March 24, 2016

Gathering Reflection

The events of Holy Week make up the central story of our faith.

Can we see the suffering of others in our world in the passion of Jesus?

What are some ways that the daughters and sons of humanity are crucified today? How are we called to respond?

Worship Outline

*Call to Worship

One: This is a day of remembrance for us.

All: We lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.

One: Throughout the generations, we have received and handed on to others what the Lord has given to us:

All: the bread of his body; the cup of the new covenant; proclaiming the Lord’s death until he comes again.

*Opening Psalm Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19

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

in The Faith We Sing

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

*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.

Scripture John 13:1-17, 31-35

Hymn ‘Jesu, Jesu” #432

Prayer of Confession

In all humility and faith in the grace of God, let us confess our sin.

Holy and gracious God, our sin is too heavy to bear.

Trusting in your mercy, we lay before you the truth of who we are.

We confess our failure to love as Christ loved . . .

We confess our covetousness and greed . . .

We confess our weakness before temptation . . .

We confess our frailty before the challenges of this world . . .

Merciful God, forgive us.

Heal us, and make us whole,

for the sake of your Son, our Savior,

Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Declaration of Forgiveness

*Passing of the Peace

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

EXPERIENCING THE PASSION

Scripture Mark 15:22-39

Closing Hymn “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” #298

Benediction