URGENT REQUEST FOR PRAYERS AND ACTION

Bristol Hill UCC, Volney Protests Expansion of Oswego County Landfill

In 1980 Oswego County began construction on a Landfill behind the Volney Congregational Church on Bristol Hill UCC in Volney, NY. Despite the objections of church members and other citizens of the town, the Landfill was approved for operation in 1983.

The Oswego County Landfill will grow to the point where it's edges lie within 1,200' of the Bristol Hill church property. The landfill also borders a swamp where litter has spread, and suspected pollutants have spilled into neighbor's wells. People are experiencing more cancer and health problems around the landfill. The environmental effects are devastating, and pungent odors frequently greet parishioners and visitors as they enter the church grounds.

Bristol Hill is a small country church with a rich history. In 2001 it was placed on the National Historical Ledger as a way station along the Underground Railroad. Several African Americans and European American members joined together and risked their lives and property to hide fugitive slaves seeking freedom from the South.

Recently, Oswego County has made application to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to expand the Landfill by increasing the height of the mound by some 50’. Again, the church has been working to fight this expansion and to urge the DEC to turn down the application.

Please pray for this congregation and Pastor Jim Hinman. If you find it within your hearts to support their efforts, please write to:
Joseph M. Dlugolenski
NYSDEC
615 Erie Boulevard West
Syracuse, New York 13204-2400

Ask Mr. Dlugolenski to deny the application for the expansion of the Oswego County Landfill with specific reasons, such as the environmental concerns and/or the historical significance of the Volney Congregational Church on Bristol Hill, Volney, NY.

Blessings,

Rick

Scripturally Based Worship Resources

Palm Sunday Year C

Call to Worship (excerpts from Psalm 118, adapted)

L: O, give thanks to the LORD, for God is good. God’s steadfast love endures forever!
P: This is the day that the LORD has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
L: Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the LORD. We bless you from the house of the LORD.
P: You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God, I will extol you.
L: O give thanks to the LORD, for God is good; for God’s steadfast love endures forever. Let us worship God.

Unison Prayer of Confession (a meditation freely adapted from Psalm 118:22)

The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. The earliest Christians understood that these words foretold Jesus’ rejection by the people who should have received him gladly. Are we surprised? In our heart of hearts we know that we needn’t be. We also reject Jesus. We turn away from his command to love our friends much less enemies. We look past those in greatest need. We blame victims and honor those who victimize. We jump onto the bandwagon of pride in worshipping as gods everything that is less than God – the flag instead of faith, corporate greed instead of the common good, an obsession with personal comfort rather than a desire for true spiritual peace.

O God, we pray that you will forgive us. May we shout our hosannas truly. May it be that we will rejoice in your grace, work courageously to do your justice, make peace, and hold steadfast to your most excellent way of love for all people. Hear our prayers, O God, as we offer them in the name of the One who comes in your name to save, even Jesus the Christ. Amen.

Assurance of Forgiveness (adapted from excerpts of Isaiah 50:4-9a and Psalm 31:9-16)

L : It is the Lord who helps us, who is to declare us guilty?
P: Be gracious to us, O LORD, for we am in distress. But we trust in you, O LORD; we say, "You are our God.” Let your face shine upon your servants; save us in your steadfast love.
L: Take heart. God is gracious and kind, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. To all who forgive others and who sincerely ask for forgiveness, God offers forgiveness. Indeed! In Christ we are forgiven!
P : Thanks be to God!

Statement of Faith (a litany adapted from Philippians 2:5-11)


L : Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness.
P: And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death-- even death on a cross.
L: Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
P: and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God.
U : Thanks be to God, the Three in One: Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer.

Litany of Commission and Blessing


L : As we begin this week of meditation, song and sacrament, let us pray that it may be truly holy.
P : Help us to follow the story of Jesus’ passion, take in the hard teachings of the meaning of discipleship and the promise of God’s grace in the midst of suffering, and receive the joy of a new, transformed life through Christ.
L : Blessings and honor, glory and power be unto you, O Christ.
P: Indeed! Blessed it the One who comes in the name of the Lord. And blessings to those who follow in faith, hope and love. Amen.

