Sunday, March 8, 2020
Second Sunday in Lent
For Meditation and Reflection “Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship (Lay Reader)
- Leader: There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God
- People: the holy habitation of the Most High.
- Leader: The Lord pours forth rivers from bare mountains, and fountains in valley’s depths.
- People: God opens rocks and water gushes out.
- Leader: God springs forth streams in the desert.
Opening Hymn: O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing #42
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Today’s Scripture Reading: John 3:1-12 (Lay Reader)
Sermon “Born of the Spirit” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
- Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
- People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
- All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Hymn: The Church’s One Foundation #386
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
The Lord’s Prayer (Ecumenical Text) Our father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
Closing Hymn: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling #43
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Day/Week “Jesus said, ‘The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.’”(John 3:8)
Health Update from The United Church of Christ
Because we believe that faith communities have a special responsibility to care for our fellow congregants and communities, we are making every effort to comply with the precautionary measures recommended by our denominational leaders as the COVID-19 virus expands its presence worldwide.
We are refraining from hugs and handshakes, and are instead using nods of the head, fist bumps, elbow bumps and simple verbal greetings in their place. We have also modified our traditional method of receiving the bread and cup on communion Sundays. Many thanks to everyone for their understanding and compliance!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Childcare is offered during all worship services in the Fellowship Hall, right next door to the Sanctuary.
This Sunday –
- 10 am– Adult Education. Taking Down the Walls with Brenda Lyle
- 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
Next Sunday, Mar 15th – 11 am Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Sunday, Mar. 22nd – 11am – Worship led Rev. Mary Mason
Mark Your Calendar! MARCH 22, 1PM TO 3PM
- OPEN HOUSE AT THE PARSONAGE
- Come – open to the neighborhood and town. See – upgrades! Look what has been accomplished to bring the Parsonage a new life.
Food Bank: Items may be placed in a box in Fellowship Hall
During the Week at St. James:
- Mindfulness Meditation. Wed. mornings 10 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
- Stretch It Out! Fri. evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm. Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
- English Language Classes for adults. Three sessions are planned for the rest of 2020. Spring: April 25 – May 23; Summer: June 16 – Aug 4; Fall: Oct 3 – Nov 21. Talk with Lauranne to volunteer.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth.
Sunday, March 1, 2020
First Sunday in Lent
For Meditation and Reflection:
“Come, let us walk in the light of the Lord, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths”
(Isaiah 2:5, 3c)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship (Alcuin of York, England, 8th Cent.) (Lay Reader)
- Leader: Eternal Light, shine into our hearts.
- People: Eternal Goodness, deliver us from evil.
- Leader: Eternal Power, be our support.
- People: Eternal Wisdom, scatter the darkness of our ignorance.
- Leader: Eternal Compassion, have mercy upon us.
- People: That with all our heart, mind, soul and strength we may seek your face.
Singing (with Jennifer and Keith Taylor)
- Arise Shine
- Come and Find the Quiet Center
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Scripture Reading: Matthew 4:1-11 (Lay Reader)
Sermon “Lessons From the Wilderness” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
- Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
- People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
- All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Singing Breathe on Me Breath of God #292
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer (Ecumenical Text) Our father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
Singing Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness #286
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Week.
Lent is a season of forty days, not counting Sundays, which comes from the Anglo-Saxon word lencten which means “spring.” The season was originally a time of preparation for celebrating Easter and a period of fasting and preparation for baptism by converts. In later centuries, Lent became a time of penance for all Christians.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sunday, Mar. 1st
- 10 am– Sunday School for Children in Fellowship Hall; Adult Education in Sanctuary, led by Brenda Lyle. Taking Down the Walls: Cultivating Compassion. Come explore spiritual practices to open our hearts and truly learn how we can follow Jesus’ commandment to love one another.
- 11 am- Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
- 12:15 pm – Join in for Congregational Pot Luck!
Sunday, Mar. 8th
- 10 am– Adult Education. Taking Down the Walls with Brenda Lyle
- 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Sunday, Mar. 15th 11 am — Worship led By Rev, Mike Lyle
Sunday, Mar. 22nd 11 am – Worship led Rev. Mary Mason
Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
During the Week at St. James:
- Mindfulness Meditation. Wed. mornings10 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
- Stretch It Out! Fri. evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm. Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
- English Language Classes for adults. Please pass the word. Saturday mornings 10am – noon. Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Help Needed: come work with adult students or help with childcare. No experience needed. Talk with Lauranne (703) 346-3071.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, February 23, 2020
For Meditation and Reflection:
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
(Mathew 25: 37:40)
Welcome and Announcements – Janell Kinzie
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Call to Worship (2 Corinthians 4:6) (Lay Reader)
- Leader: It is the God who said,
- People: “Let light shine out of darkness,”
- Leader: who has shone in our hearts
- People: to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God
- Leader: in the face of Jesus Christ.
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Opening Hymn: We Yearn, O Christ, for Wholeness #179
Today’s Scripture Reading: Luke 10:25-37 (Lay Reader)
Sermon: “Two Unexpected Neighbors” Rev. Roland England
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
- Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
- People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
- All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Hymn: They Asked Who’s My Neighbor #541
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer(Traditional, with “debts”)
Closing Hymn: God, Speak to Me that I May Speak #531
Benediction (Pastor)
Thought for the Day/Week
Never stop learning, because life never stops teaching.
(Good Morning e-buddhism.com)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday Feb. 23rd
- 11 am – Worship led byRev. Roland England
- 12:15 pm – Meeting of Open House Committee in Fellowship Hall
NOTE: In March, Children’s Sunday School will be held on the 1st Sunday of the month.
- 10 am– Sunday School for Children
- 10 am– Adult Education led by Brenda Lyle Taking Down the Walls: Cultivating Compassion. Come explore spiritual practices to open our hearts and truly learn how we can follow Jesus’ commandment to love one another.
- 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
- 12:15 pm – Join in for Congregational Pot Luck!
