Elmwood United
Reformed Church
Sunday 9th August 2020
It's A Matter Of Faith
Call to worship -Syreeta
Song: "I hear the Lord Passing By"
Opening Prayer -Julie
Let us pray,
Thank you Lord God for this opportunity for worship, for the freedom to be amongst your family Coming together this morning to praise you in the warmth of your embrace.
Thank you that in worship we can put aside, the uncertainties of this world and rest upon the certainties of your Kingdom, for your promises are not changeable as those of a politician might be, but immovable and eternal.
Thank you that we can bring to your feet all the hurts and fears that trouble us, and leave them there, knowing that your strength and assurance are all that we require.
Thank you that as we draw near in worship, we are transported from a world of concerns and fears, to a place where we can be at peace in your presence and find healing, wholeness and refreshment. Thank you Lord God for this opportunity to worship together.
Amen
The Lord's Prayer -Herman Jr
Song: 'Let There Be Love'
We come to a time in the service to share good news, birthdays, celebrations or anything good that God has done in your life.
While sharing the good news we will listen to another song.
Song: "Jesus take the Wheel"
Hebrews 11 v1-6 -Syreeta
Song: "Immortal, Invisible"
This morning's message is delivered by Pastor Bryan Byfield the theme is: 'It's A matter Of Faith'
Song: 'You deserve it'
Prayers of Intercession -Ingrid
Keep us, oh Lord, under the shadow of your mercy in this time of uncertainty and distress. Sustain and support the anxious and fearful and lift up all who are brought low; that we may rejoice in your comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Keep us faithful through the ages.
Lord Jesus, you taught us to love our neighbour, and to care for those in need as if we were caring for you. In this time of anxiety, give us strength to comfort the fearful, to tend the sick, and to assure the isolated of both our love, and your love.
Keep us faithful through the ages.
God of compassion, be close to those who are ill, afraid or in isolation. In their loneliness, be their consolation; in their anxiety, be their hope; in their darkness, be their light; We entrust to your tender care, Merciful God, to those who in pain, knowing that whenever danger threatens your everlasting arms are there to hold them safe. Comfort and heal them and restore them to health and strength; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Keep us faithful through the ages.
We pray for hospital staff and medical researchers, Gracious God, give skill, sympathy and resilience to all who are caring for the sick, and your wisdom to those searching for a cure. Strengthen them with your Spirit, that through their work many will be restored to health;
Keep us faithful through the ages.
And finally for religious communities world-wide, let us remember that, we are not people of fear: we are people of courage. We are not people who protect our own safety: we are people who protect our neighbours’ safety. We are not people of greed: we are people of generosity. We are your people God, giving and loving, wherever we are, whatever it costs For as long as it takes wherever you call us.
Praise to the Father, Praise to the Son, Praise to the Spirit.
Amen
We name before God those who we carry in our hearts and minds today
-Prayer List
Song: "Pray"
Blessing
May God's blessings go with you covering you and offering the protection, strength, wisdom and healing you need this day and throughout the coming week.
Amen.