Worship Planning Tools - May 2023

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Worship Resources 7 May 2023

Fifth Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 2:2-10 Become Living Stones Additional Scriptures Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16; John 14:1-14; Acts 7:55-60; Doctrine and Covenants 163:2a, 3a

Preparation The Reflection and Call to Worship need different stones in a basket, enough for the people in the congregation to choose one. The Leader has three empty baskets next to the podium. People speaking need to be well-prepared to participate in this activity. Make sure Persons 1a, 2a, and 3a stay seated while the members of the congregation place their stones in baskets. Persons 1a and b, 2a and b, and 3a and b need to sit around the congregation – not the six together. The Leader stays at the podium. People online can use Chat to say which basket to place their stone. It would be a good idea for the Leader to give a brief outline to the congregation to help prepare them for this activity.

Prelude Welcoming Hymn “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” CCS 87 OR “Sizohamba Naye/We Will Walk with God” sing several times CCS 377 Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. Or sing along with the vocal recording found on Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings.

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns Call to Worship

As they are able, participants move to the front and choose a stone and then sit back down. Be prepared to take stones to those who cannot come forward. Persons 1a, 2a, and 3a in the Reflection do not get a stone.

Reader 1: Doctrine and Covenants 163:2a Reader 2: Doctrine and Covenants 163:3a

Hymn “Onward to Zion” OR “Summoned by the God Who Made Us”

CCS 390 CCS 330

Invocation Response Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:17-30 Communion Talk Hymn of Preparation “Blessed Is the Body and the Soul” OR “Welcome, Jesus, You Are Welcome”

CCS 238 CCS 277

Invitation to Communion All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

Blessing and Serving of the Bread and Wine For guidelines on the Lord’s Supper, including online participation, see www.OurMinistryTools.org

Prayer for Peace Hymn of Peace “O for a World” OR “For the Healing of the Nations” Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer Loving Creator,

CCS 379 CCS 297

Help us listen to your call to shape us – to become living stones. Our individual calling fits together with other individual callings to build the Peaceable Kingdom. It takes discipline, accuracy, hard work, community unity, and time to develop giftedness.

Help us to hear the call to move forward to a transformative calling and action.

We cannot do it alone; we need each other. Just as a stone supports others, so do we require the support of each other. Just as the individual is called, so is the community called to be a beacon of light for others to move toward Jesus, the Peaceful One. Grant us peace while we try to listen. Amen.

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:2-10 Reflection See script below, which ends with: After all are seated.

Congregation: Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Homily Based on 1 Peter 2:2-10

Disciples’ Generous Response Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn “Can Steel and Stone and Swirling Spire” CCS 281 OR “Take My Life, That I May Be/Toma, oh Dios, mi voluntad” CCS 610 Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Statement We are committed to being a cornerstone of peace. Giving our tithes helps us build the Peaceable Kingdom in such a way that extends beyond the borders of our own sacred space. It is an expression of love and discipline that promotes the worth of all persons and embraces the worth of all creation.

During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

The first Sunday of the month focuses the Disciples’ Generous Response on Abolish Poverty, End Suffering, which includes Oblation ministry.

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at www.CofChrist.org/disciples-generous-response tools.

Closing Hymn “Living Stones” OR “Make Us, O God, a Church That Shares”

CCS 279 CCS 657

A Psalmist’s Prayer In you, O Lord, we seek refuge…You are indeed our rock and fortress…Our times are in your hand…

-Psalm 31:1a, 3, 15a, adapted Go with us and help shape us into living stones for the blessing of all creation.

Amen.

Response

sing twice “Lead Me, Lord” OR “O Lord, Hear My Prayer”

CCS 450 CCS 192

Postlude _________________________

Reflection Three pairs of people are ready to minister: Persons 1a and 1b; 2a and b; 3a and b.

Person 1b has a large sign that says, “HOMELESS.” Person 2b has a large sign that says, “LOST.” Person 3b has a large sign that says “DIFFERENT.” The pairs sit close to each other in the congregation. Persons 4, 5, and 6 are also ready to minister.

Person 1a: stands He's dirty and smells. I don't want him here.

Person 1b walks to the front and holds up the HOMELESS sign.

Leader: I don't know what to do.

Person 1a sits back down.

Person 2a: stands She lives a life that is downright wrong. I don't want her here.

Person 2b walks to the front and holds up the LOST sign.

Leader: I don't know what to do.

Person 2a sits back down.

Person 3a:

stands

She's different than me. She looks different and thinks different. I don't want her here.

Person 3b walks to the front and holds up the DIFFERENT sign.

Leader: I don't know what to do.

Person 3a sits back down.

Person 4: I know what to do.

Walks up front and gives Person 1b their stone.

Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Stands by the three, 1b, 2b, and 3b.

Person 5: I know what to do.

Walks up front and gives Person 2b their stone.

Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Stands by the three, 1b, 2b, and 3b.

Person 6: I know what to do.

Walks up front and gives Person 3b their stone.

Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Stands by the three, 1b, 2b, and 3b.

Leader: You're right! You're right!

Gets three baskets and gives one to each of the three, 1b, 2b, and 3b. To the congregation: You are all welcome to come up and place your living stones in a basket of your choice.

Participants walk to the front and place a stone in one of the baskets.

Please come and stand with the marginalized, the oppressed, and those in need.

Don't go back to your chairs yet.

Hopefully, all but 1a, 2a, and 3a will participate. Once everybody is in front: Person 1b: I know what to do. Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Walks down and gives their basket to Person 1a.

Person 2b: Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Walks down and gives their basket to Person 2a.

Person 3b: Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Walks down and gives their basket to Person 3a.

Leader:

Please welcome the persons now holding baskets. Then return to your seats.

After all are seated.

Congregation: Jesus, your song is awake in my soul.

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Year A – Letters Fifth Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 2:2-10 Exploring the Scripture Scholars are not sure of the authorship of this letter, even though it is credited to Peter. Regardless, the letter contains essential instruction for new converts, describing several images for the church. It is addressed to a mixed group of Jews and Gentiles scattered throughout northern regions of Asia Minor.

The first image involves seeing those being addressed as newborn infants. The metaphor of a new birth extends to being baptized after conversion to the announced good news. The longing of a newborn is compared to the readers’ longing for “spiritual milk” (v. 2). The author counsels that adopting the image of an innocent, trusting infant is the place to start, “to taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8).

