Worship Service
Frank Ramirez
Everett (Pa.) Church of the Brethren

CALL TO WORSHIP

Lord, we come to your house, the only true sanctuary in a world that is always troubled. We come, not because this conflict is any more special in your eyes – certainly your care and tears are given for all the conflicts around the world that we have not even noticed – no, we come because we can no longer ignore our need for your saving grace, your wisdom, and your action. Descend into our midst, O Spirit of God, as we gather together to worship you this day, as we ought to have done every day. Amen.

UNISON PRAYER

Lord, this day we lift up your people around the world. As war breaks out we call to mind all of your children who may be in harm's way. We know, as the child's song tells us, that red and yellow, black and white, all are precious in your sight. Guard and guide all your children through this dark hour. May your will be done with us and despite us. Safeguard those who are dear to our hearts, as well as those whom we have never called to mind, those we do not know. Bless the leaders of the world. Bless and protect the powerless who share this globe with us. Lead your people through war, past war, and beyond to the true peace which you have instituted through the cross and the resurrection. We need our Easter early this season. We need you more than ever. God of peace, God of glory, God of love, we present to you today our cares and fears, and seek most of all to worship you and magnify your holy name, even before we raise our earnest requests to your sight. Pour the peace that passes understanding into our hearts with such generosity that it overflows to flood the entire world. Lord, we seek you now as we ought to have done in all times. We praise your name. We acknowledge you as the only Lord. Amen.

HYMN OF CONFESSION

"When I Survey The Wondrous Cross"

Hymnal 259

A CALL FOR PRAYER REQUESTS

(Please respond to each request with these words: "Lord, hear our prayer.")

SCRIPTURE READING

Selections from John 14

Hymnal 844

MEDITATION

"Back to the Cross"

BENEDICTION HYMN

"Abide with me"

Hymnal 653

BENEDICTION

Micah 4:1-4

Hymnal 833

Hymns are from Hymnal: A Worship Book, Brethren Press.

Candlelight Prayer Service

Prayer service created by Paul Roth, pastor of the Linville Creek Church of the Brethren, Broadway, Va., for a candlelight prayer service on Sept. 12, 2001. Hymn numbers refer to Hymnal: A Worship Book and the Hymnal Supplement Series (Brethren Press.)