Confirmation

Visitors:  Welcome to our church.  Please sign our guest book!  If you do not have a church home, we pray that you will find one with us.  We have large-print bulletins available, as well as hearing assistance devices.  Please ask an usher if you require either of these.  Restrooms are located in the church school building.  Go through the door next to the choir loft, and straight ahead.  We also have restrooms downstairs in Fellowship Hall.  Again, exit through the door next to the choir loft, turn left down the hall, and go down the steps. 

 We Gather To Worship

Prelude

Announcements

Chime Interlude

 *Call To Worship

One:          Like trees planted by streams of water, when we pay attention to God’s truth within we bear fruit in its season, and our leaves do not wither.

All:           Here is the stream of living water.  We come with listening hearts.  Amen.

 *Hymn:  “How Blest Are They Who, Fearing God” ………………#342

 *Invocation (We light the Christ Candle.)

Leader:      We gather in this place, some because we know you and some because we wish to know you.

People:     May that be enough for us right now, to simply rest here secure in the knowledge of being known.  Let that be enough to bring us together to share what we know and what we wish to know.  Amen.

 *Response:  “God Is Here”………..………………………….#701, v 1

 Prayer Of Confession

Leader One:  Jesus prayed a prayer for his followers, that they may be one.  What divisions must we lay aside?  (silence)

 Leader Two:  Jesus prayed a prayer for his followers, that they may be protected.  What must we do to guard and keep each other?  (silence)

 Leader Three:  Jesus prayed a prayer for his followers, that joy may be complete.  What holds us back from complete joy?  (silence)

 Leader Four:  Jesus prayed a prayer for his followers, that they may be sanctified in truth.  What truth do we need to hear today?  (silence)   (A time for silent prayers of confession; Music:  “Bind Us Together.”)

 Assurance Of God’s Forgiveness

Leader:      Let us receive the assurance of these prayers, and may unity, caring, joy, and truth be the fruit we bear in the world.  Amen.

Affirmation:    “Stir Your Church, O God, Our Father”. . …#718, v 1

 We Hear The Word

 ReadingOf The Scripture:    Psalm 1; I John 5: 9-13

The Act Of Confirmation.   Confirmands joining the church are Cooley, Alex, and Mileigh.

 Consistory President:   We invite to come forward those who wish to affirm their baptism by being confirmed.  Friends in Christ, we all are received into the church through the sacrament of baptism.  These young people have found nurture and support in the midst of the family of Christ.  Through prayer and study over the past year they have been led by the Holy Spirit to affirm their baptism and to claim in our presence their covenantal relationship with Christ and the members of the church.  They are here for service to Jesus Christ, using the gifts which the Holy Spirit bestows.

Questions Of The Candidates

Pastor:       Do you desire to affirm your baptism in the faith and family of Jesus Christ?

Candidates:    I do.

Pastor:       Do you renounce the powers of evil and desire the freedom of new life in Christ?

Candidates:    I do.

Pastor:       Do you profess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior?

Candidates:    I do.

Pastor:       Do you promise, by the grace of God, to be Christ’s disciple, to follow in the way of our Savior, to resist oppression and evil, to show love and justice, and to witness to the work and word of Jesus Christ as best you are able?

Candidates:    I promise, with the help of God.

Pastor:       Do you promise, according to the grace given you, to grow in the Christian faith and to be a faithful member of thechurchofJesus Christ, celebrating Christ’s presence and furthering Christ’s mission in all the world?

Candidates:    I promise, with the help of God.

 *Affirmation Of Faith  

Pastor:       Let us unite with the church in all times and places in confessing our faith in the triune God.

* ALL:      The Apostles’ Creed (in back of hymnal) (congregation will then be seated)

Act Of Confirmation

(Parents will come forward and stand near the Confirmands. Candidates will kneel on the chancel steps.  The pastor, parents, Consistory President, and mentors will place their hands upon each candidate individually.)

Pastor:      Do you believe in Jesus Christ?

Candidates:  I believe in Jesus Christ.

Pastor:      Do you believe in the Holy Spirit?

Candidates:  I believe in the Holy Spirit.

