, working love for the rest of the weary—
A love that’s willing to go on living.

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS. 

You who have fished other waters; you, the longing of souls that are yearning:
As loving Friend, you have come to call me.

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS.  

Call to Confession 

Prayer of Confession (based on 1 Corinthians 12:1-11)
You have blessed us with a variety of gifts, Holy God, but some are reluctant to share. 

Some hoard what is most valuable and make excuses for ourselves when called to share. 

The Spirit has blessed each of us uniquely, but we hide our light under a bushel and fail to rise to our potential. 

God, forgive us and embolden us. Help us to claim our gifts and put them to good use. Amen. 

Assurance of Pardon 

Prayer for illumination
Holy God, we need the guidance of your Word. Help us be honest with ourselves and with you in this sacred moment of proclamation. Amen.

Scripture readings proclaimed by Kim McCardell

First reading

• Isaiah 62:1-5

Second reading

• 1 Corinthians 12:1-11

#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 people: life in the City of God!

BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF MERCY, 
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF PEACE;
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF JUSTICE, BRING FORTH THE CITY OF GOD! 

4.We are blessed and a pilgrim people: bound for the reign of God!
Love our journey and love our homeland: love is the City of God!

BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF MERCY, 
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF PEACE;
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF JUSTICE, BRING FORTH THE CITY OF GOD! 

Gospel

• John 2:1-11

Sermon

Affirmation of faith {silently express what you believe} 

Prayers of the people and the Lord’s Prayer . . .   . . .

We remember Martin Luther King Jr this day and lift up Donald J. Trump as he is inaugurated for a 2nd term.   for the many who stayed to un-decorate our church after worship on January 12. We give thanks. . . .

We cannot continue without the rest you provide. Help us embrace stillness as your great gift.  We thank you for those who will come and join our local church.    And we thank you for the growth of the Euchre Group.

United as the Body of Christ we lift these prayers to you, Savior God.

Hear us now, as we pray the prayer Christ taught us by saying together,

“Our Father….” 

Sending and Blessing
God’s grace is extravagant and abundant,
Know this grace in your life
Share this grace with others.

May God the Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, bless you this day and forevermore. 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 trio be my servant, too. 

We are pilgrims on a journey, we are travelers on the road;
We are here to help each other go the mile and bear the load. 

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

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 January 19, 2025

On-Line Worship 01/12/25

Order of Worship
Baptism of the Lord
January 12, 2025

Prelude:  Bob Gorniac 
                     Come With Praise

Dan Schutte of Psalm 187,
NALR, 10802 North 23rd Avenue,
Phoenix, Arizona 85029
Lover of Us All p. 6

WELCOME

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 OFFERING
Doxology #780 (All)

PRAYER OF DEDICATION (All)
Bless and multiply these gifts, God, that they may be a blessing to others. May whoever benefits from these offerings know of your love for them and our desire to serve. 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.

We are a CAYA [come as you are] Church and we know God is Still Speaking.  Our Table is open to all here at First United Church of Christ.  We share of the cup and bread as a sign that we want to grow into the image of God in which we were created.  We take part and worship together to grow more closely together, sharing each other's joys and burdens.

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

Call to worship (Isaiah 43:1) 

#173 NCH You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore

Copyright @1979, 1987, Casareo Gabarain,
OCP Publications

You have come down to the lakeshore seeking neither the wise nor the wealthy, But only asking for me to follow. 

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS. 

You know full well my possessions. Neither treasure not weapons for conquest,
Just these my fishnets and will for working.

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS. 

You need my hands, my exhaustion, working love for the rest of the weary—
A love that’s willing to go on living.

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS. 

You who have fished other waters; you, the longing of souls that are yearning:
As loving Friend, you have come to call me.

O JESUS, YOU HAVE LOOKED INTO MY EYES;
KINDLY SMILING, YOU’VE CALLED OUT MY NAME.
ON THE SAND I HAVE ABANDONED MY SMALL BOAT;
NOW WITH YOU I WILL SEEK OTHER SEAS. 

Call to Confession 

Prayer of Confession
God, you call us to beloved community with you and with each other. But we exclude and reject those we deem different. You claim us as beloved, but we turn against each other in anger and hate. You liberate us and lead us in Christ’s path of peace, but we build walls and invest in guns and dismiss peace as impractical and unrealistic.  Redeeming God, forgive our worldly ways. Call us and claim us once again for the work of building your beloved community. Amen. 

