Welcome

The psalmist invites us: “Sing praises to the Lord, O you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name” (Psalm 30:4, NRSV). Welcome to worship.

Preparation for Worship

God, you gave free will to all people. As we celebrate independence, help us use our freedom to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Prayer Ventures

God sends us into the world equipped to share the gospel, care for neighbors in need, inspire hope and strive for justice and healing. Give thanks for the strength and encouragement we receive from our church, our faith communities and our siblings in Christ.

Stewardship of your whole life

Galatians 6:10–So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for the family of faith.
Paul reminds us that we are all so integrally connected that when one benefits so do others. It’s a truth that often runs counter to what our culture proclaims. In fact, the prosperity and civic freedoms we enjoy today come to us by the efforts and sacrifices of others.

Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

God is the source of our nourishment. Jesus’ invitation to “take and eat . . . take and drink” is a repeated one. In holy communion, in the word read and proclaimed, in the assembly of the people of God, the dominion of God has come near. Rejoice! Your name is written in heaven.

A Quote From Fr. Richard Rohr

You are created in the image of God from the very beginning. This is the basis for God’s justice: Since everyone is made in the image of God, then we need to recognize, honor, and respect the image of God in everyone.
No exceptions.