This would normally be our something special first of the month cafe style service; so you may want to get yourself a cup of tea or coffee before starting this service. Our theme continues our series on great stories form the bible. The service is designed to be used in conjunction with the order of service email earlier but also available to download here.
Watch the whole service on YouTube by following this link.
CALL TO WORSHIP
Since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast to the faith we profess (Hebrews 4:14).
OPENING SONG
OPENING PRAYER
We praise you, risen and ascended Lord, for now there is in heaven one who understands us and prays for us. Our words echo heaven as we cry out in praise:
Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever!
CONFESSION ACTION
Pause the service, go and wash your hands. As you wash them, think about how you feel about the coronavirus, think about how you feel about others, and think about how you feel about yourself. Once you have washed your hands, then return to this time of worship.
Lord, wash us clean. Forgive us for the wrongs we have done to you, to each other and to ourselves. Forgive us and set us free in your holy name. Amen.
REFLECTION: What is the Ascension all about? PART 1
SONG
REFLECTION: What is the Ascension all about? PART 2
PRAYER
Lord, we thank you that you have ascended to heaven, and you will return again to restore all things in heaven and on earth. Help us to know we belong to you and are part of that eternal future, for your glory’s sake. Amen.
ACTION PRAYERS FOR OTHERS
Take a tissue and hold it in your hand. Tissues are fragile, they tear easily. As we pray think about someone you know or a group you know who may feel fragile or vulnerable at this time. If it helps, write the name of the person or group on the tissue, or draw a picture instead.
Put the tissue in your pocket or next to your bed to remember to pray for them.
Now take a plaster, any size. Do you know someone who is unwell at the moment, maybe someone in your family or possibly a friend. If you want to, write their name on the plaster as a hope and a prayer that they will get better soon. Now pray for that unwell person.
Stick the plaster somewhere you can see it every day. It will remind you to pray for them.
Finally, take some hand sanitiser and squirt a little into your hands and rub it in until it’s all gone. As you rub your hands, think about and pray for all those doctors, nurses and other health professional who are working hard to help those who are ill get better. Pray for their safety and protection. Pray for those working hard to develop a vaccine too.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
CLOSING SONG
CLOSING PRAYER AND BLESSING
Lord Jesus, you have returned to the splendour of heaven but have not left us alone. We praise you that you continue to pray for us. May we be inspired by your ascension to spread your message of hope and the certainty of your return; for your kingdom’s sake. Amen.
And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit be among you and remain with you always. Amen.
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
In the name of Christ. Amen.