October Worship 2023

October 29, 2023Reformation Sunday

Rooted in the past and growing into the future, the church must always be reformed in order to live out the love of Christ in an ever-changing world. We celebrate the good news of God’s grace, that Jesus Christ sets us free every day to do this life-transforming work. Trusting in the freedom given to us in baptism, we pray for the church, that Christians will unite more fully in worship and mission.

PRELUDE

PROCESSIONAL                      This is the Day                  Redeemer Choir

GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

TEMPLE TALK                             Health Fair                           Linda Eargle

CALL TO WORSHIP                God is Out Refuge and Strength             Redeemer Choir

Please stand, if able.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

P: Blessed be God, the one who forms us, Jesus who bears the cross, the Spirit who makes our joy complete.

C: Amen.

P: Let us bow before God in humility, confessing our sin.

Silence is kept for reflection.

P: Steadfast and faithful God,

C: you have revealed the ways of justice, yet we fail to follow you. We are overwhelmed by the world’s violence and suffering.  We are afraid to risk what we have for the sake of others. For the harm we have caused, known and unknown, forgive us.  For the unjust demands we place on others and your creation, forgive us. For the ways we turn away from you and our neighbor, forgive us. Lead us back to you and set us on the right path; in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

P: Beloved in Christ, God’s justice stretches beyond all understanding. God’s compassion is beyond compare. In Jesus, God is always making a new way for us. In Christ, you are already and always forgiven.

C: Amen.

GATHERING HYMN                   A Mighty Fortress                      ELW 504

SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: The Lord be with you.

C: And also with you.

P: Almighty God, gracious Lord, we thank you that your Holy Spirit renews the church in every age. Pour out your Holy Spirit on your faithful people. Keep them steadfast in your word, protect and comfort them in times of trial, defend them against all enemies of the gospel, and bestow on the church your saving peace, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

C: Amen.

Please be seated.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song from

the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

FIRST READING Jeremiah 31:31-34

The renewed covenant will not be breakable, but like the old covenant it will expect the people to live upright lives. To know the Lord means that one will defend the cause of the poor and needy (Jer. 22:16). The renewed covenant is possible only because the Lord will forgive iniquity and not remember sin. Our hope lies in a God who forgets.

31The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. 32It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt—a covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, says the Lord. 33But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34No longer shall they teach one another, or say to each other, “Know the Lord,” for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, says the Lord; for I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

PSALM (responsively)                        Psalm 46

1God is our ref- | uge and strength,
  a very present | help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear, though the | earth be moved,
  
and though the mountains shake in the depths | of the sea;
3though its waters | rage and foam,
  and though the mountains tremble | with its tumult.
4There is a river whose streams make glad the cit- | y of God,
  
the holy habitation of | the Most High.
5God is in the midst of the city; it shall | not be shaken;
  God shall help it at the | break of day.
6The nations rage, and the | kingdoms shake;
  
God speaks, and the earth | melts away. 
7The Lord of | hosts is with us;
  the God of Jacob | is our stronghold.
8Come now, regard the works | of the Lord,
  
what desolations God has brought up- | on the earth;
9behold the one who makes war to cease in | all the world;
  who breaks the bow, and shatters the spear, and burns the | shields with fire.
10“Be still, then, and know that | I am God;
  
I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted | in the earth.”
11The Lord of | hosts is with us;
  the God of Jacob | is our stronghold.

SECOND READING                Romans 3:19-28

Paul’s words stand at the heart of the preaching of Martin Luther and other Reformation leaders. No human beings make themselves right with God through works of the law. We are brought into a right relationship with God through the divine activity centered in Christ’s death. This act is a gift of grace that liberates us from sin and empowers our faith in Jesus Christ.

19Now we know that whatever the law says, it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. 20For “no human being will be justified in his sight” by deeds prescribed by the law, for through the law comes the knowledge of sin.

21But now, apart from law, the righteousness of God has been disclosed, and is attested by the law and the prophets, 22the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction, 23since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; 24they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith. He did this to show his righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over the sins previously committed; 26it was to prove at the present time that he himself is righteous and that he justifies the one who has faith in Jesus.

27Then what becomes of boasting? It is excluded. By what law? By that of works? No, but by the law of faith. 28For we hold that a person is justified by faith apart from works prescribed by the law.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

P: The Holy Gospel according to St. John, the eight chapter.

GOSPEL                                    John 8:31-36

Jesus speaks of truth and freedom as spiritual realities known through his word. He reveals the truth that sets people free from sin.

31Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; 32and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” 33They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, ‘You will be made free’?”

34Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. 35The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. 36So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.”

P: The Gospel of the Lord.

Please be seated.                                  

MESSAGE                             David Allman, Pastor

HYMN OF THE DAY        The Church’s One Foundation           ELW 654

Please stand, if able, for the Nicene’ Creed.      

    NICENE CREED

    We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

    We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.  Through him all things were made.  For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and man was made.

