Parts of Worship
This document contains prayers and words for different parts of the worship service. Feel free to choose from these options or write your own!
Internet Resources
If you want to do some searching, re:Worship is a site that compiles worship elements from all over the Internet. Check the righthand panel for various lists, organized by scripture passage or theme.
Words of Welcome
CCMC has been described as having a “deep welcome.” This is the place in the service where we put this welcome into words, addressed to everyone present.
Examples of welcome words:
welcome
come into this home
this place of rest
it is not mine
that I offer it to you
it belongs to all
and all may enter
you already have a place here
it is not mine to give permission to enter
I am simply here to greet you at the door
and say
I’m glad you’re here
by Katie VanderHeide
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Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church. Each and every one of you is welcome in this space. No matter if you are plain or fancy, joyous or sorrowful, whole or in pieces, confident or questioning, you are welcome. Whatever your age, or color, or sexual identity, or whether or not your status is recognized by this government, you are welcome. This is a come-as-you-are celebration.
I invite us into this worship space as watchers of the word, as participants in the struggle, as agents of God’s light and love, as revelers in the joy, and as members of an inclusive body.
Let us worship God together. Let us open our eyes, ears, hearts, and minds to the divine’s loving presence among us.
Bienvenidos, a Chicago Community Mennonite Church. Que todos sean bienvenidas y bienvenidos aquí en este espacio. No importa cómo vienes a éste lugar; aunque seas elegante o sencillo, llena de alegría o de tristeza, si te sientes completa o en partes, con confianza o con preguntas, bienvenidos. No importa la edad que tengas, ni el color de tu piel. No importa la orientación sexual, ni el género, o si el gobierno te reconozca, sean todos bienvenidos. Este es una celebración de quienes somos. Los invito a entrar en la alabanza como estudiantes de la palabra, participantes en la lucha, y como agentes de la luz y del amor de Dios. Los invito a gozar de la alegría como miembros de un cuerpo incluyente. Alabemos a Dios.
Abramos nuestros ojos y oídos, los corazones y mentes a la presencia divina que está aquí entre nosotros.
Adapted from Wellington UCC by Sara Reschly, translated by Beth Peachey
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You are welcome here.
If you are delighted to be here,
and if you are tired or troubled,
you are welcome.
If your faith is strong,
and if your faith is battered or frail,
you are welcome.
If you are eager to praise God,
and if you need to be quiet,
you are welcome.
Sing the Story 161
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All are welcome here at Chicago Community Mennonite Church.
You are invited to fully enter this time of worship:
whatever you carry with you,
whatever your questions, doubts, fears,
whatever your joys, hopes, passions,
whatever your shape, size, color or abilities,
whomever you love, however you speak,
whatever your most dearly held values,
You are welcome here.
Let us worship our God, who is worthy to be praised,
In the name of Christ who has made us one,
and by the power of the Spirit who dwells among us.
written by Megan Ramer
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Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church this morning.
Whether you are a long time member, or a first time visitor,
Welcome.
Whether you come in joy,
Or sorrow,
Seeking answers,
Seeking solace,
Seeking a place to sing out!
Welcome.
All are welcome to worship here and participate fully
As God makes no distinction between peoples,
So we strive to do the same
Both here and in the world.
written by Megan Lynae Sohar
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Welcome. This is a sacred space.
Welcome. This is find-god-in-yourself-and-love-god-fiercely space.
This is every-true-thing-is-okay space.
This is embodied space.
Safe space.
Dance space.
Free space.
Nonviolent space.
Political space.
Resistant space.
Cry space.
Laugh space.
Hope space.
Welcome.
This is your space.
adapted from Breaking up with God, Sarah Sentilles, page 171
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Here in this place we find what we need to increase God’s justice and God’s peace.
Welcome to you who have found yourselves in this place out of curiosity.
Welcome to you who have found yourselves in this place for quite some time.
Welcome.
You who have said no to the church because of your own revelation or frustration of being marginalized, I welcome you.
To those who have chosen Christ and those who have not, welcome.
By the grace and peace of love I urge you to enter this space fully who you are; here you are loved and supported.
Here you are truly a stranger no more but a beloved member of this community.
adapted from Chris Parks, Welcome from Inclusive Worship Service, Phoenix 2013
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As we gather for worship, whatever forms of judgment or exclusion you have experienced in your family, in your churches, in your work environments and communities, whatever condemnations have been internalized to the extent that you struggle within, whatever recent experiences have jostled your sense of well being, whatever violences have alienated you from others or from God, know that in this place and in this time, because of the coming of the Holy One among us, grace and mercy, life and light are here to meet you. The door is open. You are come well and welcome.
written by Glenn Martin Klaassen
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Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church.
As we seek to follow the way of Jesus,
we welcome all people to fully participate in our worship and fellowship:
all ages, colors, backgrounds, and physical and mental abilities;
male, female, and all manner of beautifully diverse genders,
gay, straight, and all manner of beautifully diverse sexualities,
single, partnered, and all manner of beautifully diverse families,
rich and poor and anywhere in between.
We are all God's beloveds, and all are welcome here.
written by Megan Ramer
*********************
Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church.
As we seek to follow the way of Jesus,
we welcome all people to fully participate in our worship and fellowship:
all ages, colors, backgrounds, and physical and mental abilities;
all genders, sexualities, economic means, and family structures and expressions.
We are all God's beloveds, and all are welcome here.
written by Megan Ramer
Calls to Worship
A Call to Worship gathers the community and draws us into awareness that we are part of a worshiping body. The imperative voice is most appropriate here, i.e. Come! Enter! Sing praise! A Call to Worship is directed to the congregation and reminds us of the purpose of our assembling: to honor the God who has brought us together.
Finding Calls to Worship in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 659-669
Sing the Journey, numbers 119, 120, 124
Sing the Story, numbers 144, 190
Psalms 95, 100, 148, 149, 150
Examples of Calls to Worship found elsewhere:
One: Jesus said, “Follow me.” We don’t always know what that means.
