Liturgy At Holy Trinity Lutheran Church January 18, 2015 + 10:30 a.m. Second Sunday after Epiphany
Prelude Flute Sonata in G Major (HWV 363b) Adagio Allegro George F. Händel (1685-1759) Gathering Hymn Greeting Help Us Create SACRED SPACE by powering down Please do not use cell phones and other electronic devices. ::: Gathering ::: The ringing of the meditation bowl calls us to silence, centering and reflection as we prepare for worship. Following the introduction to the hymn, please stand and face the font at the rear of the nave. Turn to face the cross as it enters; you may bow as the cross passes, honoring the mystery of our salvation. Incense, used in Christian and Jewish worship since ancient times, is part of our multi-sensory liturgy. The assembly, gospel book, and table all signs of Christ's presence among us are honored with incense, representing the rising of our prayers and praise. #310 Songs of Thankfulness and Praise The presiding minister bows toward the assembly which is the body of Christ and the primary symbol of God s presence in the liturgy. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. And also with you. Canticle of Praise Glory to God [2]
Music: Thomas Pavlechko (b. 1962). 2006 Augsburg Fortress Let us pray Amen. ~ be seated ~ The narrative of the call of Samuel is chosen as a parallel to the call of Philip and Nathanael, for the God whom Christians hear calling them in baptism is the God whom ancient Samuel followed. Contrasting the God of the Old Testament with the God of the New Testament cannot be biblically sustained. Prayer of the Day First Reading 1 Samuel 3:1-10 Word of God, word of life. Thanks be to God. [3]
Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 Setting: Marty Haugen The refrain is sung by the choir and repeated by the assembly. The choir sings the verses. Refrain: Lord, you have searched me out; O Lord, you have known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You trace my journeys and my resting places and are acquainted with all my ways. Refrain Indeed, there is not a word on my lips, but you, O Lord, know it altogether. You encompass me behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain to it. Refrain For you yourself created my inmost parts; you knit me together in my mother s womb. I will thank you because I am marvelously made; your works are wonderful, and I know it well. Refrain My body was not hidden from you, while I was being made in secret and woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes beheld my limbs, yet unfinished in the womb; all of them were written in your book; my days were fashioned before they came to be. Refrain How deep I find your thoughts, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I were to count them, they would be more in number than the sand; to count them all, my life span would need to be like yours. Refrain [4]
The lectionary appoints semicontinuous readings from 1 Corinthians during Epiphany, chosen because this seminal letter of Paul describes the communal life expected among believers and calls them to lives of mutual love. Today's selection focuses on one specific ethnical issue sexuality as paramount now as in firstcentury Corinth. As is usual in dealing with ethics, Paul offers, not new Christian regulations, but the theology of our baptism into the body of Christ. Second Reading 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 Word of God, word of life. Thanks be to God. Stand to welcome the gospel and turn to face the book as the gospel is read in the midst of the assembly. Gospel Acclamation Setting: John Ferguson Sung by the choir, repeated by the assembly We have found the Messiah: Jesus Christ, who brings us grace and truth. (John 1:41, 17) Alleluia, alleluia. In various parts of John's gospel, we read a more developed Christology than in the synoptic gospels. For John, there needs to be no miraculous birth to indicate Jesus' divine identity, because he is the God-sent teacher, the one come from God to replace human kings, the ultimate fulfillment of religious hopes, and the divine judge glorified by angels at the end of time. Today's reading exemplifies why Christians need to know the Old Testament, for all the Christological titles adopt and alter imagery from the Hebrew Scriptures. The holy gospel according to John. Glory to you, O Lord. The gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, O Christ. (sung as above) Alleluia, alleluia. ~ be seated ~ Following the sermon there is a time of silence for reflection and quiet meditation. Our liturgy is not only made up of words, gestures and music, but also moments of silence. Gospel John 1:43-51 As the gospel is announced, you may trace a small cross on your forehead, lips and breast, a prayer that the Word may dwell in our minds, on our lips and in our hearts. Sermon Silence [5]