Assurance of Pardon 

Prayer for illumination
Help us, Holy God, to connect to your word anew. Open the Scriptures to us in a way that is life giving.  Encourage us to listen to the message your Spirit makes known in word and worship. Amen.

Scripture readings:  Christine Hensch

• Isaiah 43:1-7

• Acts 8:14-17

#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 people: life in the City of God!

BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF MERCY, 
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF PEACE;
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF JUSTICE, BRING FORTH THE CITY OF GOD! 

4.We are blessed and a pilgrim people: bound for the reign of God!
Love our journey and love our homeland: love is the City of God!

BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF MERCY, 
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF PEACE;
BRING FORTH THE REIGN OF JUSTICE, BRING FORTH THE CITY OF GOD! 

Gospel: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

Sermon: Affirmed by Love

#881 NCH The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. 

I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, 
who was conceived by the Holy spirit, born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; 
He ascended into heaven, He is seated at the right hand of the Father,
and He will come to judge the living and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.  AMEN 

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer
“Our Father…”. 

Announcements

• un-decorating after worship today
• next sunday - all church meeting 

Sending and Blessing 

#539 NCH Won’t You Let me Be your Servant?

Richard Gillard, 1977; alt.

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 travelers on the road;
We are here to help each other go the mile and bear the load. 

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

I will weep when you are weeping; when you laugh, I’ll laugh with you
I will share your joy and sorrow till we’ve seen this journey through. 

When we sing to God in heaven we shall find such harmony,
Born of all we’ve known together of Christ’s love and agony. 

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. 

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 January 12, 2025

On-Line Worship 01/05/25

Order of Worship
Second Sunday after Christmas/Epiphany
January 05, 2025

Prelude:  Bob Gorniac 

• Lover of Us All

1988 by Dan Schutte,North American
Liturgy Resources, One License A 721 722

• #128 NCH In The Bleak Mid Winter

Christina G. Rossetti, 1872,
Tune: CRANHAM. Irrigation Gustav Holst, 1906
Public Domain

Welcome 

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 Offering (Ephesians 1:3-4)

#780 NCH DOXOLOGY

PRAYER OF DEDICATION
We thank you for all of the spiritual and material gifts that you have given us, O Lord. We dedicate these gifts to you in gratitude and in hope for the day where all will be fed, all will be sheltered, and all will be safe. That is the work of Christmas. 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 on line.

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’ church. 

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

Call to worship (Jeremiah 31) 

We Three Kings 

We three kings of Orient are
Author: John H. Hopkins (1857)
Tune: KINGS OF ORIENT

1 We three kings of Orient are; bearing gifts we traverse afar,
field and fountain, moor and mountain, following yonder star. 

O STAR OF WONDER, STAR OF LIGHT, STAR WITH ROYAL BEAUTY BRIGHT,
WESTWARD LEADING, STILL PROCEEDING, GUDE US TO THY PERFECT LIGHT.

2 Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, gold I bring to crown him again,
King forever, ceasing never, over us all to reign. [Refrain]

O STAR OF WONDER, STAR OF LIGHT, STAR WITH ROYAL BEAUTY BRIGHT,
WESTWARD LEADING, STILL PROCEEDING, GUDE US TO THY PERFECT LIGHT. 

3 Frankincense to offer have I; incense owns a Deity nigh;
prayer and praising, voices raising, worshiping God on high. [Refrain]

O STAR OF WONDER, STAR OF LIGHT, STAR WITH ROYAL BEAUTY BRIGHT,
WESTWARD LEADING, STILL PROCEEDING, GUDE US TO THY PERFECT LIGHT. 

4 Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume breathes a life of gathering gloom;
sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, sealed in the stone-cold tomb. [Refrain]

O STAR OF WONDER, STAR OF LIGHT, STAR WITH ROYAL BEAUTY BRIGHT,
WESTWARD LEADING, STILL PROCEEDING, GUDE US TO THY PERFECT LIGHT.

