The congregation and guests were welcomed for worship by liturgist Steve Powell and announcements for the week were made. Birthdays were celebrated for Sharon Williams and A.B. Abercrombie, and A.B. and Rachel also celebrated their wedding anniversary. The congregation shared in a time of fellowship, followed by Dakota Stead and Zoe Thornton lighting the altar candles as Patti Carroll played the prelude to worship.
The congregation sang "There's Something About That Name" and "Joyful, Joyful," accompanied by Patti on the clavinova and the orchestra.
Joys were shared by Marilyn Moritz for Kristy's successful surgery and prayer was requested for Mike Viles, Barbara Fine, Danny Britton and Bethany. Prayer was requested for the Harry and Lin Stuart family. They have a son in the Marines that will soon be deployed to the Middle East. Pastor Mary Lou Toft led the congregation in prayer.
Steve read the scripture lesson, from Psalms 84:1-5, 10-12.
The music special was a beautiful solo of "Who Am I," by Angie Thornton.
Mary Lou's children's message began with a question, "Why are you here today?"
We come to church to praise and worship God and we are thankful for our church.
Mary Lou's message to the congregation continued on the theme of "Why are we here today?" She spoke of the enthusiasm of the Psalmist as he described his praise and worship of God. We may think of the church as a building, but it is really us as a congregation. We are commanded by God to make disciples and that job is not complete as long as we are alive on this earth. When God lives in us through His Holy Spirit, we are the church.
Mary Lou led the congregation in the sacrament of communion, followed by the hymn "Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus," and 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 09/11/2014