Pastor:      (placing hands on each Confirmand and naming them individually)

                  . . . the God of peace sanctify you.  I pray that you will be preserved blameless until the coming of our Savior Jesus Christ. 

Candidates:  Amen.

 Prayer Of Confirmation

Pastor:       We rejoice, O merciful God, with these young people in the gift of the Holy Spirit, and in the Spirit’s power to awaken us to new truth and to inspire us to venture into fullness of life.  We give you thanks that they have moved to affirm their baptism.  Help them to live not for themselves but for Christ and those whom Christ loves.  Keep them steady and abounding in hope, never giving up, pressing toward the goal of life with you in Jesus Christ. 

Candidates and Congregation:  Amen.

 Question About Participation

Pastor:        Do you promise to participate in the life and mission of this family of God’s people,   sharing regularly in the worship of God and enlisting in the work of this local church as it serves this community and the world?

Candidates:  I promise, with the help of God.

 *Welcome

(Members of the church will stand)

Consistory President:    Will the members of Zion United Church of Christ express your   welcome and affirm your mutual ministry in Christ.

 Members:  We promise you our continuing friendship and prayers as we share the hopes   and labors of the church of Jesus Christ.  By the power of the Holy Spirit may   we continue to grow together in God’s knowledge and love and be witnesses of   our risen Savior.  (the congregation will be seated)

 Greeting Of Christian Love

Consistory President:   In the name of Jesus Christ, and on behalf of Zion United Church of   Christ, we extend to you the hand of Christian love.

Pastor:        Go in the peace of Christ.

ALL:          Thanks be to God.

 Anthem:       “We Are Your People Oh Lord”……………………………..……Price/Besig

 Reading Of The Gospel:    John 17: 6-19

Message For This Day                                         

We Respond To God

 *Hymn:  “Pass It On”…………………………………………………………….……..#739

Pastoral Prayers 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 sins as we forgive those who sin against us.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.  Amen.)

 *Doxology:  “Praise God from Whom All Blessings” ………………………………..#809

 *Prayer Of Dedication

All:             What have you made known to us, O God, your stumbling followers?  That we   are yours,  That eternal life is ours.  That we do not belong to this world.   May   each of these truths direct us, guard us, and protect us.  May they water us like   a living stream, because by these truths we are called out and chosen to live   beyond ourselves to shared lives of joy, meaning, and purpose.  Amen.

*Invitation To Christ’s Table – Pentecost

Leader:        We come to a table set for all the peoples of the world, all tongues, all races, all   children of the Spirit’s fashioning. 

People:       We come to a table where hungers are satisfied and thirsts are slaked, by the   abundance of grace shared in parables made of grain and grape.  We come,   because you come, in Spirit and in power.

Leader:        Spirit God, remind us your breath is life, and your wind is freedom.  Your Spirit   moved across the water, and all things came to be.  Your Spirit designated leaders   and stirred prophets, and Israelwas led through wilderness and out of exile.  Your Spirit descended by the waters of the Jordan, and we were called to listen to the        Beloved.  Your Spirit calls us still, to witness, to service, that you might breathe life         into this creation through us.  Your Spirit calls us to this table, to remember by    whom we are fed, to remember by whom we live.  (Please be seated.)

The Words Of Institution

The Prayer Of Consecration

The Sharing of the Elements

                (The pastor says “The Bread of Heaven” as a sign to take the bread, and “The Cup of Blessing” as a sign to drink from the cups.  Please note the grape juice is in the outer ring and the wine is in the inner ring.  The round wafers are gluten free.  Please hold each element so we may eat and drink together.) 

 Post Communion Prayer

All:           In fulfillment of Christ’s promise, you poured out the Holy Spirit upon the chosen disciples and filled the church with power.  We thank you for sending your Spirit to us today to kindle faith and lead us into all truth, working in the church to make us faithful disciples and empowering us to proclaim the living Christ to every nation.  Amen.

 *Closing Hymn:  “Here I Am, Lord” …………..……….(insert)

*Blessing

Leader:      Go forth into the world, refreshed by the truth you have received from Christ and renewed by the knowledge that you belong to God.  You have been chosen, now go, and choose life!

 *Choral Benediction:  “The Bond of Love”……………#696, v 1, 2

*Chime Meditation

Postlude

*Where noted, please stand if able.                                    