5 Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice:
Alleluia, Alleluia, sounds through the earth and skies. [Refrain]

O STAR OF WONDER, STAR OF LIGHT, STAR WITH ROYAL BEAUTY BRIGHT,
WESTWARD LEADING, STILL PROCEEDING, GUDE US TO THY PERFECT LIGHT.

Call to Confession (Wisdom of Solomon 10:15-16) 

Prayer of Confession (Wisdom of Solomon 10:15-16)
Redeem your world, O Lord. We lament the destruction caused by worldly rulers extending their power through force. We lament the ways that the tendrils of oppression have taken hold among your people, your creation. 

Redeem your people, O Lord. Too often, we fail to act in ways that reflect your love. Too often, we fail to speak your truth. 

When it is easier for us to do nothing, help us act. When it is easier for us to say nothing, give us words to speak. Turn us away from sin, liberate us from the grasp of oppression, and lead us towards new life in Christ. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon (John 1:16) 

Prayer for illumination (John 1:1-5)
In the beginning was the Word. And the Word was with God and theWord was God. All things came into being through Him. 

As we read and reflect on your Scriptures, O Lord, we pray that your Spirit will move among us so that we might hear your Word, your light shining in the darkness. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Scripture readings proclaimed by Darlene Furtaw

• Isaiah 60:1-6

• Ephesians 1:3-14 

#159 NCH As with Gladness Those of Old  vs 1, 2, 4

William C. Dix, 1861; alt Public Domain

As with gladness those of old did the guiding star behold;
As with joy they hailed its light, leading onward, beaming bright;
So, true Morning Star, may we ever more your splendor see. 

As with joyful steps they sped to that low lying manger bed,
There to bend the knee before One whom heaven and earth adore;
So may we with willing feet ever seek your mercy seat. 

Holy Jesus, every day keeps in the oar-row way;
And when mortal things are past, bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide, where no clouds your glory hide.

Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12

Sermon: Another Road

Affirmation of Faith
“In Jesus of Nazareth, true humanity was realized once for all. Jesus, a Palestinian Jew, lived among his own people and shared their needs, temptations, joys, and sorrows. 

He expressed the love of God in word and deed and became a brother to all kinds of sinful men and women. But his complete obedience led him into conflict with his people. 

His life and teaching judged their goodness, religious aspirations, and national hopes.  Many rejected him and demanded his death. 

In giving himself freely for them, he took upon himself the judgment under which everyone stands convicted. God raised him from the dead, vindicating him as Messiah and Lord.

The victim of sin became victor, and won the victory over sin and death for all.”

Prayers of the people (Jeremiah 31:9) 

 “with weeping they shall come” “and with consolations I will lead them back.” 

Before going to God in prayer for creation, for the church, for all gathered here, and for all of our neighbors near and far, it is appropriate to ask for specific requests from those gathered to be included below. The refrain to today’s prayers of the people is responsive and drawn from Jeremiah 31:9. The worship leader will say “with weeping they shall come” and all gathered will respond “and with consolations I will lead them back.”

You created the earth and all that is in it, O Lord, and declared it good. And yet your creation is in pain. As we face the ecological challenges of the contemporary world, we pray that you turn us towards our call of being good stewards of your creation.
One: With weeping they shall come
All: and with consolations I will lead them back. 

You continue to gather your children as your church and in churches. And yet many of us are navigating the reality that we cannot do what we once could. Many of us are struggling to answer your call to feed, to shelter and to serve. Many churches are pursuing goals that are at odds with this call. Turn your church and your churches towards our call to serve, guiding us by the power of your Holy Spirit.
One: With weeping they shall come
All: and with consolations I will lead them back. 

Many of us are sick. Many of us are carrying heavy burdens. Many of us miss someone. Many of us are tired.
(Include specific requests from your congregation or a moment of silence for specific prayers that will go unvoiced.)
Be with the caretakers and those being cared for. Bring comfort and healing and peace. Surround us with a community to lean on and help us lift up others as we’re able.
One: With weeping they shall come
All: and with consolations I will lead them back. 

There are those among us who exert great influence. May you guide leaders of people and leaders of nations to lead with mercy and grace and humility. Be with those who are suffering under unjust and oppressive conditions. May we all continue to join your liberating work.
One: With weeping they shall come
All: and with consolations I will lead them back. 

