Transfiguration of Our Lord – February 19, 2023
The Order of Worship at 9:00 am
As always, we pray that worship at Redeemer is a blessing for you, even as your participation blesses us, whether we are gathering in the name of Christ in-person or online. As you are comfortable, we encourage you to sing the hymns and to sing or speak the congregational portions of the liturgy in bold type.
At this time, the wearing of face coverings onsite is optional and left to personal preference. Knowing that individuals and families have varying needs at this time, the balcony is reserved as a mask-required area.
Please use the links available on the viewing page to let us know that you are worshiping with us, to submit any prayer requests, to let us know if you need help or are available to help a neighbor, and to continue giving financially to support the ongoing ministries of Redeemer.
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February is Black History Month, dedicated to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history. The Black History Month 2023 theme, “Black Resistance,” explores how "African Americans have resisted historic and ongoing oppression, in all forms, especially the racial terrorism of lynching, racial pogroms and police killings," since our nation's earliest days.
During Black History Month, we change our weekly confession to focus on the sin of racism. Lament is a way for us to recognize the harm caused by racism. Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:35-39). God’s grace in Christ frees us for the difficult work of recognizing and lamenting racism and the way this sin has too often silenced or ignored the contributions of people of color.
CONFESSION
We are all part of one body in Christ, called to act with equity, fairness, and justice. God’s saving love creates grace-filled spaces within us and within our relationships. God’s saving love calls and leads us toward rooting out the racism that continues to infect the body.
Within the whole human family, people of color have experienced both interpersonal aggression and structural oppression instead of abundant life. We recognize and lament the harm racism has caused. We cry out to you, | hear our lament, O God.
We have assigned the notion of race to human beings created in God’s own divine image. We have judged God’s beautiful diversity by our flawed and artificial standards. We cry out to you, | hear our lament, O God.
We have used language and images in ways that equate black and dark with dirt and sin, and that fail to welcome the treasures of darkness in God’s good creation. We cry out to you, | hear our lament, O God.
When one part of the body of Christ hurts, the whole body hurts. As we listen to people who are harmed by racism. We call to you, | open our hearts, O God.
As we reflect on our daily interactions with people and communities of color. We call to you, | open our hearts, O God.
As we labor to create a loving and safe community for our siblings of color. We call to you, | open our hearts, O God.
Holy and merciful God, as your people we recommit ourselves to loving one another as you have loved us. We pray in the name of the one who has made us one, Jesus Christ our Lord. | Amen.
Standing
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. | And also with you.
O God, in the transfiguration of your Son you confirmed the mysteries of the faith by the witness of Moses and Elijah, and in the voice from the bright cloud declaring Jesus your beloved Son, you foreshadowed our adoption as your children. Make us heirs with Christ of your glory, and bring us to enjoy its fullness, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. | Amen
A pastor will come through the congregation to receive prayer request cards. If you are worshiping online, please use the Prayer Request button underneath the live feed.
Seated
CHILDREN’S SERMON
Standing
THE HOLY GOSPEL Matthew 17:1-9 Shortly before he enters Jerusalem, where he will be crucified, Jesus is revealed to Peter, James, and John in a mountaintop experience of divine glory called the transfiguration.
The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.
Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ.
Kneeling or seated PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Called together to follow Jesus, we pray for the church, the world, and all in need.
Embolden your church as it witnesses to the majesty and mercy of your Son. Equip lay preachers, deacons, and pastors. Move us to share our stories of your faithfulness and forgiveness; may our lives proclaim your greatness.
Merciful God, receive our prayer.
Dwell with your whole creation, from the tallest mountain peak to the deepest valley. Bless the work of conservation organizations and protect vital habitats, be with the people of Turkey, Syria, and other places that have been devastated by natural disasters. Support the work of disaster relief agencies around the world.
Merciful God, receive our prayer.
Guide and give wisdom to all in authority: our mayor Dickens and local leaders, our governor Kemp and state legislators, our president Bidden and national legislators. Bring freedom and justice to all nations.
Merciful God, receive our prayer.
Give shelter to those lacking safe homes. Spur communities to work for fair housing for all. Protect our neighbors whose dwellings do not keep out dangerous cold or heat; accompany with your touch those who are homebound, sick, or isolated especially:
Merciful God, receive our prayer.
Make us eager to receive your Word in scripture. Help us recognize and obey Jesus’ voice in the needs of our neighbors; make us confident to follow the way of the cross.
Merciful God, receive our prayer.
Here other intercessions may be offered. Receive our thanksgiving for the holy ones who have guided us in faithfulness and gathered even the unlikely as your people. With our forebears in faith and all who have hoped in you, teach us to wait with courage until the promised day dawns. Bless the family and friends of those recently departed:
Merciful God, receive our prayer.
We bring to you our needs and hopes, O God, trusting your wisdom and power revealed in Christ crucified.
Amen.
Standing PEACE
The peace of Christ be with you always. | And also with you.
Please share a sign of blessing with your fellow worshipers in whatever way is comfortable for you.
