Balzac Pastoral Charge of the United Church of Canada
World Food Sunday October 15, 2023
Minister: Kelly Grittner
Prelude Jesus, Name Above All Names – arr. M. Hayes
Welcome and Announcements
Listen to the service here
Bulletin link
Hymn link
Sermon link
Minute for Mission – Listen here
Land Acknowledgement
“As we gather together, let us pause to remember that we live, work and worship on lands that are, by law, the unceded territories of the nations of Treaty 7. As Christ’s people, may we be people of love, of truth, and of reconciliation. May we live with respect on this land, and in peace and friendship with its people.
Lighting the Christ Candle – listen here
Won’t you stand, by me, Oh-oh stand by me, Oh stand, stand by me, stand by me.
The candle is lit.
“Forgive Me” Mary Oliver , Blue Horses, 2014, Penguin Press.
“Angels are wonderful but they are so, well, aloof. It’s what I sense in the mud and the roots of the trees, or the well, or the barn, or the rock with its citron map of lichen that halts my feet and makes my eyes flare, feeling the presence of some spirit, some small god, who abides there.
If I were a perfect person, I would be bowing continuously. I’m not, though I pause wherever I feel this holiness, which is why I’m so often late coming back from wherever I went. Forgive me.”
Hymn It Only Takes a Spark” VU 289
Call to Worship
Like a storm surging, soaring over a warm ocean,
like the blush of red coming to autumn’s orchards,
like the voices of those demanding dignity and justice,
God’s presence is experienced.
Pay attention to God’s word, O people.
Give yourself to God’s spirit, O children of god.
May we know God’s transforming presence among us today.
Opening prayer (in unison)
We come to worship you , Creator God, who created us in
goodness.
In the midst of the evils and greed of the world, remind us of your goodness.
We come to worship you, O God, who created a world of abundance.
When people live as if there is only scarcity, remind us of your abundance.
We come to worship you, loving God, who created a world for peace and compassion.
When we experience and witness violence, show us the way back to your peace and healing. Amen
Hymn “Will You Come and Follow Me” VU 567
Childrens Chat Michelle Kotelko
Hymn “Draw the Circle Wide” MV 145
Psalm 23 “The Lord’s My Shepherd” VU 747
Sharing of scripture – Deuteronomy 26 1-11
Reflection “The Bread Story” – Listen to the sermon here
Dedication of the Offering
Gracious God, bless our gifts of hearts and lives.
Bless our offerings.
Multiply what our gifts can do.
Use our gifts to end inequity and oppression.
Use us for your purpose in the world. Amen.
Prayers of the people & the Lords 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, the power and the glory,
forever and ever. Amen
Hymn “We Are Pilgrims” VU 595
PILGRIM PRAYER (Joyce Rupp & Tom Piefer)
Guardian of my soul,
guide me on my way this day,
keep me safe from harm.
Deepen my relationship with you,
your Earth, and all your family.
Strengthen your love within me
that I may be a presence of your peace
in your world. Amen
BLESSINGS FOR THE JOURNEY
Live simply
Love generously
Care deeply
Speak kindly
Leave the rest to God
As we go, may the blessings of God surprise
and surround us this day and always.
Postlude Change My Heart, Oh God -arr. M. Hayes
