Sixth Sunday of Easter – May 5, 2024
The Order of Worship at 9:00 am
As always, we pray that worship at Redeemer is a blessing for you, even as your participation blesses us, whether we are gathering in the name of Christ in-person or online. As you are comfortable, we encourage you to sing the hymns and to sing or speak the congregational portions of the liturgy in bold type.
Please use the links available on the viewing page to let us know that you are worshiping with us, to submit any prayer requests, to let us know if you need help or are available to help a neighbor, and to continue giving financially to support the ongoing ministries of Redeemer.
This bulletin contains content protected by copyright and is provided only for you to participate in worship. Please delete or destroy any physical or digital copy of the material following the service.
WELCOME and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Standing HYMN 482 I Come with Joy
Text © 1971, rev. 1995 Hope Publishing Company, Carol Stream, IL 60188. All rights reserved. Used by permission. www.onelicense.net #725004
CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, creator of darkness and light, word of truth, wind sweeping over the waters. | Amen.
Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.
Kneeling or seated
God, our rock and refuge, we pour out our hearts before you. We have known you but have not always loved you. We have wounded one another and sinned against you. We have not always recognized the Holy Spirit dwelling in each of us. Remember your covenant. Renew your creation. Restore us, that we might proclaim your good news to all. Amen.
The voice of the Lord is upon the waters. God has spoken: The time of grace is now. In Jesus, the reign of God has come near. By the authority of ☩ Jesus Christ, your sins are forgiven. You are God’s beloved. | Amen.
Standing PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. | And also with you.
O God, you have prepared for those who love you joys beyond understanding. Pour into our hearts such love for you that, loving you above all things, we may obtain your promises, which exceed all we can desire; through Jesus Christ, your Son and
our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. | Amen
Please use the Prayer Request link on the webpage to submit your requests.
Seated
CHILDREN’S SERMON
THE READING Acts 10:44-48
While Peter shares the good news of Jesus with a Gentile soldier and his family, the Holy Spirit comes upon them. Recognizing that the Spirit works inclusively in the lives of both Jews and Gentiles, Peter commands that these Gentiles also be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.
Word of God, word of life. | Thanks be to God.
Standing THE HOLY GOSPEL John 15:9-17
On the night of his arrest, Jesus delivers a final testimony to his disciples to help them in the days ahead. Here, he repeats the most important of all his commands, that they love one another.
Before the reading: The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.
[Jesus said:] “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.”
After the reading: The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ.
Seated
SERMON
Pastor Jonathon Trapp
Kneeling or seated PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Each portion of the prayers concludes: God of grace, | hear our prayer. At the conclusion of the prayers: Amen
Rejoicing that Jesus is risen and love has triumphed over fear, let us pray for the church, the world, and all those in need of good news. A brief silence.
Your Holy Spirit falls upon all who hear the word. Fill your church with the gifts of your Spirit and give understanding hearts to those who strengthen our commitments with our ecumenical and interreligious partners, especially the Lutheran World Federation. God of grace, hear our prayer.
You speak and the face of the earth is renewed. Revive your creation, that habitats and every kind of living thing might flourish. Protect endangered species and help us to care for all your creatures. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Your world is divided and the nations rage. Grant wisdom and vision to world leaders, that they may seek justice, peace, and the good of all, especially for the conflicts in Israel, Palestine, and Ukraine. Strengthen international partnerships and cooperation.
God of grace, hear our prayer.
Your children are in need. Comfort all those who suffer, especially those afflicted by anxiety, depression, and mental illness. Sustain mental health professionals, and help us to be conduits of your love in our care for one another. We pray for the needs and concerns of this congregation, especially… God of grace, hear our prayer.
Your work is done in this place with our hands. Bless the ministries of this congregation (ministries may be named), that we may embody your love for the world. Inspire those who plan and lead worship, council members, committee members, and volunteers. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Your blessed saints now rest in you. Give us thankful hearts for those who have gone before us, especially…
At the last, bring us all together around your heavenly banquet table. God of grace, hear our prayer.
Into your hands, most merciful God, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your abiding love; through Jesus Christ, our resurrected and living Lord.
Amen.
Standing PEACE
The peace of Christ be with you always. | And also with you.
Please share a sign of blessing with your fellow worshipers in whatever way is comfortable for you.
