Worship Planning Tools - April 2023 by CofChrist

Click to view a specific week

• 2 April 2023 (Palm Sunday / Passion Sunday)

• 6 April 2023 (Maundy Thursday)

• 7 April 2023 (Good Friday)

• 8 April 2023 (Holy Saturday)

• 9 April 2023 (Easter Sunday)

• 16 April 2023

• 23 April 2023

• 30 April 2023

Worship Resources – PALM OR PASSION SUNDAYS

2 April 2023

Palm Sunday

Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 Enter with Jesus

Additional Scriptures

Matthew 21:1-11; Jacob 2:8; Doctrine and Covenants 163:8b

Preparation

Provide palms for a procession.. At the front of the worship space display a large cross.

Prelude Statement of Invitation

Welcome. I am happy to welcome you to “hear the pleasing word of God, yes, the word which heals the wounded soul.” (Jacob 2:8) Today, we are invited to “Enter with Jesus” as we remember the “The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!’” (Matthew 21:9)

Call to Worship

Psalm 118:1, 19-20, 26a

Hymn of Praise

Have multi-generational volunteers come from the back of the worship space waving palms and saying, “Hosanna!” during the singing of this song. Place the palms at the foot of the cross.

“All Glory, Laud and Honor” CCS 467 OR “Sanna, Sannanina” sing twice CCS 469 OR “Halle, Halle, Hallelujah” sing twice CCS 86

Welcoming Prayer

Scripture Exploration

Based on Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

Hymn of Thanks

“Give Thanks” CCS 134 OR “Nimwebo Ba Yahweh” sing several times CCS 613 Sing with a song leader for a “call and response” effect, OR sing along with the vocal recording found on Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings. OR “Fanana” CCS 596 Sing with a song leader for a “call and response” effect, OR sing along with the vocal recording found on Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings

Moments of Reflection

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 163:8b

Meditation Thoughts project or print these questions/statements

• What brokenness and pain are you feeling right now? pause

• Imagine rivers of living water or another comforting image bringing healing and soothing ministry in your life… pause

• Visualize Jesus entering the gates of Jerusalem. Feel the peace of Jesus Christ in your life… pause

Prayer for Peace

Light the Peace Candle. Prayer

Peace Guide, Bring us into your temple with Jesus. Open our minds to the deeper meanings of the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper which we shall share today. Fill us with remembrance of Jesus the Peaceful One. Reconcile us to one another and to your divine purpose of peace within us. Renew us in awareness each day to our opportunities to become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen.

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Communion Scripture Matthew 26:26-29

Communion Message

Invitation to Communion

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

Testimony

Ask someone to share a testimony based on the deeper meanings of peace found in the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.

Hymn of Preparation

“I Come with Joy, A Child of God” stanzas 1-4 CCS 533

OR “For Bread Before Us Broken” CCS 524

OR “Eat This Bread” sing several times CCS 528

Blessing and Serving of the Bread and Wine

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement

When we think of the crowds that greeted Jesus on Palm Sunday with branches to create a pathway to enter the gates of Jerusalem, we are reminded that in just a few days another crowd shouted, “Crucify him!” How do we respond to Jesus’ presence? Which crowd are we a part of?

Whole-life stewardship is not about fleeting moments of praise, but rather a lifelong response of gratitude for the grace and generosity of God as expressed through the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. How will we respond, not just today, but every day to the ministry and mission of Jesus Christ?

During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all. The first Sunday of the month focuses the Disciples’ Generous Response on Abolish Poverty, End Suffering, which includes Oblation ministry.

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at CofChrist.org/spiritualpractices-generosity/

Unison Mission Prayer project or print

God, where will your Spirit lead today? Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me the courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen

Hymn of Triumph

“Filled with Excitement/Mantos y palmas”

CCS 465 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

OR “All Hail the Power of Jesus Name” CCS 105

OR “Louez le Seigneur/Praise, Praise, Praise the Lord” CCS 106 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Sending Forth

May we go forth with praise even as we have entered. Mindful of the coming days in which we continue our journey with Jesus to the cross and the coming of the first light on Easter morn. Alleluia and Amen!

Postlude

2 April 2023 Passion Sunday Philippians 2:5-11 Journey with Christ Additional Scriptures Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16, Matthew 26:14 27:66, Doctrine and Covenants 161:2d

Preparation

during the first

the

space

in purple fabric to represent

Provide palms for a procession

hymn. At

front of

worship

display a large cross draped

the Lenten season. Have black fabric ready to swap out with the purple fabric near the end of the service to represent Good Friday and Holy Saturday. Prelude

Statement of Invitation

Welcome. Today you are invited to Journey with Christ as we follow passion week from Jesus’s entry to Jerusalem to the foot of the cross. We are invited to let Paul’s Christ hymn from Philippians guide our worship and speak to our hearts today: “Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:5)

Reading of the Christ Hymn Philippians 2:5-11

Singing a Christ Hymn

“Let This Mind Be in You”

CCS 169 Sing this chorus in the Taizé style. See the February 5, 2023, service for an explanation of this style.

OR “Here, O Lord, Your Servants Gather” CCS 335 OR “Between Our Thoughts” CCS 163

At the Beginning of the Week according to the Gospel of Matthew

Jesus’s Entry into Jerusalem: Matthew 21:1-2, 6-11 Hymn of Praise

Have multi-generational volunteers come from the back of the worship space waving palms and saying, “Hosanna!” during the singing of this song. Place the palms at the foot of the cross.

“All Glory, Laud and Honor” CCS 467 OR “Sanna, Sannanina” sing twice CCS 469 OR “Halle, Halle, Hallelujah” sing twice CCS 86

Prayer of Gratitude

Reflection and Repentance Responsive Reading

Leader: How soon the shouts of Hosanna fade.

People: But we had questions, so many questions.

Leader: And when the lessons were done?

People: We prepared the upper room as he commanded.

Leader: He commanded you to love one another.

People: He washed our feet.

Leader: He commanded you to love one another.

People: He broke the bread.

Leader: He commanded you to love one another.

People: He poured the wine.

Leader: He commanded you to love one another.

People: Who is this who commands us?

Leader: Christ Jesus, “who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited…” (Philippians 2:6)

People: Who prepares this table and washes our feet?

Leader: Christ Jesus, who “emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form…” (Philippians 2:7)

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Prayer for Peace

Light the Peace Candle.

Spirit of Peace, We approach this time of communion and ask that hearts be freed from conflict, that our minds be liberated from twisting thoughts, that our hands be cleansed from the labors of divisiveness. For we know that Jesus “humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death even death on a cross.” Forgive us and help us to see the vision of peace, hear the word of peace and taste the flavor of peace as we enter into the peace of your communion. We pray in the name of Jesus, the Peaceful One. Amen.

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org

Communion Scripture Matthew 26:14–30

Communion Message

Include a testimony based on the deeper meanings of peace found in the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.

Hymn of Preparation

“Look at This Man, Born of God”

CCS 26 OR “In the Singing”

CCS 519 OR “Is There One Who Feels Unworthy” CCS 526

Invitation to Communion

as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

Blessing and Serving of the Bread and Wine

Renewal Meditation

The supper has ended. You walk with him to the Mount of Olives. Jesus prays in Gethsemane. You may close your eyes and imagine Jesus’s prayer. “Not my will, but your will be done.”

And then Jesus is arrested and taken to trial. You follow and watch the scene. He is convicted. He carries the cross and you struggle to follow along. He arrives at Golgotha and there you fall on your knees. He is crucified. He speaks his last words and dies. You are at the foot of the cross. Remember always that he “he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death even death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:8)

Hymn at the Foot of the Cross

“O Sacred Head Now Wounded” CCS 463 OR “Ah, Holy Jesus” CCS 461 OR “Jesus Remember Me” sing several times CCS 459

Silence

Take down the purple fabric from the cross and replace it with black fabric.

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement

We remain at the cross in our Passion Week Journey with Christ. The Christ Hymn in Philippians reminds us that “…God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on

earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts

grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at CofChrist.org/spiritualpractices-generosity/.

Unison Mission Prayer God, where will your Spirit lead today? Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me the courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen

Hymn at the Foot of the Cross

“What Wondrous Love” CCS 454 OR “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded” CCS 463 OR “Rejected and Despised” CCS 462

Sending Forth Doctrine and Covenants 161:2d Postlude

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Palm Sunday

Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29

Exploring the Scripture

Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem the last week of his life. The Gospel writers tell us Jesus rode a donkey, a symbol of coming in peace. The people placed palm branches or garments on the road to welcome him. They shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord” (John 12:13).

Those images appear in the scripture reading today from Psalm 118. However, it was not written as a prophecy of Jesus’ triumphal entry. The connection with Jesus is subtle.

Written many centuries before Jesus, this psalm of thanksgiving and praise may have been used in worship at the beginning of a new year. It is also one of seven psalms (113–118) the Levites sang as they slaughtered the lambs for the Passover Festival. In those traditions, we see symbols of Jesus as both king and lamb.

Psalm 118 is a processional psalm. Some scholars think it is the king who traditionally spoke the opening words as he and the people journeyed through the streets of Jerusalem to the temple. He directed the people in verse 2: “Let Israel say, ‘His steadfast love endures for ever.’”

The king directed other groups of worshipers to respond with the same declaration. The psalm describes the king’s difficult battle and gives thanks for a victory that delivered the nation from enemies.

Arriving at the temple the king asks for entrance but is told only the righteous shall enter (v. 19). The speaker admits being rejected by God for sin. But God provided salvation and mercy because “the stone that the builders rejected,” has become the cornerstone and ruler of the nation (v. 22).

The image may have come from a common proverb of the day. It speaks of something or someone who moves from a position of no value to a place of great prominence and power. A cornerstone was a key foundational feature of a strong building.

Verses 22 and 24 are favorite scripture passages for the Christian community. According to Matthew 21:42, Jesus used the image of the cornerstone to tell the people that God would take the kingdom away from them and allow those who are rejected and poor to build the kingdom.

Verse 25 is a petition to God to “Save us.” The Hebrew word for “save us” is “hosanna.” It is the word the people shouted as Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.

The following verse also includes words shouted during the triumphal entry: “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” In the original psalm, the words referred to the king who had entered the temple. Branches are mentioned, with the direction that they are to be tied to the horns of the altar. Then a hymn of praise to God completes the psalm of thanksgiving.

Were the people using their well-known Psalm 118 to praise Jesus that day so long ago, as their hoped-for king? Or did the gospel writers use the familiar phrases to describe the excitement and expectant hope of the crowd? We have no way of knowing.

What we do know is that a week that began in misplaced expectation of a new ruler ended in the crucifixion. Their hopes were dashed. The rest of the story must wait until next week.

Central Ideas

1. In this psalm and in Jesus’ entry, there are symbols of kingship, sacrifice, salvation, and the Passover lambs.

2. Thanksgiving and praise dominate the psalm, by raising a rejected, powerless figure to a position of power and triumph.

3. God is the prime mover and actor in bringing about victory and restoring hope.

Questions for the Speaker

1. How does an understanding of Psalm 118 transform your understanding of the words and actions of the crowd who witnessed Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem?

2. When have you felt like “the stone the builders rejected?” How has God transformed you?

3. If you were to write a psalm to praise God as Jesus rode into Jerusalem, what would you say?

Philippians 2:5-11

Exploring the Scripture

Today’s passage is commonly referred to as the “Christ hymn.” It is also known as the Kenōsis hymn, a Greek word meaning “emptying.” Before exploring these verses, it is helpful to consider the letter from which they are taken.

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the followers in Philippi, a leading city in Macedonia. This city was the urban center of a Roman colony. Although this meant the residents had some privileges, such as being Roman citizenship, it also meant that they were exposed to and affected more by the Roman culture than most people who lived in areas occupied by the Empire. The Roman model of hierarchical power was ever-present.