Sunday, Mar. 8th
- 10 am– Adult Education. Taking Down the Walls with Brenda Lyle
- 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
During the Week at St. James:
- Mindfulness Meditation. Wed. mornings 10 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
- Stretch It Out! Fri. evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm. Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
- English Language Classes for adults. Please pass the word. Saturday mornings 10am – noon. Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Help Needed: come work with adult students or help with childcare. No experience needed. Talk with Lauranne.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Cover credit: The Good Samaritan, oil on canvas by Maximilien Luce, 1896. The Athenaeum, private collection.
Sunday, February 16, 2020
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany
For Meditation and Reflection:
“You show me the path of life, O God. In your presence there is fullness of joy.”
(Psalm 16:11)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship (2 Corinthians 4:6) (Lay Reader)
- Leader: It is the God who said,
- People: “Let light shine out of darkness,”
- Leader: who has shone in our hearts
- People: to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God
- Leader: in the face of Jesus Christ.
Opening Hymn: Joyful, Joyful, We Adore You #4
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Today’s Scripture Reading: Luke 10:38-42 (Lay Reader)
Sermon “Worried and Distracted” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
- Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
- People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
- All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Hymn: Spirit of the Living God (Two times) #283
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer (Traditional, with “debts”)
Closing Hymn: There Is a Balm in Gilead #553
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Day/Week
“It is winter proper; the cold weather, such as it is, has come to stay. I bloom indoors in the winter like a forced forsythia; I come in to come out. At night I read and write, and things I have never understood become clear; I reap the harvest of the rest of the year’s planting.’”
(Annie Dillard, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Feb. 16th – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Next Sunday Feb. 23rd– Worship led by Rev. Roland England
Note: In March, Children’s Sunday School will be held on the 1st Sunday of the month.
Sunday, Mar. 1st
- 10 am– Children’s Sunday School in Fellowship Hall with Robin Scott.
- Adult Education in Sanctuary, led by Brenda Lyle. Taking Down the Walls: Cultivating Compassion: Come explore spiritual practices to open our hearts and truly learn how we can follow Jesus’ commandment to love one another.
- 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
- 12:15 pm – Join in for Congregational Pot Luck!
Sunday, Mar. 8th
- 10 am– Adult Education. Taking Down the Walls with Brenda Lyle
- 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
During the Week at St. James:
- Mindfulness Meditation. Wed. mornings10 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
- Stretch It Out! Fri. evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm. Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
- English Language Classes for adults. Please pass the word. Saturday mornings 10am – noon. Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Help Needed: come work with adult students or help with childcare. No experience needed. Talk with Noemi, Lauranne, or Tena.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Cover credit: Jan Vermeer (attr.) – Christ in the House of Martha and Mary – National Gallery of Scotland
Sunday, February 9, 2020
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
For Meditation and Reflection:
“It was you, O God, who made my inmost self, you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:13-14)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship (Lay Reader)
- Leader: There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God.
- People: The holy habitation of the Most High.
- Leader: The Lord pours forth rivers from bare mountains, and fountains in valley’s depths.
- People: God opens rocks and water gushes out.
- Leader: God springs forth streams in the desert.
Opening Hymn: When Morning Gilds the Skies #86
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Today’s Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (Lay Reader)
Sermon “God’s Illuminating Radiance” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
- Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
- People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
- All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Hymn: Let It Breathe on Me #288
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer [Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: There’s a Spirit in the Air #294
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Day/Week
“Jesus said, ‘The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.’” (John 3:8)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Feb. 9th
- 10 am– Sunday School for Adults and Children
- 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
- 12:15 pm – Council Meeting (instead of the 3rd Sunday)
Next Sunday, Feb. 16th– Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
Sunday, Feb. 23rd– Worship led byRev. Mike Morse
Sunday, Mar. 1st
- 10 am– Sunday School for Adults and Children
- 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
- 12:15 pm – Join in for Congregational Pot Luck!
Note: In March, Children’s Sunday School will be held on the 1st instead of the 16th.
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
During the Week at St. James:
- Mindfulness Meditation. Wed. mornings 10 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
- Stretch It Out! Fri. evenings 6:30 – 7:30 pm. Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
- English Language Classes for adults. Please pass the word. Saturday mornings 10 am – noon. Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Help Needed: come work with adult students or help with childcare. No experience needed. Talk with Lauranne.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Cover concept: “Rising above the chaos and circumstances of life is as easy as reaching up and taking hold of the umbrella of God’s Spirit.” -Carolyn Ehrman
Sunday, February 2, 2020
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
For Meditation and Reflection:
The temple bell stops –
but the sound keeps coming
out of the flowers.
Basho – 1644-94 / translated by Robert Bly
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship (Alcuin of York, England, 8th Cent.) (Lay Reader)
- Leader: Eternal Light, shine into our hearts.
- People: Eternal Goodness, deliver us from evil.
- Leader: Eternal Power, be our support.
- People: Eternal Wisdom, scatter the darkness of our ignorance.
- Leader: Eternal Compassion, have mercy upon us.
- People: That with all our heart, mind, soul and strength we may seek your face.
Opening Hymn: Beautiful Jesus #44
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Scripture Reading: John 14:1-14 (Lay Reader)
Sermon “Relationship” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
- Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
- People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
- All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: Jesus – The Very Thought to Me #507
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer [Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: All Things Bright and Beautiful #31
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Week
“One is not noble who injures living creatures. They are noble who hurt no one.” (Buddha)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Feb 2nd
- 10 am – Adult Sunday School with Sea Raven and Mike Morse;
- 11 am – Communion Worship withRev. Mike Lyle;
- 12:15 pm – Join in for Congregational Pot Luck!
Next Sunday, Feb. 9th
- 10 am– Sunday School for Adults and Children;
- 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle;
- 12:30 pm – Council Meeting
Sunday, Feb. 16th– Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
Sunday, Feb. 23rd– Worship led byRev. Mike Morse
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
During the Week at St. James:
- Wednesdays 10 am, Mindfulness Meditation. Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
- Fridays 6:30 – 7:30 pm, Stretch It Out! Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
- Saturdays 10 am – noon, English Language Classes for adults. Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Please pass the word. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Help Needed: come work with adult students or help with childcare. No experience needed. Talk with Lauranne or Noemi.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Cover concept: With God, there’s a lot of room! “In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.” — John 14:2
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Gathering Music
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship led by Tena Brass; written by James Weldon Johnson, 1921
One: God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way.
