Worship Planning Tools - March 2024 (Year B)

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3 March 2024 10 March 2024 17 March 2024 24 March 2024– Palm/Passion Sunday 28 March 2024 – Maundy Thursday 29 March 2024 – Good Friday 30 March 2024 – Holy Saturday 31 March 2024 – Easter _________________________________________________________________________________

WORSHIP RESOURCES

3 March 2024 Third Sunday of Lent

I Corinthians 1:18-25 The Power of Paradox Additional Scriptures Exodus 20:1-17; Psalm 19; John 2:13-22; Doctrine and Covenants 164:4a Preparation For the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, prepare the Communion table with the usual trays or whatever is used in your location, but also have a loaf of round, uncut bread, a large roll, or a large tortilla, or other staples in a basket, and a small pitcher of juice along with a chalice or cup.

We Gather Prelude During the prelude, project or print this scripture for meditation.

Remember the sabbath day and keep it holy.

—Exodus 20:8 Welcome and Sharing of Community Joys and Concerns Call to Worship: Psalm 19:1-4a

We Praise Congregational Hymn “How Shall We Find You”

CCS 10

OR “With a Word, You Birthed Creation” OR “This is God‘s Wondrous World” OR “Creating God, Your Fingers Trace”

CCS 17 CCS 136 CCS 139

Invocation Lenten Reflection We have reached the halfway point on our Lenten journey. Like the disciples of old, we might be feeling a little tired and weary from the struggle of keeping up, staying hopeful, while yet feeling a bit anxious about where we are going. Take time to rest and to practice listening for God’s still, small voice. Allow yourselves to be filled with new energy as you steadfastly continue to travel with Jesus.

Prayer for Peace If desired, ring a chime or bell. Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer Ask two people of any age to read or sing, “Why Should the Earth Disclose a Face,” CCS 284, for the Prayer for Peace, alternating stanzas. At the end both say “Amen” or sing it on the final note of the hymn.

We Confess and Prepare for a Sacrament Meditation Invite the congregation to turn to “Come and Find the Quiet Center,” CCS 151 and read it silently while music is played.

Scripture of Invitation: Doctrine and Covenants 164:4a 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 might have a 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.

Hymn of Confession “O Lord, How Can It Be” OR “In the Quiet of This Day”

CCS 529 CCS 161

Ask the servers to come to the Communion table after the Hymn of Confession. During the reading of Matthew 26:26-28, have two of the servers act out the words as they are read: one tearing the bread item into two or more pieces, and the other pouring juice into the chalice or cup. Then continue with the prayer(s) of blessing on the emblems.

Communion Scripture: Matthew 26:26-28 Blessing and Serving of the Bread and Wine

For guidelines on the Lord’s Supper, including online participation, see CofChrist.org/ourministry-tools.

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement The first Sunday of every month focuses the Disciples’ Generous Response to Abolish Poverty, End Suffering, which includes oblation ministry. Our offerings are about more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We focus on aligning our hearts with God’s heart and in doing so on this Sunday we assist in helping abolish poverty. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, for God is the giver of all.

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.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or through eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

We Learn What Is a Paradox?

If there are children present, use ideas written by Grant Snider and found at childrensbookacademy.com/blogfish/paradox-in-picture-books to lead them in creating a short story of their own that entails paradox.

OR Lead the discussion below.

Share the definition of paradox: a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained might prove to be well-founded or true.

Briefly discuss this statement as an example of paradox: A person can be twenty years old but only have had five birthdays. OR If I know one thing, it’s that I know nothing.

• • •

Have you experienced a paradox? Ask a couple of people to share.

What do you think it means to live with paradox?

How might you bridge the gap between these seemingly contradictory statements?

A Scriptural Example of Paradox Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

—John 12:25 Discuss: How can this be true?

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25

Invite the congregation to listen for something that sounds like a paradox.

Homily Based on 1 Corinthians 1:18-25

We Are Ready To Serve Hymn “In These Moments We Remember” OR “You Satisfy the Hungry Heart” OR “God, Whose Grace Redeems Our Story” Benediction Sending Forth We proclaim Jesus Christ and promote communities of joy, hope, love, and peace.

Postlude

CCS 515 CCS 531 CCS 570

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS

Year B—Letters Third Sunday in Lent

1 Corinthians 1:18–25 Exploring the Scripture This text describes the gospel as counterintuitive. The word Paul uses is “foolishness” (v. 18). He was helping the church in Corinth grapple with the mystery of the cross. They would have more to learn if they thought they had Christ figured out based on scripture or philosophy.

The young church community at Corinth included Jews and Gentiles. Both likely struggled with the cross. They may have applied the tools of scripture, philosophy, or common knowledge and still had difficulty understanding what had happened on the cross and its meaning as a symbol.

Today, we may be familiar with some Old Testament scripture passages that Jewish Christians saw pointing to a coming Messiah. But Jewish scribes and scripture experts of Paul’s day likely had a hard time reconciling the final parts of Jesus’ earthly life with scripture. They read in the Hebrew Scriptures that God cursed those put to death by hanging on a tree (Deuteronomy 21: 22–23). The cross was a significant obstacle to considering Jesus as Lord.

Various schools of philosophy influenced Gentile thinking. None of those philosophies saw death by execution as something to be admired in a leader. Meanwhile, Gentile thought, as reflected in popular mythology, understood good fortune, or misfortune, to be tied to the gods’ intervening. If you were rich and powerful, it was because the gods were helping you. The opposite also applied. A surface reading of the Hebrew Bible could reveal similar assumptions. As a disciple, following a leader put to death by execution was problematic for Jews and Gentiles. It went against scripture, logic, and common sense.

Paul insisted the cross remain at the center of faith, despite these obstacles. Through the cross, God displays utmost solidarity with those in the world who are oppressed and suffering. God suffered with them.

The cross was more than just a symbol of solidarity. The cross meant suffering could no longer be seen as a clear sign of God’s judgment. Christ, their leader, had suffered horribly on the cross, and he was blessed. After the crucifixion, the conventional wisdom that God cursed suffering people was decisively overthrown by continuing to follow Christ. People were freed from assuming God must also be angry with them besides their suffering.

Paul also argued the cross had shown God’s power is different in its nature from other powers that can be seen in the world. At least God uses power differently. God doesn't use power for boasting or amassing more power. Instead, God’s power was used for lifting the lowly, freeing them from guilt.

God’s power was used to stand in solidarity with the suffering.

Finally, the supposedly most powerful people of this world would not be allowed to have the last word. Their power would be overcome, unexpectedly, through what was the supreme symbol of their power. It’s not simply that God turned out to be stronger. While it may seem foolish, the fundamental mystery of Christianity is that God’s power is revealed on the very cross intended to humiliate and oppress.

Central Ideas 1. Neither suffering nor worldly success should be seen as simple expressions of God’s will.

2. God’s power is different, in mysterious ways, from what people might recognize.

3. Surprisingly, the empire’s symbol of oppression and death, the executioner’s cross, has become a symbol of God’s power.

Questions for the Speaker 1. What are some moments when you’ve seen God revealed in times of suffering and oppression?

2. What time or story can you think of where the powerful were crushing the weak while, at the same time, God’s love was being revealed in the community of the oppressed? Or think of where that marginalized community was, in fact, becoming more powerful? (Such as various civil rights movements.)

3. Paul talks about “those who are perishing [and] us who are being saved” (v. 18). In your experience, are there two kinds of people divided like this? Or is it more a constant struggle where sometimes we see the power of the cross, and sometimes we instead look away?

4. Today, how do people assume wealth and privilege are due to divine favor? How often do we secretly wonder what we did to deserve it when faced with a diagnosis or turn of events we didn’t want? In what ways should the cross upend this way of thinking for Christians? How is this liberating? How much do we still struggle with this?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Letters Third Sunday of Lent 1 Corinthians 1:18–25 NRSVUE Gathering Welcome We join with other Christians who for many centuries have observed Lent as the forty days between Ash Wednesday and Easter, not counting Sundays. During Lent, we center our attention on Jesus as we remember his life and ministry. Lent also provides a means to sharpen our focus on our own lives in relationship to Jesus. And the Lenten season encourages us to turn away from whatever distracts or blocks our commitment to discipleship. May the season of Lent help us walk with Jesus, even though the path leads to the cross.

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

God of abundance, at times, we forget that you are abundant in possibility! Humans have fought for centuries, and still, we fight. Still, we hunger. Still, we make poor choices. Still, we choose ease over what is best. Still, we harm and hurt until peace seems like a dream.

But you, God...you are the God of dreamers! May we dream boldly of peace, knowing your thoughts are higher than ours, your ways are higher than ours, and you are capable of peace!

Open our hearts to the ways you are working in our neighborhoods. Let us wake from our dreams, gather our supplies, and build those dreams into being with you!

In the name of Jesus, the Dream Maker. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Practice of Silence Practicing silence may be difficult at first. The mind may run wild. Allow yourself grace in this practice. We will begin when I ring the chime. We will be silent for five minutes. I will ring the chime again to conclude our time of silence.

Remember to breathe deeply. Focusing on each breath can help quiet the mind. Become aware of your surroundings; notice how the air feels on your skin; trust that you are in the presence of the Holy— fully surrounding and embracing you. Allow your inner conversations to stop for a while. Be fully present with the One who is fully present with you.

Ring the chime to begin.

Wait five minutes.

Ring the chime to conclude the period of silence.

Ask: How does it feel to be present with God in silence?

Adapted from a Guide for Lent, CofChrist.org/a-guide-for-lent

Sharing Around the Table 1 Corinthians 1:18–25 NRSVUE For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.”

Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scholar? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, God decided, through the foolishness of the proclamation, to save those who believe. For Jews ask for signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to gentiles, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength.

Welcome to the “upside-down” world that is the kingdom of God. The word Paul uses is “foolishness.” He was helping the church in Corinth, a community of Jews and Gentiles, grapple with the mystery of the cross. They would have more to learn if they thought they had Christ figured out based on scripture or philosophy.

Jewish scribes and scripture experts of Paul’s day likely had a hard time reconciling the final parts of Jesus’s earthly life with scripture. They read in the Hebrew Scriptures that God cursed those put to death by hanging on a tree (Deuteronomy 21:22–23). Meanwhile, Gentile thought, reflected in popular mythology, understood good fortune, or misfortune, to be tied to the gods’ intervening. If you were rich and powerful, it was because the gods were helping you. The opposite also applied.

A surface reading of the Hebrew Bible could reveal similar assumptions. As a disciple, following a leader put to death by execution was problematic for Jews and Gentiles. It went against scripture, logic, and common sense.

Paul insisted the cross remain at the center of faith despite these obstacles. Through the cross, God displays utmost solidarity with the oppressed and suffering. The cross was more than a symbol of solidarity. It meant that suffering no longer could be seen as a clear sign of God’s judgment. Christ, their leader, had suffered horribly on the cross, and he was blessed.

For Paul, the cross had shown that God’s power is different from other powers in the world. The supposedly most powerful people of this world will not be allowed to have the last word. “God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom.” It’s anything but foolish.

Questions 5. When have you seen God’s love revealed in the community of the oppressed? How have you seen God’s “power” bring new life and strength to a marginalized community?

6. Paul talks about the message of the cross being “foolishness” to some and “the power of God” to others. What role has the message of the cross played in your journey as a disciple?

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 for Lent is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: Ever-present God, forgive us when we are less than loving, less than hope-filled, less than you have created us to be. Your mercy and grace are always with us. May we find strength in your presence, and may we respond to your love with generous spirits. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 198, “By the Babylonian Rivers” 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.

During this Lenten season let us share in Communion as an expression of blessing, healing, peace, and community.

In preparation let’s sing from Community of Christ Sings 526, “Is There One Who Feels Unworthy?”

Thoughts for Children

• •

This Lenten activity continues through the season of Lent.

You will need: Crayons Nest papers from last week

Throughout the season of Lent, participants will be building a piece of art that reflects their Lenten journey. Be prepared to collect the progressing artwork each week. Make certain to have extra pieces of artwork in various stages of completion for participants who miss a week or two.

Say: Today is the third Sunday in Lent. Lent is a time when we prepare for Easter by intentionally taking time to grow our relationship with God. We can deepen our relationship with God in many ways, but three are especially important: fasting, praying, and almsgiving. Last week we talked a bit about prayer.

This week, we are going to talk more about prayer. Last week, we created safe intentional space for God in our lives. We symbolized this space by creating nests.

Return the nests to each participant. Make sure everyone has a nest, even if they did not create one last week.

Say: Today, I want us to think about things we might pray about. You can decide to pray about whatever you want. As you think of things for prayer, write or draw them on the paper around your nest.

As participants write things to pray about, discuss some things they might include in their prayers.

Say: Once you have written some things you want to pray for, give your paper back to me so I can hold onto it until next time. The prayers we offer help us deepen our relationship with God. This week, look for new ways to pray.

WORSHIP RESOURCES

10 March 2024 Fourth Sunday of Lent

Ephesians 2:1-10 A Grace-filled Way of Life Additional Scriptures Numbers 21:4-9; Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22; John 3:14-21; Doctrine and Covenants 102:11a-d Preparation Review the Focus Moment drama. Choose people of any age to participate. It will need some preparation but can be done with just a brief overview of the actions before the service.

Prelude Gathering Hymns Choose two.

