Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost – October 6, 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 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.
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 HYMN 656
Blest Be the Tie that Binds
CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, who forgives all our sin, whose mercy endures forever. | Amen.
Let us confess our sin and come to God for healing.
Kneeling or seated
Gracious God, have mercy on us. We confess that we have honored you with our lips, but have harmed our neighbors with our tongues. The cravings at war within us cause conflicts and disputes. In our desire to be first we make distinctions among ourselves. We place the needs of the poor and the suffering last. In your great mercy, forgive us our sins. Draw near to us with grace in time of need, and turn us to follow in the way of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
God promises to forgive our iniquity and to remember our sin no more. By grace you have been saved. In the name of ☩ Jesus Christ, the source of eternal healing, your sins are forgiven. | Amen.
Standing PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. | And also with you.
Sovereign God, you have created us to live in loving community with one another. Form us for life that is faithful and steadfast, and teach us to trust like little children, that we may reflect the image of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. | Amen
Please use the Prayer Request link on the webpage to submit your requests.
Seated CHILDREN’S SERMON
Standing THE HOLY GOSPEL
Mark 10:2-16
Jesus announced and enacted in history the new reality of God’s surprising activity. These two stories demonstrate this new reality: Women and children are accepted and valued, not dismissed as inferior to adult men.
Before the reading: The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.
Some Pharisees came, and to test [Jesus] they asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” He answered them, “What did Moses command you?” They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her.” But Jesus said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart he wrote this commandment for you. But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
Then in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”
People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the little
children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.
After the reading: The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ.
Seated SERMON
Standing HYMN
When Love is Found
Kneeling or seated PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Each portion of the prayers concludes: God of grace, | hear our prayer. At the conclusion of the prayers: Amen Challenged by God’s Word in Christ, let us pray for the church, the world, and the whole creation.
God of our ancestors, we give thanks for the church in all times. May we listen for the prophets of this age who bear messages that stir the church toward renewal and justice. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Creator of every creature on earth, direct our lives toward the renewal and sustaining of cattle, birds of the air, animals of the field, and those who share our homes. Reveal the ways we can work alongside creation for the health and well-being of all. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Sovereign God, we give thanks that you are mindful and benevolent to even us, mere mortals. Accompany us when hardness of heart gets in the way of justice between people and nations. Endow leaders with minds for justice and hearts for compassion. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Restoring Lord, grant healing and wholeness to those who are sick and suffering especially…
Work through medical professionals to diagnose, ease pain, and give life to all who seek their wisdom and experience. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Unifying God, humans were created for relationship with the earth, its creatures, and one another. Forgive us when division threatens companionship, mutual support, and unity among us. May your love inspire us to build supportive communities of faith where all are cherished. God of grace, hear our prayer.
God of resurrection, you prepare a place in the kingdom through Christ’s death and resurrection. We give thanks for the saints who have taken their place at your heavenly banquet (especially William Tyndale, translator and martyr, whom we commemorate today). God of grace, hear our prayer.
Into your hands, O God, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in the saving grace you freely give, both now and forever. 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
OFFERING PRAYER
Blessed are you, O God, source of every gift of your creation. By these gifts and with our lives, help us to serve one another and all in need, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. | 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
Honor and glory be to you, Lord God of all the ages; we give you thanks for the joy of your creation, and praise for your liberating love.
Searching and yearning God, you enter the wilderness and sweep the dark corners of our world because you hate nothing that you have made and long to draw us back to your heart. In Christ Jesus, you came into the world to save sinners, to welcome them, and to eat with them. You spread a table in our sight and invite us to join you in glory.
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.
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.
Now send down your Holy Spirit, that your people who have strayed like lost sheep may dwell in the paths of righteousness and that these gifts of bread and wine may be for us the body and blood of your Son Jesus Christ;
Find those who are lost; reach any who have strayed; pursue all who seem determined to wander further and further from your fold.
Heal your earth; where the fruitful land is waste and void, where the mountains are quaking, and the birds of the air have fled, bring hope, transformation, and deliverance.
Redeem your creation in the power of your Spirit, and draw all thing through the free gift of your Son into the glory of your presence, 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
Jesus welcomes you to this table. Come, here is your 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 God, you have welcomed us to this meal and fed us with dignity at your table. Send us now to welcome others and to be at peace with one another, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
SENDING
God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
BLESSING
God all mighty, God most merciful ☩ bless you, keep you, and give you peace. | Amen.
