Welcome

We come together to “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (Psalm 18:3, NRSV). All are sincerely welcomed to this service of worship and praise.

Preparation for Worship

Lord, make us mindful of the joy your grace can be to us. Grant us the gift of your presence, we pray.

Prayer Ventures

Ask the Spirit to help shape our words and actions so that they build up others, reflect sincere love and concern, and convey the good news of Jesus Christ. Ask for God’s forgiveness and mercy when we hurt, disrespect and damage the reputation of our neighbors — intentionally or unintentionally.

Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

In Isaiah we hear that God’s house shall be a house of prayer for all people and that God will gather the outcasts of Israel. The Canaanite woman in today’s gospel is a Gentile, an outsider, who is unflinching in her request that Jesus heal her daughter. As Jesus commends her bold faith, how might our church extend its mission to those on the margins of society? In our gathering around word and meal we receive strength to be signs of comfort, healing, and justice for those in need.

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.