You Cannot Get Halfway Wet

Liturgist Robert Stauber welcomed the congregation for worship. Joan Stauber celebrated a birthday and the congregation shared in a time of fellowship. The fifth Sunday service this month will be in Pineville, with plans for hot dogs, chips and music. Lily Allman and Megan Elwood lit the altar candles as Patti Carroll played the prelude to worship.

The congregation sang "Sweet, Sweet, Spirit" and "Love Divine," accompanied by Patti on the clavinova and the orchestra.

Joys were shared by Nicki Angeles for Leo's new shop and Robin Davis shared that her friend was recovering and doing better. Ray Adair asked for prayer for family members traveling to Sweden. Prayer was requested for Danny Britton, Caleb Thornton and for Ron Saunders' brother, Ed. Pastor Mary Lou Toft led the congregation in prayer.

Robert read the scripture lesson, from John 15: 9-17.

Mary Lou's children's message was about sharing with others, even if all we have to give someone is a smile. A smile is always appreciated. We are to bless others as we have been blessed by God.

Mary Lou's message to the congregation was about the scripture lesson, where Jesus tells us to love others just as our Father God loves us. We are to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. This can be difficult. We cannot do this halfway. When we get into the water of the river, we cannot get halfway wet. Jesus said to love. We have to stand in the river and love completely.

The congregation sang "Blest Be The Tie That Binds," followed by Mary Lou's benediction to close the worship service.

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 08/21/2014