Messiah, Lord, we pray for the families of the injured and dead because of the horrific New Year’s Day attach in New Orleans; we pray for Yvonne, Tom, Mary Rita, Sandy, John G, ...

We pray for those who entered marriage over the Christmas holiday:  for Carolyn and

We pray, O Lord, that you will continue to respond to our deep need for you, to repair our broken systems, to redeem your ailing world and restore our faith in your promise that our world will move towards peace.

We ask all this in the name of your Son, the Light of the world, Jesus Christ, who cares for us, who calls us, and who teaches us. 

Communion Rite 

#332 NCH As We Gather at Your Table vs. 1

Words Copyright byCarl P. Da w,Jr. 1989 TUNE: Beach Spring
One License A 721 722

(1)As we gather at your table. as we listen to your word,
help us know, O God, your presence; let our hearts and minds be stirred.

Nourish us with sacred story till we claim it as our own;
teach us through this holy banquet how to make Love’s victory known.

The Peace of the Lord Be with You:
And Also with You.
Lift Up your Hears:
We Lift Them Up to the Lord. 

Let Us Give Thanks to our God:
It is Right to Give God Our Thanks and Praise

Take - Break - Bless

The Lord’s Prayer

All is Ready!  Receive!

~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~

#332 NCH As We Gather at Your Table vs 2

(2) Gracious Spirit, help us summon other guests to share that feast
where triumphant Love will welcome those who had been last and least. 

There no more will envy bind us nor will pride our peace destroy,
as we join with saints and angels to repeat the sounding joy. 

#848 NCH Prayer after Communion
Gracious and loving God, you have made us one in the body of Christ, and nourished us at your table with holy food and drink.  

Now send us forth to be your people in the world.  Grant us strength to persevere in resisting evil, and to proclaim in all we say and do your Good News in Christ Jesus our savior.  Amen. 

Sending & Blessing (John 1:12)
Children of God, go forth into the world and join God’s work. 

May the God of all times and places continue to guide you here and now; may the Holy Spirit that swept over the waters of creation continue to give you strength; and may the light of Christ, through who all things came into being, continue to shine through each of you until we are all gathered together again. Go in peace. 

#132 NCH Joy to the World
Joy to the world! the Lord is come: let earth its praises bring;
Let every heart prepare Christ room, and heaven and nature sing,
and heaven and nature sing, and heaven, and heaven an nature sing.

Joy to the earth! the Savior reigns! Let all their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains repeat the sounding joy,
repeat the sounding joy, repeat, repeat the sounding joy. 

Christ rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove
The glories of God’s righteousness and wonders of God’s love,
and wonders of God’s love, and wonders, wonders of God’s love.

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 January 05, 2025

On-Line Worship 12/29/24

Order of Worship
1st Sunday of Christmas
December 29, 2024

Prelude:  by Bob Gorniac:  

Welcome

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 Offering (Hebrews 13:15)

#780 NCH DOXOLOGY (All)

PRAYER OF DEDICATION (All)
Good and gracious God, in this season during which we have given and received so many gifts, we thank you for the greatest gift of all, your Son Jesus Christ. In response to your love and mercy, we bring our tithes and offerings to you. Bless them and us, so our gifts may be multiplied and our hearts may be generous as we seek to do good and share what we have; through Jesus Christ our Savior. 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’ church. 

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

#150 NCH Sing a Different Song

The Iona community,, 1987
John J. Bell, G.I.A. Publication
One License A 721 722

Sing a different song now Christmas is here, 
sing a song of people knowing God’s near:
The Messiah is born in the face of our scorn, 
sing a different song to welcome and warn. 

Sing a different shout now Christmas is here, 
shout a shout of joy and genuine cheer:
Fill the earth and the sky with the news from on high,
shout a different shout that all may come by. 

Love a different love now Christmas is here, 
love without condition, love without fear:
With the humble and poor, with the shy and unsure, 
love a different love.  Let Christ be the cure!

Dance a different dance now Christmas is here,
dance a dance of war on suffering and fear:
Peace and justice are one, in the light of the sun.
Dance a different dance.  God’s reign has begun! 

