First Sunday in Lent – February 26, 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.
This bulletin contains content protected by copyright and is provided only for you to participate in worship. Please delete or destroy any physical or digital copy of the material following the service.
WELCOME
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Standing
HYMN 325
I Want Jesus to Walk with Me
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.
Kneeling or seated
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. Lord God, our strength, the struggle between good and evil rages within and around us, and the devil and all the forces that defy you tempt us with empty promises. Keep us steadfast in your word, and when we fall, raise us again and restore us through your Son, 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 4:1-11
Jesus experiences anew the temptations that Israel faced in the wilderness. As the Son of God, he endures the testing of the evil one.
The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.
Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written,
‘One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ”
Then the devil took him to the holy city and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written,
‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.’ ”
Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’ ”
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor; and he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! for it is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’ ”
Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him.
The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ.
Standing
HYMN 785
When Peace Like a River
Kneeling or seated
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Sustained by God’s abundant mercy, let us pray for the church, the world, and all of creation.
A brief silence.
You alone are God. Sustain your church in times of wilderness. Give vision and wisdom to bishops, their staff, and all entrusted with the ministry of administration (especially). Counsel all who faithfully lead your people into the future.
Merciful God, | receive our prayer.
You create verdant gardens and expansive deserts. Tend to the needs of every living creature. Bless those who work in fields and orchards (local sources of food and food distributors may be named), that the world is nourished by the fruits of their labor.
Merciful God, | receive our prayer.
You know our temptations. Sustain those who govern and legislate. Instill in them a sense of your justice and righteousness, that equity and peace would pervade all the regions and nations of the world.
Merciful God, | receive our prayer.
You are a hiding place for all in distress. Draw near to exiles, and accompany all refugees and immigrants, especially children who travel alone. In times of trouble, trauma, or illness, surround your people with your steadfast love especially:
Merciful God, | receive our prayer.
You offer abundance to all. Bless the ministries of hospitality in this place. Care for those who tend to the needs of others, especially worship greeters, coffee hour hosts, and nursery attendants (other ministries of care and hospitality may be named).
Merciful God, | receive our prayer.
Here other intercessions may be offered.
You alone are God. We praise you for the faithful departed in every age. Unite our prayers with theirs, until our wilderness journey is complete, and we rest in you.
Merciful God, | receive our prayer.
We lift our prayers to you, O God, trusting in your steadfast love and your promise to renew your whole creation; through Jesus Christ our Savior.
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 MISSION MOMENT
GATHERING OF GIFTS
MUSIC by Redeemer Jazz Trio
Standing
OFFERING PRAYER
God of good gifts, receive these and all our offerings as we present them in faithful service for the sake of your gospel. Prepare our hearts to receive you in this meal as you pour out your very presence through Christ Jesus, the wellspring of eternal life. | 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, Creator of our wilderness world, O God, Savior of the lost, O God, Comforter of the sick and suffering, we give you thanks for your everlasting might; we glorify you for your covenant of mercy.
For forty days you cleansed the earth with the waters of the flood. For forty days you illumined Moses with the words of your law. For forty years you fed your people with manna from heaven.
You became truly human in Jesus our brother. For forty days, with fasting and prayer, he renounced the power of the devil.
On the night before he died he 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.
Transform us, O God, with your lively Spirit. Make this food into manna for our journey, the body and blood of your Son.
Teach us your words of wisdom and justice. Renew the whole earth with baptismal grace. At the last, lead all your pilgrim people through our wilderness to your Easter garden.
To you, O God, Creator, Savior, Comforter, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be our worship and praise, adoration and thanksgiving, 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 receive Jesus, our strength in the wilderness. 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. | Embodied God, at your table, we have tasted the goodness of Jesus. With the eyes of our hearts open to your promise, empower us to hear the needs of our neighbors and touch the world with your love. Amen.
SENDING
God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
BLESSING
God, the giver of love, ☩ Christ, the resurrection and the life, and the Holy Spirit of rebirth bless you in this Lenten journey. | Amen.
SENDING
Go in peace. Serve in love. | Thanks be to God.
POSTLUDE by Redeemer Jazz Trio
LAST WEEK AT REDEEMER Attendance for February 19: In person:179, Livestream: 203, Facebook 30
NEXT WEEK AT REDEEMER Second Sunday in Lent
COMMUNITY
New Member Class Beginning Feb 26th | 10-10:45 am | Reception room
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.
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
9:45 AM-10:15 AM | Fireside Room
High School Sunday School
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM | Youth Lounge
Youth Parents Lenten Small Group
10:00 AM-10:45 AM | Room 103
8th Grade Chalice Usage
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, "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 | Saturday, March 5-Sunday, March 6.
For those who can, we will attend the Atlanta United game together before and head for the lock-in afterward. Those who can't come to the game can meet us after for the lock-in portion. Friends are also welcome. Please let Hillary know if your youth(s) are interested in attending.
High School Youth Mission Trip Fundraiser
Save the date: our High School Summer 2023 Mission Trip Fundraiser begins on Sunday, March 5. Twelve of our High School Youth and two Adult Leaders will head 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 19: Blessing in Worship at either service. You can contact Deacon Mary with questions, or go directly to the registration form at this link
MUSIC
Sarah Hawbecker will present an organ recital on Sunday, March 5 at 3:15 pm at the Cathedral of St. Philip, 2744 Peachtree Road. She will perform organ works by Pierre Du Mage, Johannes Brahms, Mary Beth Bennett, and J. S. Bach. The public is cordially invited to this free 35-minute concert which precedes Evensong at 4:00.
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
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!
Sundays in March | 10 am | Rudisill Hall
Come hear about the Bishop’s pilgrimage to Israel and Palestine attended by fourteen Redeemer members. We will share our pictures and experiences of the places we visited and the people we met. We will also highlight opportunities for you to support Palestinian Christians living and worshiping in the Holy Land. A highlight will be a movie discussion of The Present, an Oscar nominated short film produced by a graduate of the Dar al-Kalima University of Arts and Culture.
March 12: From Tiberias to Bethlehem
March 19: From Jerusalem to Petra
March 26: Movie Screening and Discussion: The Present
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
Wednesday night Pastor’s Class
Join Pr. Mark for a Lenten Book Study on Entering the Passion of Jesus
6 PM | Rudisill Hall & Zoom
MIDWEEK LENTEN WORSHIP
Places of the Passion
Each Wednesday, 7 PM
In-person and Online
Each Wednesday evening in Lent, join us for Places of the Passion. This special midweek worship series will follow in the footsteps of our Savior, contemplating the places where Jesus stood on his path to salvation. Pastor Larson will bring the message each week, including his personal reflections on meaning, history and spiritual inspiration associated with each location he visited on his recent trip to the Holy Land.
March 1: The City of Jerusalem
March 8: The Mount of Olives
March 15: Gethsemane
March 22: The Courtyard
March 29: Pilate’s Judgment Hall
Q&A with Amy-Jill Levine
Sunday, March 5 | Rudisill Hall & Zoom
Calendar for February 26 – March 4, 2023
Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links