Won't you be my
neighbor?
Lilburn Co-op • NETWorks Co-op Friends of Refugees • Family Heritage Foundation Developmental Disabilities Ministries
THE WORSHIP OF GOD
OCTOBER 18, 2026 · 11:00 AM ~ The Season of Ordinary Time MISSION SUNDAY
"The marvelous vision of the peaceable Kingdom, in which all violence has been overcome and all men, women, and children live in loving unity with nature, calls for its realization in our day-to-day lives….We must remind one another constantly of the vision.” - Henri Nouwen
CHIMING OF THE HOUR WELCOME TO WORSHIPERS.......................................................................Dr. Chris George
Senior Pastor
Come, all Christians, be committed to the service of the Lord; make your lives for Him more fitted, tune your hearts with one accord. Come into His courts with gladness, each His sacred vows renew, turn away from sin and sadness, be transformed with life anew.
ORGAN PRELUDE Share His Love..............................................................Arranged by Mary Ellen Kerrick CALL TO WORSHIP.......................................................................................Rev. Bart McNiel
Associate Pastor
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news. Who publish peace, who bring good tidings, who publish salvation, and proclaim, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” God will judge among many peoples, and they shall beat their swords into plowshares and nation shall not lift up sword against nation: neither shall they learn war any more. Let us lift up our voices and praise the God of peace and justice.
INVOCATION........................................................................................................Rev. McNiel
LIGHTING OF THE CANDLES AND OPENING OF THE BIBLE †
PROCESSIONAL HYMN 479 O Zion, Haste.................................................................................................TIDINGS God’s command to love each other is required of everyone; showing mercy to another mirrors His redeeming Son. In compassion He has given of His love that is divine; on the cross sins were forgiven; joy and peace are fully thine.
RESPONSIVE READING........................................................................................Dr. George With what shall we come before the Lord? What shall we bring into the presence of our God, as an expression of our worship and praise? Shall we bring Him all that we own—our finest possessions, our life savings, our investments and property? Would God be satisfied if we brought everything we possess? No, that’s not what God is looking for. God has told you what is good, and what God expects of you: To do justice. To love mercy. To walk humbly before your God.
̶ Based on Micah 6:8
CHORAL MUSIC Let Us Not Become Weary……………………………Music by Benjamin Kornelis Words based on Galatians 6:9-10a and Micah 6:8b Jennifer Langley, soloist
Let us not become weary, weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
PASTORAL PRAYER WITH OUR LORD’S PRAYER.........................Rev. Rebecca Caswell-Speight
Minister of Families and Faith Formation
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. †
HYMN O God, You Call For Justice ......................................................................AURELIA
Sung to the same tune as “The Church’s One Foundation”
Words by Rev. Carolyn Winfrey Gillette
At this time children, ages three through 2nd grade will depart for Godly Play in room 207.
O God, You call for justice — for goodness, never greed! You seek a world of fairness where all have what they need — where all have food and water and homes in which to thrive, where all have hope and laughter and joy to be alive! O God, You call for kindness instead of keeping score; You seek a world that welcomes the hungry and the poor. Lord, where there is injustice may we work to protect the struggling ones, the voiceless that others would reject. You call us to walk humbly, for we are not our own; we all are poor and needy; we need the grace You've shown. May we respond to others reflecting what You give — compassion, kindness, justice — so all may gladly live. O God, may our great nation seek justice, as we should, and work with dedication to seek the common good. We're blessed to be a blessing; may we within our law seek justice and compassion that reaches out to all. Give your time and talents daily, they are gifts from God above, to be used by Christians freely to proclaim His wondrous love. Come again to serve the Savior, tithes and offerings with you bring. In your work, with Him find favor, and with joy His praises sing.
OFFERTORY PRAYER............................................................................................Dr. George PIANO DUET Lord, Here Am I....................................................................Arranged by Mark Hayes Come in praise and adoration, all who on Christ’s name believe. Worship Him with consecration, grace and love you will receive. For His grace give Him the glory, for the Spirit and the Word, and repeat the gospel story till mankind His name has heard.