May’s  Proverb:  

All day long the wicked covet, but the righteous give and do not hold back.  Proverbs  21: 26

 Thank You, Thank You, Thank You to everyone who participated in our filled basket fundraiser.  We raised $2,420 for the Biesecker Fund!  Well done, good and faithful servants, well done.

Senior Center Calendars for May are available in the Narthex.

The 2012 Flower Calendar is posted in the vestibule.  Please consider sponsoring the flowers that beautify our sanctuary.   Available dates:  July 15 and Oct. 28.  When paying for altar flowers, please give payment to the altar guild representative for that month.

 Strengthen the Church is one of four special mission United Church of Christ’s mission offerings.  This offering contributes to the growth of the UCC’s by:

          ►Funding new church starts and invigorating existing congregations

          ►Nurturing lay and pastoral leadership

          ►Building youth and young adult ministries

          ►Supporting the God is Stillspeaking Ministry

All gifts are directed to activities and programs of your church’s local conference as well as the UCC’s national ministries.  The offering will be received today.  Envelopes are in the pew rack.

 Calling all Labels For Education!  Please remember to save those participating labels – now over 2,500 participating products – it’s not justCampbell’s products anymore!  Drop labels off in the red boxes located in both the church vestibule or main Sunday School room. Zion’s Christian Education Program will redeem these labels for points, which will then be redeemed for FREE educational merchandise for Zion’s Sunday School program.  For a list of all participating products, go to LabelsforEducation.com and access How to Earn – Participating Products, or contact Meagan with any questions.

 The Food Pantry Item for May is toilet tissue and soap.

 One Of Zion’s Mission Outreach Projects, Habitat For Humanity, is starting up again.  There have been four lots purchased in Biglerville (Maple Avenue), and the first house will be built this spring.  The second  Blitz Build is this week:  Thurs-Sat. May 24 – May 26.  If you are interested in working during the Blitz Build or any Saturday, please contact Roger. 

 Soup Kitchen – the next meal is scheduled for May 29.  Sign-up sheet is located on the back credenza.  PLEASE REMEMBER FOOD PICK UP IS SATURDAY, 5/26 at 9:30 a.m. to deliver only (meal will be prepared and served on Tuesday, 5/29 by SK personnel).  Church side door will open at 8:30 a.m. and close by 9:30 a.m. – please place food donations in the kitchen.  Call 337-2845 to make arrangements for special pick-up prior to 5/26.  Thank you to everyone for your generosity.

 2012 Greeters Needed for Aug. 19; Sept. 9; Oct. 7, 28; Nov. 11, 18, 25; Dec. 16, 23, 24, 30.

 2012 Bulletin  Sponsors Needed for  July 29; Aug. 5, 12, 19; Sept. 2, 23; Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28. (Bulletin Sponsorship is $15 per Sunday.  Please place your remittance designated for Bulletin Sponsorship in the offering plate.)         

Coming Up Next Week:

May 21, Consistory Mtg, Zion Hse, 7:00 pm

May 23, Knitting Club, 6:00 pm

May 24, Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build, Biglerville

May 26, Memorial service forFlorence, 2:00 pm

 Looking Forward:

May 27, Children walk to cemetery, 10:15 am

May 29, Soup Kitchen, 10:45 – 1 pm

May 31, Book Club, Ron and Pat’s residence, 6:00 pm

June 18, Hoss’s Community Night, Gettysburg, 12 – 8 pm

June 24, Hot dog roast, behind Zion Hse, 6:00 pm

Chris and Brittni Hanna

Kathy Nelson

 Brandee Nelson and Adam Little, Kase and Kaylee

Kim Keiper

“To Love As Jesus Loves” 

Visitors:  Welcome to our church.  Please sign our guest book!  If you do not have a church home, we pray that you will find one with us.  We have large-print bulletins available, as well as hearing assistance devices.  Please ask an usher if you require either of these.  Restrooms are located in the church school building.  Go through the door next to the choir loft, and straight ahead.  We also have restrooms downstairs in Fellowship Hall.  Again, exit through the door next to the choir loft, turn left down the hall, and go down the steps. 