“Lord, You Have Brought Us” CCS 76 “O God of Vision” CCS 78 “Jesu, Tawa Pano/Jesus, We Are Here” CCS 71 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Welcome Call to Worship: Psalm 107: 1-3, 21-22 Hymn of Joy “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” CCS 99 OR “Now Sing to Our God” CCS 108 OR “Creator God We Sing/Cantemos al Creador” CCS 114 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Invocation

Lenten Reflection As the disciples journeyed with Jesus there likely were times when things didn’t go the way they imagined, when detours forced them to make changes in both where they were going and what they were thinking. Our lives are also like that. Most of us have experienced detours too, perhaps abandoning a long-held dream, or facing life with limitations dictated by health challenges. This week consider where the detours have taken you. Do a mental check to see if you are still on the journey with Jesus.

Focus Moment Drama based on Numbers 21:4-9 See below.

Ministry of Music “When We Are Tested” OR “How Long, O God, How Long?”

CCS 453 CCS 455

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10 Sermon Based on Ephesians 2:1-10 Pursue Peace Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 102:11a-d Ring a chime or bell and light the Peace Candle.

Sung Prayer for Peace Add an Amen at the end.

“For the Healing of the Nations” OR “O God of Every Nation”

CCS 297 CCS 312

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement One of Community of Christ’s Enduring Principles is Grace and Generosity. It is described in the following words. Listen closely and you may hear echoes of today‘s scriptures.

God’s grace, especially as revealed in Jesus Christ, is generous and unconditional.

Having received God‘s generous grace, we respond generously and graciously receive the generosity of others.

We offer all we are and have to God‘s purposes as revealed in Jesus Christ.

We generously share our witness, resources, ministries, and sacraments according to our true capacity.

—Sharing in Community of Christ, Exploring Identity, Mission, Message, and Beliefs, fourth edition, HeraldHouse.org, page 28.

During this time of 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.

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.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

We Respond to God’s Grace “Whatever You Do” OR “Lord, Whose Love” OR “To Be Your Presence”

CCS 355 CCS 346 CCS 351

Benediction Postlude

Focus Moment Drama Cast • • • •

a few people of any age to represent a group of Israelites one person to represent Moses one narrator (could be from your online community) two people seated at the front of the worship space or online who observe the drama and then converse about it

If worshiping only online, invite folks to pantomime the action in the texts as they are read. The narrator can be someone present or online.

Props needed if meeting in person: • a few toy snakes that are placed on the ground off to one side of the front of the worship space • a pole with a toy snake attached to it that has been painted bronze and placed on the ground near the other toy snakes Be sure to announce to the congregation that the snakes are not real.

Action When worshiping in person, the two people who will observe take their places. They might need a microphone to be heard later.

Once in place, the character of Moses leads the other people up an aisle in the worship space to an area near the toy snakes. While they are walking, everyone but Moses mutters and complains about how hard this journey is: they don’t like the weird food that is the same every day, they complain about the lack of water when they need it, and so on.

When the characters are in place near the toy snakes, they stop walking. The narrator reads the part in quotes in Numbers 21:5. The people mumble in agreement.

The narrator reads Numbers 21:6. While that is being read the crowd moves closer to the snakes and a few act as if they have been bitten, falling slowly to the ground.

The people who survive turn to Moses. The narrator reads the quote in Verse 7.

Moses pantomimes praying. The narrator reads Verse 8. Moses picks up the pole with the bronze “serpent.” The survivors still pretend they are being bitten, but immediately look at the bronze serpent and live. The people portraying the crowd and Moses leave the scene.

The two observers have a brief conversation commenting on how those folks did nothing but mumble and complain. They say times haven’t changed much, as even now people mumble and complain, with observers citing an example they know about. The conversation ends with one challenging the congregation with the question: Do we still trust God?

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS Year B—Letters Fourth Sunday in Lent

Ephesians 2:1–10 Exploring the Scripture The letter to the Ephesians, traditionally credited to Paul, is considered by most scholars to have been written by followers of Paul. Often used during Lent, it is a significant text faithful to Paul’s understanding of God and God’s gift to humankind realized through Jesus Christ. The Ephesian letter is a rich reflection on the path of transformation experienced by those who follow Jesus. Although the setting of the message is first-century Greek culture, it contains timeless truths and poignant connections for every generation of disciples, regardless of their frame of reference.

The author candidly describes the reality of life before, from the viewpoint of one who experienced coming alive in Christ. The world’s ways and succumbing to the passions and desires of the flesh result in a living death. These can be revealed in countless ways. Some we control, and others we don’t. For example, circumstances or choices hold us captive to ourselves or society. No condemnation is intended in this part of the passage.

The passage offers a bold look at the reality of the world into which we are born (vv. 1–3). There is a sincere recognition of the struggles, challenges, and suffering inherent in the human condition. We are all connected by that condition. Beyond that, the systemic nature of power and potential negative effect on human life is named and called into account.

Amid the world’s reality, the God of mercy and grace extended boundless love and grace through Jesus Christ. We were raised (resurrection) with him to experience transformation from living death to being “made…alive together with Christ” (v. 5), saved by grace.

The message is clear. God’s gift is given freely in love. It is not given in response to anything we do ourselves to earn it through “works” (v. 9). The good works we do as faithful followers of Christ naturally flow into our actions as we embrace all the dimensions of Christ’s salvation. Good works become “our way of life” (v. 10).

This journey of redemption affects both individual and community life. Coming alive in Christ brings healing and wholeness into our personal lives, allowing us to see the world’s ills. As we embody Christ in our new life of good works, we are empowered to effect transformation and change in our families, cities, and nations. During Lent, this passage provides a lens through which we can look inward and outward, and reflect on life before Christ and life after, life with and in Christ.

Central Ideas 1. We are made alive in Christ through God’s great love and become doers of Christ’s redemptive work.

2. We experience the already-but-not-yet hope of redemption found in the resurrection through God’s gift of mercy and love.

3. God’s gift is shared freely, not as a reward for good works. Good works flow out of life in Christ.

Questions for the Speaker 1. What forces in our world today affect a living death in people and communities?

2. How have you experienced or witnessed God’s merciful love amid weakness, struggle, or temptation in a way that transformed death into becoming alive in Christ?

3. How are good works an expression of being made alive in Christ and bringing healing ministry of transformation to our world (as individuals and as a community of faith)?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Letters Fourth Sunday of Lent Ephesians 2:1–10 NRSVUE Gathering Welcome We join with other Christians who for many centuries have observed Lent as the forty days between Ash Wednesday and Easter, not counting Sundays. During Lent, we center our attention on Jesus as we remember his life and ministry. Lent also provides a means to sharpen our focus on our own lives in relationship to Jesus. And the Lenten season encourages us to turn away from whatever distracts or blocks our commitment to discipleship. May the season of Lent help us walk with Jesus, even though the path leads to the cross.

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Spirit of wandering and rest, we come again to pray for peace. We know and trust your power.

We know and trust that you provide what we need, just like you provided manna for the Israelites wandering the wilderness.

At times, the pursuit of peace feels like wandering in the wilderness. We do not know what lies ahead. We grow tired. We feel alone, yet in community. As we journey through this Lenten wilderness, remind us of your power. You are the Spirit of peace, and we humbly pray that you would invite us to join you in creating peace on Earth.

Grant us courage to continue walking into the wilderness, carrying your light to the world. In the name of Jesus, our Guide. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Practice of Silence Practicing silence may be difficult at first. The mind may run wild. Allow yourself grace in this practice. We will begin when I ring the chime. We will be silent for five minutes. I will ring the chime again to conclude our time of silence.

Remember to breathe deeply. Focusing on each breath can help quiet the mind. Become aware of your surroundings; notice how the air feels on your skin; trust that you are in the presence of the Holy— fully surrounding and embracing you. Allow your inner conversations to stop for a while. Be fully present with the One who is fully present with you.

Ring the chime to begin.

Wait five minutes.

Ring the chime to conclude the period of silence.

Ask: How does it feel to be present with God in silence?

Adapted from a Guide for Lent

Sharing Around the Table Ephesians 2:1–10 NRSVUE You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. All of us once lived among them in the passions of our flesh, doing the will of flesh and senses, and we were by nature children of wrath, like everyone else, but God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—not the result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we may walk in them.

Often used during Lent, this text is faithful to Paul’s understanding of God and God’s gift to humankind realized through Jesus Christ. The Ephesian letter is a rich reflection on the path of transformation experienced by those who follow Jesus. Although the setting of the message is firstcentury Greek culture, it contains timeless truths for every generation of disciples, regardless of their frame of reference.

The author candidly describes the reality of life “before,” from the viewpoint of one who has experienced coming alive in Christ. Today’s passage offers a bold look at the reality of the world into which we are born. It sincerely recognizes the struggles, challenges, and suffering inherent in life. Those things connect all of us.

Amid the world’s reality, the God of mercy and grace extends boundless love and grace through Jesus Christ. We were raised (resurrection) with him to experience transformation from despair to being “made…alive together with Christ” through grace.

The message is clear. God’s gift is given freely in love. It is not given in response to anything we do ourselves. The good works we do as faithful followers of Christ naturally flow into our actions as we embrace all the dimensions of Christ’s salvation. Good works become our way of life.

This journey of redemption affects individual and community life. Coming alive in Christ brings healing and wholeness into our personal lives, allowing us to see the world’s ills. As we embody Christ in our new life of good works, we are empowered to effect transformation and change in our families, cities, and nations. During Lent, this passage provides a lens for looking inward and outward and reflecting on life before Christ and life after, life with and in Christ.

Questions 4. How have you experienced or witnessed God’s merciful love amid weakness, struggle, or temptation in a way that transformed despair into becoming alive in Christ?

5. When have you been inspired to do something good as a response to God’s grace and love in your life?

6. How are good works an expression of being made alive in Christ, bringing healing ministry of transformation to our world?

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 for Lent is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: Ever-present God, forgive us when we are less than loving, less than hope-filled, less than you have created us to be. Your mercy and grace are always with us. May we find strength in your presence, and may we respond to your love with generous spirits. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 227, “Come Now, You Hungry” Closing Prayer

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

Thoughts for Children • • • •

This Lenten activity continues through the season of Lent.

You will need: Nest pictures from the previous week Eggs cut from white paper—enough for each participant to have three Pencils or coloring supplies Glue sticks

Throughout Lent, participants will build a piece of art that reflects their Lenten journey. Be prepared to collect the progressing artwork each week. Make certain to have extra pieces of artwork in various stages of completion for participants who miss a week or two.

Say: Today is the fourth Sunday in Lent. Lent is a time when we prepare for Easter by intentionally taking time to grow our relationship with God. We can deepen our relationship with God in many ways, but three are especially important: fasting, praying, and almsgiving. Over the next few weeks, we will talk about each of these in more detail. Last week we talked about prayer.

Ask: Who found a new way to pray this past week?

Say: This week, we are going to talk about almsgiving. Almsgiving is a fancy way of saying that we are going to share our time, talents, and resources with the world. We can share in lots of ways. We can give physical resources like food and clothing to those in need. We can give our time to help someone clean their yard. We can even give of our talents by creating a card to make someone feel better.

I am going to give you each three eggs to add to your nest picture. On each egg, I want you to write or draw how you can give and share with the world.

As participants write or draw on their eggs, ask them to tell you about what they plan to give.

Say: Once you have finished writing on your eggs, you can glue them into your nest. After the eggs have been glued, give your nest picture back to me so I can hold onto it until next time.

This week, as you go about each day, look for ways you can practice almsgiving by sharing with others.

WORSHIP RESOURCES

17 March 2024 Fifth Sunday of Lent

Jeremiah 31:31-34 Written on Our Hearts Additional Scriptures Psalm 51:1-12; John 12:20-33; Hebrews 5:5-10

Preparation Provide a heart-shaped piece of paper and something to write with for each participant as they enter the worship space. At the exit of the worship space, provide a bulletin board with tacks or a sticky board for participants to post their hearts as they leave the service. Keep this board visible through the Easter season.

Prelude Gathering Hymns Choose two.

“Hope of the World” “The God of Abraham Praise” “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

CCS 29 CCS 94 CCS 87

Welcome Call to Worship: Psalm 51:10-12 Hymn of Rejoicing “Wind Upon the Waters” OR “Great and Marvelous Are Thy Works” OR “I Will Sing, I Will Sing” Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

CCS 49 CCS 118 CCS 112

Invocation Lenten Reflection As we come to the end of our Lenten journey with Jesus and his disciples, let’s reflect on the many signposts and detours that were encountered. What did you do? What did you see? Were you tempted to wander off the path in search of an easier way or a different way? Maybe you lost interest in the journey altogether. Hopefully, you discovered that the detours and signposts were invitations to see with new eyes and to listen anew to the words of Jesus. What is it that opens

your eyes now as we continue our journey? What words of hope or love is Jesus writing on your heart today?

Reading: “The Peace of Jesus Christ” Reader 1: I heard the voice of Jesus say…

Reader 2: “Come unto me and rest…I bring good tidings of release to all who are oppressed.”

Reader 1: I came to Jesus as I was, weary, worn, and sad.

I found in him a resting place, and he has made me glad.

Reader 2: I heard the voice of Jesus say…

Reader 3: “Behold, I freely give the living water, thirsty one!

