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dgtully · 3 years

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Online Worship Guide: 10/3/21

Instructions: Together with your family and others gathered with you or by yourself, join our online worship gathering on the Fall Branch United Methodist Church Facebook page for a Facebook Live event. We will be consecrating and together sharing in Holy Communion. To do so, gather the following:

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

Should you not have access to the internet, you may still use this guide to participate in worship. Offer the following prayers, readings, and engage the discussion/reflections as an act of worship today, knowing there are others who do so as well.

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 10/3/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Scripture Reading:

Psalm 1

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship

Read aloud the text in bold:

Who among you is seeking the wisdom of God? We long to hear God’s Word spoken to our hearts. Who among you is seeking God’s bright and holy truth? We long to learn the ways of wisdom and righteousness. Who among you is seeking a Spirit-filled life? We long to live lives of holiness and light. God grants his wisdom generously to all who ask. Come near, people of God! Let us worship in wisdom and truth.

Opening Prayer:

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

(“In remembrance of our/my baptism into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord, we/I now make proclamation of you, who in your nature and ways are the foundation of the life we seek . . .”)

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

Preparation for Prayer:

If you are gathered online during today’s Facebook Live event, type in the comments any prayer requests, praises for God’s actions, or concerns you have for yourself or others, that we may all lift them in prayer together. Use this time to bring your concerns and petitions to God, praying along with the leader if you are participating online (Facebook Live) worship, or by yourself if not.

Prayers of the People

. . . Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory; Both now and forever. Amen

The Devotion of Giving

God has blessed us with an abundance of gifts. We are called to offer all that we are to God—our bodies, our spirits, our minds, our time, and our money. As the body of Christ, we are called to be in ministry with others. With true generosity, let us give of ourselves this day.

Consider making this time your opportunity to give a financial offering to God through his church. There are two ways you can do this through financially supporting the ongoing ministry of Fall Branch UMC:

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Click the blue bar at the bottom to be taken to a secure site to put in your credit / debit card information and the amount of your offering and submit. That’s it!—100% of your offering will go to the ministry of Fall Branch UMC.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a

{If you are taking notes today, consider the following guidance:}

How is “wisdom from above” (1:17) in contrast to the wisdom of our culture?

How do verses 4:7-8 reveal the source of how we can be doers of the word?

What actions, practices, or habits would help us submit to God’s ways and draw us nearer to God?

What might God be calling you to do as a response to this passage?

Holy Communion:

With bread and Cup (juice or wine) before you, join in The Great Thanksgiving in preparation of receiving God’s grace through this sacrament (for which our resident Bishop has allowed clergy to consecrate online during this time, for participation at home) speaking what is in bold, or all should you desire:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. And so, with your people on earth and all the company of heaven, we praise your name and join their unending hymn:

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Holy are you, and blessed is your Son Jesus Christ. By the baptism of his suffering, death, and resurrection you gave birth to your church, delivered us from slavery to sin and death, and made with us a new covenant by water and the Spirit.

On the night in which he gave himself up for us he took bread, gave thanks to you, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, and said: “Take, eat; this is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

When the supper was over, he took the cup, gave thanks to you, gave it to his disciples, and said: “Drink from this all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

And so, in remembrance of these your mighty acts in Jesus Christ, we offer ourselves in praise and thanksgiving as a holy and living sacrifice, in union with Christ’s offering for us, as we proclaim the mystery of faith.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

Pour out your Holy Spirit on we who are gathered in your name, in this and all places your people gather in the union of worship this day, and on these gifts of bread and wine. Make them be for us the body and blood of Christ, that we may be for the world the body of Christ, redeemed by his blood

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

Benediction

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Online Worship Guide: 10/3/21

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 10/3/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Scripture Reading:

Psalm 1

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship

Read aloud the text in bold:

Opening Prayer:

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

Preparation for Prayer:

Prayers of the People

. . . Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

The Devotion of Giving

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a

{If you are taking notes today, consider the following guidance:}

How is “wisdom from above” (1:17) in contrast to the wisdom of our culture?

How do verses 4:7-8 reveal the source of how we can be doers of the word?

What actions, practices, or habits would help us submit to God’s ways and draw us nearer to God?

What might God be calling you to do as a response to this passage?

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

Benediction

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Online Worship Guide: 9/26/21

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 9/26/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer:

Scripture Reading

Psalm 19

Read aloud the text in bold:

God, whose love is pouring over us, welcomes us here today.

Praise be to God! God, whose healing power is ready to bind up our wounds, welcomes us here today. Praise be to God! God, whose transforming presence offers us hope and peace, welcomes us here today. Praise be to God who loves, heals and restores us. AMEN.

