Second Sunday in Lent – February 25, 2024
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 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.
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 and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Standing THANKSGIVING FOR BAPTISM
Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, the fountain of living water, the rock who gave us birth, our light and our salvation. | Amen.
Joined to Christ in the waters of baptism, we are clothed with God's mercy and forgiveness. Let us give thanks for the gift of baptism.
We give you thanks, O God, for in the beginning your Spirit moved over the waters and by your Word you created the world, calling forth life in which you took delight.
Through the waters of the flood you delivered Noah and his family.
Through the sea you led your people Israel from slavery into freedom.
At the river your Son was baptized by John and anointed with the Holy Spirit. By water and your Word you claim us as daughters and sons, making us heirs of your promise and servants of all.
We praise you for the gift of water that sustains life, and above all we praise you for the gift of new life in Jesus Christ.
Shower us with your Spirit, and renew our lives with your forgiveness, grace, and love.
To you be given honor and praise through Jesus Christ our Lord in the unity of the Holy Spirit, now and forever. | Amen.
As a reminder of the gift of baptism, the assembly may be sprinkled during the entrance hymn. As the congregation is invited forward for communion, individuals are encourage to dip the fingers in the water from the font and make the sign of the cross.
HYMN 796
How Firm a Foundation
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. | And also with you.
O God, by the passion of your blessed Son you made an instrument of shameful death to be for us the means of life. Grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ that we may gladly suffer shame and loss for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. | Amen.
Seated CHILDREN’S SERMON
THE READING
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
As with Noah, God makes an everlasting covenant with Abraham and Sarah. God promises this old couple that they will be the ancestors of nations, though they have no child together. God will miraculously bring forth new life from Sarah’s womb. The name changes emphasize the firmness of God’s promise.
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless. And I will make my covenant between me and you, and will make you exceedingly numerous.” Then Abram fell on his face; and God said to him, “As for me, this is my covenant with you: You shall be the ancestor of a multitude of nations. No longer shall your name be Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you the ancestor of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your offspring after you throughout their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you.”
God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. I will bless her, and moreover I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she shall give rise to nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.”
Word of God, word of life. | Thanks be to God.
Standing
THE HOLY GOSPEL
Mark 8:31-38
After Peter confesses his belief that Jesus is the Messiah, Jesus tells his disciples for the first time what is to come. Peter’s response indicates that he does not yet understand the way of the cross that Jesus will travel.
Before the reading: The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.
[Jesus] began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”
He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it. For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? Indeed, what can they give in return for their life? Those who are ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of them the Son of Man will also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ.
Seated SERMON
Standing
HYMN 802 Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus
Kneeling or seated PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Each portion of the prayers concludes: Hear us, O God. | Your mercy is great. At the conclusion of the prayers: Amen
Trusting in God’s promise to reconcile all things, let us pray for the church, the well-being of creation, and a world in need.
A brief silence.
We turn to you for meaning, holy God. Nurture in your children the gifts of the Spirit poured out in baptism and let the mind of Christ guide the church. Give wisdom and discernment to our bishops, pastors, deacons, teachers, and leaders. Hear us, O God.
Your mercy is great.
We turn to you for renewal. Save lives and ecosystems threatened by pollution and a changing climate, especially the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. Cleanse the earth’s waters and restore the soil, that generations to come may cherish your creation. Hear us, O God.
Your mercy is great.
We turn to you for justice. Uphold the worth and dignity of every person, especially any who experience hatred and rejection because of gender, gender identity, ability, age, sexual orientation, color, ethnicity, poverty, physical or mental health, or religion. Hear us, O God.
Your mercy is great.
We turn to you for healing. Send compassionate helpers to any who suffer because of war and violence, especially in Sudan, Israel and Palestine, and Ukraine. Shelter unhoused people, befriend those who are lonely, bring hope to any in despair, especially..
Hear us, O God.
Your mercy is great.
We turn to you for purpose. Remind us of your faithfulness to this congregation. Increase our trust in your guidance and keep us near the cross. Grant that our acts of service will express Christ’s sacrificial love. Hear us, O God.
Your mercy is great.
We turn to you for peace. We honor the saints who lived in service to others especially Elizabeth Fedde, deaconess, whom we commemorate today as well as…
Inspire us by their example until you gather us into your kingdom. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.
Accompany us on our journey, God of grace, and receive the prayers of our hearts, 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
Jesus, you are the bread of life and the host of this meal. Bless these gifts that we have gathered that all people may know your goodness. Feed us not only with this holy food but with hunger for justice and peace. We pray this in your name. | 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.
EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
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
Bread for the journey. A feast for hungry hearts. Come!
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. | Generous God, at this table we have tasted your immeasurable grace. As grains of wheat are gathered into one bread, now make us one loaf to feed the world; in the name of Jesus, the Bread of life. Amen.