    For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.  On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

    We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son.  With the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified.  He has spoken through the prophets.  We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.  We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.  We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

    Prayers on behalf of others

    Trusting in the transformative power of God’s loving Spirit, let us pray for the church, the world, and all in need.

    A brief silence.

    God our parent, you call us your children and have made us siblings through your son Jesus. Heal the church’s many divisions, bring understanding and peace where there has been contention and strife, and unite us in one body through the love of Christ. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God our creator, your hands have made the heights of the mountains, the depths of the sea, and the life that animates all creation. Bring relief to areas harmed by wildfires, floods, storms, and human carelessness. Renew the face of the earth. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God our ruler, the nations rage and the kingdoms shake, but your word stands fast forever. Let your justice and peace roll down like waters wherever there is strife, injustice, war, or religious conflict. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God our champion, you are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. Draw near to all who suffer. Be their rest and comfort. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God our reformer, you make all things new. Free us from complacency, open us to unexpected ways, and kindle zeal in us for the future. We pray for young people affirming their baptism. With them, stir in us a desire for your wisdom. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Here other intercessions may be offered.

    God our savior, you made yourself known in the lives of all who have died in the hope of your grace. We give thanks for the witness of reformers like Martin Luther and for all whose example has brought us closer to you. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    We remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Protecting God, please keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.  God of grace, hear our prayer.

    P: Gracious God, into your hands we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your unending love and amazing grace; through Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    OFFERING/ANTHEM                God Almighty Is               Redeemer Choir

    OFFERTORY RESPONSECreate In Me a Clean Heart

    OFFERING PRAYER

    P: God of power, God of plenty, all things belong to you. We bring your gifts to the table, that all might be fed. Form us into the body of your Beloved, Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    The Meal

    God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. Communion Assistants, Ushers, and the choir will receive Holy Communion first.  If you are unable to come to the altar for Holy Communion, please let an usher know and Holy Communion will be brought to you.

    INVITATION TO COMMUNION              

    Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you. There are both wine and purple grape juice available.  Tell the Communion Assistant if you prefer juice. 

    WORDS OF INSTITUTION

    P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.

    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 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, forever and ever.  Amen.

    DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNIONLamb of God

    Please stand, if able.

    P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.

    C: Amen.

    SENDING OF COMMUNION

    P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned.  May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.

    C: Amen.

    BENEDICTION

    P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

    C: Choral Amen.

    SENDING HYMN      The Church of Christ, In Every Age            ELW 729

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    P: Go in peace.  God is at work in you.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    October 22, 202321st Sunday after Pentecost

    In today’s first reading God uses the Gentile ruler Cyrus to accomplish divine purposes. When the Pharisees try to trap Jesus, he tells them to give the emperor what belongs to him and to God what belongs to God. To gather for worship reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to God rather than to any earthly authority. Created in the image of God, we offer our entire selves in the service of God and for the sake of the world.

    PRELUDE

    PROCESSIONAL             He’s All I Need                Redeemer Choir

    GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

    CALL TO WORSHIP       God Creator of Your People      Redeemer Choir

    Please stand, if able.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

    The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

    CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

    P: Blessed be God, the one who forms us, Jesus who bears the cross, the Spirit who makes our joy complete.

    C: Amen.

    P: Let us bow before God in humility, confessing our sin.

    Silence is kept for reflection.

    P: Steadfast and faithful God,

    C: you have revealed the ways of justice, yet we fail to follow you. We are overwhelmed by the world’s violence and suffering.  We are afraid to risk what we have for the sake of others. For the harm we have caused, known and unknown, forgive us.  For the unjust demands we place on others and your creation, forgive us. For the ways we turn away from you and our neighbor, forgive us. Lead us back to you and set us on the right path; in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

    P: Beloved in Christ, God’s justice stretches beyond all understanding. God’s compassion is beyond compare. In Jesus, God is always making a new way for us. In Christ, you are already and always forgiven.

    C: Amen.

    GATHERING HYMN              My Faith Looks Up to Thee              ELW 759

    SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY

    P: The Lord be with you.

    C: And also with you.

    P: Sovereign God, raise your throne in our hearts. Created by you, let us live in your image; created for you, let us act for your glory; redeemed by you, let us give you what is yours, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

    C: Amen.

    Please be seated.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song from

    the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

    FIRST READING Isaiah 45:1-7

    The prophet announces that Cyrus the Persian emperor is the one the Lord has anointed to end Israel’s exile. The Lord makes this choice so that the whole world will recognize this Lord as the only God. Persia had a god of light and a god of darkness; the Lord claims sovereignty over both light and darkness.

    1Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus,
      whose right hand I have grasped
     to subdue nations before him
      and strip kings of their robes,
     to open doors before him—
      and the gates shall not be closed:
    2I will go before you
      and level the mountains,
     I will break in pieces the doors of bronze
      and cut through the bars of iron,
    3I will give you the treasures of darkness
      and riches hidden in secret places,
     so that you may know that it is I, the Lord,
      the God of Israel, who call you by your name.
    4For the sake of my servant Jacob,
      and Israel my chosen,
     I call you by your name,
      I surname you, though you do not know me.
    5I am the Lord, and there is no other;
      besides me there is no god.
      I arm you, though you do not know me,
    6so that they may know, from the rising of the sun
      and from the west, that there is no one besides me;
      I am the Lord, and there is no other.
    7I form light and create darkness,
      I make weal and create woe;
      I the Lord do all these things.