All: Thou who hast by Thy might Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray.
One: Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we meet Thee,
All: Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee.
One: Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand
All: True to our God, true to our native land!
Hymn: When Israel was in Egypt’s Land #572
Prayer of Illumination led by Tena Brass
We stand in the light of truth, the light of love, the challenge of justice. Fill us, O God, with the power and grace to be the light’s brightness for the world and strong witnesses of sacred justice.
We have condemned racial injustice in our pronouncements, yet we cling to the privileges derived from social inequities. All too often we are blind to our complicity in maintaining systems of oppression and deferring the hopes and dreams of the oppressed for freedom. Give us the courage to name our sin, give us the strength to claim responsibility for our actions. Give us the grace to pay the price for changing our behavior. Amen.
Hymn: We Shall Overcome #570
Scripture: read by Tena Brass
- Psalm 27:1-3
- Matthew 4:18-22
Sermon: How Long, How Long, Push On Rev. Mike Morse
Part I To Kill a Mockingbird
Part II Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom
Song: Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Round
Part III John Lewis
Song: Precious Lord #472
Congregational Response
Offertory
And so, in gratitude we offer ourselves, and all that we have. May we be one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sharing Joys and Concerns
Pastoral Prayer
Lord’s Prayer
Hymn I Woke Up This Morning With My Mind Stayed on Freedom #85
Benediction
Song: Lift Every Voice and Sing (1st verse) #593
Lift every voice and sing till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmony of liberty.
Let our rejoicing rise high as the listening skies; Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.
Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us; Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;
Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on, till victory is won.
Sharing Peace
All are invited to join fellow congregants for coffee and conversation in the Fellowship Hall after service.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Jan. 26th 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Morse
Next Sunday, Feb 2nd 10 am – Adult Sunday School with Sea Raven and Mike Morse; 11 am – Communion Worship with Rev. Mike Lyle; 12:15 pm – Join in for Congregational Pot Luck!
Sunday, Feb. 9th 10 am– Sunday School for Adults and Children; 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle; 12:30 pm – Council Meeting
Sunday, Feb. 16th– Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Sunday, Feb. 23rd– Worship led by Rev. Mike Morse
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
During the Week at St. James:
Mindfulness Meditation. Wed. mornings 10 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
Stretch It Out! Fri. evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm. Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
English Language Classes for adults. Please pass the word. Saturday mornings 8:30 -10:30am, Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Help Needed: come work with adult students or help with childcare. No experience needed. Talk with Lauranne.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Cover Credit: Za’atari Syrian refugee camp in Jordan; children with completed Art Education project by Joel Bergner with AptART and ACTED.
Sunday, January 19, 2020
Second Sunday after the Epiphany
For Meditation and Reflection:
“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we’re liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” (Marianne Williamson)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer
Call to Worship (John 1:14) (Lay Reader)
Leader: And the Word became flesh
People: and lived among us.
Leader: And we have seen his glory,
People: the glory of God’s only son, full of grace and truth.
Opening Hymn: Forward Through the Ages #377
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Today’s Scripture Reading: John 1:29-42 (Lay Reader)
Sermon “What Are You Looking For?” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness#286
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer [Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: In the Bulb There Is a Flower #433
Benediction (Pastor)Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Day/Week “As my sufferings mounted, I soon realized that there were two ways that I could respond to my situation: either to react with bitterness or seek to transform the suffering into a creative force. I decided to follow the latter course.’” Martin Luther King Jr.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Jan. 19th 9 am – Council Meeting, all welcome; 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Next Sunday, Jan. 26th 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Morse
Sunday, Feb 2nd 10 am – Adult Sunday School with Sea Raven and Mike Morse; 11 am – Communion Worship with Rev. Mike Lyle; 12:15 pm – Join in for First Sunday Congregational Pot Luck.
Sunday, Feb. 9th 10 am– Sunday School for Adults and Children; 11 am – Worship led byRev. Mike Lyle
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
During the Week at St. James:
Mindfulness Meditation. Wednesday mornings 10 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
Stretch It Out! Friday evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm. Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with relaxed stretching and strengthening for all ages. First class free.
English Language Classes for adults. Please pass the word. Saturday mornings 8:30 -10:30am. Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Volunteers Needed: Come work with adult students or help with childcare. No experience required. Talk with Lauranne
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, January 12, 2020
Baptism of the Lord
For Meditation and Reflection:
“There are many in the world who are dying for a piece of bread, but there are many more dying for a little love.” (Mother Teresa)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship (Lay Reader)
- Leader: There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God.
- People: The holy habitation of the Most High.
- Leader: The Lord pours forth rivers from bare mountains, and fountains in valley’s depths.
- People: God opens rocks and water gushes out.
- Leader: God springs forth streams in the desert.
Opening Hymn: Blessed Assurance #473
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Today’s Scripture Reading: Matthew 3:13-17(Lay Reader)
Sermon “With Whom I Am Well Pleased” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
- Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
- People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
- All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: Guide My Feet #497
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer [Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: O Savior, Let Me Walk with You #503
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Day/Week “Those who make us believe that anything is possible and fire our imagination over the long haul, are often the ones who have survived the bleakest of circumstances themselves. They have every reason to despair, but don’t, so may have the most to teach us.’” — Paul Rogat Loeb
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Jan. 12th 10 am – Sunday School for children and adults; 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Next Sunday, Jan. 19th 9 am – Council Meeting, all welcome; 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Sunday, Jan. 26th 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Mike Morse
Sunday, Feb 2nd 10 am – Adult Sunday School; 11 am – Communion Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle 12:15 pm – Join in for First Sunday Congregational Pot Luck!
