THE TWENTY FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
SUNDAY OCTOBER 17 WORSHIP
- In Person Sunday, October 17, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, Pastor Elvery's sermon is "Still Upside Down". "Heavenly Perks" 10:30 a.m. - (in-person) on north sidewalk and grass area outside Narthex door.
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for October 17th streaming of live service. Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
PRAYER FOR PEACE
O ache, here!
Deep peace I breathe into you, O weariness, here; Deep peace, a soft white dove to You; Deep peace, a quiet rain to you; Deep peace, an ebbing wave to you! Deep peace, red wind of the east from you; Deep peace, grey wind of the west to You; Deep peace, dark wind of the north from you; Deep peace, blue wind of the south to you! Deep peace, pure red of the flame to you; Deep peace, pure white of the moon to you; Deep peace, pure green of the grass to you; Deep peace, pure brown of the earth to you; Deep peace, pure grey of the dew to you, Deep peace, pure blue of the sky to you! Deep peace of the running wave to you, Deep peace of the flowing air to you, Deep peace of the quiet earth to you, Deep peace of the sleeping stones to you! Deep peace of the Yellow Shepherd to you, Deep peace of the Wandering Shepherdess to you, Deep peace of the Flock of Stars to you, Deep peace from the Son of Peace to you, Deep peace from the heart of Mary to you, And from Briget of the Mantle Deep peace, deep peace! And with the kindness too of the Haughty Father Peace! In the name of the Three who are One, Peace! And by the will of the King of the Elements, Peace! Peace!
PRELUDE ||| Servant Medley ||| Mark Hayes
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP ||| based on Psalm 104
Let my whole being bless the Lord!
Lord our God, how fantastic you are!
You are clothed in glory and grandeur!
You wear light like a robe;
You open the skies like a curtain.
*HYMN 300 ||| We Are One In the Spirit ||| They’ll Know We Are Christians
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION ||| JAY RUKLIC
Gracious God, we admit that we take your grace for granted. Too often, like children at Christmas, we ask for a pony, that which we
want and may not need. We know that you have consistently provided for the needs of your people and the earth. We become so focused on our wants that we fail to see how you work to meet our needs. Help us to see beyond our wants and needs to see your provision, presence and promise.
(silent prayer)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
The good news in Christ is that when we face ourselves and God with the awareness of our need, we are given grace to grow, and courage to continue the journey. Friends, believe the good news of the gospel.
In Jesus Christ we are forgiven. Thanks be to God!
*THE GLORIA
MOMENT WITH OUR CHILDREN ||| Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION ||| JAY RUKLIC
FIRST SCRIPTURE READING ||| Isaiah 53:4-12 ||| CEB
4 It was certainly our sickness that he carried, and our sufferings that he bore, but we thought him afflicted, struck down by God and tormented. 5 He was pierced because of our rebellions and crushed because of our crimes. He bore the punishment that made us whole; by his wounds we are healed. 6 Like sheep we had all wandered away, each going its own way, but the Lord let fall on him all our crimes. 7 He was oppressed and tormented, but didn’t open his mouth. Like a lamb being brought to slaughter, like a ewe silent before her shearers, he didn’t open his mouth. 8 Due to an unjust ruling he was taken away, and his fate—who will think about it? He was eliminated from the land of the living, struck dead because of my people’s rebellion. 9 His grave was among the wicked, his tomb with evildoers though he had done no violence, and had spoken nothing false. 10 But the Lord wanted to crush him and to make him suffer. If his life is offered as
restitution, he will see his offspring; he will enjoy long life. The Lord’s plans will come to fruition through him. 11 After his deep anguish he will see light, and he will be satisfied. Through his knowledge, the righteous one, my servant, will with the great, and he will divide the spoil with the strong, in return for exposing his life to death and being numbered with rebels, though he carried the sin of
many and pleaded on behalf of those who rebelled.
SPECIAL MUSIC ||| Improvisation on "Come Into My Heart, Lord Jesus” ||| Teresa Wilhelmi
SECOND SCRIPTURE READING ||| Mark 10:35-45 ||| CEB
35 James and John, Zebedee’s sons, came to Jesus and said, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” 36 “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. 37 They said, “Allow one of us to sit on your right and the other on your left when you enter your glory.” 38 Jesus replied, “You don’t know what you’re asking! Can you drink the cup I drink or receive the baptism I receive?” 39 “We can,” they
answered. Jesus said, “You will drink the cup I drink and receive the baptism I those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 Now when the other ten disciples heard about this, they became angry with James and John. 42 Jesus called them over and said, “You know that the ones who are considered the rulers by the Gentiles show off their authority over them and their high-ranking officials order them around. 43 But that’s not the way it will be with you. Whoever wants to be great among you will be your servant. 44 Whoever wants to be first among you will be the slave of all, 45 for the Human One didn’t come to be served but rather to serve and to give his life to liberate many people.”
The Word of the Lord
Thanks be to God!
SERMON ||| "Still Upside Down" ||| Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 581 ||| Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service ||| Beach Spring
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH ||| The Barmen Declaration
As Jesus Christ is God’s assurance of the forgiveness of all our sins, so in the same way and with the same seriousness is he also God’s mighty claim upon our whole life. Through him befalls us a joyful deliverance from the godless fetters of this world for a free, grateful service to his creatures.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For
thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS
OFFERTORY ||| I'm Gonna Live So God Can Use Me ||| Gregg Sewell
*DOXOLOGY 606 ||| Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Loving God, who sent your Son, not as Lord over all, but servant of all, see in our humble offerings our willingness and commitment to be like Christ and serve all. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 299 ||| You Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim ||| Hanover
*PRAYER OF BLESSING from St. Patrick
We arise today through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea, Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.
We arise today through God's strength to pilot us;
God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us,
God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us,
God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us,
God's way to lie before us, God's shield to protect us,
God's hosts to save us afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
We arise today
Through the mighty strength of the Lord of creation. Amen.
