Holy Cross Day – September 14, 2025
The Order of Worship at 9:00 am Lutheran Church of the Redeemer’s Statement of Welcome
We serve a God of abundant grace and generosity. Our worship is centered on the invitation that Christ offers at the communion table: all are welcome in this place. That welcome flows through all we do and say. We open our arms to everyone who comes to share our love of God and all God’s people. We affirm and value the lives of everyone, including all who have been marginalized by ability, age, gender, gender identity, mental or physical health, poverty, race, sexual orientation, or any other circumstance. Let our message be clear: all are welcome to participate fully in the life of our congregation.
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.
PRELUDE Redeemer Jazz Trio - Jerry Fields, Percussion; Eric Hassel, Keyboard; Bryan Lopes, Woodwinds; and Rainy Lindsey, vocalist
WELCOME and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Standing HYMN 857
Verse
Lord, I Lift Your Name on High
Lord I lift Your name on high
Lord I love to sing Your praises
I'm so glad You're in my life
I'm so glad You came to save us
Chorus
You came from heaven to earth
To show the way
From the earth to the cross
My debt to pay
From the cross to the grave
From the grave to the sky
Lord I lift Your name on high
CCLI Song # 117947 Rick Founds © 1989 Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publishing (Admin. by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc.) ForusesolelywiththeSongSelect®TermsofUse.Allrightsreserved.www.ccli.comCCLI License # 2888121
CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, our maker, our helper, and our keeper. | Amen. Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.
Merciful and loving God, we are your stiff-necked people. We trample on the needy. We grumble about your grace to others. We turn away from the poor. Have mercy on us and forgive our sins. Rejoice over us as ones who were lost and have been found. Amen.
Even when we are faithless, God remains faithful. Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. You who were lost have been found. In the name of ☩ Jesus, your sins are forgiven! | Amen.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. | And also with you. Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ was lifted high upon the cross so that he might draw the whole world to himself. To those who look upon the cross, grant your wisdom, healing, and eternal life, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. | Amen.
Seated CHILDREN’S SERMON
Standing THE HOLY GOSPEL
John 3:13-17
After explaining to Nicodemus that one must be born of water and Spirit, Jesus speaks of being lifted up on the cross, with reference to the bronze serpent lifted up by Moses in the desert. Here the Son of God is revealed as the source of healing.
Before the reading: The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.
[Jesus said:] 13 “No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.
17 “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world but in order that the world might be saved through him.”
After the reading: The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ
Seated
SERMON Pastor Mark H. Larson
Standing HYMN 660
Lift High the Cross
Kneeling or seated PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Each portion of the prayers concludes: God of grace, | receive our prayer. At the conclusion of the prayers: Amen
Gracious God, we come to you in prayer for the church, the world, and all in need.
A brief silence.
Merciful God, pour out your grace upon your church. Forgive us for the times when we have been unfaithful, and renew our commitment to your gospel of love. Empower us to live as a community of mercy. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Merciful God, we ask forgiveness for the ways we have neglected and harmed this earth and its creatures. Confirm our commitment to care for all you have made, and grant us wisdom and strength to take action toward restoring your creation to its fullness. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Merciful God, govern all who hold positions of power and authority. Instruct them to make just decisions that serve the common good. Make them instruments of your mercy in the world, working to heal divisions and promote peace. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Merciful God, we lift up all who suffer. Bring healing, comfort, and peace to those who are sick, grieving, or in pain, especially
Give us compassionate hearts to accompany those who are hurting and courage to work for justice and mercy. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Merciful God, bind us together as a community of forgiveness and love. Supply us with humility to seek forgiveness when we have wronged one another and generosity to extend mercy when we have been wronged. Guide and support the work of mediators and all who work to resolve conflict peacefully. God of grace, receive our prayer.
Merciful God, we remember in love those who have departed this life, especially, Console those who mourn, and give them the hope of resurrection. God of grace, receive our prayer.
