Lansdale United Methodist ChurchNovember 3, 2019

Praising God . . . Making Disciples . . . Serving

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300 North Broad St., Lansdale PA 19446Church (215) 855-8364

Fax (215) 855-1534 Office Hours:

Mon. – Thurs., 9 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.office@lansdaleumc.org www.lansdaleumc.org

Twenty-first Sunday after PentecostAll Saints’ Sunday

God creates out of nothing. Wonderful, we say. Yes, it is, to be sure. But God does what is still more wonderful—God creates saints out of sinners. – Soren

Kierkegaard, 1813-1855

9:00 a.m. Worship Service

Greeting and Welcome

We're glad you're attending our traditional service of worship. Your presence is a joy. We hope you feel welcome and important to us. We pray that the Spirit of God will touch your soul as we worship. Large print bulletins and hearing devices are available. An usher will assist you. White Prayer Cards are also available in your pew for sharing your joys and concerns. An usher will collect them during the hymn prior to the Pastor’s Prayer for the People. Please be sure to tell us who you are. Fill out as much information as you like in the Ritual of Friendship booklet in the pew. Pass it along and meet your pewmates.   The (*) signals an invitation to stand if you are comfortable doing so.

Prelude Welcome Ed Conrad Guest Organist

Please prayerfully prepare your heart for worship during the Prelude.

*Call to Worship

Pastor: Remember today the many saints who have gone before us.People: They blazed a trail of courage throughout time.Pastor: Their touch was healing, and their words were a comfort.People: The love of Jesus was in their hearts and on their lips.Pastor: We are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses.People: Therefore, let us worship God with joy!

*Hymn For All the Saints (stanzas 1,2,4,6) UMH 711

Chancel Choir Anthem Pie Jésu Lightfoot

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Prayer for All Saints Sunday

God of us all, you are the source of all goodness and holiness. The work of your hands is manifest in the lives of all your saints in light and on earth. The beauty of your truth is reflected in the compassion of all your saints. We aspire, O God, to know the joy experienced by your saints. We aspire to be blessed by their example of living and serving in union with Christ. We ask that as we share in celebrating their lives, we may also share in their peace, which passes all understanding. Hear our prayer in the glorious name of Jesus, our Lord. Amen.

Act of Praise I Sing Praises to Your Name TFWS 2037

Prayer for Illumination Luann Ingram, Reader

First Reading 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12 Pew Bible NT 205

*Gospel Reading Luke 19:1-10 Pew Bible NT 82

*Act of Praise Alleluia (Celtic) TFWS 2043

Sermon Jesus and Paul: A Tale of Two Christianities Pastor Bill

*Hymn How Blest Are They Who Trust in Christ UMH 654 Have your White Prayer Cards ready to give to an usher!

Pastor’s Prayer for the People

Offering and Prayer of Gratitude

Generosity is the heartbeat of every Christ-Follower. Generous giving nourishes the soul and promotes goodness in the world. Today you have an opportunity to empower national and inter-national graduate students by giving generously in support of World Communion Sunday. Thank you for your giving! Send a text contribution to 73256 with the message LansdaleFirstUMC, or use the QR Code to give electronically.

*Praise God’s Gifts Lift Praise ST. DENIO

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Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

All Christians are welcome at the Lord’s Supper in our church. The method of communing will be by Intinction. The ushers will guide you to the communion station where you will receive a piece of consecrated bread for partly dipping (intinction) into the consecrated wine in the chalice. You are then invited to pray at the chancel rails or return to your pew for prayer and reflection.

Prayer of Confession, Silent Prayers, and Pardon

Holy God, your Scriptures teach us that you are gracious, full of mercy, slow to anger, and radiant with unflinching love. The same Scriptures call us to imitate you. We confess we have not always been gracious or merciful. We are sometimes too quick to anger, and our love is lacking. Forgive us, we pray, in the name of Christ our Lord. Free our hearts to imitate you. Free our spirits to be more gracious and merciful. Free us completely to be joyous people, obedient to your call to love, and ablaze with the love of Jesus. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hymn (Seated) I Come with Joy UMH 617

The Great Thanksgiving Musical Setting B UMH 18 Rays Koshy, Cantor

During this holy prayer, we will name those whom we honor today, those who have parted from us for a while, until the great day comes when we will be reunited again in the glory of the risen Christ. We remember with love today Pearl Rhodes, Ralph Kinnamon, Cora Clemmer and Gordon (Bud) Williams. As each name is read, a bell will toll and a candle will be lighted.