During the Week at St. James:
Mindfulness Meditation. Wednesday mornings 10:30 am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
Stretch It Out! Friday evenings 6:30 – 7:30 pm. Starting January 10th, Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with stretching and strengthening for all ages. Bring a yoga mat. $10. First class free.
English Language Classes for adults. Saturday mornings 8:30 -10:30 am, Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Please pass the word. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Need volunteers: come work with adult students or help with childcare. Training provided; no experience needed.
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, January 5, 2020
Epiphany Sunday
For Meditation and Reflection:
“Am I my brother’s keeper? No, I am my brother’s brother, or my brother’s sister. Human unity is not something we are called on to create – only something we are called on to recognize.” — William Sloane Coffin
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship (Lay Reader)
Leader: The prophet’s message is confirmed.
People: We do well to be attentive!
Leader: As to a lamp shining in a dark place,
People: until the light of Christ shines in our hearts.
Opening Hymn: Arise, Your Light Is Come #164
Prayer for Illumination (Lay Reader)
Scripture Reading: Matthew 2:1-12 (Lay Reader)
Sermon “If It Happened” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: As with Gladness Those of Old#159
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer [Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: GoTell It on the Mountain #154
Benediction (Pastor)Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thought for the Week
“Every heart is the other heart. Every soul is the other soul. Every face is the other face. The individual is the one illusion.” — Marguerite Young (From Miss MacIntosh, My Darling)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CORRECTION: Beginning in January, Adult Sunday School will meet in the sanctuary at 10:00 on the 1st and 2nd Sundays of each month. In January, Mike Morse will lead an inquiry into “Saving Jesus” from the “Living the Questions” curriculum. In February, Sharon Lloyd-O’Connor will teach and, in March, Brenda Lyle.
This Sunday, Jan. 5th 10am – Adult Sunday School with Rev. M. Michael Morse – first in a two week inquiry into “Saving Jesus” from the “Living the Questions” curriculum.
11am – Communion Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
12:15pm – Help take down the Giving Tree and join in at First Sunday Congregational Pot Luck.
Sunday, Jan. 12th 10 am – Sunday School for children with Robin Scott and adults with Mike Morse. 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Jan. 19th– Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Jan. 26th 11 am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
During the Week at St. James:
Mindfulness Meditation. Wednesday mornings 10:30am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
Stretch It Out! Friday evenings 6:30 – 7:30 pm. Starting January 10th, Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with stretching and strengthening for all ages. Bring a yoga mat. $10. First class free.
English Language Classes for adults. Please pass the word. Saturday mornings 8:30 -10:30am, Free. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Need volunteers.
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, December 29, 2019
First Sunday after Christmas
Prelude
Throughout this lay-led service, music is provided by the Internet.
For Reflection:
“But I would feel all the cells in my body as I sang hymns that connected my little life with the grandeur of the cosmos, the Christian drama across space and time. This was my earliest experience of breath and body, mind and spirit soaring together, alive to both mystery and reality, in kinship with others both familiar and unknown. That’s one way I’d define the feeling of faith now.”
Krista Tippett, Becoming Wise: An Inquiry into the Mystery and Art of Living, 21st century
Welcome and Announcements
During this Congregational Service, all are invited and welcomed – by your presence, your words, your prayers, and your silence – to call the Spirit to move within and among us.
During our worship time together today, you, the members of the Congregation will be asked to share readings you have brought or to read from today’s scripture.
Responsive sharing by the congregation may follow each reading, as the Spirit moves us.
Hymns and Songs will be organically woven into the evolving fabric of our worship today.
Lectionary Citations:
Isaiah 63:7-9
Psalm 148
Hebrews 2:10-18
Gospel Reading for Today: Matthew 2:13-23; Luke 2:1-20
Responsive Sharing
Closing Prayer and Blessing (Unison)
Most holy and loving God, be our light in the darkness, our strength for the journey, our one true home – today and always.
Amen.
Postlude
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Beginning in January, Adult Classes will meet in the sanctuary at 10:00 on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month, with a new teacher and topic each month. In January – Mike Morse will teach from a curriculum called “Living the Questions” focusing on “Saving Jesus.” In February, Sharon Lloyd-O’Connor will teach. In March, Brenda Lyle will teach.
Next Sunday, Jan. 5th : 11am – Communion Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle; 12:15pm – First Sunday Congregational Brunch – Please join in for pot luck in the Fellowship Hall.
Sunday, Jan. 12th : 10 am – Sunday School; 11 am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Jan. 19th – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Jan. 26th : 10 am – Sunday School; 11 am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Mindfulness Meditation. Wednesday mornings10:30am, Fellowship Hall. Free. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
Starting January 10th, Stretch It Out! Friday evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm, Fellowship Hall: Come feel good with stretching and strengthening for all ages. Bring a yoga mat. $10. First class free.
Resuming Jan. 11th: Saturday mornings 8:30 -10:30am, Free. English Language Classes for adults. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Fellowship Hall. Please pass the word. Volunteers needed.
Sharing Tree through Jan. 5th. It’s not too late to give or take something warm or fun in front of St. James! Anything left unclaimed will be donated to Mobile Hope.
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Ice Lanterns
December 29, 2019
Congregational Worship led by Tena Brass
10 East Broad Way
Lovettsville, Virginia
Christmas Eve, December 24, 2019
Christmas Eve
December 24, 2019, 5:30 P.M.
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Lighting of the Advent Candles and the Christ Candle
Pastor: We light these candles as symbols of Christ.
People: Christ our hope,
Pastor: Christ our way in the world,
People: Christ our joy,
Pastor: The Prince of Peace. May the visitation of your Holy Spirit, O God, make us ready for the coming of Jesus.
All: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
Hymn It Came upon the Midnight Clear #131
Children’s Time (Pastor and Children)
Hymn Away in a Manger #124
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
God of all people and all nations, God of pilgrimage and our true home, God of merciful love, light in darkness, hope in every moment; come among us this night, through your Holy Spirit, and help us find our way to Bethlehem, to the manger, to you. Amen.
