Order of Worship and Weekly Newsletter for the week of September 21, 2025
THE WORSHIP OF GOD
THE 15TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
September 21, 2025 · 11:00 AM
"As far as we are concerned, there is no dislike, no personal tension, no disunity or strife that cannot be overcome by intercessory prayer. Intercessory prayer is the purifying bath into which the individual and the community must enter every day.”
-Dietrich Bonhoeffer
CHIMING OF THE HOUR
WELCOME TO WORSHIPERS.......................................................................
Dr. Chris George Senior Pastor
ORGAN PRELUDE
Prelude on BEACH SPRING................................................................Charles Callahan
LIGHTING OF THE CANDLES AND OPENING OF THE BIBLE
Gabe Arnold, crucifer; David George and Jonas Payne, acolytes
Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that He opened for us through the curtain (that is, through His flesh), and since we have a great Priest over the house of God, let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith (Hebrews 10:19-22).
The procession and the processional cross say in symbolic form exactly what the Holy Spirit inspired the writer of Hebrews to encourage in written form.
Jesus said: "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12). The presence of the light reminds us of Jesus' coming into our world and into our lives. The light is carried into the worship service as a symbol of Jesus' coming into the presence of the worshiping c ommunity.
Opening the Bible is an act of worship. It is also a testimony to our belief in the presence of God through the proclaimed Word and our commitment to the “soul liberty” of the individual believer and his/her conscience. These twin commitments constitute a noble heritage, a present enjoyment and a treasured legacy. Therefore, as the Bible is opened, may we all, singly and corporately, open ourselves to the visitation of God’s Spirit and the gift of Holy Scripture. (Adapted from FBC Providence, RI, the First Baptist Church in America)
Rebecca Caswell-Speight Minister of Families and Faith Formation
Rebecca Caswell -Speight
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know Your name put their trust in You, for You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.
Sing praises to the Lord, Who dwells in Zion.
Declare His deeds among the peoples. God does not forget the prayers of the afflicted.
Be gracious to me, O Lord. You are the one who lifts me up, so that I may recount all Your praises and rejoice in your deliverance.
Sing praises to the Lord, Who dwells in Zion.
"To Him Who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!"
CHORAL MUSIC
Honor and Glory......................................................Music, J.S. Bach ; Arr. Walter Ehret
Honor and glory be to God in the highest . Hallelujah! Sing praises to His name.
INVOCATION
All Hail the Power of Jesus’
SCRIPTURE READING I Timothy 2: 1-7.........................................................
Rev. Rebecca Caswell -Speight
Dr. Jim Smtih Pastoral Care Associate
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, 2for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. 3This is right and is acceptable in
the sight of God our Savior, 4who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5For there is one God; there is also one mediator between God and humankind, Christ Jesus, himself human, 6who gave himself a ransom for all this was attested at the right time. 7For this I was appointed a herald and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
For the word of God in scripture, for the word of God among us, for the word of God within us, Thanks be to God!
THE CALL TO PRAYER...................................................................
Rev. Mitzi Ethridge-Cantrell
DUET
Prayer for Today................................................................... ......Margaret R. Tucker
Anna Murdock, soprano; Danny V ancil, baritone; Evan George, flute
God in heaven, I make my prayer for all the people everywhere, who live in fear or pain or doubt; whose homes are gone and hopes run out.
God in heaven, I make my prayer for all the children everywhere who live in terrible, warring places; who live with hunger and strange, sad faces.
God in heaven, I make my prayer for all good people everywhere who live in comfort, love and peace, and pray sincerely for strife to cease; but who do not always hear the call of those who live with nothing at all.
God in heaven, hear my prayer! Help all people everywhere to come closer together in plenty and need, and to make our world your home, indeed.
PASTORAL PRAYER WITH OUR LORD’S PRAYER..............................
Rev. Ethridge-Cantrell
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, the power and the glory forever. Amen.
At this time children, ages three through 2nd grade will depart for Godly Play in room 207.