POSTLUDE ||| Festive Voluntary ||| Robert Lau
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
Worship Liturgist: Jay Ruklic
Ushers: Earl Anker, Laura Dillman, Ray Nielsen, Wanda Nielsen
SCRIPTURES IN WORSHIP – Next Sunday we will be reading Psalm 34:1-8 and Mark 10:46-52.
Pastor Elvery will be on study leave until Monday, October 25 th. He will be participating in a Transitional Ministry Meeting in
Kansas City. Rev. Jane Tuma will be our guest preacher next Sunday, October 24 th.
THE TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
SUNDAY OCTOBER 10 WORSHIP
- In Person Sunday, October 10, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, Pastor Elvery's sermon is "An Eyeful?". "Heavenly Perks" 10:30 a.m. - (in-person) on north sidewalk and grass area outside Narthex door
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here forhttps://www.facebook.com/1stPresHomewood/videos/661150771539408/ October 10th streaming of live service. Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
PRAYER FOR PEACE Scottish Blessing
If there is righteousness in the heart,
there will be beauty in the character.
If there is beauty in the character,
there will be harmony in the home.
If there is harmony in the home,
there will be order in the nation.
If there is order in the nation,
there will be peace in the world.
So let it be.
PRELUDE ||| Saints Bound For Heaven ||| Edward Broughton
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP ||| based on Psalm 19
Heaven is declaring God’s glory;
the sky is proclaiming his handiwork.
One day gushes the news to the next,
and one night informs another what needs to be known.
Of course, there’s no speech, no words—
their voices can’t be heard—
but their sound extends throughout the world;
their words reach the ends of the earth.
*HYMN 687 Our God, Our Help In Ages Past St. Anne
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done
your will, we have broken your laws, we have rebelled against your love. We have not loved our neighbors, and we have refused to hear
the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
(silent prayer)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
The God who created us, created us out of and for love and community. The same God continues to invite us and smooth the path through forgiveness. Jesus told Peter to forgive seventy-seven times because he knew God forgives infinitely more than that. Know and believe the good news.
In Jesus Christ we are forgiven. Thanks be to God!
*THE GLORIA
MOMENT WITH OUR CHILDREN ||| Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WELCOME AND CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
(Instead of passing a pad, we ask that you sign the register in the Narthex as you leave, if you haven’t done so already.)
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
FIRST SCRIPTURE READING ||| Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 ||| CEB
6 Seek the Lord and live, or else God might rush like a fire against the house of Joseph. The fire will burn up Bethel, with no one to put it out. 7 Doom to you who turn justice into poison, and throw righteousness to the ground! 10 They hate the one who judges at the city gate, and they reject the one who speaks the truth. 11 Truly, because you crush the weak, and because you tax their grain, you have built houses of carved stone, but you won’t live in them; you have planted pleasant vineyards, but you won’t drink their wine. 12 I know how many are your crimes, and how numerous are your sins—afflicting the righteous, taking money on the side, turning away the poor who seek help. 13 Therefore, the one who is wise will keep silent in that time; it is an evil time. 14 Seek good and not evil, that you may live; and so the Lord, the God of heavenly forces, will be with you just as you have said. 15 Hate evil, love good, and establish justice at the city gate. Perhaps the Lord God of heavenly forces will be gracious to what is left of Joseph.
SPECIAL MUSIC ||| Jesus Calls Us ||| Lani Smith
SECOND SCRIPTURE READING ||| Mark 10:17-31 ||| CEB
17 As Jesus continued down the road, a man ran up, knelt before him, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to obtain eternal life?” 18 Jesus replied, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except the one God. 19 You know the commandments: Don’t commit murder. Don’t commit adultery. Don’t steal. Don’t give false testimony. Don’t cheat. Honor your father and mother.” 20 “Teacher,” he responded, “I’ve kept all of these things since I was a boy.” 21 Jesus looked at him carefully and loved him. He said, “You are lacking one thing. Go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor. Then you will have treasure in heaven. And come, follow me.” 22 But the man was dismayed at this statement and went away saddened, because he had many possessions. 23 Looking around, Jesus said to his disciples, “It will be very hard for the wealthy to enter
God’s kingdom!” 24 His words startled the disciples, so Jesus told them again, “Children, it’s difficult to enter God’s kingdom! 25 It’s easier for a camel to squeeze through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter God’s kingdom.” 26 They were shocked even more and said to each other, “Then who can be saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them carefully and said, “It’s impossible with human beings, but not with God. All things are possible for God.” 28 Peter said to him, “Look, we’ve left everything and followed you.” 29 Jesus said, “I assure you that anyone who has left house, brothers, sisters, mother, father, children, or farms because of me and because of the good news 30 will receive one hundred times as much now in this life—houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and farms (with harassment)—and in the coming age, eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last. And many who are last will be first.”
The Word of the Lord
Thanks be to God!
SERMON ||| "An Eyeful?" ||| Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 757 ||| Today We All Are Called to Be Disciples ||| Kingsfold
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH ||| The Westminster Shorter Catechism
Q. 74. What is required in the Eighth Commandment?
A. The Eighth Commandment requireth the lawful procuring and furthering
the wealth and outward estate of ourselves and others.
Q. 75. What is forbidden in the Eighth Commandment?
A. The Eighth Commandment forbiddeth whatsoever doth, or may, unjustly
hinder our own, or our neighbor’s, wealth or outward estate.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For
thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS ||| OFFERTORY ||| Will You Come and Follow Me? ||| C.E.Walz
*DOXOLOGY 606 Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Lord, see in these portions of our wealth that we offer, our admission that our wealth, when all is said and done comes from and belong to
you. We return to you that which is yours. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 741 ||| Guide My Feet Guide My Feet
*PRAYER OF BLESSING from St. Patrick
We arise today through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea, Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.