It appears there were likely four main reasons Paul penned this communication to the Philippians. First, he had planted the church there and had a close connection with the people, although he had not seen them in years. Paul had become aware that they knew he was in prison. He wanted them to know he was still filled with joy and confidence in the future despite his imprisonment. Second, he wanted to thank them for a gift they had sent him in appreciation for his friendship and leadership. Third, he knew someone traveling to Philippi who could carry the letter for him. Taking advantage of such opportunities for message delivery was standard practice then. Fourth, Paul wanted to address some difficulties the church was having, about which he had heard. These included persecutions that they were facing, opposition which they were facing from other groups presenting a different gospel, and tensions within the congregation, which were seemingly caused by a difference in leadership style.

The last reason helps explain Paul’s inclusion of the Christ hymn in his letter. Scholars and theologians are not sure if this was an actual hymn written by someone else or something Paul

Sermon Helps Year A – Letters Passion Sunday

wrote himself. But he used it in this letter to encourage the people and urge them to stand firm in their faith.

The portion of the letter presented in poetic form expresses the story of Jesus. Scholars suggest the precise meaning is difficult to interpret. However, it seems clear that Paul wanted to suggest the Philippian disciples should look to the one they were striving to follow. They should let Christ’s mind (thinking) be their thinking as they confronted the various challenges.

The hymn declares God’s incarnation in human form (Jesus) as the supreme model of humility and obedience for the Philippians to copy. Rather than proclaiming himself to be God, he instead took on life as a humble slave. As Gregory of Nyssa (a fourth-century church leader) wrote, “God’s transcendent power is more conspicuously displayed in the lowliness of Christ’s incarnation than in all the natural wonders of the universe.” Jesus obediently followed God’s direction even to an inglorious death on the cross. Because of his humble obedience, Christ is exalted (vv. 10-11).

Paul calls the people to such humble obedience amid their difficulties by including this hymn in his letter. He challenges them to set aside their egos, interests, and thoughts, which may not help the community. If each lets the mind of Christ be in them, wonderful and glorious events can happen that will finally lead to the Peaceable Kingdom on Earth.

Author Amy Plantinga Pauw describes what this might involve, “We have the same mind that was in Christ Jesus when we resist ambitious, self-seeking models of power; when we renounce exploitation and loveless indifference.”1

Central Ideas

1. The incarnation is the supreme model for humility and obedience asked of the Philippian followers.

2. To truly follow Christ, disciples must constantly strive to let his mind be in them rather than chasing their thoughts and interests.

Questions for the Speaker

1. When were you struggling because you were promoting your ideas and then felt the presence of the Holy Spirit providing you with a different way of thinking and approaching the circumstance?

2. What spiritual practices might help you let the mind of Christ truly be in you?

3. Describe a time when you have witnessed a group of disciples empty themselves and let the mind of Christ enter them more fully to be able to find common consent on something challenging or controversial.

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Palm Sunday

Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29 NRSV

Gathering Welcome

On Palm Sunday we focus on the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Jesus enters the city astride a donkey as a symbol of the unexpected nature of God’s reign.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

Gracious and loving God, as we lay palms at your feet we pray for peace. Peace that triumphs over darkness. Peace that ebbs and flows in the lives of all those who see and receive it. Peace that makes all people shout in jubilation, like the people who saw you on a donkey and shouted, “Hosanna!” Peace that rests in stones that would shout if the people did not. Let that peace spread as people hear our shouts and see our reactions to you. As we enter into Holy Week, walk with us, God, so that we may take time this week to share peace with the world. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Body Prayer

Say aloud: “Today our spiritual practice will be a body prayer.” Show the group members three postures they will experience.

First posture: head bowed with hands folded

Second posture: sitting or standing with arms stretched outward

Third posture: both hands clasped over the heart.

Say: “A chime will signal when to move into the next posture. You will not be offering any words of prayer but instead will focus on sensing what type of prayer wants to emerge from you as you hold each posture.”

Lead the group in three deep, cleansing breaths as preparation. Ring a chime.

First posture: Head bowed with hands folded (one minute). Ring a chime.

Second posture: Sitting or standing with arms stretched outward (one minute). Ring a chime.

Third posture: Both hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring a chime. Close with a spoken “Amen.”

Invite participants to share what they experienced as they engaged in the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table

Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29 NRSV

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever!

Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”

Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the Lord.

This is the gate of the Lord; the righteous shall enter through it.

I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.

The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.

This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Save us, we beseech you, O Lord!

O Lord, we beseech you, give us success!

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. We bless you from the house of the Lord.

The Lord is God, and he has given us light.

Bind the festal procession with branches, up to the horns of the altar.

You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God, I will extol you.

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.

Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem as recorded in all four gospels. Today’s passage, taken from Psalm 118, records a similar entry. Throughout the text, we find images and phrases made familiar through the New Testament narratives often referred to as the Triumphal Entry. In this Psalm, we have a victor (most likely a king) entering Jerusalem on his way to the temple, all the while engaging in honest self-reflection about his journey with God. Arriving at the temple, the king asks for entrance but is told only the righteous shall enter. He admits being rejected by God for sin. But God provided salvation and mercy because “the stone that the builders rejected,” has become the cornerstone and ruler of the nation. The image of a cornerstone speaks of something or someone who moves from a position of no value to a place of great prominence and power. According to Matthew, Jesus used the image of the cornerstone to tell people that God would take the kingdom from them and be “given to a people that produces the fruits of the kingdom.” As such, it becomes a word of hope for the poor and oppressed.

Finally, we hear words similar to those shouted during the triumphal entry: “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” Were the people using their well-known Psalm 118 to praise Jesus that day so long ago, as their hoped-for king? Or did the gospel writers use the familiar phrases to describe the excitement and expectant hope of the crowd?

Whether one foretells the other is not what matters. What is most important is the psalmist’s acknowledgement that “God is good, [and God’s] steadfast love endures forever.”

Questions

1. When have you felt like “the stone that the builders rejected”? How has God transformed or healed you?

2. If you were to shout a phrase to praise God as Jesus rode into Jerusalem, what would you say?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

God of rejoicing, we share with joy-filled hearts in response to the presence of your Son. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others that they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 465, “Filled with Excitement”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 NRSV

Communion Statement

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience. Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

In preparation let’s sing from Community of Christ Sings 522, “Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ.”

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

Watercolor paper with names describing Jesus written in white crayon. Prepare one page per participant or plan to do this activity as a demonstration.

Watercolors

Paintbrushes

Cups of water Newspaper or plastic tablecloth to protect surfaces while painting Say: “During Jesus’s life and ministry, a lot of people couldn’t see who he was. They didn’t understand what he came to do. Jesus’s true nature and purpose were hidden from some people. But on Palm Sunday many people recognized who Jesus was. Today, we are going to discover some names describing Jesus, and we’ll talk about what each means.

Let participants use the watercolors to uncover the secret message of some important names that describe who Jesus was and what he came to do. After participants have revealed their word or name, have them share what they found and talk about what it means as a group.

Examples of Names

Prince of Peace Christ God with Us Lord Good Shepherd Living Word

Worship Resources

April 2023

Maundy Thursday

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Remember Me Additional Scriptures

Exodus 12:1-14; Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19; John 13:1-17, 31b-35; Doctrine and Covenants 165:3a

Finding Meaning in Remembrance

Prelude

Words of Institution 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Statement

With these words, Paul records the first remembering of Jesus’ words at the Last Supper. In this time of worship and service of Communion, let us together seek to find deeper meaning in the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper through remembrance, reconciliation, renewal, and peace.

Hymn of Gathering Sing at least twice “Halelu, avday Adonai” CCS 192 This psalm is thought to have been sung at the Last Supper. If it is unfamiliar, sing along with the vocal recording found on Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings.

OR “O Lord, Hear My Prayer” CCS 469 OR “The Peace of the Earth/La paz de la tierra” CCS 647 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Words of Counsel

Additional meaning is waiting to be discovered in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. Renewing covenant with Jesus Christ includes the call to live as peaceful human beings who personify Christ’s peace.

Spiritual blessing will be experienced when this call is emphasized as a vital aspect of the sacrament. Cherish opportunities to be spiritually formed by Christ’s sacred meal of remembrance, reconciliation, renewal, and peace.

-Stephen M. Veazey, Words of Counsel, 2019

Call to Remembrance

Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19

Prayer of Remembrance

Call to Reconciliation

Finding Meaning in Reconciliation

John 13:1-17, 31b-35

Hymn of Reconciliation

“Ososŏ/Come Now, O Prince of Peace” sing several times CCS 225 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

OR “Spirit of Christ, Remember Me” CCS 221 OR “Lord, Make Us Instruments” CCS 364

Prayer of Reconciliation

Call to Renewal

Finding Meaning in Renewal

Exodus 12:14 Doctrine and Covenants 165:3a

Hymn of Renewal

“Come and Fill/Confitemini Domino” sing at least twice CCS 235 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

OR “Wait for the Lord” CCS 399 Sing this chorus in the Taizé style. See the February 5, 2023, service for more on this style of singing.

OR “Come and Find the Quiet Center” CCS 151

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Hymn

of Preparation

“Eat This Bread” sing several times CCS 528 OR “Shadows Lengthen into Night” CCS 470 OR “Coming Together for Wine and for Bread” CCS 516

Invitation to Communion

Blessing and Serving of the Bread and Wine

Finding Meaning in Peace

Call to Peace

John 14:27

Hymn of Peace

“Nada te turbe” sing several times CCS 241 OR “My Peace” sing twice CCS 149 OR “Healer of Our Every Ill” CCS 547

Prayer for Peace

Light the peace candle.

Prayer: read the text of “Creator of Sunrises,” CCS 207 as the prayer. Add an Amen.

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org

Sending Forth

Remembering Christ, wait for the Lord, whose day is near. Go in peace and do not fear, the day of the Lord comes. Go forth in peace. Amen.

Postlude

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Year A,B,C – Letters Maundy Thursday

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Exploring the Scriptures

This text is an excellent example to help us see what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ in one’s environment. What does it mean for Christ’s disciples to live an alternative way to their culture?

Corinth was a multicultural, cosmopolitan city. People were coming and going through the city, bringing with them their cultural and religious practices. The competition for status and privilege ruled their social relations. This competition was reflected in the way the church community met. Paul was concerned at this. He reminded them of the moment that Christ introduced the Lord’s Supper and what it meant.

In First Century Corinth, formal meals reinforced class distinction. It would be unusual for people of different social statuses to eat together. The host and peers would have an elegant meal in an inner room, while people of lower status would eat ordinary food in other rooms. The servants did not eat until after they served the tables. So, the Christians in Corinth followed this usual practice of having such a meal when they assembled for worship. The rich and powerful ate first with better food, while others ate separately.

Paul was not happy with what was happening. They ought not to act this way, as they shared the Lord’s Supper. They were continuing to follow social distinctions, even among the community of disciples. It was not just bad manners–refusing to wait for others. They were reinforcing the distinction between people. They were behaving no different from anyone else. Such was not acceptable. Christ had torn down the social barriers between people, and the Lord’s table was a time to show this.

Christ had shown solidarity with those who were poor, marginalized, and displaced. He proclaimed a kingdom, or a new way of living, which in Jesus’s time was scandalous. There was a place at the table for everyone. As Jesus started sharing bread and wine, he was setting up a new covenant. In Christ, there is oneness and equality. We share the Lord’s Supper in remembrance of Christ. This covenant is at the heart of being a disciple of Jesus Christ. By sharing Communion, we are a new covenant people called to live an alternate community lifestyle. We are called to “Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b). The Lord supper is still a scandalous act of unashamed equality.

To remember is not just a simple mental act. It means we retake this way of life and reshape our actions. It is life-changing every time. Doing this in “Remembrance of Me” [Jesus] is not that we do not forget the past but that we see everyone around the table as equals. This focus continually shapes our lives.

When we come to the table, we cannot come while leaving others uninvited and unwelcomed. The table is for everyone. This meal reminds us there is work to do; there are vacant seats around the table. We are sent into the world with new eyes to proclaim another way

of living. For many, it is radical; it is scandalous! For many, it is what they have been waiting for!

