Smithville United Methodist Church
PO Box 293, 505 N Hwy 169
Smithville, MO 64089
816-532-3200
Celebrating Life through Divine Worship
Memorial Day, Sixth Sunday of Easter
10:00 am, May 29, 2011
The time of centering:
Astounding Good News: Christ is alive! Easter is God’s shining light in our darkness. Easter is hope washing over despair. Easter is brimming over, flowing into each day and setting alleluias loose! God is with us! He gives us His spirit of comfort and peace! In the name of the living God, we welcome you to this worship service.
PRELUDE Worship begins as the music is played
ENTRANCE OF THE LIGHT
INVOCATION
Lord, we delight in meeting you here today. In this hour, may your Word be heard and heeded. Speak to our hearts from your kind affection and draw us near to you. Grant that we may know the fullness of your grace. Amen.
WELCOME
Mission Moment: Kathy Dibben
*SONGS OF PRAISE "Lord, Be Glorified" 2150
"Holy Ground" 2272
CALL TO WORSHIP
LEADER: Eternal God, Lord of Life, on this day of remembrance, we gather to give thanks for the lives of people whose passing reveals to us the value of this life you have granted.
PEOPLE: As we recall their lives, teach us to number our days that we may use wisely the treasure of time given to us.
LEADER: Let us remember those who, like Christ, willingly gave their lives for the sake of others:
PEOPLE: Firefighters who braved the terrors of flame; peace officers slain in the line of duty; soldiers and sailors and fliers who sacrificed their futures for our freedom;
LEADER: For ordinary citizens who instinctively reacted with heroism in response to a crisis or a disaster;
PEOPLE: For martyrs who valued truth and justice above life itself.
LEADER: Let us remember thankfully those who, just by their being, showed us the power of faith, hope and love:
PEOPLE: For beloved relatives; for mentors and teachers; for faithful friends and lifelong companions.
LEADER: Grant us strength to honor the memory of our loved ones by living each day remaining to us with courage and compassionate service to others.
ALL: Grant us grace to entrust our loved ones to your undying love. Amen
SPECIAL MUSIC CHILDREN’S STORY TIME OF PRAYER
Silent Prayer
Pastoral Prayer
The Lord’s Prayer
OUR DISCIPLESHIP OF GIVING
Offering
*Doxology
*Prayer of Dedication
*HYMN OF PREPARATION "America the Beautiful" 696
SCRIPTURE LESSON: John 14:15-21
SERMON Easter People: Spirited
UNISON PRAYER
Resurrected Savior, Savior of new life and new hope, we come to you in humble prayer and joyous song, for Easter has changed our lives. We are no longer frightened people – because you live, we have courage to face life. We are no longer lonely people – because you live, we can accept ourselves and reach out to each other. We are no longer scattered people – because you live, we may come together to worship, to learn, to serve. Amen
*HYMN FOR GOING FORTH "Because He Lives" 364
TAKING THE LIGHT OF CHRIST INTO THE WORLD
BENEDICTION
We go forth today full of confidence and hope knowing that God goes before us. God’s presence will guide you, keep you, and strengthen you for the living of these days. May you be a powerful presence in the world, bringing peace to those whose lives you touch. Amen
POSTLUDE
*Please stand if you are able when indicated by an asterisk