Many: We are on a journey of discovery. We are here because we want to be God’s people;
One: We are here because we are broken and want to be whole again;
Many: We are here to celebrate our lives, and God’s presence in this life.
All: Let us worship God with great thanksgiving. Amen.
from Touch Holiness: Resources for Worship, eds. Duck and Tirabassi
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One: God calls to us:
All: Maintain justice, and do what is right,
for soon my salvation will come,
and my deliverance be revealed.
One: We who love God and keep the covenant,
All: God will bring us to the holy mountain,
and make us joyful.
Our offerings and sacrifices, God will accept.
One: God gathers the outcasts.
All: God’s dwelling place is for all peoples.
from Isaiah 56:1, 6-8
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One: Give thanks to God, who is kind;
All: whose steadfast love endures forever!
One: Let the gates of truth and justice be opened
All: that I may enter through them.
One: This is the door to life;
All: those who know love shall enter through it.
One: This is the day that God has made;
All: let us rejoice and be glad in it.
from Psalm 118
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All you who are thirsty,
this is the place for water.
All you who are hungry,
this is the place to be fed.
Why spend your earnings on what is not food?
Why pay for that which fails to satisfy?
Here, without money,
here, without price,
all may enjoy the bread of heaven.
God speaks,
and all who listen will have life.
from A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 43, from Isaiah 55
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One: Make a joyful noise to God all the earth,
All: Sing out the praises of God.
One: Come all you people and know the joy of the Lord,
All: The love of God is greater than the tongue can tell!
One: Bless God all you people, bless God’s Holy Name!
All: We praise, and worship, and honor,
and glorify Your name O God!
from Psalm 98
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Let us gather together in thanksgiving to God!
For God has made us and this earth, our home.
Let us gather together in gratitude to one another.
For we are the bearers of God’s blessing and love for all the earth.
Let us praise God. Let us join hearts.
Let us reach out in care and courage
so that the goodness of life may be for all God’s creation--
Today and for generations to come! Amen.
adapted from Touch Holiness: Resources for Worship, eds. Duck and Tirabassi
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One: All you who love Jesus,
All: Join us in worship!
One: All you who believe,
All: Join us in worship!
One: All you who question,
All: Join us in worship!
One: All you who falter,
All: Join us in worship!
One: And may our worship move us forward together as we seek to follow Jesus.
by Rev. Joanna Harader, http://spaciousfaith.com
Prayers for Peace
Prayers are addressed to God. They may be spoken or sung. In the Prayer for Peace consider naming a specific country, region, person or group of people that particularly need peace this week, or specific peacemakers.
Examples of Prayers for Peace:
Almighty God, open our eyes to the injustice around us. Soften our hearts and empower us to act against the powers that seek to destroy and divide. Amen.
Verse and Voice email from Sojourners magazine
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Holy One, Creator of Life:
Yours is the peace that passes all understanding.
Whether the war is between countries, belief systems,
varied upbringing, family members or churches...
finding common ground is one way to start.
For all who are searching, may your peace release hope.
For all who are aching, may your peace bring relief.
For all who are arguing, may your peace intercede.
For all who are hating, may your peace cast out fear.
May your love surround and envelop all who are living with war,
all who have been devastated by war,
and all who are perpetuating war.
May your transforming love pervade the darkness. Amen.
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God of our lives,
We come to you, knowing that you hear our every word, sense each inner murmuring, and offer our every breath. We long to know the things that make for peace in our lives, in our world—and not just to know, but to participate with eyes and hands open, ready to receive and ready to give your gift of shalom. May it be so. Amen.
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Dear God,
For all who dream of peace
For all who long for justice
Bend your ear to listen and your arm to save
For all who faint from hunger
For all who thirst for mercy
Give bread and grant freedom from all that binds and oppresses
For all whose lives are intertwined with systems that harm--
systems that violate, exploit, exclude, objectify, and dominate
Inspire a longing for justice and the courage to break free from the powers that oppress
Set our feet on the paths of peace
And move our hands to do the work of justice
May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen
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Kyrie for the city
One: At times we turn away
from the poverty we see,
from the jingle of change in cups,
All: God, have mercy.
One: At times we have no tears
when another youth is shot,
All: God, have mercy.
One: At times we long for an open field
and clear brook, instead of hard pavement
and tall buildings.
All: God, have mercy.
One: At times we long for silence,
as the sirens ring and trains clatter.
All: God, have mercy.
Grant us all we need
to seek the peace of this city, Oh God. Amen.
Written by Celeste Grace Groff
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Prayer against violence, a prayer for peace
Perfect love casts out fear
and so today we pray for your spirit of love on our world.
Cast out the strapping of bombs to bodies.
Cast out the explosion of bombs in crowded places.
Cast out the tricking of children to carry bombs.
Cast out the desperation that leads people to terrorist acts.
Cast out the making of walls that divide and imprison us.
Cast out the firing of missiles and the bulldozing of homes.
Cast out the prejudice against people of a certain race or culture.
Cast out the political structures that perpetuate violence.
Cast out the hatred that produces fear.
Send down the courage to reach out in peace.
Send down the resolution to not return evil for evil.
Send down the creativity to find peaceful political solutions.
Send down the wisdom that politicians and diplomats need.
Send down the commitment to work together to end terrorism.
Send down the power of nonviolence to create change.
Send down the comfort and justice that victims need.
Send down the love that will end our fear.
We ask these things in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Amen.
by Carol Penner, www.leadinginworship.com
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God, who calms the wind and seas,
whose ways are higher than our ways,
and whose thoughts are higher than our thoughts,
Only you can calm the raging of the nations,
the impulse for war,
the eagerness to destroy another
in defense of our own interests.
Only you can take hearts of stone
and turn them into hearts of flesh.
And so we beg you to thwart the ways of policymakers
who rush to war.
Replace their desire for war with a desire for justice and for peace.