We arise today through God's strength to pilot us;
God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us,
God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us,
God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us,
God's way to lie before us, God's shield to protect us,
God's hosts to save us afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
We arise today
Through the mighty strength of the Lord of creation. Amen.
POSTLUDE ||| Ye Servants of God ||| Douglas Wagner
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
Flowers given by Bob James in memory of his beloved wife, Jonna.
Worship Liturgist: Charlene Hansen
Usher: Phil Dillman
SCRIPTURES IN WORSHIP – Next Sunday we will be reading Isaiah 53:4-12 and Mark 10:35-45.
The nineteenth sunday after pentecost
Sunday october 3
Worship
- In Person Sunday, October 3, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, Pastor Elvery's sermon is "Communion, Connection and Inclusion". Today we also celebrate Communion. "Heavenly Perks" fellowship begins in the Aki Garden at 10:30 am.
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for the October 3rd streaming of live service. If participating in today's Communion please have your juice and bread ready.
- Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
(BULLETIN BELOW)
virtual heavenly perks will be from 12 noon to 2 pm (use picture link below)
gIVE -- electronically
to contribute (link:: a monetary offering) to first presbyterian church of homewood or
you may also contribute by mail to:
First Presbyterian Church of Homewood
P.O. BOX 1519
Homewood IL 60430
Next Sunday we will be reading: Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 and Mark 10:17-31.
bulletin for October 3 2021
PRAYER FOR PEACE
Did I offer peace today? Did I bring a smile to someone’s face? Did I offer words of healing? Did I let go of my anger and resentment? Did I forgive? Did I love? These are the real questions. I must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits, here in this world and the life to come. ~Henri Nouwen
PRELUDE ||| We Are Marching In the Light of God ||| John Behnke
(Phil Dillman, Drum; Mary Ann Wenzelman, Organ)
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP ||| based on Luke 13 & Isaiah 42
People will come from east and west, north and south,
and sit down to eat in God’s kingdom.
Look! Those who are last will be first
and those who are first will be last.”
The Lord, has called us for a good reason.
The Lord will grasp our hand and guard us,
and give us as a covenant to the people,
as a light to the nations,
to open blind eyes,
to lead the prisoners from prison,
and those who sit in darkness from the dungeon.
*HYMN ||| Tell Me the Stories of Jesus Stories of Jesus ||| (United Methodist Hymnal #277)
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Almighty God, you love us, but we have not loved you. You call, but we have not listened. We walk away from neighbors in need, wrapped in our own concerns. We condone evil, prejudice, warfare, and greed. God of grace, help us to admit our sin, so that as you come to us in mercy, we may repent, turn to you, and receive forgiveness.
(silent prayer)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
Hear the good news! Who is in a position to condemn? Only Christ, and Christ died for us, Christ rose for us, Christ reigns in power for us, Christ prays for us. Anyone who is in Christ is a new creation. The old life has gone; a new life has begun. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven. Thanks be to God!
*THE GLORIA
MOMENT WITH OUR CHILDREN ||| Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WELCOME AND CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
(Instead of passing a pad, we ask that you sign the register in the Narthex as you leave, if you haven’t done so already.)
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
FIRST SCRIPTURE READING ||| Genesis 2:18-24 ||| CEB
18 Then the Lord God said, “It’s not good that the human is alone. I will make him a helper that is perfect for him.” 19 So the Lord God formed from the fertile land all the wild animals and all the birds in the sky and brought them to the human to see what he would name them. The human gave each living being its name. 20 The human named all the livestock, all the birds in the sky, and all the wild animals.
But a helper perfect for him was nowhere to be found. 21 So the Lord God put the human into a deep and heavy sleep, and took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh over it. 22 With the rib taken from the human, the Lord God fashioned a woman and brought her to the human being. 23 The human said, “This one finally is bone from my bones and flesh from my flesh. She will be called a woman because from a man she was taken.” 24 This is the reason that a man leaves his father and mother and embraces his wife, and they become one flesh.
SPECIAL MUSIC Two Variations on "Bread of the World" ||| Robert Lau
SECOND SCRIPTURE READING ||| Mark 10:2-16 ||| CEB
2 Some Pharisees came and, trying to test him, they asked, “Does the Law allow a man to divorce his wife?” 3 Jesus answered, “What did Moses command you?”
4 They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a divorce certificate and to divorce his wife.” 5 Jesus said to them, “He wrote this commandment for you because of your unyielding hearts. 6 At the beginning of creation, God made them male and female
7 Because of this, a man should leave his father and mother and be joined together with his wife, 8 and the two will be one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. 9 Therefore, humans must not pull apart what God has put together.” 10 Inside the house, the disciples asked him again about this. 11 He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; 12 and if a wife divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.” 13 People were bringing children to Jesus so that he would bless them. But the disciples scolded them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he grew angry and said to them, “Allow the children to come to me. Don’t forbid them, because God’s kingdom belongs to people like these children. 15 I assure you that whoever doesn’t welcome God’s kingdom like a child will never enter it.” 16 Then he hugged the children and blessed them.
The Word of the Lord
Thanks be to God!
SERMON ||| "Communion, Connection and Inclusion" ||| Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 530 ||| One Bread, One Body One Bread, One Body
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH ||| The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; 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, 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For
thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS ||| OFFERTORY ||| In Memory of His Mercy ||| Ruth Elaine Schram
*DOXOLOGY ||| 606 Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
See in our gifts our loyalty to you. We commit ourselves to both show forth and work for your kingdom to come in our midst and around the world. Amen.
SEALING OF THE WORD
INVITATION TO THE LORD’S TABLE
GREAT PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them up to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
SHARING OF THE MEAL
All who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord, regardless of age or denomination, are invited to partake in the Sacrament of Communion. Please come forward down the side aisle. Take a piece of the bread and a cup and eat. Please dispose of the cups in the waste baskets by the table. We have gluten free bread available. Return to your seat by the center aisle.