~ please stand ~ Hymn of the Day Prayers of Intercession Peace The assembly is invited to share God s peace with one another saying, Peace be with you, or similar words. Offering Offertory Anthem Wondrous Love Paul Christiansen (1914-1997) Great Thanksgiving #737 He Comes to Us as One Unknown stanza 3 women; stanza 4 men After each petition: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. The peace of Christ be with you always. And also with you. ~ be seated ~ ::: Meal ::: If this is your first time, or if you have been attending awhile and would like to get to know us better, please fill out the welcome slip in the pew and place it in the offering plate. Today s loose offering is designated for Cuban Churches. Checks and envelope offerings support Holy Trinity s overall ministry unless designated otherwise. What wondrous love is this, O my soul, that caused the Lord of life to bear the heavy cross? What wondrous love is this, O my soul! What wondrous love is this, O my soul, that Christ should lay aside his crown for my soul! What wondrous love is this, O my soul! (Text: Traditional Southern Folk hymn, adapted) ~ please stand ~ [6]
The thanksgiving includes the following responses: The Lord s Prayer As a sign of openness to the divine presence, you may join the presider in praying the Our Father with the ancient gesture of extended hands. [7]
Communion All are welcome at Christ's table, including children. Bread is received in the hands. Wine is received either by drinking from the (silver) common cup, or by saving the bread and dipping it in the second (glass) cup. Gluten-free wafers are available from the presiding minister. Those not communing may come forward for a blessing, keeping your hands extended over your chest. For those unable to consume either wine or bread, communion is received fully in either element alone. Lamb of God Communion Hymn Silence #574 Here I Am, Lord ~ please stand ~ Prayer [8]
::: Sending ::: Having heard the word and shared the eucharist, we are sent to live our baptism through words and deeds, making known the love of Christ, and working for justice and peace in our families, communities, and world. #313 O Lord, Now Let Your Servant Go in peace. Let your light shine. Thanks be to God! Blessing Sending Hymn Sending Postlude La Rejouissance (from Fireworks Music) Mark Sedio (b. 1954) SIMEON S SONG: During this Epiphany season we will be singing a paraphrase of the Song of Simeon as the sending hymn. This canticle was a regular part of many historic Lutheran liturgies, and its place at the end of the service reflects gratitude for seeing the Lord s salvation in the eucharist, and departing in peace. Called the Nunc Dimittis in Latin, this biblical canticle from Luke 2 is also sung in Compline (Prayer at the Close of the Day) and sometimes at funerals, at it calls to mind Simeon who is able to die in peace having seen Jesus, the holy child and promised one. ::: Serving in this Liturgy ::: Presiding Minister Craig M. Mueller Preaching Minister Marcus Lohrmann Minister Of Music David R. Brackley Recorder A.J. Diller Assisting Minister Ann Sanders Sacristan Joel Cruz Incense Marcus Lohrmann Crucifer Patty Erickson Torchbearers Megan & Cassie Moran Communion Assistants Michael Schnell, Ginger Tanton Intercessor Ryan LaHurd Readers Aana Vigen, Bobby Basham Bread Baker Greg Zinkl Altar Guild Mary Buschmann Ken Duckmann Meditation Bell Katie Mineck Coffee Hospitality Ed Beach Welcome Hospitality Leif & Mary Melvin, Eric Breese & Mark Stolt, Michael Moriarty [9]
[10] Annual Congregation Meeting Sunday, January 25 + 11:45 a.m. The meeting will be accompanied by a potluck, so bring a dish to share! Annual reports will be made available both digitally and in print in the week before the meeting. ::: Parish Notes ::: Book Group Meeting Eat, Drink. Read. The first book group meeting of the new year will be on Monday, January 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the home of Becky Sims (1702 W Barry, 708-790-8859). We'll be discussing Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple. If you like to read ahead, we'll be discussing The House Girl by Tara Conklin in February. Make a new year's resolution to join us! Holy Trinity Introduction Thursday, January 22 + 7:00 8:30 p.m. Want to get connected or put down some roots in the city? Grow in faith, spirituality, or service? Holy Trinity offers INTRODUCTIONS several times a year. Come and learn about Holy Trinity and its ministry, and ways you can get connected. Whether you plan to be in the area a short or a long time, whether you are a lifelong Lutheran or of another or no religious background, or even ambivalent about church, you are welcome here! No pressure at the introduction; you can get as involved as you want. Some may affiliate as members or associate members; others may attend as they are able. Please use the Magnolia St. entrance. 383 parking permits provided. Subscribe to or Support The Lutheran For a number of years Holy Trinity has provided member subscriptions to The Lutheran magazine. One of our members, Julie Sevig, is an associate editor. Each month, this print and online publication nurtures awareness of God's presence in our lives, connects ELCA members with each other and the global Christian community, and provides an open forum for lively discussion. If you already are receiving The Lutheran, we invite you to make a special gift. $10 supports one subscription; $100 would support ten. If you do not read the magazine you receive and would like to discontinue and save the paper and mailing costs, let Josh in the church office know this. If you are a newer member or are currently not receiving the magazine and would like to, contact Josh in the church office and he will add you to the subscription list.