Call to Worship
Pastor: Praise be to God!
People: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who has visited and redeemed the people.
Pastor: Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
People: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Hymn: O Come, All You Faithful – # 135
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-20
Sermon “The Tears of Christmas” Mike Lyle
Hymn: O Little Town of Bethlehem – # 133
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Hymn Silent Night – #134
Closing Prayer and Blessing (Pastor)
Most holy and loving God, be our light in the darkness, our strength for the journey, our one true home – tonight and always. Amen.
Postlude
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Worship ————————————————————–
Next Sunday, Dec. 29th, 11am – Lay-led worship offering spiritual renewal for the new year.
Sunday, Jan. 5th, 11am – Communion Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
12:15pm – First Sunday Congregational Brunch – Please join in for pot luck in the Fellowship Hall.
Gather ——————————————————————–
Wednesday mornings 10:30am, Fellowship Hall. Free. Mindfulness Meditation. All welcome; beginners encouraged!
Friday evenings 6:30 – 7:30pm, Fellowship Hall: Stretch It Out! at the end of your week. Starting January 10th, Come take care of yourself, bring a yoga mat, and feel good with stretching and strengthening for all ages. $10. First class free.
Saturday mornings 8:30 -10:30am, Fellowship Hall. Free. English Language Classes for adults. Led by a certified ELL teacher. Childcare provided. Please pass the word. Classes resume Sat., Jan. 11th. Volunteers needed.
Give ———————————————————————–
The Christmas Eve offerings collected tonight will be donated to Mobile Hope, a non-profit that serves homeless teens and children in Loudoun County. See MobileHopeLoudoun.org/
Sharing Tree through December. It’s not too late to give or take something warm or fun in front of St. James! Any toys and warm clothes not taken by Jan. 5th, will be donated to Mobile Hope.
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, December 22, 2019
4th Sunday in Advent
PRELUDE Winter Solstice Waltz (Stephen Darnell); Lo How A Rose; What Child is This; Ihr Kinderlein, Kommet (Traditional) — Sea Raven, Celtic Harp
WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
LIGHTING THE ADVENT WREATH
Isaiah 7:14: The Lord will give you a sign: The woman shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel, which means God is with us.
Reflection: The young woman will bear a son and they shall name him God-With-Us. That is the promise of the prophets and the hope of Israel. That promise is fulfilled; that hope realized in the miracle of light, the miracle of God-With-Us. The Holy One has chosen to become one like us and to walk among us still. That is the mystery of the incarnation that we celebrate. Our God walks among us still in the guise of the immigrant, the refugee, the asylum seeker. Will we welcome the light, our God made flesh, as Mary and Joseph welcomed Jesus into their hearts and into their home? Since 2017, our government has continually made it more difficult for us to welcome those seeking refuge. The Trump administration has tightened the rules regarding asylum and has applied ever harsher standards in reviewing asylum applications. Migrants are fleeing their homes to seek refuge in the U.S. because they have heard that in America people are free and the U.S. government just. We pray it may be so someday soon.
Prayer: Good and gracious God, thank you for the many ways you reveal yourself to us—in the kindness of a grandmother, the generosity of a neighbor, the comfort of a friend. Give us eyes to see the goodness of your light in the faces of our immigrant neighbors. Give us ears to hear the good news of your word made flesh in those seeking safety at our borders. Give us courage to stand with asylum seekers now threatened by our own government, and with all in need, as we welcome your incarnate love made flesh. Amen. — Sister Ann Scholz, School Sisters of Notre Dame
SHARING OF JOYS AND SORROWS
Pastoral Prayer
A LITURGY OF CAROLS AND COMMENTARY: FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT — Rev. M. Michael Morse
I. Facing Fear and Despair
Reading: Isaiah 11
Carol: Lo How A Rose E’er Blooming #127
Reading: Luke 2:8-20
Carol: The First Noel #139 (vs. 1,2)
II. Hope, Innocence, Destiny
Reading: Matthew 2:1-11
Carol: What Child is This? #148
III. Protest
Reading: Matthew 2:13-23
Carols: Who Would Think that What Was Needed #153
‘Twas In the Moon of Wintertime #151
IV. The Coming of the Light
Reading: John 1:1-5
Carol: Break Forth O Beauteous Heavenly Light #140
OFFERTORY: All Hayle to the Dayes (Traditional) – Sea Raven, Celtic Harp
SUNG RESPONSE: In the Bleak Mid-Winter (verse 4) #128
V. Great Joy
Reading: Luke 2:15
Carols: Angels We Have Heard on High #125
Joy To the World #132
BENEDICTION — Luke 2:25-32
Thoughts for the Day and Week: – Gospel of John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 9. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. 10. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; but the world did not know him. 12. Yet, to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, 13. who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. 14. And so the Word became flesh,[…] full of grace and truth. 16. From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Dec. 22nd – 4th Sunday of Advent, 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Tuesday, Dec. 24th– Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 5:30pm – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Next Sunday, Dec. 29th, 11am – Lay-led worship
Sunday, Jan. 5th, 11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
It’s Christmas Sharing Tree Time! (spread the word) This has become a favorite St. James tradition. We hang gifts on the outdoor tree and invite the whole community to “Give what you can and take what you need.” Throughout December, please donate unwrapped gifts of toys, books, games (new), or winter wear (new/good condition). See bins and supplies in breezeway.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Third Sunday of Advent
For Meditation and Reflection: “The visible world is an active doorway to the invisible world, and the invisible world is much larger than the visible.” (Richard Rohr)
Welcome and Announcements
Lighting of Third Advent Candle
Scripture Reading – Isaiah 35:10
Reading – (unison) We light this candle as a symbol of Christ our Joy.
May the joyful promise of your presence, O God,
Make us rejoice in our hope of salvation.
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship Pastor: Praise be to God!
People: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who has visited and redeemed the people.
Pastor: Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
People: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Opening Hymn: O Sing a Song of Bethlehem #51
Prayer for Illumination (Pastor)
Today’s Scripture Reading: Mark 1:1-8
Sermon “Messengers” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours.
