AN ORDER OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP
August 19, 2018 | 13th Sunday after Pentecost
First United Methodist Church
601 North Cedar, Abilene, Kansas 67410
785-263-2623 — http://www.abilenefirstumc.org
WELCOME TO THIS WORSHIP SERVICE
If you’re willing to fill one out, attendance inserts are available from the ushers.
Please note that bold type indicates congregational participation. An asterisk (*) indicates that you are invited to stand as you are able.
“H” stands for The United Methodist Hymnal, “F” stands for The Faith We Sing, and “W” stands for Worship and Song.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO REMAIN SEATED:
If, for any reason (health, comfort, personal preference, etc.), you need to or would prefer to remain seated during the hymns please do so. Don’t give into peer pressure. You be you!
TO THOSE WITH SMALL CHILDREN
- Relax! God put the wiggle in children; don’t feel you have to suppress those wiggles in God’s house.
- Consider sitting toward the front where it is easier for your little ones to engage.
- Quietly explain the parts of the service and actions of the pastors, musicians, and leaders.
- Sing the hymns, pray and voice the responses. Children learn by mimicking you.
- If you have to leave the sanctuary with your child, feel free to do so, but please come back. As Jesus said, “Let the children come to me.”
TO THE CONGREGATION
- Remember that the presence of children is a gift of hope for the future.
- Remember that the way we welcome children in worship directly affects the way they think about the church, Christianity, and even God.
- Let children know that they are at home in God’s house.
- A smile of encouragement is always welcome to parents with small, active children.
FEEL FREE TO REMAIN SEATED
If, for any reason (health, comfort, personal preference, etc.), you need to or would prefer to remain seated during the hymns please do so. Don’t give into peer pressure. You be you!
Music for Gathering
Greeting One Another
RE-GATHERING* — Be Thou My Vision — H-451
Announcements
Prelude and Lighting of Candles
CALL TO WORSHIP — Psalm 111 (CEB)
1 Praise the LORD! I thank the LORD with all my heart
in the company of those who do right,
in the congregation.2 The works of the LORD are magnificent;
they are treasured by all who desire them.
3 God’s deeds are majestic and glorious.
God’s righteousness stands forever.
4 God is famous for his wondrous works.
The LORD is full of mercy and compassion.
5 God gives food to those who honor him.
God remembers his covenant forever.
6 God proclaimed his powerful deeds to his people
and gave them what had belonged to other nations.
7 God’s handiwork is honesty and justice;
all God’s rules are trustworthy—
8 they are established always and forever:
they are fulfilled with truth and right doing.
9 God sent redemption for his people;
God commanded that his covenant last forever.Holy and awesome is God’s name!
10 Fear of the LORD is where wisdom begins;
sure knowledge is for all who keep God’s laws.God’s praise lasts forever!
Opening Prayer
Scripture Reading — 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 (CEB)
10 Then David lay down with his ancestors and was buried in David’s City. 11 He ruled over Israel forty years—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.
12 Solomon sat on the throne of his father David, and his royal power was well established. . . .
3 Now Solomon loved to walk in the laws of his father David, with the exception that he also sacrificed and burned incense at the shrines.
4 The king went to the great shrine at Gibeon in order to sacrifice there. He used to offer a thousand entirely burned offerings on that altar. 5 The LORD appeared to Solomon at Gibeon in a dream at night. God said, “Ask whatever you wish, and I’ll give it to you.”
6 Solomon responded, “You showed so much kindness to your servant my father David when he walked before you in truth, righteousness, and with a heart true to you. You’ve kept this great loyalty and kindness for him and have now given him a son to sit on his throne. 7 And now, LORD my God, you have made me, your servant, king in my father David’s place. But I’m young and inexperienced. I know next to nothing. 8 But I’m here, your servant, in the middle of the people you have chosen, a large population that can’t be numbered or counted due to its vast size. 9 Please give your servant a discerning mind in order to govern your people and to distinguish good from evil, because no one is able to govern this important people of yours without your help.”
10 It pleased the LORD that Solomon had made this request. 11 God said to him, “Because you have asked for this instead of requesting long life, wealth, or victory over your enemies—asking for discernment so as to acquire good judgment—12 I will now do just what you said. Look, I hereby give you a wise and understanding mind. There has been no one like you before now, nor will there be anyone like you afterward. 13 I now also give you what you didn’t ask for: wealth and fame. There won’t be a king like you as long as you live. 14 And if you walk in my ways and obey my laws and commands, just as your father David did, then I will give you a very long life.”