Central Ideas

1. The disciples in Corinth were following cultural expectations and practices.

2. Disciples of Jesus live an alternative way to their culture.

3. Christ has torn down the social divisions between people.

4. The Lord’s Supper is a scandalous act of unashamed equality in which we live “Oneness and Equality in Christ.”

5. We remember Christ’s life, death, and resurrection and reshape our actions.

6. The table is for everyone.

Questions for the Speaker

1. What cultural practices do we bring into our lives as disciples? Which of these not Christlike?

2. In what ways do we need to challenge cultural practices that do not align with God’s vision?

3. How is Communion a scandalous act of unashamed equality?

4. How can we remember Jesus in ways that enable us to take his way of life; that reshapes our actions?

5. Who is being invited to the table?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Maundy Thursday

1 Corinthians 11:23–26 NRSV (A, B, C)

Gathering Welcome

Maundy Thursday is the night on which the Lord’s Supper was first celebrated. The central theme of that first Lord’s Supper was one of humble service. Jesus washed the feet of the disciples and commanded that they do the same for each other. Jesus taught that he came not to be served, but to serve; to share the hospitality of God and the intimacy of breaking bread together.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

Loving and humble God, today we make ourselves vulnerable to your Spirit. You showed the disciples vulnerability as you stooped to wash their feet. How might we have the same courage to do the same with our friends and neighbors as we seek to create peace? You create spaces for each person at your table and feed us in a new way, allowing us to take peace into our hearts. Grace us with that peace so that we may share it. May the voices of servant leaders focused on peace be uplifted over the voices of hatred and division so that all may find their place at the table. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Body Prayer

Say: Today our spiritual practice will be a body prayer. Show group members three postures they will experience for this spiritual exercise.

First posture: Head bowed with hands folded

Second posture: Sitting or standing with arms stretched outward.

Third posture: Both hands clasped over the heart.

Say: A chime will signal when to move into the next posture. You will not be offering words of prayer but instead will focus on sensing what type of prayer wants to emerge from you as you hold each posture.

Lead the group in three deep, cleansing breaths as preparation. Ring the chime.

First posture: Head bowed with hands folded (one minute). Ring the chime.

Second posture: Sitting or standing with arms stretched outward (one minute). Ring the chime.

Third posture: Both hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring the chime. Close with a spoken, “Amen.” Invite participants to share what they experienced as they engaged in the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table

1 Corinthians 11:23–26 NRSV

Corinth, the setting for today’s passage, was a multicultural, cosmopolitan city. The competition for status and privilege ruled social relations, and formal meals reinforced class distinction. This competition and class division was reflected in the way the church community met. Paul, bothered by this, reminded people of the moment Christ introduced the Lord’s Supper and what it meant.

Christ had torn down social barriers between people, and the Lord’s table was a time to show this. Christ had shown solidarity with the poor, marginalized, and displaced. He proclaimed a kingdom, or a new way of living, which in Jesus’s time was scandalous. There was a place at the table for everyone.

As Jesus started sharing bread and wine, he was setting up a new covenant of oneness and equality. We share the Lord’s Supper in remembrance of Christ. To remember is not just a simple mental act. It means we retake this way of life and reshape our actions. It is life-changing every time. Doing this in “remembrance of me” [Jesus] is not about remembering our past as much as it is seeing everyone around the table as equals.

This covenant is at the heart of being a disciple of Jesus Christ. Through Communion, we proclaim that we are a new covenant people, called to live an alternate community lifestyle, one that “courageously challenge[s] cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b).

When we come to the table, we cannot come while leaving others uninvited and unwelcomed. There are no places of honor, no person is more or less deserving. To act or think otherwise is to fail to “remember” him.

Questions

1. What cultural practices do we bring into our lives as disciples who are not Christ-like?

2. How can we remember Jesus in ways that enable us to take his way of life, that reshape our actions?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response. The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

God of humble service, we share our resources in response to the presence of your Son. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others that they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

Community of Christ Sings 464, “Holy Woman, Graceful Giver”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

• Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

• Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• Wet cleaning wipes

On Maundy Thursday, after Jesus had shared a meal with his disciples, he did something pretty radical…he washed their feet! He did this because he wanted them to know it was important to serve and take care of each other. Using cleaning wipes. take turns washing the participants’ hands.

What other opportunities can we take to serve people in our lives like Jesus did?

Worship Resources

7 April 2023

Good Friday Hebrews 10:16-25 Hold Fast to Hope

Additional Scriptures

Isaiah 52:13 53:12, Psalm 22, John 18:1 19:42

Preparation

Prominently display a large white candle (Christ candle) at the front of the worship space.

Prelude

Welcoming Statement

Light the Christ candle. As we enter this most somber of days, consider the faint flicker of hope that we find in the candlelight. Tonight, we will remember the story of Christ’s Passion through scripture and song. You are welcomed here in love and peace with the assurance of hope, even as we recollect the passion of our Lord.

Scripture and Song

The Passion Story - 1 Luke 22:39-40

Song

“Stay with Me” sing several times

CCS 468 OR “Wait for the Lord” sing several times CCS 399

The Passion Story - 2 Luke 22:41-46

Song

CCS 456 OR “How Long, O Lord” CCS 201

“’Tis Midnight and on Olive’s Brow”

The Passion Story - 3 Luke 22:47-53

Song

“Ah, Holy Jesus” stanzas 1-2 CCS 461 OR “Senzeni Na” CCS 200

The Passion Story - 4 Luke 22:54-62

Song

“Shadows Lengthen Into Night” stanzas 1-7

CCS 470 OR “De noche iremos/By Night, We Hasten” sing several times CCS 551 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

The Passion Story – 5 Luke 22:63-71

Song

“A Man of Ancient Time and Place” CCS 30 OR “Look at This Man, Born of God” CCS 26

The Passion Story - 6 Luke 23:1-7

Song Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

“In My Life, Lord” CCS 602 OR “O Senhor é a minha força/In the Lord I’ll Be Ever Thankful” CCS 129 sing several times

The Passion Story - 7 Luke 23:8-16

Song

“Arabs, Romans, Jews and Gentiles”

CCS 341 OR “How Long, O Lord” CCS 201

The Passion Story - 8 Luke 23:18-25

Song

CCS 184 OR “Through All the World a Hungry Christ” CCS 213

“Kyrie Eleison”

The Passion Story - 9 Luke 23:26-33

Song

“Were You There”

CCS 458 OR “Shadows Lengthen into Night” stanza 8 CCS 470

The Passion Story - 10 Luke 23:34-43

Song

“Jesus Remember Me” sing several times CCS 459 OR “Out of the Depths, O God We Call” CCS 228

The Passion Story - 11 Luke 23:44-49

Song

“O Sacred Head Now Wounded”

CCS 463 OR “Rejected and Despised” CCS 462

The Passion Story - 12 Luke 23:50-56

Song

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” CCS 206 OR “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” CCS 457

Blow out the Christ Candle.

Silent Recessional

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Years A,B,C – Letters Good Friday Hebrews 10:16-25

Exploring the Scripture

Hebrews was written to confront arguments that Jesus may not have been the expected Messiah since he had not come with military might. Although resurrected, Jesus had left the Earth, and disciples were facing constant persecution. The conversation centers on the meaning of Christ. Neither the author nor the audience is certain.

Although the author is unidentified, he was likely a Jewish Christian and perhaps part of the Pauline circle but not Paul. The audience, likely Jewish converts or perhaps a Jewish and Gentile mixture, struggled with disillusionment and faced persecution. They were in doubt and in danger of losing their Christian identity. They were in jeopardy of reverting to Judaism. It was a challenging and dark time for them.

Hebrews uses a theologically laden interpretation of scripture to reassure the listeners of the new covenant embodied in Christ and urge them to remain committed. Today’s text shares this message. Verses 16-18 is a quote from Jeremiah 31:33-34 with a final emphasis on forgiveness of sins. The writer was reassuring the listeners of this new covenant which showers God’s grace on them. This sacred relationship becomes God-centered and relational to both the Divine and others.

Using the words “mind” and “heart,” the author refers to the center of being the place where God, through Jesus Christ, is encountered. Then, after using Jeremiah’s message of the covenant, the writer transitions to a threefold appeal of faith, hope, and love: 1) Faith: “...let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith...” (v. 22); 2) Hope: “let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering...” (v.23); 3) Love: “And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds.” (v.24).

In conclusion, the orator focuses on “encouraging one another” through the challenging times (vs.25). We, too, like the early Christians, live in momentous times. Sometimes, we question the meaning of Christ in our time, place, and culture. Like them, we may even waiver in our commitment as disciples. As we commemorate Good Friday, we recognize these doubts and misgivings. Jesus is crucified. It is a time of darkness, grief, and sorrow. We lament and reflect on the meaning of Christ in our lives. Today’s text provides a suitable response.

We profess a sacred covenant relationship with God through Christ. We yearn to be in a relationship with the Divine. It is at the center of our being. God’s new covenant signals a future that is bright as we look toward Easter Sunday. God has made a covenant to be in a relationship with humanity. God yearns to be in deep and inclusive communion with us. We are called to join where God is at work in our world and to discern God’s will in our lives and the life of the community.

Like our text, we are called to encourage one another in times of struggle and recognize we are a community of hope and love grounded in a strong faith (trust) to live in the light of the Reign of God. On Good Friday, we celebrate that God has a new covenant with us in Jesus Christ. Our call is “to embody and live the concerns and passion of Christ.” (Doctrine and Covenants 164:9d). What a call and blessing!

Central Ideas

1. God is always in a sacred covenant relationship with us through Jesus Christ, even during times of challenge, darkness, and doubt.

2. Spiritual formation is essential as it invites us into God’s presence.

3. We are a people of faith, hope, and love who encourage one another.

Questions for the Speaker

1. When have you experienced dark and challenging times with a sense of doubt?

2. How do you define faith, hope, and love?

3. How do you experience faith, hope, and love? Examples?

4. How do you share your faith, hope, and love?

5. How do you encourage others?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Good Friday

Hebrews 10:16–25 NRSV (A, B, C)

Gathering Welcome

Good Friday is a somber gathering as we observe the death of Jesus on the cross. All candle flames are extinguished as we symbolically wait in darkness. Easter Sunday is coming but has not yet arrived.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

Beaten and broken God, across the world pain and oppression like you experienced on the first Good Friday still exist. Because of this, we continue to pray for peace. Peace that releases people from unbearable hurt, peace that feeds the hungry, peace that empowers the overwhelmed. May your peace be delivered to those places as an ember of faith, a small but hopeful beacon of light that shines in the darkness. Tear back the curtains so all may see peace anew. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Body Prayer

Say aloud: “Today our spiritual practice will be a body prayer.” Show the group members three postures they will experience.

First posture: head bowed with hands folded

Second posture: sitting or standing with arms stretched outward

Third posture: both hands clasped over the heart.

Lead the group in three deep, cleansing breaths as preparation. Ring a chime.

First posture: Head bowed with hands folded (one minute). Ring a chime.

Second posture: Sitting or standing with arms stretched outward (one minute). Ring a chime.

Third posture: Both hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring a chime. Close with a spoken “Amen.”

Invite participants to share what they experienced as they engaged in the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table

Hebrews 10:16–25 NRSV

“This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds,”

he also adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”

Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.

Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is, through his flesh), and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews was written to confront arguments that Jesus might not have been the expected Messiah because he had not come with military might. Although resurrected, Jesus had left the Earth, and disciples were facing constant persecution. The audience, likely Jewish converts or perhaps a Jewish and Gentile mixture, struggled with disillusionment and faced persecution. They were in doubt and in danger of losing their Christian identity. They were in jeopardy of reverting to Judaism. It was a challenging and dark time for them.

Hebrews reassures listeners of the new covenant and God’s grace embodied in Christ. It urges them to remain committed. The writer focuses on “encouraging one another” through challenging times.

We, too, like the early Christians, live in challenging times. Sometimes we question the meaning of Christ in our time, place, and culture. Like the recipients of this letter, we might even waver in our commitment as disciples. As we commemorate Good Friday, we recognize these doubts and misgivings. Jesus is crucified. It is a time of darkness, grief, and sorrow. We lament and reflect on the meaning of Christ in our lives.

