sunday jan 18, 2026 - order of worship at 9 am - Lutheran Church of the Redeemer Atlanta GA USA by redeemeratl

Second Sunday after Epiphany – January 18, 2026

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 and expression, 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 341

Behold the Lamb

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, the Creator of heaven and earth, the Word who spoke life into being, the Wind stirring the waters. | Amen.

Kneeling or Seated

Mighty God, lover of justice, | you call us to life in community, but we have served our own interests at the expense of our neighbors. We have sown deceit where honesty was needed. We say the right words, but our hearts are far from you. Turn us to seek your face. Knit us together and give us the mind of Christ, that we may do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God. Amen.

The former things have passed away, and new things God now declares: Like a spring of water that never fails, God covers you in the righteousness of Christ, and forgives your sin in ☩ Jesus’ name. May the Spirit give you strength to live for others, and bless you with the gift of peace. | Amen.

Standing

PRAYER OF THE DAY

The Lord be with you. | And also with you.

Holy God, our strength and our redeemer, by your Spirit hold us forever, that through your grace we may worship you and faithfully serve you, follow you and joyfully find you, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. | Amen.

Seated CHILDREN’S SERMON

Standing THE HOLY GOSPEL

John 1:29-42

John the Baptist’s witness to Jesus initiates a chain of testimony as his disciples begin to share with others what they have found.

Before the reading: The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.

29 [John the Baptist] saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him, but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” 32 And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. 33 I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Chosen One.”

35 The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and as he watched Jesus walk by he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. 38 When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39 He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. 40 One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). 42 He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).

After the reading: The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ

Seated SERMON

Standing HYMN

Making Their Way

Pastor Mark H. Larson

Kneeling or seated PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION

Each portion of the prayers concludes: Merciful God, | receive our prayer. At the conclusion of the prayers: Amen

As God’s beloved children united in Christ, let us pray for the church, the whole human community, and the well-being of the earth, our home.

A brief silence.

Gracious God, gather the church into one great fellowship. Equip your people to work together for justice and peace, following the example of Martin Luther King Jr., renewer of society, whose birth we remember this week. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

Creating God, sustain the web of life on this planet. Protect wild places, endangered species, and vulnerable habitats. Come to the aid of those affected by natural disasters. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

Just God, you desire respect and equality for everyone. Raise up prophets who speak truth to the nations. Embolden leaders and those in authority to advocate for people in need. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

Healing God, you lift up those who are bowed down by trouble, oppression, or illness (especially). Bring an end to social injustice and inequities of every kind, so that all people may have abundant life. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

Abiding God, you are present with this congregation. Keep us mindful of our mission and guide our ministries in this community. Kindle in us a desire to help one another. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

Faithful God, you promise to be with us always. We remember with gratitude the faithful departed who now rest in you. Strengthen us to the end, that we may see you face to face. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

Confident that the Holy Spirit receives our prayers and answers us, we commend all for whom we pray to God’s loving-kindness made known to us in Christ Jesus our Savior. 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 MISSION MOMENT Habitat for Humanity

GATHERING OF GIFTS

MUSIC by Redeemer Jazz Trio

Standing OFFERING PRAYER

God of majesty, no eye has seen, no ear has heard what you have prepared for those who love you, yet in this meal you reveal the wideness of your mercy. Use what we have gathered to feed us with the reign of God come near, Jesus Christ, our Savior and 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

O God most mighty, O God most merciful, hear us as we praise, call us to your meal, grant us your life.

When the earth was formless and empty, you created order and beauty. When Abraham and Sarah were barren, you delivered them a child; when the Israelites were enslaved, you led them to freedom; Ruth faced starvation, David fought Goliath, and the psalmists cried out for healing with all your people we implore you to save us, and we praise you for granting us life.

You came to our world in Jesus our brother. He was born among the poor, he lived under oppression, he wept over the city. Full of compassion, he granted the people your life.

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.

Come, Breath of creation, enliven our bones. Come, living Water, replenish the earth. Come, holy Fire, make us lights in the world. Like a tree rich with fruit, nourish us with your bounty. From your throne, teach us justice. In your arms, give us peace.

Mighty God, mothering God, grant us your life, the life of the Father to the Son, the life of the Spirit of our risen Savior, life in you, 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

Seated

Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! Come to the table; taste and see. 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. | Radiant God, we have seen your glory in the face of Jesus Christ. In the sacrament of his body and blood you have drawn us to your heart. Send us from this table with delight, that our lives may reflect the beauty of your love, and bear witness to all we have seen and heard, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen

SENDING

God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.

BLESSING

May the triune God, who has put a new song in your mouth and tuned your heart for praise ☩ bless you now and forever. | Amen.

HYMN

We Will Glorify

Text and music © 1982 Singspiration Music/ASCAP, admin. Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing CCLI Song # 19038 Twila Paris © 1982 New Spring For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI License # 2888121

SENDING

Go in peace. Do justice. Love mercy. | Thanks be to God.