Second, it suggests that Christians are like living stones—building blocks in building God’s spiritual house. This idea has a direct connection to the Psalmist’s description: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the very head of the corner” (Psalm 118:22). God views this cornerstone as precious, and the hearers are told to rest their faith on this solid foundation of Jesus Christ. The spiritual house or temple image provided a way for new believers to imagine being part of the Christian body, a body built by God, not human origin.

The reference to a “spiritual house” is more than a physical building. Hearers are encouraged to fashion themselves into a community of disciples who accept the good news of Jesus Christ and embody their belief.

While they may still feel like newborn infants, the author uses terms that were often found in the Hebrew Bible to describe Israel: “a chosen race,” “a royal priesthood,” “a holy nation,” and “God’s people,” to explain the new Christian movement. Such a movement centered in Jesus Christ is closely connected to Jesus’ religious heritage, which provided credibility to their new reality. These new Christians were recognized and loved by God. The passage ends with a reminder that it is God who “called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” Only God’s presence among them will help transform these newborn babes into God’s people of faith.

Central Ideas 1. New believers in Jesus Christ can be compared to infants who need to begin with “milk” and grow in trust and understanding.

2. Jesus as the chief cornerstone provides the foundation for Christians to become “living stones,” shaping a spiritual house.

3. Being “living stones” involves embodying the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Questions for the Speaker 1. How does the image of a newborn align with your understanding of being a disciple of Jesus?

2. What do you remember about being a new disciple of Jesus Christ? What are some of the ways you have transformed since then?

3. How might we share our faith with those seeking? With new disciples?

4. Describe or draw your image of being part of God’s spiritual house.

5. When has your congregation or community felt like a spiritual house? Describe those feelings.

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A, Letters Fifth Sunday of Easter 1 Peter 2:2–10 NRSV Gathering Welcome Today is the fifth Sunday of the Easter Season. The Easter Season lasts fifty days and concludes with the Day of Pentecost.

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Gracious God and precious friend, extend your peace throughout creation in flowing ribbons of love. Let all who seek you know your presence and be moved to greater acts of peace in their communities. May they know your infinite tenderness and intimate friendship as they seek greater knowledge of you. Bring your presence to those struggling with loneliness and uncertainty, that they may understand your desire for their companionship and reach out to you in love. Be with those who feel weak and useless, that they would find strength in their trials and the confidence to share this strength with others.

Above all, we pray that your peace, love, and grace would impress on our hearts the desire to live in service to you. As we go forward from this sacred place, may we carry your peace and love with us to all the corners of the world. In Jesus’s most precious name we pray. Amen.

—Molly Bagley

Spiritual Practice Centering Prayer Centering prayer is a method of meditation used by Christians to sit in silence with God. This prayer helps us experience God’s presence within us.

This day we will focus on the word rejoice.

Slowly read the following instructions: Sit with relaxed posture and close your eyes. We will spend three minutes in centering prayer.

Breathe in a regular, natural rhythm.

As you breathe in and out, say the word rejoice in your mind.

Breathe in and out, focusing only on your word.

When we are done, we will sit for two minutes in silence, eyes closed, listening to the silence.

When time is up, share these closing instructions:

Offer a brief word of thanks to God. Take a deep breath and open your eyes when you are ready.

Sharing Around the Table 1 Peter 2:2–10 NRSV Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation—if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Come to him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God’s sight, and like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it stands in scripture: “See, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

To you then who believe, he is precious; but for those who do not believe, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the very head of the corner,” and “A stone that makes them stumble, and a rock that makes them fall.”

They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

This letter is addressed to a mixed group of Jews and Gentiles scattered throughout northern Asia Minor. It contains essential instruction for new converts, offering several images (newborn infants, living stones, a spiritual house) for the people of the church.

The hunger of a newborn is compared to the readers’ longing for “spiritual milk.” The author counsels that adopting the image of an innocent, trusting infant is the place to start to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” The text suggests that Christians are like living stones— building blocks in constructing God’s spiritual house. This idea connects directly to the psalmist’s description: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone” (Psalm 118:22 NRSV). God views this cornerstone as precious, and the hearers are told to rest their faith on this solid foundation of Jesus Christ.

The spiritual house, or temple, image provided a way for new believers to imagine being part of the Christian body—a body built by God, not of human origin. The reference to a

“spiritual house” is more than a physical building. Hearers are encouraged to fashion themselves into a community of disciples who accept the good news of Jesus Christ and embody their belief.

While they still may feel like newborn infants, the author uses terms that often were found in the Hebrew Bible to describe Israel: “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, [and] God’s own people” to explain the new Christian movement. Such a movement centered in Jesus Christ is connected closely to Jesus’s religious heritage, which provided credibility to new believers. These new Christians were recognized and loved by God. The passage ends with a reminder that it is God who “called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” Only God’s presence among them will help transform these newborn babes into God’s people of faith. The same is true for us.

Questions 1. How does the image of a newborn fit with your understanding of being a disciple of Jesus?

2. How have you received “spiritual milk” on your journey as a disciple? How has it helped you to grow in understanding of and relationship with God?

Sending Generosity Statement Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

—Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

This offering prayer for the Easter Season is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: God of rejoicing, we share our gifts joyfully and with thanksgiving in response to the generous gifts you have given us. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others that they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 197, “Lord, Have Mercy” Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children You will need: Jenga blocks Lincoln Logs, or some other type of building block collection of other random items Invite all participants to use the materials to build a strong and stable structure. Tell them before they begin that they will have three minutes to complete their structure and give them reminders when there is a minute and when there are thirty seconds remaining to build.

Once the time is up, comment on each participant’s building, praising their creations.

Then ask: How did you decide what pieces to include in your structure? How did you determine which pieces not to use? How did you determine how it would look? (Affirm all answers.)

In today’s scripture, we are told that we can be built into spiritual beings who live like Jesus. Just like you had to make decisions as you built your structure, we have to make decisions about how we will build ourselves.

What are some things that can help you make wise decisions as you build yourself?

(Affirm all answers.)

Thank you all so much for your wise answers. I look forward to seeing how you each continue to build yourselves!

Allow participants to knock down structures if they wish before returning to their seats.