Resurrection Thoughts on a dreary Lenten Monday

I know that I shouldn’t have them (it’s Lent after all), but I do – Resurrection thoughts! I’ve been thinking about a clergy colleague and friend, named Dick, lately. He died last fall. I got to know him a dozen or so years ago while serving together on a Committee on Ministry and at the erstwhile Clergy Camps conducted each summer by my predecessor, Judy Hjorth.

Dick was the kind of friend with whom you could “pick up” right where you were weeks, months, even years before. He was a solid pastor, a very decent man. He shared the same birthday with my wife and a love of CHEEZITS with me.

Dick loved to fish. That’s the reason I’ve been thinking of him. I don’t like to fish. I don’t eat fish. But I do remember that April 1 (next to Christmas and Easter) was Dick’s high holy day – the beginning of Fishing Season. And so, he’s been in my thoughts.

What does it mean to love, and faith, hope in the face of death? Traditionally, the Church has held that Jesus’ resurrection provides us with the hope that doesn’t disappoint, that gives comfort to the bereaved, and courage to face life’s challenges. Why? It’s because death is not the end of life.

There are those who say that belief in the Resurrection is not part of the core of our faith as Christians. Whether or not the Resurrection happened is beside the point they say. It’s more important that we live a good, godly life – promoting justice, righting the wrongs of society, lifting up those who are oppressed – here and now. In this way we experience and share the reality of the transforming power of the Resurrection as God intended.

This is true. God does want us to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). In fact this is what Jesus’ Resurrection frees us to do. Because we do not have to be afraid of death, we can live, love and do what is right without fear of death.

And so, I believe in the Resurrection of the living and the dead. I know that this belief may seem rather “old hat” to many progressive thinkers today. But I do believe. And, I rejoice in the hope that the Resurrection affects, the comfort that it gives and the new life that it guarantees.

I rejoice that God is with me in this life – guiding, challenging, and loving. Even more, I look forward to the welcome that God promises beyond death. Our faith is about building relationships. The heaven to which I can look forward after serving God all the rest of my days on earth is a place where my relationship with God will become perfect in love, complete in wisdom, joy and peace.

I’m going to have some CHEEZITS this Sunday and think of Dick doing some heavenly fishing. As trite as this may sound, I smile at this thought and already feel a certain sense of tranquility, of whimsy, of perspective that strengthens me to face the day. Praise God.

Blessings,

Rick

What Pastor’s Need to Know and Have:

A Non Exhaustive List of what Seminary probably doesn’t Teach and the Church Profile doesn’t Include

General

1. Why you’re doing this (understanding of Call as applied generally and also specifically to what is happening “in the moment.” There is a sense that each ministry setting changes us. Therefore, how do we evaluate the changes vis a vis our call?)
2. Congregational Expectations of Pastoral Leader (preaching style, visitation, committee work)
3. Avoid isolation (individually and as a church)
4. How to access Continuing Education (How do we define this. Sometimes not directly translatable to parish concerns
5. Money. How do we handle it? How church handles it. (Perhaps do some family of origin work on self.)

Specifics

1. History/Culture of congregation (angers, grief, joys, fears)
2. When was the “Golden Age” and what was it like?
3. Good understanding of Church sociology (congregational formation/systems) Need to recognize the “systems” and systemic issues and dynamics
4. Ability to assess/address the systemic challenges
5. The identity of the real power brokers in the congregation and how they work.
6. The power of your predecessor/or other “divine”
7. Mutual leadership styles/expectations (laity, clergy)
8. Know own spiritual style/type (how you process and reach decisions).
9. Willingness to learn new “tricks” (find growing edges and be willing to stretch)
10. A sense of humor (thick skin)
11. Location and nature of support system (commitment to a discipline of self-care, including self-understanding
12. Recognize how ministry setting changes you.
13. How to deal with personal changes both internally and externally caused and sourced.
14. Spousal/partner relationship.
15. Clergywomen and issues of household responsibilities.
16. How to help a congregation find its sense of call.
17. Congregational self-image (“stepping stone,” “teaching,” “not good enough,” etc.)
18. Know current and major social issues.
19. Budgets and finances (financial management)
20. Technology and automation (websites, etc.)
21. Visit judiciously/consistently
22. Wider/ecumenical/community resources
23. Mission studies

Undoubtedly, you can come up with your own list of what Pastors need to know as they begin in a new setting of ministry. This is the list that I compiled from form and informal discussions with pastors from each of the Associations of in the Upstate Region over a period of several months. Of course, it would also be interesting to compile a list of what Churches need to know in welcoming a new Pastor. (A future project, no doubt...)