SCRIPTURE READING I Thessalonians 1:1-10....................................................................... Dr. Jim Smith
Pastoral Care Associate
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. 2We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly 3remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you, 5because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake. 6And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for in spite of persecution you received the word with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit, 7so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith in God has become known, so that we have no need to speak about it. 9For the people of those regions report about us what kind of welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, 10and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead— Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath that is coming. 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!
SERMON
A People of Memory and Mission
Rev. Jeremiah Hamby Minister of Youth and Missions
†
HYMN 488 Come, All Christians, Be Committed................................................BEACH SPRING PARTING WORDS.............................................................................................Rev. Hamby ORGAN POSTLUDE "Festival Postlude on 'Beach Spring'".....................................arr. Craig Phillips RECESSIONAL
†
All who are able are invited to stand.
Heather Huff, pianist; Judy Parker, associate organist
Please visit our mission partners in the narthex today. Lilburn Cooperative Ministry Networks Cooperative Ministry Family Heritage Foundation Friends of Refugees Developmental Disabilities Ministries (DDM)
We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Won't you be my neighbor? This year our missions focus is on local missions, our closest neighbors, and how we serve and connect with them. We as a church community are intentional neighbors with several amazing organizations serving different needs in our surrounding communities. These organizations include Lilburn Co-op, NETWorks Co-op, Friends of Refugees, Family Heritage Foundation, and Developmental Disabilities Ministries. Please prayerfully consider giving towards our World Missions Offering to support these neighbors in ministry. This year, our goal is to raise $50,000 and split the offering between our five local ministry partners, meaning each would receive $10,000 to further their ministry work. Given the prevalent needs in our area, offering this gift to our partners would be greatly appreciated and help them as they work to meet the needs of many neighbors.
Scan the QR code to learn more and give!
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 October 14, 2026 at 9:00 am
Hospice
Gloria Adams Jeanie Duvall Elaine Headley Dee Dee Poss
Home Care
Janet Benford Brenda Brantly Lillian Gulley Frances Maughon Sandra McNiel Carolyn Springston Graham Stovall Ken Underwood
Rehabilitation/Assisted Living/Long Term Care Martha Albertson Shirley Baskin David Bishop, Sr. Lois Brecht Claudie Brown Lynn Buckhalt Nancy Davis Peggy Duke Carol Freeman JoAnne Frith
Shirley Furr Carol and Mark Gaines Carol Hand Jim Harris Mike Holcomb Bob Knell Jan Lammert Marilyn Lunsford Warren Mason Dixie Meister Donna Metz Nita Mitchell Mary Ruth Parham **Pete Seay Pat Thompson Sally Tutterow Bobbie Wehner Don Wells June Anne Wheeler
Concerns
Jimmy Abner’s friend, Judy Wilson Jean Ballew's daughter, Kim Gwyned Bius Terry Cantrell's sister, Sherry Sally Cates Robert Cherry Jane Cummins' son-in-law, Larry Beebe Carol Densford **Paul Durden Lynne Felton’s niece, Megan Finch Gerri Fullerton's family Joel Harrison Ben and Sandra Hawkins William Henry’s sister, Ellen Chapman Mike Holt Rhonda and Errol Hough Sandy Huff ’s sister, Nancy Prescott Lynne Ginn's neighbor, Cane Norma Green Milly Jenkins Bob Jernigan Lou Jewell Charlotte Johnson’s son-in-law Jody Jones
John Jones' nephew, Randy Bolling John Jones' sister-in-law, Phyllis Hall Rob Keeny's wife, Barb Patrece Keeter Bob and Vicki King's grandson, Jack Jack Lane Nathan Langley Don McChesney’s brother-in-law, Bob Lewis Sue Miller Nancy Mitchell Lisa Mixon's sister-in-law, Leslie Taylor Alice Moore’s niece, Deanne Peacock Ken Morgan’s son-in-law, Brad Dennis Judy Parker's cousin, Terri Cottle Mike Pattillo Christine Peredney's friend, Felicia Rodgers Larry Phillips Joel Price Marcia Price Patricia Roney Sara Salvadore’s friend, Hugh Bennawitz
Prayer A PEOPLE OF
We invite you to pause, pray, and reflect.
