The congregation and guests were welcomed by liturgist Robert Stauber. Announcements for the week were made, including the upcoming blood drive, which will be on Thursday afternoon, July 30, in the Fellowship Hall. Vicki Barth celebrated a birthday and the congregation shared in a time of fellowship. Ashton Cory and Zoe Thornton lit the altar candles as Patti Carroll played the prelude to worship.
The congregation sang "Seek Ye First" and "My Faith Looks Up To Thee," accompanied by Patti on the clavinova and the orchestra.
Sherrie Serr shared a joy for having all of her family together and Janet Britton shared a joy for daughter Samantha Scott's 21st birthday. Appreciation was expressed for the orchestra. Thanks were given for answered prayer, and prayer was requested for Beth Carr and an unspoken request. Pastor Mary Lou Toft led the congregation in prayer.
Robert read the scripture lesson, Isaiah 6: 1-8.
The orchestra played "Shine Jesus Shine" for the music special.
Mary Lou's message to the children was about the way God was being praised in the scripture lesson from Isaiah. It is important to constantly praise God, not just on Sundays.
Continuing on the theme of praise from the Isaiah scripture, Mary Lou's message to the congregation was how Isaiah became eager to serve as God's messenger after seeing God. It is important for us to make time to be alone and reflect on our relationship with God. It is at these times that we become aware of our personal sin; times when we failed to love our neighbor, ourselves or God as we should. Recognizing what God and His son Jesus have done for us, we become willing and eager to serve as His messenger. We can say to God as Isaiah did, "Here I am, send me."
The congregation sang the hymn "Here I Am Lord," 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 07/24/2014