Opening Prayer

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

Preparation for Prayer:

Prayers of the People

(Pray along with leader as he offers the pastoral prayer of the day.)

. . . Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

The Devotion of Giving

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude:

As a way to show gratitude in our giving, offer the following prayer as a part of our act of worship:

Holy Giver of all that we need, you have filled our hearts with joy and our hands with overflowing abundance. With thanks and joy, we bring these gifts, offering ourselves in communion with you and in service to your world. Amen.

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

James 3:1-12 — “Sticks & Stones”

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

Pray yourself, or along with those gathered with you, the following benediction prayer aloud:

Let us go out into the world proclaiming the Name of Jesus. Let us testify of his goodness, be witnesses to his mercy, and exemplify the change he has made in our lives. Go, and carry the Name of Jesus with you.

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Online Worship Guide for 9/19/21

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 9/19/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer:

Read aloud the text in bold:

We can trust God.

God is like the mountain: a solid rock. God loves all the people:

the poor, the disabled, the rich, the capable, the cared-for, the outcast, the stranger. We can depend on God.

God feeds the hungry, heals the sick, and restores relationships. Praise our Loving God.

Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah.

Scripture Reading

Psalm 123:1-2

Opening Prayer

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

Preparation for Prayer:

Prayers of the People

. . . .

Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Scripture Reading

Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

Read James 2:1-10, 14-17

{If you are NOT making use of today’s online service, reflect on the following in light of the reading . . .}

In general, what are some ways people show favoritism? When has favoritism hurt you?

How do acts of favoritism reveal our belief in Jesus (2:1)?

Why do you think there is the temptation to separate faith and works?

James points out the distinction that was evident in the churches he was in ministry with – the distinction between the rich and the poor. What distinctions do you think James might point out that are evident in today’s churches?

Respond to the statements: “Faith that doesn’t act doesn’t live out its core belief. It is faith that isn’t faith.” Do you agree or disagree? Why?

What is the distinction between being saved by works and what James is articulating?

What might God be calling you to do as a response to this passage?

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

The Devotion of Giving

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Worship Guide for 9/12/21

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 9/12/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer:

Read aloud the text in bold:

Every generous act of giving is a tribute to God’s love for us.

Lord, let us be people of generous and abundant gifts for others.

Be ready to listen and slow to react in anger.

Lord, prepare us to be people of your peace.

Keep your hearts and spirits ready to serve the Lord.

Lord, open our hearts to hear and respond to your words of life

in ministries of hope and peace. AMEN.

Opening Prayer

Scripture Reading

Psalm 15

(Response to Reading):

Your word is trustworthy and true. May we be doers of your word and not merely hearers.

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

Preparation for Prayer:

Prayers of the People

(Pastoral prayer)

. . . Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

James 1:17-27

“A Faith that Works”

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

The Devotion of Giving

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

Pray yourself, or along with those gathered with you, the following benediction prayer aloud:

As Christ has fed and redeemed our lives, now go into the world in peace and love offering ministries of hope and justice. Go in peace and may the peace of God always be with us. AMEN.

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Labor Day Weekend Worship Guide

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 9/5/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer:

Read aloud the text in bold:

As you have received Christ, continue to live in him.

In gratitude, may we be rooted and grow in trust of Jesus.

Do not allow yourselves to be taken captive by empty ways of understanding.

May we seek and serve Christ above all!

In him the fullness of deity dwells bodily,

And we are made complete in him, who is above all and over all.

He, with the Father, and the Spirit, are worthy of our worship and praise!

Opening Prayer:

Lord of mercy and abundant love, we have gathered together this day to express our devotion to you, to hear your healing words of compassion, and to be transformed by your love. Help us to become more faithful servants in our thoughts, words, and deeds. It is in Jesus’ Name, we pray. AMEN.

Scripture Reading

Psalm 111

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

The Devotion of Giving

We who have been richly blessed are called to share that blessing with the world. Give freely in the joy of serving your neighbor and your God.

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude:

As a way to show gratitude in our giving, offer the following prayer as a part of your act of worship:

All that we do is in your holy name, O God. Even as we share the riches of our labors, may we continue to honor your name in all that we do. Bless these gifts given freely, that your justice, peace, and mercy may prevail in a weak and weary world. Amen.

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon: (Special Guest: Frank Shirvinski)

Read Matthew 6:1-15

{If you are NOT making use of today’s online service, reflect on the following in light of the reading . . .}

Where do you go most often to pray—do you have a regular spot and times?

What do you find yourself praying about/for most often? How does that connect with what Jesus encourages us to pray?

In praying, what do your find is your biggest challenge?

What do you make of the idea that prayer is “communal?” How would seeing yourself as “never praying alone” change how you pray?

What parts or aspects of the way of prayer Jesus teaches could use more of your attention?