Here, stoop down and drink and live.”

Reader 2: I came to Jesus…and I drank of that life-giving stream.

My thirst was quenched, my soul revived, and now I live in him.

Reader 3: I heard the voice of Jesus say, “I am this dark world’s light…look unto me! Your morn shall rise, and all your day will be bright.”

ALL Readers: We all looked to Jesus, and in him we found our star, our sun, and in that light of life we’ll walk…’till all our traveling days are done.

—Horatius N. Bonar, CCS 31, “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say,” adapted Hymn of Humility “Who Is This Jesus?”

“Searcher of Hearts” OR “Ososŏ/Come Now, O Prince of Peace” Sing several times.

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

CCS 38 CCS 178 CCS 225

Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer God of New Life, Our journey through a Lenten wilderness nears its end, and we are reminded that you promised a path in the wilderness to the Israelites, whom you love.

Now you walk the path to death still in the name of love. Still for your people. How did you look to such a future with hope?

Our journey through wilderness toward peace often feels like a circle. Famine, depression, inequality, unfairness, and sickness have us wandering in a desert of despair.

The path ahead often looks bleak, and we yearn for peaceful moments from our past. Yet there is a river in this wilderness—a river you provide!

Grant us courage to be a prophetic people, speaking hope to the despondent, sharing love with the discouraged, and standing beside the dispirited.

We must look to the light and reflect the light if we are to pursue peace!

Strengthen us to not run from this wilderness, but to instead cultivate life and peace with that river, right where we are. In the name of Jesus, the hopeful One. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34 Period of Meditation Quietly play “God Within God Around,” CCS 20, or sit in silence for a short time.

Sermon Based on Jeremiah 31:31-34 Reflection On the paper heart provided, ask participants to write a word or phrase that captures their Lenten experience. The hearts will be posted on a board as they exit the worship space.

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement God intends Christian faith to be lived in companionship with Jesus Christ and with other disciples in service to the world. The church of Jesus Christ is made of all those who respond to Jesus’s call. Community of Christ is part of the whole body of Christ. We are called to be a prophetic people, proclaiming the peace of Jesus Christ and creating communities where all will be welcomed and brought into renewed relationship with God, and where there will be no poor. God’s grace, especially as revealed in Jesus Christ, is generous and unconditional. Having received God’s infinite grace, we offer all that we are and have to God’s purposes as revealed in Jesus Christ.

During this time of 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.

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.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes Hymn of Mission “Christ Has Changed the World’s Direction” OR “O Young and Fearless Prophet” OR “This Is My Song” Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

CCS 356 CCS 36 CCS 389

Benediction Sending Forth Take what you have written on your paper heart with you and post it on the bulletin board near the exit. Take what has been written on your heart during the Lenten season and

prepare for Holy Week. May you go with God. Postlude

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS Year B—Old Testament Fifth Sunday in Lent

Jeremiah 31:31–34 Exploring the Scripture The scripture text for this Sunday is a message of hope and restoration that God extends in a new covenant with the house of Israel.

To understand this powerful message, it is important to place it in a historical frame of reference.

People from the kingdoms of Israel and Judah had been taken by the Assyrians and then Babylonians and exiled from their homeland. The message Jeremiah declares comes amid the deep suffering and turmoil the people experienced. Their daily lives were filled with the loss of identity, family, home, and a sense of belonging, coupled with the disturbing question of why God had abandoned them.

The story surrounding the text for today has its beginning in chapter 30, where God reminds the people they were not forgotten. In chapter 31, God describes the coming restoration.

“A new covenant,” God declares, is what God will make with the houses of Israel and Judah.

This new covenant will be different from what God made with their ancestors, who came out of Egypt.

The word covenant, used throughout the Old Testament, is not to be interpreted as strictly an agreement between two individuals. When covenant is used about God, it is always about expressing a special relationship between God and the people.

When God declares that a new covenant will be made with those in exile, God affirms a transformative relationship is being birthed with the people. This new covenant will not be words written on stone as their ancestors experienced with Moses. God is going to place this new covenant in the hearts of the people. From the external laws on stone to the internal presence of God placed on their hearts, a new way of relating with God will form them as a nation and people of God. In these four verses, we encounter the depth of love God extends to the people. It is always God’s initiative to offer love, grace, forgiveness, and restoration formed in a new covenant that describes the relationship God yearns to have with all people. It is not a relationship formed by fear and blind obedience. Rather, it’s a relationship that invites people into the heart and love God has for them.

In that encompassing relationship of love, God makes the multiple factors of salvation known through restoration that is about to come forth.

In this text, we face the invitation to consider how this new covenant of love frees us to live fully the life God has created in us. Even more, we are challenged to consider our covenant response to the relationship of love God yearns to share with each human life. But even when we fail to uphold our shared part of the covenant relationship, God is faithful, extending new opportunities to experience God’s grace and restoration.

Central Ideas 1. God constantly seeks to bring healing, renewal, and redemption in the covenant made with all creation.

2. The new covenant challenges us to consider the depth of our response to living in a significant relationship with God and one another.

3. When God places a new covenant in our heart, that covenant is filled with love, grace, forgiveness, and restoration that brings joy, hope, love, and peace to our lives and how we choose to be with others.

Questions for the Speaker 1.

How does the message God shared with the people of Israel and Judah, who struggled in their suffering and questions, speak to us today in our different life circumstances and cultures?

2. What do you find in this scripture passage that awakens in you and your congregation to the new covenant God is seeking to place in your heart?

3. How does this new covenant that expresses love, grace, forgiveness, and restoration invite you to see differently those in your community or neighborhood? What message will you live and share?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Focus: Fifth Sunday of Lent Scripture: Jeremiah 31:31–34 NRSV Gathering Welcome Today is the fifth Sunday of Lent. We join other Christians who for many centuries have observed it as the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter, not counting Sundays. During Lent, we center our attention on Jesus as we remember his life and ministry. Lent provides a means to also sharpen our focus on our own lives in relationship to Jesus. And the Lenten season encourages us to turn away from whatever distracts or blocks our commitment to discipleship. May the season of Lent help us walk with Jesus even though the path leads to the cross.

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Our Creator and Sustainer of life, as we see and experience the newness of life in its stirrings after the harshness and chill of winter, our hearts are filled with gratitude of our own gift of life and breath. There are stirrings within our hearts when we feel the warmth of your Spirit opening us up to understanding the blessings and the challenges of fulfilling the purpose for which each of us has been created.

Just as the season of the year brings forth the many colors and scents that speak to us of the ongoing acts of creation, so too do we grow and mature in the ever-changing environment of our lives and our spiritual understanding. The beauty of the natural order is nurtured by exposure to sunlight and rain, sources of food, and purity of air. The maturing of our humanity is nurtured and made strong through meaningful relationships with each other and the source of divine power. We must be fed physically and spiritually and overcome difficulties as well as bask in the sunlight of joyous experiences.

For all your children, at times the balance is sometimes out of focus, and we falter and feel uncertainty in our discipleship and our efforts to be at peace and to help bring the spirit of peace to others in needs. We ask your forgiveness, O God, when we look away from you and are distressed and ineffective by losing our center in you. We are all your needy children and ask that your Spirit continue to illumine the paths we take and the choices we make so that we truly can rightfully claim and fulfill the call to be makers of peace.

This is our great desire and our petition, even as we acknowledge our dependence on you.

Amen.

—Helen Lents

Spiritual Practice Silent Personal Reflection Read the following to the group.

Prayerfully consider the following statement from “We Proclaim Jesus Christ” found in Sharing in Community of Christ. How does this statement help you conclude your Lenten journey and lead you into Holy Week?

We live and serve in hope that God’s kingdom of justice and peace will indeed come, bringing healing to the whole, groaning creation. Putting our trust in the Risen Christ, present among us by the Holy Spirit, we press on together, giving blessing, honor, and glory to God, now and forever more.

—Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th ed., p. 60 www.CofChrist.org/common/cms/resources/documents/sharing-in-community-of-christ-4thedweb.pdf End the reflection time by sounding a chime or bell.

Sharing Around the Table Jeremiah 31:31–34 NRSV The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt—a covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. No longer shall they teach one another, or say to each other, “Know the Lord,” for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, says the Lord; for I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more.

People from the kingdoms of Israel and Judah had been taken by the Assyrians and then Babylonians and exiled from their homeland. Their daily lives were filled with the loss of identity, family, home, and a sense of belonging, coupled with the disturbing question of why God had abandoned them. Into this setting Jeremiah brings a message of a new covenant between the people and God. Here the word “covenant” is best understood as a special relationship between God and the people. This new covenant will be different from what God made with their ancestors, who came out of Egypt. This new covenant will not be words written on stone as their ancestors experienced with Moses.

God is going to place this new covenant in the hearts of the people. From the external laws on stone to the internal presence of God placed on their hearts, a new way of relating with God will form them as a nation and people of God. In these four verses, we encounter the depth of love God extends to the people. It is always God’s initiative to offer love, grace, forgiveness, and restoration formed in a new covenant that describes the relationship God yearns to have with all people. It is not a relationship formed by fear and blind obedience. Rather, it’s a relationship that invites people into the heart and love God has for them.

In that encompassing relationship of love, God makes the multiple factors of salvation known through restoration that is about to come forth.

Questions 2. When have you felt abandoned or “in exile”? How was God present with you even during this time?

4. How have you experienced love and hope replacing judgement and fear?

5. How does a new covenant of restoration (wholeness) invite you to examine your relationships with God and others in a new light?

Sending Generosity Statement Faithful disciples respond to an increasing awareness of the abundant generosity of God by sharing according to the desires of their hearts; not by commandment or constraint.

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:9 The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer for Lent is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: Ever Present God, Forgive us when we are less than loving, less than hope-filled, less than you have created us to be. Your mercy and grace is always with us. May we find strength in your presence and may we respond to your love with generous spirits. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 450, “Lead Me, Lord” (Sing twice. This will be our closing song each Sunday of Lent.)

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group • •

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children Our Lenten Journey Note: This Lenten activity continues through the season of Lent.

Materials: • The chain from the previous week • Skinny strips of purple paper (approximately 1.5 inches wide) • Pencil • Tape Say: We are in the season of Lent, which lasts 40 days. The number 40 is meaningful in several ways. Perhaps most meaningful to the season of Lent is the story of Jesus spending 40 days in the wilderness, preparing to minister to people. Our Lenten journey is modeled after Jesus’ time in the wilderness because we are also using this time for preparation. During Lent, we prepare for Holy Week and Easter by doing things that help us live like Jesus and recognize God’s presence in our lives and the world.

When Jesus left the wilderness, he was ready to begin his ministry. When Jesus ministered to people, he shared joy, hope, love, and peace with them. Just like Jesus, we can share joy, hope, love, and peace in the world.

(Following is a rhetorical question. It might be helpful to provide examples, but allow participants to answer the question themselves internally.)

Ask: What are some ways you can share joy, hope, love, and peace in the world?

Say: I am going to give you each a purple strip of paper. Purple is an important color during Lent. It reminds us that we should honor Jesus. I would like you to write words to describe, or draw a picture of, something you can do to share joy, hope, love, and peace like Jesus did. If you have more than one thing, feel free to ask for another slip of paper.

Once everyone has written on their slip of paper: Say: We are going to put all your strips of paper together to add to our paper chain from last week.

Help participants add their link to the chain.

Hold the completed chain up for everyone to see.

Say: Look at all of the preparation we have done to get ready for Holy Week and Easter!

Keep the completed chain some place safe to be used in your Palm Sunday and Easter worship displays.

WORSHIP RESOURCES

24 March 2024 Palm Sunday

Mark 11:1-11 (A, B, C) Join the Humble Procession Additional Scripture Psalm 118: 1-2, 19-29 Preparation Provide palm fronds or paper cutouts of a palm frond for children, or those who wish to participate, to wave during the processional. You could also use colorful pieces of cloth to simulate the cloaks laid on the pathway. If you wish to add a visual element, look for free images of art that reflect palm branches.

Project them and share on screen if you also offer online connections.

Gathering of the Crowd Prelude Gathering for Worship “God of Grace and God of Glory” OR “All Creatures of Our God and King” Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “Now in This Moment”

CCS 624 CCS 98 CCS 96

Welcome Jesus—Procession of Palms Welcome Call to Worship Responsive Reading Leader: As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.”

Reader 1: If anyone asks you, “Why are you doing this?” tell them, “The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.”

Leader: They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway just as Jesus had told them. As they untied the colt, its owners asked them, “What are you doing untying that colt?”

ALL: They answered as Jesus had told them. “The Lord needs it.”

Reader 2:

When they brought the colt to Jesus, they threw their cloaks on it and Jesus sat on it.

Reader 1: Leader:

As Jesus went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.

Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields.

Reader 2: Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted…

Leader and Readers 1 and 2: Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!

ALL: To be read in loud voices as the crowd welcoming Jesus would have done.

Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David.

HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST! —Mark 11:1-10, adapted Procession Hymn of Praise Have those with palm leaves and cloaks come down the center of the worship space, waving the palms, as the song is introduced.

“All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name!”

