The Gift of Belonging

The 5th Sunday of the Easter Season

The journey for the disciples of Jesus from the events of Easter through to Pentecost was one of growing in understanding. It is a journey from total confusion and loss through to the confidence of Pentecost Day, when the disciples are empowered to spread the Good News of the resurrected Christ. In today’s gospel text from John 14:1-14, Jesus tells his anxious disciples not to be troubled by his impending death, urging them to trust in him and God. He explains he is going to prepare a place for them in his Father’s house (heaven), ensuring they will be with him again.

WE GATHER TO WORSHIP

Prelude: “Rondo Allegro” (Opus 13), Dan Ehlert Nielsen (b.1956)

Welcome

Thanksgiving for Baptism

Gathering Song: All Are Welcome

Apostolic Greeting

Hymn of Praise

Prayer of the Day

WE HEAR GOD’S WORD

Reading: 1 Peter 2:2-10

Gospel Acclamation and Gospel Reading: John 14:1-14

Children’s Time

Sermon: The Gift of Belonging

WE RESPOND TO GOD’S WORD

Anthem: “The Call”, Words by George Herbert. Music by Ralph Vaughan Williams

Apostles’ Creed

Prayers of the Church

WE WORSHIP WITH OUR TITHES AND OFFERINGS

Sharing of the Easter Peace

Offering and Offertory: “Offertoire”, Oscar Depuydt (1858-1925)

WE GATHER AROUND THE LORD’S TABLE

Holy Communion Story

The Lord’s Prayer

Communion Distribution: ” As Grains of Wheat”

Post Communion Blessing

WE DEPART TO SERVE

Sending Prayer & Benediction

Sending Song: “Go My Children, With My Blessing”

Dismissal

Postlude: Toccata on “How Firm A Foundation”, Dr. Gordon Young (1919-1998)