BLESSING
Beloved, we are God’s own people, holy, washed, renewed. God bless you and keep you, shower you with mercy, fill you with courage, and ☩ give you peace.| Amen.
HYMN 768
Refrain:
Lead me, guide me along the way;
For if You lead me, I cannot stray; Lord, let me walk each day with Thee.
Lead me, O Lord, lead me.
Lead Me, Guide Me
1 I am weak, and I need Thy strength and power To help me over my weakest hour; Help me through the darkness Thy face to see, Lead me, O Lord, lead me. [Refrain]
2 Help me tread in the paths of righteousness;
Be my aid when Satan and sin oppress. I am putting all my trust in Thee, Lead me, O Lord, lead me. [Refrain]
3 I am lost, if you take your hand from me; I am blind, without Thy Light to see; Lord, just always let me Thy servant be, Lead me, O Lord, lead me. [Refrain]
Text and music © 1953 Doris Akers. All rights administered by Unichappell Music, Inc. International Copyright Secured. All Rights Reserved.onelicense.net #A725004
SENDING
Go in peace. Share your bread. | Thanks be to God.
POSTLUDE by Redeemer Jazz Trio
From sundaysandseasons.com. Copyright © 2021 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.
LAST WEEK AT REDEEMER Attendance for 02/18 In person: 235, Vimeo 151
NEXT WEEK AT REDEEMER Third Sunday in Lent
Lutheran Church of the Redeemer’s Statement of Welcome
“We serve a God of abundant grace and generosity. Our worship is centered on the invitation that Christ offers at the communion table: all are welcome in this place. That welcome flows through all we do and say. We open our arms to everyone who comes to share our love of God and all God’s people. We affirm and value the lives of everyone, including all who have been marginalized by ability, age, gender, gender identity, mental or physical health, poverty, race, sexual orientation, or any other circumstance. Let our message be clear: all are welcome to participate fully in the life of our congregation.”
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING | March 17, 2024
Meeting sessions to be held live following each Sunday worship service and also via Zoom at 10am
This meeting will serve as the Annual Meeting of the congregation. There will be three motions from the council to be voted on and approved:
Motion #1, Approval of the 2023 Annual Report
Motion #2, Ratification of Changes to ELCR Constitution
Motion #3, Approval of a Predevelopment Budget for Facilities Master Plan
Listening Sessions today and March 3 | Rudisill Hall/Zoom
If you are unable to attend feel free to contact jeffguthrie@bellsouth.net, or contact any other Council member.
Midtown Lutheran Preschool (MTLPS) is seeking a half-time Preschool Director. MTLPS is a faith-based preschool offering a half-day program for children ages 15 months through Pre-K. A
unique feature of our program is its bi-lingual education format (English-German). MTLPS is an important part of Lutheran Church of the Redeemer's faith formation and outreach ministries. If you are interested or know of someone who might be, please contact Pastor Larson.
Easter Drive
Please help us celebrate Easter with Redeemer Families and welcome our neighbors and friends by donating individually wrapped candy or small Easter items. You can participate in the Amazon list by scanning the code (items will be sent directly to the church) or bring them to the Welcome Desk by Wednesday, March 22, and put them in the bin.
Vacation Bible School Registration is Open!!
VBS Needs You!
June 3-7 our kids will gather for Camp Firelight, an interactive Vacation Bible School where children will go on a summer camp adventure with God, right here at Redeemer! WE NEED YOUR HELP to make this event possible. 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. Ages 6th-grade to adult are eligible to volunteer. Link: https://form.jotform.com/240315224987155
YOUTH
• High School Youth Retreat, March 15-17 @ Lutheranch. Come hang out with other High School Youth and enjoy this weekend of fellowship together. Actual RSVP due in Early March.
• Save the date-our Middle School Youth Lock-In will be taking place on Saturday, March 9Sunday, March 10. More details coming soon!
Our chalice today was made by one of our 8th grade Confirmation students, Charli Fletcher. Our wafer plate today was also made by one of our 8th grade Confirmation students, James Van Hoosear. Each 8th grade Confirmation student had to answer the question of “What does Communion mean to you?” This is Charli’s interpretation: “My chalice represents an oldfashioned medieval Gauntlet. Communion, to me, represents a tradition passed down through generations and generations that connects us with the old and will connect us with the new. I see it as something sacred and something that brings together a community, so I chose Gauntlet to represent my chalice.”
This is James’ interpretation: “I think communion is the best part after the sermon. Communion is a time for us to give thanks for everything that Jesus Christ has done for us. I think of it as a prayer to the Lord asking for forgiveness. It is a way for our sins to be lifted away to the heavens.”