Seated
GATHERING OF GIFTS
MUSIC by Redeemer Jazz Trio
Standing OFFERING PRAYER
Risen One, you call us to believe and bear fruit. May the gifts that we offer here be signs of your abiding love. Form us to be your witnesses in the world, through Jesus Christ, our true vine. | Amen.
GREAT THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you. | And also with you. Lift up your hearts! | We lift them to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. | It is right to give our thanks and praise.
EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
Thanks and praise fill our hearts, Almighty God, for you are the Lord of creation and new creation, of covenant and new covenant. You brought your people out of slavery to freedom in the Promised Land, and you brought your Son from the depth of death to the glory of resurrection life.
Joy and gladness are our song, redeeming God, for in your conquest of death we see the destiny of every hope in you. Come among us in the power of your Holy Spirit, that your children may be blessed with power and grace, and that this bread and cup may become for us the body and blood of your Son Jesus Christ; Who on the night in which he was betrayed, took bread, and gave thanks; broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.
Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this for the remembrance of me. Great is the mystery of faith.
Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again.
Hope and glory are our breath, merciful God, for you have rolled away the stone of despair. Come among us and breathe on us your peace. Shape your church to be your risen body; make our scars beautiful like your scars, make our lives life-giving like your life, and make our communion holy with your saints, until you come again in glory and we eat with you in your kingdom, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen
Gathered into one by the Holy Spirit, let us pray…
LORD’S 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, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
INVITATION TO COMMUNION
The risen Christ is made known to us in the breaking of the bread. Come and eat at God’s table.
Seated
All who seek to meet the Risen Christ in the bread and wine are invited to receive Holy Communion. Those who are worshiping online can join the pastors on Zoom for communion following the postlude. Link
Standing
The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace. | Amen
Let us pray. | Shepherding God, you have prepared a table before us and nourished us with your love. Send us forth from this banquet to proclaim your goodness and share the abundant mercy of Jesus, our redeemer and friend. Amen
SENDING
God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
BLESSING
Alleluia! Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia! The God of resurrection power, the Christ of unending joy, and the Spirit of Easter hope ☩ bless you now and always. | Amen.
Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee
SENDING
Alleluia! Go in peace. Rejoice and be glad. | Thanks be to God. Alleluia!
POSTLUDE by Redeemer Jazz Trio
LAST WEEK AT REDEEMER Attendance for April 28: In person: 227, On-line 157
HYMN 836Spring Musical
The Seraphim Choir will present Moses and the Freedom Fanatics this Sunday, May 5, at 10:00 am in the sanctuary. Come and support our elementary choir as they dramatize the story of Moses and the exodus from Egypt (complete with insects and one very cute frog) with music by Hal Hopson.
New Member Class at 10 AM in the Reception Room
All those interested in learning more about Lutheran theology, the history of Redeemer, and joining Redeemer are invited to join Pr. Jennifer and others for a 6week class. For more information or to RSVP, please email Pr. Jennifer at jroberts@redeemer.org
Music
and Arts Camp – “Step Right Up!” – June 10-14
Registration is now open. Rising kindergarteners through 6th graders will experience music, art, and drama all based on this year’s circus theme! The camp is from 9:00 am-4:00 pm, with free before and after-care. Tuition for the week is $165 and includes all activities, snacks, and a T-shirt. Sibling discounts apply, and financial need-based scholarships are available. All are welcome, so tell your friends and neighbors. For more information, or to volunteer, please contact Sarah Hawbecker at 404-874-8664, ext. 206 or shawbecker@redeemer.org.
Follow the camp and share our posts on Facebook at facebook.com/RedeemerMusicCamp/
VBS Supply Drive- Ends May 12th
You can help us out with VBS from the comfort of your own home! We have listed items we need for VBS on this Amazon Wish List (scan the code).
Once you order them, they will be delivered directly to the church and your job is done! If you prefer to shop in stores, contact Deacon Mary and we will give you a list. Thank you for your generosity!
Rejoicing Spirits is on a Summer Break!
Rejoicing Spirits worship will return in August. In the meantime, we are rejoicing every day in who God created us to be! We hope you are too.