HYMN 840
Now Thank We All Our God
SENDING
Go in peace. Follow Jesus. | 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 Sept. 29: In person: 236, online 166
NEXT WEEK AT REDEEMER Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost
Created to Be Generous
As part of our annual Stewardship Drive, during the month of October, we will once again be gathering in small groups at church, in people’s homes, and in local gathering spots for fellowship, relationship building, prayer, and dreaming about the future of our congregation. Sign-ups for gatherings are beginning in the Sims Atrium today, and more times and places will be added soon.
Monster Mash Candy Drive
We are gearing up for Halloween fun again this year! You can help us provide this safe and fun
Halloween event for children and their families by donating candy and party favors from now to October 23rd. Please choose only from the Amazon list at this link, which will be shipped directly to the church. See Deacon Mary with questions.
Rejoicing Spirits Resumes October 20
It’s time to rejoice again!! This special worship service is designed to be accessible to people of all abilities- yes, that means you! We are all beloved children of God with strengths and weaknesses. People with disabilities and their caregivers need the support of their faith community. We all need to be reminded that whatever our abilities, we are enough. Come to be a friend and make some amazing new friends!
Meet in Rudisill Hall from 10:15 - 10:45 (before or after attending your usual service!)
CHILDREN AND FAMILY
Monster Mash and Pipe Screams
Mark your calendar for Friday, October 25 from 5:45-8 pm for some Halloween fun! We will start with carnival games outside (weather permitting), dinner in Sims Atrium (pizza), and then head to the sanctuary for the Pipe Screams concert. After the concert, we will go back outside for music, bubbles, and of course, CANDY! Costumes are encouraged for all ages but not required. Dinner is free, though donations are appreciated. RSVP is not required. Bring a friend!
ADULT FAITH FORMATION
“The Difficult Words of Jesus” – Meanings and Contexts
Led by Ed Scherlacher with Don Noland | Sundays 10 AM | Room 121
Inspired by Amy-Jill Levine’s book “The Difficult Words of Jesus,” this class will review sayings of Jesus that have been misinterpreted and used to marginalize “others” in history.
“From Jesus to Christ: The First Christians”
Sundays 10 am | Conference Room | Through October 13
Come join us to watch and discuss a multi-part PBS documentary on the early church. Shaped by theologians and historians this series is an intellectual and visual guide to the new and controversial historical evidence which challenges familiar assumptions about the life of Jesus and the epic rise of Christianity.
Be Still and Journey, Open to anyone interested
Led by Pat Cornwell | Sundays 10 AM | Room 119
“Shaped by the Word, The Power of Scripture in Spiritual Formation” by M. Robert Mulholland, Jr. For those who hunger for a deeper relationship with God and often struggle with barriers that keep us from being able to meditate and listen to God
Faith and Civic Life Social Statement Study – through November 3
Led by Don Noland | Sunday | 10 am | Room 211
Next summer, the ELCA will vote on a new social statement, "Faith and Civic Life." You are invited to join Don Noland for a multi-week study of this statement and explore how it builds upon previous social statements. This is also an opportunity to submit feedback to the ELCA that may be considered for the final draft to be voted on next summer by the Churchwide Assembly. Join us to learn, discuss, and contribute to this important process!
Tuesday Morning Bible Study
Led by David Ott & Don Noland | Tuesdays | 7 AM | Reception Room and Zoom
Currently studying 1st & 2nd Samuel Everyone is welcome either 1/ in person in the Reception Room with a full breakfast serving from 7 am, or 2/ via ZOOM link found on the Redeemer website each Tuesday. Our study and discussion is from 7:30 - 8:30 am. Please join us any Tuesday morning!
Book Study with Pastor Jonathan Tuesdays | 5 PM
Join Pr Jonathan on Zoom as the group discusses 'The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory' by Tim Alberta. Reading is always encouraged but not required, your presence is enough!
Early Bird Bible Study led by David Ott Wednesdays | 4 PM | Reception room | Study on 1 and 2 Chronicles
Pastor’s Class led by Pastor Mark Wednesdays | 6 PM | In-person and online
“Singing the Church’s History”
Every Sunday morning, we sing words that have a history. Yet many of our hymns are so familiar that we rarely notice where the words come from. As we sing together, we are singing church history, and, as a singing church, we have a history. This class will explore that story. Through singing and examining the words of our hymns, we will learn church history, right down to today, while enriching our hymn singing with glimpses into the lives and contexts of those who wrote them. Everyone is welcome, but bring your singing voice!