Blessings,

Rick

Scripturally Based Worship Resources

Lent 5C

A Personal Meditation on the Lections for Lent 5C

When Judas Iscariot accused Mary of wastefully anointing Jesus with ointment because the cost equivalent could have been used for the poor, John the Evangelist commented that Judas didn’t care for the poor, really. As group treasurer, he just wanted control of the money for himself. And besides, he was a thief, John confided.

When I give my money, when I pledge myself for the work of the gospel, about whom am I caring? What are my reasons for believing, committing or giving? How will God receive these offerings of mine if my motives are impure, illicit or otherwise self-serving?

St. Ignatius taught that “Human beings are created to praise, reverence, and serve God our Lord, and by means of doing this to save their souls.” But what if the hands we raise in praise, the “Amens” we say in reverence remain in the sanctuary? What if our lips are the only parts of our selves that honor God? Are the words of our mouths enough praise? I fear not. Christ has said that God wants our hearts as well as our words to praise, reverence and serve.

What is the righteousness of God? How do we, with the Apostle Paul, come to know Christ and the power of the resurrection? Somehow, I think this can only happen as I seek to give up any thought of reward. I praise, reverence and serve God not for my own ends, not for my salvation, but for the love of God. The gratitude in my heart that God loves me, the joy in my soul that God trusts me to serve and love all those whom God loves, are all for God's sake (not mine).

About whom do I care? If I care about “me”, I fear that I am lost. In pressing on toward the goal of the heavenly call of God in Christ the Spirit leads me along the way of discovery.

At least this is what is in my heart today. What’s in yours?

Service Prayers Based upon the Lections for Lent 5C

Call to Worship (adapted from Psalm 126)

L: The LORD has done great things for us. Let us rejoice.
P: When the LORD restores our fortunes, we become like those who are in a dream. Our mouth is filled with laughter and our tongues with shouts of joy.
L: May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.
P: Indeed! We rejoice in God and gladly offer our praise for the great things God has done for us.
L: Let us worship God.

Unison Prayer of Confession: (a Meditation upon Philippians 3:4b-14)

Holy God, righteous God, merciful God…O please be merciful. We fear your holiness and righteousness. How can we not be afraid! We are afraid because we can never measure up to your holiness. We can never be righteous enough. And so we pray for your mercy.

Indeed, we need your mercy, forgiveness and grace. We need you to forgive us when we are too proud of our accomplishments, when as Paul says we are too confident in the flesh. We can point to our successes in business, or sports, or because of the accomplishments of our family. We need you to forgive us when we feel that we have gone too low to ask. God will never forgive me, we say. And so, we fail to ask…to trust…to love.

Yet you are God, and you are mercifully holy and graciously righteous. Forgive us, gracious God. Grant us the gifts of humility and faith so that we may give our very lives over into your keeping and steadfast love. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Forgiveness (adapted from Isaiah 43:16-21)

L: Thus says the LORD, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings out chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness of our souls and rivers in the desert of our longing.
P: Thanks be to you, O God.
L: In Christ we are forgiven!
P: Thanks be to you, O Christ! Amen!

Litany of Commissioning and Blessing (adapted from Psalm 126)

L: Remember, the LORD has done great things for us,
P: And, we rejoice.
L: Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.
P: We promise to go forth from this place, bearing the seeds of the Gospel of Christ: hope for the poor; love for the neglected, the forgotten, the unlovable; peace for the war weary and victims of violence; justice for the oppressed; healing for the sick; new life for those who have given up.
L: Go in Peace to love and serve our God.
P: Amen.

CNY Association Councils talking Covenant

The Oneida and Susquehanna Associations have been discussing "Covenant" lately. More to the point, each Association has embarked upon a process of visioning.

In their discussions they have considered what it means to be an Association in the UCC, how can they be most effective in ministering to and with local churches, and what are the best leadership and structural models to employ.