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

Preparation for Prayer:

As we pray this expanded version of The Lord’s Prayer, allow the words in bold we say together to lead you to offer specific prayers for your community, along those lines.

Prayers of the People

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.

Mystery beyond our knowing, as close to us as our breathing, in humble awe we pray.

Your Kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as in heaven

We pray for your vision of justice and mercy to be made real in our world even now.

Give us today our daily bread.

We pray for your vision of enough; enough provision, enough love, enough healing for all of your children—and all made possible through Christ.

Forgive us our sins,

as we forgive those who sin against us.

Lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

We pray for the grace to let go of that which is death dealing as we embrace your vision for life,

that we might follow you safely through every obstacle.

For the kingdom, the power and the glory are

yours. Now and for ever.

We give thanks for your presence that defies definition, in this life and beyond.

And all God’s people say,

Amen.

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

Pray yourself, or along with those gathered with you, the following benediction prayer aloud:

Go forth to love one another. Be rich in faith and serve one another in all joy and humility. And may the power of God our Creator, Christ our Salvation, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with us now and forever. Amen.

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Online Worship Guide for 8.29.21

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 8/29/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer:

Read aloud the text in bold:

Let us bless the Lord,

From this time forth for evermore. Hallelujah!

I cry out to you, O Lord;

I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.”

I will confess you among the peoples, O Lord;

I will sing praises to you among the nations.

For you loving-kindness is greater than the heavens,

And your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.

Opening Prayer

Scripture Reading

Psalm 130

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

Preparation for Prayer:

Prayers of the People

(Pastoral Prayer)

. . . Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

Matthew 5:10-12, 38-42

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

The Devotion of Giving

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

(Benediction Prayer)

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Online Worship Guide for 8/22/21

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

{The Facebook Live event begins Sunday, 8/22/21 at 11:00 AM, EDT.}

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Greeting/Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer:

Read aloud: Psalm 34:1-3, 8, 11-22

Pray aloud:

God our Lord, who lifts us up, reside in our hearts today. Help us to listen closely for your word to us. Remind us that you are always with us, throughout all of our lives. Give us confidence in your presence, so that we may go into your world ready to witness to your love through our words and our deeds, for we pray these things in Jesus’ name. AMEN.

Confession of Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today, from The Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead, and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven,

and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic* church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

*meaning the universal Christian church—all believers in Jesus Christ

Preparation for Prayer:

Prayers of the People

Let us pray:

God of grace and mercy, whether we are lifelong followers of Jesus, or new arrivals among your people, we know you value us just as we are. Hear now the prayers of thanks and concern that we now speak aloud or raise silently from our hearts. (Take time for naming people or situations in need of God’s healing love.) For those suffering in sickness, bring your healing touch. Lift the heavy burden of those weighed down in heart and mind. Provide what each of us need this day. In the midst of chaos and suffering all around our world, bring your peace, calm the storm, and may your way of order reign. Protect and empower those, in particular in this time, who seek and promote your kingdom and its ways—especially where opposition to the gospel is violent. God of the last, God of the first, God of all those in between: hear these concerns as we seek your presence in our lives and in a world in need. Through Jesus Christ we pray, AMEN.

Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

Read Matthew 5:9, 43-48

{If you are NOT making use of today’s online service, reflect on the following in light of the reading . . .}

How do vv. 43-48 expand upon/help you understand v. 9?

If “common knowledge” fosters hating our enemies, how does that in turn define who we consider our “neighbors?”

Although these standards are not a new law that we must attain before God will have mercy on us, what do they suggest about the direction in which God wants us to grow after we have received his mercy?

The word translated “perfect” in v. 48 also carries the meaning of completeness, whole, and total. Taken altogether, what do you think the goal is that Jesus is calling us toward? How might this deepen your understanding of what it means to be created in the “image of God?”

How can you express your gratitude this week for what God has done and is doing among us?

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Lord, your grace and mercy are ever-present in our lives, your forgiveness is boundless in mercy when we fail to live in Christlike ways. And yet, we are quick to carry a grudge—quick to find fault, quick to assign blame, quick to harden our hearts toward others. Set us apart, loving God, to extend and model the grace you have shown us by offering grace to others. We pray in the name of the One who died so that we might fully live. Amen.

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

The Devotion of Giving

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Prayer of Thanks & Gratitude:

As a way to show gratitude in our giving, offer the following prayer as a part of your act of worship:

O God, from your providing hand, all receive what they need for their lives. Teach us your ways and lead us to practice your generosity, so that we may live lives worthy of the gospel; made known through your Son Jesus Christ, our Savior. AMEN.

Concluding Prayer of Worship/Devotion:

What part of our worship together did you find most engaging?

