BUC Worship Service – November 30, 2025

Balzac United Church
November 23, 2025, 10:00am
Guest Minister: Rev. Linda Hunter
Music Ministry: Lee Dowan, Dr. Alex Shawn

Theme: Do Not Grow Weary in Doing What Is Right
As followers of Jesus, we often find ourselves in situations where our faith is
challenged by a world that disregards so many, especially those who are not
seen to contribute their fair share or who do not work hard enough. The
writer of the letter to the Thessalonians, for example, rants against those
who eat the bread of idleness. How are we to respond to his harsh words?

Prelude Here I Am to Worship arr. M. Hayes
The Introit Yahweh Be Praised MV#51
Welcome and Announcements
Service link
Bulletin link
Message Link
Choir Link

Land Acknowledgement
As we move ever deeper into the winter season in our part of the world, we
take a moment to marvel at the resiliency and strength of the Indigenous
peoples who lived on this land, well before furnaces and electricity. The
nights would have been cold and frigid, but Indigenous peoples found a way
not just to survive, but to thrive through their ceremonies and their art. We
honour them today by acknowledging that we share Treaty 7 territory with
them and with the Metis Nation, District 5 and 6.

Lighting of the Christ Candle
Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there.”
Today we light our Christ Candle as sign and symbol of Christ’s presence
among us, uplifting us so that we do not grow weary in doing what is right
and just in this world. (the Christ Candle is lit)

The Call to Worship
Welcome in the name of the One who calls us to gather.
Welcome as a participant in this community of faith.
May the One who calls us be praised.
May our community be strengthened.
Let us sing and pray and share in worship today.
Opening Hymn This is the Day VU #412
Candles of Joy, Concern and Sorrow
Opening Prayer (in unison)
Loving God, our faithful companion on the journey we call life, we
are blessed to have you with us on our journey. Deepen our desire to
know you better and to hear the words of Jesus. We know you care
for us and we know that you love us. Accept the worship we offer to
you this day. AMEN
Hymn As the Deer Pants for the Water VU #766
(based on Psalm 42)
A Time of Child Honouring “And God Created Squash”
Written by Martha Whitmore Hickman
Illustrated by Giuliano Ferri
Scripture Reading Second Thessalonians 3:6-13
Reflection Courageously Preaching Against the Text
Hymn It Only Takes a Spark VU #289
Offering Invitation
During our offering time this morning, you are invited to think of your own
journey of faith, your call and your response. As part of your response, you
are invited to contribute to the ministry of this church in whatever way is
appropriate for you. Our morning offering will now be received.
Offertory Rain Down arr. M. Hayes
Prayer of Dedication
Loving God, these offerings are part of our response to your call, but
they are only one part. We also respond through visits and phone
calls, notes written, food shared and prayers on behalf of others. We
ask you to bless our offerings and multiply them by your grace.
AMEN
Prayers of the People
The Prayer of Jesus
Closing Hymn Go, Make a Diff’rence MV #209
The Blessing And Sending Forth
As you return to the world,
carry with you the spirit of Christ.
Cherish him and his teachings.
Share his generous love with neighbours, near and far. AMEN
Postlude Lord of the Dance arr. M. Hayes