We entrust these prayers to you, O God, in the name of Jesus Christ, our redeemer and friend.
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
Lord of the harvest, we return to you a portion of what you have given to us. Turn us to set our hope not on the uncertainty of riches, but on you, who richly provides for us. Multiply what we have gathered to bless all who are suffering and in need, through Jesus Christ our Lord. | 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
Holy, mighty, and merciful Lord, heaven and earth are full of your glory.
In great love you sent to us Jesus, your Son, who reached out to heal the sick and suffering, who preached good news to the poor, and who, on the cross, opened his arms to all.
In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus 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.
Remembering, therefore, his death, resurrection, and ascension, we await his coming in glory.
Pour out upon us the Spirit of your love, O Lord, and unite the wills of all who share this heavenly food, the body and blood of Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be all glory and honor, now and forever.
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
Seated
Jesus welcomes sinners and eats with them. Come to this meal of mercy. 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. | O God, through this meal you have strengthened us and appointed us to be your servants. Send us to do good and to share our possessions with all in need. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen
SENDING
God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
BLESSING
The God of righteousness, who gives justice to the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry, who sets the prisoners free, ☩ bless you now and forever. | Amen.
HYMN 803
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
SENDING
Go in peace. Do not lose heart. | Thanks be to God.
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
POSTLUDE by Redeemer Jazz Trio
From sundaysandseasons.com. Copyright © 2021 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.
LAST WEEK AT REDEEMER Attendance for 9/7/25: In person 247, Online 152 NEXT WEEK AT REDEEMER Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Official Notice
The church council of Lutheran Church of the Redeemer officially calls a meeting of the congregation for Sunday, September 14. The purpose of this meeting is to approve the appointment of the Rev. Timothy Lloyd to the position of Associate Pastor for Evangelism and Mission Development. This meeting will take place following each worship service, with a Zoom option at 10 AM. A 2/3 vote is required for approval.
Join the Redeemer Team for Atlanta Streets Alive !!
Be part of a special opportunity to connect with our community during Atlanta Streets Alive TODAY from 2:00-6:00 p.m. We’ll be stationed at the sidewalk steps of Redeemer on Peachtree Street – greeting neighbors, handing out water, snacks and sharing friendly smiles with those passing by. Interested in helping? Stop by at the Information Table in Sims Atrium!
The Redeemer Congregation Council and the Diversity and Justice Ministry Team would like to thank all who attended the listening sessions about the process of becoming a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) partner congregation. The RIC Program comprises congregations, synods, colleges, seminaries, outdoor ministries, and other Lutheran organizations. All of these organizations are committed to welcoming, including, celebrating, and advocating for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions, as well as advocating for racial equity and committing to anti-racist work. Redeemer is already committed to these positions; thus, becoming a RIC Partner congregation allows us to share with the world that we are welcoming to all, as well as to advocate for that same welcoming attitude throughout the church. The council has prepared a FAQ, covering most of the questions raised at the sessions. You can learn more about the RIC Partner program at https://www.reconcilingworks.org The council is always interested to hear from you about your ideas, comments and concerns.
Welcome our new MSW intern Jacob Dolin!
Jacob Dolin is our Social Work Intern, joining us from Georgia State University. Jacob grew up in Illinois and went to school at Drake University in Iowa. Having moved to Midtown this past year, Jacob spent last year working at a health clinic in downtown Atlanta where he found community support systems for underrepresented populations. In his free time, he loves to watch sports and spend time with his family dogs.
Rejoicing Spirits
We can’t wait to rejoice with you! Join us in Rudisill Hall; Sunday, September 14 at 10:15-10:45. This special worship service is designed to be accessible to people of all abilities- yes, that means you! We are all beloved children of God with strengths and weaknesses.!
Sunday School Registration is Open!!