Call to Worship 

O Come, All Ye faithful (#133 Christmas Booklet) #135 NCH 

Call to Confession (Acts 3:19) 

Prayer of Confession
Holy and merciful God, we confess we neglect to seek your wisdom for our lives. Instead, we think more highly of ourselves and our own knowledge, choosing to go our own way in this world. Lord, have mercy. 

We let the cares and concerns of this world crowd out the promise of your Word, that you are with us always. Christ, have mercy. 

We confess we face the future with uncertainty and misgivings. Help us put our trust in you so we may live faithful and obedient lives, as we depend on the wisdom of your Holy Spirit and the love of Christ to shape our lives and actions. Lord, have mercy. Amen. 

Assurance of Pardon 

Hark the Herald Angels Sing (#143 Christmas Song Booklet) NCH #144

Prayer for illumination
God of Wisdom, as the Scriptures teach us, truly it is the spirit in a mortal, the breath of the Almighty, that makes for understanding.

Send your Holy Spirit upon us as we hear your Word read and proclaimed, that we may be encouraged and strengthened to live lives worthy of our calling as your people. Amen. 

Scripture readings

• 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26
• Colossians 3:12-17

#765 NCH Alleluia vs. 1 and 4

Text and music: Jerry Sinclair, 1972, NCH.
One License  A 721 722

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

I will praise you, alleluia . . .

Gospel

• Luke 2:41-52

Sermon: Searching, Seeking, Finding!

Affirmation of Faith 

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer . . .
We offer these and all of our prayers in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior, who taught us to pray, “Our Father …” 

ANOUNCEMENTS

• January 11, 2nd Saturday of Month, Euchre
• January 19, 3rd Sunday of Month ALL CHURCH MEETING

Sending & Blessing
May you be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God. 

May grace and peace be yours in abundance in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. Amen. 

Joy To the world (#145 Christmas Song booklet) NCH #132

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 December 29

On-Line Worship 12/22/24

Order of Worship
4th Sunday of Advent
December 22, 2024

Prelude:  Performed by Bob Gorniac

• Lover of Us All

1988 by Dan Schutte,North American
Liturgy Resources, One License A 721 722

• #128 NCH In The Bleak Mid Winter 

Christina G. Rossetti, 1872,
Tune: CRANHAM. Irrigation Gustav Holst, 1906
Public Domain

Welcome

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 Offering

DOXOLOGY #780 NCH (All)

PRAYER FOR DEDICATION (All)
Holy God, with Mary we seek to magnify you in our worship and in our deeds.  Accept these gifts and bless them for Christ’s ministry. 

May they lift the lowly and fill the hungry. May they reveal your glory present with us today and still yet to come. Amen.

Greeting:  #829 NCH 

Advent Wreath Lighting
Light Advent Wreath [Candle #4] 

Holy Darkness vs. 1

Music/Lyrics: Dan L. Schutte, NALR,
North American Liturgy Resources, 1988, 1989
One License A721 722

HOLY DARKNESS, BLESSED NIGHT
HEAVEN’S ANSWER HIDDEN FROM MY SIGHT
AS WE AWAIT YOU, O GOD OF SILENCE
WE EMBRACE YOUR HOLY NIGHT 

I have tried you in fires of affliction
I have taught your soul to grieve
In the barren soil of your loneliness
There will I plant my seed 

HOLY DARKNESS, BLESSED NIGHT
HEAVEN’S ANSWER HIDDEN FROM MY SIGHT
AS WE AWAIT YOU, O GOD OF SILENCE
WE EMBRACE YOUR HOLY NIGHT 

Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Daniel L Schutte
Holy Darkness lyrics © Epoch Universal Publications Inc

Hope Is a Star

Words:  Brian Wren 1985,
Music: Joan Collier Fagg 1987, MOON BEAMS
@1989 HopePublishing Company/Voices United

HOPE is a star that shines in the night, leading us on till the morning is bright.
WHEN GOD IS A CHILD THERE’S JOY IN OUR SONG.
THE LAST SHALL BE FIRST AND THE WEAK SHALL BE STRONG,
AND NONE SHALL BE AFRAID. 

PEACE is a ribbon that circles the earth, giving a promise of safety and worth,
WHEN GOD IS A CHILD THERE’S JOY IN OUR SONG.
THE LAST SHALL BE FIRST AND THE WEAK SHALL BE STRONG,
AND NONE SHALL BE AFRAID.  