Was there something you experienced that pointed you toward greater closeness with God? with other people?

When were you most encouraged? most challenged?

What do you sense God is calling you to be and/or do that helps you better reflect his life and ways?

For what are you most grateful in this time?

Pray yourself, or along with those gathered with you, the following benediction prayer aloud:

May we stand firm in the Spirit; strive side by side; and may we live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Go in peace. AMEN.

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

July 2021 Prayer Guide

(Join us in the month of July for daily prayer. This is a great prayer guide offered by Beth Moore from her blog on Living Proof Ministries.)

Each day for 31 days:

1 – Start (every day!) with these personal requests of God:

Jesus, increase my faith.

Fill me with your Spirit.

Lead me to pray according to your will, thinking and discerning with the mind of Christ.

Enlarge my heart to love.

Cause me to delight in you and to be a delight to you.

2- Read a segment of Scripture, ideally from one of the 4 Gospels.

The words of God teach us the will of God. For these 31 days, we particularly want the words of Jesus to direct how we pray and what we prioritize. (See John 15:7) Consider choosing one of the Gospels and reading a chapter each day and supplement the remaining days with chapters from Acts. For instance, I’m going to read a chapter of Matthew each day which will last me 28 days then I’m going to read the first 3 chapters of Acts for a total of 31 chapters in 31 days. (Luke is 24 chapters so you’d supplement 7 chapters of Acts, etc.) If you want your reading to be longer, choose 2 of the Gospels instead of one, reading 2 chapters a day, then supplement the remaining days in Acts.

3 – Make your requests.

Glean anything from that day’s Scripture reading that lends itself to intercession. In other words, was the will or way of God made evident in any way that could shape your prayers? If so, start there. For instance, let’s take Day 1. Matthew 1 might be a little harder to use as a guide for prayer but Mark 1, Luke 1 and John 1 each offer great prompters for various petitions. Don’t be quick to pass by that genealogy in Matthew, however, as leadership for prayer! Notice the different kinds of people listed in it and recall some of their histories and thank God that, even this very day, he is continuing the lineage of faith.

In addition to your gleanings from your reading, be led of His Spirit to ask him to do in this present era the kinds of things God alone can do. Here are some suggestions to choose from and to add to that echo the will of God as conveyed to us in various Scriptures. (If you’re new to this and need a little clearer leadership here, then choose four of these a day then, when you’ve prayed all of them, start again.)

*Do your will on earth as it is in heaven.

*Cause people to come to love you with all their heart, soul, mind and strength and to come to love their neighbor as themselves.

*Reveal yourself magnificently, powerfully and unmistakably. Enable people to know you and to discern your call.

*Glorify your great name, the only name under heaven by which people can be saved.

*Save lives temporally and, above all else, eternally.

*Spread your gospel with increased velocity throughout the globe.

*Open hearts to the gospel.

*Soften hardened hearts.

*Open minds to understand the Scriptures.

*Compel your people afresh to go forth into local communities and into the world, carrying your gospel.

*Cause great awakenings of faith to break out all over the world.

*Make your people bold in faith and love and hope.

*Cause your people to speak your words fearlessly, boldly, lovingly and relentlessly. Cause hearts and minds to be responsive.

*Do works of repentance that are unparalleled in our day.

*Cause your people to love one another well and to come to love people they have deeply disliked.

*Cause your people to please and honor you through profoundly deeper unity amid the diversity you dearly love.

*Cause your joy to be in us and our joy to be complete.

*Open the eyes of the spiritually blind. Cause fog and confusion to clear.

*Cause ears to hear you. Turn down the volume on the confusing, distracting cacophony. Help us to know your voice when we hear it.

*Send workers out into the harvest fields.

*Disciple your people and teach us how to more effectively disciple others.

*Make growth in Christlikeness the high priority of discipleship.

*Quench the works of the flesh and produce the fruit of the Spirit.

*Circumcise hearts to love you and love others.

*Cause your people to love, not only in word, but in deeds.

*Deliver from sins and strongholds and addictions.

*Expose darkness by your light and to your light.

*Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

*Cause your people to have their/our eyes opened to the devil’s devices and schemes and to stand strong against him.

*Heal tormented minds and torn up bodies.

*Build your church. Refine. Purify. Unify.

*Make your people quick to conviction of the Spirit and true repentance.

*Cause people to love your words.

*Cause your word to spread rapidly and be honored.

*Equip your people in their spiritual gifts and lead them where to use them.

*Lead your people into healthy communities of faith.

*Restore individuals, marriages, families, friends, churches, communities.

*Break strongholds of pride, selfishness and narcissistic leadership.

*Break strongholds of bitterness and unforgiveness.

