April 20, 2008, 11:00 AM
WE ENTER INTO GOD’S PRESENCE
Preparation for Worship
*Call to Worship –
As a church today, we gather in the name of Jesus Christ. We celebrate His birth, His death, and His resurrection. Christ brings salvation and restores our souls to health. He transforms our lives and redeems our sin-filled world.We worship Christ our savior, healer, and redeemer.*Opening Praise – 501:1,3,4 “Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to Sing”
*God Greets Us
*We Greet Each Other
Litany for Embrace AIDS
Song – “Soon and Very Soon”
We look forward to the day when Christ returns in all His glory and when there will be no more sin. Until then we will devote our lives to walking in the way of the Lord, to seeking the desires of God’s heart, and to joining God’s work of redemption in the world.
God promised that we will find Him, when we seek Him with all of our heart.
Song – “I Worship You, Almighty God”
Our world is no longer the perfect creation that God intended. It is in poor health and in need of the healing presence of Christ. Millions are dying without the knowledge of a Savior who can heal both body and soul.
God desires a hand that brings healing.
HIV/AIDS is an epidemic that has infected both immoral and innocent alike. Millions of children are infected with HIV. This disease is not punishment from God; it is a painful consequence of sin.
God desires a heart that shows mercy.
Our world knows what it is to be needy. Today nearly 40 million people are living with AIDS around the world, almost half of them women. In 2005, HIV/AIDS claimed an estimated 2.8 million lives. In Africa alone 12 million children are AIDS orphans. Behind each person infected, there is a community affected. Poverty and famine deepen, and communities are stretched beyond capacity to care for those left behind.
God desires a religion that cares for the needy, the widow, and the orphan.
Our world is full of loneliness and emptiness. It is in need of a savior who offers hope and meaning.
God desires a church that embraces sinners.
Song – “O How He Loves You and Me”
As disciples of Christ, God desires that we:
Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.
May God find us faithful in this task.
*Song of Response – “Make Me a Servant”
WE HEAR GOD’S WORD
Children’s Time
Prayer of Preparation
Scripture Reading – John 21:1-14
Message – “Going Fishing”
Prayer
WE RESPOND WITH THANKSGIVING
*Song – 547 “Fill Thou My Life, O Lord, My God”
Sharing Joys and Concerns
Intercessory Prayer
The Offering – General Fund
WE ARE DISMISSED TO LOVE AND SERVEOpportunities for Ministry and Fellowship
*God Blesses Us
*Closing Praise – 544:1,2 “Lead Me, Guide Me”
Postlude
ANNOUNCEMENTSMonday, 7:00 PM Youth Team meets
Tuesday, 7:00 PM Deacons meet
Wednesday, 11:30 AM Women’s Luncheon at
Saturday, 8:45 AM Women’s Retreat
The women’s retreat “Ultimate Makeover” is this Saturday. Lots of work has already been done in preparation for a day of inspiration and fellowship. If you haven’t already registered, the deadline is today. Forms are available in the foyer and can be put in Debbie Harmon’s mail folder. Cost is $15 per person. Pray for Rev. Tineke Cornelison as she prepares the messages she will be bringing. Pray too that the fellowship in Christ will be encouraging to all who participate.
New addresses for your church directory:
Gloria MooreHeather De Haan2030 State Rt. 26 So. #20024 Davis Ave.Vestal, NY 13850Johnson City, NY 13790785-0349723-3560hdehaan@Binghamton.eduYouth Announcements:
Pastor Gelder plans to offer a class during the Sunday School time for any children and young people who are considering publicly professing their faith. The class will begin April 27 and run for four weeks. Talk with him if you have questions or to indicate your interest. NEXT SUNDAY, April 27, 2008
SUNDAY SCHOOL: 9:45 AM Classes for all ages. The adult class will begin a new series on discipleship titled “Called”. All are welcome to participate.
MORNING WORSHIP: 11:00 AM Pastor Gelder will be with us to bring a message “Back to Work” based on John 21:15-19 and Matthew 28:16-20.