Worship Resources 14 May 2023

Sixth Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 3:13-22 Declare Hope Additional Scriptures Psalm 66:8-20, John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, Doctrine and Covenants 161:3a

Preparation Bring a ball of colorful yarn for the Call to Worship.

Prelude Centering Hymn “Come Away from Rush and Hurry” OR “Come and Find the Quiet Center”

CCS 83 CCS 151

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns Call to Worship Leader:

I have a ball of yarn. I'm going to throw it out to you.

After you catch it, grab hold and throw it away from you to somebody else. Keep holding onto the yarn. Soon, we'll have a web of yarn connecting us together.

You might need somebody to help facilitate this. It'll be chaotic but fun. Once the web is formed read the scripture.

Read Doctrine and Covenants 161:3a If possible, continue holding the web through the hymn and prayer before collecting the yarn.

Hymn of Community “Weave” OR “Help Us Accept Each Other”

Invocation

CCS 327 CCS 333

Response Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer: "An Awakening" When the sun shatters his own golden sword, And the moon stops whispering at night, You will stand at the edge of the living dawn With music in your eyes.

And you'll sing softly with the breaking tide.

And her grasp will carry you through.

You will hear that someone is watching you, And listening to your song.

You must stand as gently as a falling leaf, As clear as ice on the bough.

You will walk together and your touch be true, With faith to pierce the mist Then you'll know heaven and earth as one, For your dust was sculpted by God. And you'll come to know that all you see Was with you all along.

It was with you all along.

-Debra Bruch, used with permission For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 3:13-22 Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn “Restless Weaver” OR “We Wait in Hope for the Lord”

CCS 145 CCS 267

Sharing in the Spoken Word Based on 1 Peter 3:13-22

Hymn of Reflection “Alleluia! Hear God’s Story” OR “God Is Calling” CCS 172

CCS 271

Reflection: "All Tied Up" One summer I needed to do some work in the dog yard, potentially dangerous to my dogs. To keep them safe, I tied them to different apple trees in my orchard. They do NOT like to be tied up! However, they handled the situation quite differently.

Frodo whined a lot and became rather frustrated. Near the end of my project, I noticed that she had wrapped herself tighter and tighter around the tree and was absolutely

miserable. She ended up not being able to move hardly at all. Pippin, on the other hand, didn't cry. He played for a while with an apple and branches that were hanging down. It was fun watching him cat-like bat a branch and then try to bite a bobbing apple! Then he lay in the sun and slept.

When I let them loose, Frodo was tired and unhappy. Pippin was rested and ready to go, go, go!

Sometimes we find ourselves in situations we don't like. How we handle it, though, makes all the difference! We can be unhappy and frustrated and whine a lot. We can wrap ourselves in our own unhappiness to the point that we can't do anything at all. Or we can play within the boundaries of the unpleasant situation. We can find something positive to help us see it through. Then when it's over, we can go, go, go!

It seems that when we whine too loudly during unhappy situations, we can't hear God trying to help us.

Listen! God's probably telling us to chew through the rope!

-Debra Bruch, used with permission

Disciples’ Generous Response Hymn of Generosity “Bear Each Other’s Burdens” OR “Can We Calculate Our Giving”

CCS 374 CCS 617

Video: "Be Generous of Spirit” Rick Sarre offers easy to remember, straightforward advice for living a generous life in this Disciples' Generous Response moment from the "Witness the Word," March, 2021 release. 2:19 minutes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hM_IVE05h84 Statement During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at www.CofChrist.org/disciples-generous-response tools.

Closing Hymn “Creator of the Intertwined”

CCS 344

OR “Go Now Forth into the World”

CCS 646

Benediction Sending Forth Leader: Congregation: Leader: Congregation: ALL:

Postlude

God is the Great Weaver of Life.

Jesus is our hope.

The Holy Spirit moves among us.

We are here for each other.

Be with us, God, as we declare hope to a world in need.

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Year A – Letters Sixth Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 3:13-22 Exploring the Scripture This letter is written to people who are being persecuted. We do not know the reasons for the persecution; ethnicity, nationality, religious beliefs, economic status, or all of them. Despite their circumstances, the letter is a call to faith and hope as they live into their baptism and Christian discipleship. The text tells readers to be prepared to speak of their faith.

The letter tells us that Christ sets the standards for acceptable suffering for doing God’s will. Christ is our example, and it is to Christ that our lives point. Even amid tragedies, we cannot be separated from the salvation God has given us in Christ. This text calls all those who follow Jesus Christ to bear witness of God’s love. Disciples do this even when one believes the words and actions may not be heard or accepted. They do this even when the person speaking words of hope may be ridiculed and cause a disruption in relationships.

It is one matter to confess Jesus Christ as the one you follow; it is another to confess the teachings of Jesus Christ when it brings suffering on yourself and others. “Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? (v. 14). But even if you do suffer doing what is right, you are blessed (v. 15). The author of the letter is not sending people with the mandate to offend. The author says, “Do not be fearful (silent), but in gentleness and humility, use your voice for the voiceless.

Looking at the life of Christ and the stories in the scriptures of how Jesus treated people, we see an example of how to “do what is good.” He interacted and spoke to people with intentional regard for their positions in society. He engaged leaders, rulers, teachers, fishers, farmers, merchants, water bearers, scribes, untouchables, and holy leaders. He spoke for the lives of some. He questioned the teachings and behaviors of others, and he offered wholeness to all.

The summons for today is, “Always be ready to make an accounting for the hope that is in you.”

Central Ideas 1. Speaking for those without a voice is our calling as disciples.

2. We respond faithfully, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to our best understanding of God’s call. (Enduring Principle, All Are Called)

Questions for the Speaker 1. When have you shared the “hope that is in you” with another person?

2. When have you experienced persecution? Who supported your voice or spoke for you?

3. Who are the persecuted in your (congregation) area (city, town, circle of influence)?

How can you (the congregation) be a voice for them?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A, Letters Sixth Sunday of Easter 1 Peter 3:13–22 NRSV Gathering Welcome Today is the sixth Sunday of the Easter Season. The Easter Season lasts fifty days and concludes with the Day of Pentecost.

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Holy One, we thank you for the gift of peace that you left us as you promised so long ago. But Lord, we struggle with maintaining the peace within.