CCS 105 OR “Crown Him with Many Crowns” CCS 39 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “Siyahamb’ Ekukhanyen’ Kwenkhos’/We Are Marching in the Light of God” CCS 95 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Prayer of Welcome

Reflections as Witnesses Guided Meditation You are invited now to close your eyes and briefly rest in the light of the spirit. Picture yourself present at this parade. Are you a bystander, maybe a disciple, or one of the participants waving a palm branch? What is resting on your heart right now as you watch the arrival of Jesus riding on the back of the colt? What are you feeling…excitement, uncertainty, maybe a little fearful? What are you seeing in the face of Jesus? What do you see in the face of each disciple? Briefly rest for a moment in this space of uncertainty just like the disciples.

Hymn of Witness “Tell Me the Story of Jesus” Stanzas 1 and 2 OR “You Are Called to Tell the Story” Select 1 or 2 stanzas meaningful to you.

OR “Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love” Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

CCS 623 CCS 625 CCS 367

Courage for the Journey Ahead Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer 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 Holy Week, walk with us, God, so that we may take time this week to share peace with the world. Amen.

Scripture Story Share the story from Mark 11:1-11 from a children’s story Bible.

Hymn of Quiet Reflection “My Peace” Sing twice.

OR “Come and Find the Quiet Center” OR “Lead Me, Lord” Sing twice.

CCS 149 CCS 151 CCS 450

Message Based on Mark 11:1-11 Disciples’ Generous Response Statement As we reflect on the crowds that greeted Jesus on Palm Sunday with branches to create a pathway entrance through the gates of Jerusalem, we are also reminded that in just a few days another crowd shouted, “Crucify him!” How do we respond to Jesus’s 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, resurrection, and continuing life 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 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.

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.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Go as Living Witnesses Hymn of Witness “O Young and Fearless Prophet” OR “Fairest Lord Jesus” Benediction

CCS 36 CCS 33

Sending Forth: Psalm 118:1, 27-29 Postlude ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

24 March 2024 Passion Sunday

Philippians 2:5-11 Let This Mind Be in You Additional Scriptures Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 31:9-16; Mark 14:1—15:47 Preparation The scripture from Mark traces the events of Passion Week from the time the chief priests and scribes determined to pursue a course to have Jesus arrested and killed to Jesus’s crucifixion. Major parts of that story will be told in readings with congregational or solo responses in song or the hymn text being read while a musician quietly plays the music.

Use readers of all ages, in person and online, and give them their particular scripture passages and if needed, the hymn text, ahead of time to practice. If the congregation is not familiar with the suggested hymns that are recommended in between scripture passages and you want them to sing, use the gathering time to teach them.

If you wish to add a visual element, look for royalty-free images of Christian art that depict some of the key scenes as related in the scriptures below. Project them and screen share if you also offer online connections.

Gathering Time If desired, introduce and practice, “Holy Woman, Graceful Giver,” CCS 464, and “Shadows Lengthen into Night,” CCS 470, which will be used later in the service.

Prelude Welcome Invitation to Worship: Psalm 31:14-16 Hymn “Fairest Lord Jesus” OR “Of the Father’s Love Begotten”

CCS 33 CCS 27

Invocation The Passion Story: Jesus’s Journey to the Cross Hymn “Filled with Excitement/Mantos y palmas” CCS 465 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

OR “All Glory, Laud, and Honor” CCS 467 Scripture Lesson: Mark 14:1-3 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Holy Woman, Graceful Giver” Stanza 1

CCS 464

Scripture Lesson: Mark 14:10, 12-15, 17-18 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Stanza 1

CCS 470

Scripture Lesson: Mark 14:26-30 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Stanza 2

CCS 470

Scripture Lesson: Mark 14:32-36 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Stanzas 3 and 4

CCS 470

Scripture Lesson: Mark 14:42-46 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Stanza 5

CCS 470

Scripture Lesson: Mark 14:50 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Stanza 6

CCS 470

Scripture Lesson: Mark 14:53, 55-56, 60-61a, 66-72 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Stanza 7

CCS 470

Scripture Lesson: Mark 15:1, 9b-15, 21-24, 33 Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Stanza 8

CCS 470

Scripture Lesson: Mark 15:34-39, 42-46 Congregation or Solo: “Were You There” Stanzas 3 and 4

CCS 458

Reflection Invite people to close their eyes and imagine themselves present at one event in the narrative story just read. What might they have felt, believed, or feared? Invite them to rest in the unknowing as the disciples had to do. Spend several minutes in silence.

Prayer for Peace Statement Just as the disciples of old were disheartened and fearful after Jesus was crucified, we often feel the same emotions during our own journeys. And not only us, but far too many in our world are still living with similar fears about the potential of being falsely accused, tortured, and put to death. There often seems to be no reason for hope.

Unlike the early disciples, we know that the story we heard today isn’t the end of the saga. What comes next offers hope for all people. Our mission as disciples of Jesus Christ is to be bearers of that good news.

Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer Eternal One, we have grieved anew as we have remembered the sacred story that led Jesus to the cross. We also grieve the injustices others face in our own time. We seek your holy impression on our hearts and minds that will spur us to action to help advocate for the oppressed and mitigate the conditions that deny others their humanity. We offer this petition in the name of the one who lived and died that we might live. Amen.

Homily Based on Philippians 2:5-11 This quote, with Sermon Helps, ideas can develop the homily.

The appearance of this text among the readings for Palm/Passion Sunday in all three lectionary years underscores not only the sobriety with which it anticipates the suffering just ahead, but also the consolation and compassion and community that Jesus‘ followers will need in order to make the journey of the coming week with him. Indeed, they-we– have it among us, abundantly, even now.

—Richard E. Spalding in Feasting on the Word, Year B Volume 2, Westminster John Knox Press, page 174.

Disciples’ Generous Response Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:4 Statement This verse reminds us that being a disciple of Jesus Christ means caring for others, and that encompasses not only humans but all creatures and indeed our beautiful planet too.

Our response involves using our giftedness, our time, talents, and treasure.

We have the opportunity to 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.

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.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes Hymn of Hope “O Young and Fearless Prophet” OR “When We Are Living/Pues si vivimos” Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Benediction Sending Forth Let us walk the painful journey from the tomb to the cross this week in a spirit of remembrance and gratitude. Go with God. Postlude Somber and serious.

CCS 36 CCS 242/243

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS Year B—Letters Palm Sunday

For Palm Sunday, refer to the Old Testament or Gospel (Mark) Sermon Helps. The lectionary does not suggest a scripture passage from New Testament Letters on Palm Sunday.

Year B—Letters Passion Sunday

Philippians 2:5–11 Exploring the Scripture This text gives an excellent model for talking about the need to mirror Christ’s attitude and about our interactions with one another. This Philippian hymn helps us see the events of Holy Week as part of Christ’s humility and surrender to God’s will. It talks about Christ’s incarnation, crucifixion, and surrender.

This letter of Paul was written to the church in Philippi, which was one of the first known churches in Europe. Paul is saying to the Philippian church, look at the Son of God. He was equal to God, yet he emptied himself of all ambitions and desires and became one of us. Jesus surrendered his will to that of God. Because of this, he was victorious.

Today as we focus on Passion Sunday, we see the attitude of Christ in these verses, as he enters Jerusalem and eventually to the cross. Paul quotes this hymn as a pattern for us to live by and consider.

Christ calls us to a life of self-surrender.

The church at Philippi struggled with people putting their interests before others. There was a danger of the church being divided. Paul was in prison, and he had seen how the example of Christ had helped him overcome his inabilities. Therefore, Paul looked at Christ and urged the church to consider his example. Paul wanted the church in Philippi to surrender personal interest for the church’s good.

There are times when our interests can come before the interests of God and Christ’s mission.

Also, there are times when we prefer our interest to that of another. We need to heed the lesson to the Philippian church, to surrender our interests for the good of Christ and his mission. If such an attitude is adopted, then a spirit of unity will prevail. When there is unity, the Holy Spirit is present. Then, the mission of the church can be carried out more effectively. God’s will is done in us.

Also, we hear the words, “that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion” (Philippians 1:6). God will finish the work with or without us. The work of God will go on.

We are not indispensable, and we can either yield ourselves to God or not. To be part of God’s work, we need to empty ourselves of our motives and ambitions so the Divine’s will is done in us, like in Christ.

We need to put aside our personal agendas to enable God’s work to be done in and through us.

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, worked for the good of all. When we empty ourselves and follow Christ, God is glorified. The task is not beyond us, for we have the strength of Christ to fall on. You can depend on Christ’s power to help. God is at work in us, enabling us to do God’s will.

Central Ideas 1. Paul uses a hymn that celebrates the self-emptying of Christ. He took on himself the form of a servant, even to death on a cross, to encourage the church to empty themselves of their opinions and yearnings 2. Describing Christ as a servant to be mirrored is a message that has spoken to the church through the centuries.

3. Christ calls us to a life of self-surrender.

4. We see the story of Passion Sunday through the lens of Christ’s humility and surrender to God’s will 5. We need to put aside our agendas so the work of God can be done in and through us.

Questions for the Speaker 1. In what ways would our response to Christ’s mission change if we could focus our minds on the example of Christ?

2. What agendas do people have in your congregation? How do these need to be dealt with? Of what do we need to let go?

3. How does the example of a life of self-surrender speak to your community, neighborhood, or city?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Letters Palm Sunday *Mark 11:1–11 NRSVUE 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 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: Today our spiritual practice will be a body prayer.

Show the 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: 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: Hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring a chime.

Close with a spoken “Amen.”

Invite participants to share what they experienced during the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table *Mark 11:1–11 NRSVUE When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ just say this, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.’” They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it, some of the bystanders said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it.

Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it, and he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna!

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!

Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David!

Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.

Today’s passage is Mark’s account of Jesus’s arrival and entry into Jerusalem.

The people had varying expectations of the Messiah, and all were a threat to power. If the Messiah came as a warrior king, like David, it would threaten the Roman authorities. If the Messiah were an ancient prophet, like Elijah, it would threaten the power of the temple authorities to speak for God. If the Messiah were a great priest, who would cleanse the religion and set new standards of righteousness, it would threaten the temple authorities and Pharisees.

But Jesus rode the colt into Jerusalem to send a message of humility and peace. He did not ride a horse, symbol of war, privilege, and power. He gave the Romans no excuse to arrest him. He was displaying a peaceable kingdom, in solidarity with the weak and oppressed.

The disciples finally understood that Jesus was the Messiah, but it looked so different from their expectations. They put cloaks and fresh branches on the road, a custom reserved for royalty (2 Kings 9:13). They shouted, “Hosanna!” which meant “O save!” and was used to express hope for deliverance in battle. The people sought war, not peace—judgment, not grace. They announced the coming of the reign of David, not God. Jesus presented the people with a choice. Would they support an alternate peaceable kingdom of God? Or would they reject his message of peace and transformation?

Questions 1. When have your expectations of Jesus Christ been misplaced or unfulfilled?

2. How can people today mirror the humility and peace Jesus intended for his entry into Jerusalem?

3. Where do you see God working to bring the kingdom?

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: Ever-present God, forgive us when we are less than loving, less than hope-filled, less than you have created us to be. Your mercy and grace are always with us. May we find strength in your presence, and may we respond to your love with generous spirits. 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

*The Revised Common Lectionary does not include a scripture from Year B Letters for Palm Sunday.

The gospel text is used in its place.

Thoughts for Children • •

You will need: Popsicle sticks Construction paper

Say: Today is Palm Sunday. This is the day when we remember Jesus entering Jerusalem. In some Gospel stories we are told he was welcomed by people waving palms and yelling, “Hosanna!”

Today, we are going to make palm leaves from construction paper and Popsicle sticks. On each leaf, write a characteristic of Jesus that you like or are grateful for. These are reasons why you would come to see Jesus if he came to your town.

Once everyone has made their palms, take turns yelling a characteristic of Jesus (peacemaker, loving, helper, healer). Start by yelling, “Hosanna!” After everyone has taken a turn, yell, “Hosanna!”

Then go around the circle again. Go until all leaves have been shared or there’s been enough yelling!

Adapted from “Walking with Jesus”

WORSHIP RESOURCES

28 March 2024 Maundy Thursday

1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (A, B, C) Do This in Remembrance Additional Scriptures John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Exodus 12:1-14, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 Preparation This is a service of remembrance. At the end of this service are twelve brief stories from each of the disciples about their memories. Depending on the time allotted for this service, select all or just a few of the disciples’ stories to share at the proper time during the service. The setting should contain bread and juice, but not in the traditional Communion setting. The bread can be placed on two simple plates; the juice could be in small paper cups.

The center of the setting should contain the same number of small white, votive or battery candles to match the number of disciple readers selected and one large white one, all lit before the service begins.

As each disciple reads their story, the reader will extinguish one of the smaller candles. The larger white candle will remain lit throughout the service.

Quiet Prelude OR Enter in silence Welcome Welcome to this day of remembrance as we reflect on the last meal Jesus shared with his disciples. At that meal, he reviewed his teachings, answered their questions, challenged them to love one another, washed their feet to remind them of their calling to be servants.

Call to Worship: Exodus 12:14 Hymn of Centering Sing several times.

“Listen in the Silence” OR “Come, Holy Spirit, Come” OR “Santo, santo, santo/Holy, Holy, Holy” Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Scripture Reading: John 13:1-17, 31b-35

CCS 153 CCS 154 CCS 159

Prayer of Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer 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.

Prayerful Hymn “O God We Call” Sing several times.