NEXT WEEK AT REDEEMER Third Sunday after Epiphany

LAST WEEK AT REDEEMER attendance: 265 in person, 157 online

Hope is Here! 2026 Lenten Small Groups

We are seeking leaders for our Lenten Small Group Book Discussion. This year we will be discussing Hope is Here! Spiritual Practices for Pursuing Justice and Beloved Community by Cander emeritus professor Luther E. Smith Jr. Focusing on five spiritual practices, Smith promises that hope provide the inner resources needed to live the fulfilling life that God dreams for us. If you are interested in leading a small group, please contact Pastor Mark at mlarson@redeemer.org. Small group sign ups will begin Feb. 1 and meetings will begin the week of Ash Wednesday.

FAITH FORMATION

Adult Sunday School Class with Pastor Ron Bonner!

Join Pastor Ron on January 25 from 10am-11am in the Reception room for a discussion on his new book “Making it Plain.” The kindle version of the book is currently on sale for $0.99 here and is listed as the #1 best seller in Sociology of Race Relations. You can also use the QR code to find the book.

Sundays 10 am | Room 121 | Mysteries of Faith

Join us for a study of Charles Murray’s 2025 book, ”Taking Religion Seriously”. This is Murray’s autobiographical account of the decades-long evolution in his stance toward the idea of God in general and Christianity in particular. He argues that religion is something that can be approached as an intellectual exercise. His account moves from the improbable physics of the Big Bang to recent discoveries about the nature of consciousness, from evolutionary psychology to hypotheses about a universal Moral Law. His exploration of Christianity delves into the authorship of the Gospels, the reliability of Biblical texts, and the scholarship surrounding the resurrection story. ”Maybe God needs a way to reach over-educated agnostics and that’s what I stumbled into, ” Murray writes. ”It’s a more arid process than divine revelation but it has been rewarding. And, if you’re like me, it’s the only game in town” ALL ARE INVITED.

Sundays 10 am | Room 119 | Be Still and Journey

Led by Pat Cornwell

Podcast Series: The Way of Love is a Way of Life: it is an intentional commitment to a set of practices. It's a commitment to follow Jesus ways to grow spiritually—deepening our love of God and neighbor. Bishop Budde shares how we can come to know to receive Jesus more deeply in practicing the Way of Love. Through the seven practices that have been put before us: to turn, to learn, to pray and to worship, to bless, to go, and to rest, she will share biblical stories, wisdom from the Christian tradition, and her own personal stories of spiritual growth. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the bishop and spiritual leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, D.C., and the Washington National Cathedral. Pat Cornwell, Facilitator, Contact information: jpcorn90@gmail.com

Mondays at 1:30 pm | Reception Room | The Seekers Bible Study led by Bill Pegram Will resume January 26th

We continue digging deep into the Gospel of Matthew.

Tuesdays 7 am Breakfast Bible Study | Reception Room and Zoom

Led by David Ott & Don Noland

We are now studying Galatians. 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!

Tuesdays 5 pm | Zoom

Led by Pastor Jonathan

Join us for fellowship and learning as we start a new book, The Intermediaries: A Weimar Story on January 6th. Set in interwar Germany, The Intermediaries tells the forgotten story of the Institute for Sexual Science, the world’s first center for homosexual and transgender rights. Headed by a gay Jewish man, Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld, the institute aided in the first genderaffirming surgeries and hormone treatments, acting as a rebellious base of operations in the face of rising prejudice, nationalism, and Nazi propaganda.

The Intermediaries charts the relationships between nascent sexual science, queer civil rights, and the fight against fascism. It tells riveting stories of LGBTQ pioneers―a surprising, longsuppressed history― and offers a perspective into the plight of trans people as we think about our society As always, reading is encouraged but not required! If you have any questions, please reach out to Pr Jonathan at jtrapp@redeemer.org.

Wednesdays 6 pm | Pastors Class | Rudisill Hall/Zoom

The book of Joshua is theologically powerful, characterizing the covenant people as eager to obey Yhwh and showing their God as one who is mighty to save. It also espouses appalling support for unbridled militarized violence by Israel against inhabitants of Canaanite territories, which still provides legitimation for the occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel today. Let us journey together to discover what fruits we can harvest from this often disturbing book.

CHILDREN & FAMILY

Pool Party at GA Tech

The Redeemer CFM families are making a splash at the GA tech pool again this year. February 1st from 1:30-3:30 we will enjoy fellowship together at the pool and remember our baptisms! No RSVP required. Friends and neighbors welcome.

YOUTH

Summer Service Trip: We are planning to do our summer service trip with Appalachian Service Project the week of July 12. See the link in the e-newsletter to let us know if you will be coming. For adults, we will be needing extra chaperones this year because of the type of work involved, so also please let Pepper know you would like to join us!

KEYSTONE

Kick off the New Year with Keystone!

Older adults are invited to a joyful afternoon of party bites, beverages, fellowship, and a free painting class (no artistic ability required)! Come nurture your spirit, connect with friends, and start 2026 with creativity and community.