HYMN* — Praise the Source of Faith and Learning — F-2004
Blessing of the Backpacks
Blessings of School Personnel
Special Music — Eternal Father, Strong to Save
Scripture Reading — Ephesians 5:15-20 (NRSV)
15 Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, 16 making the most of the time, because the days are evil. 17 So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, 20 giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sermon
AFFIRMATION OF FAITH — On Screen
RESPONSE — Glory Be to the Father — H-70
Presentation of Bibles
HYMN* — Thy Word Is a Lamp — H-601
Prayer of Confession
(A time of silent prayers of confession)
Words of Assurance
Presentation of our Tithes and Offerings
RESPONSE* — Give Thanks — F-2036
Prayer of Thanksgiving*
THE 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. Amen.
HYMN* — Take Time to Be Holy — H-395
Dismissal
Blessing and Postlude*
PRAYER CONCERNS
Please note: prayer concerns will be listed in a bulletin for four (4) weeks unless the church office is notified otherwise.
FIRST UMC MEMBERS AND FRIENDS: Larry Schwartz, Michael Dobbs, Bob Murnahan, Rose Rogers, Betty Barnes, and Paul Hettenbach.
COMMUNITY PRAYER CONCERNS: Ron Shivers, Theresa Clemence (wife of Bob Clemence), and Kim Goodman and those grieving the loss of Ocie Neuschwander (John Collins’ grandma) and Bailey Jens Hoyer (nephew of Cindy Rempe).
THOSE WORSHIPING FROM HOME: Ruth Alt, Velma Becker, Joe Clemence, Steve Crump, Daisy Dester, Ruth Dieter, Wendell Gugler, Walt Hartman, Neva Heck, Helen Kappel, Pam Paul, Marla Rutz, Donna Smith, Martha Zutavern, Ray Power, Phyllis Newell, and Ken Brown.
THOSE SERVING IN THE ARMED FORCES: Greg Austin, Tim Barns, Kayla Berven, Billy Brockman, Matthew Brinker, Ross Covington, Jessica and James Green, Gavin Hanna, Cameron Hoskins, David Hoskins, Ryan Kriesch, Samuel Miller, Arthur Sprouse, and James L. Wise, Jr.
DISTRICT PRAYER CALENDAR: Today we pray for the Mankato Harmony United Methodist Church and their Pastor: Gerald Sharp, Assoc. Pastor: Rodney Rose.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
YOUTH SCAVENGER HUNT
On Wednesday, August 29th, the youth group will have a scavenger hunt in Eisenhower Park from 6:00-7:30 p.m.
THANK YOU – JERRY TAYLOR
We would like to give a “special” thank you to Jerry Taylor for his faithful (and humble) service as 8:15 head usher. He has helped and served the congregation for many years, but has decided that it is time to retire from this role and will be missed. Please be sure to take a moment and thank Jerry for his many years of dedication.
MUSIC MINISTRY/WORSHIP VOLUNTEERS SIGN-UP DAYS
Sunday, August 26th and Sunday, September 2nd will be our Music Ministry and Worship Volunteers sign-up days. At this time, anyone interested in participating in our Music Ministry may sign up for the year ahead. This includes, Chancel Choir, Bell Choirs, vocal or instrumental ensembles for special music and all accompanists (piano, guitar, drums, trumpet, flute, etc.) We also need worship assistants to help keep our worship services running smoothly. Participation opportunities include operating the sound system, the visual slide system, serving communion, and worship liturgist. Clark will have a table in the Narthex both Sundays where you will be able to sign up and ask questions. We look forward to seeing you there!
POWER & LIGHT AND YOUTH GROUP
Power & Light and Youth Group will both begin meeting again on Wednesday, September 5, 2018!
Power & Light: Meets from 3:30-5:00 p.m. in Peatling, for ages Kindergarten through 5th grade. Children may take the bus to the 5th & Cedar stop and Wendy R. will meet the children and walk them to the church.
Youth Group: Meets from 6:00-7:00 p.m. in the Youth Room, for ages 6th grade through 12th grade (all middle school and high school).
CHILDREN & YOUTH VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Adult volunteers are needed to help with Sunday School, Power & Light, and Youth Group. If you are looking for a fun and entertaining hour or two, we have the spot for you! No experience is necessary, just an open heart and a fun attitude! We are hoping to get a team of teachers to have a rotating monthly teaching commitment. Please contact Wendy Robinson with questions.
FALL WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
Marilyn Coleman and Toni Schwarting will be leading a Fall Women’s Bible Study titled: “David – Seeking a Heart Like His”
The two groups will meet Sundays, beginning September 9th; from 4:00-6:00 p.m. and Tuesdays, beginning September, 11th; from 2:00-4:00 p.m. A sign-up sheet for both groups is posted on the kiosk in the Narthex.