We can’t wait to learn and grow in faith with your family this year!! We kick things off with Sing and Play for all ages today and our first day in classrooms will be September 14. You can register at this link, scan the code, or speak to Deacon Mary with any questions. Sunday School is for ages 2- 5th grade. Interested in volunteering with Sunday School? Speak to Deacon Mary about volunteer opportunities.
Two-Year-Old
Faith Stepping Stone-TODAY
Faith Stepping Stones are offered to children ages 2-5th grade at Redeemer, to help families fulfill the promises of Baptism. Each year, children get an introduction to a different aspect of faith. Our two-year-olds and their parents are invited on Sunday, September 14 at 10 am for ‘Welcome to
Sunday School’, when children receive their own Bible and a blessing as they begin participating. At least one parent is required to attend with each child, but we recommend all parents from each family participating in this special milestone! We will meet in room 209, at the end of the upstairs hallway.
Third Grade Faith Stepping Stone Starts Next Sunday!
The Bible is not only the word of God, but it shares stories of the people of God on their journey of faith. Third graders and their parents or caregivers (at least one) are invited to start a Bible Adventure together! September 21, 28 and October 5: 10:00- 10:45; October 5: Blessing in 11:00 service.
YOUTH
Youth Forms: If you haven’t done so already, make sure your 2025-2026 youth forms are in! Confirmation (6th-8th grade): No confirmation this week, on account of the Confirmation Retreat. High School Faith Formation in the Youth Lounge (10:00-10:45). This week we will meet in the youth lounge and then join our siblings at Rejoicing Spirits at 10:15. Save the dates:
• Fall Faith Formation Fieldtrips (All youth, plus parents are invited!)
o NorthPoint church visit Oct. 5 (departing Redeemer @ 10:00 am)
o Jewish Synagogue visit Dec. 13 (service is 10:30-noon)
• High School Social Event 9/28: Tentatively Fright Nights @ Six Flags, depending on interest. Let us know your feedback and stay tuned for final details!
• Atlanta United 10/18
• Middle School Lock-in Nov. 1-2. Fun, fellowship, and celebrating All Saints Day!
FAITH FORMATION
Sunday September 28 and Oct 5 | Rudisill Hall | Pastors Class
Join Pr. Mark for a recap of his Wednesday evening class, “Shared Stories, Rival Tellings”
Sundays 10 am | Room 121 | Mysteries of Faith
Join the study of Materiality as Resistance: Five Elements for Moral Action in the Real World, based on the 2020 book of the same name by the late Prof. Walter Brueggemann of Columbia Theological Seminary. Prof. Brueggemann was the William Marcellus McPheeters Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary and was an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ.
Sundays 10 am | Room 119 | Be Still and Journey, Open to anyone interested Led by Pat Cornwell
Our Fall book selection will be Amy Jill Levine’s book, Sermon on the Mount
Mondays 1:30 pm | Reception Room | The Seekers Bible Study led by Bill Pegram
We continue digging deep into the Gospel of Matthew.
Tuesdays 5 pm | Zoom
Join our discussion on ‘The Nine O'Clock Whistle: Stories of the Freedom Struggle for Civil Rights in Enfield, North Carolina’ by Willa Cofield, Cynthia Samuelson, and Mildred Sexton. This book tells the story of Enfield, NC, a community that was deeply segregated and enforced a variety of racist norms and practices. It is a story of how people stood up and confronted these unjust practices. As always, everyone is welcome and reading is optional, though encouraged. If you have any questions, please reach out to Pr Jonathan at jtrapp@redeemer.org
Tuesdays 7 am Morning Bible Study | Reception Room and Zoom
Led by David Ott & Don Noland
We are now studying Romans. 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!
Wednesdays 4 pm | Early Bird Bible Study | Reception Room
Led by David Ott
Wednesdays 6 pm | Pastors Class | Rudisill Hall/Zoom
“Shared Stories, Rival Tellings” Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are considered kindred religions-holding ancestral heritages and monotheistic belief in common-but there are definitive distinctions between these "Abrahamic" peoples. Early on, each tradition took a unique approach to the shared stores of Cain/Abel, Sarah and Hagar, Joseph, and others. As we look at the variations in interpretations, we can see the issues that still divide, and sometimes unite, these "Religions of the Book."