*Empower us to forgive one another, to ask forgiveness of one another and to accept and embrace our own forgiveness from you and from others.

*Cause your people to turn from hatefulness and unkindness, from slander, coldness and malice.

*Mature your people. Make your people humble but hearty. Strengthen and encourage and fortify.

*Forgive us of our hypocrisy and duplicity and grant that we’d be wholehearted and single-minded toward you and your will and ways.

*Profoundly increase the humility and generosity of your people.

*Renew your wonders in our day according to your will.

*Increase your works of healing in our day according to James 5.

*Teach us your ways. Teach us to pray.

*Meet needs miraculously and creatively in ways that prompt great praise.

*Cause your people to be enduring and persevering even in affliction, pain or persecution.

*Free people from idolatry.

*Free people from oppression.

*Anoint and empower your people all over the world to boldly take up your ministry as described in Luke 4, preaching good news to the poor and recovery of sight to the blind and freedom for the oppressed.

*Fill your people with compassion for a lost and hurting and angry world.

*Cause your grace to your people to not be in vain.

*Form within your people a heart for the poor and marginalized and turn it into action that makes a remarkable difference.

*Enable your people to love our enemies and bless those who curse us.

*Have mercy on this present generation of believers and help us to love well, live well, serve well, suffer well and die well.

*Cause your people to abundantly increase in expectancy and anticipation of your coming and of the new creation.

4 – Pray for a different nation each day. You can’t go wrong here. There is not a single nation or people-group God does not want to touch with the gospel of Jesus. I have prayed according to the Operation World manual many times but right now I’m praying alongside Voice of the Martyrs and their 2021 prayer calendar. I will supply a picture of their July page at the bottom of this post in case you’d like to join along but I hope you might also be prompted to pray for other nations unmentioned so we don’t only cover these.

5 – Keep a record. You don’t need something fancy. All you need is a pen and some paper. Each day jot down what portion of Scripture you read, what specifics God led you to pray and what nation you prayed for. If, as you’re praying, God leads you to intercede for specific people, places, organizations, churches or ministries, jot down what you prayed (just as you’ll do for nations). Keep it for reference in the future. I fully believe you will see some answers in due time and, together someday before God’s throne, he will make known to us why he called us to prayer and what he accomplished in response to those prayers.

6 – End each time of prayer with these confessions, whether in these words or your own:

Thank you, Lord, for the absolute certainty that my prayers today mattered.

Thank you, Lord, for my brothers and sisters with whom I gather in prayer over these 31 days. Bless them personally, Lord, encourage them and give them eyes to see you at work.

(This one is especially important.) Do abundantly more than all we could ask or think.

According to Colossians 4:2, help us to continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.

7 – Ask God to do a fresh work of his Spirit in your own life through these 31 days.

No words big enough to thank you for joining in 31 days of fervent, focused prayer. By the grace of God, some things will be different because we, as different as we are, gathered around the one name of Jesus and prayed. And we, brothers and sisters, will be different.

0 notes

dgtully · 3 years

Text

Online Worship Guide for 4/11/21

Instructions: Together with your family or by yourself, use this guide to participate in worship. Join our online service on the Fall Branch United Methodist Church Facebook page for a Facebook Live event. We will be consecrating and together sharing in Holy Communion. To do so, gather the following:

Bread

A cup of grape juice or wine

Offer the following prayers, readings, and engage the discussion/reflections as an act of worship today, knowing there are others who do so as well.

Order of Worship

(If you have a candle available, light it as a sign of this time being set apart as sacred and as a confession that God, who is our light, is present with us.)

Greeting

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer:

1 Peter 1:3-5, 8-9

Opening Prayer

Rehearsing Our Faith:

Recite aloud our proclamation of faith today as shown on screen, The Apostles’ Creed.

Prayers of the People

Respond to the prayers offered with the words in bold type, as it appears on the screen.

(“Lord, hear our prayer.”)

. . .

Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

(The Lord’s Prayer)

The Devotion of Giving

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon:

“Unless I See”

John 20:19-31

Worship Through Song

“I Stand Amazed in the Presence”

Holy Communion:

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

Mission Challenge Response:

As a response of faithfulness to God from this time of worship, consider accepting one of the following acts of devotion to God and service to others for this week:

— Do a regular prayer walk in your neighborhood, praying for blessing on each household. Leave a note on their mailbox letting them know they’ve been prayed for by the church.

— Join a prayer, bible study, or devotional group.

— Offer to do the shopping (including the pharmacy) for a neighbor in need.

— Begin reading through the Psalms and keep a journal of your thoughts, questions, and insights!

— Keep a journal of what, each day 1) you are most grateful for, 2) you are least grateful for, and 3) the craziest part of your day. Include any insights you might have from these and pray for God to show you how he is with you in all of it.