The media of today bombard us with so much negativity that it is hard to not worry about our world. At this moment, on this day, we want to set aside our worries and rely on you for internal peace.

We want to strive for peace in our relationships, peace in our communities, and peace in this world. Help us, Lord. Help us stay in tune with your presence, your peace. Our prayer, Lord, is for your peace to remain within and spread afar. This we pray in Jesus’s name. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Centering Prayer Centering prayer is a method of meditation used by Christians to sit in silence with God. This prayer helps us experience God’s presence within us.

This Easter Day we will focus on the word rejoice.

Slowly read the following instructions: Sit with relaxed posture and close your eyes. We will spend three minutes in centering prayer.

Breathe in a regular, natural rhythm.

As you breathe in and out, say the word rejoice in your mind.

Breathe in and out, focusing only on your word.

When we are done, we will sit for two minutes in silence, eyes closed, listening to the silence.

When time is up, share these closing instructions: Offer a brief word of thanks to God, take a deep breath, and open your eyes when you are ready.

Sharing Around the Table 1 Peter 3:13–22 NRSV Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.

For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil. For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit, in which also he went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison, who in former times did not obey, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, during the building of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were saved through water. And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you—not as a removal of dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him.

This letter is written to people who are being persecuted for their beliefs. Not only do they not conform to the established culture, but they are a threat to the status quo and the power it brings to make the rules. This letter is a call to faith and hope as they live into their baptism and Christian discipleship. It calls all those who follow Jesus Christ to be prepared to speak of their faith and to bear witness of God’s love. Christ is our example, and it is to Christ that our lives point.

Even in today’s world, this is a tall order, for it is one thing to confess Jesus Christ as the One you follow; it is another to confess and live the teachings of Jesus Christ when it brings suffering on yourself and others.

The letter’s author is not sending the people out with the mandate to spread their beliefs regardless of whom they might offend. To the contrary, the author instructs the members of this newly forming community to do everything “with gentleness and reverence” and with a clear conscience. Likewise, Christ does not send us to offend, but to live in a way that brings honor to God. Looking at the life of Christ and the stories in the scriptures of how Jesus treated people, we see an example of how to “do what is good.” Jesus interacted and spoke to people with intentional regard for their positions in society. He engaged leaders, rulers, teachers, fishers, farmers, merchants, water bearers, scribes, untouchables, and holy leaders. He spoke up for some. He questioned the teachings and behaviors of others, and he offered wholeness to all.

We, too, are encouraged to “always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an account of the hope that is in you”…not just with our words, but with our lives.

Questions 1. When have you suffered or experienced persecution for “doing the right thing?” Who supported your voice or spoke for you?

2. How does your life (words and actions) share the “hope that is in you” with others?

3. Who are the persecuted in your area, city, town, circle of influence? How can you be a voice for them?

Sending Generosity Statement Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

—Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

This offering prayer for the Easter Season is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: God of rejoicing, we share our gifts joyfully and with thanksgiving in response to the generous gifts you have given us. May the offerings we share bring joy, hope, love, and peace into the lives of others that they might experience your mercy and grace. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 188, “I Need Thee Every Hour” Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children Today’s scripture reminds that we all will experience suffering at some point. Sometimes we suffer to show love, just as Jesus did. However, it is important to remember that unnecessary suffering is not God’s will. This means that when we see suffering in the world, we should not assume it was caused by God. We should know that it makes God sad.

I want to offer a prayer for the suffering in the world. But, before I do, I want us to hold our arms in front of us like we are holding a big beach ball. While I pray, I want you to keep your arms like this and pretend you are giving the world a hug. During the prayer, I will offer some silence. During that time, if you’d like, say a prayer in your head for the world you pretend to hold in your arms.

Offer a prayer for the suffering in the world, be sure to include some silent spaces throughout.

Worship Resources 21 May 2023

Seventh Sunday of Easter Ascension of the Lord

Ephesians 1:15-23 Come to Know Christ Additional Scriptures Psalm 47, Luke 24:44-53, Acts 1:1-11, Doctrine and Covenants 161:3d

Prelude Gathering Hymn “Gather Us In” stanzas 1, 2, and 4 OR “Gather Your Children”

CCS 72 CCS 77

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns Call to Worship Today is Ascension Sunday. Catherine of Siena was instrumental in peacemaking during the Medieval Age. Living a life of prayer, in 1378, her secretary wrote down her words in a manuscript titled Dialogue. She wrote, "When my only-begotten Son returned to me forty days after his resurrection … he left your company and ascended to heaven…. On the day of his ascension the disciples were as good as dead, because their hearts had been lifted up to heaven along with my Son, who is Wisdom. So the angel said to them: 'Do not stay here, for he is seated at the Father's right hand.' When he had been raised on high and returned to me, his Father, I sent the Teacher, the Holy Spirit…. So though my Son's presence was no longer with you, his teaching – the way of which he made for you this lovely and glorious bridge – remained… the solid stones grounded in that teaching. First he acted, and from his actions he built the way. He taught you more by example than with words, always doing first what he talked about."1 May we worship this day as those who follow the Way and walk the path of the disciple.

1

Siena, Catherine of. "Dialogue (1378)." In In Her Words: Women's Writings in the History of Christian Thought. Edited by Amy Oden. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1994.

Hymn “There’s an Old, Old Path” OR “Take the Path of the Disciple”

CCS 244 CCS 558

Invocation Response Instead of a sermon, this service offers a series of creative writings. Many people can participate live, recorded, online or any combination that is technically possible.

Readings and Song Hymn: “O My People, Saith the Spirit” stanza 1 only

CCS 604

Poem: “To See” Finding my spot on the roof of the house Gazing into the night sky A quiet unlike any lazy afternoon Muted sounds slowly creeping in Not quite approaching conscious awareness Closing my eyes to the ancient fires filling the sky There appears a field In the field is a sea of faces people and animals, trees and plant life creatures who walk, run, slither, creep, fly creatures who swim Slowly, as I gaze, eyes closed there appears a spark of light light emanating from each each showing the fire that fills their form each blazing anew with glory the field an infinite expanse of light ancient light ancient fire Light filling my consciousness spilling, glowing, illuminating Light filling all time, all space, showing the path I choose Light showing all paths chosen Enough light To see -Dean L. Robinson, used with permission Hymn: “O My People, Saith the Spirit” stanza 2 only

CCS 604

Poem: “Filled with the Spirit” Read by individual people, the leader, and the congregation Leader: I have come to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

Reader 1:

Congregation: Leader: Reader 2:

Congregation: Leader: Reader 3:

Congregation:

I was a stranger and you took me in. I was hungry and you fed me. I was in prison and you visited me. I was naked and you clothed me. I was enmeshed in sin and you accepted and forgave me. I was alone and you invited me into your hearts and homes. I was caught in grief, my tears fell endlessly and you came and shed your tears with me.