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
God of grace, you renew us at your table with the bread of life. May this food strengthen us in love and help us to serve you in each other.
We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 310 ||| I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord ||| St. Thomas
*PRAYER OF BLESSING from St. Patrick
We arise today through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea, Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.
We arise today through God's strength to pilot us;
God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us,
God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us,
God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us,
God's way to lie before us, God's shield to protect us,
God's hosts to save us afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
We arise today
Through the mighty strength of the Lord of creation. Amen.
POSTLUDE ||| Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ ||| John Behnke
(Phil Dillman, Drum; Mary Ann Wenzelman, Organ)
Some people choose to be seated to listen to the postlude. If you need to leave, the pastor and worship leader are glad to greet you at the entrance of the sanctuary.
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord! Thanks be to God!
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
Worship Liturgist: Eleanor Steiner Usher: Phil Dillman
THE PEACE & GLOBAL WITNESS OFFERING will be received today. This offering supports peacemaking and evangelism efforts regionally and around theworld. Our congregation retains 25% for this type of mission. The Session has designated our portion to be sent to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for those affected by Hurricane Ida. If we all do a little, it adds up to a lot! Please give generously. Make check payable to First Presbyterian Church of Homewood and indicate on the memo line “Peace & Global Witness.” See enclosed envelope and insert.
The eighteenth sunday after pentecost
Sunday September 26
Worship
- In Person Sunday, September 26, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, Pastor Elvery's sermon is "Brave Heart?".
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for the September 26 streaming of live service. (LIVE now! 11:01)
- Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
(BULLETIN BELOW)
Continue Reading
The seventeenth sunday after pentecost
Sunday September 19
Worship
- In Person Sunday, September 19, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, our sermon is "It's Not You!" Mike Welf, Moderator of the Presbytery of Chicago, Elder at First Presbyterian Chicago Heights and Chaplain for the Chicago Heights Fire Department, will be our preacher.
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for the September 19 streaming of live service. (refresh if necessary)
- Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience. Contact Kathie Hazlett if you are having issues.
(BULLETIN BELOW)
virtual heavenly perks will be from 12 noon to 2 pm (use picture link below)
gIVE -- electronically
to contribute (link:: a monetary offering) to first presbyterian church of homewood or
you may also contribute by mail to:
First Presbyterian Church of Homewood
P.O. BOX 1519
Homewood IL 60430
bulletin for September 19 2021
PRAYER FOR PEACE
Scottish Blessing
If there is righteousness in the heart,
there will be beauty in the character.
If there is beauty in the character,
there will be harmony in the home.
If there is harmony in the home,
there will be order in the nation.
If there is order in the nation,
there will be peace in the world.
So let it be.
PRELUDE | | He Leadeth Me | | Terry Kirkland
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP | | based on Psalm 100
Shout triumphantly to the Lord, all the earth!
Serve the Lord with celebration!
Come before him with shouts of joy!
Know that the Lord is God—
he made us; we belong to him.
We are his people,
the sheep of his own pasture.
Enter his gates with thanks;
enter his courtyards with praise!
Thank him! Bless his name!
Because the Lord is good,
his loyal love lasts forever;
his faithfulness lasts generation after generation.
*HYMN 722 | | Lord, Speak to Me That I May Speak | | Canonbury
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Gracious God, we admit that we take your grace for granted. Too often, like children at Christmas, we ask for a pony, that which we want and may not need. We know that you have consistently provided for the needs of your people and the earth. We become so focused on our wants that we fail to see how you work to meet our needs. Help us to see beyond our wants and needs to see your provision presence and promise.
(time of silent confession)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
The good news in Christ is that when we face ourselves and God with the awareness of our need, we are given grace to grow, and courage to continue the journey.
Friends, believe the good news of the gospel.
In Jesus Christ we are forgiven! Thanks be to God!
*THE GLORIA
WELCOME AND CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
(Instead of passing a pad, we ask that you sign the register in the Narthex as you leave, if you haven’t done so already.)
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
FIRST SCRIPTURE READING | | James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a NRSV
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be boastful and false to the truth. 15 Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, devilish. 16 For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and wickedness of every kind. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. 18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace. 4 Those conflicts and disputes among you, where do they come from? Do they not come from your cravings that are at war within you? 2 You want something and do not have it; so you commit murder. And you covet[b] something and cannot obtain it; so you engage in disputes and conflicts. You do not have, because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, in order to spend what you get on your pleasures.
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.
SPECIAL MUSIC | | Open My Eyes That I May See | | Michael Wilson
GOSPEL SCRIPTURE READING | | Mark 9:30-37 | | NRSV
30 They went on from there and passed through Galilee. He did not want anyone to know it; 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of Man is to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and three days after being killed, he will rise again.” 32 But they did not understand what he was saying and were afraid to ask him. 33 Then they came to Capernaum; and when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” 34 But they were silent, for on the way they had argued with one another who was the greatest. 35 He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” 36 Then he took a little child and put it among them; and taking it in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.”
The Word of the Lord
Thanks be to God!
SERMON | | " It’s Not You!" | | Chaplain Mike Welf
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 188 | | Jesus Loves Me! Jesus Loves Me
*AFFIRMATION | | The Confession of 1967
9.15 God’s sovereign love is a mystery beyond the reach of the human mind. Human thought ascribes to God superlatives of power, wisdom, and goodness. But God reveals divine love in Jesus Christ by showing power in the form of a servant, wisdom in the folly of the cross, and goodness in receiving sinful men and women. The power of God’s love in Christ to transform the world discloses that the Redeemer is the Lord and Creator who made all things to serve the purpose of God’s love.
