# St. John’s United Church of Christ **Chambersburg, PA** **February 9, 2025** https://www.youtube.com/live/LY23v1FdM30?si=MMl4_Kno0S1Mvztm ```embed title: "Fetching" image: "data:image/svg+xml;base64,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" description: "Fetching https://www.youtube.com/live/LY23v1FdM30?si=MMl4_Kno0S1Mvztm" url: "https://www.youtube.com/live/LY23v1FdM30?si=MMl4_Kno0S1Mvztm" ``` ## FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY *Please stand in body or in spirit* ### 🎶 Gathering Song: *This is the Day* ### ✨ Unison Welcome > "No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here." ### 📢 Announcements ### 🤝 Passing of the Peace > “The peace of Christ be with you.” > “And also with you.” ### 🔔 Chiming of the Trinity ### 🎼 Prelude **“Lead On, O King Eternal”** – *arr. Ron Mallory* Performed by **The Bells of St. John’s** ## ⛪ Call to Worship *Adapted from Feasting on the Word Worship Companion* > In the sanctuary, God, the Holy One, whose glory fills the whole earth, calls us. > Beside the sea, along ordinary paths, in our daily work, God calls us. > We have come from different backgrounds on various roads to get here. > But we are all here seeking an experience of the holy. > Listen for the promise of God’s steadfast love and God’s faithfulness. > **We are listening for God's call in our lives.** ### 🎵 Hymn #482: *Here I Am, Lord* #### Verse 1 I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry. All who dwell in deepest sin My hand will save. I who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright. Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send? #### Chorus **Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?** I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart. #### Verse 2 I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people's pain. I have wept for love of them. They turn away. I will break their hearts of stone, Give them hearts for love alone. I will speak my word to them, Whom shall I send? #### Chorus **Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?** I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart. #### Verse 3 I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame. I will set a feast for them. My hand will save. Finest bread I will provide Till their hearts be satisfied. I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? #### Chorus **Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?** I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart. ## 🙏 Call to Confession *From Feasting on the Word Worship Companion* > Let us turn to the most Holy One and confess our sin, > confident in God’s faithful and steadfast love for us. ### 📖 Prayer of Confession *From Feasting on the Word Worship Companion* > O God, though we walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve and deliver us. > Though our lips are not clean and our hearts are not pure, you call us. > Forgive us, we pray, when we wander away from you, lost and at risk. > Forgive us when our lives do not reflect your glory and the purposes you intend. > Help us to comprehend your ways in the world. > We long to feel your grace and glory, > for in you, Emmanuel, we can be healed and set free. > **In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.** ### 🎶 Kyrie *Hymnal Companion C-4* ### ASSURANCE OF FORGIVENESS *Adapted from Feasting on the Word Worship Companion* The promise is this: God is faithful and steadfast, eager to forgive our sin and welcome us home. Grateful for this promise of joy and of peace, let us with others these good gifts. ### GLORY BE TO THE FATHER #704 ### SCRIPTURE READING **Isaiah 6:1-8 (NRSVUE)** 1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. 2 Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3 And one called to another and said: > “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; > the whole earth is full of his glory.” 4 The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke. 5 And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!” 6 Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. 7 The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.” 8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!” ### RESPONSIVE READING **Psalm 138 (The Inclusive Bible)** I thank you with all my heart; I sing your praise before the gods. I bow down in front of your holy Temple and praise your Name because of your love and faithfulness, for you have put above everything else your Name and your word. When I called, you answered me—you made me bold and strong of heart. All the rulers of the earth will praise you, YHWH, when they hear the words of your mouth. They will sing about what you have done, YHWH, and about your great glory. Even though you are so high above, you care for the lowly and see arrogant people from far away. Even when I’m surrounded by troubles, you keep me safe; you oppose the anger of my enemies, and save me with your right hand. You will do everything you have promised me. YHWH, your love is eternal; don’t abandon the work of your hands. ### ANTHEM #### Amazing Grace **Traditional Hymn | Arr. John Leavitt, Jr.