TO UNITE IN FAITH TO DO MORE GOOD TO JOIN A COMMUNITY TO MAKE CHANGE TO CELEBRATE DIVERSITY
To worship with us
October 8, 2023 • 9 & 11 AM
Staff Emails are typically first initial then last name @asburyfirst.org. (ex. scady@asbuyrfirst.org) Rev. Stephen Cady, PhD — Senior Minister, x125 Rev. Kathy Thiel — Minister for Congregational Care, x106 Rev. Patrick Dupont — Minister for Outreach, x136 Mike Mullin — Minister for Discipleship and Youth, x105 *Rev. Rachel Dupont — Minister for for Christian Formation and Director of the Discipleship Project, x113 Dr. Carl Johengen — Director of Music Ministry, x134 Duane Prill — Principal Organist, x100 Paula Dugan — Director of Hospitality and Children’s Ministry, x111 Holly Temming — Children's Music & Ministry; Revenue & Payroll Specialist, x114 David Strong — Church Admin.; Assistant Organist, x110 Deb Bullock-Smith — Office and Data Manager, x117 Sarah Brubaker — Director of Communications, x109 John Ormsbee — Director of Finance, x107 Lori Young — Director of Property Care, x122 Robin Manley, LMSW — Social Worker, x138 *Ly Tran — Communications Assistant, x108 *indicates part-time status
FIRST TIME HERE We are so glad you are joining us, whether in person or online. Please sign in on the red fellowship pad and pass it down your pew. Our hope is to get to know you better and help you find your place within our community. You can also drop us an email at info@asburyfirst.org. If you’re out there watching, check in through the website to let us know you’re worshiping with us. Take a picture and post it on social media using #asburyfirstathome. ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL Large print bulletins and hymnals are available from the ushers. A hearing loop is available for those who have hearing aids with T switches, and you may also request earphones from the ushers to aid you in hearing the service. The screens located toward the back of the sanctuary now display the service stream to aid in visibility. Please help us welcome of differently-abled worshipers and visitors. For example, please respect our visually-impaired members by not interacting with or distracting their working guide dogs. Need prayer? We invite you to share with us how we can be praying for you by emailing prayers@asburyfirst.org or by filling out one of our prayer cards found in the pews. All prayer requests are prayed over by our Ministers and Intercessory Prayer Team. Children We believe children are a sacred gift, and they are welcome in our worship. Children will be invited forward during worship for a Children’s Time. Following this, children ages 4 through 5th grade are invited to go with our children’s educators for Sunday School or return to their caretaker for the remainder of the service. RECONCILING STATEMENT We are a reconciling congregation and seek to be a fully inclusive church, believing that all people are God’s children. Our full statement can be read at asburyfirst.org/about-us/#reconciling-statement. GIVE TO ASBURY FIRST Your generous gifts supports our everyday ministries and operations, allowing us to live into our vision to Do More Good. Cash/Check—We welcome you to send a gift of cash/check in the mail or in the basket on your way out of the sanctuary following the service. Text to Give—You may give a gift with a debit/credit card by texting the dollar amount to 206-222-1050. Online—Online giving is available on our website at asburyfirst.org/give. Venmo—You may give a gift through Venmo by finding “@givingasburyfirst” or by scanning the QR code to the right. Watch and listen The live stream of the 11 am service can be viewed at asburyfirst.org/live-stream. Listen live on WRFZ 106.3 FM Rochester Free Radio, or call our toll-free number at 833-829-1050. Our video archive of past services is at asburyfirst.org/archive.
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
* please stand as you are able
11 am • October 8, 2023
Prelude Annette Farrington, Flute Jeanne Strong, Piano
Intermezzos , Op. 9, No. 6— Hermann Schroeder Maestoso; Andante sostenuto; Andantino Suite Modale — Ernest Bloch I. Moderato III. Allegro giocoso
Introit
When morning gilds the skies my heart awaking cries: May Jesus Christ be praised! Alike at work and prayer, to Jesus I repair: May Jesus Christ be praised! (Words: Edward Caswall; Tune: Laudes Domini, Joseph Barnby)
*Call to Worship Based on Psalm 19
All are invited to read the bold-faced type; the reader will read the unbolded type. Come into this sacred space to worship God whose teaching is perfect; whose directions are sure. Come into this holy place to worship God whose commandment is clear; whose judgments are true. Come with holy fear, to be given life, and made wise, to have your heart stirred and your eyes opened wide. Let the words of our mouths and the whispering of our hearts be according to your will, O God.