Seated
GATHERING OF GIFTS
MUSIC by Redeemer Jazz Trio
Standing OFFERING PRAYER
Liberating God, you break the bonds of injustice and let the oppressed go free. Receive these offerings in thanksgiving for all your works of merciful power, and shape us as people of your justice and freedom. You we magnify and adore, through Jesus our Savior, | Amen.
GREAT THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you. | And also with you. Lift up your hearts! | We lift them to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. | It is right to give our thanks and praise.
O God most mighty, O God most merciful, hear us as we praise, call us to your meal, grant us your life.
When the earth was formless and empty, you created order and beauty. When Abraham and Sarah were barren, you delivered them a child; when the Israelites were enslaved, you led them to freedom; Ruth faced starvation, David fought Goliath, and the psalmists cried out for healing with all your people we implore you to save us, and we praise you for granting us life.
You came to our world in Jesus our friend. He was born among the poor, he lived under oppression, he wept over the city. Full of compassion, he granted the people your life.
In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks; broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.
Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this for the remembrance of me.
Come, Breath of creation, enliven our bones. Come, living Water, replenish the earth. Come, holy Fire, make us lights in the world. Like a tree rich with fruit, nourish us with your bounty. From your throne, teach us justice. In your arms, give us peace.
Mighty God, mothering God, grant us your life, the life of the Father to the Son, the life of the Spirit of our risen Savior, life in you, now and forever. | Amen.
Gathered into one by the Holy Spirit, let us pray…
LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
INVITATION TO COMMUNION
Come and taste the joy of God!
Seated
All who seek to meet the Risen Christ in the bread and wine are invited to receive Holy Communion
Those who are worshiping online can join the pastors on Zoom for communion following the postlude. Link
Standing
The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace. | Amen
Let us pray. | Holy One, we thank you for the healing that springs forth abundantly from this table. Renew our strength to do justice, love kindness, and journey humbly with you. Amen.
SENDING
God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
BLESSING
The God who faithfully brings forth justice and breaks the oppressor’s rod ☩ bless, strengthen, and uphold you, today and always. | Amen.
SENDING
Go in peace. Follow the way of Jesus. | Thanks be to God.
POSTLUDE by Redeemer Jazz Trio
The Altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of Allen Tess by his wife, Mary, and their children.
LAST WEEK AT REDEEMER Attendance for February 12: In person:194, Livestream: 209, Facebook 50
NEXT WEEK AT REDEEMER First Sunday in Lent
COMMUNITY
Georgia Human Trafficking Advocacy Day at the Capitol to speak out against Child Sex Trafficking: Tuesday, February 21.
On Tuesday, February 21, please join Redeeming Grace, Street Grace and many others as we urge lawmakers to protect our children, reduce demand and restore the lives of victims. We need your voice! Register with Street Grace here or access https://www.classy.org/event/advocacy-day/e384514 and input promo code ADVOCACY.
We have a tradition of gathering at Redeemer at 8:00 a.m. and riding MARTA to the Gold Dome. A Press Conference at 9:00 a.m. at Central Presbyterian Church will start the morning. Please let Redeeming Grace know if you plan to join us at Redeemer at 8:00 a.m. on February 21. Contact amy.carpenter@comcast.net.
For the past 12 years, Redeemer’s response to Human Trafficking has been a focus on anti-child sex trafficking in Georgia through our small group Redeeming Grace and its involvement with Wellspring Living’s transformational care of child sex trafficking victims.
Lutheran Community Food Ministry Black History Month MEAL
February 23, 2023
In honor of Black History Month, Chef Michael is preparing a healthy version of modern African American cuisine.
We are hoping for a large turnout; if you would like to volunteer, please contact Stephanie Hart at stephanie.hart1987@icloud.com.
Christopher’s Haven Service Opportunity
Christopher's Haven is a non-profit that provides housing for children with cancer and their families while they are in treatment at the Proton Therapy Center just down the street from Redeemer. We are developing a partnership so that Redeemer families can support them, starting in your own kitchen! Find more information on how to provide a meal or a sweet treat on the form. CLICK HERE to see the Sign Up form.
VBS Needs You!
June 5-9 here at Redeemer our kids will gather for Changemakers Lab, an interactive Vacation Bible School where children learn that everyone can make a difference in the world! WE NEED YOUR HELP this year as we return to a more ‘normal’ version of this powerful faith formation program. Whether you can help now or during the actual event, whether you want to be on stage or behind the scenes or just want to help us shop for
supplies, everyone has something they can offer to make VBS a success! Please speak to Deacon Mary if you have questions, or fill out this form if you are ready to sign up. Ages 6th-grade to adult are eligible to volunteer.
YOUTH
Confirmation will not meet TODAY. Please join us next week for a bonus lesson with Pastor Jonathan.
High School Sunday School will have time to gather in the Youth lounge or go to Starbucks from 9:45 AM-10:45 AM.
Our Middle School Parents and High School Parent's Lenten Small Group begins Sunday, February 26.
