Robert Stauber welcomed the congregation and guests for worship and announcements for the week were made. Zoe Thornton and Emily Thornton lit the altar candles as Patti Carroll played the prelude to worship. The congregation shared in a time of fellowship.
The congregation sang the hymns "He Is Lord" and "Tell Me The Stories of Jesus," accompanied by Patti on the piano and the orchestra.
Joys were shared by many for the beautiful flowers, for the outstanding performance by the McDonald County High School Band and for having Tom and Karen Ward in the congregation. The musical and academic achievements of Brittanie Serr, Hannah Stanley and Emily Thornton were recognized. Prayer was requested for David Cash, Bertha Nichols and the Toft families. Mary Lou Toft led the congregation in prayer.
Robert read the scripture lesson, Matthew 27: 32-50.
The adult choir, directed by Linda Hybl, sang a medley of "Holy, Holy, Holy" for the music special.
Mary Lou spoke with the children about Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem in the week prior to His crucifixion. He was cheered by the people along the route waving palm leaves. Many people expected Jesus to deliver them from the rule of the Roman government.
Mary Lou's message to the congregation was about the last teachings of Jesus and the parables found in Matthew. It was the weight of our sin that caused the death of Jesus and the passion and suffering that Jesus endured. Without the passion of Jesus, we would not have victory over sin and death. Jesus was mocked for saying the temple would be destroyed and be rebuilt in three days, but people did not understand that He was foretelling His own resurrection from the sealed tomb.
The congregation sang "Where You There" followed by Mary Lou's benediction to close the worship service.
After the worship service, the congregation shared in a wonderful meal and time of fellowship.
We invite you to worship services at 11 a.m. Sundays at St. John and Mill Streets in Noel. Phone 417-475-3814. Visit our Facebook page, Noel MO United Methodist Church.
Religion on 04/17/2014