The congregation and guests were welcomed for worship by liturgist Robert Stauber and announcements for the week were made. Larry and Linda Hybl celebrated a wedding anniversary and the congregation shared in a time of fellowship. Patti Carroll played the prelude for worship as Zoe Thornton and Megan Elwood for worship.
The congregation sang "He is Lord" and "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," accompanied by Patti on the clavinova and the orchestra.
Pastor Mary Lou Toft welcomed Mary Jane Fischer to membership to the church. Graduates were recognized, including Josh Serr, Emma Vasquez, Caleb Thornton and Brittanie Serr. Joys were shared by Jeff Elwood for the Crowder College graduation and by Lou Fischer for daughter Mary Jane's special day. Kevin and Susan Rundle had granddaughter Teagan and family visiting and Tom Ward expressed joy family time attending his grandchildren's graduations. Carolyn Queer shared joy for time spent with son Jason. Prayer was requested for Kyle and April Denney and Mary Lou asked for prayer for her mother. Mary Lou led the congregation in prayer.
Robert read the scripture lesson from Luke 15:11-32.
The music special was by the adult choir, directed by Linda Hybl, singing "Holy, Holy, Holy," with a beautiful solo part by Larry Hybl.
In her message to the children, Mary Lou asked them about how they know when they've done something wrong. Children have parents and teachers to correct them when not behaving properly. We sometimes hear a tiny voice telling us that we are not doing right. The Lord tries to help us, and we can pray to Jesus to help us do the right thing.
Mary Lou's message to the congregation was how important it is to remember that God loves us even when we sin. Our sin separates us from God and becomes a barrier for us. We sin because we are focused on our own wants and not listening to what God is telling us. When we pray and ask forgiveness, God cleanses us and makes us new.
The congregation sang "Just As I Am," followed by Mary Lou's benediction to close the worship service.
You are welcome at worship services, Sunday's at Pineville UMC, 9:30 a.m.; Noel UMC 11 a.m.; and at Southwest City UMC at 1:30 p.m. Pastor Mary Lou Toft can be reached at 816-729-6767 and email [email protected] or visit Noel MO United Methodist Church on Facebook.
Religion on 05/21/2015