Benediction:

(After the benediction, extinguish the candle as a way of closing this time of worship.)

0 notes

dgtully · 4 years

Text

Palm/Passion Sunday Worship Guide (3/28/21)

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

Philippians 2:5-8, NRSV

(Responsive reading—on screen)

Let us worship the Lord—not just with our voices, but with our entire being.

We gather to worship the one who is highly exalted and whose name is above every name, Jesus the Christ.

Your presence demands our participation. Our worship is never wasteful.

Be gracious to us O Lord. We are your servants; empty us for your use. We are Christ’s servants, and may we be of the same mind.

We declare that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. Praise be unto God!

(Opening Prayer)

Scripture Reading

Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

(You may not have palm branch, but lift palm of hand as sign and participation during reading)

The Church at Prayer

(Pray along with the leader, as they voice our congregational prayer. Then pray aloud the Lord’s Prayer, in bold.)

. . .

Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Worship Through Song

“Our God Saves”

(Sing along with words on the screen.)

Sermon (Palm/Passion Sunday)

{Video Intro: “Behold Your King is Coming” (SkitGuys)}

“The One Who Comes/April Fools”

Mark 11:1-11, NRSV

Confession of Faith

“The Apostles’ Creed”

(Reading—on screen)

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord:

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father

Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. AMEN.

Offering

We give in gratitude for God’s blessings and gifts in our lives.

Our offerings are a demonstration of trust in God’s ongoing care for our needs.

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

(Prayer of Gratitude)

Announcements

(Good Friday: 6:30 PM online only)

(Easter Sunday: 9AM & 11AM—let us know which service plan to attend, 2PM online)

Benediction

0 notes

dgtully · 4 years

Text

Worship Guide for 5th Sunday of Lent (3/21/21)

Instructions: If you have a candle available, light it as a symbol of God’s presence with you during this time and setting it apart as sacred to him. Take a few moments to slow your breathing as a way of focusing your attention on this time of worship. Joining in the following prayers, readings, and reflections (as led) as a devotion to God and opportunity to have him touch your life.

Call to Worship

(Read aloud bold type on screen)

First Scripture Reading

Psalm 119:10-16

Opening Prayer

Second Scripture Reading

Psalm 51:6-10

The Church at Prayer

(Pray as the leader offers prayer on behalf of church, bringing your concerns to God)

. . . .

Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Worship Through Song

(Sing aloud “Amazing Grace” as an act of praise and worship, as the words and music are on the screen.)

Third Scripture Reading

John 12:23-26

Confession of Faith

“The Apostles’ Creed”

(Read aloud the words in bold on the screen.)

Feasting on God’s Word

(5th Sunday of Lent)

(Read aloud the following Scripture and reflect on the questions below.)

Jeremiah 31:31-34, NRSV

(For reflection . . .)

How is this new covenant that God will make different from the first (that centers around the Exodus event in book of Exodus and Deuteronomy)? How is it similar?

How is our covenant relationship with God both binding and freeing?

During Lent, we are reminded how far from living more fully into this covenant relationship we are as individuals and as a community of faith. We don’t always act out of love for God and neighbor. We don’t always act as those who have God’s law written on our hearts. How might Lenten practices, such as denying ourselves certain luxuries, become acts of remembering the abundant life we are called to live?

Offering

We give in gratitude for God’s blessings and gifts in our lives.

Our offerings are a demonstration of trust in God’s ongoing care for our needs.

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

(Prayer of gratitude)

Benediction

(Extinguish the candle.)

0 notes

dgtully · 4 years

Text

Online Worship Guide for 3/14/21

Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

(Responsive reading—on screen)

God loves us with a steadfast love.

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so!

God loves us so much he gave us his Son.

Let us believe and have eternal life!

God loves us with a great love, rich in mercy.

Let us have faith to receive this grace!

Give thanks to the Lord, for God is good.

(Opening Prayer)

Scripture Reading

Numbers 21:4-9

The Church at Prayer

(At the end of each specific prayer offering, say aloud the prayer in bold, as displayed on the screen.)

The day of the Lord is coming: He abounds in steadfast love.

. . . Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Worship Through Song

“Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”

Scripture Reading

John 3:14-21

Sermon (4th Sunday of Lent)

“Look Up and Live!”

Numbers 21:4-9; John 3:14-21, NRSV

(Response to the Word)—on screen)

At a time when humanity had exhausted its own efforts to know and be known by God, the Word became flesh and lived among us. (John 1:14.) Jesus came to us; God with us, revealing God to us.

Jesus came to us, the ultimate act of hospitality.

Jesus remained with us for a time, in spite of our dull understanding and willful acts against God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. He humbled himself and submitted to the humiliation of death on a cross. (Philippians 2:6-8.)

