Opening Prayer

God of all times and places, we have come to this place to be your people. You have called to us, and we feel a deep longing to know you, to hear you speak to us, to be your church. With your help, may we see and hear what you have to say to us. Open our eyes and ears and hearts to know the brightness of your glory. Amen.

Prayer of Confession

Gracious God, Creator of the universe, we imagine that we are in familiar territory, that we know what to expect of  this hour, that we will leave much the way that we came. Do not abandon us to our foolishness. In judgment, illumine our darkness. In mercy, bear us home—until we recognize your presence wherever evil is confronted, truth is spoken and life is restored. Accept our prayer this day, renew and strengthen us in Your Spirit, we pray in Christ’s name. Amen.

Readings

• New Testament Lesson: I Timothy 1: 12-17
• Gospel Lesson: Luke 15: 1-10

Hymns

Welcome back to the Chancel Choir! 

• No. 144 – Alleluia! Sing to Jesus!
• No. 356 – Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
• No. 145 – Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart!

Solo performance by Jenna Carmichael, soprano

Sacrament of Holy Baptism

Sermon

“Where is the Fairness in the Grace of God?” – Rev. Scott G. Loomer

Download the Worship bulletin for Sunday, September 15th