Surely Zion is in our midst.

I have come to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

As a mother holds her children in love and care, I hold you.

As a mother nurtures and heals with love, I heal and nurture you. You are my children. The stars that shine in the night are but a pale reflection of the glories I have prepared for you in my house. You shall establish Zion for my creation.

It is the call that I have given you.

Zion is in our midst.

I have come to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

You are beings filled with my Spirit. Created first spiritually, every atom of your being, every atom of every physical thing, is filled with my Spirit. Call upon me and that Spirit within you hungers to hear as I continue to speak and reveal myself to you. Ask and I answer with that which you need. Knock and the door is opened so my Spirit can abide with you all your days.

Zion abides.

Leader: Reader 4:

I have come to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

Filled with the spirit, you are responsible for all that you have been given. Filled with my Spirit you are one. There are no differences separating you from each other in my eyes. Each of you are precious in my sight. Creation calls to you to clean up the mess you have made and care for what you have been given. Your agency has allowed you to ignore your responsibilities. Consequences come from choices, good and bad.

Congregation: Zion waits.

-Dean L. Robinson, used with permission Hymn: “O My People, Saith the Spirit” stanza 3 only Poem: “Aspiration” Jesus, may I walk with you?

Will you share your light with me?

The night is dark and shadowy sounds engulf me.

A spider's mist, unbroken, is whispering to my soul.

Its cold persuasion tells me not to go.

Jesus, I must walk this night.

Though my eyes are filled with sleep.

CCS 604

The road is steep and hidden forms creep by me.

I need to walk beside you, to feel your hand take mine.

And together, we will see the break of day.

-Debra Bruch, used with permission Hymn: “O My People, Saith the Spirit” stanza 4 only

CCS 604

Psalm Responsive Reading Leader:

Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with loud songs of joy.

Congregation: For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome, over all the earth.

Leader: God has gone up with a shout, with the sound of a trumpet.

Congregation: Sing praises to God, sing praises.

Leader: For God is over all the earth; sing praises with a psalm.

Congregation: God is over all the nations; sing praises!

-from Psalm 47, adapted

Song of Praise “Laudate Dominum” sing several times OR “Alleluia” sing several times

CCS 91 CCS 103

Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Poem: “Sanctuary” An enclave, retreat, cloister. A haven, home.

Called to be apart from the world, and yet, in the world.

Each seeks sanity in the midst of mindless avarice. Compassionate indifference.

Polarized righteousness. Political expediency.

Each seeks Sanctuary Who decides on the appropriate manner to deal with inequity.

Eternally poor in means and in spirit.

“Do this unto the least of these, my brethren, and you do it unto me”.

Who is a neighbor.

Who seeks Sanctuary Where is there a person willing to respond to the call to neighborhood.

Willing to open heart and home.

Give the means for anyone to find acceptance.

Acknowledgment of like humanity.

Willing to offer Sanctuary Is there a community where all are accepted, no matter means, no matter birth, no matter personal condition.

Is there a group of people able to look beyond learned limitations.

To see creation through the heart of the Creator.

To see. To offer

Sanctuary -Dean L. Robinson, used with permission

Sung Prayer “Lord, Prepare Me”

Sing at least twice; add an Amen at the end.

CCS 280

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Disciples’ Generous Response Poem: “Out of the Darkness” Out of the darkness I come with new energy, a new and fresh perspective.

Out of the darkness I come nourished by rest and an abiding love of God. Out of the darkness I come into the light of inspiration and vision.

Out of the darkness I come with gratitude for a patient God who invites me everyday into his presence.

Out of the darkness I come only to experience mercy and compassion, only to experience encouragement and empowerment, and to be sent forth into the world to share the great love of Christ.

Out of the darkness I come.

-Bruce Crockett, used with permission Statement During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at www.CofChrist.org/disciples-generous-response tools.

Closing Hymn “Shalom chaverim”

CCS 653

May be sung as a 3-part round.

OR “Arise, Your Light Is Come!”

CCS 635

Pastoral Prayer Scripture of the Path: Doctrine and Covenants 161:3d Sending Forth: “Dandelions” You are the dandelions of the Holy Spirit Glowing, reflecting the glory of the Son ‘til your life is a seedy halo of possibilities.

The Breath of God moves over the face of creation the seeds of your testimony, your lives, are carried and planted in yards and lands ever farther from you.

The eternal movement of God's breath carrying the seeds, the testimonies of lives sowed; lives shared; The Spirit breathes -Dean L. Robinson used with permission

Postlude

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Years A,B,C - Letters Seventh Sunday of Easter, Ascension of the Lord

Ephesians 1:15-23 Exploring the Scripture Ephesians was written around the same time as Matthew and Luke’s gospels, 85-90 CE. Scholars are not sure who wrote this letter. The letter is written in a style that reflects the teachings and traditions of the apostle Paul.

One of the central themes of Ephesians is in reconciling the Jews and Gentiles in the worshiping community. This passage from the first chapter is in the form of a prayer. It begins by offering thanks for the people. The writer then prays for intercession that their faith might be increased.

The prayer then expresses the nature of Christ and the church.

Although the letter’s recipients are unknown to the author, they are commended for their faithfulness to God and one another. The author prays a blessing that they might experience a deepening relationship with God. As they grow in faith, they might increase in hope, wisdom, and knowledge of Christ. In this way, they are more fully able to live as the church—the fullness of Christ in the world.

Christ reigns beyond the circumstances, authorities, and boundaries of the world. The fullness of Christ is expressed by the church living as a reflection of Christ. The church is called to overcome divisions, boundaries, and walls that separate, marginalize, and demean individuals and communities. Christ’s reign extends beyond this time and is for all time. The church reflects the presence of Christ in the world today even as it envisions the peaceable reign of Christ in the future. Community of Christ’s Mission Initiatives provide avenues for the church to live out its call to embody Christ more fully in the world. The Mission Initiatives help prepare the way for the reign of Christ to be made real in neighborhoods, towns, and villages.