Jesus came to us in the ultimate act of self-sacrifice.

Jesus came to us as the ultimate expression of love.

All: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life"

Confession of Faith

“The Apostles’ Creed”

(Reading—on screen)

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord:

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father

Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. AMEN.

Offering

We give in gratitude for God’s blessings and gifts in our lives.

Our offerings are a demonstration of trust in God’s ongoing care for our needs.

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information. --Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu.

--Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

--Click the blue bar at the bottom to be taken to a secure site to put in your credit / debit card information and the amount of your offering and submit. That’s it!—100% of your offering will go to the ministry of Fall Branch UMC.

(Prayer of Gratitude)

Benediction

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dgtully · 4 years

Text

Online Worship Guide for Fall Branch UMC, 3/7/21 @2PM, EST

Welcome

Call to Worship & Opening Prayer

(Responsive reading)

Weary and overwhelmed, we gather.

God’s holy word revives us.

Simple and confused, we yield our way to his.

God’s word gives us wisdom.

Blind and uncomprehending, we await.

God’s word enlightens our eyes.

More precious than gold is God’s word.

Sweeter than honey are God’s commands.

(Opening Prayer)

Scripture Reading

Psalm 19

Worship Through Song

“Trust and Obey”

(Sing aloud as a proclamation of your commitment to Christ!)

The Church at Prayer

(At the end of each specific prayer offering, say aloud the prayer in bold, as displayed on the screen.)

. . . God, in your unfailing love, hear our prayer.

. . . Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Feasting on God’s Word (3rd Sunday of Lent)

“All These Words”

Exodus 20:1-17, NRSV

Holy Communion

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

Friends, hear the good news: God through Christ has remembered us with kindness and steadfast love. As far as east is from west, so has God removed our sins. Believe the good news: in Christ you are forgiven. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

Offering

We give in gratitude for God’s blessings and gifts in our lives.

Our offerings are a demonstration of trust in God’s ongoing care for our needs.

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

2. Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

(Prayer of Gratitude)

Benediction

May we go forth with the Lord at our side, seeking goodness and compassion. May we bring the words of hope and peace to all whom we meet. We go in peace. AMEN.

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dgtully · 4 years

Text

Worship Guide for 2nd Sun. of Lent (2/28/21)

Welcome & Call to Worship

Responsive Greeting

Let us turn our minds from human things.

Our faith in Jesus saves us.

Let us set our minds on divine things.

Our faith in Jesus saves us.

We will deny ourselves and take up our cross.

Our faith in Jesus saves us.

We will lose all; that we may gain all.

Our faith in Jesus saves us.

Opening Prayer

{Video reflection: “Worship Defined”}

Scripture Reading

Psalm 22:23-31, NRSV

Song of Praise

(“Great Is Thy Faithfulness”) — as you sing, let it guide you to reflect on ways that God is caring for and has been good to you.

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon

“Walk This Way”

Genesis 17:1-22, NRSV

Confession of Faith

The Apostles’ Creed

(Speak aloud the words of the Creed, as a “rehearsal” of and recommitment to our faith today.)

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord:

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. AMEN.

The Devotion of Giving

We give in gratitude for God’s blessings and gifts in our lives.

Our offerings are a demonstration of trust in God’s ongoing care for our needs.

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

2. Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Offering Prayer

Prayers of the People

(As prayer is offered, at the appropriate times, offer aloud the following in bold:)

“Lord, hear our prayer, and in your love, answer.”

–––––––––––––––––––

Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Holy Communion:

Invitation

Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

Confession and Pardon

The Great Thanksgiving

May the Lord be with us. We lift up our hearts to the Lord. Let us give our thanks and praise.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ is with us; Christ will come again.

By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet.

Through your Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in you holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

(Share in the bread before you with the words, “The body of Christ, given for us.” Share in the cup before you with the words, “The blood of Christ, given for us.”)

Announcements

In-Person Worship resumes in FBUMC building on Sunday, March 7th, @ 11:00 AM, EST

Benediction

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dgtully · 4 years

Text

Worship Guide for 1st Sunday of Lent (2/21/21)

Call to Worship

Psalm 25:1-10, NRSV

Responsive Greeting

Leader: Come, Beloved! Let us worship!

People: We are gathered to worship the One in whom we place our trust!

Leader: God, who does all things well, is with us! God is among his people!

People: God is merciful, and God is kind! Together, we have come to praise the One Who seeks relationship with us and keeps covenant! Let us worship!

Opening Prayer

Confession of Faith

The Apostles’ Creed

(Speak aloud the words of the Creed, as a “rehearsal” of and recommitment to our faith today.)