Give us the courage to be messengers in word and deed of your
good news, to announce your reign to all peoples and nations,
to Congress and to our communities.
Hear the cries of those who suffer as a result of war
civilians, soldiers, veterans, family members,
those whose schools and homes have been destroyed,
those whose souls have been torn apart.
Have mercy on them, O Lord.
May all of us together go out in joy and be led forth in peace,
people hand-in-hand with people, nations together with nations.
Amen.
by Rachelle Lyndaker Schlabach, Director, Washington Office, Mennonite Central Committee
Children’s Time
Involving children in worship time affirms their value as full persons in the life of the community, but it also speaks lovingly to the “little one in all of us,” and thus it is a life-affirming practice ministering to all.
“If the only themes you present week after week is that God loves them, we love them, and we need to love each other (peacemaking) - that's good enough. They could hear those themes a thousand years, and it would be perfectly fine.”
- Marilou Adams
Prayers
Prayers are addressed to God. They may be spoken or sung. Praising, thanking and adoring acknowledge who God is and what God has done for us. Lamenting names our sorrow. Petitioning asks for God’s assistance or action in the world and in our lives. In intercession, we lay before God the needs of other people. In confessing, we admit our failures, and tell the truth about our sin and our participation in the brokenness of the world and relationships. All of these can be appropriate in prayers throughout the service. Consider concluding your prayers with “And all God’s people said…” or something similar in order to prompt the congregation to respond with a communal “Amen.”
Finding prayers in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 718-747
Sing the Journey, numbers 137-146
You may lead the congregation to respond to each sharing. Not all responses fit all situations and sharings. Use your judgement and listening skills to guide congregational responses. Speak responses with intention. Some possible responses are:
*When a visitor is present: “Welcome,” “Thank you for coming,” or “Good to have you with us.”
*Leader: “Who will join in this prayer?” People: “I will.”
*Leader: “God, in your mercy and goodness” People: “Hear our prayer”
*Leader: “Alleluia!” People: “Alleluia!”
*Leader: “With gratitude we say” People: “Thank you, thank you.”
Sung Prayers:
Some hymns in the ‘praying’ sections of our hymnals lend themselves to serving as a prayer better than others. Consider selecting familiar and/or Taize style chants that can be repeated, internalized and potentially lead people into a prayerful, meditative space. Consider selecting just one verse of a hymn and ask the congregation to sing it as a refrain at designated times in the midst of a spoken prayer.
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 346-382
Sing the Journey, numbers 46-59
Example of Prayer of Confession and Assurance:
One: We confess that we often resist talking about sin,
in part because of its misuse,
but also because it is hard to confront sin in ourselves
even when it leads to greater freedom.
All: We confess that like unskilled archers, we often miss our mark
and go far wide of the bullseye.
We seek the right things, but in the wrong places.
We confess that we are often responsible
for times of painful separation from God,
our neighbors, and true selves.
We confess that we often blame others for that separation, and find ourselves trapped.
One: Having confessed our sin, let us receive God’s grace and step into the freedom of being more fully the beloved ones God has made us to be.
by Celeste Grace Groff
Offering
We take up an offering each week as an important part of how our community continues to function in this form. We give thanks for what is given because we are grateful for what we have been given by God, for what we are able to give, and for the generosity of everyone in our community. The offering prayer is addressed to God, in gratitude for gifts given, and in petition for these gifts to help create a better world.
Finding offering prayers in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 748–751
Sing the Journey, numbers 147–152
Examples of offering prayers found elsewhere:
As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment,
may we become imitators of you, Gracious God,
who holds nothing back from us,
but is generous and gracious with all that is yours.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
by Thom Schuman http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.ca/
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God of abundant love,
in you, nothing is lost.
Gather our offerings,
as Jesus gathered up the baskets
of leftover food.
Gather our efforts,
as Jesus gathered the hopes
of the people who looked for a true king.
Gather our service,
as Jesus gathered people
to God’s heavenly banquet.
Bless the offerings we have gathered,
that nothing may be lost. Amen.
Adapted from The Abingdon Worship Annual 2009 http://www.ministrymatters.com/
(inspired by John 6:1-21)
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Five loaves and two fish
are never enough
until you start
giving it away.
Dear God,
Remind me to
share
whatever
is in my basket
today.
You will do the rest.
Amen.
by Rev. Karla Miller http://revgalprayerpals.blogspot.ca/
(inspired by Matthew 14:15-21, Mark 6:35-44, Luke 9:12-17, John 6:1-15)
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We give in grateful thanksgiving for all that God has given us.
In the upside down world of the gospel,
we measure our wealth not by what we have,
but what we can give away.
Let us give away generously, in this offering,
To bless your church, your people, your creation.
By Rev. Quentin Chin.
http://uccfiles.com/pdf/FeedmySheepEaster3April14.pdf
*********************
In this world: kingdom living.
In our mouths: kingdom praises.
In our hearts: kingdom goals.
In our hands: kingdom gifts.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven! Amen.
by Carol Penner http://carolpenner.typepad.com/
(inspired by Matthew 6: 10)
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God of the wilderness,
We give these offerings in gratitude,
rejoicing in the abundance of your gifts to us.
We give these offerings in faith,
trusting that you will provide for our needs.
We give these offerings in hope,
knowing you can use them to spread your love in this world.
And with these offerings, we give ourselves;
May we live with generous hearts, with open hands. Amen
by Joanna Harader http://spaciousfaith.com/
*********************
What we give in love is received in love.
By Alison Brookins
Benedictions
A benediction is a blessing addressed to the community. The keywords “May God…” mark the pattern of benediction, and it extends to the congregation the hope and promise of God’s shalom. A benediction is sometimes accompanied by a gesture, such as hands raised and outstretched toward the congregation, or by inviting worshippers to extend their hands in a receptive posture. A closing prayer, addressed to God, is a lovely worship element, but it is not a benediction. Our hymnals typically mix benedictions and closing prayers all together, including in the ‘sending’ section of our blue hymnal, so you will want to select carefully.