All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have.
By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: In the Bleak Midwinter #128
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer[Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: Holy Spirit, Ever Dwelling #59
Benediction (Pastor)Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Passing the Peace As You Go
After service, all are invited to join fellow congregants for coffee and conversation in the Fellowship Hall.
Reverend Lyle is available after worship to discuss this service or any ideas or concerns you may have.
Thought for the Week “Christ has no body now on earth but yours. No hands but yours. No feet but yours. Yours are the eyes through which Christ’s compassion may see the world. Yours are the feet with which he is to go about doing good. Yours are the hands with which he is to bless now.’” Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Dec. 15th– 3rd Sunday of Advent 9:30am – Council Meeting; all welcome 11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Next Sunday, Dec. 22nd – 4th Sunday of Advent 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Tuesday, Dec. 24th– Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 5:30pm – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Dec. 29th 11am – Lay-led worship
It’s Christmas Sharing Tree Time! (spread the word) This has become a favorite St. James tradition. We hang gifts on the outdoor tree and invite the whole community to “Give what you can and take what you need.” Please donate unwrapped toys (new), or winter wear (new/good condition). See bins and supplies in breezeway.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, December 8, 2019
SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT
Preludes
Cold Frosty Morn; Basque Carol; 5th Century Carol Medley Sea Raven, Celtic Harp
Welcome and Announcements
LIGHTING THE ADVENT WREATH
Advent Wreath Liturgy by Sister Marie Lucey of the Franciscan Action Network
Isaiah 11: 8-9: The baby shall play by the cobra’s den, and the child shall lay his hand on the adder’s lair. There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain. . .
Reflection: The context of this quote from the prophet Isaiah is Rule of Emmanuel. Following passages in social injustice and violence, Isaiah envisions a world of justice and peace where animals and children play together without fear. No child in this world should be hungry, or afraid, or mistreated, but many thousands of children today are hungry and live in fear. The United States, tragically, enacts policies that create trauma for children at our southern border. Between December, 2018 and June 2019, at least 8 children died in detention. Many reports provide evidence of unsafe and unhealthy conditions for immigrant children held in detention separated from parents or adult family members. Many people have been outraged at images of children in cold, crowded, unhealthy facilities and have taken action to challenge inhumane policies. Legislators in both parties deplored an order to deport seriously ill children who could die if deported. Advent gives us a challenge to shine the light on cruel treatment of children, and to work for the Rule of Emmanuel.
Prayer: Emmanuel, God-With-Us, shine your light of compassion on children and families treated inhumanely as they seek safety in the U.S. Shine your light of mercy in the hearts of government officials that they may be transformed. Shine your light of persistence on advocates for children. Amen.
Hymn: Isaiah the Prophet # 108
Sharing of Joys and Sorrows
Pastoral Prayer
Scripture Readings: Matthew 3:1-12; Romans 15: 4-13
Sermon: The Flame of Covenant: That’s the Way of the Lord Rev. M. Michael Morse
Responsive Sharing
Hymn: Sing a Different Song #150
(Substitute “Christmas is NEAR” for “Christmas is here.”)
Offering and Offertory I Wonder as I Wander (John Jacob Niles) Sea Raven, Celtic Harp
Sung Response: In the Bleak Mid-Winter (verse 4) #128
Closing Hymn: O Come Emmanuel #116
Taking the Light out into the World
BENEDICTION
Passing the Peace as we go…
All are invited to the Fellowship Hall, following service.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
It’s Christmas Sharing Tree Time! (spread the word) Over the past few years, St. James has made a new tradition. We hang gifts on the outdoor tree and invite the community to “Give what you can and take what you need.” Please donate unwrapped toys (new), or winter wear (new/good condition). See bins and supplies in breezeway.
Sunday, Dec. 8th– 2nd Sunday of Advent 10am – Sunday Schools: Adults meet in the Sanctuary to discuss faith, focused by Chs. 11&12 of The Phoenix Affirmations. Children (ages 5-11) do a Sunday School Service Project to make gift bags for Mobile Hope, which serves homeless teens. The goal is for the children to make up 20 gift bags. 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Sunday, Dec. 15th– 3rd Sunday of Advent: 9:30am – Council Meeting; all welcome; 11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Dec. 22nd – 4th Sunday of Advent: 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Sunday, Dec. 24th– Christmas Eve: 5pm – Candlelight Service led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, December 1, 2019
First Sunday of Advent
For Meditation and Reflection: “There are moments in our lives, there are moments in a day, when we seem to see beyond the usual – become clairvoyant. We reach then into reality. Such are the moments of our greatest happiness. Such are the moments of our greatest wisdom . . . At such times there is a song going on within us, a song to which we listen.” (Robert Henri, 1865-1929)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship
Pastor: You create and sustain us, our merciful and loving God.
People: We are the clay, and you are our potter.
Pastor: You work with us, and for us, in all things.
People: We are all the work of your hands.
Opening Hymn: We Hail You God’s Anointed #104
Prayer for Illumination (Pastor)
Today’s Scripture Reading: Isaiah 64:1-9
Sermon “Clay in the Potter’s Hands” by Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: Now Bless the God of Israel #110
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer [Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel #116
Benediction (Pastor)Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Passing the Peace As You Go
All are invited to join fellow congregants for coffee and conversation in the Fellowship Hall, immediately following service.
Reverend Lyle is available after worship to discuss this service or any ideas or concerns you may have.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Dec. 1st – Advent begins 11am – Communion Worship with Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle 12pm – First Sunday pot luck brunch in Fellowship Hall. After brunch, volunteer to decorate the outdoor Sharing Tree. During Advent, we invite the whole community to “give what you can; take what you need.” 4pm – Woodgrove GSA & friends help decorate Sanctuary.
