March 28, 2013

7:30pm

Gathering Meditation

Seldom have the apparent fortunes of any historical figure changed as quickly

and dramatically as did those of Jesus in the last week of his life.

The events of the last twenty-four hours of Jesus’ life would test those closest

to him, and they would fail. Judas would betray Jesus; Peter would deny him;

and the disciples would dessert him, leaving Jesus utterly alone as he faced trial

at the hands of his enemies. But Jesus looked past their betrayal, their sins, and

their failures and called them his friends. We take comfort in the knowledge that

he will do that for us as well.”

- Adam Hamilton

Twenty-Four Hours That Changed the World

*Opening Prayer (Unison)

Gratefully, O Lord, we recall that it was on a night like this that Christ

gathered with his friends to dine, to sing, and to celebrate the Passover.

As we remember and celebrate how it became our Holy Communion,

may the Spirit of Christ be with us. In his name. Amen.

*Hymn “As We Gather at Your Table” #2268

in The Faith We Sing

(To the tune of #605 in U.M. Hymnal)

Scripture John 13:1-17, 31b-35

Hymn ‘Jesu, Jesu” #432

Silent Prayer

Scripture Exodus 12:1-14

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Devotion

*Communion Litany

Leader: This table is a meal of fellowship.

People: The bread and the wine unite us.

Leader: This table is a meal of remembering.

People: The bread and the wine remind us.

Leader: This table is a meal of challenge.

People: The bread and the wine beckon to us to become one.

Leader: This table is a meal of hope.

People: The bread and the wine comfort us.

Leader: This table is a meal of fellowship.

People: Let us gather round, all of us, and share in God's blessings.

*Hymn ‘You Satisfy the Hungry Heart” #629

Celebrating The Last Supper

Communion Hymn “Let Us Break Bread Together” #618

Pastoral Prayer

Hymn “Now Let Us from This Table Rise” #634

Benediction