Finding benedictions in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 763-764, 766, 770, 772-774
Sing the Journey, numbers 157-165
Sing the Story, numbers 137 (Christmas), 140 (Epiphany), 167 (Lent), 153, 158-159, 175-176, 188, 195, 201 (anytime)
Examples of benedictions found elsewhere:
as water fills the ocean
so may you be filled
as the fire warms the hearth
so may you be warmed
as the earth supports the foundations of mountains
so may you be supported
and as the wind moves the grasses
so may you be moved
what you need is here
surrounding and enveloping you
yet sending you out
so go
and in the overflow of fullness
fill those you meet
with the candle you hold
kindle flame in those whose fire has gone cold
in the knowledge of your firm foundation
support one another
and with the nudging of the wind
move the world
one step closer
to the kindom
by Katie VanderHeide, written for the ordination of Alison Casella Brookins
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May God bless you with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships,
So that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them
And to turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in this world,
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen.
A Franciscan Benediction
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Go now to love in the face of hatred,
To forgive in the face of pain,
To live in the face of death.
From Reclaiming the Bible for a Non-Religious World, John Shelby Spong, 287
*********************
Take to the World
Go in peace to love and to serve
And let your ears ring long with what you've heard
And may the bread on your tongue leave a trail of crumbs
To lead the hungry back to the place that you are from
And take to the world this love, this hope and faith
And take to the world this rare, relentless grace
And like the three in one, know you must become
What you want to save 'cause that's still the way
He takes to the world
So go and go far, take light deep in the dark
Believe what's true He uses all, even you
By Derek Webb
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One: From where we are to where you need us,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
One: From the security of what we know to the adventure of what you will reveal,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
One: To refashion the fabric of this world until it resembles the shape of your Reign,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
One: Because good things have been prepared for those who love God,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 24
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One: May God bless us;
may God keep us in the Spirit’s care
and lead our lives with love.
All: May Christ’s warm welcome
shine from our hearts
and Christ’s own peace prevail
through this and every day,
until greater life shall call. Amen.
A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 29
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One: On our heads and our houses,
All: The blessing of God.
One: In our coming and going,
All: The peace of God.
One: In our life and believing,
All: The love of God.
One: At our end and new beginning,
All: The arms of God to welcome us and bring us home. Amen.
A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 66
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May the Lord bless you and keep you;
May the Lord's face shine upon you and be gracious unto you;
May God give you grace never to sell yourself short;
Grace to risk something big for something good;
Grace to remember that the world is now
too dangerous for anything but truth and
too small for anything but love;
So may God take your minds and think through them;
May God take your lips and speak through them;
May God take your hearts and set them on fire.
Through the power of God who created us, who is redeeming us,
and whose holy presence refuses to leave us unchanged. Amen.
William Sloane Coffin, 2002
*********************
In Christ we experience our wholeness,
we are a new creation.
As you have received God’s grace,
go now and dare to reach out to others,
to help others reconcile and make new.
And the presence of God,
who is Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer,
will go with you.
Shaping Sanctuary: Proclaiming God's Grace in an Inclusive Church. ed. Kelly Turney
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One: Creator God, worshipping you has satisfied us
like eating a peach dripping with juice.
All: Worshipping you has refreshed us
like being brushed by a breeze from the lake.
One: May our worship sustain us this week,
that we may live and work in the ways of your reign.
All: Amen.
from Liturgy for Life in the City, Celeste Grace Groff
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With the help of God's grace, we will struggle for justice.
With the compassion of Christ, we will stand for what is true
With God’s abiding kindness, we will love even our enemies.
With the love of Christ, we will resist all evil.
With God’s unending faithfulness, we will work to build the beloved community.
from Litany of Resistance, Jim Loney
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What you hold, may you always hold.
What you do, may you always do and never abandon.
But with swift pace, light step, and unswerving feet,
so that even your steps stir up no dust,
go forward securely, joyfully, and swiftly,
on the path of prudent happiness,
believing nothing, agreeing with nothing
which would dissuade you from this resolution
or which would place a stumbling block for you on the way,
so that you may offer your vows to the Most High
in the pursuit of that holiness and wholeness
to which the Spirit of God has called you.
Saint Clare of Assisi, modified from “Second Letter to Blessed Agnes of Prague”
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May God deny you an easy peace,
and grant you instead, passion,
revolutionary passion that spills over into the world
in acts of compassion and love, justice and integrity.
Go in the spirit and way of Christ,
who is our strength, our passion, and our true peace.
Hymnal Supplement, published by Brethren Press, #1055
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God’s blessing be upon us
as we leave and return changed to our homes.
May we strengthen and encourage one another
in our shared vision.
And may the blessing of our adventurous Creator God go with us.
And may the blessing of the Son,
who showed us how to live,
re-shape us.
And may the blessing of the dancing Spirit
joyfully enable us in our renewed living.
from Hope in God’s Future: Christian Discipleship in the Context of Climate Change
Report & Study Guide, Methodist Publishing 2009. http://third-space.org.uk/blog
Internet Resources
If you want to do some searching, re:Worship is a site that compiles worship elements from all over the Internet. Check the righthand panel for various lists, organized by scripture passage or theme.
Words of Welcome
CCMC has been described as having a “deep welcome.” This is the place in the service where we put this welcome into words, addressed to everyone present.
Examples of welcome words:
welcome
come into this home
this place of rest
it is not mine
that I offer it to you
it belongs to all
and all may enter
you already have a place here
it is not mine to give permission to enter
I am simply here to greet you at the door
and say
I’m glad you’re here
by Katie VanderHeide
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Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church. Each and every one of you is welcome in this space. No matter if you are plain or fancy, joyous or sorrowful, whole or in pieces, confident or questioning, you are welcome. Whatever your age, or color, or sexual identity, or whether or not your status is recognized by this government, you are welcome. This is a come-as-you-are celebration.