Saturday, Dec. 7th– Parents Morning Out: (9am – noon) We will be baking and decorating Christmas cookies and doing a holiday craft. Parents, sign your children (ages 5-11) up at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0945ADAB22A2F58-parents
Sunday, Dec. 8th 10am – Sunday Schools: Adults meet in the Sanctuary to discuss Chs 11 & 12 of The Phoenix Affirmations. Children (ages 5-11) do a Sunday School Service Projectto make gift bags for Mobile Hope, which serves homeless teens. The goal is for the children to make up 20 gift bags. 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Sunday, Dec. 15th 9:30am – Council Meeting; all welcome. 11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Donations Needed This Month: (Please spread the word!)
– Mobile Hope: Socks, gloves, shampoo, toothpaste, tooth brushes, soap, grocery gift cards, or gift bags for homeless teens. Please leave on back pew by 12/8/19.
– Sharing Tree: New toys and winter clothes, unwrapped. Please see bins and supplies in breezeway.
– Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. See sign and box in Fellowship Hall.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, November 24, 2019
THANKSGIVING SUNDAY
Prelude
Lighting of the Candles
Welcome and Announcements
Greeting for Worship
Leader: The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
People: And also with you.
Call to Worship (in unison) O God, You are the artist, creator of the earth. You place in every person our beauty and our worth. You bring it all together, as one community, a beautiful mosaic, a home and shelter, for all your world to enjoy.
Opening Hymn Come, O Thankful People, Come #422
Prayer of Confession (in unison) Creator God, even now, today you are forming us and reshaping us in love. Our lives are beautiful and messy. There is pain and there is joy. Jesus, in your mercy, we pray that you would gather it all together and leave nothing to waste. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Assurance of Forgiveness by Leader: Friends hear this great good news: Today God shows us another way. God’s mercy is as wide as the ocean. Let our hearts receive the outpouring of God’s love and compassion. Hear and believe the good news. In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and made whole. Amen.
Musical Response Great is Thy Faithfulness (refrain only) #423
Great is Thy Faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand has provided; Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
First Scripture Lesson: Psalm 100 (Responsive) Page 688
Hymn For the Beauty of the Earth #28
Gospel Lesson: Luke 4:4-16
Sermon Thanksgiving Today by Mary Mason
Litany of Intercession # 878
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
The Lord’s Prayer (use debt’s or trespasses as you prefer)
Musical Prayer Response Hear our prayer, O Lord; hear our prayer, O Lord. Incline your ear to us, and grant us your peace.
Offering Call (responsive)
Leader: With thanksgiving and joy, we are called to let our lives and our works give witness to the presence of God in our midst.
People: Let us generously offer our gifts of time, talent, and money, returning to God a portion of what God has given to us.
Doxology (Note new words) #780
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; In heaven above and earth below! One God, three persons we adore; To God be praise forevermore!
Offering Prayer of Dedication (in unison) We give thanks, O God, for all that you have given us. Pour out your blessings on these tithes and offerings, that they may be a source of blessing in the world. Amen.
Closing Hymn There is a Wideness in God’s Mercy #23
Taking the Light out into the World.
Benediction (Pastor) Go in peace. Celebrate the wonders of creation, and know that in all seasons of life God is with us. Listen to the songs of falling rains, and the hymns of colorful trees and harvested gardens. Touch the earth with love and respect. Today, let us shape our lives by focusing our minds on what is beautiful and worthy of praise. May God bless and hold us gently as we seek to do God’s work in this world. AMEN!
Postlude
Passing the Peace As You Go
All are invited to join fellow congregants for coffee and conversation in the Fellowship Hall, immediately following service.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Donations Needed This Month: (spread the word)
Mobile Hope: By December 8th, donations requested for homeless teens: socks, gloves, shampoo, toothpaste, tooth brushes, soap, grocery gift cards, or gift bags. Leave on back pew.
Sharing Tree: Until Christmas, St. James is collecting new toys and winter clothes, unwrapped. See bins in breezeway to leave donations.
Lovettsville Food Bank: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. Leave in Fellowship Hall.
This Sunday, Nov. 24th– Worship led by Rev. Dr. Mary Mason
Sunday, Dec. 1st – Advent begins
11am – Communion Worship with Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
12pm – First Sunday pot luck brunch in Fellowship Hall.
After brunch, stick around to help decorate the Sharing Tree in the front yard. During Advent, it is our tradition to hang gifts on the tree for those in need. We welcome the whole community to “give what you can; take what you need.”
Saturday, Dec. 7th– Parents Morning Out: 9am – noon. We will be baking and decorating Christmas cookies and doing a holiday craft. Parents, sign your children (ages 5-11) up at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0945ADAB22A2F58-parents
Sunday, Dec. 8th
10am – Sunday School Adults meet in the Sanctuary to discuss Chs.11 & 12 of The Phoenix Affirmations. Children ages 5-11 do a Sunday School Service Projectto make gift bags for Mobile Hope, which serves homeless teens. The goal is for the children to make up 20 gift bags.
11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, November 17, 2019
Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost
For Meditation and Reflection:
“Therefore I am sure that whoever loves also fears, though it is felt but little. That fear makes us flee from all that is not good and fall into our Lord’s breast like a child in the mother’s arms, knowing God’s everlasting goodness and blessed love . . . The fear that brings us to such action is natural and gracious and good and true.” (Julian of Norwich, 1342 – 1416)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship
Pastor: Violence and fear destroy and confound.
People: But the Lord sustains us always.
Pastor: Nations and monuments falter and fall.
People: But God is our refuge and strength.
Opening Hymn: Holy, Holy, Holy #277
Prayer for Illumination (Pastor)
Today’s Scripture Reading: Luke 21:5-19
Sermon “Imperishable” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: God of Grace and God of Glory #436
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer[Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: When Peace, Like a River #438
Benediction (Pastor)Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day/Week
The world is too dangerous for anything but truth and too small for anything but love. (William Sloane Coffin, 1924-2006)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Nov. 17th 9am – Council Meeting in Fellowship Hall. 11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Nov. 24th– Worship led by Rev. Dr. Mary Mason
Sunday, Dec. 1st 11am – Communion Worship with Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle 12pm – First Sunday Community Table in Fellowship Hall. As you can, please bring something to share.
