Gathering to Worship God 

This is a time for worshippers to prepare themselves to receive the Word of God.  This includes a Welcome and Announcements, Call to Worship, a hymn, a Prayer of Confession (in unison by the entire congregation) followed by an Assurance of Pardon, a Passing of the Peace, and, at the 10:30 a.m. service only, Discovery Time for the Children.  

·Listening for God’s Word  

This is where worshippers receive the Word of God from scripture and preaching.  It begins with a Prayer for Illumination to call upon the Holy Spirit to open our minds and hearts to God’s Word, followed by the morning’s scripture reading and the sermon.  Sometimes the choir sings an anthem during this portion of worship.  The sermon is typically followed by a hymn.  

Responding to God’s Word

This is a time for worshippers to act in response to the Word they have received.  It includes a time for offerings and dedication of the offerings, including singing of the Doxology (Praise God from whom all blessings flow…), Prayers of the People, where the pastor offers prayers of thanksgiving and petitions to God concerning the church, the world (including the country and community), people who are sick or hurting, and ourselves as individuals.  This prayer is followed by the congregation sharing the Lord’s Prayer.  When the Lord’s Supper is celebrated, it is celebrated during this time in the service.  The service concludes with a hymn and a Benediction, encouraging the Scattering (of the congregation) to Serve God.