*Processional Hymn
#546 "The Church's One Foundation”, vv. 1, 2, 4, 5
*Welcome and Passing of the Peace
*Gathering Hymn
#77 "How Great Thou Art”, v. 1
The community gathers As the community gathers, may the music of the prelude draw your hearts and minds to God.
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To hear the word
Scripture Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20
Then God spoke all these words, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in the form of anything that is in heaven above or that is on the earth beneath or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not make wrongful use of the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not acquit anyone who misuses his name. Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you. You shall not murder. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, male or female slave, ox, donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”
*Gloria Hymnal #102, v. 3, alt.
All glory be to God, all praise and thanks be given; Whose Son and Spirit reign as one in highest Heaven; Our one eternal God, whom earth and heaven adore; For thus it was, is now, and shall be evermore.
Silent Confession
Words of Assurance
Beloved friends, God shows steadfast love and blesses to the thousandth generation those who walk in God’s ways. God forgives us our sins and restores us to new life. Let us rejoice in God’s mercy. Amen.
Prayer of Confession Based on Psalm 19
Your glory, O God, is declared in the holy silence of the heavens, and told in the silent succession of day and night. Nothing under the sun is hidden from its heat or light. So nothing that we do or say or whisper in our hearts is hidden from you, Lord God. Release us from darkness we hide deep within our lives. Let our lives delight in your teaching, receiving insight from your commandments and wisdom from your encouraging. Enliven our desire to enjoy a right relationship with those around us, and with you.
11 am
Children's Time
Children of all ages are invited to join us in this special moment.
Lord's Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
Scripture (Cont'd)
When all the people witnessed the thunder and lightning, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking, they were afraid and trembled and stood at a distance and said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we will listen, but do not let God speak to us, lest we die.” Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid, for God has come only to test you and to put the fear of him upon you so that you do not sin.” The Word of God for the People of God. Thanks be to God.
Anthem
“Silent Devotion and Response” — Ernest Bloch, from Sacred Service (sung in Hebrew) Yih’yu l'ratzon imrei fi, V’hegyon libi l’fanecha Adonai, tzuri, v’goali. Amen May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to you, Adonai, my Rock and my Redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)
*Hymn
#473 "Lead Me, Lord"
Sermon
No Other Gods (or Split Attention)
Call to Prayer
Hear our prayer, O Lord; hear our prayer, O Lord; Incline your ear to us and grant us your peace. (Music: George Whelpton)
Pastoral Prayer
*Prayer of Dedication
God of abundance, from whose hands flow all the blessings of our lives, may we be spared the sin of using your blessings simply for our own pleasure and purposes. Give us generous hearts, O God, that your blessings may flow from our hands to those in need. Amen.
*Doxology Hymnal #95
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
To Renew Commitment
Introduction to Discipleship, Membership, and Commitment
We are delighted you have joined us and ask that you sign and pass the ritual of friendship pad from the center aisle down the pew. We invite you to prayerfully consider making a gift to support the everyday ministries and operations of this church, allowing us to live into our vision to Do More Good. There are multiple ways to make a gift to Asbury First: Cash/Check—We welcome you to send a gift of cash/check in the mail or place it in the offering plate as it is passed to you. Text to Give—You may give a gift with a debit/credit card by texting the dollar amount to 206-222-1050. Online—Online giving is available on our website at asburyfirst.org/give. Venmo—You may give a gift through Venmo by finding “@givingasburyfirst” or by scanning the QR code to the right.
Offertory Annette Farrington, Flute Jeanne Strong, Piano
Suite Modale — Ernest Bloch II. L'istesso tempo
*Recessional Hymn
#529 “How Firm a Foundation”, vv. 1, 2, 3, 5
To Disperse in Mission
Worship Leaders
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady Liturgists: Rev. Kathy Thiel, Rev. Rachel Dupont Lay Reader: Sean Mahan Director of Children's Ministry: Paula Dugan Organist: David Strong Sanctuary Choir Section Leaders: Gwen Paker, Brenda Nitsch, Dan McInerney, Jordan Bachmann Choral Scholar: Holden Turner Director of Music Ministry: Dr. Carl Johengen Head Usher: Brian White Production Director/Video Operator: Larry Dugan Audio Operator: Rick Church Graphics Operator: Griffin Allen Technology Support: Deb Bullock-Smith, Ted Skomsky Technical Consultant: Justin Ocello
“Silent Devotion and Response” © 1934, 1962 Broude Brothers; "Suite Modale" © 1958, Broude Brothers; Hymns © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; OneLicense.net #A-721053. Some of the liturgical elements have been adapted from Jeff Schrowder (thebillabong.info, © 2000), and from MinistryMatters.com Illustration Credits: Designed by Sarah Brubaker and Ly Tran, with Freepik and Vecteezy.