 We Gather To Worship

Prelude

Announcements

Chime Interlude

 *Call To Worship

One:        Listen to the world sing God’s praises!  The sound of children laughing, the feel of a gentle breeze, the taste of a home-cooked meal, the fresh smell of morning.

All:         God’s steadfast love is everywhere around us.

One:        Listen to the world sing God’s praises!  In friendship restored, in reconciled relations, in love refreshed.

All:         God’s steadfast love is everywhere around us.

 *Hymn:  “O Worship the King” …………………………….…#29

*Invocation (We light the Christ Candle.)

All:         Loving God, we come together to reconnect to you, the source of love.  No one has ever seen God, but here, connected to one another, God lives in us.  Grafted again to the taproot of love in this time together, we strengthen ourselves to reach out like branches bearing good fruit to the world.  Abide with us in this time, O God, so that we will continue to abide in love now and always.  Amen.

 *Response:  “Jesus, Stand Among Us”……….…………….#803

 Prayer Of Confession

One:        Hear the words of Jesus:  “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”  In the silence, we reflect on our willingness to love.  Loving God, open our hearts to love more freely, more fully.

All:         Lord, hear our prayer.

One:        Hear the words of Jesus:  “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”  In the silence, we reflect on the limits of our love.  Loving God, open our hearts to love more freely, more fully.

All:         Lord, hear our prayer.

One:        Hear the words of Jesus:  “You are my friends if you do what I command you.”  In the silence, we open our hearts to friendship with Jesus.  Loving God, open our hearts to love more freely, more fully.

All:         Lord, hear our prayer.    (A time for silent prayers of confession; Music:  “The Gift of Love.”)

 Assurance Of God’s Forgiveness

Leader:    Hear the words of Jesus:  “I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing, but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father.”

Affirmation:    “Majesty, Worship His Majesty”………………….#98

 We Hear The Word

 Reading Of  The Scripture:    I John 5: 1-6

Anthem:       “See the Children Here Before Us”……………McGuire/Choplin

The Sacrament Of Baptism For

 Jaxson

Born:   July 21, 2011, to Kristin and Franklin

and

Colton

Born:  July 26, 2011, to Nicole and Timothy

Welcome

Leader:    They were bringing children to Jesus that Jesus might touch them; and the disciples rebuked them.  But when Jesus saw it, Jesus was indignant, and said to them,

People:   “Let the children come to me, do not hinder them; for to such belongs the realm of God.  Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the realm of God like a child shall not enter it.”

Leader:    And Jesus took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands upon them.

Address

Leader:    The sacrament of baptism is an outward and visible sign of the grace of God.  Inasmuch as the promise of the gospel is not only to us but also to our children, baptism with water and the Holy Spirit is the mark of their acceptance into the care of Christ’s church, the sign and seal of their participation in God’s forgiveness, and the beginning of their growth into full Christian faith and discipleship.

 People:   This is the water of baptism.  Out of this water we rise with new life, forgiven of sin and one in Christ, members of Christ’s body.

Questions For The Parents

Pastor:     Do you desire to have Jaxson andColtonbaptized into the faith and family of Jesus Christ?

Parents: We do.

Pastor:     Will you encourage Jaxson andColtonto renounce the powers of evil and to receive the freedom of new life in Christ?

Parents: We will, with the help of God.

Pastor:     Will you teach them that they may be led to profess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior?

Parents: We will, with the help of God.

Pastor:     Do you promise, according to the grace given you, to grow with these children in the Christian faith, to help them to be faithful members of thechurchofJesus Christby celebrating Christ’s presence, by furthering Christ’s mission in all the world, and by offering the nurture of the Christian church so that they may affirm their baptism?

Parents: We do, with the help of God.

 *Congregational Assent (please stand)

Leader:    Jesus Christ calls us to make disciples of all nations and to offer them the gift of grace in baptism.  Do you, who witness and celebrate this sacrament, promise your love, support, and care to the ones about to be baptized, as they live and grow in Christ?

People:   We promise our love, support, and care.

*Blessing Of The Water

Pastor:     Bless by your Holy Spirit, gracious God, this water.  By your Holy Spirit save those who confess the name of Jesus Christ that sin may have no power over them.  Create new life in the ones baptized this day that they may rise in Christ.  Glory to you, eternal God, the one who was, and is, and shall always be, world without end.  Amen.

