Call to Worship (Adapted from UCC Worship Ways)
One: We are called here for a purpose: We gather to worship, for the sake of knowing and drawing close toward God.
All: We are not here by chance, but because we are drawn to the source of all goodness.
One: We are chosen and gathered as special stones by the builder, but together as the church our lives are being built up into a spiritual sanctuary where the justice and mercy and peace of the Risen Christ may dwell.
All: We are not here by chance, but because God is doing a new thing through us.
One: Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
All: Jesus, we are the sheep of your pasture, we call out for your protection and guidance. You have chosen us and we have chosen you. We are not here by chance. Amen.
Prayer of Renewal
O God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow humbly where he leads. But grant that we are even more than sheep, meek and mild in this world. Help us to become as zealous as the lioness to protect our brothers and sisters. Give us the vision of the Eagle that can soar above and see beyond our own pasture. And build us up to have the strength of the ox to bear the burdens of our world, in your Holy Name.
Scripture Acts 2: 42-47
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44 All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45 they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.