I invite us into this worship space as watchers of the word, as participants in the struggle, as agents of God’s light and love, as revelers in the joy, and as members of an inclusive body.
Let us worship God together. Let us open our eyes, ears, hearts, and minds to the divine’s loving presence among us.
Bienvenidos, a Chicago Community Mennonite Church. Que todos sean bienvenidas y bienvenidos aquí en este espacio. No importa cómo vienes a éste lugar; aunque seas elegante o sencillo, llena de alegría o de tristeza, si te sientes completa o en partes, con confianza o con preguntas, bienvenidos. No importa la edad que tengas, ni el color de tu piel. No importa la orientación sexual, ni el género, o si el gobierno te reconozca, sean todos bienvenidos. Este es una celebración de quienes somos. Los invito a entrar en la alabanza como estudiantes de la palabra, participantes en la lucha, y como agentes de la luz y del amor de Dios. Los invito a gozar de la alegría como miembros de un cuerpo incluyente. Alabemos a Dios.
Abramos nuestros ojos y oídos, los corazones y mentes a la presencia divina que está aquí entre nosotros.
Adapted from Wellington UCC by Sara Reschly, translated by Beth Peachey
*********************
You are welcome here.
If you are delighted to be here,
and if you are tired or troubled,
you are welcome.
If your faith is strong,
and if your faith is battered or frail,
you are welcome.
If you are eager to praise God,
and if you need to be quiet,
you are welcome.
Sing the Story 161
*********************
All are welcome here at Chicago Community Mennonite Church.
You are invited to fully enter this time of worship:
whatever you carry with you,
whatever your questions, doubts, fears,
whatever your joys, hopes, passions,
whatever your shape, size, color or abilities,
whomever you love, however you speak,
whatever your most dearly held values,
You are welcome here.
Let us worship our God, who is worthy to be praised,
In the name of Christ who has made us one,
and by the power of the Spirit who dwells among us.
written by Megan Ramer
*********************
Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church this morning.
Whether you are a long time member, or a first time visitor,
Welcome.
Whether you come in joy,
Or sorrow,
Seeking answers,
Seeking solace,
Seeking a place to sing out!
Welcome.
All are welcome to worship here and participate fully
As God makes no distinction between peoples,
So we strive to do the same
Both here and in the world.
written by Megan Lynae Sohar
*********************
Welcome. This is a sacred space.
Welcome. This is find-god-in-yourself-and-love-god-fiercely space.
This is every-true-thing-is-okay space.
This is embodied space.
Safe space.
Dance space.
Free space.
Nonviolent space.
Political space.
Resistant space.
Cry space.
Laugh space.
Hope space.
Welcome.
This is your space.
adapted from Breaking up with God, Sarah Sentilles, page 171
*********************
Here in this place we find what we need to increase God’s justice and God’s peace.
Welcome to you who have found yourselves in this place out of curiosity.
Welcome to you who have found yourselves in this place for quite some time.
Welcome.
You who have said no to the church because of your own revelation or frustration of being marginalized, I welcome you.
To those who have chosen Christ and those who have not, welcome.
By the grace and peace of love I urge you to enter this space fully who you are; here you are loved and supported.
Here you are truly a stranger no more but a beloved member of this community.
adapted from Chris Parks, Welcome from Inclusive Worship Service, Phoenix 2013
*********************
As we gather for worship, whatever forms of judgment or exclusion you have experienced in your family, in your churches, in your work environments and communities, whatever condemnations have been internalized to the extent that you struggle within, whatever recent experiences have jostled your sense of well being, whatever violences have alienated you from others or from God, know that in this place and in this time, because of the coming of the Holy One among us, grace and mercy, life and light are here to meet you. The door is open. You are come well and welcome.
written by Glenn Martin Klaassen
*********************
Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church.
As we seek to follow the way of Jesus,
we welcome all people to fully participate in our worship and fellowship:
all ages, colors, backgrounds, and physical and mental abilities;
male, female, and all manner of beautifully diverse genders,
gay, straight, and all manner of beautifully diverse sexualities,
single, partnered, and all manner of beautifully diverse families,
rich and poor and anywhere in between.
We are all God's beloveds, and all are welcome here.
written by Megan Ramer
*********************
Welcome to Chicago Community Mennonite Church.
As we seek to follow the way of Jesus,
we welcome all people to fully participate in our worship and fellowship:
all ages, colors, backgrounds, and physical and mental abilities;
all genders, sexualities, economic means, and family structures and expressions.
We are all God's beloveds, and all are welcome here.
written by Megan Ramer
Calls to Worship
A Call to Worship gathers the community and draws us into awareness that we are part of a worshiping body. The imperative voice is most appropriate here, i.e. Come! Enter! Sing praise! A Call to Worship is directed to the congregation and reminds us of the purpose of our assembling: to honor the God who has brought us together.
Finding Calls to Worship in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 659-669
Sing the Journey, numbers 119, 120, 124
Sing the Story, numbers 144, 190
Psalms 95, 100, 148, 149, 150
Examples of Calls to Worship found elsewhere:
One: Jesus said, “Follow me.” We don’t always know what that means.
Many: We are on a journey of discovery. We are here because we want to be God’s people;
One: We are here because we are broken and want to be whole again;
Many: We are here to celebrate our lives, and God’s presence in this life.
All: Let us worship God with great thanksgiving. Amen.
from Touch Holiness: Resources for Worship, eds. Duck and Tirabassi
*********************
One: God calls to us:
All: Maintain justice, and do what is right,
for soon my salvation will come,
and my deliverance be revealed.
One: We who love God and keep the covenant,
All: God will bring us to the holy mountain,
and make us joyful.
Our offerings and sacrifices, God will accept.
One: God gathers the outcasts.
All: God’s dwelling place is for all peoples.
from Isaiah 56:1, 6-8
*********************
One: Give thanks to God, who is kind;
All: whose steadfast love endures forever!