JOY is a song that welcomes the dawn, telling the world that the Savior is born.
WHEN GOD IS A CHILD THERE’S JOY IN OUR SONG.
THE LAST SHALL BE FIRST AND THE WEAK SHALL BE STRONG,
AND NONE SHALL BE AFRAID. 

LOVE is a flame that burns in our heart, Jesus has come and will never depart.
WHEN GOD IS A CHILD THERE’S JOY IN OUR SONG.
THE LAST SHALL BE FIRST AND THE WEAK SHALL BE STRONG,
AND NONE SHALL BE AFRAID. 

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’ church. 

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

Call to worship (Luke 1:46)
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
With Mary, our spirits rejoice, and we sing God’s praise.
Let us honor God with our worship this fourth Sunday of Advent. 

#150 NCH Sing a Different Song

The Iona community, 1987
John J. Bell, G.I.A. Publication
One License A 721 722

Sing a different song now Christmas is here, 
sing a song of people knowing God’s near:
The Messiah is born in the face of our scorn, 
sing a different song to welcome and warn.

Sing a different shout now Christmas is here, 
shout a shout of joy and genuine cheer:
Fill the earth and the sky with the news from on high, 
shout a different shout that all may come by. 

Love a different love now Christmas is here,
love without condition, love without fear:
With the humble and poor, with the shy and unsure,
love a different love.  Let Christ be the cure! 

Dance a different dance now Christmas is here,
dance a dance of war on suffering and fear:
Peace and justice are one, in the light of the sun.
Dance a different dance.  God’s reign has begun! 

Call to Confession 

Prayer of Confession
Soon we will celebrate the Prince of Peace, but all are not a at peace. We glorify violence and dismiss the pacifist as weak. 

We dominate and demean turning dialogue into debate. We wage war with enemies and invest in self-defense before giving non-violent strategies a chance. 

Lord, forgive us. Help us work towards your peaceable kin-dom, where swords will be beaten into plowshares and spears into pruning hooks. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon (Micah 5:4-5) 

Prayer for illumination
Open us, Holy One, to your Word and your Way. As we make our final preparations before Christmas, clear our minds  a little so we appreciate this time. Help us approach your Word with awe and wonder, so we may hear the message you intend for us today. Amen. 

Scripture readings proclaimed by Kim Schrote

First reading

• Micah 5:2-5a

Psalm

• Psalm 80:1-7

Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19.

1. Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.
   

Second reading

• Hebrews 10:5-10

#765 NCH Alleluia vs. 1 and 4

Text and music: Jerry sinclair, 1972, NCH.
One License  A 721 722

Alleluia, alléluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
I will praise you, alleluia . . .

Gospel

• Luke 1:39-45, (46-55)

Sermon: 'A Child'

Affirmation of faith 

Prayers of the people and the Lord’s Prayer 

Yellow sheets:
Finally, hear us now, as we pray the prayer Christ taught us
by saying together: “Our Father …”. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• 4:00 Christmas Eve Worship
• Christmas Day Dinner
  • Prep. 9-Noon, Serving until 3:00, after cleanup (any help appreciated)

Sending and Blessing
Magnify God the Creator; Magnify God the Redeemer; Magnify God the Sustainer in your life and the lives of others. 

May God bless you, keep you, and encourage you this Sunday and forever-In the name . . .

#153 NCH Who Would think That what Was Needed

John Bell and Graham Maule,1990
TUNE: SCARLET RIBBONS
arranged by John Bell and others, 1990, Iona Community

Who would think that what was needed to transform and save the earth
might not be a plan or army proud in purpose, proved in worth? 
Who would thank, despite derision, that a child should lead the way?
God surprises earth with heaven, coming here on Christmas Day. 

Shepherds watch and sages wonder, monarchs scorn and angels sing,
such a place as none would reckon hosts a holy, helpless thing. 
Stabled beasts and passing strangers watch a baby laid in hay:
God surprises earth with heaven, coming here on Christmas Day.

Centuries of skill and science span the past from which we move,
yet experience questions whether with such progress we Improve.
In our search for sense and meaning, lest our hopes and hu-mor fray.
God surprises earth with heaven, coming here on Christmas Day.

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 December 22