We profess our sacred covenant relationship with God through Christ. We yearn to be in a relationship with the Divine. This covenant signals a future that is bright as we look toward Easter Sunday. We are called to join where God is at work in our world and to discern God’s will in our lives and the life of the community. We are called to encourage one another in times of struggle and recognize we are a community of hope and love grounded in a strong faith (trust) to live in the light of the reign of God.

Questions

1. When have you experienced dark and challenging times?

2. What provided hope in your time of darkness?

3. What encouraging words might you share with someone struggling with doubt regarding their relationship with God?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

God who knows all sorrow, we share our resources as a means to bring light into corners of darkness. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others that they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 456,“’Tis Midnight, and on Olive’s Brow”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts

for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need: Good Friday coloring sheet Coloring supplies

On Good Friday we remember the day that Jesus died on the cross. Before Jesus died, he prayed and asked God to forgive the people who put him on the cross. Forgiveness is very important. As you color your Good Friday picture, think of someone you need to forgive. Ask God to help you be forgiving like Jesus was.

Worship Resources

Holy Saturday

1 Peter 4:1-8

Be

Still

Additional Scriptures

Job 14:1-14; Psalm 31:1-4, 15-16; John 19:38-42

Preparation

This experience is designed to be a “come and go” opportunity for participants to take a few moments on Holy Saturday to enter sacred space and intentionally consider the Jesus journey and the sadness we feel at laying him in the tomb. As those who know what will come at dawn, encourage participants to not go too quickly from Good Friday to Easter without considering those first disciples and the many emotions and reactions they must have had to Jesus’ death. We sit with these thoughts and prayers and wait for the dawn.

Schedule this in a way that works best for your group. For some, a two-hour span of keeping the worship space available may be adequate. Others may prefer to hold a vigil, perhaps two hours before midnight. Still others may find it meaningful to take turns by scheduling participants to keep the vigil for a specified duration so that the worship space is always occupied.

Use low lighting. Provide a place at the front or center of the worship space for participants to light candles as a part of the waiting. Use rows of candles (wax or battery-operated) to create a twilight ambiance.

Have small, wooden crosses available for participants to pick up as they arrive.

Provide meditative music (live or recorded) throughout the experience. For this type of gathering, the music should be soft instrumental with no vocal or singing to allow the participants to meditate. Perhaps musicians can be scheduled to offer soft music ministry and when there is no musician available, fill in with recorded instrumental music.

Near the end of the designated time, start to slowly extinguish the candles. When all of the candles are out, end the music, and exit the worship space.

Prepare a simple meditation guide to be picked up as participants enter the worship space. Make sure you have permission to project or print the song texts. Here is an example:

8 April 2023

Be Still

A Holy Saturday Meditation Guide [insert beginning time – insert ending time]

Welcome to this self-directed experience in our worship space. Pick up a cross as a symbol of the crucifixion and take it with you. This time is yours to spend in the ways you find most meaningful. You will find [projected or printed] scriptures and song texts to consider. At any point you are invited to light candles as part of our vigil, waiting for Easter. Stay as long as you like. Please help create a solemn and introspective experience for all participants. May you find strength and courage to face this day in your own life.

Scriptures

A mortal, born of woman, few of days and full of trouble, comes up like a flower and withers, flees like a shadow and does not last.

For there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its shoots will not cease.

Though its root grows old in the earth, and its stump dies in the ground, yet at the scent of water it will bud and put forth branches like a young plant.

If mortals die, will they live again?

All the days of my service I would wait until my release should come.

-Job 14:1-2, 7-9, 14

In you, O Lord, I seek refuge; do not let me ever be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me. Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily. Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me.

You are indeed my rock and my fortress; for your name's sake lead me and guide me, My times are in your hand; save me in your steadfast love.

-Psalm 31:1-3, 15

When evening had come, and since it was the day of Preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath, Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate wondered if he were already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him whether he had been dead for some time. When he learned from the centurion that

he was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. Then Joseph bought a linen cloth, and taking down the body, wrapped it in the linen cloth, and laid it in a tomb that had been hewn out of the rock. He then rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where the body was laid. -Mark 15:42-47

Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same intention (for whoever has suffered in the flesh has finished with sin), so as to live for the rest of your earthly life no longer by human desires but by the will of God. The end of all things is near; therefore be serious and discipline yourselves for the sake of your prayers. Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.

-1 Peter 4:1-2, 7

Song texts

CCS 206 “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” stanza 2

CCS 199 “What Comfort Can Our Worship Bring”

CCS 195 “O God We Call”

CCS 454 “What Wondrous Love Is This” stanzas 1 and 2

CCS 461 “Ah, Holy Jesus”

When you are finished, go with God as you wait for the morning.

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Year A,B,C – Letters Holy Saturday 1 Peter 4:1-8

Exploring the Scripture

First Peter is a letter written to Christian communities in Asia Minor, in what is modern-day Turkey. The author of the letter appears to be a disciple of apostle Peter and writes around 90 CE (Common Era). Unlike some other letters, this letter was meant to be shared in many groups when they gathered for worship. It is written to the non-Jewish disciples) who made up most of the Christian communities in this region.

These new Christians were in an uncomfortable social predicament. They no longer take part in the rituals and behaviors of their past. Their former friends, surprised by their new behavior, alienate and persecute (verbally abuse) them. This letter offers counsel for those who have been baptized and have new life in Christ. The letter is meant to uphold their faith and remind them not to relapse into old behaviors.

The author clearly states they are to be “finished with sin.” They must no longer act in ways of excess that would be wanton and sinful. To be finished with sin is twofold. They are to live as witnesses of life in Christ by avoiding their former sinful practices. They are also to engage in acts that promote a loving community and offer Christ-like hospitality.

The counsel urges new believers to act in ways that are counter to their surrounding culture. Such is contrary to the human wish to “fit in” or “go along with the crowd.” The writer reminds the communities that while this will cause some to maltreat them, Christ was persecuted. Christians are called to live in this counter-cultural way of love and hospitality just as Christ lived. The writer warns that this takes discipline. Christians are to be intentional in upholding loving relationships with one another.

On Holy Saturday, we wait in a loving community for the dawn of Easter morning. We have the opportunity to reflect on the persecution Christ suffered. We examine our lives and recognize that we, too, are called to live counter to the hatred, consumerism, division, and fear of our surrounding culture. In this way, we bear witness to our new life in Christ.

Central Ideas

1. Christians are called to live in ways that are counter to the surrounding culture, even when others ridicule or deride you.

2. To be finished with sin is more than avoiding negative behaviors. It is also acting in ways of love and inclusion.

3. New life in Christ may mean times of suffering. On Holy Saturday, we remember the way of love was finally victorious over the ways of sin and death.

Questions for the Speaker

1. When have you felt teased, embarrassed, or “made fun of” because you did not follow the crowd?

2. What are some of the ways your congregation or group can live counter to the surrounding culture?

3. Sinful practices are more than a list of vices. It includes acting in ways that are not welcoming or loving. This Holy Saturday, what is your commitment to act in a more loving and hospitable manner?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Holy Saturday

1 Peter 4:1–8 NRSV (A, B, C)

Gathering Welcome

Holy Saturday also is called Easter Vigil. It is a day when Christians prayerfully await the resurrection of Christ.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

O Lord, we wait in darkness this Holy Saturday. We are uncomfortable, impatient. Remind us that many experience the darkness of despair, illness, and poverty every day. Are they not uncomfortable? Are they not impatient?

Let us spend this time of waiting in hopeful anticipation of the celebration of new life. And may our new life as community focus on finding ways of abolishing poverty and ending needless suffering. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Body Prayer

Say: Today our spiritual practice will be a body prayer. Show group members three postures they will experience for this spiritual exercise.

First posture: Head bowed with hands folded.

Second posture: Sitting or standing with arms stretched outward.

Third posture: Both hands clasped over the heart.

Lead the group in three deep, cleansing breaths as preparation. Ring the chime.

First posture: Head bowed with hands folded (one minute). Ring the chime.

Second posture: Sitting or standing with arms stretched outward (one minute). Ring the chime.

Third posture: Both hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring the chime.

Close with a spoken, “Amen.” Invite participants to share what they experienced as they engaged in the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table

1 Peter 4:1–8 NRSV

Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same intention (for whoever has suffered in the flesh has finished with sin), so as to live for the rest of your earthly life no longer by human desires but by the will of God. You have already spent enough time in doing what the Gentiles like to do, living in licentiousness, passions, drunkenness, revels, carousing, and lawless idolatry. They are surprised that you no longer join them in the same excesses of dissipation, and so they blaspheme. But they will have to give an accounting to him who stands ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was proclaimed even to the dead, so that, though they had been judged in the flesh as everyone is judged, they might live in the spirit as God does.

The end of all things is near; therefore be serious and discipline yourselves for the sake of your prayers. Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.

First Peter is a letter written to Christian communities in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey. Unlike some other letters, this letter was meant to be shared in many groups when they gathered for worship. It is written to the non-Jewish disciples who formed most Christian communities in this region.

These new Christians are in an uncomfortable social predicament. They no longer take part in the rituals and behaviors of their past. Their families and former friends, surprised by their new behavior, alienate and persecute (verbally abuse) them. This letter seeks to uphold their faith and remind them not to relapse.

The counsel urges new believers to act in ways counter to their surrounding culture. Such is contrary to the human wish to “fit in” or “go along with the crowd.” The writer reminds the communities that this probably will cause some to mistreat them. Even so, Christians are called to live in this countercultural way of love and hospitality, just as Christ lived. Such living requires discipline and an intentional effort to maintain loving relationships with one another.

Questions

1. When have you felt teased, embarrassed, or “made fun of” because you did not follow the crowd?

2. What are some ways you can live counter to the surrounding culture?

3. Sinful practices are more than a list of vices. They include acting in ways that are not welcoming or loving. This Holy Saturday, what is your commitment to act in a more loving and hospitable manner?

Sending

Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as

Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response. The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

God who waits, we share our resources as we rest in the hope of resurrection and new life. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others that they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

Community of Christ Sings 459, “Jesus, Remember Me”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

Electric tea lights

On Holy Saturday, Jesus’s followers went to the tomb where he was buried and held a vigil. During a vigil people come together for a cause or to remember people who have died. Sometimes people will hold candles, pray, or sing. Today, I am going to give you each a candle to hold while we have a vigil remembering Jesus. As we sit in silence, holding our candles, you might offer a prayer thanking God for Jesus’s example and asking for help in being the hands and feet of Jesus in the world.

Hold a short vigil, determined by the amount of time the participants can remain quiet without becoming restless. Draw the time to a close by thanking participants for holding a vigil for Jesus.

Worship Resources

April 2023

Easter Day, Resurrection of the Lord Colossians 3:1-4

Discover Life in Christ

Additional Scriptures

Jeremiah 31:1-6; Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24; Matthew 28:1-10; John 20:1-18; Acts 10:34-43; Doctrine and Covenants 155:7

Prelude Welcoming Hymn

“Mfurahini, Haleluya/Christ has Arisen, Alleluia”

CCS 471 Sing each stanza in a different language. Before the service, practice with the congregation.

OR “Good Christians All, Rejoice” CCS 479

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns

Call to Worship: "Quem Quaeritis Trope"*

Sometime in the 10th century, Aethelwold described in Regularis Concordia how the Quem Quaeritis Trope was performed during the Matins service on Easter morning. Divide the congregation down the middle and then they stand and face each other. Left side represents angels. Right side represents the Marys at the empty tomb. Print or project the reading.

Left side: Whom do you seek in the sepulcher, Oh followers of Christ?

Right side: Jesus of Nazareth, the Crucified, Oh heavenly ones.

Left side: He is not here; he is risen, just as he foretold. Go, announce that he is risen from the sepulcher.

Both sides face front.

ALL: He is risen! So come alive! Come alive! Discover the Christ anew and come alive!

Hymn

“Jesus Christ is Risen Today"

CCS 476

OR “That Easter Morn, at Break of Day” CCS 480

Invocation

Reflection "In His Eyes" read by one person

Someone said that to look into a person’s eyes is to see their very soul. The world sees into every pair of eyes and takes the things that fit its patterns. Takes, uses, evaluates, discards, and moves on.