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    PSALM (responsively)                          Psalm 96:1-13

    1Sing to the Lord| a new song;
      sing to the Lord, | all the earth.
    2Sing to the Lord, bless the name | of the Lord;
      
    proclaim God’s salvation from | day to day.
    3Declare God’s glory a- | mong the nations
      and God’s wonders a- | mong all peoples.
    4For great is the Lord and greatly | to be praised,
      
    more to be feared | than all gods. R
    5As for all the gods of the nations, they | are but idols;
      but you, O Lord, have | made the heavens.
    6Majesty and magnificence are | in your presence;
      
    power and splendor are in your | sanctuary.
    7Ascribe to the Lord, you families | of the peoples,
      ascribe to the Lord hon- | or and power.
    8Ascribe to the Lord the honor due the | holy name;
      
    bring offerings and enter the courts | of the Lord.
    9Worship the Lord in the beau- | ty of holiness;
      tremble before the Lord, | all the earth.
    10Tell it out among the nations: “The | Lord is king!
      
    The one who made the world so firm that it cannot be moved will judge the peo- | ples with equity.”
    11Let the heavens rejoice, and let the | earth be glad;
      let the sea thunder and all that is in it; let the field be joyful and all that | is therein.
    12Then shall all the trees of the wood shout for joy at your com- | ing, O Lord,
      
    for you come to | judge the earth.
    13You will judge the | world with righteousness
      and the peoples | with your truth.

    SECOND READING                    1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

    Most likely this letter is the first written by Paul. Paul gives pastoral encouragement and reassurances to new Christians living in an antagonistic environment. Their commitment of faith, love, and hope makes them a model for other new Christian communities.

    1Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy,
      To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:
      Grace to you and peace.
    2We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly 3remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you, 5because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake. 6And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for in spite of persecution you received the word with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit, 7so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith in God has become known, so that we have no need to speak about it. 9For the people of those regions report about us what kind of welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, 10and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath that is coming.

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.

    GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

    P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew, the twenty second chapter.

    GOSPEL                                Matthew 22:15-22

    After Jesus begins teaching in the temple, religious leaders try to trap him with questions. First they ask if God’s people should pay taxes to an earthly tyrant like Caesar.

    15Then the Pharisees went and plotted to entrap [Jesus] in what he said. 16So they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and teach the way of God in accordance with truth, and show deference to no one; for you do not regard people with partiality. 17Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?” 18But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites? 19Show me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. 20Then he said to them, “Whose head is this, and whose title?” 21They answered, “The emperor’s.” Then he said to them, “Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” 22When they heard this, they were amazed; and they left him and went away.

    P: The Gospel of the Lord.

    Please be seated.                                  

    MESSAGE                                            David Allman, Pastor

    HYMN OF THE DAY           Great Is Thy Faithfulness                 ELW 733

    APOSTLES’ CREED

    I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

    I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered

    under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living 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/ANTHEM                There is A Savior               Redeemer Choir

    Dedicated in memory of Nancy & Paul Carrier

    OFFERTORY RESPONSECreate In Me a Clean Heart

    OFFERING PRAYER

    P: God of power, God of plenty, all things belong to you. We bring your gifts to the table, that all might be fed. Form us into the body of your Beloved, Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

    Prayers on behalf of others

    Trusting in the transformative power of God’s loving Spirit, let us pray for the church, the world, and all in need.

    A brief silence.

    Faithful God, your Spirit animates the church throughout the world and binds believers near and far into the body of Christ. Equip us for the work of faith, and enlarge our hearts for the labor of love. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Creating God, the sea roars, the earth rejoices, and the heavens are glad at the wonder of all you have made. Bless the work of ecologists and conservationists and all those who safeguard the riches of creation. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Sovereign God, your rule and authority is over the cosmos. As you once worked through the ruler Cyrus for the good of your people, accomplish your purposes through the work of elected leaders and public servants. Guide them with your wisdom and compassion. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Caring God, your arms enfold all who are lonely, oppressed, despairing, sick, and suffering. Pour out your abundant mercy on all whom this world has neglected, abandoned, and forgotten, that they may know your joy. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Almighty God, all our life belongs to you. When earthly idols threaten to lead your church astray, remind us that you alone are the source of our eternal hope. Direct the work of church treasurers, councils, and all who manage financial matters. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Here other intercessions may be offered.

    Everlasting God, the saints of every age have sung your praise and shared your word. We give you thanks for their witness and pray that we may join them as citizens of your unending kingdom. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    We pray for the congregation and ministries at Calvary, and pray that the Spirit brings Calvary the right pastor. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    We remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Protecting God, please keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.  God of grace, hear our prayer.

