Balzac United Church
Order of Service – July 9, 2023
Western Heritage Sunday
Worship Leader: Larry Bilben
Music Ministry: Lee Dowan & Dr. Alex Shawn
Prelude: Down to the River to Pray -arr. M. Hayes
Welcome and Announcements
Service link
Bulletin link
Sermon link
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
We light this candle to remind us that when Jesus spoke to the Jewish people as written in John 8. Verse 12, he said: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will have the light of life and will never walk in darkness”. So, open your hearts today and let Jesus’ light the way for your life. Amen
Doxology: VU 541 – Praise God from Whom All Blessing Flow
Call to Worship
We gather together in worship and praise.
Praise to you, O God.
We gather together to learn about Christian traditions.
Praise to You, O God
We gather together to learn about our church’s traditions
Praise to You, O God.
We gather together in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ
Praise to You, O God
Opening Hymn:VU 675 – Will Your Anchor Hold
Opening Prayer
Hymn: VU 331 – The Church is One Foundation
Scripture Readings
Genesis Chapter 34: Verses 34 – 38
1 Corinthians Chapter 11 Verse 2
2 Thessalonians Chapter 2 Verse 15
Psalm Reading: Psalm 45 VU Page 769
Message: Traditions – Listen to the sermon here
Musical Presentation: Michelle Kotelko
“Just a Closer Walk with Thee” W. Stevenson – Listen to the song here
Prayer of Dedication of Gifts
Dear God, we dedicate our offerings to you and your service. Please accept the gift of time from our Board members, the gift of talent from our Choir, Sunday School Teachers, the gift of courage from the lay people of our congregation, and the gift of treasure from each one of us. We offer these gifts with love and gratitude for all your blessings. Amen
Pastoral Prayer followed by the Lord’s Prayer
Closing Hymn: VU 560 – O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude: Every Time I Feel the Spirit -arr. P. Choplin