OR “Breathe on Me, Breath of God” OR “Kyrie Eleison”

CCS 195 CCS 190 CCS 184

Background In the verses directly before today’s scripture passage, Paul confronts the Corinthians about their abuse of the Lord’s Supper. He calls out divisions found within the church about class and status—especially when they gather. In 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 (known as the words of institution for the Lord’s Supper), Paul passes on the tradition he received.

These verses are closest to the instruction found in Luke 22:15–20. Here Paul takes a break from chastising the Corinthian behavior to pass along important memories to strengthen and remind the people. His use of the Greek words for “received” and “handed on to you” shows how the practice in Corinth strayed from Jesus’s example. Straying from tradition and teaching caused divisions among the disciples in Corinth.

“On the night when he was betrayed” refers to the Last Supper—the meal Jesus shared with the disciples before he was betrayed, arrested, and crucified. This meal is a model for the way many Christians celebrate the Lord’s Supper: We give thanks; the bread (Christ’s body) is broken and given for us. The cup (Christ’s blood) is shared; we remember the covenant. We remember Christ and his sacrifice for us.

Reflections of Witnesses—The Disciples’ Stories See the script below.

We will hear disciples share memories about how and when Jesus called them to “follow me” and a little about what happened that night. Let’s listen to their stories…

Have twelve readers, if possible, one for each of the stories. If it is not possible to include all twelve, choose from this list. After each story is read, the reader extinguishes one of the candles.

1. Peter 2. Andrew 3. James the Greater 4. John the Beloved 5. Philip

6. Nathanael 7. Matthew 8. Thomas 9. James the Lesser 10. Simon the Zealot

11. Thaddeus

12. Judas Iscariot

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Reflections on the Sacred Meal Yes, memories can be powerful. They shape who we are and define an identity for individuals and groups. Great care is made to pass along memories from generation to generation.

Reminiscing on shared experiences within the community can bring people together and seal relationships; it can also divide relationships, as witnessed in Corinth. This shared memorybuilding creates legacy and shapes history. Jesus encouraged us to gather and “do this” regularly.

Our memories can be lost when we don’t practice, including those in our collective memory.

Today, as we share the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, we also engage our memories. Symbols, signs, and images help us remember. We engage our memories more often when items of everyday life are involved in our sacred practices. Jesus chose the ordinary staples of bread and wine to signal a new covenant given through his self-sacrifice. Gods’ spirit works through these tokens and builds our shared memories. Christ is present because he promised to be in the bread and wine.

Bread—and breaking the bread—is part of the Jewish Passover tradition as found in Exodus Chapter 12. Christians understand it as a metaphor for Christ’s body and a symbol of unity. The wine is symbolic of the blood shed at Passover. It is a metaphor for suffering. Christians understand it as representing the blood shed for us.

On Maundy Thursday, we remember Christ’s great love through his self-sacrifice, forgiveness, and promise of eternal life. In the elegant and simple meal of bread and wine, Jesus invites us to become part of God’s story. The body and blood are offered to each one personally, yet the Lord’s Supper is also for the gathered community. When we eat, we remember God’s presence with us in times past. We trust God is with us now. We expect God will remain with us as we move toward the future.

Like Corinth, our congregations may also be divided. In breaking the bread and sharing the cup, Jesus commits to us his life given as a covenant.

As we prepare for the Sacred Meal, spend some time in silence to prepare. You can use the questions provided to guide your thoughts or go your own way.

Questions for Personal Reflection Project or print the questions for all to see.

• In what ways have you learned the sacred memories from generations past?

• How have sacred memories shaped you and sustained you? How have they shaped and sustained your congregation?

• Why do you come to the Lord’s table? For what do you hunger and thirst?

Hymn of Sharing at the Table “Meet Me in a Holy Place” OR “Come Now, You Hungry” Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Communion Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

CCS 162 CCS 227

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 might 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 of the Bread and Wine Serving of the Bread and Wine Have the participants come forward to receive the emblems in an informal manner.

Ask them to imagine themselves at the table with Jesus that night.

Invite them to silently reflect on what they might see, who might be present, what they might be feeling remembering the stories of the disciples.

Hymn of Remembrance “’Tis Midnight, and on Olive’s Brow” CCS 456 “Jesus, Remember Me” Sing three times.

CCS 459 “Bleibet hier” CCS 468 Encourage participants to sing in German first, then sing in English. The words are printed at the bottom of the page with the German text meaning. Repeat this pattern at least three times.

Sending Forth “Maundy” means commandment. As those who have received Communion and feasted in community, we end our service of remembrance with the new commandment Jesus gives us: “Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

—John 13:34-35 Go now, remembering to live this new commandment every day.

Postlude

Reflections of Witnesses—Disciples’ Stories PETER You know my name as Peter, though my true name was Simon. I was born in Bethsaida and lived in Capernaum. My father was Jonah, and I was a fisherman.

At first, I was a follower of John the Baptist, but then my brother Andrew introduced me to Jesus of Nazareth. When I became his follower, Jesus renamed me for the Greek word for rock, Petros, and my new name became Peter!

Because of my impulsive and outspoken personality, I became spokesman for the twelve, but sometimes when I spoke too quickly and too plainly, it was embarrassing for others and me. Along with James and John, I was part of Jesus’s inner circle and witnessed many of his miracles firsthand.

On the night of the Last Supper, I was there when Jesus went to the Garden to pray, and I saw his agony. Then when the soldiers came to take him captive, I tried to protect him when I drew my

sword and cut off the ear of the High Priest’s servant. To my shock and dismay, Jesus said to put away my sword and told us that all who draw the sword will die by it. Then he healed the ear of the servant.

That was when we all ran from the place because we knew we could not help him. I did not follow him to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

ANDREW Andrew is my name, and I am Simon Peter’s brother. We were both born in Bethsaida and were both followers of John the Baptist until John proclaimed Jesus as “the Lamb of God.” That was when I went to find Jesus and spent a day with him. After that I found my brother and told him I had found the Messiah and took him to meet Jesus. We both left our boats behind and followed Jesus.

I witnessed many of Jesus’s miracles. I was the one who brought the boy with two fish and five barley loaves to Jesus which he multiplied and fed the 5,000 people.

Though I was not as close to Jesus as Peter and James and John, I was loyal and always tried to bring others to meet him that they might hear his message and follow him, too. I had a great hunger for the truth which I found first in John and then in Jesus.

To my shame, I ran away when Jesus was captured and did not follow him to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

JAMES THE GREATER My name is James, known as James the Great. With our father Zebedee my brother John and I were fishermen on the Sea of Galilee. My home was in Capernaum.

One day as John and I were working on our nets in preparation to fish, a man walking along the shore called to us. There was something in his voice that spoke to me and when I turned to look at John, I could see it spoke to him, too, so we both simply dropped our nets and got out of the boat to go with him. We just left our father to tend the nets and fish alone.

Jesus called me one of the “sons of thunder” because I was sometimes a little volatile. When a Samaritan village rejected Jesus’s presence, I wanted to call down fire from heaven on the place. I guess we came by our fiery natures honestly because our blessed mother Salome overstepped her bounds in our behalf, asking Jesus to grant us special positions in his kingdom!

As one of three in Jesus’s inner circle, I witnessed events no one else saw. I was there when Jesus raised the daughter of Jairus from the dead and after the Last Supper I was in the garden and saw Jesus’s agony.

I, too, was there to witness Judas’s kiss and Jesus’s capture. And it saddens me to think I ran away and did not follow him to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

JOHN, THE BELOVED I am John, the brother of James and the son of Zebedee and Salome. When I heard Jesus’s voice calling me to follow him, there was no question in my mind but that I would go with him. So, I just dropped the net I was working on and, along with James, left our father behind to tend the nets and fish alone.

As a believer in Jesus as the Son of God, I became one of Jesus’s closest friends and was known as the disciple Jesus loved. Since I held the distinction of being one from his inner circle, I was there when he performed some of his greatest miracles including the raising of Jairus’s daughter and the casting out of demons.

At the Last Supper I held the place of honor, sitting beside Jesus during the meal and when he went out to pray, I was there with Peter and James to see his suffering. I did not run away when Jesus was captured and taken away but tried to be unnoticed as I followed along with the crowd.

Because I represented our fishing business and was known by people in the area including Caiaphas, I was permitted to enter the court where Jesus was tried after he was captured. To see the terrible punishment of this man I had come to love was almost unbearable.

Despite my distress, I followed all the way to the cross and witnessed the horror of his crucifixion.

Extinguish one of the candles.

PHILIP My name is Philip, a follower of Jesus. I came from Bethsaida like others of Jesus’s disciples, and I knew Peter and Andrew. John the Baptist preached in the region where I lived, and I became his first disciple because I was seeking a path to salvation. John the Baptist told me that Jesus was the way to salvation, so I sought him out and when Jesus’s called me to follow him, I went willingly.

My belief was reinforced at the Wedding in Cana when Jesus turned the water into wine. I was there at the feeding of the 5,000, but when Jesus asked me where they could buy bread for that many people, I told him that eight month’s wages could not buy enough for one bite. It was then I realized how little I understood Jesus true message of salvation and the miracle of multiplying the bread and fish opened my eyes to his power.

I was at the Last Supper where Jesus washed each disciple’s feet but did not enter the garden when Jesus went to pray. When the soldiers came to take him captive, I ran and did not follow him to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

NATHANAEL I am Nathanael, sometimes called Bartholomew. I am from Cana in Galilee, the site of the Wedding Feast where Jesus turned water into wine. My father was Tolmai and we were an Israelite family.

My friend Philip was the one who introduced me to Jesus. I was skeptical about who Jesus was and said to Philip, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” But Jesus told me of a vision where he saw me sitting under a fig tree when Philip called me to be Jesus’s disciple. At that moment I knew Jesus was the Son of God! From then on, I was a faithful follower.

At the Last Supper my feet were washed and though at the time I did not fully understand what Jesus was trying to tell us, I felt the power of the message and did not doubt him. I did not go to the garden with him, but I witnessed his capture, and like the others, I ran away in fear. I did not follow him to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

MATTHEW My name is Matthew, but I was Levi before my call to follow Jesus. My father was Alphaeus, and I am a brother to another of Jesus’s disciples, James the Lesser. I was not a disciple of John the Baptist before I met Jesus. As a publican I was educated and knew several languages. My occupation was tax collector, so I collected duties on goods brought in by farmers, merchants, and caravans from afar. Because my collecting was not always honest, I became a wealthy man.

It was a surprise to most that Jesus would call a tax collector to follow him, but I was a keen observer of people and could capture and remember the smallest of details. When Jesus called me, my instincts told me that he truly was the Messiah. I immediately left my life of wealth and security and did not look back.

The day Jesus invited me to follow him, I threw a farewell feast at my home in Capernaum for all my friends so they could meet Jesus, too. From that day on, I no longer collected taxes, but collected souls for him.

After the Last Supper, I went to the gate of the garden, but did not enter. Jesus being taken captive was so frightening, I simply ran from there to a place of safety and did not go to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

THOMAS I am Thomas, also known as Didymas. I am a native of Galilee and I was a fisherman by trade. John and I knew each other from childhood, and I saw him and James sometimes while we were fishing. My nature was to question and doubt which sometimes caused problems for me, but when Jesus called me to follow him, I didn’t hesitate, I just left my nets and my boat and went with him.

Once when Jesus had gone across the Jordan to the place where John the Baptist had done his baptizing in the early days, he got word that Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, was sick unto death. We were surprised when Jesus did not go to be with them right away, but we knew his life was in danger if he went. He delayed two more days and when he finally told us he was going, I told the others that we should go so we could die with him.

So, I witnessed the raising of Lazarus and was at the Last Supper when Jesus washed all our feet. I did not go to the garden, but I saw him taken captive. Then, like all the others except my friend John, I ran away and did not follow him to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

JAMES THE LESSER My name is James. I am the son of Alphaeus and Mary and a younger brother to Matthew Levi. I came from Capernaum on the northwestern shore of Galilee. I did not go to the great party my brother threw to introduce Jesus to his friends, because I did not like what Matthew did for a living.

Rather I first met Jesus when I heard him teaching about the kingdom of God. Something within told me that what he was teaching was truth and when he called me to follow, I immediately did so.

I traveled with Jesus in all the years of his ministry, listened to his teachings and witnessed many miracles and healings. As a small man, I sometimes was left unnoticed by those other followers…thus my name James the Lesser which also distinguished me from James the Great or James’s son of Zebedee.

I was deeply touched by Jesus’s washing my feet at the Last Supper but did not go into the garden when he prayed. Jesus’s capture was such a fearful thing, I simply ran away to find a safe place. I did not follow him to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

SIMON THE ZEALOT I am Simon, sometimes called a zealot because of my great enthusiasm for the message Jesus spoke, but I am sometimes called Simon the Canaanite because I was born in Cana of Galilee.

Jesus called me to follow him after he called Andrew and Peter and James and John and about the same time as he called Thaddaeus and Judas Iscariot at the Sea of Tiberias. Without hesitation or doubt I left my occupation and joined those other disciples who were following Jesus.

During Jesus’s three years of ministry, I saw him perform healings and other miracles and witnessed the conversion of many. My belief and faith became ever stronger the more I heard his message about the kingdom of God. I was at the Last Supper when Jesus washed our feet, and I followed him to the entrance of the garden where he went to pray. When the soldiers captured Jesus and took him away, I was so afraid I could not bring myself to follow, so I ran and ran and found a safe place to hide.