 Act Of Baptism

Prayer For The Baptized

Pastor:     We give you thanks, O Holy One, mother and father of all the faithful, for these your children and for the grace acknowledged here today in water and the Holy Spirit.  Embrace us all as sons and daughters in the one household of your love.  Grant us grace to receive, nurture, and befriend these new members of the body of Christ.

All:         Give to the newly baptized:  strength for life’s journey, courage in time of suffering, the joy of faith, the freedom of love, and the hope of new life:  through Jesus Christ, who makes us one.  Amen.

*Baptism Hymn:  “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry”…………….(insert)

 Reading Of The Gospel:    John 15: 9-17

Message For This Day                                        

 We Respond To God

 *Hymn:  “Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love”……………………………..#436

Pastoral Prayers 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 sins as we forgive those who sin against us.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.  Amen.)

 Our Offering

Offertory

*Doxology:  “Praise God from Whom All Blessings”……………….….#809

*Prayer Of Dedication

 *Closing Hymn:  “I Then Shall Live” …………………………….#507

*Pastoral Benediction

*Choral Benediction:  “Because He Lives”…………………#238

*Chime Meditation

Postlude

*Where noted, please stand if able.                                           

 May’s  Proverb:  

All day long the wicked covet, but the righteous give and do not hold back.  Proverbs  21: 26

 There Will Be No Sunday School on May 20, due to the reception for the confirmands.

 Thank You, Thank You, Thank You to everyone who participated in our filled basket fundraiser.  We raised $2,420 for the Biesecker Fund!  Well done, good and faithful servants, well done.

 Next Sunday, The Strengthen The Church Special Mission Offering will be received.  This offering supports the renewal of congregations, helps fund leadership for new churches, strengthens the witness of the United Church of Christ and supports The Stillspeaking Ministry.

Trivia Nite was held on Sunday, April 29, with 6 teams battling it out for their individually-chosen charities.  It came down to the wire, when after all rounds of competition were completed, 3 teams found themselves in a tie.  Though palms were sweaty and brains were tired, the desire to be crowned the “trivia masters,” drove Snowball’s Chance (Heather, Brittni, Mike, Betsy, Diane and Meagan),  to pull out the win by one question!  The night produced a donation of $310, which the winning team gave to the Biesecker Fund (young twins in Arendtsville recently diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy).  Get a team together for trivia in the fall, as you won’t want to miss the food, fellowship, and fun we have each and every time!

Calling all Labels For Education!  Please remember to save those participating labels – now over 2,500 participating products – it’s not justCampbell’s products anymore!  Drop labels off in the red boxes located in both the church vestibule or main Sunday School room. Zion’s Christian Education Program will redeem these labels for points, which will then be redeemed for FREE educational merchandise for Zion’s Sunday School program.  For a list of all participating products, go to LabelsforEducation.com and access How to Earn – Participating Products, or contact Meagan with any questions.

 The Food Pantry Item for May is toilet tissue and soap.

 One Of Zion’s Mission Outreach Projects, Habitat For Humanity, is starting up again.  There have been four lots purchased in Biglerville (Maple Avenue), and the first house will be built this spring.  There are two Blitz Build weekends scheduled in May.  The first is Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 17 – May 19, and the following week Thurs-Sat. May 24 – May 26.  We have also been asked to co-sponsor a noon meal on Friday, May 18, during the Blitz Build.  If you are interested helping with the meal on May 18 or working during the Blitz Build or any Saturday, please contact Roger.

 Soup Kitchen – the next meal is scheduled for May 29.  Sign-up sheet is located on the back credenza.  PLEASE REMEMBER FOOD PICK UP IS SATURDAY, 5/26 at 9:30 a.m. to deliver only (meal will be prepared and served on Tuesday, 5/29 by SK personnel).  Church side door will open at 8:30 a.m. and close by 9:30 a.m. – please place food donations in the kitchen.  Call 337-2845 to make arrangements for special pick-up prior to 5/26.  Thank you to everyone for your generosity.