9.16 God has created the world of space and time to be the sphere of God’s dealings with humankind. In its beauty and vastness, sublimity and awfulness, order and disorder, the world reflects to the eye of faith the majesty and mystery of its Creator.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS
OFFERTORY | | Children's Song Medley | | Mark Hayes
*DOXOLOGY | | 606 Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
God who calls us in perfect love, we respond in our imperfect ways as we offer not only our wealth but also our energy and imagination. Take them and use them to further your kingdom on earth. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 839 | | Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine | | Assurance
*PRAYER OF BLESSING | | from St. Patrick
We arise today through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea, Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.
We arise today through God's strength to pilot us;
God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us,
God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us,
God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us,
God's way to lie before us, God's shield to protect us,
God's hosts to save us afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
We arise today
Through the mighty strength of the Lord of creation. Amen.
POSTLUDE | | Psalm 19 | | Benedetto Marcello
Some people choose to be seated to listen to the postlude. If you need to leave,
the pastor and worship leader are glad to greet you at the entrance of the sanctuary.
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord! Thanks be to God!
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
Worship Liturgist: Rod Dunlap
Usher: Laura Dillman
The sixteenth sunday after pentecost
Sunday September 12
Worship
- In Person Sunday, September 12, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, Pastor Elvery's sermon is "Who'd Have Thought It".
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for the September 12 streaming of live service. (posted 11:01)
- Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
- Next Sunday, Mike Welf, Moderator of the Presbytery of Chicago, Elder at First Presbyterian Chicago Heights and Chaplain for the Chicago Heights Fire Department, will be our preacher.
(BULLETIN BELOW)
virtual heavenly perks will be from 12 noon to 2 pm (use picture link below)
gIVE -- electronically
to contribute (link:: a monetary offering) to first presbyterian church of homewood or
you may also contribute by mail to:
First Presbyterian Church of Homewood
P.O. BOX 1519
Homewood IL 60430
bulletin for September 12 2021
PRAYER FOR PEACE
Peace Prayer of Saint Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
PRELUDE | The Kingsfold Trumpet | Alfred V. Fedak
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP | based on Psalm 19:1-4
Heaven is declaring God’s glory;
the sky is proclaiming his handiwork.
One day gushes the news to the next,
and one night informs another what needs to be known.
Of course, there’s no speech, no words—
their voices can’t be heard—
but their sound[a] extends throughout the world;
their words reach the ends of the earth.
*HYMN 459 | O Word of God Incarnate Munich
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Loving God, who knows and loves us, we admit that we get tired of trying to be “spiritual adults”. Keeping our hearts and minds open to you, trying to discern what you would have us to do and whom we should call as a pastor, and finding hope in tiresome times takes a lot of effort. Help us to open our minds and lives enough to find your rest, understanding and forgiveness.
(silent prayer)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
The good news is that Christ calls us to new life and enables us to begin again and again and again and again. Friends, believe the good news of the gospel.
In Jesus Christ we are forgiven!
*THE GLORIA
MOMENT WITH OUR CHILDREN | Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WELCOME AND CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
(Instead of passing a pad, we ask that you sign the register in the Narthex as you leave, if you haven’t done so already.)
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
FIRST SCRIPTURE READING | Proverbs 1:20-33 CEB
20Wisdom shouts in the street; in the public square she raises her voice. 21Above the noisy crowd, she calls out. At the entrances of the city gates, she has her say: 22“How long will you clueless people love your naïveté, mockers hold their mocking dear, and fools hate knowledge? 23You should respond when I correct you. Look, I’ll pour out my spirit on you. I’ll reveal my words to you. 24I invited you, but you rejected me; I stretched out my hand to you, but you paid no attention. 25You ignored all my advice, and you didn’t want me to correct you. 26So I’ll laugh at your disaster; I’ll make fun of you when dread comes over you, 27when terror hits you like a hurricane, and your disaster comes in like a tornado, when distress and oppression overcome you. 28Then they will call me, but I won’t answer; they will seek me, but won’t find me 29because they hated knowledge and didn’t choose the fear of the Lord. 30They didn’t want my advice; they rejected all my corrections. 31They will eat from the fruit of their way, and they’ll be full of their own schemes. 32The immature will die because they turn away; smugness will destroy fools. 33Those who obey me will dwell securely, untroubled by the dread of harm.”
SPECIAL MUSIC Morning Has Broken Lani Smith
SECOND SCRIPTURE READING | Mark 8:27-38 CEB
27Jesus and his disciples went into the villages near Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28They told him, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, and still others one of the prophets.” 29He asked them, “And what about you? Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ.” 30Jesus ordered them not to tell anyone about him. 31Then Jesus began to teach his disciples: “The Human One[a] must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and the legal experts, and be killed, and then, after three days, rise from the dead.” 32He said this plainly. But Peter took hold of Jesus and, scolding him, began to correct him. 33Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, then sternly corrected Peter: “Get behind me, Satan. You are not thinking God’s thoughts but human thoughts.” 34After calling the crowd together with his disciples, Jesus said to them, “All who want to come after me must say no to themselves, take up their cross, and follow me. 35All who want to save their lives will lose them. But all who lose their lives because of me and because of the good news will save them. 36Why would people gain the whole world but lose their lives? 37What will people give in exchange for their lives? 38Whoever is ashamed of me and my words in this unfaithful and sinful generation, the Human One will be ashamed of that person when he comes in the Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
The Word of the Lord
Thanks be to God!
SERMON | "Who’d Have Thought It' | Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 707 | Take Thou Our Minds, Dear Lord | Hall
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH | The Westminster Confession of Faith | 6.112
6.112 1. The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty over all; is good, and doeth good unto all; and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the might. But the acceptable way of worshipping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshipped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS
OFFERTORY | Be Thou My Vision | Lloyd Larson
*DOXOLOGY | 606 Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
We show you that we heed your wisdom as we bring our offerings to you. We commit ourselves to showing your way in a world that has lost its way. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 826 | Lift High the Cross Crucifer
*PRAYER OF BLESSING from St. Patrick
We arise today through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea, Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.