His eyes look into mine and sees the child I am, the child searching for acceptance, for love, for care, for hope.

I look into eyes every day hoping that there will be acceptance, care, love.

The eyes show the acceptance of the world, the loss of hope and care and sometimes a hunger to find what I search for.

His eyes embrace the world and continue to offer those things all children cherish. Love, care, acceptance and hope.

Where is the place that I can go to escape the eyes of the world? The place where acceptance is, care and hope exist within the encompassing arms of love.

I am searching for that place, set apart. His eyes. His eyes, ever present. His eyes seeing me as a child. His child.

Set apart from the world and yet in the world. Someone said that to look into a person’s eyes is to see their very soul. In His eyes.

-Dean L. Robinson, used with permission Silence

Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle. Statement: “The Good News”

We are called to new life in Jesus Christ who shares with us a ministry of love and concern for all people. We find in Christ strength and purpose for our living. Our Savior brings to us life and light and joy. With God’s help we become ministers of our Risen Lord. But our lives must become disciplined in study, prayer, meditation, dialogue, and worship. The Spirit in us means we are empowered to speak and live the Good News everywhere.

From Prayers and Readings for Worship, vol. 1, Judy Judd, ed. (Herald House, 1987), 65. Judy Judd, ed. (Herald House, 1987), 65.

Sung Peace Prayer

“One Common Prayer”

sing several times CCS 313 OR “We Serve the Prince of Peace” CCS 348 Silence

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org

Response

Dwelling in the Word

First Reading: Ask four volunteers to read the scripture.

Directions for the participants: As you hear the scripture the first time through empty your mind and allow the words to wash over you.

Reader 1 So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.

Reader 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth,

Reader 3 for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

Reader 4 When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory. - Colossians 3:1-4

Second Reading: Directions for the participants: As you listen a second time, what word, phrase, or concept attracts your attention?

Readers 1 through 4 repeat the scripture reading, perhaps swapping parts.

Third Reading: Directions for the participants: During the final reading listen for the Spirit’s whisper. What insights do you hear for your life?

Readers 1 through 4 repeat the scripture reading, perhaps swapping parts.

Silence

Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn

“Christ Is Living/Cristo vive” CCS 481 Encourage singers to alternate languages throughout the song.

OR “Now the Green Blade Rises” CCS 482

Sharing in the Spoken Word Based on Colossians 3:1-4

Silence

Disciples’ Generous Response

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 155:7

Reflection Video: “Let Me Tell You a Story: Receiving Love with Gratitude”

– Community of Christ President Stephen M. Veazey shares about the time he received a special gift from a dear friend and how he had to learn to accept the generosity of another person with gratitude. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1Q6fTVIwwE

Generosity Hymn

“Though the Spirit’s Gifts Are Many”

CCS 334

OR “Somos el cuerpo de Cristo/We Are the Body of Christ” CCS 337

Statement

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at CofChrist.org/spiritualpractices-generosity/

Reflection: "Time to Slime"

One summer, I decided to completely renovate a bedroom. After building two closets, I sat on the floor, completely exhausted, and thanked God that I was able to do the job and finish that phase of the work. Just then, my two dogs, Pippin and Frodo, entered, saw me on the floor, and decided to attack. With great urgency and enthusiastic abandon, they kissed every inch of me they could, concentrating on my teeth. When they finished, I found myself completely rejuvenated and completely slimed.

I wonder what kind of world we would have if we kissed each other with great urgency and enthusiastic abandon? The kind of kiss that restores the tired, heals the brokenhearted, and nurtures the spirit?

Perhaps now is the time for us to throw away our masks and regard each other and the earth as God's creation. To set aside our need to dominate, our penchant toward violence. To experience our connections to each other, to God, and to the earth. To admit the sacred. To kiss each other. To bless each other. And to no longer be alone.

The time is now, my friends. Time to slime.

-Debra Bruch, used with permission

Closing Hymn

“Crown Him with Many Crowns”

OR “I Know That My Redeemer Lives!”

CCS 39

CCS 34

OR “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” CCS 99

Benediction Sending Forth

As God sent Jesus to be our salvation, so now you are sent out into the world to tell others, “I have seen the Lord.” Go from here blessed with joy and with hope for a peaceable kingdom. Step out in faith to proclaim the good news that Christ is risen. He is risen indeed! Alleluia! Amen.

Postlude

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Easter Day, Resurrection of the Lord Colossians 3:1-4

Exploring the Scripture

The letter to the Colossians is credited to Paul, although scholars debate his authorship. Regardless, the letter reflects Paul’s understanding of the gospel message and is consistent with Paul’s teachings and witness of Jesus Christ. This letter is pastoral, carrying affirmation and encouragement for the young church in Colossae. Also, this letter teaches about identity in Jesus Christ and what faithful discipleship looks like for individuals and a Christian community. Such advice is needed, especially in the presence of other voices seeking to contradict or lead them astray.

The first four verses of chapter 3 are especially poignant as an Easter reading. It is important to Paul the Colossians understand how the mystery that is God is revealed in and through Christ. He writes about the implications of God’s wonderful love for Christian identity and way of life. The use of baptismal language, which began in chapter two (2:12 “buried with him in baptism”) continues in the opening sentence, “…you have been raised with Christ,” deeply uniting all Christians with Jesus Christ and his place with God.

The instruction as we come up from the waters of baptism having been “buried with him” is to “set [our] minds on things that are above.” In other words, to align ourselves with Christ, who is one with God’s love and power and purposes, the source of all life. This instruction speaks to the present and future. Christ calls us to follow him and live the ways of love in our world today as a new creation. We are one with Christ and one another filled with the light of hope, knowing that death does not have the final word. We emerge from the waters of baptism (buried in death) to realize birth and new life through Christ now. Easter’s story of dying and rising is realized in baptism. It marks the beginning of our intentional, active participation in God’s story and realizing the peaceable reign of God.

In this act, we are loosed from the chains that bind, be they injustices of the world, rulers, conquerors, self-imposed worthiness standards, or our efforts to achieve wealth, status, or control. We are free to “follow Christ in the way that leads to God’s peace and discover the blessings of all of the dimensions of salvation” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:2a).

As described in Colossians, the story of Easter becomes our story. Our future is secure with the God of all creation. God is the author of boundless love and grace the mystery of life revealed through Jesus Christ made known to us through the continuing presence of the Holy Spirit. Our present is filled with possibilities for new beginnings, peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit. With Christ, new life, and the promise of becoming is always an open door.

Although not a part of today’s text, the following verses of Colossians 3 provide instruction for how first-century disciples might discern and wisely choose behaviors and practices that reflect the peace of Jesus Christ and nurture a life-giving community. In today’s world, embodying the Enduring Principles in our everyday lives is an example of how to “seek the things that are above” and align our lives with the love and purposes of God as we go out from our Easter morning celebrations to embrace new life in Christ. (To learn more about the Enduring Principles, go to https://www.cofchrist.org/enduring-principles.)

Central Ideas

1. The sacrament of baptism symbolizes the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and gives the promise of new life now and in the future.

2. When we align ourselves with Christ, who is one with the love, power, and purposes of God, we reflect the peace of Jesus Christ in our daily lives and nurture a life-giving community.

3. As disciples of Jesus Christ, our present is filled with possibilities for new beginnings, peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit.

Questions for the Speaker

1. How has your baptism represented death and resurrection in your life? How have you experienced new life or a new beginning in your journey with Jesus Christ?

2. What does it look like in today’s world to “set your mind(s) on things that are above?” What does it look like to align yourself with Christ and the love and purposes of God?

3. How have you or your congregation or community experienced release from the chains that bind (injustices of the world, rulers or conquerors, self-imposed worthiness standards, your efforts to achieve wealth, status, control, or other)?

4. How might embodying the Enduring Principles in our everyday lives be an example of how to “seek the things that are above” and align our lives with the love and purposes of God as we go out from our Easter morning celebrations to embrace new life in Christ?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Easter Sunday

Colossians 3:1–4 NRSV

Gathering Welcome

Easter is the day we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is the most important day in the Christian calendar as we rejoice in his eternal presence with us. Halleluiah!

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

Resurrected God, would we recognize you? Would we understand the incredible power you have over death? Grant us the peace that was present in the garden in those moments before your resurrection, and may we spread that peace as the women who first saw you alive spread the news of your resurrection! Help us to recognize opportunities for peace that once seemed extinguished now as new soil for growing peace. Clear away our doubts that peace may not come to pass and show us how to work to create peace in places across the world. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Centering Prayer

Centering prayer is a method of meditation used by Christians to sit in silence with God. This prayer helps us experience God’s presence within us. This Easter Day we will focus on the word rejoice. Slowly read the following instructions: Sit with relaxed posture and close your eyes. We will spend three minutes in centering prayer.

Breathe in a regular, natural rhythm. As you breathe in and out, say the word peace in your mind. Breathe in and out, focusing only on your word. When we are done, we will sit for two minutes in silence, eyes closed, listening to the silence.

When time is up, share these closing instructions: Offer a brief word of thanks to God, take a deep breath, and open your eyes when you are ready.

Sharing Around the Table

Colossians 3:1–4 NRSV

So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is yourlife is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.

The letter to the Colossians is pastoral, carrying affirmation and encouragement for the young church in Colossae. Also, this letter teaches about identity in Jesus Christ and what faithful discipleship looks like for individuals and a Christian community. Such advice is needed, especially in the presence of other voices seeking to contradict or lead them astray.

The first four verses of Chapter 3 are especially poignant as an Easter reading: “buried with him in baptism…you have been raised with Christ,” deeply uniting all Christians with Jesus Christ and his place with God.

We emerge from the waters of baptism to realize birth and new life through Christ. The instruction as we rise from the waters of baptism, having been “buried with him,” is to “set [our] minds on things that are above.” In other words, we are to align ourselves with Christ, who is one with God’s love, power, and purposes, the Source of all life. Easter’s story of dying and rising is realized in baptism. It marks the beginning of our intentional, active participation in God’s story, realizing the peaceable reign of God.

Questions

1. How have you experienced new life or a new beginning in your spiritual journey?

2. What does faithful discipleship look like for you and your faith community?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

—Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer for the Easter Season is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

God of rejoicing, we share our gifts joyfully and with thanksgiving in response to the generous gifts you have given us. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others that they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

Community of Christ Sings 478, “Woman, Weeping in the Garden”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

Today is Easter Sunday! I want you all to help me with a team scavenger hunt. I want you to find certain things. I’d like you to work together to find something that fits my description and bring it back to me. Once we have found all the items we need, we will talk about how each can remind us of important things about Easter.

Use the list below to send participants on a scavenger hunt. Although this is a group scavenger hunt, it is OK if you have more than one of each item on the list.

Say: First, I need you to find three of the same thing. It doesn’t matter what you find, you just need to make sure there are three.

Now, I need you to find something heavy.

Next, I need you to find something that is empty.

Now, I need you to find something shaped like a heart. Finally, find something you could use to share information.

Thank you all so much for your great searching! Each object you found can remind us something important about Easter.

As you explain what we can remember about Easter, share what object/objects participants found to represent each memory.

First, I asked you to find me three of something. Do you know why I would ask for three of something? I needed three of something because it reminds us that Jesus rose on the third day.

Next, I asked you to find something heavy. Why do you think I needed something heavy? I needed something heavy because it reminds us of the stone that was rolled away from Jesus’s tomb. This reminds us that nothing is strong enough to stop the power of God’s love.

Next, I asked you to find something empty. Do you know why I would need something empty? I needed something empty because Jesus’s followers found his tomb empty when they went to find him and discovered that he had risen.

Next, I asked you to find something heart-shaped. Do you know why I would ask you to find something heart-shaped? I needed something heart-shaped because it helps us remember that Jesus lives in our hearts.

Finally, I asked you to find something you could use to share information. Why do you think I wanted you to find this? I needed you to find something for sharing information because when the women discovered Jesus’s tomb was empty and that he had risen, they went and shared the good news. We, too, can share this good news through our words and actions. In doing so, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Thank all the participants for their help before giving everyone an object to put away while returning to their seats.