On Sunday, January 8, we started using the chalices made by our 8th graders at 9 AM worship. Each 8th-grade Confirmation student had to answer the question, "What does Communion mean to you?" From 2/19-3/5, the chalice used was painted by Natalie Tanzola. This is Natalie's interpretation: "For me, communion is a time to remember Jesus and come together as a community. The different colors on my chalice represent the body and blood of Christ."
High School Youth Lock-In will happen Saturday, March 5-Sunday, March 6. We will gather at Redeemer for lots of games and fun. Friends are also welcome. Please let Hillary know if your youth(s) are interested in attending.
High School Youth Mission Trip Fundraiser | Beginning Sunday, March 5
12 High School Youth and two Adult Leaders will be heading to Arecibo, Puerto Rico, in June with the YouthWorks organization.
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Vacation Bible School Registration is Open! Join us June 5-9 here at Redeemer for Changemakers Lab, an interactive Vacation Bible School where children learn that everyone can make a difference in the world! VBS is 912:30 each day, including time for participants to eat lunch. We are excited to offer Before (8-9 am) and after (12:30-6 pm) care options again this year for families who need a full day of child care. Find more details and register at this link, or speak to Deacon Mary. Parents, we will need your help! We will work with you to find a role that fits your interests and availability. To register a youth (6th grade and up) or adult as a volunteer, please use this form.
Lords’ Supper Retreat
Ages PreK and up and their parents. Whether your child has been waiting for their first communion or already started receiving, we encourage them to grow their understanding of this ancient and holy practice. Not sure if this is the right year for your child to
participate? We're happy to help you decide! Saturday, March 18: 9:30-11:30 in person OR 1-3 pm on Zoom.
Sunday, March 20: Blessing in Worship at either service. You can contact Deacon Mary with questions, or go directly to the registration form at this link
MUSIC
Music and Arts Camp – “Carnival of the Animals” – June 12-16
Registration is now open. Rising kindergarteners through 6th graders will experience music, art, and drama all based on this year’s animal theme! The camp is from 9:00 am4:00 pm, with free before and after-care. Tuition for the week is $165 and includes all activities, snacks, and a T-shirt. Sibling discounts apply, and financial need-based scholarships are available. All are welcome, so tell your friends and neighbors. For more information, or to volunteer, please contact Sarah Hawbecker at 404-874-8664, ext. 206 or shawbecker@redeemer.org. Follow the camp and share our posts on Facebook atfacebook.com/RedeemerMusicCamp/
ADULT FAITH FORMATION
Animate Class - Led by Whitney Ludvigsen, Dana Norden, and David Barnes
Sundays through February 19, 2023
Learn from preeminent scholars and theologians about how our faith animates our actions in the world.
Mary’s Voice in John’s Gospel - Led by Edward Scherlacher
Sundays through April 2, 2023
Participants will gain a richer understanding of the fourth gospel - while restoring the voice of the one called “Blessed among women.”
Be Still and Journey – Led by Pat Cornwell
Sundays
A women's group that shares their lives of faith and discusses books and articles.
Pastor Jonathan Book Study
Tuesdays
Study of 'The Warmth of Other Suns' by Isabel Wilkerson. Based on interviews with more than a thousand people, and access to new data and official records, The Warmth of Other Suns tells the story of America's Great Migration through the lives of three unique individuals: Ida Mae Gladney, who in 1937 left sharecropping and prejudice in Mississippi for Chicago, where she achieved quiet bluecollar success and, in old age, voted for Barack Obama when he ran for an Illinois Senate seat; sharp and quick-tempered George Starling, who in 1945 fled Florida for Harlem, where he endangered his job fighting for civil rights, saw his family fall, and finally found peace in God; and Robert Foster, who left Louisiana in 1953 to pursue a medical career, the personal physician to Ray Charles as part of a glitteringly successful medical career. We would love to have you join and share your thoughts and insights!
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Ash Wednesday services
Noon and 7 pm | In-person and via Livestream
Begin Lent with an internal journey by walking the Labyrinth. The path will be available in Rudisill Hall from 10 am -8 pm on Ash
Wednesday, Feb 22.
Lent 2023
Congregational book study during Lent is, Entering the Passion of Jesus by Amy-Jill Levine.
This Lenten season we explore what the Passion of Christ means from the perspective of risks. Dr. Levine engages us to explore the Six Risks Jesus took to provide and secure our Salvation. And raises the question, are we willing to take similar risks to serve God fully? If you want to lead a weekly small group discussion, please contact Pastor Ron, rbonner@redeemer.org
Lenten Small Group Sign-Ups available in the Sims Atrium
New Member Class Beginning Feb 26th | 10-10:45 am
Take the next step in your faith by joining Redeemer's faith community. Through this 6week class, you will get to know the people, ministries, and mission of Lutheran Church of the Redeemer as we get to know you and help you find where you belong.
Calendar for February 19 – February 25, 2023
Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links
Sunday, February 19, 2023