We arise today through God's strength to pilot us;
God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us,
God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us,
God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us,
God's way to lie before us, God's shield to protect us,
God's hosts to save us afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
We arise today
Through the mighty strength of the Lord of creation. Amen.
POSTLUDE | Lord, Dismiss Us With Thy Blessing Douglas E. Wagner
Some people choose to be seated to listen to the postlude. If you need to leave,
the pastor and worship leader are glad to greet you at the entrance of the sanctuary.
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord! Thanks be to God!
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
Worship Liturgist: Paul Gerrish
Ushers: Bob James, Charlene Hansen, Eleanor Steiner
Next Sunday, Mike Welf, Moderator of the Presbytery of Chicago, Elder at First Presbyterian Chicago Heights and Chaplain for the Chicago Heights Fire Department, will be our preacher.
Worship
- In Person Sunday, September 5, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, Pastor Elvery's sermon is "Can You Hear Me Now?".
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for the September 5 streaming of live service. (Please click the link again. It had to be reloaded)
- Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
(BULLETIN BELOW)
virtual heavenly perks will be from 12 noon to 2 pm (use picture link below)
gIVE -- electronically
to contribute (link:: a monetary offering) to first presbyterian church of homewood or
you may also contribute by mail to:
First Presbyterian Church of Homewood
P.O. BOX 1519
Homewood IL 60430
NEXT TIME: Readings for next week: Proverbs 1:20-33 and Mark 8:27-38.
BULLETIN FOR SEPTEMBER 5 2021
PRELUDE | Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring | J.S. Bach
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP based on Psalm 146:6-9
God: the maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them,
God: who is faithful forever, who gives justice to people who are oppressed, who gives bread to people who are starving!
The LORD: who frees prisoners.
The LORD: who makes the blind see.
The LORD: who straightens up those who are bent low.
The LORD: who loves the righteous.
The LORD: who protects immigrants, who helps orphans and widows, but who makes the way of the wicked twist and turn!
*HYMN 610 | O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing | Azmon
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Truth about ourselves
Almighty God, you love us, but we have not loved you. You call, but we have not listened. We walk away from neighbors in need, wrapped in our own concerns. We condone evil, prejudice, warfare, and greed. God of grace, help us to admit our sin, so that as you come to us in mercy, we may repent, turn to you, and receive forgiveness.
(time of silent confession)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
Friends, believe the good news of the gospel:
In Jesus Christ we are forgiven. Thanks be to God!
*THE GLORIA
MOMENT WITH OUR CHILDREN | Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WELCOME AND CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
(Instead of passing a pad, we ask that you sign the register in the Narthex as you leave, if you haven’t done so already.)
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
FIRST SCRIPTURE READING | Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 | CEB A good reputation is better than much wealth; high esteem is better than silver and gold. 2 The rich and the poor have this in common: the LORD made them both. 8 Those who sow injustice will harvest evil; the rod of their fury will come to an end. 9 Happy are generous people, because they give some of their food to the poor. 22 Don’t steal from the poor, because they are poor. Don’t oppress the needy in the gate. 23 The LORD will take up their case and press the life out of those who oppress them.
SPECIAL MUSIC | Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee Dorothy Wells
SECOND SCRIPTURE READING | Mark 7:24-37 | CEB
24 Jesus left that place and went into the region of Tyre. He didn’t want anyone to know that he had entered a house, but he couldn’t hide. 25 In fact, a woman whose young daughter was possessed by an unclean spirit heard about him right away. She came and fell at his feet. 26 The woman was Greek, Syrophoenician by birth. She begged Jesus to throw the demon out of her daughter. 27 He responded, “The children have to be fed first. It isn’t right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered, “Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” 29 “Good answer!” he said. “Go on home. The demon has already left your daughter.” 30 When she returned to her house, she found the child lying on the bed and the demon gone. 31 After leaving the region of Tyre, Jesus went through Sidon toward the Galilee Sea through the region of the Ten Cities. 32 Some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly speak, and they begged him to place his hand on the man for healing. 33 Jesus took him away from the crowd by himself and put his fingers in the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. 34 Looking into heaven, Jesus sighed deeply and said, “Ephphatha,” which means, “open up.” 35 At once, his ears opened, his twisted tongue was released, and he began to speak clearly. 36 Jesus gave the people strict orders not to tell anyone. But the more he tried to silence them, the more eagerly they shared the news. 37 People were overcome with wonder, saying,
“He does everything well! He even makes the deaf to hear and gives speech to those who can’t speak.”
The Word of the Lord
Thanks be to God!
SERMON | Can You Hear Me Now? | Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 451 | Open My Eyes, That I May See | Open My Eyes
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH CONFESSION OF 1967
9.54 Biblical visions and images of the rule of Christ, such as a heavenly city, a father’s house, a new heaven and earth, a marriage feast, and an unending day culminate in the image of the kingdom. The kingdom represents the triumph of God over all that resists his will and disrupts his creation. Already God’s reign is present as a ferment in the world, stirring hope in men and preparing the world to receive its ultimate judgment and redemption.
9.55 With an urgency born of this hope, the church applies itself to present tasks and strives for a better world. It does not identify limited progress with the kingdom of God on earth, nor does it despair in the face of disappointment and defeat. In steadfast hope, the church looks beyond all partial achievement to the final triumph of God.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS
OFFERTORY | Tis So Sweet to Trust In Jesus | Lloyd Larson
*DOXOLOGY | 606 Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
We not only hear but heed your call to see beyond those known to us to see those known to you. We commit not just our resources but our time and talent to listening to those long silenced and through them seeing our sister and brothers. Amen.