WE’RE ON THE RADIO AND STREAMING ONLINE: If you can’t make it to church, but would like to listen to one of our services live, simply tune into KABI 1560 AM AT 10:30 a.m. If you have a computer but not an AM radio, you can stream the KABI broadcast live at http://www.kabithegeneral.com. To supplement this we’ve also added video (with audio) streaming at http://www.pscp.tv/AFUMC/follow.
INTERESTED IN MEMBERSHIP?: Are you interested in joining the Abilene First United Methodist Church as a member and making a formal commitment to God, the church, and yourself? If so, please communicate with one of the pastors in person or using the pastoral contact information found in the bulletin.
NURSERY: A nursery is provided for children during each service. It is located in Room 205 near the south entrance to the church. If you need assistance locating the nursery, our ushers and greeters will be happy to direct you.
EMAIL UPDATES: Jenny and John use a service called TinyLetter to send out blog posts by email every day or so. This way you can keep up with the blog simply by checking your email inbox. You can also reply with an email of your own and let us know what you think. You can sign up at tinyletter.com/jcollins11
CHURCH CALENDAR
SUNDAY, AUGUST 19
8:15 a.m. Worship Service – Sanctuary
9:20 a.m. Small Groups – Classrooms
10:30 a.m. Worship Service – Sanctuary
7:00 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous – 203
MONDAY, AUGUST 20
5:15 p.m. Memorials Committee – 200
6:30 p.m. Board of Trustees – 200
7:00 p.m. Boy Scouts – Peatling
TUESDAY, AUGUST 21
10:00 a.m. Parkinson’s Group Exercise – Narthex
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22
10:30 a.m. Staff Meeting – Pastor’s Office
6:00 p.m. Communion – Sanctuary
THURSDAY, AUGUST 23
5:00 a.m. Prayer Vigil Begins – Chapel
9:00 a.m. Card Ministry – 208
10:00 a.m. Caregivers – 200
10:00 a.m. Parkinson’s Exercise Group – Narthex
7:00 p.m. Cub Scouts – Peatling
FRIDAY, AUGUST 24
8:00 a.m. Early Childhood Screenings
12:00 p.m. Church Offices Close
3:30 p.m. Salina Rescue Mission
SATURDAY, AUGUST 25
SUNDAY, AUGUST 26
8:15 a.m. Worship Service – Sanctuary
9:20 a.m. Small Groups – Classrooms
10:30 a.m. Worship Service – Sanctuary
11:30 a.m Jerry & Sandy Sleichter 50th Anniversary
Celebration – Narthex
7:00 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous – 203
MONDAY, AUGUST 27
7:00 p.m. Boy Scouts – Peatling
TUESDAY, AUGUST 28
10:00 a.m. Parkinson’s Group Exercise – Narthex
7:00 p.m. EOTT Quilt Guild – Wright Hall
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29
10:30 a.m. Staff Meeting – Pastor’s Office
6:00 p.m. Communion – Sanctuary
6:00 p.m. Youth Group – Scavenger Hunt –
Eisenhower Park
6:15 p.m. Chancel Choir Practice – Wright Hall
THURSDAY, AUGUST 30
5:00 a.m. Prayer Vigil Begins – Chapel
9:00 a.m. Card Ministry – 208
10:00 a.m. Parkinson’s Exercise Group – Narthex
7:00 p.m. Cub Scouts – Peatling
WELCOME TO THIS WORSHIP SERVICE
Please note that bold type indicates congregational participation. An asterisk (*) indicates that you are invited to stand as you are able. “H” stands for The United Methodist Hymnal, “F” stands for The Faith We Sing, and “W” stands for Worship and Song.
OUR VISION
A church of open hearts, open minds, and open doors.
OUR MISSION
To make disciples of Jesus Christ.
THOSE LEADING WORSHIP
Angie Hoerner, Accompanist
Tom Miles, Special Music
Lillian Hoffman, Acolyte
Ward Turnbull and Kent Wyatt, Liturgists
Mike Engle and Liz Collins, Sound
Troy Boyd and Jensen Woodworth, Slides
Clark Williamson, Director of Music Ministries
Wendy Robinson, Children’s Message
Jennifer and John Collins, Co-Pastors
CONTACT INFORMATION
John and Jennifer Collins, Pastors
Phones: 620-252-9822 (Jenny) and 620-252-9622 (John)
Email: john@revcollins.com and jenny@revcollins.com
Wendy Fielder, Administrative Assistant
Phone: 785-263-2623 — Email: office@abilenefirstumc.org