** #### 🎶 Lyrics **Verse 1** Amazing grace! How sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, Was blind, but now I see. **Verse 2** ’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, And grace my fears relieved; How precious did that grace appear The hour I first believed. **Verse 3** The Lord has promised good to me, His word my hope secures; He will my shield and portion be As long as life endures. **Verse 4** Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come; ’Tis grace has brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home. **Verse 5** *(Commonly included in later versions)* When we’ve been there ten thousand years, Bright shining as the sun, We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise Than when we first begun. --- #### 📖 Notes - **Arranger**: John Leavitt, Jr. - **Original lyrics**: John Newton (1779) - **Traditional Tune**: *New Britain* - Often sung in churches and adapted for choral arrangements. - This version may have unique harmonizations, key changes, or instrumental interludes. --- *For choral versions, check John Leavitt's published arrangements for additional harmonic and dynamic markings.* ### CHILDREN’S MESSAGE **Roxanne Davenport** *Children’s Corner will be offered following the Children’s Message* #### 02-09 Lecture: St. Peter's Fishing Story and Asking for Help > Date & Time: 2025-02-09 10:24:24 > Location: [Insert Location] > [Insert Title] `St. Peter's fishing story` `SOS symbol` `Asking for help` ##### Theme This lecture explores the biblical story of St. Peter's miraculous fishing experience, the significance of the SOS symbol in Morse code, and the challenges of asking for help. It emphasizes the importance of support and communication, drawing lessons from the Gospel of Luke, chapter 5. The lecture highlights the difficulty many face in admitting they need help and the value of mutual support. ##### Takeaways 1. St. Peter's fishing story 2. Jesus' call to follow him 3. SOS symbol and Morse code 4. Asking for help is difficult 5. Gospel of Luke, chapter 5 ##### Highlights - `"Asking for help is hard."` ##### Chapters & Topics ###### St. Peter's fishing story > A biblical story where Jesus instructs St. Peter to cast his nets again after an unsuccessful fishing attempt, resulting in a miraculous catch. - **Keypoints** - St. Peter initially caught nothing. - Jesus instructed him to try again. - The result was an overwhelming catch of fish. ###### SOS symbol and Morse code > SOS is a distress signal in Morse code, consisting of three short flashes, three long flashes, and three short flashes. - **Keypoints** - SOS is used to signal distress. - Morse code was used historically for communication. - Each letter in Morse code has a specific pattern. ###### Asking for help > The difficulty many people face in admitting they need help and the importance of supporting each other. - **Keypoints** - Admitting the need for help is challenging. - It may become easier with age. - Supporting each other is crucial. ##### Topics & Conclusions ###### Faith and Guidance 1. Jesus instructs St. Peter to cast his nets again, resulting in a miraculous catch of fish, symbolizing faith and divine guidance. 2. Jesus calls his followers to transition from fishing for fish to fishing for people, indicating a shift in purpose and mission. ###### Communication and Help 1. The SOS signal, consisting of three short, three long, and three short flashes, is a universal distress signal used to communicate the need for help. 2. Morse code, a historical communication method, assigns specific patterns to each letter, with SOS being a notable example. 3. Asking for help is challenging, but it becomes more common as people age and support each other. ###### Biblical References and Lessons 1. The story of Simon Peter and the miraculous catch is from the Gospel of Luke, chapter 5, illustrating themes of faith and divine intervention. ### SCRIPTURE READING **Luke 5:1-11 (NRSVUE)** 1 Once while Jesus was standing beside the Lake of Gennesaret and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, 2 he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gotten out of them and were washing their nets. 3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. 4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered, “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.” 6 When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to burst. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’s knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all who were with him were astounded at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” 11 When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him. ### SERMON **Rev. Caroline E. Saxton** #### 02-09 Lecture: Jesus' Call and Evangelism > Date & Time: 2025-02-09 10:30:31 > Location: [Insert Location] > [Insert Title] `Jesus` `evangelism` `justice` #### Theme This lecture explores the biblical story of Jesus calling his first disciples by Lake Genesaret, emphasizing the miraculous catch of fish and the invitation to become fishers of people. It discusses the importance of justice and love in Christian practice, the dual nature of evangelism, and the historical misuse of Christianity. The lecture calls for a compassionate approach to evangelism, rooted in love and justice, and highlights the significance of prayer and action in the Christian faith. #### Takeaways 1. Jesus calls his disciples by the Lake Genesaret. 