COMMUNITY
Calling all Faithful Hands and Sacred Makers
2025 Hat & Scarf Challenge
The Prayer Shawl Ministry invites everyone to knit or crochet hats and scarves for those in need, to be distributed during the Lutheran Community Food Ministry Holiday Meals. Scarves should be at least 60" long; superwash yarn is preferred. Drop completed items in the Fall 2025 Challenge box in Room 119, where free yarn is available. We also have yarn and patterns for prayer shawls, and can teach anyone who wants to learn. For questions or pattern ideas, contact Pat Cornwell at jpcorn90@gmail.com
Sunday, September 21st at 2:30 pm.
The Redeemer Concert Series will open its 2025-26 season with a performance by the Black Oak Ensemble. Praised for its “insightful, committed and masterful performances” (Classics Today 10/10) and “fierce eloquence” (London Times), The Black Oak Ensemble has established itself as one of the most innovative and exciting chamber ensembles on the international stage. The trio's CD release, “Avant l’orage,” a double album of French string trios, reached #1 in the Billboard
Classical Charts and was featured as Album of the week on Symphony Hall Sirius XM and was nominated for a 2023 ICMA International Chamber Music Award. The Black Oak Ensemble consists of violinist Desirée Ruhstrat and cellist David Cunliffe, members of the multiGRAMMY-nominated Lincoln Trio, and violist Aurélien Fort Pederzoli, a founding member of the ground-breaking, GRAMMY-nominated Spektral Quartet.
Celebrate National Coming Out Day
Join us on Sunday, October 5 at 5:00 PM at 7 Stages Theater in Little Five Points as we come together to honor and celebrate National Coming Out Day.
This special event is a time to show support, share stories, and stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. ✨ 100% of the evening’s offerings will benefit Georgia Equality, supporting their important work for equality and justice. All are welcome come as you are and be part of this meaningful celebration!
Mark Your Calendar for our First Sunday- Funday!
October 19 following the 11 a.m. worship service 12:00- 3:00 pm | Sims Atrium
Dust off your dancing shoes and join the fun as we celebrate! Oktoberfest!
Great German Food and Beer- along with Kid friendly choices! Music by The Atlanta German Band Dancing, Games, and lots of Fun! Donations will be accepted for Food and Beverages (including Beer) German dress welcomed!
Calendar for September 14 – September 20, 2025
Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links
Sunday, September 14, 2025
Event Time Location
Worship Mysteries of Faith Be Still & Journey
Children’s Sunday School
HS Faith Formation
Rejoicing Spirits Streets Alive
Monday, September 15
The Seekers
Carillon Ringers
Tuesday, September 16
Morning Bible Study
Pr. Jonathan Book Study
Wednesday, September 17
9:00 AM Jazz & 11:00 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 – 11:00 AM 2:00 PM
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
In-person/ On-Line Room 121 Room 119
Rooms 201, 203, 205,207
Youth Lounge Rudisill Hall
Reception Room Hinely Music Hall
Reception Room Zoom
Early Birds Bible Study
Wednesday Night Dinner
Seraphim Choir
Pastors Class
Redeemer Ringers
Worship
Thursday, September 18
Tolkien Group
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
6:00 PM -7:00 PM
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Reception/Zoom
Sims Atrium Room 204
Rudisill Hall/ Zoom Room 202 Sanctuary
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom
Friday, September 19 - - -
THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
OF
THE REDEEMER
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 STAFF
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
Pepper Humpherys.............................................................................. Youth Director, ext. 230
Deacon Allison Lizdas ............................................ Director of Congregational Care, ext. 203
Stacey Williams .............................................................................................. Head of Security