Antiracism Team Meeting February 7 + 6:00 p.m. + Loop Location Antiracism Team meetings are open to all interested in contributing to the conversation of breaking oppressive racial systems within our church, our communities, and within ourselves. Meetings are held both at the HT Loop and Lakeview locations on alternating months. For more information about Holy Trinity's Antiracism Team, check out our page: (holytrinitychicago.org/ministries/antiracism). Our next meeting will be Saturday, February 7 @ HTLoop following the 5:00 p.m. service. 2015 Flower Sponsors Needed Check the clipboard at the back of the church and sign up to sponsor weekly flowers for 2015. Worship Acknowledgements Text and music for the liturgy is reprinted from Sundays and Seasons.com. Copyright 2007 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License # 26481. Unless otherwise noted, all other music and text reprinted under permission of OneLicense.net #A-707777. [11]
[12] ::: Cuba Pilgrimage ::: With Cuba so much in the news last month, it is very exciting that Pastor Craig Mueller and Ernest Vasseur are leading a pilgrimage there January 28 February 2. Of the 24 travelers going, eight are from Holy Trinity: Carrie Egan, Ruth Allen, Carol and Rob Schickel, Carol and Ryan LaHurd, Ernest, and Craig. Another eight are from the Chicagoland area, and the final eight are from Miami, Madison, Kansas City, and Minneapolis. Since U.S. tourists are still not permitted to travel there, the group is going under a religious visa approved by both governments. In addition to staying at a famous beach resort, and sightseeing in Havana, the group will visit an ecumenical seminary in Matanzas, visit three small, rural Episcopal churches, and worship at the Episcopal cathedral on Sunday morning. A highlight of the trip will be meeting with Lutheran bishop, the Rev. Ramón M. Benito Ebanks, from New Gerona on an island south of the mainland. Unfortunately, due to the challenges in traveling there, it was not possible for us to actually visit the congregation on our short trip, so he will meet us in Havana. Ernest was born in Cuba and his family immigrated to the United States in 1960. When asked his reaction to the recent U.S. policy toward Cuba, Ernest expressed surprise and delight, while also noting caution, as it is still too soon to know whether Cubans will gain individual freedoms or economic security in the next several years. Cuba s dilapidated buildings and poverty struck Craig and Ernest when they visited in 2012. Though Cuba is known for its excellent healthcare and education provided to all citizens, even lawyers, doctors and other trained professionals live on just $20 per month. The group looks forward to dialogue with the Cuban people and to learn about their towns, churches, jobs, families and everyday lives. Though many Cubans are not religious, there has been a renewal of faith and spirituality in recent years, and participation in church is a source of hope and courage. We hope to share pictures and stories of the trip on our return. We will make financial gifts to the each of the churches we visit. If you would like to donate to this special fund, please designate your donation to Cuban Churches in today's offering or online. One of the churches lost its building due to a hurricane in recent years, but is hoping to rebuild. The congregation has been worshipping in their small sacristy, the only room that remains. We know all the congregations will be grateful for the prayers, spiritual support, and generosity of the delegation and the Holy Trinity community. Today s loose offering will go to support Cuban Lutheran churches.