 The 2012 Flower Calendar is posted in the vestibule.  Please consider sponsoring the flowers that beautify our sanctuary.   Available dates:  July 15 and Oct. 28.  When paying for altar flowers, please give payment to the altar guild representative for that month.

 2012 Greeters Needed for Aug. 19; Sept. 9; Oct. 7, 28; Nov. 11, 18, 25; Dec. 16, 23, 24, 30.

 2012 Bulletin  Sponsors Needed for  July 8, 29; Aug. 5, 12, 19; Sept. 2, 9, 23, 30. (Bulletin Sponsorship is $15 per Sunday.  Please place your remittance designated for Bulletin Sponsorship in the offering plate.)                   

 Coming Up Next Week:

May 16, Gown Review Cmte, Zion Hse, 7:30 pm

May 17, Mission Mtg,ZionHse, 7:00 pm

May 17-19, Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build, Biglerville                       

 Looking Forward:

May 20, Communion and Confirmands joinZion, 9:00 am

May 21, Consistory Mtg,ZionHse, 7:00 pm

May 23, Knitting Club, 6:00 pm

May 24, Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build, Biglerville

May 26, Memorial service for Florence McDannell, 2:00 pm

May 27, Children walk to cemetery, 10:15 am

May 29, Soup Kitchen, 10:45 – 1 pm

May 31, Book Club, Ron and Pat’s residence, 6:00 pm

Theme of Basket: Winner

Laundry:  Meagan Weaver

“I Am the Vine”

 Visitors:  Welcome to our church.  Please sign our guest book!  If you do not have a church home, we pray that you will find one with us.  We have large-print bulletins available, as well as hearing assistance devices.  Please ask an usher if you require either of these.  Restrooms are located in the church school building.  Go through the door next to the choir loft, and straight ahead.  We also have restrooms downstairs in Fellowship Hall.  Again, exit through the door next to the choir loft, turn left down the hall, and go down the steps. 

 We Gather To Worship

Prelude

 Announcements

Chime Interlude

 *Call To Worship

One:        I am the vine, said Jesus, and God is the vine grower.

All:         I am the vine, said Jesus, and we are the branches.

One:        Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God.

All:         Everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

 *Hymn:  “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” ………………………..#20

*Invocation (We light the Christ Candle.)

All:         Loving God, we come together to reconnect to you, the source of love.  No one has ever seen God, but here, connected to one another, God lives in us.  Grafted again to the taproot of love in this time together, we strengthen ourselves to reach out like branches bearing good fruit to the world.  Abide with us in this time, O God, so that we will continue to abide in love now and always.  Amen.

 *Response:  “Jesus, Stand Among Us”…………………… …….#803

 Prayer Of Confession

Leader:   There are only two feelings.  Love and fear. 

People:  There are only two languages.  Love and fear.

Leader:   There are only two activities.  Love and fear.

People:  There are only two motives.  Love and fear.

Leader:   God, help us to find our confession; the truth within us which is hidden from our mind; the beauty or ugliness we see elsewhere but never in ourselves; the stowaway which has been smuggled into the dark side of the heart, which puts the heart off balance and causes it pain, which wearies and confuses us, which tips us in false directions and inclines us to destruction, the load which is not carried squarely because it is carried in ignorance.

People:  God help us to find our confession.  Help us across the boundary of our understanding.  Lead us into the darkness that we may find what lies concealed; that we may confess it towards the light; that we may carry our truth in the centre of our heart; that we may carry our cross wisely and bring harmony into our life and our world.    Amen.    (A time for silent prayers of confession; Music:  “My Jesus, I Love Thee.”)

 Assurance Of God’s Forgiveness

Leader:   Here these words of assurance from 1 John 4: 7-21:  “We love because God first loved us.”  And God loves us enough to forgive us.

All:         Amen.

Affirmation:    “Majesty, Worship His Majesty”. . . …………………..#98

 We Hear The Word

 ReadingOf The Scripture:    I John 4: 7-21

A Time For Children

Anthem:       “Redeemed By His Grace”……………………………Drennan

 Reading Of The Gospel:    John 15: 1-8

Message For This Day                                        

 We Respond To God

 *Hymn:  “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”…………………………..#558

Pastoral Prayers 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 sins as we forgive those who sin against us.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.  Amen.)