    P: Gracious God, into your hands we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your unending love and amazing grace; through Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    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 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, forever and ever.  Amen.

    GRACE, LOVE, & FELLOWSHIP

    To be sung by the congregation

    May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us.

    May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us, forever and ever for evermore.  Amen.

    BENEDICTION

    P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

    C: Choral Amen.

    SENDING HYMN                    You Servants of God                      ELW 825

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    P: Go in peace.  God is at work in you.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    October 15, 202320th Sunday after Pentecost

    In Isaiah we are given a vision of the great feast to come, when God will wipe away death forever. In Jesus’ parable about a great banquet, those invited do not come, so the invitation is extended to others. In our liturgy God spreads a table before us. Even amid anxiety and hardship we rejoice in the peace of God which surpasses all understanding. With great joy we feast at the table of the Lord, and we go forth to share the wonderful invitation with others hungering and thirsting for the abundant life of God.

    PRELUDE                   

    PROCESSIONAL     All People That on Earth Do Dwell   Redeemer Choir

    GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

    CALL TO WORSHIP        At the Table of the Lord            Redeemer Choir

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

    The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

    CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

    P: Blessed be God, the one who forms us, Jesus who bears the cross, the Spirit who makes our joy complete.

    C: Amen.

    P: Let us bow before God in humility, confessing our sin.

    Silence is kept for reflection.

    P: Steadfast and faithful God,

    C: you have revealed the ways of justice, yet we fail to follow you. We are overwhelmed by the world’s violence and suffering. We are afraid to risk what we have for the sake of others. For the harm we have caused, known and unknown, forgive us. For the unjust demands we place on others and your creation, forgive us. For the ways we turn away from you and our neighbor, forgive us. Lead us back to you and set us on the right path; in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

    P: Beloved in Christ, God’s justice stretches beyond all understanding. God’s compassion is beyond compare. In Jesus, God is always making a new way for us. In Christ, you are already and always forgiven.

    C: Amen.

    GATHERING HYMN                 What Feast of Love                      ELW 487

    SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY

    P: The Lord be with you.

    C: And also with you.

    P: Lord of the feast, you have prepared a table before all peoples and poured out your life with abundance. Call us again to your banquet. Strengthen us by what is honorable, just, and pure, and transform us into a people of righteousness and peace, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

    C: Amen.

    Please be seated.

    SPECIAL MUSIC                 Shepherd of Love                     Sherri Knaub

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song

    from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

    FIRST READING                         Isaiah 25:1-9

    After a hymn of praise acknowledging God as a shelter for the poor, the prophet portrays a wonderful victory banquet at which death—which in ancient Canaan was depicted as a monster swallowing up everyone—will be swallowed up forever. The prophet urges celebration of this victory of salvation.

    1O Lord, you are my God;
      I will exalt you, I will praise your name;
     for you have done wonderful things,
      plans formed of old, faithful and sure.
    2For you have made the city a heap,
      the fortified city a ruin;
     the palace of aliens is a city no more,
      it will never be rebuilt.
    3Therefore strong peoples will glorify you;
      cities of ruthless nations will fear you.
    4For you have been a refuge to the poor,
      a refuge to the needy in their distress,
      a shelter from the rainstorm and a shade from the heat.
     When the blast of the ruthless was like a winter rainstorm,
      5the noise of aliens like heat in a dry place,
     you subdued the heat with the shade of clouds;
      the song of the ruthless was stilled.
    6On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples
      a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wines,
      of rich food filled with marrow, of well-aged wines strained clear.
    7And he will destroy on this mountain
      the shroud that is cast over all peoples,
      the sheet that is spread over all nations;
      8he will swallow up death forever.
     Then the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces,
      and the disgrace of his people he will take away from all the earth,
      for the Lord has spoken.
    9It will be said on that day,
      Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, so that he might save us.
      This is the Lord for whom we have waited;
      let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    PSALM (responsively)                           Psalm 23

    1The Lord| is my shepherd;
      I shall not | be in want.
    2The Lord makes me lie down | in green pastures
      
    and leads me be- | side still waters.
    3You restore my | soul, O Lord,
      and guide me along right pathways | for your name’s sake.
    4Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall | fear no evil;
      
    for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they | comfort me.
    5You prepare a table before me in the presence | of my enemies;
      you anoint my head with oil, and my cup is | running over.
    6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days | of my life,
      
    and I will dwell in the house of the | Lord forever.

    SECOND READING                      Philippians 4:1-9

    Though writing from prison and facing an uncertain future, Paul calls on the Philippians to rejoice and give thanks to God no matter what the circumstance. God’s peace is with us and binds together our hearts and minds in Jesus Christ, especially when things around us do not seem peaceful.

    1My brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved.

    2I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

    4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

    8Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.

    GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

    P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew, the twenty second chapter.

    GOSPEL                                       Matthew 22:1-14

    Jesus tells a parable indicating that the blessings of God’s kingdom are available to all, but the invitation is not to be taken lightly.