Christ gave his life in service of God’s purposes. At the Ascension, Christ takes his place as the loving, serving head of the church. Similarly, the church is called to give itself in service to the restoring purposes of God. The church is called to live in harmony with all creation choosing reconciliation over division, unity over individualism, and community over self-interest. In this way, all are included in the peaceable Reign of Christ.

Central Ideas 1.

2.

3.

4.

We grow in wisdom and understanding as we deepen our relationship with the Divine.

There is great hope in living and serving as a disciple.

The church is called to act and serve as the fullness of the body of Christ in the world.

Christ and his mission are greater than earthly divisions, boundaries, or borders.

Questions for the Speaker 1. How do you continually deepen your relationship with God? 2. When have you experienced great hope in your life as a disciple?

3. In what ways is the church called to overcome divisions, boundaries, and systems that lessen community?

4. Which of your congregation’s ministries shine as the body of Christ in the world?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A, Letters Seventh Sunday of Easter, Ascension Sunday Ephesians 1:15–23 NRSV (A, B, C) Gathering Welcome Ascension Day is when Jesus hikes with his disciples to a mountaintop. There he blesses them and tells of the coming Holy Spirit before he ascends into heaven.

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

Lord, Creator of all life, we are aware of your presence in this space and in our hearts.

Let us pray in silence.

Thank you for this time of holiness. We gather in worship and praise for all you have given, shared, and done. We gather in peace, seeking your peace.

Let us pray in silence.

Grant us your grace. Forgive us for all we have left ungiven, unshared, undone.

Let us pray in silence.

Help us more fully understand the gift of your Son in our lives and to all people.

Let us pray in silence.

Open our hearts and minds. Connect us through our worship that we might deeply embrace the call of your kingdom as a congregation, mission center, and global faith community.

Let us pray in silence.

Lord, we thank you for all things. In Jesus’s name. Amen.

Spiritual Practice Jesus Prayer This prayer is an ancient spiritual practice from Orthodox Christianity. It is a way of connecting with the gracious spirit of Christ as we ask to receive his mercy.

The prayer comes from the scripture of the blind man calling Jesus to heal him.

Let your breath become slow and even.

I will speak the prayer aloud for the first few breaths, and then you will pray silently, repeating the phrases as you breathe:

As you breathe in pray, “Lord Jesus Christ.”

As you breathe out pray, “Have mercy on me.”

We will prayerfully repeat these words for two or three minutes.

Close with an “Amen.”

Invite people to share about this experience.

Resource: https://www.heraldhouse.org/products/yearning-for-god-discernment-andspiritual-practice-pdf-download?_pos=1&_sid=2331abd1d&_ss=r

Sharing Around the Table Ephesians 1:15–23 NRSV I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, and for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power.

God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

Sound the alarm! Ring the bells! Bring out the harps, lutes, and lyres! Give thanks to God! Today’s passage from the Letter to the Ephesians is preceded by a prayer, blessing God as the Giver of every spiritual blessing…and for the redemption we receive through Christ. It serves as a beautiful opening, setting the stage for the praise and supplication on behalf of the faith community.

Although the letter’s recipients are unknown to the author, they are commended for their faithfulness to God and one another. The author prays a blessing that they might experience a deepening relationship with God. As they grow in faith, they might increase in hope, wisdom, and knowledge of Christ. In this way, they are more fully able to live as the church—the ministry and message of Christ in the world.

The fullness of Christ is expressed by the church. The church, a reflection of the presence of Christ in the world today, is called and empowered to overcome divisions, boundaries, and walls that separate, marginalize, and demean individuals and communities.

Christ gave his life in service of God’s purposes. At the Ascension, Christ took his place as the loving, serving head of the church. Similarly, the church is called to give itself in service to the restoring purposes of God and to live in harmony with all creation. It is to choose reconciliation over division, unity over individualism, and community over self-interest. In this way, all are included in the peaceable reign of Christ.

Questions 1. How do you continually deepen your faith in Jesus Christ and your love for others?

2. If you were to write a prayer that blesses God, what would it say?

3. If you were to ask God for a blessing to strengthen your faith, what would it be?

Sending

Generosity Statement Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

—Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: God of wisdom and love, may the gifts we share be in response to the generous gifts you have given us. May the monetary offerings we give be received in love and used with wisdom. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 26, “Look at This Man, Born of God” Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children You will need: hearts cut from felt or paper In today’s passage, the author ties faith in Jesus to love of others. This lets me know that it is important to Jesus that we love one another, even when it is difficult. It is good to love people in our thoughts and hearts, but it is really important that our actions also show love for them.

I’m going to mention some people we should love, and I want to see if you can think of actions that can show we love them.

Parents (affirm all answers).

Siblings (affirm all answers).

Best friends (affirm all answers).

Teachers (affirm all answers).

People who are mean to us (affirm all answers).

People whom we think are annoying (affirm all answers).

People who beat us in a sport or game (affirm all answers).

Thank you all so much for your wonderful ideas! As you return to your seats, I will hand you a heart. When you hold this heart in your hand, remember to love others. Also remember that you are loved!

Worship Resources 28 May 2023

Day of Pentecost

I Corinthians 12:3b-13 We Are One, We Are Many Additional Scriptures Numbers 11:24-30; Psalm 104:24-34, 35b; John 7:37-39; Acts 2:1-21;

Doctrine and Covenants 18:5f, 6a

Prelude Choose music to symbolize the concept of “we are one, we are many.” Consider using music from many different cultures. Performance suggestion: invite all available and willing musicians in the congregation to prepare the prelude music all together or in various combinations. As much as possible, use all ages and skill levels.

The end of the instrumental prelude is an opportunity to include the sound of rushing wind. Sound files can be found free on the internet with a simple search. Slowly reduce the sound of the rushing wind and move directly into the Gathering Hymn.

Welcome Today in our worship we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit as recorded in Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament. We take note of the way the diverse crowd of people heard Peter’s explanation of what was happening in their own language thus creating new unity among them.