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::: What We Value ::: Our worship is ancient and new We celebrate a liturgy based on ancient patterns and rituals that go back to the early centuries of Christianity. We gather for worship to hear the scriptures and wrestle with their meaning for our lives today. We share the sacred meal of bread and wine and depart to serve a world in need. Though ancient, worship is always fresh and new as the gospel of Christ comes alive for our contemporary context. Time unplugged from electronic devices allows reflection and centering. Open to the Mystery we connect, strengthen and serve with joy. Things we re for Radical inclusivity regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, socio-economic status, sexual orientation or religious/spiritual background. Embodied gathering in real time and sacred space. Multisensory liturgy that helps us delight in God s beauty. Intentional engagement with contemporary social, theological and spiritual issues. User-friendly liturgies. Preaching that is honest about the struggles of life and the grace of God. Robust congregational singing. Reverence and joy in worship that spills over into everyday life. Cultivating empowering relationships, not only at church but everywhere. Openness to questions and faith struggles. Treasuring mystery above certainty. Things we re against Power and privilege that lead to prejudice and oppression. Racism, sexism, heterosexism and ableism. A religion that claims to have all the answers. Senseless violence. Negative and hateful partisanship. Superficial responses to life s painful and difficult realities. Boring sermons. Church services that don t connect with everyday life. Equating Christianity with the Religious Right. Indifference to injustice and suffering. Misuse of the earth and its resources. [14]
::: Newcomer or First Time? Welcome! ::: + Whoever you are, wherever you're from, whatever the color of your skin, whomever you love or marry, or whatever your feelings about religion or spirituality, you are welcome here. + Please fill out a yellow slip in the pew rack and place it in the offering plate. + More information on Holy Trinity, Lutheranism, worship practices, marriage and baptisms at the welcome table. Upcoming baptism dates: April 12, May 31, July 19, September 20 + To families with small children: We are glad you are here! If your child needs a break from the service, feel free to walk to the narthex/back of the church. Nursery: open 8:15-11:30 a.m. Use the garden entrance on Addison; nursery is inside the door. Special children's bulletins are on a table at the back of the church. + Assisted hearing devices are available for those hard of hearing. Speak to an usher for details. + Offerings: We rely on the generosity of members and friends to support the programs, staff, building, and ministries of Holy Trinity and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A large number of the congregation gives their offerings through Electronic Funds Transfer. You can also donate online at giving.htchicago.org, or just scan the QR code to the right with your smartphone. We still pass the offering plate as well! We appreciate your contributions of time, talent, and financial support! MEET KATIE Meet Katie Mineck, our Community Life Coordinator, at the back of the church following worship. She would be happy to answer questions or make an introduction. Contact her at clc@htchicago.org or Pr. Craig Mueller at cmueller@htchicago.org. NEW TO HOLY TRINITY?: Intro to Holy Trinity Event Thursday, January 22 7:00 p.m. Thursday, March 5 7:00 p.m. DO YOU CONSIDER HOLY TRINITY YOUR CHURCH HOME? Register by filling out the yellow slip in the pew rack and place it in the offering plate or register online at holytrinitychicago.org/register. You will receive our e-newsletter. [15]
PURPOSE STATEMENT Open to the Mystery Connect, Strengthen, and Serve with Joy! GUIDING PRINCIPLES Act with courage Be radically inclusive Cultivate empowering relationships Delight in God s beauty Engage with intention Holy Trinity: Lakeview 1218 W. Addison Street office@htchicago.org Holy Trinity: Loop 637 S. Dearborn Street info@htloop.org Pastor Craig M. Mueller cmueller@htchicago.org Associate Pastor Michelle L. Sevig msevig@htchicago.org Parish Administrator Joshua R. Judd-Herzfeldt office@htchicago.org phone: 773.248.1233 web: holytrinitychicago.org ::: Staff ::: Minister of Music David R. Brackley dbrackley@htchicago.org Community Life Coordinator Katie Mineck clc@htchicago.org Accountant Paul Strome pstrome@htchicago.org Music Assistant Sean Diller music@htchicago.org Seminarians Megan Clausen Paul Eldred Marcus Lohrmann [16] A congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America