    1Once more Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying: 2“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding banquet for his son. 3He sent his slaves to call those who had been invited to the wedding banquet, but they would not come. 4Again he sent other slaves, saying, ‘Tell those who have been invited: Look, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready; come to the wedding banquet.’ 5But they made light of it and went away, one to his farm, another to his business, 6while the rest seized his slaves, mistreated them, and killed them. 7The king was enraged. He sent his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city. 8Then he said to his slaves, ‘The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. 9Go therefore into the main streets, and invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet.’ 10Those slaves went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both good and bad; so the wedding hall was filled with guests.

    11“But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing a wedding robe, 12and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe?’ And he was speechless. 13Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14For many are called, but few are chosen.”

    P: The Gospel of the Lord.

    Please be seated.                                  

    MESSAGE                                             David Allman, Pastor

    HYMN OF THE DAY            Let Us Break Bread                  ELW 471

    APOSTLES’ CREED

    I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

    I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living 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.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

    Prayers on behalf of others.

    Trusting in the transformative power of God’s loving Spirit, let us pray for the church, the world, and all in need.

    A brief silence.

    For the church of Jesus Christ in this and every land, that all followers of Christ share the mind of Christ and strive to live together in peace, staying firm in the Lord. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    For green pastures and still waters and all the beauty of the natural world, that creation flourishes and humankind lives in right relationship with all you have made. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    For the nations of the world and all who hold positions of authority, that they govern in accordance with God’s vision of justice, providing shelter and refuge to all in need, striving toward the goal of peace and prosperity for all. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    For all experiencing valleys of illness and grief, that they be healed and comforted and find rest in the presence of the Good Shepherd who walks beside them. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    For this community of believers, that wherever there is conflict or discord, the love of Christ may keep us united and make us mindful of all that is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, and excellent. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Here other intercessions may be offered.

    In thanksgiving for the beloved saints who now rest in your mercy, that their faithful witness guides your church until the day we join them at your heavenly feast. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    We remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    Protecting God, please keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.  Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    P: Gracious God, into your hands we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your unending love and amazing grace; through Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    Please join in singing the offertory response.

    OFFERTORY RESPONSECreate In Me a Clean Heart

    OFFERING PRAYER

    P: God of power, God of plenty, all things belong to you. We bring your gifts to the table, that all might be fed. Form us into the body of your Beloved, Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    The Meal

    God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. Communion Assistants, Ushers, and the choir will receive Holy Communion first.  If you are unable to come to the altar for Holy Communion, please let an usher know and Holy Communion will be brought to you.

    INVITATION TO COMMUNION              

    Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you. There are both wine and purple grape juice available.  Tell the Communion Assistant if you prefer juice. 

    WORDS OF INSTITUTION

    P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.

    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 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, forever and ever.  Amen.

    Please be seated.

    DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNIONLamb of God

    Please stand, if able.

    P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.

    C: Amen.

    SENDING OF COMMUNION

    P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned.  May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.

    C: Amen.

    BENEDICTION

    P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

    C: Choral Amen.

    SENDING HYMN            Love Divine, All Loves Excelling            ELW 631

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    P: Go in peace.  God is at work in you.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    October 8, 202319th Sunday after Pentecost

    In today’s gospel reading, Jesus tells a vineyard parable, which serves as an image of Israel, the prophets’ mission, and Christ’s death. For Christians, the vineyard also speaks of God’s love poured out in the blood of Christ, given to us for the forgiveness of sin. Grafted onto Christ the vine at baptism, we are nourished with wine and bread so that we may share Christ’s sufferings and know the power of his resurrection.

    PRELUDE

    PROCESSIONAL                       God Is So Good               Redeemer Choir

    GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

    CALL TO WORSHIP                    Trust in the Lord            Redeemer Choir

    Please stand, if able.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

    The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

    CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

    P: Blessed be God, the one who forms us, Jesus who bears the cross, the Spirit who makes our joy complete.

    C: Amen.

    P: Let us bow before God in humility, confessing our sin.

    Silence is kept for reflection.

    P: Steadfast and faithful God,

    C: you have revealed the ways of justice, yet we fail to follow you. We are overwhelmed by the world’s violence and suffering.  We are afraid to risk what we have for the sake of others. For the harm we have caused, known and unknown, forgive us.  For the unjust demands we place on others and your creation, forgive us. For the ways we turn away from you and our neighbor, forgive us. Lead us back to you and set us on the right path; in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

    P: Beloved in Christ, God’s justice stretches beyond all understanding. God’s compassion is beyond compare. In Jesus, God is always making a new way for us. In Christ, you are already and always forgiven.

    C: Amen.

    GATHERING HYMN      When I Survey the Wondrous Cross      ELW 803

    SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY

    P: The Lord be with you.

    C: And also with you.

    P: Beloved God, from you come all things that are good. Lead us by the inspiration of your Spirit to know those things that are right, and by your merciful guidance, help us to do them, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

    C: Amen.