Sunday, October 6th | 9:45 am | Rev. Ana L. Lugo, ELCA Regional Gift Planner for the Southeastern Synod, will be in the Reception room to lead a special session on thoughtful giving, a presentation on the opportunities each of us have to create life giving plans to ensure that successful and lasting legacies are passed on to loved ones and the ministries we care about. As a resource for our church, Pr. Ana will include an overview of how to make informed decisions, and to share how each of us can plan for a meaningful gift for the current and future ministry of our church. Pr. Ana’s presentation will offer helpful information, tax-wise giving tips, and resources for responsible planning. We encourage you to join us.
A National Coming Out Day Worship in Atlanta
Sunday, October 6, 2024 | 5:00 PM | 7 Stages Theatre, 1105 Euclid Ave. The Collective is excited to partner with Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Midtown Atlanta to host a joint “National Coming Out Day” service of worship and storytelling. Come enjoy special musical performances from queer artists and hear powerful testimonies from queer Christians about the ways that coming out has allowed them to embrace Christ’s unconditional love for them.
Blessing of the Animals | October 6 | 2 PM
It's the Feast of St Francis! All creatures, great and small, are invited to join Pr Jonathan on the Redeemer Green for a short service and a blessing of your animals! If you have any questions, please contact Pr Jonathan at jtrapp@redeemer.org
Grief Summit led by David Kessler
October 8 | 7 PM | Releasing the Pain of Grief and Finding Hope & Meaning October 9 | 9 AM | Your Loss Matters
Cathedral of Christ the King | For more information & to register visit, cathedralctk.com/grief
Mark Your Calendar!
2nd Annual Block Party | Oktoberfest
Enjoy live Polka music, traditional foods, beer, dancing, and children’s games on Saturday, October 19th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at 4th & Peachtree Street
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Scan the QR code to signup!
Contact Don Noland, dfnoland@gmail.com or Don Cornwall
“PipeScreams” Concert - Friday, October 25 at 7:00 pm. All ages are invited to this free familyfriendly 30-minute concert of spooky music performed by organist Sarah Hawbecker. Costumes are encouraged! You can attend as part of Redeemer’s “Monster Mash” event or independently. The program will include the Overture from “Phantom of the Opera,” movie tunes, and classical favorites. Invite a friend to this howling good time!
WOMEN’S RETREAT REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
All ladies are invited to join us at Lutheranch from Nov. 15-17 for a retreat focused on flourishing faith! The cost is $329 (single room) or $240 (double room) and partial scholarships are available. Check out the Redeemer Newsletter to register.
Calendar for October 6 – October 12, 2024
Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links
Sunday, October 6, 2024
Event Time Location
Worship
J.O.Y. choir
HS Faith Formation
Confirmation (6th & 7th)
Confirmation (8th)
Rev Ana Lugo Presentation
Children’s Sunday School
Pr. Jonathan Class
Difficult Words of Jesus
9:00 AM (Jazz) 11:00 AM Organ & Choir
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
9:45 AM – 10:15 AM
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
In-person/ On-Line
Room 211
Youth Lounge
Rudisill Hall
2nd floor Office
Reception Room
Various Rooms
Conference Room
Room 121
Be Still & Journey
Faith & Civic Life
HS and Beyond Parents
Blessing of the Animals
Monday, October 7
Carillon Ringers
Tuesday, October 8
Morning Bible Study
Pr. Jonathan Book Study
Wednesday, October 9
Early Birds Bible Study
Wednesday Night Dinner
Seraphim Choir Pastors Class
Redeemer Ringers Worship
Thursday, October 10
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Room 119
Room 211 Room 103 4th Street Lot
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Hinely Music Hall
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
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Rudisill Hall/Zoom Zoom
Reception/Zoom Sims Atrium Room 204
Rudisill Hall/Zoom Room 202 Sanctuary
Tolkien Group 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom
Friday, October 11
Saturday, October 12
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
STAFF
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
Nate Humpherys Youth Director, ext. 230
Larry Lowe Security Officer
Stacey Williams Head of Security