SEALING OF THE WORD
INVITATION TO THE LORD’S TABLE
GREAT PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them up to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
SHARING OF THE MEAL
All who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord, regardless of age or denomination, are invited to partake in the Sacrament of Communion. Please come forward down the center aisle as the ushers invite you. Take a piece of the bread and a cup and eat. We have gluten free bread available. Please dispose of the cups in the waste baskets by the table. Return to your seat by the side aisle.
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
God, our help, we thank you for this supper shared in the Spirit with your Son Jesus, who makes us new and strong, who brings us life eternal. We praise you for giving us all good gifts in him, and pledge ourselves to serve you, even as in Christ you served us. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 318 | In Christ There Is No East or West
St. Peter
*PRAYER OF BLESSING from St. Patrick
We arise today through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, Swiftness of the wind, Depth of the sea, Stability of the earth, Firmness of the rock.
We arise today through God's strength to pilot us;
God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us,
God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us,
God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us,
God's way to lie before us, God's shield to protect us, God's hosts to save us afar and anear, Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
We arise today
Through the mighty strength of the Lord of creation. Amen.
POSTLUDE | Recessional in C | Douglas E. Wagner
Some people choose to be seated to listen to the postlude. If you need to leave, the pastor and worship leader are glad to greet you at the entrance of the sanctuary. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord! Thanks be to God!
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
Worship Liturgist: Laura Dillman
Ushers: Bob James, Charlene Hansen, Eleanor Steiner
Worship
- In Person Sunday, August 29, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, Pastor Elvery's sermon is "It's a Matter of the Heart".
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for the August 29 streaming live service.
- Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
virtual heavenly perks will be from 12 noon to 2 pm (use picture link below)
gIVE -- electronically
to contribute (link:: a monetary offering) to first presbyterian church of homewood or
you may also contribute by mail to:
First Presbyterian Church of Homewood
P.O. BOX 1519
Homewood IL 60430
NEXT TIME: Readings for next week: Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 and Mark 7:24-37
BULLETIN FOR AUGUST 29 2021
PRELUDE Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring J.S. Bach
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP based on Psalm 146:6-9
God: the maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them,
God: who is faithful forever, who gives justice to people who are oppressed, who gives bread to people who are starving!
The LORD: who frees prisoners.
The LORD: who makes the blind see.
The LORD: who straightens up those who are bent low.
The LORD: who loves the righteous.
The LORD: who protects immigrants, who helps orphans and widows, but who makes the way of the wicked twist and turn!
*HYMN 610 O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing Azmon
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Truth about ourselves
Almighty God, you love us, but we have not loved you. You call, but we have not listened. We walk away from neighbors in need, wrapped in our own concerns. We condone evil, prejudice, warfare, and greed. God of grace, help us to admit our sin, so that as you come to us in mercy, we may repent, turn to you, and receive forgiveness.
(time of silent confession)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
Friends, believe the good news of the gospel:
In Jesus Christ we are forgiven. Thanks be to God!
*THE GLORIA
MOMENT WITH OUR CHILDREN Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WELCOME AND CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
(Instead of passing a pad, we ask that you sign the register in the Narthex as you leave, if you haven’t done so already.)
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
FIRST SCRIPTURE READING Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 CEB A good reputation is better than much wealth; high esteem is better than silver and gold. 2 The rich and the poor have this in common: the LORD made them both. 8 Those who sow injustice will harvest evil; the rod of their fury will come to an end. 9 Happy are generous people, because they give some of their food to the poor. 22 Don’t steal from the poor, because they are poor. Don’t oppress the needy in the gate. 23 The LORD will take up their case and press the life out of those who oppress them.
SPECIAL MUSIC Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee Dorothy Wells
SECOND SCRIPTURE READING Mark 7:24-37 CEB
24 Jesus left that place and went into the region of Tyre. He didn’t want anyone to know that he had entered a house, but he couldn’t hide. 25 In fact, a woman whose young daughter was possessed by an unclean spirit heard about him right away. She came and fell at his feet. 26 The woman was Greek, Syrophoenician by birth. She begged Jesus to throw the demon out of her daughter. 27 He responded, “The children have to be fed first. It isn’t right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered, “Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” 29 “Good answer!” he said. “Go on home. The demon has already left your daughter.” 30 When she returned to her house, she found the child lying on the bed and the demon gone. 31 After leaving the region of Tyre, Jesus went through Sidon toward the Galilee Sea through the region of the Ten Cities. 32 Some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly speak, and they begged him to place his hand on the man for healing. 33 Jesus took him away from the crowd by himself and put his fingers in the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. 34 Looking into heaven, Jesus sighed deeply and said, “Ephphatha,” which means, “open up.” 35 At once, his ears opened, his twisted tongue was released, and he began to speak clearly. 36 Jesus gave the people strict orders not to tell anyone. But the more he tried to silence them, the more eagerly they shared the news. 37 People were overcome with wonder, saying,
“He does everything well! He even makes the deaf to hear and gives speech to those who can’t speak.”
The Word of the Lord
Thanks be to God!
SERMON Can You Hear Me Now? Rev. Dudley J. Elvery
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 451 Open My Eyes, That I May See Open My Eyes
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH CONFESSION OF 1967
9.54 Biblical visions and images of the rule of Christ, such as a heavenly city, a father’s house, a new heaven and earth, a marriage feast, and an unending day culminate in the image of the kingdom. The kingdom represents the triumph of God over all that resists his will and disrupts his creation. Already God’s reign is present as a ferment in the world, stirring hope in men and preparing the world to receive its ultimate judgment and redemption.
9.55 With an urgency born of this hope, the church applies itself to present tasks and strives for a better world. It does not identify limited progress with the kingdom of God on earth, nor does it despair in the face of disappointment and defeat. In steadfast hope, the church looks beyond all partial achievement to the final triumph of God.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS
OFFERTORY Tis So Sweet to Trust In Jesus Lloyd Larson
*DOXOLOGY 606 Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
We not only hear but heed your call to see beyond those known to us to see those known to you. We commit not just our resources but our time and talent to listening to those long silenced and through them seeing our sister and brothers. Amen.
