BUC Worship Service – June 21, 2026
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Balzac United Church
Sunday June 21, 2026
Fourth Sunday After Pentecost
Guest Minister: Rev. Linda Hunter
Music Ministry Dr. Alex Shawn
Pianist: Michelle Johnston
Theme: Is There Only One Way?
When I was a little girl, visiting my grandmother in Ogema, Saskatchewan, we would always start the day off with Morning Devotionals. Today’s scripture reading (John 14:1-14) was one of her favourite passages of scripture. It reassured her that she was on the “right” path, while those who did not believe in Jesus, like Jewish people, were on the “wrong” path and would face dire consequences in the afterlife.
So simple. So easy. So black and white. Or is it?
Prelude Blessed Assurance B. Inman
Welcome and Announcements
Land Acknowledgement
Today, in an act of reconciliation, we honour the Treaty 7 peoples–which comprises the Siksika (Blackfoot), Kainai (Blood), Piikani (Peigan, Stoney-Nakoda and Tsuut’ina) nations. These Nations used this land for hunting grounds, as well as for sacred ceremonies and settlement areas. Their territories extend into southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, as well as northern Montana. We also honour the Metis peoples of this territory, Districts 5 and 6. We thank them for enriching this land by their presence and caring for the land as a sacred trust.
Lighting The Christ Candle
On this day, when we prepare to welcome new members into our faith community here at Balzac United Church, we are grateful for the light that they bring to us. Today, each of them will re-commit themselves to the vision of hope that is embodied in Christ. So, as we begin our worship service today, we light our Christ Candle to remind us once again of the path we have chosen to follow–the way of Christ.
Hymn Let Us Build a House MV 1
(verses 1/2/5)
Candles Of Joy And Concern
Passing The Peace Of Christ
In the early days of the Christian church, it was common practice for the people who gathered to Pass the Peace of Christ, often with a kiss on the cheek. It was an act of trust, signaling that all were welcome and all were safe in the circle of that gathered company of witnesses. Today, this ritual seems particularly appropriate as we prepare to formally welcome new members into our faith community.
We replicate the early church as we pause today to Pass the Peace of Christ with a handshake, a nod of the head or simply a warm smile.
The Peace of Christ be with you.
And also with you!
Reception Of New Members
Introduction Of The Candidates
The Covenant Promises
| Rev. Linda | Today, in a holy act of commitment, you are presenting yourself before this community, seeking to become a member of Balzac United Church. Is this your intention? |
| Candidates | This is my intention, through the grace of God |
| Rev. Linda | You have been a dedicated member of other faith communities and bring to us a rich array of gifts–your devotion to God, your commitment to the path of Jesus, your warm and generous heart. These are priceless gifts. I now ask you, before this gathered company of witnesses, are you offering these gifts to this faith community? |
| Candidates | I am, God being my helper |
| Rev. Linda | Do you promise to support the mission of this church, to participate in the Sacrament of Holy Communion as you are able and to uphold the core values of this loving community of faith? |
| Candidates | That is my solemn promise |
| Rev. Linda | (the congregation is invited to rise) Do you, the community of Balzac United Church, joyfully welcome these people into your circle of faith? |
| The Congregation | We welcome them, in the name of Jesus |
| Rev. Linda | Do you promise to hold them and each other in the embrace of God’s love, nurturing each other in times of difficulty and challenge, sharing laughter and joy in times of celebration, living in harmony and peace with one another as you move forward in faith? |
| The Congregation | That is the solemn promise we make today. |
The Prayer Of Jesus
Laying On Of Hands
The Handshake Of Welcome
Closing Prayer
Holy God, may our actions today remind us of the power of community. May those who have become members of Balzac United Church through this sacred covenant, feel the warmth of your love and of this community. May all of us move forward from this moment with a renewed sense of commitment to the mission of this church and the ministry of Jesus to which we have been called. AMEN
Hymn Draw the Circle Wide MV 145
Scripture Reading: John 14:1-14
Reflection: It’s not that simple!
Offering Invitation
Today you are invited to give a small portion of your resources to further the ministry of this church. Let us embrace the promise of love through the gifts of our offering–love for God and love for the world.
Our morning offering will now be received.
Offertory; Prelude by H. Purcell
Prayer Of Dedication
O God, bless the offerings we bring to you today. Through this offering, we dedicate ourselves to the work of ministry that you have placed before us. We are grateful for you, for one another, for our families and our friends and for this world you love so much. AMEN
Closing Hymn Deep in Our Hearts MV 154
The Blessing And Sending Forth
Having re-committed yourselves to the ministry of this church, Having welcomed new members into your midst. Having witnessed the power of community, I send you forth to transform the world.
Postlude The Power of Your Love arr. B. Inman