2. Simon Peter, James, and John are amazed by the miraculous catch of fish. 3. Jesus invites them to become fishers of people. 4. The importance of following Jesus and being anglers for justice. 5. The role of evangelism and its positive and negative connotations. 6. The historical misuse of Christianity in the context of the slave trade. 7. The need for love and justice in Christian practice. 8. The significance of prayer and action in the Christian faith. #### Highlights - `"We can show people that a hateful Christian is an oxymoron because hate cannot be our guide, not if Jesus is truly at the center."` #### Chapters & Topics ##### Jesus calls his disciples > The story of Jesus calling his first disciples, Simon Peter, James, and John, by the Lake Genesaret, where they experience a miraculous catch of fish. - **Keypoints** - Jesus teaches from Simon's boat. - Simon Peter is initially doubtful but obeys Jesus' command. - The miraculous catch of fish amazes the fishermen. - Jesus invites them to become fishers of people. - **Explanation** Jesus uses the miraculous catch of fish to demonstrate his divine authority and to call Simon Peter, James, and John to follow him. This event signifies the beginning of their journey as his disciples, leaving everything behind to embrace a new mission. ##### Anglers for justice > The concept of being anglers for justice, following Jesus' example of seeking out those who labor and offering them an alternative to oppressive systems. - **Keypoints** - Jesus seeks out ordinary people to follow him. - The call to be fishers of people involves spreading Jesus' message. - The importance of justice and love in Christian practice. - **Explanation** The lecture emphasizes the need for Christians to follow Jesus' example by advocating for justice and love. This involves recognizing and challenging oppressive systems and inviting others to experience the transformative power of Jesus' message. ##### Evangelism and its connotations > The dual nature of evangelism, which can be both positive and negative, depending on how it is practiced. - **Keypoints** - Evangelism is often associated with spreading the joy of following Jesus. - There have been instances where evangelism has been misused. - The need for careful and loving evangelism. - **Explanation** The lecture discusses the importance of approaching evangelism with care and caution, ensuring that it is rooted in love and justice. It acknowledges the historical misuse of Christianity, particularly in the context of the slave trade, and calls for a more compassionate approach. ##### Assignments & Suggestions #### Topics & Conclusions ###### Jesus' Teachings and Miracles 1. Jesus taught crowds from Simon's boat and performed a miracle by filling the nets with fish, demonstrating his divine power and authority. 2. Jesus called Simon Peter, James, and John to follow him, transforming them from fishermen to "fishers of people," symbolizing a new mission in life. ###### Personal Reflection and Faith 1. The narrative encourages believers to see themselves in the disciples' place, willing to leave everything to follow Jesus. 2. The call to be "fishers of people" is a call to evangelism, urging Christians to spread Jesus' message with love and caution. 3. The text reflects on the misuse of Christianity in history, particularly in the context of the slave trade, and emphasizes the need for a faith centered on love and justice. #### Social Justice and Evangelism 1. Jesus' message offers an alternative to oppressive systems, inviting followers to seek justice and freedom. 2. The concept of being "anglers for justice" is highlighted, encouraging Christians to stand up for what is right and just, following Jesus' example. 3. The importance of prayer and action is emphasized, suggesting that both are necessary for effective evangelism and social justice. 4. The narrative draws on the legacy of spiritual leaders like Moses and Deborah, who led people towards freedom and justice. 1. The text calls for Christians to embody love and justice, showing that a hateful Christian contradicts the essence of Jesus' teachings. ### **Sermon Analysis** #### **🗒 Sermon Summary** - **Central Message**: The central message of the sermon is about following Jesus and becoming "fishers of people," emphasizing justice, inclusion, and the transformative power of faith. It highlights the call to leave behind systems of oppression and embrace a life of spiritual and social justice. - **Liturgical/Thematic Focus**: The sermon ties into the theme of discipleship and evangelism, focusing on Jesus' call to his first disciples and extending that call to contemporary believers to engage in justice and inclusion. #### **🎙 Preaching Style** - **Style**: The sermon is primarily narrative, using the biblical story of Jesus calling his disciples as a framework to discuss broader themes of justice and inclusion. - **Diverse Stories/Examples**: The preacher uses personal anecdotes, historical references, and biblical narratives to make the message inclusive and relatable. - **Learning Needs**: The sermon primarily uses storytelling, which caters to auditory learners. There is no mention of visuals