Sara Salvadore’s friend, Erin O'Brian Alton and Kay Sims son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Kathy Debra Smith Kathy Smith Marie Solomon Jean and Mark Sowell's family friend, Michael Boswell Mark Sowell Wanda Stephenson Jim Still's niece's husband, Matt Francis Ernie Strauss' son and granddaughter Pat Thompson's son, Joel Thompson Thomas Watson's friend, Robert Reeves Jim Watson Sally Weaver's family Jim Wehner Bill Wright Academy of Arts teacher, Janet Chadwick Academy of Art's parent, Sarah Skinner
God of All Hope, When we look out at the world around us, strengthen us in your hope. May it keep us from growing weary and provide us a guiding light during the storms of life. Let it surround and inspire us as we spread your gospel and seek to make real the words “may your kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven.” Amen
Weekly Schedule
Our Church Calendar
Sunday 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 Wednesday 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
October Events 18
Mission Sunday
Grief Support
25
19
20
21
22
23
Neurodiversity Caregivers Group
26
24 Mosaic
Gathering
Service Day - Friends of Refugees
27
28
Deacon Election
29
30
31
6
7
Octoberfest
November Events 1
2 All Saints' Day
8
Deacon Ordination
3
5
Faithful Voices
9
Academy of Arts Show
10
11
16
Grief Support Neurodiversity Caregivers Group
17
12
13
Men's Prayer Lunch
Ladies Event
Church in Conference
15
4
18
19
Virtual Caregivers Support Group
14 Youth Fall Retreat
20
21 Youth Friendsgiving
Faithful Voices Monday, November 2 10:30 am | Chapel Once a month come and lift your voice in praise as we celebrate through music and fellowship. All are welcome!
Grief Support Group October 18 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.
NEURODIVERSITY
CAREGIVERS GROUP
October 19 | 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.
Smoke Rise Young Adults
October 24 | 9:30 am Mint Coffeehouse Young Adults are invited to Coffee Boat for a time of fellowship each month.
November 12 | 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.
Virtual Caregivers Support Group Are you currently caring for a loved one? You don't have to walk this journey alone. Senior Provisions invites family caregivers to our free online Caregiver Support Group on the third Thursday of each month from 10:00-11:00 a.m. For more information contact Mitzi EthridgeCantrell, Pastoral Care Associate, at mecantrell@smokerisebaptist.org
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 (10/21)
Meatloaf, chicken tenders, baked chicken, mashed potatoes, fried okra, green beans, salad, and dessert
Dinner Pricing
Adults $8; Children (10 and under) $3; Vegetable Plate $7; Takeout $8.50 Immediate Family Maximum $25
Youth Fall Retreat November 13-15, 2026 Cost: $100 Register by October 20 Register at smokerisebaptist.org/youth/
North Georgia Modurail Train Show In the Smoke Rise Gym
Sunday, October 18 12:15pm-5:00pm
To learn more visit smokerisebaptist.org/journeys/
Adventures in the Electronic Age October 21 Wednesdays at 6 PM | Fellowship Hall Led by our Smoke Rise Youth
The Composer Series
November 4-18 Wednesdays at 6 PM | Fellowship Hall Led by Rudy Wilson November 4 - Jason Payne November 11 - Gaye Bruce & Naomi Walker November 18 - Eric Nelson
Youth Friendsgiving Saturday, November 21 6:00-7:30pm
Find more details in your weekly youth ministry emails.
H O L I DAY
N OV E M B E R 1 0 6 :3 0 PM
This year's speaker is Julianne Clayton. She is a spiritual director, writer, and host of the remind{h}er podcast, which offers faith-inspired reflections for women with anxious hearts and distracted minds.
Tickets are $20
Tickets must be purchased through Mary Lynn Manley either in person on a Sunday morning or Wednesday evening, or you can email her at bunnydog55@comcast.net to reserve your seat.
Deacon Election We are currently in the process of forming our next Fellowship of Deacons. We will present their names for a church vote on October 25th.