Extinguish one of the candles.

THADDEUS My name is Thaddeus, and I am the youngest of Jesus’s disciples. I am known to have two other names; Judas and Lebbaeus which means dear or beloved. My father is James the Great, so I am the grandson of Zebedee and the nephew of John. I was born and raised in a family of fishermen,

and I followed my father to become a disciple of Jesus. As I followed him and witnessed his miracles, my devotion grew.

Simon the Zealot became my good friend during our travels. At the Last Supper, I began to sense that Jesus was trying to tell us goodbye, and my heart ached to understand. So, I asked him, “How is it you will reveal yourself to us and not to the world?” And Jesus’s answered, “If a man loves me and keeps my word, my father and I will love him, and we will come to him and abide with him.” I wondered how that could be if he was really going to die as he said.

When he left the supper and went to the garden to pray, I followed, but didn’t go into the garden. Then when the solders came and took him captive, in the chaos I slipped away and did not go to the cross.

Extinguish one of the candles.

JUDAS ISCARIOT My name is Judas and I come from Kerioth. I am Judean and did not come from Galilee as did the other eleven disciples. My father’s name was Simon. I first met Jesus when he came through Judea preaching his message of salvation, but his call for me to follow came at the Sea of Tiberias at the same time as he called Thaddaeus and Simon the Zealot. It was exciting to listen to his teaching and something about him called to my heart so I followed him.

In the beginning the others trusted me and because I liked handling money, I became treasurer for the group. Later I started secretly taking money from the bag, always thinking I would repay it, but more often than not I didn’t.

As time passed, I could not quite understand why Jesus did some of the things he did. He spoke often of the Kingdom, and I thought that meant he would become a great ruler. That was an exciting thought because I could then become an important person in his kingdom. When I tried to question him about such things, he once called me a devil! And another time he implied I was a thief.

When Mary anointed Jesus with very expensive ointment, I wanted to know why the ointment wasn’t sold and the money given to the poor…not that I was concerned about the poor, but because there was nothing left in the money bag since I had taken it all. Angry that I had been caught, disappointed that the kingdom Jesus spoke of was not what I thought and trying to find a way out, I went to the temple and made an agreement with the high priests that for thirty pieces of silver I would turn Jesus over to them.

Those coins were in my bag as we ate the Last Supper. After Jesus had washed our feet, he said one of us was going to betray him.

When John asked him who was going to betray him, Jesus said it was the one to whom he would give a piece of bread. Then he dipped the piece of bread and gave it to me and told me that what I was about to do, do quickly! No one else seemed to understand what Jesus was saying and no one else could feel the darkness that entered me just then!

I fled into the night and went to the temple to get the high priests and the soldiers and my thirty pieces of silver!

Extinguish the last of the circle of candles.

—Glenna Henry, Columbia, Missouri, USA; used with permission.

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS Years ABC—Letters Maundy Thursday

1 Corinthians 11:23–26 Exploring the Scripture In the verses directly before today’s scripture passage, Paul confronts the Corinthians about their abuse of the Lord’s Supper. He calls out divisions found within the church about class and status— especially when they gather. In 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 (known as “the words of institution for the Lord’s Supper”), Paul passes on the tradition he received. These verses are closest to the instruction found in Luke 22:15–20. Here Paul takes a break from chastising their behavior to pass along important memories to strengthen and remind the people. His use of the Greek words for “received” and “handed on to you” shows how the practice in Corinth strayed from Jesus’ example. This straying from tradition and teaching has caused divisions among the disciples in Corinth.

“On the night when he was betrayed” refers to the Last Supper—the meal Jesus shared with the disciples before he was betrayed, arrested, and crucified (v. 23). This meal is a model for the way many Christians celebrate the Lord’s Supper: • • • •

We give thanks; the bread (Christ’s body) is broken and given for us.

The cup (Christ’s blood) is shared.

We remember the covenant.

We remember Christ and his sacrifice for us.

Memories can be powerful. They shape who we are and define an identity for individuals and groups. Great care is made to pass along memories from generation to generation. Reminiscing on shared experiences within the community can bring people together and seal relationships; it can also divide relationships, as witnessed in Corinth. This shared memory-building creates legacy and shapes history. Jesus encouraged us to gather and “do this” regularly (vv. 24, 25). Our memories can be lost when we don’t practice, including those in our collective memory.

When we share the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, we engage our memories. Symbols, signs, and images help us remember. We engage our memories more often when items of everyday life are involved in our sacred practices. Jesus chose the ordinary staples of bread and wine to signal a new covenant given through self-sacrifice. Gods’ Spirit works through these tokens and builds our shared memories. Christ is present because he promised to be in the bread and wine.

Bread—and breaking the bread—is part of the Jewish Passover tradition. Christians understand it as a metaphor for Christ’s body and a symbol of unity. The wine is symbolic of the shed of blood at Passover. It is a metaphor for suffering.

On Maundy Thursday, we remember Christ’s great love through his self-sacrifice, forgiveness, and promise of eternal life. In the elegant and simple meal of bread and wine, Jesus invites us to become part of God’s story. The body and blood are offered to each one personally, yet the Lord’s Supper is also for the gathered community. When we eat, we remember God’s presence with us in times past. We trust God is with us now. We expect God will remain with us as we move toward the future.

Like Corinth, our congregations may also be divided. In breaking the bread and sharing the cup, Jesus commits to us his life given as a covenant.

Central Ideas 1. The church received instructions about the Lord’s Supper (Communion) from Jesus’ example, outlined in his Last Supper with his disciples.

2. We can connect with Christ through the ordinary acts of eating the bread, drinking the cup, and remembering him.

3. Regularly celebrating the Lord’s Supper shapes our collective memory and strengthens our community through retelling the story of Christ’s self-sacrifice and the new covenant he enacted.

4. On Maundy Thursday, we remember Christ’s self-sacrifice and acts that delivered us from sin and death.

Questions for the Speaker 1. In what ways have you learned the sacred memories from generations past?

2. How have sacred memories shaped you and sustained you? How have they shaped and sustained your congregation?

3. Why do people come to the Lord’s table? For what do they hunger and thirst?

4. How has celebrating the Lord’s Supper helped build collective memories and practices in your congregation?

5. How can remembering Christ’s self-sacrifice and the new covenant in Christ heal divisions within the congregation?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Letters Maundy Thursday 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 (A, B, C) NRSVUE Gathering Welcome Maundy Thursday is the night on which the Lord’s Supper first was 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 the 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: Hands clasped over the heart.

Say: “A chime will signal when to move into the next posture. You will not offer any words of prayer but instead will focus on sensing what type of prayer wants to emerge 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: Hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring a chime.

Close with a spoken “Amen.”

Invite participants to share what they experienced during the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 NRSVUE 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.

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 were 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 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 had 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.

Jesus’s command to do this in “remembrance of me” 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 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 persons 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 that are not Christ-like?

2. How can we remember Jesus in ways that enable us to take his way of life and 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: Ever-present God, forgive us when we are less than loving, less than hope-filled, less than you have created us to be. Your mercy and grace are always with us. May we find strength in your presence, and may we respond to your love with generous spirits. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 519, “In the Singing” Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group • •

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children •

You will need: Wet wipes

Say: 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 or take care of each other.

Use the wet wipes to take turns washing participants’ hands.

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

WORSHIP RESOURCES

29 March 2024 Good Friday

Hebrews 10:16-25 (A,B,C) Hope without Wavering Additional Scriptures Isaiah 52:13—53:12; Psalm 22; John 18:1—19:42, 31-35

Preparation Arrange a simple worship setting highlighted by a cross draped with a purple cloth, a large, white Christ candle, lighted, and some greenery. Later in the service the purple cloth will be replaced with a similar black cloth and the lights will be extinguished. Other lighting should also be dimmed throughout the service if possible.

For the Poetry Reading, secure a copy of Kneeling in Jerusalem by Ann Weems, Westminster John Knox Press, ISBN 0-664-21972-1 Quiet Prelude OR Enter in silence.

Welcome Statement on Lent Lent is the time of preparation on our journey to Holy Week…the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. During this time, we moved intently toward God, ridding ourselves of the distance and distractions we have built into our relationships. Lent is when we are called to respond with radical generosity and spiritual discipline to God’s covenants that we may draw near to the one we seek.

Entering into Worship My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but I find no rest. Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel. In you our ancestors trusted, and you delivered them. Do not be far from me, for trouble is near, and there is no one to help.

—Psalm 22:1-4, 11, adapted Holy Week Hymn “What Wondrous Love Is This” OR “’Tis Midnight, and on Olive’s Brow” OR “Bleibet hier” English: Stay with me, remain here with me, watch and pray, watch and pray.

CCS 454 CCS 456 CCS 468

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Opening Prayer Gracious God, once more we gather as followers of Jesus, much as those followers gathered so many years ago. The light we were following seems faint tonight and Jesus’s ministry seems almost lost. Tonight, we come with hearts open, yearning to believe in the unwavering hope that Jesus brought with his persistent message of love, forgiveness, and unity. We come together at this time in unity for the one who opened our eyes and hearts to all people. Amen.

Scripture Reading When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it. Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place because Jesus had often met there with the disciples. Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”

“Jesus of Nazareth” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said.

—John 18:1-5, adapted Hymn of Assurance “Jesus, Jesus, Ever Near Us” OR “Lead Me, Lord” Sing several times.

CCS 254 CCS 450

Poetry Reading “Come unto Me” from Kneeling in Jerusalem by Ann Weems, Westminster John Knox Press, ISBN 0-664-21972-1, page 53 OR “A Man of Ancient Time and Place,” CCS 30 Prayer of Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer Beaten and broken God, Across the world, pain and oppression like what you experienced on the first Good Friday still exist. It is because of this that 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 that all may see peace anew. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10:16-25 Hymn of Reflection “O God We Call” Sing three times.

OR “Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley”

CCS 195 CCS 452

Homily Based on Hebrews 10:16-25 OR Good Friday Reading, see below After the Homily or Good Friday Reading, remove the purple cloth on the cross and replace it with a black cloth.

Closing Hymn “God Forgave My Sin in Jesus’ Name” OR “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” without the optional ending OR “Jesus, Remember Me” Sing three times.

CCS 627 CCS 457 CCS 459

Scripture Reading After this, when Jesus knew that all was now finished and to fulfill the scripture, he said, “I am thirsty.” A jar full of sour wine was standing there. So, they put a sponge full of this wine on a branch and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the wine, he said, “It is finished.” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

— John 19:28-30, adapted Extinguish the Christ Candle.

Hymn of Unwavering Hope and Compassion “The Love of God” OR “Beneath the Cross of Jesus”

CCS 210 CCS 206

Silent Reflection and Exit Invite participants to remain seated in silent reflection for as long as desired, then exit in silence. Some soft lighting might be needed for safety.

Good Friday Reading Written for two readers but it could be divided up to involve more readers.

Reader 1: In Hebrews Chapter 10, God enacted a new covenant with humankind; it is in their hearts and on their minds. The covenant is with God and with those within the community. God promises not to remember the people’s sins and lawless deeds. Jesus’s self-sacrifice makes unnecessary the old practice of sacrifice to atone for sin. Through it, Christ provides a “new and living way” as acts of forgiveness allow the community to release anger and bitterness and resolve wrongdoing.

Reader 2: In the temples of the ancient world, the entranceway was access to sacred space. As found in Exodus, Chapter 26, the curtain guarding the holy of holies kept God veiled and inaccessible. Once a year, the high priest lifted the curtain; he alone entered the space where God was present. He made an offering for sins committed by himself and the community.

Reader 1: When Jesus died, the curtain was torn in half. Through his death, Jesus becomes the entry or access point; he shows believers the way into God’s presence. Just as tearing the curtain in the temple made God visible and accessible to all, Jesus’s flesh torn through crucifixion, makes God available to all.

Reader 2: Jesus—serving as the entryway to God’s presence—allows us to come to God with a “full assurance of faith”; we can enter in certainty and confidence.

Reader 1: Are there “curtains” through which you feel you need to pass to gain access to God? How does seeing Jesus as the entryway to God’s presence shape your acts as a disciple?

Is access to others prevented because they believe differently than you, offer a different perspective than you, or look different? Maybe they are homeless or want to worship in a way that is uncomfortable for you.

Reader 2: Jesus’s self-sacrifice and death made God accessible to all; he provided a way for all humanity to enter God’s presence and receive forgiveness. This new covenant assures us of God’s unconditional love for all people and gives us hope.

Reader 1: This covenant is completed when we “provoke one another to love and good deeds” and meet regularly. The message is strong encouragement to put our faith into action every day, to make good things happen, and to share our lives as disciples.

Reader 2: On Good Friday, when we remember Christ’s suffering and death, feelings of anger and shame can arise regarding those who crucified Jesus and for ourselves as we recognize our failings and sin.

Reader 1: We remember God’s love and that our purpose for gathering is directed outward in love for others.

Reader 2: When we gather to worship, we remember the sacraments and God’s promises and faithfulness. We can express our love to God and practice love for one another, including our neighbors.

Both: Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering.