Why hold these meetings? The nominating committee of the Oneida Association was having difficulty in presenting a complete slate of offices. The council of the Susquehanna Association realized that the By-Laws of the Association were in great need of updating in order to reconcile this document with present realities and future needs and opportunities for ministry.

Local churches run up against some of the same obstacles. In response to requests for help in rewriting by-laws or in filling slates of officers I always say that we have to start from the beginning and that "form follows function." That is, churches and associations must first re-consider what God is calling them to do and whom God is calling them to be in ministry and mission. With this understanding of "Calling" in place we can then begin the process discerning the best ways to structure the organization and model the leadership in concert with our understanding of ministry and mission.

In our discussions each Association Council began by considering the Manual on Church, recently published by the UCC Parish Life and Leadership Ministry Team in the national denominational offices in Cleveland, OH. This document discusses the relationships of the local, regional and national settings of the UCC in the context of covenant.

(Click here for a direct link to the Manual on Church.) http://www.ucc.org/ministers/church/moc.pdf

(and the accompanying Discussion Guide)

http://www.ucc.org/ministers/church/moc-discussion.pdf

The UCC consists of these various settings of ministry that are held together by covenant -- the free decision of these bodies to "covenant with the Lord and one with another and [to] bynd [them] selves in the presence of God, to walke together in all his waies, according as he is pleased to reveale himself unto [them] in his blessed word of truth." (Salem Church Covenant, 1629)

In the UCC the Association is given the primary responsibility of encouraging, maintaining and building the sense of covenant between all settings of the denomination.

Local churches join the UCC through voting to become members of an Association. Likewise, Associations are given the responsibility of authorizing, nurturing, supporting and overseeing the call of individuals who sense a vocation of ministry on behalf of the church.

So, Associations are very important in the life of the United Church of Christ. The Councils of both the Oneida and Susquehanna Associations have developed proposed Vision Statements that they will present to local church representatives at the Spring meetings of the Association.

In the mean time each council is discussing how to proceed in developing models of structure and leadership that are relevant to their visions of ministry among, with and for the churches of the Associations, the New York Conference and the national settings of the United Church of Christ.

Blessings,

Rick

An Appeal from Common Global Ministries for Darfur

As your churches are in the midst of the One Great Hour of Sharing special Lenten offering, I share this update from Common Global Ministries regarding the humanitarian crisis in Darfur. Rick

Dear Disciples and UCC Friends of Global Ministries,

The resolution “Promoting Peace for All in the Sudan,” passed by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ in 2005, called for the Sudanese government to cease what has been recognized as genocide against its own citizens, and to engage with the international community in efforts to obtain a comprehensive peace that includes Darfur.

The May 2006 Darfur Peace Agreement promised to stop the horrific violence in western Sudan, yet it was too limited to be effective and has been ignored by Khartoum. Sudanese leaders continue to hamper humanitarian aid and support the raiding and burning of villages and the rape and murder committed by the militia group, the janjaweed.

A pastoral letter released March 7, 2007 and signed by UCC and Disciples General Ministers and Presidents John Thomas and Sharon Watkins, Global Ministries Co-Executives David Vargas and Cally Rogers Witte, and Africa Office Executive Sandra Gourdet, expresses “As Christians, we realize that we must share in the responsibility to protect human life.”

To read the pastoral letter, click on "An Appeal from Common Global Ministries for Darfur" title at the beginning of this posting.

To focus members of the UCC and Disciples on the urgent need to respond to the crisis in the Sudan, we are beginning an emphasis called Sudan: A Responsibility to Protect. This is a place where background materials, worship resources, updates and opportunities for action will be posted.

Our UCC and Disciples church leaders conclude their March 7 letter with an appeal for action:

Participate in our two churches’ Dear Sudan campaign.
Give generously to Week of Compassion (WOC) and One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) special appeals to support efforts to deliver humanitarian relief and supplies to the region and efforts to aid the internally displaced in Sudan/Darfur.

Both WOC and OGHS support the work of ACT/Caritas in Sudan/Dafur.

Visit regularly the Global Ministries website for updates, resources and links to other sites.

Join Church World Service’s letter writing campaign. Church World Service brings much needed relief to persons fleeing the violence in Sudan.