Blessings of Community Time Announcements, joys, and prayer concerns. Provide a microphone so speakers may be heard by those who are worshipping virtually. Remember students who are graduating or completing another year of school.

Call to Worship Psalm 104:24, 30-34, 35b These verses could be read in unison by the congregation or alternated between two or more readers.

Hymn of Praise “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing” OR “Wind Who Makes All Winds That Blow”

CCS 92 CCS 485

OR “Siyahamba’ Ekukhanyen’ Kwenkhos’/ We Are Marching in the Light of God

CCS 95

Invocation Response Pentecost Story - Scripture Reading: Acts 2:1-12 Suggestion: omit the list of locations in verses 9-11.

OR: Read the story of Pentecost from a children’s story Bible; for example: https://www.woodlakebooks.com/search/results/inventory/Whole-People-of-God/RelatedBooks/Lectionary-Story-Bible-Year-A.

Explanation of Pentecost The Day of Pentecost, celebrated 50 days after the Resurrection of Christ Jesus, marks the day when the disciples felt a renewed sense of connection with their risen Lord.

Pentecost occurred during one of three major Jewish festivals that caused many visitors to come to Jerusalem from all over the Mediterranean world. As the story unfolds, each person present could understand the preaching of the apostles, even though they spoke different languages. To many, this day represents the birth of the Christian church.

Suggestion: if equipment is available use a video such as “The Holy Spirit Comes,” https://youtu.be/KwJJJoSGw84 to tell the Pentecost story. Be sure to secure permission to show and potentially stream the video.

Pentecost Hymn “God Turned the Spirit Loose in Wind” OR “On Pentecost They Gathered” OR “As the Wind Song through the Trees”

CCS 484 CCS 483 CCS 42

Prayer for Peace Light the Peace Candle.

Prayer Patient God, You must be a patient God as you wait for your human creation to find pathways to peace in this world. We dream of a time when there will be peace; a time when the people and nations of the world will say “No! No more war!” Fighting is so much easier than the hard work of cooperation and peace. By your Holy Spirit grant us the courage to stop dreaming and get to work. Help us visualize a peaceful world, the Peaceable Kingdom that You created. And be patient with us as we seek to follow Jesus, the Peaceful One, in whose name we pray. Amen.

For additional ideas: Find this day’s Prayer for Peace service on the church’s website at www.CofChrist.org.

Scripture Reading Read by the speaker or another worshipper.

1 Corinthians 12:3b-13

Message Based on 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13

Hymn of Community “We Need Each Other’s Voice to Sing” OR “Weave” OR “Sizohamba Naye / We Will Walk with God” Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

CCS 324 CCS 327 CCS 327

Disciples’ Generous Response Statement When has the Disciples Generous Response been an act of unity in diversity in your worship? (Example: there is diversity in the amounts of money given but all amounts are gratefully received.) Allow at least one full minute for meditation.

During this time of a Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. We can tangibly express our gratitude to God through our offerings, who is the giver of all.

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes For additional ideas, see Disciples’ Generous Response Tools at www.CofChrist.org/disciples-generous-response tools.

Hymn in Celebration of the Holy Spirit “The Spirit of God like a Fire Is Burning” OR “Spirit, Open My Heart” OR “Lord, Who Views All People Precious” OR “Keep Your Lamp Trimmed and Burning”

Benediction Sending Forth …preach, exhort, and declare the truth with a loud voice; with a sound of rejoicing. Cry Hosanna! Hosanna! Blessed be the name of the Lord God! Pray always and I will pour out my Spirit upon you, and great shall be your blessing…

-Doctrine and Covenants 18:5f and 6a, adapted

Postlude

CCS 384 CCS 564 CCS 637 CCS 633

Sermon Helps Sermon Helps Year A - Letters Day of Pentecost

1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 Exploring the Scripture In the Jewish tradition, Pentecost celebrates the spring harvest marked by the Feast of Weeks starting fifty days after the Passover. In the Christian tradition, Pentecost is associated with the Holy Spirit descending in rushing wind and tongues of fire on the gathering recorded in Acts 2. It is the event that unifies the church for mission in diverse languages and cultures. The Spirit that enlivened creation is the same Spirit that unites the church in Christ’s mission throughout the world today.

Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth offers counsel for living the gospel in a multiethnic society. His words address issues, not unlike the ones we face in culturally diverse societies today. Unity amid ethnic and socioeconomic diversity was a challenge to the church in Corinth.

The concern between individual freedom and authority also challenged unity in the community.

Paul addressed these challenges by affirming diverse spiritual gifts for building up, unifying, and preparing the church for mission.

Paul helps shift understanding spiritual power as something controlled by the spiritually elite to gifts given to all by divine grace. Celebrating the beauty in diversity, multifaceted spiritual gifts are given to all for the common good. These gifts are given for building up the community’s spiritual condition, not for division or spiritual elitism based on the believer’s abilities. The list of gifts recognized in these verses begins with wisdom and knowledge, which the Corinthians valued. Other gifts include faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, and finally, gifts of tongues and interpretation of tongues. The Holy Spirit gives all not according to status or merit but in the Spirit’s freedom for unity and oneness that transcend differences.

In Roman society, the body politic metaphor was commonly used to urge members of the lower social class to accept and remain in their place. Many of the disciples Paul converted were from the middle and lower classes. Paul uses the metaphor to highlight the equality of the members. Diversity is not a threat to unity but a way of making unity possible through individual members’ contributions to the common good. Through baptism, the Spirit transforms diversity into the unified body of Christ. A member is a functioning organ in a living organism, not membership in an organization. Being baptized in the Holy Spirit is not a second-level baptism, nor is it identical with the baptism of water. The two are inseparably connected.

The imagery of the Eucharist further expresses oneness as continuing participation in the body of Christ. Counsel in Doctrine and Covenants 165:3a affirms Paul’s message to the church in Corinth for living in a Christ-centered community: “More fully embody your oneness and equality in Jesus Christ. Oneness and equality in Christ are realized through the waters of baptism, confirmed by the Holy Spirit, and sustained through the sacrament of Communion.

Embrace the full meaning of these sacraments and be spiritually joined in Christ as never before.”

Words of counsel shared by President Stephen M. Veazey at the close of World Conference 2019 affirm that “renewing covenant with Jesus Christ includes the call to live as peaceful

human beings who personify Christ’s peace.” The church as a Christ-centered community is called to unity and oneness that transcends differences. Such is an expression of Christ’s peace.