Worship Resources 16 April 2023

Second Sunday of Easter 1 Peter 1:3-9

Love, Believe, and Rejoice

Additional Scriptures

Psalm 16; John 20:19-31; Acts 2:14a, 22-32; Doctrine and Covenants 164:9d-f

Preparation

Bring a white trash bag, enough small pieces of paper and pencils for everybody for the Call to Worship. Set up a small table at the front. Hand out the paper and pencils when people enter the sanctuary. For "Hear and Respond," place a single chair by the podium, making sure the table does not block it.

Prelude

Welcoming Hymn

“Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” CCS 87 OR “Come Away from Rush and Hurry” CCS 83

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns

Call to Worship

Explain that everyone has things in life that are hard to carry; ask them to think about theirs and write them down on the paper. The papers will be read aloud. Do not write names on the papers. Give them time to do this. Then direct them to crumple their papers when they're ready and place them on the table. When all that will participate have done so invite people to the table to choose a paper. Be sure to make provision for those who cannot come to the table.

We all have difficult experiences and concerns. Sometimes, to see our blessings we have to release our concerns. But we can't do it alone. We're not supposed to do it alone. Please come to the front and choose a paper other than yours. Come to the podium and read it out loud. Then crumple the paper again and put it in the trash bag.

Hopefully, everyone will choose a paper and will read it out loud. This might get intense. Place the trash bag on the floor by the table for the rest of the service. When finished:

Christ is with you. We are with you. You are not alone.

Hymn

“We Are One in the Spirit”

CCS 359 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “Let Your Heart Be Broken” CCS 353

Invocation Response

Dwelling in the Word: 1 Peter 1:3-9

First Reading: Directions for the participants: As you hear the scripture the first time through empty your mind and allow the words to wash over you.

Second Reading: Directions for the participants: As you listen a second time, what word, phrase, or concept attracts your attention?

Third Reading: Directions for the participants: During the final reading listen for the Spirit’s whisper. What insights do you hear for your life?

Turn to a neighbor and share what you experienced with this text.

Hymn

"Seek Ye First"

CCS 599

The song is written in English, Spanish, and French. Develop a plan and direct the congregation when to sing in Spanish, when to sing in French, and when to sing in English.

OR “Rejoice, Ye Saints of Latter Days” CCS 81

Prayer for Peace

Light the Peace Candle. Prayer

Loving Creator God,

Living is difficult, but we sing to you our song. We know your love as we live within a world that seems to control who we are, what we do, and our perceptions. But as we hold up our experiences of your love, we know that we are not alone. Let our choices be responsible that promotes unity no matter how diverse we are. Guide us toward kindness and peace. Amen.

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org

Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn

“In Christ There Is No East or West” CCS 339

OR “Give Thanks for Life”

Sharing in the Spoken Word

Based on 1 Peter 1:3-9

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement

CCS 563

Part of being one with each other is recognizing our ability to give. Not only do we give our love and support to each other, but we also give our tithes so others can know God and feel our love and support. The need is great. All we need to do is to respond to the need that surrounds us as a global community.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Hymn to be sung as offering is received

“Help Us Express Your Love” CCS 621 OR “From You I Receive” sing several times CCS 611 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at www.CofChrist.org/disciples-generous-response tools.

Unison Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9 Project or print the text for all to be able to easily read out loud together.

"Hear and Respond" see script below

Closing Hymn

“I Have Called You by Your Name”

CCS 636 OR “Prophetic Church, the Future Waits” CCS 362 OR “May the God of Hope/Dios de la esperanza” CCS 652 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Sending Forth

Doctrine and Covenants 164:9:d-f

Postlude

“Hear and Respond” by Debra Bruch Used with permission. Characters Emotion

Mind Body Spirit

Props: Each character has a piece of paper with his or her allegorical character name boldly printed on it and attached to their clothing (EMOTION, MIND, BODY, SPIRIT).

Special Instructions: Age and gender are not specified and can be mixed. The drama is fast paced.

BODY enters and sits down on a chair. EMOTION follows in step with BODY, nearly stepping on BODY’s heels and sits on top of BODY. Sitting on BODY, EMOTION lets out a long and loud sigh and collapses fully against BODY. MIND enters right behind.)

Mind: Can you possibly be any more dramatic?

Body: muffled Get off of me!

Emotion: not moving I’m exhausted!

SPIRIT enters animated and happy. SPIRIT gives a little dance while humming a short section of “The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning.”

Mind: You’re happy.

Body: Get off of me!!

Spirit: We’re connected. We’re connected. We heard the word! ... Emotion, what are you doing?

Body: Help!

Spirit: Emotion, get off of Body.

Emotion: Who put you in charge?

Spirit: Get ... off.

Emotion: getting off of BODY All right. All right.

Spirit: Uh-oh. I can’t hear as well as I could a moment ago. What’s going on?

Body: Nothing.

Emotion: Nothing.

Mind: Nothing.

Spirit: You know what? That just might be the problem.

Emotion: Who cares?

Spirit: What do you mean, who cares? Emotion, didn’t you have a good time? Mind, weren’t you enlightened? Body, didn’t you feel invigorated?

Body: Yeah but now it’s over and ...

Spirit: It’s not over. Nothing’s over. It’s just begun.

Emotion: Oh please. You have it easy. You’re connected to God.

Spirit: We’re connected to God. We’re all one person, you know.

Emotion: One person?

Spirit: Yes, one person! Emotion, Mind, Spirit, Body ... all one person!

Mind: My heavens, we have Dissociative Identity Disorder.

Spirit: No. No.

Body: Is that like multiple personalities?

Mind: Yep.

Emotion: Really? Cool!

Spirit: Okay, you’ve got it all wrong. Together, we’re whole, we’re one.

Emotion: Can we choose our own names?

Spirit: We need to be healthy and that takes ...

Emotion: dramatic I’ll be Emotion the Magnificent!

Mind: You’ll be Emotion the Insane.

Body: I’ll be asleep.

Spirit: You’re not listening. You’re not listening!

Body: Okay, Spirit. Okay. I know what you want. You want us to stay connected to God. You want us to respond.

Spirit: Yes, I do.

Body: The thing is, I work for a living. I have a lot of stress in my life. I don’t always feel too good. I have enough to do without the added stress, without any more responsibility.

Emotion: whining I’m so ... so ... overwhelmed!

Mind: I get really energetic, but then there’s the low, you know? I don’t like it.

Spirit: I know and that’s my point. If we work together and live a holistic life, you won’t experience the low and you won’t feel stressed.

Mind: Doesn’t make sense.

Emotion: Not the sharpest tack in the box today, are ya?

Spirit: Look. All we have to do is focus outward. Not inward, but outward.

Emotion: I can’t do that.

Spirit: Sure you can, Emotion. I’ve seen you do it. You’ve felt compassion for other people. That’s focusing outward you know.

Emotion: whining Let me put it another way. I don’t wanna.

Mind: You’re whining, Emotion.

Body: It IS pretty stressful.

Spirit: Look around you. Everything’s here to help you.

Mind: What do you mean?

Spirit: The setting sun, the sky, the trees, the earth itself will renew us. Fellowship renews us. Worship renews us. All we have to do is focus outward and the stress lowers.

Body: That’s it?

Spirit: You want energy? You want a way to connect to God without the low? Wake up in the morning and ask God, “What have you got on today that I can be a part of?” Then focus outward and expect surprises.

Emotion: Really? And what if we don’t LIKE surprises?

Spirit: We focus outward and we can really help people without feeling that we have more responsibility. A smile helps. Listening to somebody helps. Just caring helps. Stewardship helps.

Emotion: Oh, that.

Spirit: The more we focus outward and respond to whatever need we see, the better we can hear God. Get it? It’s a cycle. We hear, we respond, we hear, we respond and hear again. And it’s the best high we can ever experience.

Body: And we can hear God? Even at work?

Spirit: Even at work. Even when things go wrong. We need to work together. We need to live a holistic life. We need to be healthy. Even you, Body!

Mind: Okay. Fine. Let’s do it.

Body: I’m game.

Spirit: “What have you got on today that I can be a part of?” It’s a big adventure!

Emotion: as they exit Does this mean I can’t whine anymore?

Spirit: Oh sure, you can whine.

SPIRIT picks up the trash bag and carries it off.

Mind: Hey, it’s what you do.

Body: At least you’re good at something!

Emotion: Nice. Thanks. Thanks a lot. Love you too!

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Second Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 1:3-9

Exploring the Scripture

An old saying is, “The purpose of preaching is to comfort the distressed and distress the comfortable.” The First Letter of Peter provides inspiring advice for those in need of being comforted. Today’s passage begins a message of hope to people who are oppressed. Bible scholars propose the intended audiences are Gentile slaves and concubines in Asia Minor who had little power or possibility to free themselves from being dominated by those who “owned” them. These opening verses of the First Letter of Peter identify the type of enduring faith in Christ that provides hope, an eternal inheritance, joy, and salvation even when circumstances might otherwise lead to despair.

The counsel given to these distressed people is to persist in peaceful hope because the risen Christ creates a divine inheritance for the faithful that any earthly power cannot reduce. This counsel is given in contrast to the violent uprisings during the first century CE other distressed people chose to start. The inheritance described in the passage emerges through an enduring faith that does not rely on empirical evidence or physical experience with Jesus but a knowledge, belief, relationship, and trust in the resurrected Christ. This valuable inheritance promised by God is eternal and triumphs over the physical suffering of the faithful. This reality is the essence of having divine joy.

Underlying the entire First Letter of Peter is the paradoxical question about the nature of God. “How can an omnipotent, all-loving God allow great evils that create great suffering?” The question continues to be an essential question of theology; however, as the writer the letter proposes, the faith community’s suffering connects them to the cross. Christ’s suffering creates a background for our suffering, and the Christ-modeled response to oppression and domination is through nonviolence. Although some people reading the First Letter of Peter (such as pro-slavery and anti-women’s-rights advocates) decided passive acceptance of oppression was the will of God; God’s judgment referenced by the prophets and by Jesus denounces oppressors and dominators. The God’s judgment is righteousness resulting in humility, love, hospitality, health, and wholeness for all creation. The salvation of souls is less to do with a future event and more to do with how people receive and live in God’s righteousness in the present.

Living in response to the resurrection calls people to promote peace, well-being, and comfort for all suffering and struggling with life circumstances. Living in response to the resurrection also calls people to challenge those who create and perpetuate the means of oppression and suffering. When we genuinely pay attention to its message, resurrection, new life in Christ provides comfort to the distressed and disruption for the comfortable.

Central Ideas

1. The resurrected Christ shows God’s great love and provides hope to people in despair.

2. Through Christ, God provides a divine inheritance for the faithful who suffer.

3. Earthly powers cannot reduce the promise of God’s inheritance for people.

Questions for the Speaker

1. Who, today, are the oppressed people most in need of a message of hope and divine inheritance?

2. How do we experience the promise of God as people who are distressed? As people who are comfortable?

3. How do we enliven genuine faith that places our trust more in Christ and less in life-ease and pleasures?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Second Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 1:3–9 NRSV Gathering

Welcome

Today is the second Sunday of the Easter Season. The Easter Season lasts fifty days and concludes with the Day of Pentecost.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

Creator God, this day embrace those without power. Protect them from the whims of the world. Give them the courage to stand for the right to separate themselves from a world that offers no hope. Shine the light of your goodness in front of them and guide them into your vision for them. A vision of joy and satisfaction. Sharing in a world community of love. Help each of us spread this good news as we travel through our own lives. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Centering Prayer

Centering prayer is a method of meditation used by Christians to sit in silence with God. This prayer helps us experience God’s presence within us. This day we will focus on the word rejoice. Slowly read the following instructions: Sit with relaxed posture and close your eyes. We will spend three minutes in centering prayer.

Breathe in a regular, natural rhythm. As you breathe in and out, say the word peace in your mind. Breathe in and out, focusing only on your word. When we are done we will sit for two minutes in silence, eyes closed, listening to the silence.

When time is up, share these closing instructions: Offer a brief word of thanks to God, take a deep breath, and open your eyes when you are ready.