We will meet in the Fireside room from 1:00-3:30pm on January 22nd. Please RSVP by January 12th to Deacon Allison or by scanning the QR code

CHILDREN’S MUSIC

If you have felt left out because Wednesdays were impossible for your family’s participation, please join us in the new year! We are also expanding the age limit, allowing Kindergartners and 1st graders. Our ensembles are open to all, with no experience required. Joining voices in fellowship and praise, you will make friends and memories while serving God, our congregation and community. Sunday mornings, beginning January 11:

• J.O.Y. Choir, grades 6-12. 9:00-9:45

• Seraphim Choir, grades K-5. 9:00-10:00

Scan the QR code for registration. Please contact Sarah at shawbecker@redeemer.org with questions or for more information.

COMMUNITY

MLK Day of Service

Start your new year by serving your Atlanta neighbors! On Monday, January 19, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Redeemer's Community Engagement team is organizing a variety of service projects to honor Dr. King's legacy of compassionate action. Opportunities include helping residents at Lutheran Towers with apartment needs, supporting repairs and landscaping at Grace House at Georgia Tech, writing encouragement cards for the women at Wellspring Living, and beautifying our neighborhood through trash pickup around Redeemer and along Peachtree Street. Family-friendly options will be available for all ages. Lunch will be provided at Redeemer following the morning of service.

Friday, January 30, 7:30 PM

ORGAN ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

The Redeemer Concert Series and the Atlanta Chapter of the American Guild of Organists present Nathaniel Gumbs in a free concert as we celebrate Redeemer’s 73-rank Létourneau pipe organ. Dr. Gumbs serves as Director of Music at The Riverside Church in New York City and maintains a vibrant performing career, appearing at many distinguished venues in the U.S.A. and abroad. Consistently gathering new followers, Dr. Gumbs presents his concert programs with energy and always makes a compelling connection with his audiences through his own vitality and music that inspires. The Friends of Music will host a reception in Sims Atrium following the concert.

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about how to identify warning signs, support survivor recovery, and strengthen community resilience to prevent exploitation. This national emphasis began in 2010. In 2011, Redeemer formed Redeeming Grace to create awareness, serve as advocates, and play a role in the restoration of the lives of the children (ages 12 to 17) in the Girls Residential Program of Wellspring Living. Please see the display in Sims Atrium on January 11, 18 and 25 and learn about Redeemer’s involvement. The most recent involvement is the donation of over $2,800 in gift cards for the Wellspring Living girls for use in 2026! Northside Circle has also donated birthday and gift cards for each Wellspring Living girl for this year!

Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Opportunity

This Lent, Lutheran Church of the Redeemer will be participating in the 2025 Atlanta Habitat for Humanity Lenten Build, and we need YOUR help! This year, we will be working alongside

Jasmine and several other Atlanta area churches to build a new home. By partnering with Atlanta Habitat, we become a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization, building quality, affordable homes while creating lasting opportunities for families to thrive far beyond the build. Join Us!

Over the course of 7 Saturdays, starting February 7th, we will come together to build a home for Jasmine and her family. We encourage all members of our congregation 16 and older to volunteer, no matter your skill level! It’s an incredible opportunity to serve our community, help a family, and live out our faith in action.

Questions?

Contact David Barnes (David.R.Barnes@gmail.com) or Dana Norden (DNorden3@gmail.com) To Volunteer:

● Dates: Saturdays, February 7th through March 28th from 7:30am – 3:30pm

● No experience required — just a willing heart and hands ready to serve!

Let’s come together and make a meaningful difference in Jasmine’s life and the lives of others. Sign up in the church atrium beginning January 5 or use the QR code below. Registration closes 1 week prior to each build date and each volunteer must register themselves through our registration link.https://vhub.at/redeemer

Calendar for January 18 – January 24, 2026

Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links

Sunday, January 18, 2026

Event Time Location

Worship

Seraphim Rehearsal

J.O.Y. Choir

Redeemer Choir Rehearsal

High School Faith Formation

Children’s Sunday School

Be Still and Journey

Mysteries of Faith

Monday, January 19

9:00 AM Jazz & 11:00 AM

9:00 AM – 10 AM

9:00 AM – 9:45 AM 9:00 AM – 10:30 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

MLK Day of Service 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Tuesday, January 20

Morning Bible Study 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM

Wednesday, January 21

Early Birds Bible Study

Wednesday Night Dinner

Pastors Class

Worship

In-person/ On-Line

Room 204

Room 211

Hinely Music Hall

Youth Lounge Various Rooms Room 119 Room 121

Reception Room

Reception/Zoom

5:00 PM – 6:30 PM 6:00 PM -7:00 PM

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

7:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Redeemer Choir Rehearsal 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Thursday, January 22

Keystone Kick-off Party

Lectionary Study 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Sims Atrium

Rudisill Hall/ Zoom

Sanctuary Hinely Music Hall

Fireside Room Zoom

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. Timothy Lloyd

Associate Pastor for Evangelism & Mission Development, ext. 224

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