THE EPISTLE LESSON Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12
THE GOSPEL LESSON Mark 10:2-16
SERMON "Vulnerable Disciples: Advocates for the Powerless"
Worship Notes
Today is World Communion Sunday, which originated in the Presbyterian Church (USA) in 1936. From the beginning, this event was planned with the hope that other denominations would embrace it. In 2009, it is observed by congregations in the United Methodist, United Church of Christ, and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) among others. As we join Christians from around the globe at the Lord's Table, we understand that it is one bread of life and one cup of blessing that unites us as one community in Christ. In service to God, today we are also mindful of our responsibility to care for the powerless in our community. As a visible sign of that caring, our Deacons will be taking communion elements to the homebound within our Westminster community. We also see our community displayed on the wall in the sanctuary through the blessings cards the congregation completed in worship last week.
We observe World Communion Sunday in special ways. The liturgy, hymns, and music offered in worship of God today are drawn from different cultures, countries, and traditions throughout Christ's global church. The country of origin for each element of the service has been identified in the bulletin.
As the service begins, we will be called to gather around the table by our youngest Christians who will sing about the circle of community that is Christ's church. As they sing, the Chancel Choir and worship leaders will enter the sanctuary from different directions to symbolize that we "come from the North, the South, the East, and the West" to take our place at the table of the Lord. As we observe the sacrament of communion, we will do so through four different varieties of breads, each representing a different cultural or national heritage that signifies the diversity of the body of Christ. As an additional sign of our unity, we will sing communion hymns as we partake of the elements.
As our communion and corporate worship draws to an end, we will unite in singing "Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ." While we sing, the Chancel Choir will lead us out as we follow the cross and bear God's Word into the world.