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS Years ABC—Letters Good Friday

Hebrews 10:16–25 Exploring the Scripture Today’s passage begins with declaring a new covenant God makes with humankind. Jesus secured this new covenant (promised in Jeremiah 31) through his self-sacrifice and death. The new covenant is not written. Instead, it is “in their hearts” and “on their minds” (v. 16). The covenant is with God and with those within the community.

God promises not to remember the people’s sins and lawless deeds (v. 17). Jesus’ self-sacrifice makes unnecessary the old practice of sacrifice to atone for sin. Through it, Christ provides a “new and living way” as acts of forgiveness allow the community to release anger and bitterness and resolve wrongdoing (v. 20).

In the temples of the ancient world, the entranceway was access to sacred space. The curtain guarding the Holy of Holies kept God veiled and inaccessible (Exodus 26:31–37). Once a year, the high priest lifted the curtain; he alone entered the space where God was present. He made an offering for sins committed by himself and the community. When Jesus died, the curtain ripped in half. Through his death, Jesus becomes the entry (access point). He shows believers the way into God’s presence.

Just as tearing the curtain in the temple made God visible and accessible to all, Jesus’ flesh torn through crucifixion, makes God available to all. Jesus—serving as the entryway to God’s presence— allows us to come to God with a “full assurance of faith” (v. 22). We can enter in certainty and confidence.

In the new covenant, we are assured of God’s unconditional love for us through baptism, where our hearts are cleaned and our bodies washed (v. 22), and we trust God’s forgiveness through the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. The “confession of our hope” is a statement of belief, like a creed or statement of faith (v. 23). Because we belong to God’s family, we have God’s gift of hope to anchors us in times of trouble.

To complete the covenant, we should “provoke one another to love and good deeds” (v. 24) and meet regularly (v. 25). The message is strong encouragement to put faith into action, make good things happen, and share lives as disciples. Such a discipline requires trust in God and the community that bears Christ’s name.

In early Christian understanding, “the Day” is the expected day of the Lord or the day of judgment when Christ returns and God wraps up history (v. 25). On Good Friday, when we remember Christ’s suffering and death, feelings of anger and shame can arise regarding those who crucified Jesus and for ourselves as we recognize our failings and sin. We should remember God’s love and that our purpose for gathering is directed outward in love for others.

When we gather to worship, we remember the sacraments and God’s promises and faithfulness.

We can express our love to God and practice love for one another, including our neighbors. “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” (vv. 24– 25).

Central Ideas 1. God enacted a new covenant with humankind; it is in their hearts and on their minds.

2. Jesus’ self-sacrifice and death made God accessible to all. Jesus provided a way to enter God’s presence and receive forgiveness.

3. The new covenant assures us of God’s unconditional love and gives us hope.

4. Believers must put faith into action, make good things happen, and share in life as disciples.

Questions for the Speaker 1. What are the “curtains” through which we pass to gain access to God or prevent access to others?

(Consider “proper” belief, a particular spiritual experience, a way of living, upholding a specific value, a way of worshiping or interpreting scripture, an approach to social justice, and so forth.)

2. How does seeing Jesus as the entryway to God’s presence shape your acts as a disciple?

3. What role does meeting together play in our ability to express love and offer good deeds?

4. What has been your experience of offering or receiving forgiveness?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Letters Good Friday Hebrews 10:16–25 (A, B, C) NRSVUE 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 what 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: Today our spiritual practice will be a body prayer.

Show the 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: Hands clasped over the heart.

Say: “A chime will signal when to move into the next posture. You will not offer any words of prayer but instead will focus on sensing what type of prayer wants to emerge 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: Hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring a chime.

Close with a spoken “Amen.”

Invite participants to share what they experienced during the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table Hebrews 10:16–25 NRSVUE “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,” and he 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 brothers and sisters, 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 persecution. People 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.

Hebrews reassures listeners of the new covenant and God’s grace embodied in Christ and 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 may 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 bright future as we look toward Easter Sunday. We are called to join where God is working in our world and to discern God’s will in our lives and the community. We are called to encourage one another in times of struggle and recognize that 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 for you in your time of darkness?

3. What encouraging words might you share with others 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.

The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: God who knows all sorrow, we share our resources to bring light into corners of darkness. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others so they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 463, “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded” Closing Prayer

Optional Addition Depending on Group •

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

30 March 2024 Holy Saturday

1 Peter 4:1-8 (A, B, C) Keep a Faithful Vigil Additional Scriptures Job 14:1-14; Psalm 31:1-4, 15-16; Matthew 27;57-66; Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b Preparation/Options for Observing Holy Saturday Holy Saturday observance might include a very simple Service of the Word, focused on scriptures alternating with prayers of the people. This service may be used in part or whole for the entire congregation, for a small gathering, as a family prayer time at a home, for an online virtual community, or for individual meditation.

Traditional hours of prayer time are 6 a.m., noon, 6 p.m., and 8 p.m. Consider one of these traditional prayer times to simply offer the Prayers of the People and then read and reflect upon the scripture readings. Tailor the experience to fit the spiritual needs of your group.

Another option… Holy Saturday ends with the setting of the sun on Saturday, keeping a faithful vigil can take place throughout the day and end with sunset. This simple Service of the Word could also be held in a park, backyard of a church facility, or in the building. It is recommended that this vigil be shared with others. Whether or not you are alone or with others, you might do so outdoors, weather permitting, ending just before sunset on Saturday. As the sun is setting, candles can be lit as you and your group observe additional times of quiet meditation and prayer leading into the darkness. We wait for the darkness to be replaced with Easter light.

Gather in Quiet Meditation Welcome Statement on Holy Saturday Holy Saturday falls within the three days of Holy Week (“Holy Triduum”) between the evening of Maundy Thursday and the evening of Easter. It should be noted that observance of this day is one of the major feasts of the year and the church returns to the ancient reckoning of the day beginning at sundown. Christ has suffered, been crucified on the cross, and buried in a tomb. Therefore, Holy Saturday ends as the sun sinks below the horizon. On Holy Saturday we keep a faithful vigil observing this time with a prayer vigil, readings from the scriptures and Prayers of the People.

Song of Hope “What Wondrous Love Is This”

CCS 454

OR “How Long, O God, How Long?”

CCS 455

Prayer of Hope Holy Spirit of presence, Sometimes the darkness feels disorientating. What direction are we facing? Are we moving toward peace? Headed in the opposite direction? Even in darkness, we can use our ears to listen for your call, beckoning us. God, open our ears.

Today is a dark day. We grieve for the pain inflicted on Jesus, the pain humans continue to inflict on one another, the pain we inflict on the world, and the pain that seems inexplicable, with no one to blame. There is so much pain to grieve. This pain and darkness feel heavy and thick. God, ease our grief. Breathe peace into the land. Open our senses to hear and feel peace, even when we can’t see it. Open our hearts to sharing peace, even when we can’t bear it.

In the name of Jesus, who feels pain with us. Amen.

Focus Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:1-8 Homily Based on 1 Peter 4:1-8 Personal Reflection Project or print the questions for all to see.

• In what ways can you draw closer to God now?

• Are there behaviors or philosophies, such as materialism, consumerism, self-centeredness, and so forth, in your community that might lead you away from God? • Keeping a vigil means to pay attention or focus our thoughts on something specific while we wait.

When have you waited for something? What did you do as you waited?

Song of Promise Sing or hum after each scripture reading.

“Jesus, Remember Me” Include Bb and C instruments, playing the parts provided in Community of Christ Sings Musicians Edition.

CCS 459

Scripture Reading: Matthew 27:57-66 Song of Promise Sing or hum after each scripture reading “Jesus, Remember Me” Include Bb and C instruments, playing the parts provided in Community of Christ Sings Musicians Edition.

CCS 459

Scripture Reading: Psalm 31:1-4 Song of Promise Sing or hum after each scripture reading.

“Jesus, Remember Me” Include Bb and C instruments, playing the parts provided in Community of Christ Sings Musicians Edition.

CCS 459

Scripture Reading: Job 14:1-2, 7-9, 14 Song of Promise Sing or hum after each scripture reading.

“Jesus, Remember Me”

CCS 459

Include Bb and C instruments, playing the parts provided in Community of Christ Sings Musicians Edition.

Responsive Prayers of the People Leader: With confidence and trust let us pray to the creator of all there is…

Let us pray for the church community throughout the world; for our prophet-president, the First Presidency, the Council of Twelve Apostles, the Presiding Bishopric, the financial concerns of the church, the presiding evangelist, the quorums, mission center leadership, congregational leadership and all ministries of mission and mercy throughout the church. Lord of compassion...

People: In your mercy, hear us.

Leader: For the mission of the church, that in faithful witness it may preach the gospel to the ends of the earth. Lord of compassion...

People: In your mercy, hear us.

Leader: For peace in the world, a spirit of respect and reconciliation may grow among nations and peoples. Lord of compassion...

People: In your mercy, hear us.

Leader: For the poor, the persecuted, the sick, and all who suffer, for refugees, prisoners, and all in danger; that they may be relieved and protected. Lord of compassion...

People: In your mercy, hear us.

Leader: For those whom we have injured or offended. Lord of compassion...

People: In your mercy, hear us.

Leader: For grace to amend our lives and to further the reign of God. Lord of compassion...

People: In your mercy, hear us.

Leader: In communion with all those who have walked along the way of the disciple. Lord of compassion...

People: In your mercy, hear us.

Leader: Lord, as we keep vigil in these closing hours of this sabbath, may you give us strength to bring our whole selves to the joy that only come from participation in your resurrection, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hymn of Repentance “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” OR “Ah, Holy Jesus”

CCS 206 CCS 461

Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b Unison Prayer for Peace Consider having the stanza read aloud first by a single reader, asking the people to join on a second time through.

“Rejected and Despised,” CCS 462, Stanza 3 Blessing Leader: May God bless us, that in us may be found love and humility, obedience and thanksgiving, discipline, gentleness, and peace.

People: Amen.

Postlude

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS Years ABC—Letters Holy Saturday

1 Peter 4:1–8 Exploring the Scripture The passage for today is from 1 Peter. While this letter has traditionally been credited to the Apostle Peter, scholars have various ideas about who the author was and when it was written.

Theologian Philip D. Krey simplifies the argument by saying, “…an elder wrote this letter to other elders for a church that was in exile, ostracized, and persecuted by the Gentile cultures around it” (Feasting on the Word: Year B, Volume 2, Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 2008).

The author begins this passage by pointing out that “Christ suffered in the flesh” (v. 1). He went on to suggest that if we follow his example of rejecting things of this world that do not draw us closer to the divine, we too will likely experience innocent suffering. The author writes that this suffering can happen because people are “surprised that you no longer join them in the same excesses of dissipation” (v. 4). And so, followers were rejected and mistreated.

It may be essential to note that suffering for the sake of pain is not the point. The point of innocent suffering is that it happens when one actively looks for the message and mission of Jesus Christ. When one climbs a mountain, they experience discomfort and pain, but the suffering is to reach the summit, not experience suffering.

The main message being declared is that followers of Jesus should live like Jesus rather than aspire to human yearning in their efforts to draw closer to God. The text offers examples of types of activities to be avoided, so you will not be drawn away from God. They are “living in licentiousness, passions, drunkenness, revels, carousing, and lawless idolatry” (v. 3).

While this lists specific behaviors, it is worth noting the author suggested principles rather than a complete list of behaviors to be avoided. The speaker might want to connect this idea with Community of Christ Enduring Principles to explain the point in today’s terminology. These might include Worth of All Persons and Responsible Choices, among others. They may also want to connect it with guidance found in continuing revelation about how followers should deal with certain things of this world.

Above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth.

Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b Another part of the text to point out is as the author notes: “the gospel was proclaimed even to the dead” (v. 6). This message offers a note of hope because God is interested in reaching even those who have already died to offer redemption, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Finally, it may be valuable to highlight the author’s point about love. “Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins” (v. 8). Readers are reminded in part of what is commonly known as the Great Commandment, in which Jesus teaches his followers to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). The author of 1 Peter suggests that by doing this, many sins may be forgiven or at least hidden. Again, such an image offers hope of forgiveness, mutual love, joy, and reconciliation.

Central Ideas 1. Disciples of Jesus Christ must allow their love of God to replace yearning for the approval of their contemporaries.

2. Being a follower of Jesus will likely result in innocent suffering and perhaps rejection by others.

3. Christian disciples are called “above all” to uphold love for all or, as the Great Commandment puts it, “love your neighbor as yourself.”

Questions for the Speaker 1. In what ways, such as intentionally working toward deeper spiritual formation, can disciples draw closer to God? 2. What might be some behaviors or philosophies, such as materialism, consumerism, selfcenteredness, and so forth, in our current cultural settings that might lead us away from God? 3. How might followers of Jesus suffer innocently (as Jesus did) in our modern settings?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Letters Holy Saturday 1 Peter 4:1–8 (A, B, C) NRSVUE 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 be focused 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 the 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: Hands clasped over the heart.

Say: “A chime will signal when to move into the next posture. You will not offer any words of prayer but instead will focus on sensing what type of prayer wants to emerge 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: Hands clasped over the heart (one minute). Ring a chime.

Close with a spoken “Amen.”

Invite participants to share what they experienced during the body prayer.

Sharing Around the Table 1 Peter 4:1–8 NRSVUE 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 time in the flesh 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 debauchery, 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 to Christian communities in Asia Minor in what is modern-day Turkey.

