FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
WELCOME TO OLDTOWN
North Attleborough, MA — February 4, 2018
Pastor & Teacher: The Rev. Kelly Thibeault
Pianist: Mrs. Joyce Sheppard
Welcome to the Oldtown Church!
We are so glad that you have chosen to worship with us today. We invite you to join in on the bold print in the bulletin and to stand as you are able any time you see a “*”. The restrooms are out the back door of the sanctuary to the right, as is the nursery in case your little one needs a walkabout. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and please join us for coffee and refreshments after worship!
Please remember to mute your devices during worship.
WE PREPARE
PRELUDE
INTROIT — “When Morning Gilds the Skies”
WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
TIME OF CENTERING
CALL TO WORSHIP
Praise the Lord!
With all our hearts, we will praise God’s holy name!
Praise the Lord!
We will never forget the good things God has done.
Praise the Lord!
All the earth — everyone, everywhere!
Praise the Lord!
Let us praise God together!
PRAYER OF INVOCATION
*HYMN C#25 — “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” (verses 1, 3, and 5)
*SHARING THE PEACE OF CHRIST
Open our eyes, Lord, we want to see Jesus,
To reach out and touch Him and say that we love Him.
Open our ears, Lord, and help us to listen.
Open our eyes, Lord, we want to see Jesus.
WE LISTEN
SCRIPTURE LESSONS
Psalm 146 (OT p.715)
SERMON — “Praise”
WE RESPOND
PREPARING OURSELVES FOR PRAYER
In moments like these, I sing out a song,
I sing out a love song to Jesus.
In moments like these, I lift up my hands.
I lift up my hands to the Lord.
Singing, “I love you, Lord.”
Singing, “I love you, Lord.”
Singing, “I love you, Lord. I love you.”
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE and the LORD’S PRAYER
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
OFFERING OF OUR GIFTS
GIFT OF SONG — “Praise Him! Praise Him!”
*THE DOXOLOGY
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Praise God all creatures here below.
Praise God above, ye heavenly host,
Creator, Christ, and Holy Ghost. Amen!
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
CELEBRATION OF COMMUNION
SONG OF PREPARATION
INVITATION
COMMUNION PRAYER
God be with you,
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them up to God.
Let us give thanks to God most high.
It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Let us pray…
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
ACCLAMATION OF FAITH
As we remember Christ’s promise not to drink of the fruit of the vine again until the heavenly banquet at the close of history, let us say boldly what we believe:
Christ has died! Christ is risen! Christ will come again.
BLESSING OF THE ELEMENTS
SHARING OF THE ELEMENTS
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
You have nourished us at this Table, God of abundance. So now send us out to live abundantly, sharing your love, your grace, and your peace, through the power of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
*SENDING HYMN C#23 — “Praise My Soul the God of Heaven” (verses 1, 3, and 5)
*BENEDICTION
*BENEDICTION RESPONSE
Sent forth by God’s blessing, our true faith confessing, the people of God from this dwelling take leave.
The service is ended, so now be extended the fruits of our worship in all who believe.
The seed of our teaching, receptive hearts reaching shall blossom in action for God and for all.
God’s grace did invite us, and love shall unite us, to work for God’s realm and to answer the call.
POSTLUDE
Please join us for coffee and fellowship in Maxcy Hall following worship!