YOUTH
Our chalice was made by one of our 8th grade Confirmation students, Colin Cooperider. Our wafer plate was also made by one of our 8th grade Confirmation students, Hanna Cramer. Each 8th grade Confirmation student had to answer the
question of “What does Communion mean to you?” This is Colin’s interpretation: “To me, Communion is like family. It makes me happy. We are together and it fills us with joy.” This is Hanna’s interpretation: “To me communion is something that brings people together. I value communion because it's been the same communion no matter the time period or year. Everyone is welcome at the table because God welcomes everyone.”
THANK YOU for supporting our youth and our Fundraiser! With our Kringles and Offering Envelope Fundraisers, we have raised over $7,000 towards our trip to the ELCA Youth Gathering that will be held in New Orleans. If you would like to still donate, you can do so via this link: https://form.jotform.com/240633324188152
Our High School and Beyond Parents Gathering will be meeting today from 10:00 AM-10:45 AM in Room 103. Our Middle School Parents Gathering will be meeting Sunday, May 12 from 10:00 AM-10:45 AM.
Graduate Recognition Sunday On Sunday, May 12 graduates will receive a blessing either during 9:00 AM worship or 11:00 AM worship, followed by a reception after each service in Sims Atrium. We congratulate graduates of all degrees and ages – high school, college, and even doctoral grads! Graduates should contact Hillary (hnelson@redeemer.org) no later than May 5 to be listed in the bulletin. Congratulations graduates!
Save the date-our 8th graders will be confirmed on Sunday, May 19 during the 11 AM service. A cake reception will follow the service in Sims Atrium. Congrats to our Confirmands!
CHILDREN AND FAMILY
Vacation Bible School Registration is Open!
June 3-7 our kids will gather for Camp Firelight, an interactive Vacation Bible School where children will go on a summer camp adventure with God, right here at Redeemer! VBS is 9 AM- 1 PM each day, including time for participants to eat lunch. We are excited to offer Before-care (8-9 am) and After-care (1-6 pm) options again this year for families who need a full day of child care. Parents and youth, we will need your help! We will work with you to find a role that fits your interests and availability. To register a youth (6th grade and up) or adult as a volunteer, find the code in the announcement above: VBS Needs You! Link: https://form.jotform.com/240165495570156
ADULT FAITH FORMATION
Consider the Birds
Led by Ed Scherlacher | Sundays | 10 am | Room 121
“Consider the Birds” is an inspirational study of the meaning and symbolism of birds found in the scriptures and ancient world.
Be Still and Journey - Last class before the summer break.
Led by Pat Cornwell | Sundays | 10 am | Room 119
Studying Ephesians by NT Wright For Everyone Bible Study. In Ephesians, Paul can't contain his joy and amazement at the larger story of God's plan to save us in Jesus the Messiah. It is designed to help you understand Scripture in fresh ways under the guidance of one of the world's leading New Testament scholars. These eleven studies from Tom Wright will help us see the significance of our role in God's grand narrative, and encourage us to live more fully as people who are lavishly loved by God. Please join us as we intentionally choose to learn and grow in faith
“We Make the Road by Walking” by Brian McLaren
Study led by Pastor Jonathan | Sundays 10 am | Reception Room
Opportunity each week to look at a scripture reading and, using reflection, present an introduction/re-orientation to the Christian Faith.
Tuesday Morning Bible Study
Led by David Ott & Don Noland | Tuesdays | 7 AM | Reception Room and Zoom
Currently studying Luke, to be followed by Acts of the Apostles. Everyone is welcome either 1/ in person in the Reception Room with a full breakfast serving from 7 am, or 2/ via ZOOM link found on the Redeemer website each Tuesday. Our study and discussion is from 7:30 - 8:30 am. Please join us any Tuesday morning!
Book Study with Pastor Jonathan
Tuesdays | 5 PM
Join Pr Jonathan on Zoom as the group discusses 'The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory' by Tim Alberta. Alberta is a practicing Christian and the son of an evangelical pastor, paints an expansive and profoundly troubling portrait of the American evangelical movement. Through the eyes of televangelists and small-town preachers, celebrity revivalists and everyday churchgoers, Alberta tells the story of a faith cheapened by ephemeral fear, a promise corrupted by partisan subterfuge, and a reputation stained by perpetual scandal. Reading is always encouraged but not required, your presence is enough!