    NEW MEMBER RECOGNITION

    Please be seated.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song from

    the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

    FIRST READING Isaiah 5:1-7

    The prophet sings a sad, parable-like love song about the relationship between God and Israel. In this song Israel is compared to a promising vineyard. Despite God’s loving care, the vineyard that is Israel has brought forth “wild grapes” of injustice and distress, when fine grapes of justice and righteousness were expected.

    1Let me sing for my beloved
      my love-song concerning his vineyard:
     My beloved had a vineyard
      on a very fertile hill.
    2He dug it and cleared it of stones,
      and planted it with choice vines;
     he built a watchtower in the midst of it,
      and hewed out a wine vat in it;
     he expected it to yield grapes,
      but it yielded wild grapes.
    3And now, inhabitants of Jerusalem
      and people of Judah,
     judge between me
      and my vineyard.
    4What more was there to do for my vineyard
      that I have not done in it?
     When I expected it to yield grapes,
      why did it yield wild grapes?
    5And now I will tell you
      what I will do to my vineyard.
     I will remove its hedge,
      and it shall be devoured;
     I will break down its wall,
      and it shall be trampled down.
    6I will make it a waste;
      it shall not be pruned or hoed,
      and it shall be overgrown with briers and thorns;
     I will also command the clouds
      that they rain no rain upon it.
    7For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts
      is the house of Israel,
     and the people of Judah
      are his pleasant planting;
     he expected justice,
      but saw bloodshed;
     righteousness,
      but heard a cry!

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    PSALM (responsively)                   Psalm 80:7-15

    7Restore us, O | God of hosts;
      let your face shine upon us, and we | shall be saved.
    8You have brought a vine | out of Egypt;
      
    you cast out the nations and | planted it.
    9You cleared the | ground for it;
      it took root and | filled the land.
    10The mountains were covered | by its shadow
      
    and the towering cedar trees | by its boughs.
    11You stretched out its tendrils | to the sea
      and its branches | to the river.
    12Why have you broken | down its wall,
      
    so that all who pass by pluck | off its grapes?
    13The wild boar of the forest has | ravaged it,
      and the beasts of the field have | grazed upon it.
    14Turn now, O | God of hosts,
      
    look | down from heaven;
    15behold and | tend this vine;
      preserve what your right | hand has planted.

    SECOND READING                          Philippians 3:4b-14

    Paul reviews some of his supposed credentials, which no longer have any bearing in comparison to the right relationship he has been given through the death of Christ. The power of Christ’s resurrection motivates him to press on toward the ultimate goal, eternal life with Christ.

    [Paul writes:] 4bIf anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: 5circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; 6as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.

    7Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. 8More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. 10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, 11if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

    12Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.

    GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

    P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew, the twenty first chapter.

    GOSPEL                                         Matthew 21:33-46

    Jesus tells a parable to the religious leaders who are plotting his death, revealing that their plans will, ironically, bring about the fulfillment of scripture.

    [Jesus said to the people:] 33“Listen to another parable. There was a landowner who planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a wine press in it, and built a watchtower. Then he leased it to tenants and went to another country. 34When the harvest time had come, he sent his slaves to the tenants to collect his produce. 35But the tenants seized his slaves and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. 36Again he sent other slaves, more than the first; and they treated them in the same way. 37Finally he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 38But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him and get his inheritance.’ 39So they seized him, threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. 40Now when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” 41They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserable death, and lease the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the produce at the harvest time.”

    42Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the scriptures:
     ‘The stone that the builders rejected
      has become the cornerstone;
     this was the Lord’s doing,
      and it is amazing in our eyes’?

    43Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that produces the fruits of the kingdom. 44The one who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; and it will crush anyone on whom it falls.”

    45When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they realized that he was speaking about them. 46They wanted to arrest him, but they feared the crowds, because they regarded him as a prophet.

    P: The Gospel of the Lord.

    Please be seated.                                  

    MESSAGE                                                                   David Allman, Pastor

    HYMN OF THE DAY                Jesus Loves Me!                           ELW 595

    Please stand, if able, for the Apostles’ Creed.   

    APOSTLES’ CREED

    I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

    I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered

    under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living 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/ANTHEM        Down to the River to Pray        Redeemer Choir

    OFFERTORY RESPONSECreate In Me a Clean Heart

    OFFERING PRAYER

    P: God of power, God of plenty, all things belong to you. We bring your gifts to the table, that all might be fed. Form us into the body of your Beloved, Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

    Prayers on behalf of others

    Trusting in the transformative power of God’s loving Spirit, let us pray for the church, the world, and all in need.

    A brief silence.