Permissions:
winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.” I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived and stood on their feet, a vast multitude.
*Benediction
*Benediction Response
Be this, while life is mine, my canticle divine: May Jesus Christ be praised! Be this the eternal song through all the ages long: May Jesus Christ be praised! (Words: Edward Caswall; Tune: Laudes Domini, Joseph Barnby)
Postlude
"Poco Vivace" Op. 9, No. 6 — Hermann Schroeder
9 am • October 8, 2023
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady Pianist: David Strong
Chapel service
Prelude
*Call to Worship
All are invited to read the bold-faced type; the reader will read the unbolded type. Come into this sacred space to worship God whose teaching is perfect; whose directions are sure. Come into this holy place to worship God whose commandment is clear; whose judgements are true. Come with holy fear, to be given life, and made wise, to have your heart stirred and your eyes opened wide. Let the words of our mouths and the whispering of our hearts be according to your will, O God.
*Opening Hymn
#77 “How Great Thou Art”, vv. 1, 2
*Welcome & Passing of the Peace
#131 "We Gather Together", v. 1
Invitation, Announcements
Scripture
Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 (found on p. 4-5)
Prayer
*Closing Hymn
#529 “How Firm a Foundation”, vv. 1, 2, 5
Please do not pet or talk to a guide dog, even if it looks like it is at rest. The dog should never be distracted from its job of guiding a person. It is ok, however, to ask someone to meet their guide. Avoid making eye contact with a guide dog. Do not offer a guide dog food or other distracting treats. Please don’t touch or steer a guide dog’s harness. If you sense that assistance is needed, please ask whether you can offer your arm for guidance. Refrain from calling out directions to a person with a guide dog or intentionally obstructing their path. The person and dog have been trained to navigate the environment safely and independently.
Are you interested in taking the next step in your faith journey, finding your place in the life of Asbury First, or are just in need of a deeper connection?
Are you interested in taking the next step in your faith journey, finding your place in the life of Asbury First, or are just in need of a deeper connection? Scan the QR code, visit asburyfirst.org/ help-me-connect, or call the office at 585-271-1050 to connect.
Help Me Connect
Scan the QR code, visit asburyfirst.org/help-me-connect, or call the office at 585-271-1050 to connect.
Celebrations and concerns
Guide Dog Etiquette
ALTAR FLOWERS The flowers on the altars are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Gene Simmons by his daughter Tammy Clifford & family; and in loving memory of Kathy Welch by Norm and Jesse Welch; and in loving memory of Jane Jeszenka, beloved and dedicated member and past president of the Altar Guild — given by the Altar Guild. Have you noticed the lone sunflower on the altar? The sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine. In solidarity with Ukraine, we will have a single sunflower on the high altar until the war ends. Want to help? You can support UMCOR at asburyfirst.org/give. Please note "Ukraine", or mail a check to the church office at 1050 East Ave. If you would like to place flowers on the altar, please contact Jeanne Ristau at 585-223-4356, preferably two weeks ahead of requested date. Prayers and Concerns We offer our prayers and concerns for all those who are ill at home, hospitalized, or in hospice care. We offer our prayers and concerns to the family and friends of Anne Porter Mikels, who died on Friday, September 22. We offer our prayers and concerns to the family and friends of Samuel Bishop died on August 7, 2023. A memorial service for Samuel will be at Asbury First on Saturday, October 14 at 2 pm.