Sharing Around the Table

1 Peter 1:3–9 NRSV

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested by fire may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

The First Letter of Peter provides inspiring advice for those in need of being comforted. Today’s passage begins a message of hope to people who are oppressed. Bible scholars propose the intended audiences are Gentile slaves and concubines in Asia Minor who had little power or possibility to free themselves from those who “owned” them.

Although these opening verses identify the type of enduring faith in Christ that provides hope, an eternal inheritance, joy, and salvation, even when circumstances might otherwise lead to despair, they are not in any way meant to be used to justify or diminish the fact that those circumstances are contrary to the will of God.

The counsel given to these distressed people is to persist in peaceful hope, because the Risen Christ creates a divine inheritance for the faithful that any earthly power cannot reduce. The inheritance described in the passage emerges through an enduring faith that does not rely on empirical evidence or physical experience with Jesus, but a knowledge, belief, relationship, and trust in the resurrected Christ. This valuable inheritance ultimately will triumph over the physical suffering of the faithful.

As the writer of the letter proposes, the faith community’s suffering connects it to the cross. Christ’s suffering creates a background for our suffering, and the Christ-modeled response to oppression and domination is active resistance through nonviolence.

God’s judgment referenced by the prophets and by Jesus denounces oppressors and dominators. God’s judgment is righteousness resulting in humility, love, hospitality, health, and wholeness for all creation. The salvation of souls is less to do with a future event or “going to heaven,” and more to do with how people receive and live in God’s righteousness in the present.

Questions

1. Who, today, are the oppressed people most in need of a message of hope and divine inheritance?

2. How do we experience the promise of God as people who are distressed; as people who are comfortable?

3. To “receive and live in God’s righteousness in the present,” is to live as people of God’s reign now, every day, in every way. What does this look like to you? What changes does it call you to make?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

This offering prayer for the Easter Season is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

Community of Christ Sings 475, “Lift Your Glad Voices”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

• Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

• Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• a living plant or picture of a living plant

• a dead plant or picture of a dead plant

• seeds or seed paper

Say: Look at this living plant. What do you know about things that are alive?

• They grow.

• They are flexible.

• They give back to the world.

• They are resilient.

• They get bigger and stronger.

• They have deep roots.

Look at this dead plant. What do you know about things that are not alive?

• They don’t grow.

• They are brittle and inflexible.

• They stay the same

• They are weak.

• They are not rooted.

In today’s scripture, we are told that God has given us a LIVING hope. When our hope is alive, just like other living things, it is flexible and resilient. It grows and becomes big and strong. It is rooted deeply and makes the world a better place.

I am going to give each of you seeds to take with you and plant. As you watch these plants grow, remember the hope of Jesus Christ that is alive in you!

Worship Resources 23 April 2023

Third Sunday of Easter 1 Peter 1:17-23 Trust in God

Additional Scriptures

Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19; Luke 24:13-35; Acts 2:14a, 36-41; Doctrine and Covenants 159:7-8

Preparation

Four participants will be needed for the Call to Worship. One has an apple. A chair is set up on the stage front and center. For Lighting the Peace Candle, hand out electric candles to everyone.

Prelude

Welcoming Hymn

“Dios está aquí/God is Here Today” sing several times CCS 150 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “As the Deer” sing twice CCS 148

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns

Call to Worship

NOTE: Person 4 carries an apple.

Person 1: sits at the front on a chair I’m hungry.

Person 2: enters and crosses the stage, hesitates next to, not in front of, Person 1 Trust in God. God loves you. Exits

Person 1: I’m hungry.

Person 3: enters and crosses the stage, hesitates next to, not in front of, Person 1 My thoughts and prayers go out for you. Exits

Person 1: I’m hungry.

Person 4: enters and crosses the stage, hesitates next to, not in front of, Person 1 Here ya go Hands Person 1 an apple. Exits

Person 1: watches Person 4 leave with gratitude. Exits

Invocation Response

Disciples’ Generous Response

Statement

Nobody wants you to give money to the church. Everybody wants you to give generously to help the people continue to minister to all of creation around the globe. Giving tithes is the mechanism to make that happen in places and circumstances beyond our own realm of possibilities.

Sometimes it means helping maintain operations necessary to minister, sometimes it means helping other people minister in ways we can’t, and sometimes it means helping create resources to help people minister. Our call is to live as a community, and we need each other and our resources to reach out in Love.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at www.CofChrist.org/disciples-generous-response tools.

Scripture Reading

1 Peter 1:17-23

Hymn

CCS 18 OR “Rain Down” CCS 260

“God of Wonder, God of Thunder”

Sharing in the Spoken Word

Based on 1 Peter 1:17-23

Prayer for Peace

Light the Peace Candle Row by row, have people turn on their candles. Keep them lit for the rest of the service.

Prayer

O Lord of all creation, We meet you in this sacred time to express the yearning in our hearts for peace. Enfold each of us with your mantel of great inner calm as we live in an age of confusion. Show us the real and lasting truths of your peace that we may share with others. There is a great concern that all might be treated with humanity, as individuals, as equals. Grant that we may choose the best paths to alleviate this suffering. May we seek out and acknowledge the divine in every creature of your

world. Give us the discerning wisdom to leave open areas in our hearts for our differences. Teach us tolerance. Help us always uphold the image of Jesus Christ, your Son, in whose name we pray. Amen. - Barbara L. Beal

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org

Words of Trust and Affirmation Doctrine and Covenants 159:7-8

Closing Hymn

“Called by Christ to Love Each Other”

CCS 577 OR “Joy to the World!” CCS 408

Benediction

Sending Forth Trust in God to help you respond to need in the world, to feed the hungry, to restore the earth. Remember that we belong to God and to each other. Take your candle into the world. Be light for others. Go in peace.

Postlude

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Year A – Letters

Third Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 1:17-23

Exploring the Scripture

1 Peter is a pastorally rich letter written most likely to converted Gentiles. There continue to be Jewish connections, however. Peter opens his letter stating, “to the exiles of the diaspora” diaspora at first defining those living outside Palestine. And in this sense, those living in northern Asia Minor where people believed much differently. The letter could be taken in a figurative sense that these believers are not at home in this physical world. Often, this group of new Christians was on the social and political fringes of their communities. Peter writes to offer hope and support to this new faith community.

This text describes how to live and behave towards one another. It is also a reminder of Jesus who died for them and to trust in the enduring word of God. “To live in reverent fear during the time of your exile” reminds the newly converted Gentiles that they live in an environment that is not familiar to their newfound faith. They may feel like aliens in a strange land. Gentiles may be living away from their homelands, but Christians also often felt their true homeland was heaven. Peter reminds them living in “reverent fear” is not a frightened state. “Fearing” God means something different. “Reverent fear” is reverence and faith that leads us to obey God’s commandments.

Peter quotes from Proverbs (Hebrew Bible), “The fear of theLORD is the beginning of knowledge” (7:1). Another Jewish connection reminder. Peter’s exile language also connects the Exodus story of being in the wilderness, saved by God’s grace.

Peter reminds them, “they were ransomed from what they inherited from their ancestors, not with silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” Gold and silver were the common currency needed for buying someone out of slavery. Yet, their deliverance was not with things of this world but by the precious blood of Christ. Redemption through Christ is more precious than any form of exchange on Earth.

It is in our response to Christ’s redemption that we give God glory (verse 21). Peter reminds his audience, “your faith and hope are set on God by your obedience to the truth have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart.” (verse 22). As God loves you, love one another deeply from the heart. Another offering of hope and support that they (and we) are not alone.

And finally, Peter reflects on their conversions, “you have been born anew through the living and enduring word of God.” When we read, “you have been born anew,” this often is taken as a personal, even private experience. Often it is a way of talking about our relationship with God or an experience that affected our conversion. However, it is essential to remember that this phrase is more about the more significant spiritual experience than ethical conduct. Connecting the idea of born again with our acts to love one another intensely reminds us that if we are radically changed (born again) by the gospel, God’s love, we act as God would to all humankind. The call is to live consistently with the gospel.

Central Ideas

1. We are connected throughout history in times of exile; God never leaves us.

2. We are ransomed with the blood of Christ.

3. Trust in God; be born anew through the living word of God. Live the radical message of the gospel

Questions for the Speaker

1. When have you felt in exile, either physically or spiritually?

2. What does it mean to live the message of the gospel radically?

3. Where do you find grace when trying to live the message of Peter’s letter?

4. If you were to write a letter to new Christian converts or a congregation recommitting its life to Christ’s mission, what would you say?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Third Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 1:17–23 NRSV

Gathering

Welcome

Today is the third Sunday of the Easter Season. The Easter Season lasts fifty days and concludes with the Day of Pentecost.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

Creator God, we come to this place to worship you, but we also come to find peace. Open our hearts to you. Still our spirits and free our minds to hear your voice. May this flame of peace warm each of us to your Spirit of blessing, to your calming presence, and to your healing love. May this sacred time together prepare us to be peacemakers in our homes…schools…workplaces…cities…countries…and world. Make us one, loving God, through your peace. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Centering Prayer

When time is up, share these closing instructions: Offer a brief word of thanks to God, take a deep breath, and open your eyes when you are ready.

Sharing Around the Table

1 Peter 1:17–23 NRSV

If you invoke as Father the one who judges all people impartially according to their deeds, live in reverent fear during the time of your exile. You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish. He was destined before the foundation of the world, but was revealed at the end of the ages for your sake. Through him you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God.

Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart. You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.

Peter writes to give hope and support to this new community. Those reading the letter in its original context were living in areas where their beliefs contrasted distinctly to those of the prevailing culture. To “live in reverent fear during the time of your exile” acknowledges that the newly converted community lives in an environment unfamiliar to its newfound faith.

This text describes how to live and behave toward one another and to trust in the enduring purposes of God. Peter reminds them that living in “reverent fear” is not a frightened state. “Fearing” God means something different. “Reverent fear” is reverence and faith that leads us to obey God’s commandments.

Peter reminds them they “were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from [their] ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” Gold and silver were the common currency needed for buying someone out of slavery. Yet, their deliverance was not with things of this world. Redemption through Christ is more precious than any form of exchange on Earth.

Finally, Peter reflects on their conversions: “You have been born anew…through the living and enduring word of God.” When we read, “you have been born anew,” this often is taken as a personal, even private experience. However, connecting the idea of born again with our acts to love one another intensely reminds us that if we are radically changed by the gospel, God’s love, we act as God would to all humankind. That is where we find hope and comfort.

Questions

1. When have you felt in exile, physically or spiritually?

2. What does it mean to radically live the message of the gospel?

3. If you were to write a letter to new Christians or a group recommitting its life to Christ’s mission, what would you say?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as

Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

This offering prayer for the Easter Season is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 219, “Restore in Us, O God”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• pipe cleaners in various colors

Say: What does love look like to you? Use the pipe cleaners to represent love.

Allow participants to share what they created.

Say: Those are all wonderful understandings of love! In today’s scripture we are called to love one another deeply.

When our love is deep, it won’t be easily influenced or diminished. Just as God’s love for us is unconditional, we are called to love others without expectation.

Allow participants to take their pipe-cleaner creations with them as they return to their seats.

Worship Resources 30 April 2023

Fourth Sunday of Easter 1 Peter 2:19-25 Find Wholeness

Additional Scriptures

Psalm 23, John 10:1-10, Acts 2:42-47, Doctrine and Covenants 165:1d

Preparation

The Reflection needs a leader, four individuals, and the congregation. Make sure the individuals have the reading before the service starts.

For the Visio Divina, ahead of time you will need to order Streams of Living Water from Herald House at: https://www.heraldhouse.org/products/streams-of-livingwater?_pos=10&_sid=46912bd57&_ss=r. If you attended the 2019 World Conference, you received a copy of this booklet. See below for more information.

Prelude

Welcoming

Hymn

“Takwaba Uwabanga Yesu!/There’s No One Like Jesus!”

CCS 121 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. If this is unfamiliar, sing along with the vocal recording found on Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings OR “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name!” CCS 105

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns

Call to Worship

Leader: Who will hear my voice?

Congregation: I will hear your voice.