Saturday, Dec. 7th– Parents Morning Out: 9am – noon We will be baking and decorating Christmas cookies and doing a holiday craft. Parents, sign your children (ages 5-11) up at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0945ADAB22A2F58-parents
(Note: On Dec. 7th, English Class for Adults will be held in the Sanctuary.)
Sunday, Dec. 8th 10am – Sunday Schools: Adults will discuss Chs 11 & 12 of The Phoenix Affirmations. Children ages 5-11 will do a Sunday School Service Project to make gift bags for Mobile Hope, which serves homeless teens. * 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
*To sign up to donate to Mobile Hope, go to: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0945ADAB22A2F58-sunday
*If you can, please bring donations of: socks, gloves, shampoo, toothpaste, tooth brushes, soap, grocery gift cards, or gift bags. The goal is for the children to make up 20 gift bags.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, November 10, 2019
Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost
For Meditation and Reflection:
“We are above all things loved – that is the good news of the gospel – . . . despite the fact that we have all walked in different gardens and knelt at different graves, we have all, humanly speaking, come from the same place and are heading out into the same blessed mystery that awaits us all. . . . I think maybe it is holiness that we long for more than we long for anything else.” (Frederick Buechner)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship
Pastor: Trust in the Lord and do good.
People: May the Lord give strength to the people!
Pastor: O taste and see that the Lord is good!
People: God is our refuge and strength!
Opening Hymn: When Love Is Found #362
Prayer for Illumination (Pastor)
Today’s Scripture Reading: Luke 20:27-38
Sermon “Three Weddings and a Funeral” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn: There Is a Balm in Gilead #553
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer[Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: Amazing Grace#547
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day/Week
“Each time members of the tribe die, the self we were with them dies too, which is to say that the kind of words we spoke only to them – were only to them – and the kind they spoke only to us are spoken no longer. . . . but the words they were are added to the vocabulary of the heart, where we have more than just ears for hearing them.” (Frederick Buechner)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Nov 10th – 10am – Sunday Schools for both children and adults. Adults meet in the Sanctuary to discuss Ch 9 & 10 of The Phoenix Affirmations. In the Fellowship Hall and backyard (weather permitting), Robin Scott will lead the children in spiritual discovery.
11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Next Sunday, Nov. 17th – 9am – Council Meeting in Fellowship Hall.
11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Nov. 24th– Worship led by Rev. Dr. Mary Mason
Sunday, Dec. 8th – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse
Childcare is offered during services in the Fellowship Hall.
Lovettsville Food Bank Donations: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. Thank to Tena for taking our donations.
ESL Classes continue Saturdays 8:30am. Many thanks to Audra and Noemi for teaching; Lauranne and Tena for childcare.
Serving with a Purpose If you haven’t already filled one out, Service forms are on the bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. Please put completed forms in the basket on top of the piano. You can also do it online – see website for links.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.
Sunday, November 3, 2019
A Service of Healing and New Beginnings
For Meditation and Reflection:
A new church is being born. It may not be the church we expect or want. The church of the future may not include our favorite liturgy or hymn, our central theological principle, or even our denomination! God’s promises always arrive with surprises in them. The form of the new world and new church is not in our hands. (Loren B. Mead, The Once and Future Church.)
Welcome and Announcements
Opening Prayer (Pastor)
Call to Worship
Pastor: We do not worry about our life.
People: God gives us what we need.
Pastor: We are not afraid.
People: God is our refuge and strength.
Opening Hymn: Arise Shine Jennifer Taylor
Prayer for Illumination (Pastor)
Today’s Scripture Reading: Luke 12:22-32
Sermon “New Beginnings” Mike Lyle
The Offerings and Offertory Music
A Litany of Thanksgiving
Pastor: All things come from you, O God, and with gratitude we return to you what is yours. All that we are, and all that we have, is your gift to us.
People: And so, in gratitude for all your gifts, we offer ourselves, and all that we have. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world.
All: Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflective Hymn:I Will Always Be With You
Jennifer Taylor and Diane Younkins
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the Pastor and People
Lord’s Prayer[Traditional, with “debts”]
Closing Hymn: We Are One . . . Jennifer Taylor
Benediction (Pastor) Go forward in the comfort and strength of God’s blessing. Remember that you are loved, that God is ever near, and that divine mercy is your way in the world. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day/Week
Jesus said the kingdom of God is like a tiny mustard seed that grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches. And the kingdom of God is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with the flour until all of it was leavened. (Luke 13:18-21)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday, Nov. 3rd
11am – Communion Service led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle music by Diane Younkins and Jennifer Taylor
12pm – First Sunday Community Table pot-luck in Fellowship Hall.
Next Sunday, Nov 10th
10am – Sunday Schools for both children and adults. Adults meet in the Sanctuary to discuss Ch 9 & 10 of The Phoenix Affirmations. In the Fellowship Hall and backyard (weather permitting), Robin Scott will lead the children in spiritual discovery.
11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Nov. 17th
9am – Council Meeting in Fellowship Hall.
11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle
Sunday, Nov. 24th– Worship led by Rev. Dr. Mary Mason
Serving with a Purpose If you haven’t already filled one out, Service forms are on the bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. Please put completed forms in the basket on top of the piano. You can also do it online:
Adult Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/33HF6WZ
Children’s Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B75T56L
Saturdays 8:30am – English Language Classes for those with a first language other than English. Many Thanks to Audra for leading the class, to Noemi for assisting with the class, and to Lauranne for providing childcare during class.
Childcare is offered during services in the Fellowship Hall.
Lovettsville Food Bank Donations: Please bring non-perishable food items to church. Thank to Tena for taking our donations.
Statement of Faith: We gather as an open and affirming community to worship God, however known. We welcome everyone, no exceptions. Together we seek spiritual comfort and challenge, learn from ancient and modern texts, and seek new dimensions of truth. We practice following the way of Jesus. We dare to demonstrate God’s love by working for justice and peace among all people.