Sign up for the Disciples Justice Action Network and the UCC Take Action through Justice and Witness Ministries.

We firmly believe that 1 John 3:18 is calling us to love not only in word or speech, but in truth and action and that God’s spirit is calling for peace and justice on behalf of the people of Sudan/Darfur. Let us heed God’s call for lasting peace during this Lenten season.”

Grateful for your partnership in global mission,

Jan Aerie and Bob Shebeck

Please contact us, if you want any further information:

For Disciples:

bshebeck@dom.disciples.org
Bob Shebeck
Executive, Mission Interpretation
and Constituency Relationships
DOM/Global Ministries
PO Box 1986
Indianapolis, IN 46206
317-713-2571

For the UCC:

aeriej@ucc.org
Jan Aerie
Executive, Mission Interpretation
and Education
WCM/Global Ministries
700 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44115
216-736-3204

Through Global Ministries, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ are committed to a ministry of Critical Presence around the world. Our challenge is to timely and appropriately meet God’s people and creation at the point of deepest need: spiritually, physically, emotionally, and/or economically.

Scripturally Based Service Prayers

Lent 4C

Call to Worship (adapted from Psalm 32)

L: Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
P: O God, you are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance.
L: Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
P: Let us worship God!

Call to Confession: (adapted from Psalm 32)

L: While I kept silence, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand, O God, was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer.
P: Then I acknowledged my sin to you, O God, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD," and you forgave the guilt of my sin.
L: Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to God. Let us confess our sins.

Unison Prayer of Confession: (a meditation on Luke 15:11b-31)

Gracious God, when I reflect upon my sins, how I have missed the mark of your righteousness, how I have fallen short of my self-expectations, I am amazed that you receive me gladly with open arms. How is it that you can do this? I am not worthy of your love. My life too often becomes empty, lifeless. I too frequently give into the belief that your abundance is my entitlement. I tell myself that I have a right to health, wealth, privilege and power. I have been too proud to acknowledge my need for your mercy. Accept my prayers for forgiveness now, O God. Only you can save me. Only you can say the word, and I am free. Forgive me and help me to forgive – myself and others. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

A Litany of Grace: (adapted from 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 and Psalm 32)

L: So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away. See, everything has become new!
P: Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Happy are those to whom the LORD imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
L: All this is from God, who reconciled us to God’s self through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to God’s self, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.
P: For our sake God made Christ to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Christ we might become the righteousness of God. Thanks be to God! Amen.

Unison Prayer of Thanksgiving and Dedication (a meditation on Joshua 5:9-12)

We rejoice and give you thanks, O God, for all of your blessings. Like those led by our ancestor Joshua you have brought us to a place of great abundance. You provide and we partake. Now receive these tokens that we return to your keeping from the fruits of our labors. Bless those who do not have. May these gifts be used for their benefit and for the sake of your justice and love. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

A Litany of Parting: (adapted from 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 and Psalm 32)

L: So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making Christ’s appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
P: From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way.
L: God will instruct us and teach us the way we should go; God will counsel us. God’s eye will be upon us.
P: We will be glad in the LORD and rejoice. We will shout for joy.
L: Go in Peace, knowing that God goes with you.
P: Amen!

The Good News Across Upstate – Vol. 2

In volume one of “The Good News Across Upstate” I shared how various pastors wrote to their congregations in their newsletter articles of how the Lenten season speaks to our soul, our individual faith life. In this posting we note that other pastors used the space allotted to them in their newsletters to speak of matters affecting their parishioners and their churches.

Virginia Anderson told her flock at Friedens Church, Syracuse, how she remembered the family owned restaurant, Ann Strathers, in the Chicago neighborhood of Andersonville where she grew up. The neighborhood has changed drastically over the years but Ann Strathers has remained, one of the few businesses to do so. It still offers its menu of good, traditional Swedish food. She writes, “it remains because it was somehow able to keep it’s identity through all of the changes, and it did so because of the quality of what it had to offer to those who live and lived there.”

Ginny used the example of Ann Strathers in talking about the situation in which Friedens Church now finds itself. No longer surrounded by a neighborhood of German Americans, how is this “German” church to respond? she posited. In answer to her own question she wrote that Friedens needed to "build on the foundations of the church family. Remember that this is a place that has been a magnate for the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of it founders."