One: Let the gates of truth and justice be opened
All: that I may enter through them.
One: This is the door to life;
All: those who know love shall enter through it.
One: This is the day that God has made;
All: let us rejoice and be glad in it.
from Psalm 118
*********************
All you who are thirsty,
this is the place for water.
All you who are hungry,
this is the place to be fed.
Why spend your earnings on what is not food?
Why pay for that which fails to satisfy?
Here, without money,
here, without price,
all may enjoy the bread of heaven.
God speaks,
and all who listen will have life.
from A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 43, from Isaiah 55
*********************
One: Make a joyful noise to God all the earth,
All: Sing out the praises of God.
One: Come all you people and know the joy of the Lord,
All: The love of God is greater than the tongue can tell!
One: Bless God all you people, bless God’s Holy Name!
All: We praise, and worship, and honor,
and glorify Your name O God!
from Psalm 98
*********************
Let us gather together in thanksgiving to God!
For God has made us and this earth, our home.
Let us gather together in gratitude to one another.
For we are the bearers of God’s blessing and love for all the earth.
Let us praise God. Let us join hearts.
Let us reach out in care and courage
so that the goodness of life may be for all God’s creation--
Today and for generations to come! Amen.
adapted from Touch Holiness: Resources for Worship, eds. Duck and Tirabassi
*********************
One: All you who love Jesus,
All: Join us in worship!
One: All you who believe,
All: Join us in worship!
One: All you who question,
All: Join us in worship!
One: All you who falter,
All: Join us in worship!
One: And may our worship move us forward together as we seek to follow Jesus.
by Rev. Joanna Harader, http://spaciousfaith.com
Prayers for Peace
Prayers are addressed to God. They may be spoken or sung. In the Prayer for Peace consider naming a specific country, region, person or group of people that particularly need peace this week, or specific peacemakers.
Examples of Prayers for Peace:
Almighty God, open our eyes to the injustice around us. Soften our hearts and empower us to act against the powers that seek to destroy and divide. Amen.
Verse and Voice email from Sojourners magazine
*********************
Holy One, Creator of Life:
Yours is the peace that passes all understanding.
Whether the war is between countries, belief systems,
varied upbringing, family members or churches...
finding common ground is one way to start.
For all who are searching, may your peace release hope.
For all who are aching, may your peace bring relief.
For all who are arguing, may your peace intercede.
For all who are hating, may your peace cast out fear.
May your love surround and envelop all who are living with war,
all who have been devastated by war,
and all who are perpetuating war.
May your transforming love pervade the darkness. Amen.
*********************
God of our lives,
We come to you, knowing that you hear our every word, sense each inner murmuring, and offer our every breath. We long to know the things that make for peace in our lives, in our world—and not just to know, but to participate with eyes and hands open, ready to receive and ready to give your gift of shalom. May it be so. Amen.
*********************
Dear God,
For all who dream of peace
For all who long for justice
Bend your ear to listen and your arm to save
For all who faint from hunger
For all who thirst for mercy
Give bread and grant freedom from all that binds and oppresses
For all whose lives are intertwined with systems that harm--
systems that violate, exploit, exclude, objectify, and dominate
Inspire a longing for justice and the courage to break free from the powers that oppress
Set our feet on the paths of peace
And move our hands to do the work of justice
May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen
*********************
Kyrie for the city
One: At times we turn away
from the poverty we see,
from the jingle of change in cups,
All: God, have mercy.
One: At times we have no tears
when another youth is shot,
All: God, have mercy.
One: At times we long for an open field
and clear brook, instead of hard pavement
and tall buildings.
All: God, have mercy.
One: At times we long for silence,
as the sirens ring and trains clatter.
All: God, have mercy.
Grant us all we need
to seek the peace of this city, Oh God. Amen.
Written by Celeste Grace Groff
*********************
Prayer against violence, a prayer for peace
Perfect love casts out fear
and so today we pray for your spirit of love on our world.
Cast out the strapping of bombs to bodies.
Cast out the explosion of bombs in crowded places.
Cast out the tricking of children to carry bombs.
Cast out the desperation that leads people to terrorist acts.
Cast out the making of walls that divide and imprison us.
Cast out the firing of missiles and the bulldozing of homes.
Cast out the prejudice against people of a certain race or culture.
Cast out the political structures that perpetuate violence.
Cast out the hatred that produces fear.
Send down the courage to reach out in peace.
Send down the resolution to not return evil for evil.
Send down the creativity to find peaceful political solutions.
Send down the wisdom that politicians and diplomats need.
Send down the commitment to work together to end terrorism.
Send down the power of nonviolence to create change.
Send down the comfort and justice that victims need.
Send down the love that will end our fear.
We ask these things in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Amen.
by Carol Penner, www.leadinginworship.com
*********************
God, who calms the wind and seas,
whose ways are higher than our ways,
and whose thoughts are higher than our thoughts,
Only you can calm the raging of the nations,
the impulse for war,
the eagerness to destroy another
in defense of our own interests.
Only you can take hearts of stone
and turn them into hearts of flesh.
And so we beg you to thwart the ways of policymakers
who rush to war.
Replace their desire for war with a desire for justice and for peace.
Give us the courage to be messengers in word and deed of your
good news, to announce your reign to all peoples and nations,
to Congress and to our communities.
Hear the cries of those who suffer as a result of war
civilians, soldiers, veterans, family members,
those whose schools and homes have been destroyed,
those whose souls have been torn apart.
Have mercy on them, O Lord.
May all of us together go out in joy and be led forth in peace,
people hand-in-hand with people, nations together with nations.
Amen.
by Rachelle Lyndaker Schlabach, Director, Washington Office, Mennonite Central Committee
Children’s Time
Involving children in worship time affirms their value as full persons in the life of the community, but it also speaks lovingly to the “little one in all of us,” and thus it is a life-affirming practice ministering to all.