Fairest Lord Jesus................................................................ ..........Arr. Molly Ijames
Heather Huff and Judy Parker, pianists
THE DOXOLOGY.................................................................................... .................OLD 100TH
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
SERMON....................................................................... .........................................Dr. George
Praying for Everyone
†HYMN OF DEDICATION AND RESPONSE 278
We Are Travelers on a Journey ..................................................... ...BEACH SPRING
PARTING WORDS.......... ....................................................................................... Dr. George
ORGAN POSTLUDE
Postlude on CORONATION.................................................................Jason D. Payne
RECESSIONAL
The acolytes leave the worship service, carrying out the lighted candlelighters symbolizing the light of Jesus Christ going out into the world where believers are to serve. Similarly, when Christians leave worship, they go back to their daily lives. There they carry out the tasks God has given them to do, there they face trouble and temptation, there they go and make disciples of all nations. As we depart, we do so under the shadow of the cross. Jesus’ final promise to his people, “I will be with you always” is proclaimed to us not only words to our mind, therefore, but also in symbolism to our eyes.
†All who are able are invited to stand.
Heather Huff, pianist; J ason Payne, organist
Support for every stage of life.
Find care, renewal, and guidance in a welcoming and compassionate space.
Find Support For:
Grief . Anxiety . Depression Life Transitions
All 50 minute sessions are only $25 thanks to a generous donation.
Our Counselors
Eliza Sanford
LAPC, NCC, MS (334) 596-5566
Office Hours: Monday – 8am to Noon Friday – Noon to 6pm
Eliza completed her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. She has her National Counseling Certification (NCC) and is in the process of obtaining full professional counseling licensure. Eliza has previous work experience in a variety of settings including outpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and residential. She specializes in trauma care, eating disorder recovery, couples/families therapy, mood-related disorders, and cooccurring disorders.
Alli Nicolais
LCSW, LMFT (404) 990-4888
Office Hours: Thursdays – 11am to 1pm
Alli Nicolais offers counseling services to older adults, including those living in independent living communities or care settings as they navigate life transitions and the anxiety, depression and other adjustment issues that may arise. At The University of Georgia, Alli studied Clinical Social Work with a special focus in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is licensed as both a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). She also has additional training in brainspotting and EMDR.
Prayer List
Seek the Lord and His strength, seek His face continually.
1 Chronicles 16:11
Please let us know if someone needs to be added or removed from this list by calling 770.469.5856
*Indicates new concerns
**Recent surgery or hospitalization
Updated September 18, 2025 at 9:00 am
Deaths
Bob Burkett
Hospice
Jeanie Duvall
Elaine Headley
Dee Dee Poss
Home Care
Gloria Adams
Brenda Brantly
Lillian Gulley
Jim Harris
Sandra McNiel
Ken Underwood
Rehabilitation/Assisted Living/Long Term Care
Martha Albertson
David Bishop, Sr.
Lois Brecht
Lynn Buckhalt
Connie and Kermit Burns
Nancy and Richard Davis
JoAnne Frith
Shirley Furr
Carol Hand
Sandra Hawkins
Jan Lammert
Warren Mason
Dixie Meister
Donna Metz
Nita Mitchell
Ronnie Smith
Pat Thompson
Jerry Wade
Ohlen and Martha Wilson
Concerns
Ron Atteberry
Jean Ballew's daughter, Kim
Janet Benford
Gleason & Janet Benford’s daughter, Jennifer
Orlando Blancato's brother, Dan
*Joy Bouchard's son-in-law, Charles
Mary Brannon
Bob Brownings' grandson, William Browning
Tom Bruce
**Billy Buckhalt
Candace Caswell
Linda Caswell
Sally Cates’ granddaughter, Zoey Kramer
Robert Cherry
Joanne Cofer
Victoria Crosby’s friend, Nancy Costo
Jane Cummins' son-in-law, Larry Beebe
Carol Densford
Janet Granade's nephew, Ron Spain
Suzy Harrell
Georgianne and Joel Harrison's son-in-law, Evan Vitch
Mike and Martha Holt's brother-in-law, Steve
Gaddis
Steve & Sandy Huff's sister-in-law, Malie Huff
Charlotte Johnson’s son-in-law
Carol Johnson
John Jones' nephew, Randy Bolling
Joan Kennedy
Bob and Vicki King's grandson, Jack
Tommy and Marion Lankford
Beth Larance
Don McChesney’s brother-in-law, Bob Lewis
Susie and Larry Middlebrooks
Nancy Mitchell
Alice Moore’s niece, Deanne Peacock
Ken Morgan’s son-in-law, Brad Dennis
*Alli Nicolais and her family
Sara Ann Pepper's nephew, Jeff Paul
Joel Price
Dara Reynolds' friend, Doug Breland
Dara Reynolds' aunt
Sara Salvadore’s friend, Hugh Bennawitz
Sara Salvadore’s friend, Erin O'Brian
Catherine Sloan’s great-grandson, Cade Walker
Karen Smith
Jean and Mark Sowell's family friend, Michael Boswell
Carolyn Springston
**Anabelle Stafford
**Graham Stovall
A PEOPLE OF Prayer
We invite you to pause, pray, and reflect.