Leader: I know you by your name.

Congregation: I know your voice.

Leader: You are my beloved.

Congregation: We are beloved.

Hymn “I Have Called You by Your Name”

CCS 636 OR “Lord of All Hopefulness” CCS 193

Invocation Response

Reflection: “A People of God”

Leader: Held captive. Enslaved. Our Pharaoh holding us in bondage.

Reader 1 Offered freedom. Set on a journey. Wandering. Finding fault with our leaders. Embracing anything that looks easier than listening. Easier than obeying.

Congregation: Easier than being a People of God.

Leader: The desert we take with us is comfortable.

Reader 2: The yearning for the old days, the old ways, most desirable. Why us? What did we do to deserve this hardship? Let us worship the gods of convenience. Of comfort. Of familiarity.

Let us return to enslavement. Let us embrace the bondage of our choosing.

Congregation: Leave us as You found us. Not as a People of God.

Leader: How long?

Reader 3: How long must we wander searching for this promised land?

This Zion. New Jeru Salem. Eden? We have looked to the hills. Eyes hooded against the light. Your Light. We have listened for your voice and heard the clamor of the world. Are we to die in the desert we continue to choose?

Congregation: Joke on us as the world watches and laughs at our dumb trust. A People of God

Leader: Help us God.

Reader 4: Help us to become blind to memories of yesterday tinged with nostalgia. Help us to hear the beat of your heart in the light of today.

Enable us to see and touch and taste your presence in the sacraments. Open our hearts to experience you in new and different ways.

Lift us from our empty deserts that barricade us from your green pastures.

Congregation: Wash and cleanse us of our indifference. Make of us A People of God. -Dean L. Robinson, used with permission

Prayer for Peace

Hymn of Peace “Peace among Earth’s Peoples” CCS 448 OR God, Renew Us by Your Spirit” CCS 237

Light the Peace Candle

Visio Divina: The Temple Worshiper’s Path

Community of Christ’s Temple in Independence, Missouri, USA, is dedicated to the pursuit of peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit. Using images from the Temple’s Worshiper’s Path, let us silently pray and reflect on peace.

Allow sufficient time to view projected images. Streams of Living Water is available from Herald House at: https://www.heraldhouse.org/products/streamsof-living-water?_pos=10&_sid=46912bd57&_ss=r. If possible, purchase a booklet for each family. If not possible, purchase one copy and project the images of the worshiper’s path. If you attended the 2019 World Conference, you received a copy of this booklet.

Prayer

God of Peace, May we find your peace present around us. As we journey inward, we see your peace in a grove of trees. We hear your peace in a burning bush. We know your peace in a parent’s welcome.

We are reminded of Jesus’ cruel death at the hands of civil and religious authorities. And yet, there is peace, somehow, in the shadow of the cross, in the beauty of a flower, in the tree of life. Still our lives yearn for mercy, for love, for knowing you. On the inward journey of peace, we often pass through the dark night of the soul. We thirst for you. We can experience your peace in a single drop of living water.

We are present God. We are here. May your peace wash over us and inspire us. May we dwell daily in your house of peace forever. And yet we hear the call:

The call to an outward journey of peace. We are called to share the peace of Christ the redeemer as if to a world of wheat: white and ready for harvest. We shall leave this place. Though leaving may feel like we are pressing against impossibly heavy barriers, yet the doorway of peace is light. We live in our tiny dot in a plaza of nations. We pray peace for the nations.

May we live into our dedication and be unified as people committed to peace, reconciliation and healing of the spirit. We pray in Jesus name. Amen. -Glenn Johnson, adapted

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:19-25

Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn

“Find Your Wholeness” CCS 643 OR “The Peace of the Earth” CCS 647 OR “In the Quiet of This Day” CCS 161

Sharing in the Spoken Word

Based on 1 Peter 2:19-25

OR Video "Peace in the Storm" – President Stephen M. Veazey reminds us that a faith centered in Jesus, the peaceful One, anchors us through life's storms in this thought-provoking sermon from the "Witness the Word" March 2021 release (15 minutes). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8PM4X76o54

Reflection

Remember a time in your life when you were distraught or in despair and somebody helped you. Or remember a time when you helped someone who was in need. Turn to a neighbor and share this experience. Did you discern God working in your life during those times?

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Please, Creator, help us to discern the needs of people and creation. Within our realm of opportunity and circumstance, help us “undertake compassionate and just actions to abolish poverty and end needless suffering. Pursue peace on and for the Earth.” (Doctrine and Covenants 165:1d.) Bless our offerings this day.

For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at www.CofChrist.org/disciples-generous-response tools.

Unison Reading of Affirmation: Psalm 23 print or project the text for all to see

Hymn of Affirmation

“My Shepherd Will Supply My Need” CCS 247 OR “The Lord’s My Shepherd” CCS 259 OR “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” CCS 262 OR “O Lord, My Shepherd” CCS 264

Sending Forth

Surely goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives, And we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Go in Peace.

Postlude

Sermon Helps

Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Fourth Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 2:19-25

Exploring the Scripture

On this fourth Sunday following Easter, the message from 1 Peter upholds the challenge and importance of living a new life in Christ.

On the surface, this text sounds like a pep talk to encourage believers to live faithfully and to do what is right, even when suffering. Carefully listening to the text, these words call us to consider where strength and courage come from as we look to the life of Jesus and how he lived, died, and was resurrected for us.

To grasp this text’s significance, we must first understand this text in its first-century setting. Peter is writing to small communities of new Christians in a region we know today as Turkey. This part of the author’s letter speaks to household slaves common in the Roman Empire. These slaves faced abuse and suffering from their masters for converting to this new movement known as Christianity. Since Christianity was still a tiny movement, Christians did not influence the dominant Roman, Greek, and Jewish cultures. These new disciples of Christ were still learning how to live this new life as Christians and what it meant amid their intense suffering.

In his message, Peter encourages his readers to live lives modeled on what they learned about Jesus. For it was in the suffering Jesus endured that these slaves could find strength and freedom deeply in their souls. They could be assured that God was with them as they tried to make the right choices about how they lived.

How do we hear this text today in our varied global cultures?

Understand this passage does not express any support for the acceptability of violence, abuse, and needless suffering. It does not support racism or permit to enslave others or treat others as being less-than. It does not promote that being abused, and suffering is the only way to receive God’s acceptance.

It does, however, challenge us to consider that in the life of Jesus and what God did through Christ on Easter, we have choices for how we live. In looking at how Jesus lived for all, we seek inner strength and peace to follow the peaceable one. To live a life modeled on the ethic of Christ’s peace is about restoring the abundant life Jesus came to make whole (Jn 10:10).

This text invites us to consider how we will live as disciples of the risen Christ. Will we allow ourselves to be enslaved by our fears of rejection of others because of our commitment to follow Christ? Will we allow derogatory words and acts to reduce our faith and hope? Or will we live with courage, hope, trust, and assurance in what God did through Christ on Easter and what God can and will do through our lives, today, wherever we live in the world?

In Christ, we can live an ethic of peace. As Community of Christ, we are on a journey of what it means to uphold and promote nonviolence in our world that models the life of Jesus. In this Easter season and the new life that is offered to us, the question of nonviolence and ending needless suffering is a journey that begins in our hearts and minds. Then we begin to live this way with others that allow the peace of Christ to be genuine in the world.

Central Ideas

1. The hope of Easter gives us courage and strength to live the peace of Christ in our suffering and joy.

2. Jesus, through his suffering, lived a life that reflected God’s love. We are called to live that love and peace, even when we suffer from the injustices that affect human life worldwide.

3. Living the ethic of Christ’s peace for all reflects our covenant to follow Jesus, the peaceable one.

Questions for the Speaker

1. How does this text challenge you and your congregation to model the problematic choices and acts of Jesus, the peaceable one?

2. How do you see members of the congregation or people in your community or village reflecting the presence of peace, joy, and freedom, even in their suffering?

3. When have you had to find the courage and strength to trust God amid your suffering and experiences of injustice?

4. How does the hope of Easter continue to offer hope for how we live as disciples of the living Christ?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources

Year A, Letters

Fourth Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 2:19–25 NRSV

Gathering

Welcome

Today is the fourth Sunday of the Easter season. The Easter season lasts fifty days and concludes with the Day of Pentecost.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.

God of wonder and grace, we can’t begin to comprehend the love you show us, a love that made you willing to come among us in flesh and bone, to endure the hardship of humanity. To move among the persecuted and marginalized so we might learn new ways to be in relationship with you and one another.

Open our eyes and hearts to the message you have for us, to the opportunities you provide each day to reach out to others and live your love and compassion to truly see our neighbor and extend your hands.

We pause now, Lord, that we might listen. Listen to your promptings, guidance, and desires for our lives that you may speak the ways we can bring peace; that we might hear your voice and respond. Pause for one to two minutes of silence.

In Jesus’s name, we pray. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Centering Prayer

Centering prayer is a method of meditation used by Christians to sit in silence with God. This prayer helps us experience God’s presence within us. This day we will focus on the word rejoice

Slowly read the following instructions: Sit with relaxed posture and close your eyes. We will spend three minutes in centering prayer.

Breathe in a regular, natural rhythm.

As you breathe in and out, say the word rejoice in your mind. Breathe in and out, focusing only on your word.

When we are done, we will sit for two minutes in silence, eyes closed, listening to the silence.

When time is up, share these closing instructions:

Offer a brief word of thanks to God. Take a deep breath and open your eyes when you are ready.

Sharing Around the Table

1 Peter 2:19–25 NRSV

For it is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God’s approval. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in his steps.

“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

When he was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.

On the surface, this text sounds like a pep talk to encourage believers to live faithfully and do what is right, even when suffering. Carefully listening to the text, allows us to hear where strength and courage come from, as we look to the life of Jesus and how he lived, died, and was resurrected.

This part of Peter’s letter speaks to household slaves. These slaves faced abuse and suffering from their masters, not only in their roles as slaves, but for converting to this new movement known as Christianity. Christianity was still a tiny movement with little influence. New Christians were seen as anti-social refusing to participate in the culturally normative practices of that time and place.

In his message, Peter encourages his readers to model their lives on what they learned about Jesus. For it was in the suffering Jesus endured that these slaves could find strength and freedom deeply in their souls. They could be assured God was with them as they tried to make the right choices about how they lived.

Understand, this passage does not express any support for the acceptability of violence, abuse, and needless suffering. It does not support racism, permit enslaving, or treating others as being less-than. It does not promote that being abused and suffering is the only way to receive God’s acceptance. It does, however, challenge us to consider that in the life of Jesus, and what God did through Christ on Easter, we have choices for how we live. It is better to suffer or be ridiculed for doing good than for doing evil.

This text invites us to consider how we will live as disciples of the Risen Christ. Will we allow ourselves to be enslaved by our fears of rejection by others because of our commitment to follow Christ? Will we allow derogatory words and acts to reduce our faith and hope? Or will we live with courage, hope, trust, and assurance in what God did through Christ on Easter, and what God can and will do through our lives today, wherever we live?

Questions

When have you had to find the courage and strength to trust God amid your suffering and experiences of injustice or the suffering and experiences of those you love?

2. When have you felt persecuted or looked down on for doing good (“the right thing”)?

3. How does the hope of Easter continue to offer hope for how we live as disciples of the Living Christ?

Sending Generosity Statement

Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

This offering prayer for the Easter Season is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 461, “Ah, Holy Jesus”

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children

You will need:

• construction paper

• coloring supplies

Say: In today’s scripture, the author compares Jesus to a shepherd because he cares for us like a shepherd cares for a flock of sheep lovingly, patiently, and faithfully.

This is a metaphor used to describe Jesus because it communicates information about who and what Jesus is. There are many metaphors we can use to better understand Jesus. For example, we can say, Jesus is a potter because he shapes and forms us as we follow him.

Think about who Jesus is to you and find a name to give Jesus like shepherd or potter that describes who Jesus is. After you have decided on a name, make and decorate a nametag for Jesus with this name on it.

Give participants time to think and create. Be prepared to offer suggestions for those who are stuck. Before sending participants back to their seats, share some of the name tags they created.