 Order For Reception Of Members

 Invitation:    Chris, Kimberly, Adam, Brandee, Kathy, Patricia

 Consistory Representative (Jay)

We invite to come forward those who wish to affirm their baptism by uniting with us in this household of faith.

Consistory Representative:   Friends in Christ, we all are received into the church through the sacrament of baptism.  These people have found nurture and support in the midst of the family of Christ.  Through prayer they have been led by the Holy Spirit to affirm their baptism and to claim in our presence their covenantal relationship with Christ and the members of the church.  They are here for service to Jesus Christ, using the gifts which the Holy Spirit bestows.                                   

Questions Of The Candidates

Pastor:  Chris, Kimberly, Adam, Brandee, Kathy, and Patricia—do you desire to affirm your baptism into the faith and family of Jesus Christ?

Candidates:  I do.

Pastor:  Do you renounce the powers of evil and desire the freedom of new life in Christ?

Candidates:  I do.

Pastor:  Do you profess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior?

Candidates:  I do.

Pastor:  Do you promise, by the grace of God, to be Christ’s disciple, to follow in the way of our Savior, to resist oppression and evil, to show love and justice, and to witness to the work and word of Jesus Christ as best you are able?                                   

Candidates:  I promise, with the help of God.

Pastor:  Do you promise, according to the grace given you, to grow in the Christian faith and to be a faithful member of the church of Jesus Christ, celebrating Christ’s presence and furthering Christ’s mission in all the world?

Candidates:  I promise, with the help of God.

*Affirmation Of Faith (please stand as able)

Pastor:  Let us unite with the church in all times and places in confessing our faith in the triune God.

*All:  The Apostles Creed (back of hymnal)

*Address

Pastor:  By your baptism you were made one with us in the body of Christ, the church.  Today we rejoice in your pilgrimage of faith which has brought you to this time and place.  We give thanks for every community of faith that has been your spiritual home, and we celebrate your presence in this household of faith.

 *Question About Participation

Pastor:  Do you promise to participate in the life and mission of this family of God’s people, sharing regularly in the worship of God and enlisting in the work of Zion United Church of Christ as it serves this community and the world?

Candidates:  I promise, with the help of God.

*Welcome And Reception

Consistory Representative:  Let us express our welcome and affirm our mutual ministry in Christ.

*All:       We welcome you with joy in the common life of this church.  We promise you our friendship and prayers as we share the hopes and labors of thechurchofJesus Christ.   By the power of the Holy Spirit may we continue to grow together in God’s knowledge and love and be witnesses of our risen Savior. 

*Greeting Of Christian Love:  Consistory Representative

               In the name of Jesus Christ, and on behalf of Zion United Church of Christ, I extend to you the hand of Christian love, welcoming you into the church family of Zion United Church of Christ.  (congregation may be seated)

 Pastor:  Go in the peace of Christ.

All:      Thanks be to God!

 Our Offering

Offertory

 *Doxology:  “Praise God from Whom All Blessings” ………….……..….#809

*Prayer Of Dedication

All:         We dedicate ourselves to love, to recognizing and realizing the connections that bind us to each other, that make us one with one another like branches on a tree or like fruit on a vine.  We dedicate ourselves to the source of love, to knowing that if we love one another, God lives in us and love is perfected in us.  Perfect love casts out fear; may it be so in us.  Amen.

 *Closing Hymn:  “O. How I Love Jesus” ………………………….…….#509

 *Blessing

One:        Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God.

All:         Everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

One:        Go in peace to love and serve.  Reach out in love and bear the good fruit that is uniquely yours by the love of God.  Amen.

 *Choral Benediction:  “Because He Lives”……………………..……#238

*Chime Meditation

Postlude

*Where noted, please stand if able.                                           

May’s  Proverb:  

All day long the wicked covet, but the righteous give and do not hold back.  Proverbs  21: 26

 The property committee will meet on Thursday, May 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Zion House.  