CHILDREN AND FAMILY
Children’s Sunday School in February
Today we return in our usual classrooms, except for the Second Graders who are starting their Faith Stepping Stone in room 203.
Lord’s Supper Retreat
Saturday, March 16, 9:30 AM- 12 PM.
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! Sunday, March 18: Blessing in Worship at the 11:00 service. You can contact Deacon Mary with questions, or scan the code to find more information and to register.
Vacation Bible School Registration is Open!
June 3-7 our kids will gather for Camp Firelight, an interactive Vacation Bible School where children will go on a summer camp adventure with God, right here at Redeemer! VBS is 9 AM- 1 PM each day, including time for participants to eat lunch. We are excited to offer Before-care (8-9 am) and After-care (1-6 pm) options again this year for families who need a full day of child care. Parents and youth, we will need your help! We will work with you to find a role that fits your interests and availability. Link: https://form.jotform.com/240165495570156
ADULT FAITH FORMATION
Angels: Then & Now
Led by Ed Scherlacher | Sundays | 10 am | Room 121
Learn the history God’s messengers in the old testament, the intertestamental period, the life of Jesus and the church. Discover how they minister to us “now,” and will throughout eternity.
Be Still and Journey
Led by Pat Cornwell | Sundays | 10 am | Room 119
Studying Ephesians by NT Wright For Everyone Bible Study. In Ephesians, Paul can't contain his joy and amazement at the larger story of God's plan to save us in Jesus the Messiah. It is designed to help you understand Scripture in fresh ways under the guidance of one of the world's leading New Testament scholars. These eleven studies from Tom Wright will help us see the significance of our role in God's grand narrative, and encourage us to live more fully as people who are lavishly loved by God. Please join us as we intentionally choose to learn and grow in faith
“We Make the Road by Walking” by Brian McLaren
Study led by Pastor Jonathan | Sundays 10 am | Reception Room
Opportunity each week to look at a scripture reading and, using reflection, present an introduction/re-orientation to the Christian Faith.
Tuesday Morning Bible Study
Led by David Ott & Don Noland | Tuesdays | 7 AM | Reception Room and Zoom
A light breakfast is served beginning at 7 am. The study starts at 7:30 am and ends at 8:30 am.
Book Study with Pastor Jonathan
Tuesdays | 5 PM
Join Pr Jonathan as the class studies, 'Jesus and John Wayne' by Kristin Kobes Du Mez. Dr Du Mez's book is a sweeping, revisionist history of the last seventy-five years of white evangelicalism, revealing how evangelicals have worked to replace the Jesus of the Gospels with an idol of rugged masculinity and Christian nationalism. While reading is encouraged, it is not required! If you have any questions, please reach out to Pr Jonathan at jtrapp@redeemer.org.
Early Bird Bible Study led by David Ott
Wednesdays | 4 PM | Reception | Study on 1 Samuel
Pastor’s Class led by Pastor Mark
Wednesdays | 6 PM | Rudisill Hall & Zoom
Beginning Feb. 21 Baptism: A User’s Guide by Martin Marty
Thursday afternoon Bible Study
Thursdays | 3 – 4:00 PM | Reception Room/ Zoom
Dig deep into the Gospel of Matthew, chapter by chapter, as we explore theological and contextual themes. Sweet treats and coffee will be provided. Bibles will be available, or you can bring your own preferred Bible.
Redeeming Bloomers
"For those interested in planting and upkeeping gardens, please consider joining us the first Thursday morning of each month from 10-12 in the winter. If Thursday is not available to you but you are interested in helping us "play in the dirt", some of us are working together on another day that allows more people to participate when they cannot be present on Thursdays.
KEYSTONE
March 6th at 12 PM: Monthly Mid-Week Worship Service (Sanctuary)
March 13th at 3 PM: Monthly Keystone Meeting (Rudisill Hall)
March 18th at 1 PM: Lunch Bunch Fellowship Meal (Murphy’s in Decatur)
March 20th at 1 PM: Monthly Movie Matinee (Rudisill Hall)
COMMUNITY
Save the Date for Hunger Walk!
The Atlanta Community Food Bank’s Hunger Walk Run is a celebrated annual event and community energizer, bringing people together in solidarity with a collective goal to end hunger. On March 10, Team Redeemer will walk (or run!) to benefit our Lutheran Community Food Ministry, as well as the Atlanta Community Food Bank and Inspiritus.
Hunger Walk Run will be a hybrid event, which means it takes place everywhere: at the Home Depot Backyard next to Mercedes Benz Stadium, as well as on every sidewalk, track, and trail in your own neighborhood. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors to walk or run wherever you are most comfortable gathering. Festivities at the Home Depot Backyard kick off at noon with onsite registration and entertainment. The 5K Fun Walk and Run starts at 2 p.m. and the event ends at 4 p.m.