The pursuit of peace requires unity.

Central Ideas 1. The Spirit that enlivens creation and descended on the community through rushing wind and tongues of fire is the Spirit that unites the church in Christ’s mission throughout the world.

2. Diverse spiritual gifts are given in the Spirit’s freedom to build up and unify Christ’s body for the common good.

3. Baptism of water and Spirit and the sacrament of Communion spiritually form communities of unity and oneness in Christ that transcend differences.

Questions for the Speaker 1. Where do you see examples of unity in diversity as expressions of Christ’s peace in your community?

2. How are diverse spiritual gifts used to build up, unify, and prepare your congregation or community for Christ’s holistic mission?

3. Where do you see examples of diversity threatening unity? Where do you see examples of diversity making unity possible through individuals contributing to the common good?

Sacred Space – Small Group Resources Year A, Letters Day of Pentecost 1 Corinthians 12:3–13 NRSV Gathering Welcome Pentecost means “fiftieth day.” On the fiftieth day after Passover, Jews celebrated with a festival. For Christians, Pentecost marks the fiftieth and final day of the Easter season. At Pentecost, the Spirit moves among the disciples and crowds of onlookers. It is on Pentecost that disciples begin their Spirit-filled ministry. At Pentecost the Holy Spirit often is depicted as flames or a dove descending to the people.

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.

Light the peace candle.

One who breathes peace, you promised us the Holy Spirit, and today we celebrate its presence among us in this very place! Thank you for this Helper, whose closeness we sometimes see, sometimes feel, but always know.

As winds signal the change of seasons, as fire warms the cold, as breezes carry butterflies on their migration, as embers hold the hope of renewal, inspire us to bring peace wherever it is needed.

As peace flows in every language, open our eyes to the small corners in need of peace.

Open our arms to hold another, quiet our voices to listen in the commotion, and strengthen our shoulders for the hard work ahead.

In the gentle and just name of Jesus, Amen.

Spiritual Practice Centering Prayer Slowly read the following instructions: Sit with relaxed posture and close your eyes. We will spend five minutes in centering prayer.

Breathe in a regular, natural rhythm.

As you breathe in, name what you would like to receive. As you exhale, state what you would like to release (for example: breathe in peace, exhale fear).

Breathe in and out, focusing on what you are breathing in and what you are exhaling.

Watch the time for five minutes. Urge participants to continue the breath prayer for the full five minutes.

When time is up, share these closing instructions: Offer a brief word of thanks to God, take a deep breath, and open your eyes when you are ready.

Sharing Around the Table 1 Corinthians 12:3–13 NRSV Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says “Let Jesus be cursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit.

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.

For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.

In the Christian tradition, Pentecost is associated with the Holy Spirit descending in rushing wind and tongues of fire on the gathering recorded in Acts 2. It is the event that unifies the church for mission in diverse languages and cultures. The Spirit that enlivened creation is the same Spirit that unites the church in Christ’s mission throughout the world today.

Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth offers counsel for living the gospel in a multiethnic society. His words address issues, not unlike the ones we face in culturally diverse societies today. Unity amid ethnic and socioeconomic diversity was a challenge to the church in Corinth. The concern between individual freedom and authority also challenged unity in the community. Paul addressed these challenges by affirming diverse spiritual gifts for building, unifying, and preparing the church for mission.

Paul helps shift the understanding of spiritual power as something controlled by the spiritually elite to gifts given to all by divine grace so that “we hear, each of us, in our own native language” (Acts 2:8 NRSV). Celebrating the beauty in diversity, spiritual gifts are given to all for the common good. They are given for building the community’s spiritual condition, not for division or spiritual elitism based on the believer’s abilities. The Holy Spirit gives all not according to status or merit, but in the Spirit’s freedom for unity and oneness that transcends differences.

In Roman society, the body politic metaphor commonly was used to urge members of the lower social class to accept and remain in their place. Many disciples converted by Paul were from the middle and lower classes. Paul uses the metaphor to highlight the equality of members.

Diversity doesn’t threaten unity but makes unity possible through individual members’ contributions to the common good. Through baptism, the Spirit transforms diversity into the unified body of Christ.

Questions 1. Where do you see examples of diversity threatening unity? Where do you see examples of diversity making unity possible through individuals contributing to the common good?

2. How are diverse spiritual gifts used to build up, unify, and prepare the Body of Christ for mission?

3. How do you see your gifts being used for the good of the body?

Sending Generosity Statement Beloved Community of Christ, do not just speak and sing of Zion. Live, love, and share as Zion: those who strive to be visibly one in Christ, among whom there are no poor or oppressed.

—Doctrine and Covenants 165:6a The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response. Pray with me: God of passion and purpose, may your Spirit guide our decisions as we make Responsible Choices with our resources. May we be wise in spending, prudent in saving, and generous in sharing, that your purposes of healing, wholeness, and well-being might be extended to all. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn Community of Christ Sings 328, “With Gifts That Differ by Your Grace” Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Thoughts for Children

Thoughts for Children You will need a: picture of a dove lit candle (electric can be substituted) blanket God has promised that God’s Spirit always will be with us. We call this the Holy Spirit.

In the Bible we learn about God’s Spirit. Lots of words have described the Holy Spirit.

Dove (show picture)—How might the Holy Spirit be like a dove? Listen to what the children share and then say: When Jesus was baptized, the Spirit flew down like a dove and landed on Jesus.

Flame (light or turn on the candle)—How might the Spirit be like a flame? Give the children time to share their ideas, and then say: It flickered like a flame and touched everyone.

Comforter (let the children touch the blanket or wrap themselves in it)—How might the Spirit be like a comforter? Affirm any responses from the children, and then say: We feel as if we are wrapped in God’s love when we feel the Spirit with us.

Breath/wind (breathe out)—How is the Spirit like breath or wind? Give the children time to think of their answers, and then say: Sometimes the Spirit is like a mighty wind, and sometimes it is as quiet as Jesus breathing the Spirit upon the disciples. We can hear the Spirit in our breath, too. Cup your hands over your mouth and breathe into your hands. Listen…Can you hear the Spirit?

God promises the Holy Spirit always will be with us. Listen and watch for the Spirit in your life.