Thursday afternoon Bible Study
Thursdays | 3 – 4:00 PM | Reception Room/ Zoom
The Tolkien group is moving on to our next adventure, The Fall of Númenor, on Thursday, May 9th. TFoN is the tale of the Second Age and a bridge from The
Silmarillion to The Lord of the Rings. Come join us! Knowledge of The Silmarillion is helpful, but not necessary. And mercifully, The Fall of Nûmenor is more narrative in nature than The Silmarillion. That being said, the topics and conversation in this group are adult in nature and not suitable for children. We gather for fellowship at 6:30 p.m. and begin reading at 7:30 p.m. Write Alisa Norvelle at anorvelle@mac.com to be included in the conversation. Namárië!
COMMUNITY
Beginning Today, the community at Redeemer will have the opportunity to help support those in need during the challenging transition as schools close for the summer. As families face the added burden of providing meals without the support of school programs, we will begin to collect food donations to assist the MAC organization. Your generosity has always shone brightly, and now, more than ever, your contributions can significantly impact those struggling with the rising costs. Look out for the bins in the Sims Atrium, where you can drop off food items and grab a flyer to spread the word. If you have any queries or wish to learn more about how you can help, feel free to reach out to Nathan Miller at nathanmiller1977@gmail.com. Your support, no matter how big or small, will be truly valued by MAC and those they serve.
The Midtown Race for MAC 5K returns to Piedmont Park on May 11, 2024! By joining the Redeemer Lutheran Group you will be supporting the Midtown Assistance Center’s mission to prevent homelessness and hunger in our community. Whether you're a serious runner or just looking for a fun day out with your family and furry friends, the Midtown Race for MAC 5K is a great way to get active and support a worthy cause! If you have questions feel free to contact Nathan Miller, nathanmiller1977@gmail.com or 770.633.4551.
Midtown Lutheran Preschool Open Enrollment – Spread the Word!
We are excited to announce that our preschool is currently enrolling’s for the Fall semester and space is still available for the current Spring semester. If you know any families looking for a half-day preschool program that runs from 9AM to 1PM Monday through Friday, please encourage them to consider MTLPS Church Preschool.
Visit our website www.mtlps.org for more information, including details about our curriculum, faculty, and enrollment process.
Calendar for May 5 – May 11, 2024
Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links Sunday, May 5, 2024
Event Time
Worship
J.O.Y. Choir
End-of-the-Year Youth Party
Pr. Jonathan Class
Consider the Birds
Be Still & Journey
Sing & Play
New Member class
HS and Beyond Parents
Monday, May 6
Carillon Ringers
Tuesday, May 7
Morning Bible Study
Pr. Jonathan Book Study
9:00 AM (Jazz) 11:00 AM
Organ & Choir
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
Location
In-person/ On-Line
Room 211
Fireside Room
Conference Room Room 121
Room 119
Rudisill Hall
Reception Room Room 103
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Hinely Music Hall
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Rudisill Hall/Zoom Zoom
Wednesday, May 8 - - -
Thursday, May 9
Tolkien Group 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom
Friday, May 10 - - -
Saturday, May 11 - - -
731 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308
www.redeemer.org | 404.874.8664 | Emergency Line: 404.874.9759
The Rev. Mark H. Larson ................................................................ Senior Pastor, ext. 201
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan Trapp .................................... Pastor for Faith Formation, ext. 233
The Rev. Jennifer Roberts ..................... Interim Pastor for Congregational Care, ext. 224
STAFF
Kofi Broadnax ..................................................................Property Administrator, ext. 210
Seth Brown............................................................. Facilities and Media Director, ext. 218
Brandon Davis ............................................. Director of Operations and Finance, ext. 232
Robin Durdin ...................................................... Office Administration Director, ext. 204
David Hansen .....................................................................Adult Choral Director, ext. 236
Sarah Hawbecker .................................... Organist & Children’s Music Director, ext. 206
Deacon Mary Houck .............................. Children & Family Ministries Director, ext. 227
Michele Miller .................................................... Financial Information Director, ext. 237
Kisha Johnson ............................................................ Interim Preschool Director, ext. 252
Larry Lowe................................................................................................. Security Officer
Hillary Nelson ...................................................... Youth Director, hnelson@redeemer.org
Chase Petersen ................................................... Organ Scholar, cpetersen@redeemer.org
Stacey Williams Head of Security