The Hunger Walk Run takes place rain or shine but please know that the Atlanta Community Food Bank closely monitors conditions that could impact safely holding an in-person event. If you prefer not to walk at home or at the Home Depot Backyard, consider walking in prayer for all who face hunger, poverty, and food insecurity.
Register today at http://engage.acfb.org/goto/TeamRedeemer2024. As an added incentive, the first $250 in donations to Team Redeemer will be matched 1:1. Last year we raised $2,845, a 65% increase over our 2022 results, which placed Redeemer in the top ten of the Lutheran Hunger Walk Run teams for 2023. Let’s do it again in 2024!
Thank you for your support, and please contact Lorraine Dorough, team captain, at ledorough@gmail.com for assistance in registering or for more information.
Advocate Against Child Trafficking: Join us at the Capitol on February 27. Our Redeemer group will gather at the church at 8:00 a.m. and ride MARTA to Central Presbyterian Church for a press conference at 9:00 a.m. followed by a group photo on the Capitol steps prior to visits to our senators and representatives regarding bills that will protect victims and our children. Register with Street Grace at https://www.classy.org/event/advocacy-day-2024/e529963
Midtown Lutheran Preschool Open Enrollment – Spread the Word!
We are excited to announce that our preschool is currently enrolling’s for the Fall semester and space is still available for the current Spring semester. If you know any families looking for a half-day preschool program that runs from 9AM to 1PM Monday through Friday, please encourage them to consider MTLPS Church Preschool. Visit our website www.mtlps.org for more information, including details about our curriculum, faculty, and enrollment process.
SAVE THE DATE
Bach Birthday Bash
Friday, March 15th at 7:30 pm is our annual concert celebrating the life and music of Johann Sebastian Bach. This year’s program will feature Alan Boda, violin; Nicolas Deuson, guitar; Sarah Hawbecker, organ and piano; Chase Petersen, organ; Mindy Tanzola, flute; the Carillon Ringers; and the Redeemer Choir, directed by David Hansen. Audience participation is a part of the concert, and the reception following the concert includes the singing of “Happy birthday” to Herr Bach. There won’t be another event like it in Atlanta this year, so invite a friend and join us!
Calendar for February 25 – February 24, 2023
Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links
Sunday, February 25, 2024
Event Time Location
Worship
J.O.Y. Choir
HS Faith Formation
Confirmation Lrg Group
Middle School Parents
Children’s Sunday School
Pr. Jonathan Class
Angel’s: Then & Now
Be Still & Journey
Confirmation Small Grps
Lenten Book Study
Monday, February 26
9:00 AM (Jazz) 11:00 AM
Organ & Choir
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
9:45 AM – 10:15 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:15 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
In-person/ Livestream
Room 211
Youth Lounge Fireside Library
Various Rooms
Conference Room Room 121 Room 119
Various Rooms Room 211
Carillon Ringers
Tuesday, February 27
Morning Bible Study
Pr. Jonathan Book Study
Wednesday, February 28
Early Birds Bible Study
Wednesday Night Dinner
Seraphim Choir
Redeemer Ringers
Worship
Redeemer Choir Rehearsal
Thursday, February 29
Thursday Bible Study
Tolkien Group
Friday, February 23
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Hinely Music Hall
Rudisill Hall/Zoom
Zoom
Zoom
Sims Atrium
Room 204
Room 202
Sanctuary/Livestream
Hinely Music Hall
Rudisill/Zoom
Zoom
THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER
731 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308
www.redeemer.org | 404.874.8664 | Emergency Line: 404.874.9759
The Rev. Mark H. Larson Senior Pastor, ext. 201
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan Trapp .......................................... Pastor for Faith Formation, ext. 233
The Rev. Jennifer Roberts ........................... Interim Pastor for Congregational Care, ext. 224
STAFF
Kofi Broadnax ........................................................................ Property Administrator, ext. 210
Seth Brown ................................................................... Facilities and Media Director, ext. 218
Brandon Davis ................................................... Director of Operations and Finance, ext. 232
Robin Durdin ............................................................ Office Administration Director, ext. 204
David Hansen ........................................................................... Adult Choral Director, ext. 236
Sarah Hawbecker .......................................... Organist & Children’s Music Director, ext. 206
Deacon Mary Houck .....................................Children & Family Ministries Director, ext. 227
Jennifer Isaacson ....................................................... Financial Information Director, ext. 237
Kisha Johnson .................................................................. Interim Preschool Director, ext. 252
Larry Lowe ........................................................................................................Security Officer
Hillary Nelson ............................................................ Youth Director, hnelson@redeemer.org
Chase Petersen ......................................................... Organ Scholar, cpetersen@redeemer.org
Stacey Williams Head of Security