She continued, “we must find ways to reach out to those in the neighborhood so that our Holy Ground becomes somehow the Holy Ground of others who will maintain it and care for it in the future. Like Ann Strathers we must find a way to remain and serve the wonderful spiritual food that so inspired those first immigrants. We must set a table where all are welcome.”

Mark Lawson reflected upon the fact that this Lent marks the fifth anniversary of the War in Iraq. “All war is awful,” he wrote in the UCC Bayberry (Liverpool) newsletter, “and no matter who you are or what your political persuasion, you should hate this war, too, and want it to be over.” He pointed out that the vast majority of Americans agree with this statement and only disagree over how and when to end the conflict.

He went on to say that he is “most impressed to share…that none of the options are good ones. We are searching for the option that is the lesser of all evils.” And so, from his point of view, “everyone could stand a strong dose of humility when opining about Iraq.” He concluded, “The message of the Lenten season is the same every year, but it seems to have special poignancy this year. Simply put, it is this: we are sinners, and human sinfulness plunges us into tragic situations we cannot solve on our own. But God has not abandoned us, and there is always hope. Just beyond the cross is always an empty tomb.”

A Prayer for the Church and World during this Lenten Season of Reflection

Holy God, we rejoice that you trust us to do your will in the world, and to be examples of the newness of life that you give us in Christ through our communities of faith. Please forgive us when we do not trust your promises of love and grace. Open our eyes, free our tongues, strengthen our hands to do the work of faith, to proclaim your love to our love-starved communities, and to shine the light of peace on the darkness of hatred, greed and violence. Encourage us to do what is right, to pray for what is good, to believe what is true and work for all that is beautiful.

With the psalmist we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and of Baghdad, of Belfast, of Mogadishu, of Orlando, of Guantanamo, of so many places in the world that you love so much. Grant that we may finally learn to accept your love as do the chicks that gather under their mother hen’s wings. In the name of Christ we pray. Amen.

Rick

The Good News Across Upstate – Vol. 1

The good news of God’s grace comes to us in many guises. St. Francis is reputed to have told the friars of the order that he founded, “Preach the good news, and sometimes use words.”

Indeed, actions do speak louder than words, but words also have their effect. So, for this posting, I thought I’d share some of the words written in newsletters from across the Upstate Region for your meditation, instruction and consideration.

Many pastors in their newsletter columns for March wrote about the spiritual aspects of the season of Lent.

John Gibbon, pastor at The Park Church, Elmira, wrote of how Lent “recalls for us the whole reality of human life. It reminds us that there is a rhythm in life of good and bad times, joyful and sorrowful experiences, comic and tragic moments. Lent can help us to remember that life needs a balance.”

Patty Farr, writing from her desk as co-pastor of Emmanuel Church, Watertown, reminds us that the “most interesting thing about this [Lenten] journey is that it does not require us to move one single inch! It is an inner journey, a journey we can take in our living rooms and kitchens and workplaces. It is a journey of the heart. Christ wants to lead us to discover more deeply who we are – and what it means that we have a soul, that we ARE a soul, and that our soul is linked with the Soul of God.”

Joe Connolly wrote to the saints in Norwich that growing spiritually requires discipline. He remembered how much he used to be able to read when he lived in New York City. The hour long commute before and after work on the train afforded him the time to read the bible and other religious works. He urged his parishioners to find those times that can be set aside for making the most of such soul-searching and mind-expanding pursuits.

Jane Winters described the questions that the faith community of First UCC, Elmira throughout the Sundays of Lent: Am I God Centered? Am I Committed to My Church? Am I Developing a Satisfying Prayer Life? Am I Reaching Out Beyond Myself to Serve Others? Am I Seeking to Constantly Strengthen Relationships in My Family? And How Will I Use My Gifts After Easter to the Glory of God?

A Prayer for the Spiritual Blessings of Lent

Gracious God, help us to embrace every day that you give us as a precious gift. Teach us to look for your love and mercy in every moment, through all of our experiences. Strengthen us to walk with you in faith, to set aside times of study and prayer for and with you each day, and help us to consider how we will grow into a deeper relationship with you. Open our hearts to our sisters and brothers around the world who are hungry, or cold, or afraid, or poor, or who suffer violence or the threat of violence. Remind us that we are followers of the Prince of Peace and hear us as we pray in this blessed name, even Jesus Christ, our savior. Amen.