SEALING OF THE WORD
INVITATION TO THE LORD’S TABLE
GREAT PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them up to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
SHARING OF THE MEAL
All who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord, regardless of age or denomination, are invited to partake in the Sacrament of Communion. Please come forward down the center aisle as the ushers invite you. Take a piece of the bread and a cup and eat. We have gluten free bread available. Please dispose of the cups in the waste baskets by the table. Return to your seat by the side aisle.
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
God, our help, we thank you for this supper shared in the Spirit with your Son Jesus, who makes us new and strong, who brings us life eternal. We praise you for giving us all good gifts in him, and pledge ourselves to serve you, even as in Christ you served us. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 318 In Christ There Is No East or West
St. Peter
*PRAYER OF BLESSING from St. Patrick
We arise today through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, Swiftness of the wind, Depth of the sea, Stability of the earth, Firmness of the rock.
We arise today through God's strength to pilot us;
God's might to uphold us, God's wisdom to guide us,
God's eye to look before us, God's ear to hear us,
God's word to speak for us, God's hand to guard us,
God's way to lie before us, God's shield to protect us, God's hosts to save us afar and anear, Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ in me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
We arise today
Through the mighty strength of the Lord of creation. Amen.
POSTLUDE Recessional in C Douglas E. Wagner
Some people choose to be seated to listen to the postlude. If you need to leave, the pastor and worship leader are glad to greet you at the entrance of the sanctuary. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord! Thanks be to God!
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
SCRIPTURES IN WORSHIP – Next Sunday we will be reading Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 and Mark 7:24-37.
Worship
- In Person Sunday, August 22, 11 a.m. (Mask required for all) This Sunday, we welcome Rev. Lesley Weir to our pulpit.
- Worship Live Streaming at 11 a.m. Click here for the August 22 streaming live service. (link available approximately 10:45 a.m.) Try this link to use without Facebook ... it may not need Facebook Access
- Note to viewers of Live Streaming: These services, as you may have noticed, are a work in progress. Thank you for your patience.
(Bulletin below)
virtual heavenly perks will be from 12 noon to 2 pm (use picture link below)
gIVE -- electronically to contribute (link:: a monetary offering) to first presbyterian church of homewood or you may also contribute by mail to:
First Presbyterian Church of Homewood
P.O. BOX 1519
Homewood IL 60430
PRELUDE | We Walk By Faith | Dunlap's Creek
*CALL TO CONTINUING WORSHIP
One: God said, “I will be your God.”
Many: God has promised. God remembers. God is faithful.
One: God said, “I will lead you in the paths of truth.”
Many: God has promised. God remembers. God is faithful.
One: God said, “I will forgive you.”
Many: God has promised. God remembers. God is faithful.
One: God said, “My kingdom is near.”
Many: God has promised. God remembers. God is faithful.
.
*HYMN 475 | Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing Nettleton
*PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Holy One, you made the Earth and all that is in it. We give thanks for the sky and the seas, the mountains and the valleys, the trees and the flowers, the birds that fly and the fish that swim and all the animals that walk or crawl or creep on the land. You called on human beings to care for Creation, to serve you and praise you by loving all you have made. We don’t always do it well. We remember the story of Noah, and a time when people forgot to take care of the Earth and each other. We ask forgiveness for the ways we fail to love your world with our whole hearts. Help us to do better, one step at a time, just the way Noah built the ark one cubit at a time. (silent prayer)
Amen.
*DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS
God made a covenant with Noah, and God keeps a covenant with us. Come into the ark of forgiveness, beloved Children of God! Amen!
In Jesus Christ we are forgiven. Thanks be to God!
*THE GLORIA
MOMENT WITH OUR CHILDREN | Rev. Lesley Weir
WELCOME AND CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
(Instead of passing a pad we ask that you sign the register in the Narthex as you leave, if you haven’t done so already.)
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
SCRIPTURE READING | Excerpts from Genesis 6-9: The Story of Noah
SPECIAL MUSIC | When Shall I See Jesus (The Morning Trumpet) | Don Hustad
SERMON | " New Beginnings" Rev. Lesley Weir
WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD
*HYMN 738 | "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee" | Maryton
*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH | The Brief Statement of Faith
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
…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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS
OFFERTORY | " What a Friend We Have In Jesus" Mark Hayes
*DOXOLOGY | 606 Old Hundredth
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
See in our gifts our loyalty to you. We commit ourselves to both show forth and work for your kingdom to come. Amen.
WE GO IN GOD’S NAME
*HYMN 301 | "Let Us Build a House Two Oaks"
*BENEDICTION
POSTLUDE | "Cortege" | Gordon Young
Some people choose to be seated to listen to the postlude. If you need to leave, the pastor and worship leader are glad to greet you at the entrance of the sanctuary.
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord! Thanks be to God!
Rev. Dudley J. Elvery II, Interim Pastor
Mrs. Mary Ann Wenzelman, Interim Organist/Pianist
Flowers are given by Paul Gerrish in celebration of Laura Dillman’s birthday and thanking her for all the love she gives.
Worship Liturgist: Kim Hamilton
Ushers: Earl Anker, Laura Dillman, Ray Nielsen, Wanda Nielsen
Today, we welcome Rev. Lesley Weir to our pulpit as a former resident of Homewood. She was a member and member of staff at Flossmoor Community Church. Following her call into ministry in the Presbyterian Church she became a member at Calvary United Protestant Church and became a candidate for ministry. After ordination Lesley became the pastor of St. Luke
Presbyterian Church in Downers Grove.
She recently retired from that position.