    God of all grace, you are the source of life and joy. Strengthen the resolve of your church throughout the world, that together we press on toward the goal of your heavenly call in Jesus Christ. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God of all creation, you plant and nourish the earth as your own precious vineyard. Bless fields and orchards and the hands of those who labor in them, that your people are fed with an abundant harvest of good fruit. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God of all the earth, you desire peace and justice between nations and peoples. Guide leaders of nations, states, provinces, and cities, that they faithfully govern your people with wisdom, integrity, and compassion. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God of all compassion, in Christ, you lovingly poured yourself out like wine for your people. Have mercy on all who mourn, who struggle with their mental health, who cry out for justice, who hunger, and all in any need. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    God of all steadfastness, you set Christ as the cornerstone and foundation of the church. Build up this congregation as living stones, that it stands in the community as a witness to your enduring faithfulness and love. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Here other intercessions may be offered.

    God of all hope, the saints who came before us lived and died with their hearts fixed on you. We give you thanks for their faithful witness, and we wait with hope for the great day when we join their voices in praise. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    We pray for the congregation and ministries at Calvary, and pray that the Spirit brings Calvary the right pastor. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    We remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, hear our prayer.

    Protecting God, please keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.  God of grace, hear our prayer.

    P: Gracious God, into your hands we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your unending love and amazing grace; through Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    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 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, forever and ever.  Amen.

    GRACE, LOVE, & FELLOWSHIP

    To be sung by the congregation

    May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us.

    May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us, forever and ever for evermore.  Amen.

    BENEDICTION

    P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

    C: Choral Amen.

    SENDING HYMN         Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise          ELW 834

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    P: Go in peace.  God is at work in you.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    October 1, 202318th Sunday after Pentecost

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=aHkNY1ZZHjY%3Fsi%3DMNlrtxwF0M2faNaC

    Jesus’ parable about two sons who don’t do what they say reveals surprises in the reign of God. In the reading from Ezekiel the people claim the ways of the Lord are unfair, while God offers repentance and new life. Paul urges us to look to Christ as a model of humility, putting the interests of others above our own. Nourished by the broken bread and shared cup, we offer our lives for the sake of our needy world.

    PRELUDE                   

    PROCESSIONAL     All People That on Earth Do Dwell   Redeemer Choir

    GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

    CALL TO WORSHIP            The Steadfast Love               Redeemer Choir

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

    The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

    CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

    P: Blessed be God, the one who forms us, Jesus who bears the cross,

    the Spirit who makes our joy complete.

    C: Amen.

    P: Let us bow before God in humility, confessing our sin.

    Silence is kept for reflection.

    P: Steadfast and faithful God,

    C: you have revealed the ways of justice, yet we fail to follow you. We are overwhelmed by the world’s violence and suffering. We are afraid to risk what we have for the sake of others. For the harm we have caused, known and unknown, forgive us. For the unjust demands we place on others and your creation, forgive us. For the ways we turn away from you and our neighbor, forgive us. Lead us back to you and set us on the right path; in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

    P: Beloved in Christ, God’s justice stretches beyond all understanding. God’s compassion is beyond compare. In Jesus, God is always making a new way for us. In Christ, you are already and always forgiven.

    C: Amen.

    GATHERING HYMN          In His Temple Now Behold Him         ELW 417

    SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY

    P: The Lord be with you.

    C: And also with you.

    P: God of love, giver of life, you know our frailties and failings. Give us your grace to overcome them, keep us from those things that harm us, and guide us in the way of salvation, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

    C: Amen.

    Please be seated.

    MEMORY MOMENT FOR DICK FRICKE SR., PATTY ELLENBERGER FRICKE, RICHARD FRICKE JR., & BARBARA FRICKE

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song

    from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

    FIRST READING                    Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32

    Ezekiel challenges those who think they cannot change because of what their parents were and did, or who think they cannot reverse their own previous behavior. God insistently invites people to turn and live.

    1The word of the Lord came to me: 2What do you mean by repeating this proverb concerning the land of Israel, “The parents have eaten sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge”? 3As I live, says the Lord God, this proverb shall no more be used by you in Israel. 4Know that all lives are mine; the life of the parent as well as the life of the child is mine: it is only the person who sins that shall die.

    25Yet you say, “The way of the Lord is unfair.” Hear now, O house of Israel: Is my way unfair? Is it not your ways that are unfair? 26When the righteous turn away from their righteousness and commit iniquity, they shall die for it; for the iniquity that they have committed they shall die. 27Again, when the wicked turn away from the wickedness they have committed and do what is lawful and right, they shall save their life. 28Because they considered and turned away from all the transgressions that they had committed, they shall surely live; they shall not die. 29Yet the house of Israel says, “The way of the Lord is unfair.” O house of Israel, are my ways unfair? Is it not your ways that are unfair?

    30Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, all of you according to your ways, says the Lord God. Repent and turn from all your transgressions; otherwise iniquity will be your ruin. 31Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed against me, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel? 32For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, says the Lord God. Turn, then, and live.