I believe in God the Father Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord:

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, dead and buried;

the third day he rose from the dead;

he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;

from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. AMEN.

Song of Praise

(“I Stand Amazed”) — as you sing, let it guide you to reflect on ways that God is great and has been good to you.

Prayers of the People

(Pray aloud the following and allow it to guide your thoughts and devotion.)

–––––––––––––––––––

Loving God, we your children never pray alone, but only with all your saints in all the world. Therefore, we pray now as Jesus taught us:

Feasting on God’s Word/Sermon

“Here’s Your Sign”

{Read aloud} Genesis 9:8-17, NRSV

(Reflect on the following.)

What might be the difference between a contract and a covenant?

What words and themes are repeated in the passage? How are these themes expressed (in this passage)?

How was the rainbow a sign of God’s promise? How might the church function as that promise today? What might that say about us?

How is Jesus the ultimate covenant maker? How is Jesus the ultimate “bow” or “rainbow” as a sign of God’s presence in the world?

How might the work of rending our hearts contribute to being a sign of God’s presence in the world?

The Devotion of Giving

We give in gratitude for God’s blessings and gifts in our lives.

Our offerings are a demonstration of trust in God’s ongoing care for our needs.

Mail a check to:

Fall Branch United Methodist Church

P. O. Box 86

Fall Branch, TN 37656

2. Online Giving:

Go to holston.org/churchoffering and fill in your contact information.

Select Appalachian District in the first pull-down menu. Select Fall Branch United Methodist Church—Fall Branch, TN in the second pull-down menu.

Offering Prayer

Announcements

In-Person Worship resumes in FBUMC building on Sunday, March 7th, @ 11:00 AM, EST

Benediction

0 notes

dgtully · 4 years

Text

Ash Wednesday Worship Guide

Call to Worship

(Read aloud the words in bold as they appear on the screen.)

A clean heart, create for me, O God,

and a steadfast spirit renew within me.

Prayer of Confession

(Pray responsively.)

God, we are marred, broken people and need more for cleansing and restoration that we are capable.

For you, Lord God, are able. Able to erase our wrongs. Scrub away our guilt. You are the only one able to wash us clean from our sins.

God, you are merciful and compassionate. Your love is everlasting.

We have done wrong -- repeatedly -- and we continue to violate the commands of your word.

We pause now, Lord, to confess our sins to you. You are faithful to forgive.

(Silence for Reflection and Confession)

Prayer of Submission:

God, create in us clean hearts and renew your spirit within us. Please don't take your spirit away from us; restore unto us the joy of your salvation. Be willing, O God, to keep us in your tender care. Deliver us, Lord, and free us from ourselves. Help us, Father, to use our lives as a testament to your transformational power. Allow your Holy Spirit to redirect us when we begin to wallow back to the former. We want to be used in your service. Here we are, Lord. We yield ourselves to you.

(Silence for Reflection and Submission)

Words of Assurance:

God, you remind us in your word that when we are in Christ we are new creatures, and the old things pass away. This Ash Wednesday, we take hold of your promise: Renew us, Lord: a new walk, a new talk, a new mind, a new heart, a new life.

Thank you for the promise that we can truly be made new again. Amen.

Listening to God’s Word

“Yet Even Now”

Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, NRSV

Song of Response

“O Come to the Altar”

Imposition of Ashes

While we are not able to gather in person this Ash Wednesday for the imposition of ashes on our foreheads, do the following as your act of devotion at the beginning of Lent, as demonstrated during livestream:

Holding the swatch of burlap/cloth with the ashen cross on it, say the following prayer aloud:

“Remember that you are dust and to dust you will return.

Repent and trust in the good news of Jesus Christ.”

Keep this swatch with you or place it such that you will be able to see it each day of the Lenten season (from Ash Wednesday until Easter Sunday). Let it be a reminder of your desire and commitment to remember who you are, who God is, and that he is with you and preparing you to be transformed through his love.

AND/OR

Mirror Message: taking a black dry erase marker (don’t use anything permanent!), draw a small cross on the mirror so that it appears to be in the middle of your forehead whenever you stand in front of the mirror.

Next to the cross, write with the same dry erase marker, write the phrase:

“Repent and trust in the good news of Jesus Christ.”

Leave the cross and phrase on your mirror through out the Lenten season (until Easter Sunday), as a reminder of our preparation for receiving Jesus and devotion to him. Repeat the phrase whenever you step in front of it.

Closing Prayer

(Join in the following benediction prayer as a way to close this time of worship and devotion.)

May we go in peace to live for Christ, to serve him and him alone, to walk as a people set apart to follow him, and to overflow into others with the love he has so generously poured into us, as long as we live; through the grace of our Lord and the power of the Holy Spirit, to the glory of the Father. Amen.

0 notes