Worship Prayers April 30

CENTERING PRAYER

 

Good Shepherd, you call us by name, and we know your voice. Open the gate for us, that we may come and go freely, have life, and have it abundantly. Amen.

 

 

CALL TO WORSHIP (Psalm 23)

 

The Lord is our shepherd, we shall not want.

He makes us lie down in green pastures;

he leads us beside still waters;

he restores our souls.

He leads us in right paths for his name’s sake.

God delivers us through dark valleys

and saves us from our enemies.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow us

all the days of our lives,

and we shall dwell in the house of the Lord

our whole lives long.

 

 

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

 

Holy One, we confess to you and to one another that we do not follow Christ’s example. Instead of turning the other cheek, we strike back at our enemies. Instead of offering up ourselves to those in need, we hoard your blessings. Instead of walking the extra mile to help others, we sit down in our complacency. We continually go astray. Lead us back into your fold and guard our souls. (Silent Confession)

 

 

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH – The Apostles’ Creed.

 

 

OFFERING

 

Church, our God prepares a table before us and our cup overflows. Let us give generously from our common wealth, as our way of praising God and helping those in need. Let us pray…

 

Holy and generous God, you anoint us, and we are yours. Bless these tithes, gifts, and offerings that they may become green pastures and still waters for any and all who need your comfort and restoration. Amen.