Rick

Scripturally Based Worship Resources

Lent 3C

Call to Worship (adapted from Isaiah55: 1, 2-3 and Psalm 63:1, 3-5,7)

L: Listen, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
P: O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
L: Listen carefully, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food. “Incline your ear, and come to me,” says our God; “listen, so that you may live.” God will make with us an everlasting covenant just like that of our ancestors.
P: Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you, O God, as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name. My soul is satisfied as with a rich feast, and my mouth praises you with joyful lips, for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I sing for joy.
L: Let us worship God.

Unison Prayer of Confession (a meditation on the lectionary texts for Lent 3C)

Gracious God, Holy One, be merciful to us. We trust that you do not think as we do. Your thoughts are far beyond ours. Therefore, though we may deserve judgment you show patience; though we are quick to judge others your forgive; though we are quick to complain when things don’t go our way, you remain above reproach; though we test your patience, love, mercy and impartiality, you remain steadfast; though we throw our lot with the gods of merchandise, nationality, lifestyle and self, you call us back with a word and welcome us with an embrace. Welcome us now, we pray, as we come begging your forgiveness. Please, look upon us with twinkling eyes. Pardon us with a smile. Love us and help us to love ourselves. Celebrate the joyful return of hearts that are deeply sorry for our failure to follow, to trust, to love you and all whom you love. In the name of your Son, our teacher, savior and friend, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon (adapted from Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8 and 1 Corinthians 10:1-13)

L: As the prophet implored, “Seek the LORD while he may be found, call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake their way, and the unrighteous their thoughts; let them return to the LORD, that he may have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”
P: So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.
L: No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.
P: Thank you God that you are merciful and forgive us when we fall. Lift us up and help us to accept the forgiveness that you offer through lives transformed by your Grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Commission and Benediction (based upon the lectionary texts for Lent 3C)

L: Let us bless God as long as we live; and lift up our hands and call on God’s name.
P: God has been our help, and in the shadow of God’s wings we will sing for joy. Our souls cling to you; your right hand holds us up.
L: See, you shall call nations that you do not know, and nations that do not know you shall run to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for God has blessed you.
P: Trusting in God, we will seek to be a blessing to others: doing what is right; loving God; feeding the hungry with good things; pursuing peace; giving hope, rejoicing in the life that God gives.
L: Go in peace, to love and serve God. Amen

Blessings,

Rick

"Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" -- Isaiah 6:8

It is always a privilege to take part in discussions with individual Christians and congregations regarding God's call. Some congregations wonder where God is leading them as they search for a new pastor. Some congregations wonder whether to proceed with merger negotiations with other churches. Persons who have sensed God's call to ministry seek the wider church's blessing for their call. Other persons who have been involved in ministry are questioning where God will lead them in the next phase of their discipleship.

This past week involved several such discussions. Peter Frye was approved for ordination pending a call by the Oneida Associationon February 25.

Search Committees from three Upstate congregations met with me last week. I presented the first batch of ministerial profiles to the search committee of Plymouth, Syracuse. They were impressed by the candidate who emphasized the need to help people not only learn more about God, but to know God.

I read through a draft of the church profile with the search committee at Plainville Christian. They have done a fine job in presenting a creative story of the congregation. They are excited about finding a new pastor and a little anxious over whether they can find the "right" one.

I read through the final draft of the church profile with the search committee at First Congregational, Binghamton. It was exciting to discuss the committee's interest in developing a creative approach to ministry. I proposed that the church develop a four year mission plan, that they call the next pastor to serve within the context of that plan, and that they enter into a more intentional covenant of mutual support with the Association Committee on Ministry. The church in consultation with the pastor and the Association would develop clear expectations of each covenantal partner. The pastor would be called to a renewable, four year term. The search committee agreed to follow through with this proposal with the church Council, other leaders, and ultimately with the congregation.

