CALL TO WORSHIP
Christ is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.
All things have been created through him and for him.
He himself is before all things
And in Christ all things are held together.
Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish far more than all we can ask or imagine—
To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all generations forevermore.
—based on Eph. 3:20-21, Col. 1:15-17
OPENING PRAYER
God of grace, we thank you this morning that you have given us minds to know you, hearts to love you, and voices to sing your praise. Fill us now with your Spirit, that we may feel your presence and worship you in spirit and in truth. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Gracious God, we give you thanks this morning that, once again, you have called us together to be with each other, to sing your praises, and to be refreshed by your word. Sometimes we feel discouraged, because it seems that we are becoming fewer. And yet our spirits are strengthened by your love. And so, when the tasks that are before us seem always to be greater in number, we are uplifted by the knowledge of your gracious presence.
Keep your church in your care, open our eyes to new possibilities,
and open our hearts to our neighbors who need us.
When our challenges seem greater than our abilities,
grant us strength and the courage to take the first step in faith. This we pray in Christ's Name and for his glory. Amen.
COMMUNION PRAYER
Thank you, God, for your blessing of the church, and for calling us around your table. Help us to feel your presence around us and within us, and send your Spirit to settle on these gifts of bread and wine, that in them we may discern the body and blood of your Son. Fill us with that same Spirit, that we may be Christ's body in the world, bringing his presence into the lives of our neighbors. We pray this in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