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    PSALM (responsively)                           Psalm 25:1-9

    1To | you, O Lord,
      I lift | up my soul.
    2My God, I put my trust in you; let me not be | put to shame,
      
    nor let my enemies triumph | over me.
    3Let none who look to you be | put to shame;
      rather let those be put to shame | who are treacherous.
    4Show me your | ways, O Lord,
      
    and teach | me your paths.
    5Lead me in your | truth and teach me,
      for you are the God of my salvation; in you have I trusted all | the day long.
    6Remember, O Lord, your compas- | sion and love,
      
    for they are from | everlasting.
    7Remember not the sins of my youth and | my transgressions;
      remember me according to your steadfast love and for the sake of your good- | ness, O Lord.
    8You are gracious and up- | right, O Lord;
      therefore you teach sinners | in your way.
    9You lead the low- | ly in justice
      and teach the low- | ly your way.

    SECOND READING                 Philippians 2:1-13

    As part of a call for harmony rather than self-seeking, Paul uses a very early Christian hymn that extols the selflessness of Christ in his obedient death on the cross. Christ’s selfless perspective is to be the essential perspective we share as the foundation for Christian accord.

    1If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, 2make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. 4Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. 5Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus,

    6who, though he was in the form of God,
      did not regard equality with God
      as something to be exploited,
    7but emptied himself,
      taking the form of a slave,
      being born in human likeness.
     And being found in human form,
      8he humbled himself
      and became obedient to the point of death—
      even death on a cross.
    9Therefore God also highly exalted him
      and gave him the name
      that is above every name,
    10so that at the name of Jesus
      every knee should bend,
      in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
    11and every tongue should confess
      that Jesus Christ is Lord,
      to the glory of God the Father.
    12Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed me, not only in my presence, but much more now in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

    The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

    C: Thanks be to God.

    Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.

    GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

    P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew, the twenty first chapter.

    GOSPEL                                         Matthew 21:23-32

    After driving the moneychangers out of the temple (21:12), Jesus begins teaching there. His authority is questioned by the religious leaders, who are supposed to be in charge of the temple.

    23When [Jesus] entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” 24Jesus said to them, “I will also ask you one question; if you tell me the answer, then I will also tell you by what authority I do these things. 25Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?” And they argued with one another, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 26But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we are afraid of the crowd; for all regard John as a prophet.” 27So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And he said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.

    28“What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ 29He answered, ‘I will not’; but later he changed his mind and went. 30The father went to the second and said the same; and he answered, ‘I go, sir’; but he did not go. 31Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him; and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him.”

    P: The Gospel of the Lord.

    Please be seated.                                  

    MESSAGE                                   David Allman, Pastor

    HYMN OF THE DAY     Oh, That the Lord Would Guide My Ways        ELW 772

    Please stand, if able, for the Apostles’ Creed.   

    APOSTLES’ CREED

    I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

    I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living 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.

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

    Prayers on behalf of others.

    Remembering the caring and generous works of God, we pray for the church, creation, and the needs of our neighbors.

    A brief silence.

    We put our trust in you as we pray for the church. Give bishops, pastors, deacons, and teachers the gifts of wisdom and discernment. Be with them in bold truth and faithful witness. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    Lead us in your truth as we pray for creation. Empower us to look to the interests of others as we make choices that impact the environment. Summon us to be advocates for healthy waterways, habitats, and air. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    Lead us in justice as we pray for those in government, the military, and other positions of authority. Give them humble and willing hearts, looking to the needs of others. We pray also for our enemies. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    Trusting your goodness, we pray for all caregivers and people who are sick or suffering in any way. Give them encouragement and consolation in your presence. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    Teach us your paths as we pray for this congregation. Be at work in us and unite us in your love as we labor together for the sake of the gospel. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    Here other intercessions may be offered.

    We give thanks for all the saints who died secure in the knowledge of salvation. Keep us fearless in our faith and certain of your resurrection. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    We remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    Protecting God, please keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.  Merciful God, receive our prayer.

    P: Remember us according to your steadfast love as we offer these and the prayers of our heart, trusting in your compassion made known through Jesus Christ.

    C: Amen.

    Please be seated.

    OFFERING/ANTHEM                   Pass Me Not                  Redeemer Choir

    Please stand, if able, and join in singing the offertory response.

    OFFERTORY RESPONSECreate In Me a Clean Heart

    OFFERING PRAYER

    P: God of power, God of plenty, all things belong to you. We bring your gifts to the table, that all might be fed. Form us into the body of your Beloved, Jesus Christ, our Savior.

    C: Amen.

    The Meal

    God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. Communion Assistants, Ushers, and the choir will receive Holy Communion first.  If you are unable to come to the altar for Holy Communion, please let an usher know and Holy Communion will be brought to you.

    INVITATION TO COMMUNION              

    Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you. There are both wine and purple grape juice available.  Tell the Communion Assistant if you prefer juice. 

    WORDS OF INSTITUTION

    P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.

    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 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, forever and ever.  Amen.

    Please be seated.

    DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNIONLamb of God

    Please stand, if able.

    P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.

    C: Amen.

    SENDING OF COMMUNION

    P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned.  May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.

    C: Amen.

    BENEDICTION

    P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

    C: Choral Amen.

    SENDING HYMN           O Living Bread From Heaven                 ELW 542

    Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

    P: Go in peace.  God is at work in you.

    C: Thanks be to God.