or interactive engagement for other learning styles. #### **🗣 Intonation and Delivery** - **Vocal Delivery**: The preacher's vocal delivery is not explicitly detailed, but the narrative style suggests a potentially engaging and dynamic delivery. - **Tone**: The tone appears welcoming and inclusive, focusing on themes of justice and community. - **Tone and Pace**: There is no specific mention of varied tone and pace, but the narrative style likely includes natural variations to maintain engagement. - **Gestures/Visuals**: There is no mention of gestures or visuals used during the sermon. #### **📝 Content Structure** - **Organization**: The sermon is well-organized, with a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion centered around the biblical narrative. - **Transitions**: Transitions between points are smooth, using the biblical story as a cohesive thread. - **Support for Learning**: The structure supports learning through repetition of key themes, though there is no mention of visual aids or summaries. #### **👥 Engagement and Application** - **Engagement**: The sermon engages the congregation by addressing themes of justice and inclusion, relevant to marginalized groups. - **Practical Applications**: It encourages promoting equity and dismantling injustice, though specific interactive elements are not mentioned. - **Interactive Elements**: There is no mention of interactive elements like reflection or discussion. #### **📖 Scripture Breakdown** - **Scriptures Referenced**: The primary scripture is the story of Jesus calling his disciples (Luke 5:1-11). - **Emphasis on Equity/Justice**: The scripture is used to emphasize Jesus' call to justice and inclusion, inviting followers to become "fishers of people" in a just and equitable manner. - **Theological Implications**: The sermon connects the scripture to themes of liberation and justice, aligning with the sermon's key messages. #### **Logical Reasoning** - **Strong Arguments**: The sermon uses sound deductive reasoning by logically connecting Jesus' call to his disciples with contemporary calls to justice and inclusion. - **Logical Consistency**: The narrative is consistent, using the biblical story as a foundation for broader social and spiritual themes. - **Suggestions for Improvement**: To enhance clarity, the sermon could include more explicit examples of how to apply these themes in daily life. #### **📚 References** - **Additional Resources**: There is no mention of additional resources or theologians referenced during the sermon. - **Voices from Marginalized Communities**: The sermon does not explicitly reference voices from marginalized communities. #### **🗨 Quotes and Illustrative Stories** - **Impactful Quotes**: Specific quotes are not highlighted, but the narrative of Jesus calling his disciples is central. - **Illustrative Stories**: The sermon uses the biblical story and personal anecdotes to connect with broader themes. - **Connection to Themes**: These stories effectively connect with themes of justice, inclusion, and discipleship. ### **🔄 Calls to Action** - **Specific Calls to Action**: The sermon encourages listeners to follow Jesus' example and become "fishers of people" for justice. - **Encouragement for Equity**: It encourages steps toward equity and supporting marginalized communities. - **Accommodation for Learning Needs**: Calls to action are presented through narrative, with no mention of visual or hands-on engagement. ### SHARING OF JOYS AND CONCERNS # 02-09 Weekly Meeting: Community Prayers and Support > Date & Time: 2025-02-09 10:45:12 > Location: [Insert Location] > Attendees: [Insert Names] ## Overview This document outlines the meeting notes from February 9, 2025, focusing on community prayers, celebrations, worship reflections, and offerings. It also consolidates action items related to ongoing support and celebrations within the community. ## Prayers and Community Support - **Recognition of Worth and Dignity**: Emphasized the need to recognize the inherent worth and dignity, the "imambo Dei" or image of God, in every person, especially those marginalized by society. - **Barbara Soper's Recovery**: Shared news about Barbara Soper, who fractured her hip last Sunday evening. She underwent surgery on Tuesday and is now in rehab at Luther Ridge. Prayers for her healing and motivation were offered. - **Congregational Support**: Pete and Lisa expressed gratitude for the congregation's prayers, calls, and visits, highlighting them as signs of care. - **Friend with Autoimmune Disease**: Prayers requested for a friend hospitalized with an autoimmune disease, with doctors struggling to find a solution. - **Cindy St. Clair's New Grandson**: Congratulations extended to Cindy St. Clair on the birth of a healthy grandson, marking the first member of a new generation in their family. - **Prayers for Help and Wisdom**: Reflected on the times when we ask for help for ourselves, loved ones, or communities in distress. Emphasized the importance of seeking wisdom and strength. - **Expressions of Awe and Gratitude**: Encouraged moments of awe and gratitude for the blessings received, even when words fail us. ## Worship and Offerings - **Prayer in Jesus' Name**: Concluded with a communal prayer, invoking the words taught