You may have noticed the presence of a guide dog in our spaces in recent weeks — we are very pleased to welcome persons with visual impairments who desire to join us. Here are some important and helpful guidelines for Guide Dog Etiquette which will help us all manage together. Thank you for all the ways you help make Asbury First a welcoming and supportive community! See the list of guidelines below:
Meetings & Rehearsals OCTOBER 8–14
Sunday 9 am Worship Service—1040 Gathering Center 9 am Spiritual Perspectives Class—1050 Teak Room 9:30 am Asbury Orchestra—1040 Wesley Hall 9:45 am Children's Enrichment—1040 Education Wing 9:45 am Adult Sunday School—1040 Fellowship Hall 9:45 am As the Spirit Moves Us—1040 LL03 (lower level) and Zoom (zoom.us/j/6174865464) 11 am Worship Service In-Person and Livestream 11:15 am Children's Sunday School (Ages 4–5th grade) —1040 Education Wing 12 pm Lunch—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 2 pm Godspell Youth Musical Rehearsal —1040 Fellowship Hall 2:30 pm Youth Group—Wickham Farms MONday 9 am Monday Morning Crew—1040 Tuesday 8:30 am Lectio Divina—Zoom (zoom.us/j/8347173468) 9:30 am Tuesday Morning Women's Fellowship —Zoom (zoom.us/j/8347173468) 12:30 pm Asbury Art Class—1040 Room 205 (Bell Room) 2 pm Disciple III Bible Studies —Zoom (zoom.us/j/6174865464) 3 pm Gentle Yoga—1040 Gathering Center, $10 pay at the door Wednesday 7 am Breakfast—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 7 am Men’s Fellowship Group —Zoom (zoom.us/j/6174865464) 10 am Wednesday Morning Study Group —1040 Room 203 and Zoom (zoom.us/j/8347173468) 5 pm Hallelujah Kids Choir—1040 Room 201 5:30 pm Community Dinner—1040 Gathering Center 6 pm Your Children are Greatly in Danger Class —1040 Sanctuary 6 pm Wesley Singers & Ringers—1040 Room 201 6 pm Godspell Youth Musical Rehearsal —1040 Fellowship Hall 6:30 pm Asbury Ringers—1040 Room 205 (Bell Room) 7:30 pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal—1040 Wesley Hall Thursday 7 am Breakfast—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 4 pm Gentle Yoga—1040 Gathering Center, $10 pay at the door 6 pm UR Well Clinic—1010 COC Evarts UR Well Clinic FRIDAY 7 am Breakfast—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 9:30 am Disciple III Bible Studies —Zoom (zoom.us/j/8347173468) SaturDAY 2 pm Samuel Bishop Memorial—1040 Sanctuary 7 pm Drive-In Movie—1040 Parking Lot
For a full list of events with links, visit our online calendar at asburyfirst.org/events or call the church office at 585-271-1050
Saturday, October 21, Champions Mini Golf in Macedon Tee times starting at 9 am, $11 per adult, $9 per under-15
DRIVE IN
SATURDAY, October 14, 7 pm, Asbury First parking lot
FEATURING:
Our youth will be hosting our first-ever Asbury First Mini-Golf Outing, with all proceeds to support our youth missions.
The “parking lot” is live with the sound of music. Come see the Asbury Community Theater production of the Sound of Music. This event is free and will have fresh popcorn for all. If you got a chance to see if live last spring great! Come and watch it again. If you didn’t get to see in, here is your chance. Come and sing along to some of the most iconic tunes.
The costs to play are $11 for adults, and $9 for kids 15 and under. Tee times are available for purchase in the Welcome Hall after the service on Sunday, or by contacting the church office during the week. Questions? Contact Mike Mullin at 585-271-1050 x105 mmullin@asburyfirst.org.
The Governing Board will be hosting another open town hall to share updates on various aspects of our life together and to answer your questions. If you have specific questions, please call the church office at 585-271-1050 or email us at governance@asburyfirst.org. For more information about the Governing Board or the recent committee activity, visit asburyfirst.org/governance.
TOWN HALL
The rainbow has long been a sign of God’s promise of love and our need for hope. In that spirit, you are invited to wear rainbow clothing, or the Asbury First rainbow T-shirts, to worship on Sunday October 15 as we celebrate and show support for members of the LGBTQ community in honor of national Coming Out Day. We will be joined by a guest preacher, the Rev. Jess Winderweedle, who will help us celebrate God’s good gift of love in all of its prismatic beauty! Learn more about Jess at asburyfirst.org/news.
Give Online at www.asburyfirst.org/GIVE, text to give at 206-222-1050, OR MAIL IN YOUR CHECKS TO 1050 EAST AVENUE, ROCHESTER, NY 14607
Sunday, October 22, 12 pm, Sanctuary and Live Stream
Sunday, October 15
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Online readers, click the "Return to Page" to quickly get back to the worship portion of the bulletin.
#77 "How Great Thou Art", v. 1
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#529 "How Firm a Foundation", vv. 1, 2, 3, 5