“If the only themes you present week after week is that God loves them, we love them, and we need to love each other (peacemaking) - that's good enough. They could hear those themes a thousand years, and it would be perfectly fine.”
- Marilou Adams
- Children’s time is about the children, not the adults. Currently we have children from ages 1 - 9 that come forward.
- Be brief.
- Pick a simple, concrete message. For example, “God has many names,” or, “Easter is a surprise.”
- Use short stories.
- Keep a straight face. Treat their comments, questions, and observations with dignity. A good rule of thumb is, only laugh if the children are laughing too.
- Be tactile. Give them something to hold and touch. For example, let them wear multiple name tags each so they experience how a person can have many names. Or on Easter, actually surprise them. Resurrection may be too abstract for them, but on a gut level they’ll associate Easter with an experience of surprise.
- Be as literal as possible. For example, “Jesus cares about hungry people, so we should too. Let’s take these tortillas and cheese and offer them to each other here in the sanctuary right now.”
- Ask concrete questions about their experiences. For example, “What am I holding?” “Do you ever share your food?”
- Give them movement! Let them talk! If there’s talking, make sure the kids are doing it and not just adults. If you don’t give them ways to move, they’ll move anyway: so you may as well give them movements that keep them focused on the activity and facilitate their spiritual development.
- Ask for consent. During children’s time, use invitational language just like we do with the adults in worship. And if they decline your invitation, they should be free to do so.
Prayers
Prayers are addressed to God. They may be spoken or sung. Praising, thanking and adoring acknowledge who God is and what God has done for us. Lamenting names our sorrow. Petitioning asks for God’s assistance or action in the world and in our lives. In intercession, we lay before God the needs of other people. In confessing, we admit our failures, and tell the truth about our sin and our participation in the brokenness of the world and relationships. All of these can be appropriate in prayers throughout the service. Consider concluding your prayers with “And all God’s people said…” or something similar in order to prompt the congregation to respond with a communal “Amen.”
Finding prayers in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 718-747
Sing the Journey, numbers 137-146
You may lead the congregation to respond to each sharing. Not all responses fit all situations and sharings. Use your judgement and listening skills to guide congregational responses. Speak responses with intention. Some possible responses are:
*When a visitor is present: “Welcome,” “Thank you for coming,” or “Good to have you with us.”
*Leader: “Who will join in this prayer?” People: “I will.”
*Leader: “God, in your mercy and goodness” People: “Hear our prayer”
*Leader: “Alleluia!” People: “Alleluia!”
*Leader: “With gratitude we say” People: “Thank you, thank you.”
Sung Prayers:
Some hymns in the ‘praying’ sections of our hymnals lend themselves to serving as a prayer better than others. Consider selecting familiar and/or Taize style chants that can be repeated, internalized and potentially lead people into a prayerful, meditative space. Consider selecting just one verse of a hymn and ask the congregation to sing it as a refrain at designated times in the midst of a spoken prayer.
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 346-382
Sing the Journey, numbers 46-59
Example of Prayer of Confession and Assurance:
One: We confess that we often resist talking about sin,
in part because of its misuse,
but also because it is hard to confront sin in ourselves
even when it leads to greater freedom.
All: We confess that like unskilled archers, we often miss our mark
and go far wide of the bullseye.
We seek the right things, but in the wrong places.
We confess that we are often responsible
for times of painful separation from God,
our neighbors, and true selves.
We confess that we often blame others for that separation, and find ourselves trapped.
One: Having confessed our sin, let us receive God’s grace and step into the freedom of being more fully the beloved ones God has made us to be.
by Celeste Grace Groff
Offering
We take up an offering each week as an important part of how our community continues to function in this form. We give thanks for what is given because we are grateful for what we have been given by God, for what we are able to give, and for the generosity of everyone in our community. The offering prayer is addressed to God, in gratitude for gifts given, and in petition for these gifts to help create a better world.
Finding offering prayers in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 748–751
Sing the Journey, numbers 147–152
Examples of offering prayers found elsewhere:
As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment,
may we become imitators of you, Gracious God,
who holds nothing back from us,
but is generous and gracious with all that is yours.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
by Thom Schuman http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.ca/
*********************
God of abundant love,
in you, nothing is lost.
Gather our offerings,
as Jesus gathered up the baskets
of leftover food.
Gather our efforts,
as Jesus gathered the hopes
of the people who looked for a true king.
Gather our service,
as Jesus gathered people
to God’s heavenly banquet.
Bless the offerings we have gathered,
that nothing may be lost. Amen.
Adapted from The Abingdon Worship Annual 2009 http://www.ministrymatters.com/
(inspired by John 6:1-21)
*********************
Five loaves and two fish
are never enough
until you start
giving it away.
Dear God,
Remind me to
share
whatever
is in my basket
today.
You will do the rest.
Amen.
by Rev. Karla Miller http://revgalprayerpals.blogspot.ca/
(inspired by Matthew 14:15-21, Mark 6:35-44, Luke 9:12-17, John 6:1-15)
*********************
We give in grateful thanksgiving for all that God has given us.
In the upside down world of the gospel,
we measure our wealth not by what we have,
but what we can give away.
Let us give away generously, in this offering,
To bless your church, your people, your creation.
By Rev. Quentin Chin.
http://uccfiles.com/pdf/FeedmySheepEaster3April14.pdf
*********************
In this world: kingdom living.
In our mouths: kingdom praises.
In our hearts: kingdom goals.
In our hands: kingdom gifts.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven! Amen.
by Carol Penner http://carolpenner.typepad.com/
(inspired by Matthew 6: 10)
*********************
God of the wilderness,
We give these offerings in gratitude,
rejoicing in the abundance of your gifts to us.
We give these offerings in faith,
trusting that you will provide for our needs.
We give these offerings in hope,
knowing you can use them to spread your love in this world.