Church in Conference November 8, we will gather in the Fellowship Hall after the worship service for our meeting and luncheon.
RSVP to the church office at mabner@smokerisebaptist.org or 770.469.5856. Meal Pricing: Adults $8; Children (10 and under) $3; Vegetable Plate $7; Takeout $8.50; Immediate Family Maximum $25
November 1
11:00 AM Worship On All Saints' Day, we remember those who have passed away from us in this place and gone before us into God’s presence. We pause to give thanks to God for their good lives.
Smoke r ise academy of Arts PRESENTS
November 6&7 at 7:00 PM Ticket Prices: Adults – $10 Kids (6-13) – $5 Preschoolers (0-5) – Free
Get your tickets at smokerisebaptist.org/show/ Candy Donations Candy is needed for Octoberfest. Please no chocolate or nuts. Donations can be brought to the church office.
October 28 5-7 p.m.
Volunteers Needed Anyone interested in volunteering for Octoberfest can contact MaryLynn Manley: (770) 925-7509, bunnydog55@comcast.net
Trunk or Treat • Inflatables • Face Painting Crafts • Door Prizes • BBQ Dinner Whale you help us?
SEAS THE CHANCE TO GIVE
The Weekday School is exctied to launch an easy way for you to contributeThe to Weekday our school! School is exctied to launch
Go to schoolstore.com search for Smoke Rise to Baptist Weekday an ,easy way for you to contribute School, scroll to Shop Merchants and let the shopping begin! You our school! Go to schoolstore.com, search can also donate gift cards that go directly forfor classroom supplies. Smoke Rise Baptist Weekday School, scroll to Shop Merchants and let the shopping begin! You can also donate gift cards that go
Thanksgiving with your Smoke Rise Family
November 23 at 6:00 PM Church Dinner
We welcome you to a time of good food and fellowship as we express our thankfulness for our wonderful church family.
Food Baskets
After dinner, we will gather in the gym to put together Thanksgiving baskets for NETWorks and the Lilburn Co-op. Food will be collected from, Sunday, October 25 - Wednesday, November 18. Collection bins will be located throughout the church and a box will in the church for gift card donations. ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
large can of sweet potatoes canned green beans canned corn canned fruit canned jellied cranberry sauce gravy packets (NO GLASS JARS) boxed stuffing
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
boxes of mac and cheese packages of cookies instant potato packets (NO BOXES) canned pie filling (apple or cherry) boxes of Jiffy pie crust muffin mix packets $20 Gift Cards (Kroger or Walmart)
Smoke Rise
Service Days Join us for the last service day this fall on October 24 at Friends of Refugees. RSVP at smokerisebaptist.org/missions/.
Remember Jesus Selected Sermons of Dr. J. Truett Gannon
The book can be purchased in the church office or on Amazon. With bulk pricing we are able to offer the book at a discounted rate in the church office.
Church Pricing Hardback - $30 Paperback - $15
All proceeds from the book will be donated to the J. Truett Gannon Endowment Fund at Smoke Rise Baptist Church. If you would like to contribute to the legacy fund scan the QR code below or visit smokerisebaptist.org/ truett/.
Amazon Pricing Hardback - $35 Paperback - $20
For more than two decades, Dr. J. Truett Gannon served the people of Smoke Rise Baptist Church with a pastor’s heart, a thoughtful theological voice, and a gift for preaching that met people in the realities of everyday life. Remember Jesus gathers a rich selection of his sermons, prayers, tributes, and pastoral reflections-preserving the warmth, wisdom, and quiet eloquence that shaped generations. Organized around enduring themes including the nature of God and Christ, suffering and tragedy, freedom and values, faith and daily living, and hope in the face of death, these messages speak with clarity and compassion to readers navigating life’s deepest questions. Gannon’s preaching is rooted in grace rather than guilt, conviction rather than condemnation, and the abiding presence of God rather than easy answers. With a foreword by Chris George, D.Min, and edited by Lisa M. Tilley, Ph.D., this collection offers longtime members a treasured return to a beloved pastor’s voice and introduces new readers to a ministry marked by authentic faith, pastoral care, and a simple, lasting invitation: remember Jesus.