Trivia Nite was held on Sunday, April 29, with 6 teams battling it out for their individually-chosen charities.  It came down to the wire, when after all rounds of competition were completed, 3 teams found themselves in a tie.  Though palms were sweaty and brains were tired, the desire to be crowned the “trivia masters,” drove Snowball’s Chance (Heather, Brittni, Mike, Betsy, Diane and Meagan),  to pull out the win by one question!  The night produced a donation of $310, which the winning team gave to the Biesecker Fund (young twins in Arendtsville recently diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy).  Get a team together for trivia in the fall, as you won’t want to miss the food, fellowship, and fun we have each and every time!

 “The Baskets Are Here”!  Yes, our annual filled basket fundraiser concludesyoday.   All proceeds will go to the Biesecker Fund.  This is a fund set up by Trinity Lutheran Church in Arendtsville to assist the Biesecker family with unpaid medical bills, and associated out-of–pocket expenses. 

 On May 20, The Strengthen The Church Annual Offering will be received.  This offering helps build our denominational future.  Directed to the church’s conference, local church ministries, and The Stillspeaking Ministry, these gifts help invigorate congregations, foster new leaders and grow the UCC’s presence as a community of extravagant welcome.

 Calling all Labels For Education!  Please remember to save those participating labels – now over 2,500 participating products – it’s not justCampbell’s products anymore!  Drop labels off in the red boxes located in both the church vestibule or main Sunday School room. Zion’s Christian Education Program will redeem these labels for points, which will then be redeemed for FREE educational merchandise for Zion’s Sunday School program.  For a list of all participating products, go to LabelsforEducation.com and access How to Earn – Participating Products, or contact Meagan with any questions.

 The Food Pantry Item for May is toilet tissue and soap.

 One Of Zion’s Mission Outreach Projects, Habitat For Humanity, is starting up again.  There have been four lots purchased in Biglerville (Maple Avenue), and the first house will be built this spring.  There are two Blitz Build weekends scheduled in May.  The first is Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 17 – May 19, and the following week Thurs-Sat. May 24 – May 26.  We have also been asked to co-sponsor a noon meal on Friday, May 18, during the Blitz Build.  If you are interested helping with the meal on May 18 or working during the Blitz Build or any Saturday, please contact Roger.

 Soup Kitchen – the next meal is scheduled for May 29.  Sign-up sheet is located on the back credenza.  PLEASE REMEMBER FOOD PICK UP IS SATURDAY, 5/26 at 9:30 a.m. to deliver only (meal will be prepared and served on Tuesday, 5/29 by SK personnel).  Church side door will open at 8:30 a.m. and close by 9:30 a.m. – please place food donations in the kitchen.  Call 337-2845 to make arrangements for special pick-up prior to 5/26.  Thank you to everyone for your generosity.

 The 2012 Flower Calendar is posted in the vestibule.  Please consider sponsoring the flowers that beautify our sanctuary.   Available dates:  July 15 and Oct. 28.  When paying for altar flowers, please give payment to the altar guild representative for that month.

 2012 Greeters Needed for May 13, 20, 27; June 3, 10, 17, 24; July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

 2012 Bulletin  Sponsors Needed for  May 13; June 10, 17, 24; July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. (Bulletin Sponsorship is $15 per Sunday.  Please place your remittance designated for Bulletin Sponsorship in the offering plate.)       

 Coming Up Next Week:

May 7, CEST Mtg, Main Sunday Sch. Rm., 7:00 pm

May 9, Knitting Club, 6:00 pm

May 9, Choir Practice, Sanctuary, 7:30 pm

May 10, Worship and Music Cmte,ZionHse, 7:30 pm

May 10, Property Cmte,ZionHse, 6:30 pm

 Looking Forward:

May 16, Gown Review Cmte, ZionHse, 7:30 pm

May 17, Mission Mtg, Zion Hse, 7:00 pm

May 17-19, Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build, Biglerville                       

May 20, Communion and Confirmands joinZion, 9:00 am

May 21, Consistory Mtg, Zion Hse, 7:00 pm

May 23, Knitting Club, 6:00 pm

May 24, Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build, Biglerville

May 27, Children walk to cemetery, 10:15 am

On April 29 once again Zion staffed the Barlow rest stop for the Face of America Wounded Warrior bike ride from Washington D.C. to Gettysburg.  There were 509 riders and our volunteers were proud to serve those who have served us!