These next weeks and months have the grand title of Ordinary Time. This simply means that we are not on one of the two great liturgical journeys (Advent – Christmas – Epiphany and Lent – Holy Week – Easter). It allows for coming off the lectionary if that is local tradition. Instead might come surprises like outdoor services or a preaching series on a particular topic or Bible Book which during the liturgical journeys, time does not allow.
Theme: God sufficient
Gathering and Opening Prayers
A call to worship and a gathering prayer
Lord God, King of the universe,
we thank you for sending your Son, our Saviour,
as a helpless and vulnerable baby,
dependent on the love and care of flawed human beings.
As we come to worship,
may we make ourselves vulnerable –
open to receive more of your power, mercy and love –
so that we can share that with others,
when we are sent to serve you.
Amen.
The Collect for Trinity5
Almighty God
send down upon your Church the riches of your Spirit
and kindle in all who minister the gospel
your countless gifts of grace;
though Jesus Christ our Lord.
Hymn
Gathering around the Word
Bible Reading: Mark 6:1-13
Jesus teaches in his home town but is shunned by those present there. After this he continues healing and teaching. He then sends out his disciples to continue his work, travelling in pairs and taking nothing extra with them. They teach about repentance and cure the sick.
We are not told how the disciples fared under these conditions, but we are told that their mission was a success. The disciples’ willingness to be vulnerable and to trust in God was a key element of this, and one that contrasts with a world view in which vulnerability and a lack of material resources are seen as weaknesses.
Bible Discussion:
- When have you had to be prepared to be vulnerable?
- How can we make ourselves more able to trust in God’s sufficiency?
Bible Reflections:
An Affirmation of Faith:
We believe in God the Father,
from whom every family
in heaven and on earth is named.
We believe in God the Son,
who lives in our hearts through faith,
and fills us with his love.
We believe in God the Holy Spirit,
who strengthens us
with power from on high.
We believe in one God;
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
cf Ephesians 3
Gathering in Prayer
Prayers of Intercession
My power is made perfect in weakness.
Lord God, there are so many situations in our troubled world
that need your hand upon them.
Some we are aware of, many we are not. But you know.
My grace is sufficient for you.
We pray today for countries at war,
that their leaders may realise the futility of human power
and the all-sufficient power of God, who says:
My grace is sufficient for you.
We pray for areas affected by natural disasters,
that your order may be restored,
and your compassion rule.
My grace is sufficient for you.
We pray for people who are living and coping with any kind of disability,
who struggle with the tasks of everyday living,
that they will receive the help and encouragement they need.
My grace is sufficient for you.
We pray for people with illnesses, seen and unseen.
For those who suffer in ways we cannot begin to understand.
For people who do not know your love and power in their lives.
My grace is sufficient for you.
The Our Father
We join with others of the St Catherine’s family across the globe
in our preferred form or language.
Our Father……
Amen.
The Sending Out
A sending out prayer
Lord, you sent your disciples into the world
to share your word with those in need –
may we approach this coming week with a similar desire.
You sent them carrying little but trusting much –
may we live this week with a similar attitude.
May our lives be less about us and our needs,
and more about you,
and your love and care for all people
in all places and circumstances.
May we love as you love.
We ask in your name.
Amen.
Hymn
A Blessing
Organ Voluntary