Sunday, June 9th, 2019
St. James United Church of Christ
Pentecost Sunday June 9th , 2019
For Meditation and Reflection
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – Marianne Williamson
Welcome and Announcements
A warm welcome is extended to all. No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here in this safe and sacred place.
Call to Worship
Pastor: In this caring and supportive community, during this time of prayer and quiet reflection, we come to be emptied.
People: And to be filled with the spirit that flows in and among us and throughout the world.
Pastor: We, here today, are also people of spirit. We, too, are struck in awe before the great mystery of the cosmos.
People: We, too, are powerfully moved by a deep concern for our world and our care for one another.
Pastor: The spirit moves in us as in others, that we might be the embodiment of the larger life in all that we do.
All: Welcome to worship.
Recognizing our Graduates
Opening Hymn This Is a Day of New Beginnings – #417
Opening Prayer
At this time and as we gather in this sacred place we are aware of our breath and the life-giving air that surrounds and sustains. We are aware of the early Summer warmth in the air, and of the ground, the soil from which all living things draw their life and form. Symbols of life are all around us: light and noise, infants and adults, birds and animals, colors and movement, words of goodwill, songs of joy. As we recognize these symbols of life may we be inspired to share them generously. And may we increasingly become more respectful of all that is. We are one. We are one with it all. Over many years, men and women have come to this sacred place. They have been enriched. They have been strengthened. They have been renewed in spirit. Today as we come to this place, may we too find the pathway and the journey that awaits us. Amen.
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:1-18
Sermon: Searching for the Missed Point – Part 4 – by Rev. Samantha Tuttle
Responsive Sharing
Reflective Hymn Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness – #286
The Offerings and Offertory Music
Sharing of Joys and Concerns
The Lord’s Prayer (traditional, with debts)
Closing Hymn Help Us Accept Each Other – #388
Blessing and Sending:
May God’s breath stream within you. May God’s breath renew you. May God’s breath invigorate you. Walk with confidence into this day. Go in Peace.
Sharing the Peace as we go…….And we hope you can join us for post-worship coffee and conversation in Fellowship Hall.
Announcements
Congratulations to our Graduates!!!
Today we celebrate our graduates, Kate Sulek from Tuscarora High School, Tara Kulak, from Woodgrove High School, and Ammon Harteis from The College of William & Mary. Congratulations! Love and best wishes to you all !
This Sunday, June 9th: 11am Worship with Rev. Samantha Tuttle
Next Sunday, June 16th: Worship led by Rev. Mary Mason *No Church Council Meeting*
Sunday, June 23rd: Worship led by Rev. Mike Lyle
Sunday, June 30th: Worship led by Mike Morse
Saturday June 22nd – Frederick Pride Festival
Have fun! Be a witness for love at St James’ booth! To volunteer, Call/text Lauranne: 703-346-3071
Remote Area Medical
We are collecting NEW socks and underwear, all sizes, for the Remote Area Medical event, in SW VA June 28-30. Dave Kirk and Bill Zenner will donate all we can collect! See gray tub in the breezeway.
Mobile Hope
This is the time of year when kids who have just turned 18, can find themselves homeless. Mobile Hope is collecting gently used duffle bags, plus toothbrushes, toothpaste, and toiletries. Donations can be left in the big basket on back pew in the sanctuary.
Vacation Bible School! July 22nd – July 26th:
Mark your calendar if you want to volunteer or have your children participate! Registration forms are available in the Fellowship Hall.
Childcare is available during services in the Fellowship Hall. Thank you to Greta and Katie for your gracious care!
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.