Ernie Strauss' son and granddaughter
Nell Thomas
Jim and Dinah Watsons daughter-in-law, Pilar
Brian Weatherby
Bobbie and Jim Wehner
Michael and Debby Willis’ nephew, Cameron
Willis
John Wilson
Academy of Arts teacher, Kim Britt
Academy of Arts teacher, Janet Chadwick
Brookwood Orchestra Teacher, Ms. Kendall
FBC Gainesville Senior Pastor, Jeremy Shoulta
Retired minister from Briarlake, Larry Sullivan
Dear Lord, place your hands upon our hands turned open to you in prayer that we may be channels of your healing grace speaking into the darkness. Stir us by your Spirit to be persistent in our petitions, even in the silent, lonely hours.
In a world that is swift to forget and slow to redeem, hear us, O Lord, as we speak again and then again.
Make us intercessors of your love.
Coffee and Donuts - 9:00 am
In-Person and Zoom Sunday School - 9:45 am
In-Person and Live stream Worship Service - 11:00 am
Children and Youth Activities - 5:00 pm
Dinner - 5:00 pm
Prayer Concerns - 6:00 pm
Youth and Children’s Activities - 6:00 pm
In-Person and Live stream Journeys - 6:00 pm
Sanctuary Choir - 7:00 pm
Grief Support Group
September 21 5:00 PM | Room 308
Our grief support group meets once a month to provide a safe space for sharing, healing, and encouragement. Whether you’re experiencing recent loss or carrying grief from the past, you are welcome here.
Faithful Voices
October 6 10:30 am | Chapel
One Monday a month come and lift your voice in praise as we celebrate through music and fellowship. All are welcome!
Smoke Rise Young Adults
September 27 | 9:30 am Mint Coffehouse
Young Adults are invited to Coffee Boat for a time of fellowship each month.
NEURODIVERSITY CAREGIVERS GROUP
September 22 | 7:00 PM | Room 308
This group will both share in the joys of neurodivergence, as well as be a sounding board and support to help caregivers provide the best care possible to their family members.
Confidential RSVP to Martha at mabner@smokerisebaptist.org to receive group updates.
October 9 | 11:30 am Magnolia Room Cafeteria
All men are invited for a wonderful time of devotion, prayer, great food, and fellowship. RSVP to Martha in the church office at 770.469.5856
A Space for Families
Gathered & Rooted
October 26 | 5-7 PM at the Murdock's Home
Family Ministries invites families with children and youth to join us for Gathered & Rooted—a time to connect, share fellowship, and grow together.
A Fall Devotional
In late August, we invited several Smoke Rise members to share a story about a moment in their lives that has become central to their love for the Church. These personal stories help us get to know one another while reflecting on our own faith journeys.
Each Tuesday through the end of the year, these stories will be posted along with reflection questions, scripture, and a prayer on our website at smokerisebaptist.org.
All Women are Welcome to Our
Circle Groups
Sadies' Ladies Circle
October 13 | 1:30 PM | Room 223
Every month we support a local mission effort and enjoy a wonderful time of fellowship.
Fite Circle
October 14 | 10:00 AM | Parlor
All our welcome to join us for a time of community and supprt.
Nancy's Heart Stitchers
October 21 | 1:00 PM | Room 304
We share comfort and joy through handmade baby and lap quilts—join us if you love to sew!
Blessing of the Pets
September 27 | 10:00 AM
This event will be an opportunity for our church family to celebrate the joy and companionship our pets bring into our lives.
All pets are welcome: dogs, cats, snakes, horses, and even stuffed animals. If you can transport it, we can bless it.
Senior Seminars
The pastoral care ministry team has brought in experts to lead three senior seminar sessions this fall for senior and their caregivers. We hope you will join us!