by Jesus, emphasizing forgiveness, deliverance from evil, and the eternal kingdom. - **Invitation to Give**: Encouraged the congregation to cast their nets into God's abundance and share their tithes and offerings, trusting in Jesus Christ. ## Action Items - [ ] Continue prayers and support for Barbara Soper's recovery. - [ ] Offer prayers for the friend with an autoimmune disease. - [ ] Celebrate and support Cindy St. Clair and her family on the birth of her grandson. > **AI Suggestion** > AI has identified the following issues that were not concluded in the meeting or lack clear action items; please pay attention: > 1. Doctors are struggling to find a solution for a friend hospitalized with an autoimmune disease. Further discussion is needed to explore potential support or resources that could assist in finding a resolution. > 2. Clarification is needed on specific ways the congregation can assist during Barbara Soper's rehabilitation at Luther Ridge, beyond offering prayers and support. > 3. There is a risk of burnout or insufficient support within the congregational support system if the needs of individuals like Barbara Soper and the friend with an autoimmune disease are not adequately met. Identifying additional volunteers or resources may be necessary to sustain this support system. > 4. Details on how the congregation can participate in celebrating and supporting Cindy St. Clair and her family on the birth of her grandson are unclear and need to be clarified. ## Topics & Conclusions ### Community Prayers and Support 1. Prayers are offered for recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals, especially those marginalized. 2. Prayers are extended for Barbara Soper's recovery after hip surgery, with gratitude for community support. 3. Prayers are requested for a friend hospitalized with an autoimmune disease, seeking healing and guidance. ### Celebrations and Gratitude 1. Congratulations are extended to Cindy St. Clair on the birth of a healthy grandson, celebrating new life. 2. Gratitude is expressed for the blessings received, with a call to remain in awe of divine grace. ### Faith and Worship 1. Worship includes a call for wisdom and strength in times of need, trusting in divine support. 2. The Lord's Prayer is recited, emphasizing forgiveness, provision, and deliverance from evil. 3. An invitation is made to share resources generously, trusting in divine abundance and guidance. ### PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER *(Debts)* ### INVITATION TO GIVING ### OFFERTORY **“Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers”** (arr. Anna Laura Page) *The Bells of St. John’s* ### OFFERTORY RESPONSE **#706 “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”** ### PRAYER OF DEDICATION *From Feasting on the Word Worship Companion* Holy God, we give you thanks for your generosity to us. Bless these gifts and multiply them, for the sake of those in need around us; in Jesus’ name. Amen. ### HYMN #486 #### Jesus Calls Us O’er the Tumult **Lyrics: Cecil Frances Alexander (1852)** **Tune: RESTORATION / GALILEE** ##### 🎶 Lyrics ###### Verse 1 Jesus calls us o’er the tumult Of our life’s wild, restless sea; Day by day His sweet voice soundeth, Saying, “Christian, follow me.” ###### Verse 2 Jesus calls us from the worship Of the vain world’s golden store, From each idol that would keep us, Saying, “Christian, love Me more.” ###### Verse 3 In our joys and in our sorrows, Days of toil and hours of ease, Still He calls, in cares and pleasures, “Christian, love Me more than these.” ###### Verse 4 Jesus calls us: by Your mercies, Savior, may we hear Your call, Give our hearts to full obedience, Serve and love You best of all. --- ###### 🎼 Musical Notes - **Original Lyrics**: Cecil Frances Alexander (1852) - **Common Tunes**: RESTORATION (William Walker’s *Southern Harmony*, 1835) & GALILEE - Often used in traditional and contemporary hymnals. - Can be sung a cappella, with organ accompaniment, or modern instrumental arrangements. --- ###### 📖 Scripture Reference Inspired by **Matthew 4:18-22**, where Jesus calls Simon Peter and Andrew to become fishers of men. --- *For choral arrangements or variations, check hymnals that include RESTORATION or GALILEE settings.* ### COMMISSION & BENEDICTION ### POSTLUDE *(seated)* --- ### WORSHIP PARTICIPANTS - **Pastor:** Rev. Caroline E. Saxton - **Organist:** Barbara Motichka - **Deacon in Charge:** Peg Bryner - **Lector:** Connie Kaiser - **Children’s Corner:** Roxanne Davenport - **Media Coordinators:** Calvin Frantz and Ginny Cairns ### ANNOUNCEMENTS - **Congregational Meeting**: Following worship in Room 116, lunch at 11:30 AM. - **Birthdays This Week**: - 2/10 Gregory St. Clair - 2/11 Colleen Woy - 2/12 Christopher William-Bunge - 2/13 Richard Collier ### UPCOMING EVENTS - **Bible Study:** “Jesus is the Question” continues Mondays at 1:30 PM. - **Yoga:** Tuesdays at 5:30 PM. - **Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner:** March 4, 5:30 PM. --- **St. John’s Vision:** > We are called to love, to learn, to worship, and to witness in Christ > as a congregation that welcomes everyone and seeks service > that will advance God’s realm on earth. **St. John’s Mission:** > To grow in love of God and neighbor. ---