The Susquehanna Committee on Authorized Ministry also met this week. These meetings almost always deal with the real lives, hopes and frustrations of those who are or who feel called to ministry. Two individuals asked for recognition of training completed in non-UCC programs. We could grant equivalency to one, but not to the other. These are difficult decisions to make. The committee has spent several meetings in prayerful consideration of each of these candidate's requests. We continue to pray for God's wisdom and guidance.

Of course, as we participate in these vocational discussions with others, we cannot help but reflect on our own sense of call. It is a great joy for me to consider how I would answer the question that I ask all candidates for ordination, "How are you persuaded that God is calling you to ordained ministry in the United Church of Christ?" Or, more generally for all of us who are called to follow Christ, "What does your baptism mean for you?"

My answer to both questions remains the same, "I don't know where God is leading me, but I do know that God is leading me. I know that God loves and forgives me, and gives me the strength to love and forgive myself. I know that God calls and encourages me to love others, to broaden my worldview, to enlarge my capacity to accept the differences of others, and to rejoice in the knowledge of God's abiding presence in all that I (we) do.

I believe that God is still calling me to a ministry of reconciliation by encouraging congregations to be the church in mission and equipping individual disciples with the knowledge of God's call of them to service. All of this is for the purpose of faithfully loving the world that God loves and gives the Son to save.

Blessings to all of us as we discern where God is leading.

Rick

Scripturally Based Service Prayers

Lent 2c

Call to Worship (a meditation on the Lectionary Texts for Lent 2c)

L: God calls us to follow, and promises to lead and guide us.
P: God is good, a light that shines in the darkness of our fear, a sun that with the dawning gives courage and faith.
L: Let us worship God! Let us behold the One who comes to love, to heal and to save.
P: With prayers and songs, with open hearts and minds we praise God who is our light and our salvation.

Prayer of Confession (a meditation adapted from Psalm 27)

L: God of mercy help us to have courage in the face of great challenges.
P: Forgive us when we are afraid to do what is right. Forgive us when we give in to the easy way. Encourage us to talk openly, honestly, lovingly with one another.
L: Do not hide your face from us. Do not turn your servants away in anger, you who have been our help. Do not cast us off, do not forsake us, O God of our salvation!
P: Do not give us up to the will of our adversaries. Teach us your way, O God, and lead us on a level path.
L: Hear, O God, when we cry aloud, be gracious to us and answer us!
P: Help us to listen when our hearts tell us, "Come, seek God’s face!" And grant us the courage to respond, “Your face, God, do I seek.”

Assurance of Pardon (a meditation adapted from Psalm 27)

L: Wait for God; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for God!
P: I believe that I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living.
L: God is our light and our salvation; whom shall we fear? God is the stronghold of our life; of whom shall we be afraid?
P: I believe and accept God’s grace in Christ and will seek to live life in a new way – loving, forgiving, serving and rejoicing.

Collect (a meditation adapted from the Lectionary Texts for Lent 2C)

God, gracious and kind, always with us, forever loving, forgiving, encouraging, reminding us of your promises: thank you for your constancy and your patience.

How often have we come to you in our nightly wanderings of anxiety, the tossing and turning of guilt, the wrenching of doubt and asked for you to prove your faithfulness yet again. Like Abram we want your assurance. Like Paul we are aware that enemies of our own faithfulness lurk all around, tempting us to doubt you. Like the psalmist we need constant reminders that you are our light and our strength, that we need not fear – any one or anything. Like Jesus bemoaning the faithlessness of his fellow citizens in Israel and the leaders of his homeland, we pray for the vision of your providence to keep our faith steadfast.

Open our hearts and minds always to the One who comes in your name to save us: that we may acknowledge your ministry of justice and righteousness and receive your message of grace. In the name of Christ we pray. Amen.

Commission (adapted from Philippians 3:17-4:1 and Psalm 27)

L: Brothers and sisters, join in imitating those faithful ones who have gone before, and observe those who live according to the example set by the all the godly followers of Christ.
P: Through faith we know that our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
L: Therefore, my brothers and sisters, with St. Paul I say, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved, behold the beauty of God, sing and make melody to God here in this sanctuary and as you go out into the world. Praise and glorify God in all that you do, think and say. For this is what God desires for you.
P: Thanks be to God! Amen!