And with these offerings, we give ourselves;
May we live with generous hearts, with open hands. Amen
by Joanna Harader http://spaciousfaith.com/
*********************
What we give in love is received in love.
By Alison Brookins
Benedictions
A benediction is a blessing addressed to the community. The keywords “May God…” mark the pattern of benediction, and it extends to the congregation the hope and promise of God’s shalom. A benediction is sometimes accompanied by a gesture, such as hands raised and outstretched toward the congregation, or by inviting worshippers to extend their hands in a receptive posture. A closing prayer, addressed to God, is a lovely worship element, but it is not a benediction. Our hymnals typically mix benedictions and closing prayers all together, including in the ‘sending’ section of our blue hymnal, so you will want to select carefully.
Finding benedictions in our regular church worship resources:
Hymnal: A Worship Book, numbers 763-764, 766, 770, 772-774
Sing the Journey, numbers 157-165
Sing the Story, numbers 137 (Christmas), 140 (Epiphany), 167 (Lent), 153, 158-159, 175-176, 188, 195, 201 (anytime)
Examples of benedictions found elsewhere:
as water fills the ocean
so may you be filled
as the fire warms the hearth
so may you be warmed
as the earth supports the foundations of mountains
so may you be supported
and as the wind moves the grasses
so may you be moved
what you need is here
surrounding and enveloping you
yet sending you out
so go
and in the overflow of fullness
fill those you meet
with the candle you hold
kindle flame in those whose fire has gone cold
in the knowledge of your firm foundation
support one another
and with the nudging of the wind
move the world
one step closer
to the kindom
by Katie VanderHeide, written for the ordination of Alison Casella Brookins
*********************
May God bless you with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships,
So that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them
And to turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in this world,
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen.
A Franciscan Benediction
*********************
Go now to love in the face of hatred,
To forgive in the face of pain,
To live in the face of death.
From Reclaiming the Bible for a Non-Religious World, John Shelby Spong, 287
*********************
Take to the World
Go in peace to love and to serve
And let your ears ring long with what you've heard
And may the bread on your tongue leave a trail of crumbs
To lead the hungry back to the place that you are from
And take to the world this love, this hope and faith
And take to the world this rare, relentless grace
And like the three in one, know you must become
What you want to save 'cause that's still the way
He takes to the world
So go and go far, take light deep in the dark
Believe what's true He uses all, even you
By Derek Webb
*********************
One: From where we are to where you need us,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
One: From the security of what we know to the adventure of what you will reveal,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
One: To refashion the fabric of this world until it resembles the shape of your Reign,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
One: Because good things have been prepared for those who love God,
All: Jesus, now lead on.
A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 24
*********************
One: May God bless us;
may God keep us in the Spirit’s care
and lead our lives with love.
All: May Christ’s warm welcome
shine from our hearts
and Christ’s own peace prevail
through this and every day,
until greater life shall call. Amen.
A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 29
*********************
One: On our heads and our houses,
All: The blessing of God.
One: In our coming and going,
All: The peace of God.
One: In our life and believing,
All: The love of God.
One: At our end and new beginning,
All: The arms of God to welcome us and bring us home. Amen.
A Wee Worship Book, Wild Goose Worship Group, 66
*********************
May the Lord bless you and keep you;
May the Lord's face shine upon you and be gracious unto you;
May God give you grace never to sell yourself short;
Grace to risk something big for something good;
Grace to remember that the world is now
too dangerous for anything but truth and
too small for anything but love;
So may God take your minds and think through them;
May God take your lips and speak through them;
May God take your hearts and set them on fire.
Through the power of God who created us, who is redeeming us,
and whose holy presence refuses to leave us unchanged. Amen.
William Sloane Coffin, 2002
*********************
In Christ we experience our wholeness,
we are a new creation.
As you have received God’s grace,
go now and dare to reach out to others,
to help others reconcile and make new.
And the presence of God,
who is Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer,
will go with you.
Shaping Sanctuary: Proclaiming God's Grace in an Inclusive Church. ed. Kelly Turney
*********************
One: Creator God, worshipping you has satisfied us
like eating a peach dripping with juice.
All: Worshipping you has refreshed us
like being brushed by a breeze from the lake.
One: May our worship sustain us this week,
that we may live and work in the ways of your reign.
All: Amen.
from Liturgy for Life in the City, Celeste Grace Groff
*********************
With the help of God's grace, we will struggle for justice.
With the compassion of Christ, we will stand for what is true
With God’s abiding kindness, we will love even our enemies.
With the love of Christ, we will resist all evil.
With God’s unending faithfulness, we will work to build the beloved community.
from Litany of Resistance, Jim Loney
*********************
What you hold, may you always hold.
What you do, may you always do and never abandon.
But with swift pace, light step, and unswerving feet,
so that even your steps stir up no dust,
go forward securely, joyfully, and swiftly,
on the path of prudent happiness,
believing nothing, agreeing with nothing
which would dissuade you from this resolution
or which would place a stumbling block for you on the way,
so that you may offer your vows to the Most High
in the pursuit of that holiness and wholeness
to which the Spirit of God has called you.
Saint Clare of Assisi, modified from “Second Letter to Blessed Agnes of Prague”
*********************
May God deny you an easy peace,
and grant you instead, passion,
revolutionary passion that spills over into the world
in acts of compassion and love, justice and integrity.
Go in the spirit and way of Christ,
who is our strength, our passion, and our true peace.
Hymnal Supplement, published by Brethren Press, #1055
*********************
God’s blessing be upon us
as we leave and return changed to our homes.
May we strengthen and encourage one another
in our shared vision.
And may the blessing of our adventurous Creator God go with us.
And may the blessing of the Son,
who showed us how to live,
re-shape us.
And may the blessing of the dancing Spirit
joyfully enable us in our renewed living.
from Hope in God’s Future: Christian Discipleship in the Context of Climate Change
Report & Study Guide, Methodist Publishing 2009. http://third-space.org.uk/blog