Unlike some letters, it was meant to be shared in many groups when they gathered for worship. It was written to the non-Jewish disciples who formed most Christian communities in this region.

These new Christians were in an uncomfortable social predicament. They no longer took part in the rituals and behaviors of their past. Their families and former friends, surprised by their new behavior, alienated and persecuted (verbally abused) them. This letter was meant to uphold their faith, reminding them not to relapse into old behaviors.

The counsel urged new believers to act counter to their surrounding culture. Such is contrary to the human wish to “fit in” or “go along with the crowd.” The writer reminded the communities that this likely would 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.

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.

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 so they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 470, “Shadows Lengthen into Night” Closing Prayer

Optional Addition Depending on Group •

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 to remember people who have died. Sometimes during a vigil people will hold candles and pray or sing.

Today, I will 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. Close the time by thanking participants for holding a vigil for Jesus with you.

WORSHIP RESOURCES

31 March 2024 Easter Day, Resurrection of the Lord

1 Corinthians 15:1-11 Cristo vive/Christ Is Living Additional Scriptures Isaiah 25:6-9; Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24; Mark 16:1-8; John 20:1-18; Doctrine and Covenants 163:9 Preparation Refer to the Toronto Centre Place, online church, for a listing of hymns that are available on YouTube.

This can provide accompaniment for hymns.

For the Sending Forth reading, secure a copy of Circle of Grace, a book by Jan Richardson from Wanton Gospeller Press, ISBN 978-0-9778162-7-9 Invite someone from the congregation to prepare to respond to each verse of the hymn, “Woman, Weeping in the Garden,” with a dramatic reading, adapted from John 20:1-18. Use a soloist for the stanzas or spend time with the congregation to help them be secure with this song.

For Focus Moment, prepare plastic Easter eggs, construction paper hearts, pen or pencil for each participant. Consider creating workstations around the worship space. You may want soft music playing during this activity.

Have copies printed of the cross found at the end of the service to be used during the labyrinth meditation.

If your congregation has an Easter Choir, include a ministry of their music.

Praise Prelude Welcome This is the day that the Lord has made!

Scripture Reading: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

Praise Hymn “Christ Is Alive!”

OR “Lift Your Glad Voices”

CCS 473 CCS 475

Call to Worship Scripture Reading: Isaiah 25:6-9 Statement Christ is Risen! We are an Easter people…believing that God is God of life, not of death.

In Christ, God’s love finally will overcome all that demeans and degrades the creation, even death itself. Easter also gives us hope that the tragic suffering and death of victims, throughout history, is not the last word. We believe the Holy Spirit will transform all creation to share in the glory of God. —“We Share Basic Beliefs,” Sharing in Community of Christ Herald Publishing House, page 38, adapted Hymn “Now the Green Blade Rises” OR “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today”

CCS 482 CCS 476

Confession Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer 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 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.

—Tiffany and Caleb Brian Someone dressed like Mary Magdalene takes their place during the next hymn so that the congregation will be able to see them and hear their voice, telling the story of their encounter with Jesus in the garden.

Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Woman, Weeping in the Garden” Stanza 1 Response by Mary Magdalene

CCS 478

It was early on the first day of the week and there was still darkness at this time of day, as I walked to the tomb…the sun was just rising. There was also a darkness in my very soul as I mourned the loss of my friend, my Lord. When I arrived in the garden, the large stone which had sealed the tomb where his body lay was moved away! And he was gone! How could this be?

Who would have taken him? I ran to Simon Peter and his friend to share my despair. They hurried to return to the tomb and were witnesses to the linens that had wrapped Jesus, lying on the ground. Not knowing, not understanding... they returned to their homes.

Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Woman, Weeping in the Garden” Stanza 2

CCS 478

Response by Mary Magdalene I felt such despair…and yet I peered inside the tomb in search of my Lord.

And inside the tomb I saw two angels dressed in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been…one sitting where his head had lain, one at his feet. This cannot be…I was trembling in fear and my tears overcame me.

Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Woman, Weeping in the Garden” Stanza 3

CCS 478

Response by Mary Magdalene Through my tears, I looked outside the tomb and saw the gardener....and he asked me why I was weeping and who I was looking for. I pleaded with him to tell me if he had taken the body of Jesus away and where had he lain him? I needed to go to him...

Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Woman, Weeping in the Garden” Stanza 4

CCS 478

Response by Mary Magdalene And then I heard him so tenderly speak my name…“Mary”…and in that moment, I knew…and turned to him with so much love…“Rabboni!”

Ministry of Music OR Congregational Hymn “Woman, Weeping in the Garden” Stanza 5

CCS 478

Response by Mary Magdalene I wanted to embrace Jesus, but he said, “no”…he had not ascended. And he asked me to go to his brothers and tell them he was preparing to ascend to his God…our God. And so I ran to them and told them I had seen our Lord and all was just as he had promised…Jesus is alive! Death has been defeated! The Resurrected Christ is in our midst! He called my name!

—John 20:1-18, adapted

Proclamation of the Word Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 Focus Moment Today is Easter Sunday! On Easter Sunday we celebrate Jesus’s return to life. The people that crucified Jesus were trying to show how powerful they were by using violence to keep control.

When Jesus rose, he showed everyone that there was nothing more powerful than God’s love.

Today, I am going to give you each an Easter egg to hide somewhere in our space. Instead of having candy or a prize inside though, I would like each of you to write or draw a message of love on this heart and place it inside the egg. This way, when someone finds your egg, they will open it to find a message of love that will remind them they are loved and called to love others as Jesus did.

Once you have your message written and placed inside your egg, you may go find a place in our space to hide it and then head back to your seat.

—Sacred Space, Year B, Easter Easter Message Based on 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 Hymn Halle, Halle, Hallelujah” Sing several times.

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

CCS 86 CCS 206 CCS 457

Commitment Labyrinth Meditation See pattern at the end of the service.

Begin meditation music.

You have been given a picture of a cross that we will use today in our spiritual practice of “walking” the labyrinth. Use your finger to enter the path and follow it to the center. Our intention is to slow ourselves and reflect on who the Living Christ is calling us to be today.

As you enter the sacred space of your labyrinth, quiet your mind and allow yourself to let go of whatever needs to be released.

Spend a few extra moments at the center of the labyrinth. This is the time to meditate, pray and listen to God speaking to your heart. Receive Spirit through meditation and prayer.

You may hear Jesus speaking your name. Who is the resurrected Christ to you?

When you are ready to leave the center, follow the path outward and reflect upon what has been awakened in your heart and what you bring back to this world.

Ordinary eyes may see this cross and say this represents the end. Let your eyes of faith look at this cross and say this is the beginning of your discipleship.

End meditation music.

Disciples’ Generous Response Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 163:9 Statement

During the Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. Through our offerings we join in making God’s work visible in the world.

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.

If your congregation is meeting online, remind participants they can give through CofChrist.org/give or through eTithing.org (consider showing these URLs on screen).

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes Hymn “That Easter Morn, at Break of Day” OR “Christ Is Living/Cristo vive” Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

OR “Alleluia” Sing several times.

CCS 480 CCS 481 CCS 116

Benediction Sending Forth Reading “Seen” for Easter Day by Jan Richardson, Circle of Grace, page 154 OR “I Know That My Redeemer Lives!” CCS 34

Postlude and Recessional Activity As the Postlude plays, invite participants to search for a hidden Easter egg to take home (one per person). Spend the week pondering and praying over the message of love inside.

SERMON AND CLASS HELPS Year B—Letters Easter Day, Resurrection of the Lord

1 Corinthians 15:1–11 Exploring the Scripture Chapter 15 of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians begins with a recitation of creedal statements.

Familiar principles of faith ground and connect the young church of new disciples in Corinth to the earliest Christian testimonies of Jesus. Paul also frames it in language that speaks to the heart of the Jesus experience and the gospel’s good news. As Paul recounts how he, the people of Corinth, and others received the gospel, he shines a light on the transformation that “the grace of God that is with me” brings to all people who receive the gospel found in Jesus Christ, the Risen One (v. 10).

For Paul, it is a journey of discovery, a new way of living and seeing the world. It goes beyond a set of belief statements. It becomes life in action, embodying enduring principles and proclaiming to all who will listen to the power found in the death and resurrection of Jesus, God’s gift of grace. It is also a holy rhythm of receiving and proclaiming—passing along the gospel—so others might experience “being saved [and] hold firmly to the message…” (v. 2).

This way of being is integrally connected with how Paul experiences the designation of an apostle. He does not understand it as an office of the ecclesiastically elite, but instead as a function of whole-life discipleship as a missionary commissioned to share the transforming power of Christ who “died for our sins” (v. 3). Christ’s death was not as ransom, but to set the world free from the violence of tyranny. Love overcomes hate, greed, and the powers wreaking havoc, destruction, and desolation in countless lives through the resurrection. Hope is born.

Telling the sacred story, handed down from the prophets of old, fulfilled through the life and resurrection of Jesus Emmanuel, God with us, and in the spirit of Paul’s words to the Corinthians, calls us still. As disciples and as the church, every generation stands as witnesses who have received the gospel sent to proclaim and share as living witnesses of Jesus, the Peaceable One, Jesus, the Risen One. Each time the people of God gather in worship, fellowship, breaking bread, and drinking wine, the gospel story is lived and shared. As we go into the world, Christ lives in and through us in the settings of our everyday lives. The old story becomes ever new and expressed in changing times through diverse peoples, cultures, and spaces. The freeing truths of the gospel take shape and form, and, like Paul, a new generation of disciples say, “by the grace of God, I am what I am, and his grace toward me has not been in vain” (v. 10).

Central Ideas 1. For Paul, the gospel is a new way of living and seeing the world.

2. Hold firm to the gospel message and witness the living, risen Christ.

3. Receive and proclaim the good news of the gospel so others may come to believe and truly live.

Questions for the Speaker 1. How have you witnessed the risen Christ on your journey of life and faith?

2. How have the testimonies of others brought you closer to knowing and experiencing Christ and deepening your faith? Through these testimonies, how do you feel connected to past, present, and future generations?

3. How do the message and living presence of Jesus Christ challenge you or your congregation to be proclaimers of Jesus Christ in the world today?

4. How are you being called to be agents of change and transformation?

SACRED SPACE: A RESOURCE FOR SMALL-GROUP MINISTRY

Year B Letters Easter Sunday 1 Corinthians 15:1–11 NRSVUE 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. Hallelujah!

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. May we spread that peace just 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 they’re new soil for growing peace. Clear away our doubts that peace may not come 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 1 Corinthians 15:1–11 NRSVUE Now I want you to understand, brothers and sisters, the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you in turn received, in which also you stand, through which also you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message that I proclaimed to you—unless you have come to believe in vain.

For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures and that he was buried and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.

Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me. For I am the least of the apostles, unfit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me has not been in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I but the grace of God that is with me. Whether then it was I or they, so we proclaim and so you believed.

The glory of Easter morning is captured in the Gospels, each treating and focusing on different aspects of the event. These stories hold tremendous power. They can bring people to faith and foster a resurgence of faith in those who are wandering.

Traditionally a Gospel is used on resurrection Sunday accompanied by glorious hymns and images of empty tombs and men and women dashing to and fro to tell what has happened.

Paul knows these stories. Most still were being told in the oral tradition at the time of Paul’s writing, but they were foundational for followers of The Way. Paul acknowledges the first witness of the resurrection and proclaims that he, the least of God’s servants, was the last to meet the Living Christ. But did he mean that no one else would encounter the Living Christ after him, or did he simply mean that his last example of a living witness would be him?

The Corinthians are amid conflict within the community. Paul wants to remind them of their foundations: the resurrection of Jesus and how that significantly has changed their lives. He urges them to remember that it is in Jesus that they are being saved, and that they stand. He is trying to impress on them that what they stand for and how they think make a difference in how they act toward each other and their neighbors.

The text today conveys the real power and meaning of the resurrection: Lives change when people reconcile to God and each other. A condition that leads to justice and peace because of The Way influences behavior and relationships.

Questions 1. Recall the stories of Easter morning. Do these stories restore in you a sense of belonging or perhaps a sense of purpose?

2. Have you experienced a time when going back to foundational beliefs has helped you find your way into the future? Foundational belief means the place where you started. Looking at the starting point often can help us find the ways that we have followed Jesus and how our faith and beliefs have deepened, matured, and borne fruit. Paul calls this “being saved.”

3. Paul shares with Corinthians that he is the least of God’s servants, unfit to be called an apostle.

He then shares how God has used him in the saving work of Christ. If Paul is unfit and does so much, what implications does that have for our witness? Is everyone, therefore, able to share “the hope that is in you?”

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 so they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 473, “Christ Is Alive!”

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 will ask you to find certain things, and I want you to work together to find something that fits my description. Then bring it back to me. Once we have found all the items, we will talk about how each can remind us of important things about Easter.

Use the list below to send participants on the 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 of them.

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 that 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 that reminds us that Jesus rose on the third day.

Next, I asked you to find me something heavy. Why do you think I needed something heavy? It’s 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 needed something empty because Jesus’s followers found his tomb empty when they went to find him. They discovered he had risen.

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

Finally, I asked you to find something that you could use to share information. Why do you think I wanted you to find this? It’s 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 every person for helping. Give all participants one of the objects to put away while returning to their seat.