To register call the church office at 770.469.5856.
Medicare 101
Wednesday, October 1 from 3:30-5:00 PM Room 223- Keith Nabb
Senior Care 101
Wednesday, October 8 at 4:00-5:00 PM Room 223 – Shelby Rush
Understanding Dementia
Wednesday, October 15 from 4:00-5:00 PM Room 223 – Shelby Rush
WEDNESDAY
EVENING ACTIVITIES
Join us for Fellowship Dinner from 5:00–6:00 PM, followed by activities for all ages from 6:00–7:00 PM.
This Weeks Menu (9/24)
Chicken Pot Pie, Baked Chicken, Chicken Tenders, Green Beans, Broccoli, Salad, and Dessert
Dinner Pricing
Adults $8; Children (10 and under) $3
Vegetable Plate $7; Takeout $8.50
Immediate Family Maximum $25
To learn more visit smokerisebaptist.org/journeys/
Senior Seminar Overview
September 24
Wednesdays at 6 PM
Fellowship Hall
Led by Jim Smith and Mitzi Ethridge-Cantrell
Stories of the Early Church
October 1-22
Wednesdays at 6 PM
Fellowship Hall
Led by Ebby Arnold
October 29 5-7 p.m.
Candy Donations
Candy is needed for Octoberfest. Please no chocolate or nuts. Donations can be brought to the church office.
We invite you to come learn about our mission partners and how you can support them through our annual World Mission Offering.
This year's offering seeks to have a direct impact on the people served by 11 of our missions partners. The leadership of each organization has identified a $5,000 project that will enable them to serve in ways it would not be possible otherwise.
Mission Sunday Schedule
9:00 AM 9:45 AM 11:00 AM
Academy of Arts Presents
Mission Fair and Breakfast in the Fellowship Hall Sunday School
Mission Sunday Worship Service
WORLD COMMUNION
The final show is today, September 21 at 2:00 PM Get your tickets at SmokeRiseBaptist.org/show/
SUNDAY
October 5 11:00 AM Worship Service
Ossie Williams will bring us our sermon on World Communion Sunday.
Women’s Mission Trip
October 12-17 | McDowell, KY
Cost: $300
(includes food, supplies, and transportation)
Register at smokerisebaptist.org /missions/womens-gap-trip/
Questions? Contact Carol Ann Fulgham at carolannfulgham@gmail.com
Donations Needed!
The women's mission trip will be taking donations to GAP, God's Appalachian Partnership, in Kentucky. This is a wonderful opportunity to support a long time mission partner!
Donations can be placed in the bins throughout the church by September 24.
Deodorant*
Tooth brushes
Toothpaste
Shampoo*
Conditioner*
Shaving cream Razors
Men’s Mission Trip
September 28 - October 3
McDowell, KY
Cost: $300
Learn more and register at smokerisebaptist.org/ missions/mens-gap-trip/
Soap Feminine Hygiene Products
*Men and Women's varieties needed.
Regardless of your skill level, there is a job for all. It is a time of fellowship, improving a family’s home, and sharing the love of Christ in one of the poorest areas of the country. Please contact Bill Blanton at 678.510.9390 for information regarding the trip.
The Smoke Rise Travel Team invites you on a church field trip.
A TOUR OF THE
Thursday, October 23
Leaving SRBC at 9:30 AM
$5 per person | Register in the Church Office
Join us for a tour of the American Baptist Historical Society on the Mercer Atlanta Campus in Tucker. Explore one of the nation’s largest collections of Baptist history and artifacts. Lunch will be “on your own” at the Old Hickory House before returning to the church.
FALL YOUTH RETREAT
WE ARE HEADED TO A YOUTH FALL RETREAT HOSTED BY CBF GA.
NOVEMBER 7-9
CAMP GLISSON IN DAHLONEGA, GA | COST: $100
REGISTER BY OCT. 5 AT SMOKERISEBAPTIST.ORG/YOUTH/
Youth Event
Parkview vs. brookwood
Football Game
Friday, Septemeber 26 | 7:00 PM
The youth will meet at Parkview to enjoy the game together.
youth lazor tag
A MIDDLE SCHOOL EVENT
GLOW GAMES
Middle Schoolers are invitied to Stars and Strikes for time at the arcade and laser tag!