The Lord’s Prayer UMH 895

Receiving the Bread of Heaven and the Cup of Salvation

*Prayer after Communion UMH 11

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*Hymn Lord, Dismiss Us with Thy Blessing UMH 671

*Blessing and Going in Peace to Serve

Postlude

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Interim Pastor's Weekly NotesWeekly Schedule: Tuesday, 3:00-8:00 p.m.; Wednesday, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.; Visit Men's Retreat on Saturday

Today is All Saints’ Sunday, one of holiest dates on the Church's calendars. It's a day for remembering those Christians in our community who have passed from earth to heaven in the last year. The memories we stir in our minds are meant to spur us on to emulate the faith and work of those we love but see no more in this life. The day is meant to recall those saints from the earliest days of the Church until today. You will hear in the Great Thanksgiving the names of recognized holy people from Israel, the Early Church, from Methodism, and saints right here at Lansdale UMC. This day allows us to praise God for the living connection between us on earth and those in heaven. This is the creed's belief in "communion of the saints" lived out before our eyes. You'll note the use of traditional hymns and themes, I hope, with satisfaction.

A bit of liturgics: lectionaries are collections of four readings from the Bible set aside for each day of the year. Such daily reading will reap a near completion of the Bible in a year. Sunday's four readings typically follow a cycle of readings from the Old Testament, a Psalm, a New Testament Epistle, and a Gospel Reading. Currently, we are hearing two readings: an Epistle and a Gospel. The readings inform the prayers written, the hymns sung, and the sermon preached.

Charge Conference was held yesterday. A report of the proceedings will be in a future edition of The Circuit Rider. I want to thank our church leaders for their time and dedication to representing our church.

I'm beginning a new Bible Study today on The Gospel according to Matthew to take us to the end of the year. It's my goal to complete a detailed look at chapters 1-4, taking the story of Jesus from his infancy until his adult appearance in Galilee to begin his mission on God's behalf. If you haven't opened a Bible in a while to study it closely and carefully, I invite you to make a personal commitment to avail yourself of this important means of grace and join the study. 

Sunday, December 1st, begins a new Christian year. With that day comes the Advent traditions of decorating the church with seasonal symbols like lighting the Advent Wreath and the Christmas Trees; singing beloved carols and basking in the glory of the Nativity Scene. Two Christmas Eve services are planned for 4:00 p.m. (casual family service) and 7:00 p.m. when merry worshippers will gather for a traditional service of candles, carols, and holy communion. Mark your calendars!    

Pray for the UMM on retreat, for your new pastor, for each other, and me. You are in my daily prayers. Have a blessed week. 

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What’s Going On? November 3 – November 10Sunday, November 3 – All Saints’ Day 9:00 a.m. Worship Service (Nursery Care – infants-age 3)10:00 a.m. Fellowship – Stringer Auditorium10:30 a.m. Sunday School – All ages10:30 a.m. Verge! Bible Study – Sanctuary11:30 a.m. Beau Bells Rehearsal12:00 p.m. Youth Group – Hecker Room 6:30 p.m. Girl Scouts – New Horizons Room

Monday, November 412:00 p.m. AA – Hecker Room

Tuesday, November 5 6:00 p.m. Daisy Scouts – Sunday School Rooms 7:00 p.m. Finance Committee – Conference Room 7:00 p.m. GA – Hecker Room Wednesday, November 6 6:30 a.m. Men’s Bible Study – West Main Diner 9:30 a.m. Women’s Bible Study – Stringer Auditorium 6:30 p.m. Recovery – Hecker Room 7:00 p.m. Trustees – Conference Room Thursday, November 711:30 a.m. Dine Around – Pizza Time Saloon 7:00 p.m. Chancel Choir 7:00 p.m. NA – Hecker Room

Friday, November 8 – Men’s Retreat

Saturday, November 9 – Men’s Retreat 7:00 p.m. NA – Hecker Room

Sunday, November 10 – Men’s Retreat 9:00 a.m. Worship Service (Nursery Care – infants-age 3)10:00 a.m. Fellowship – Stringer Auditorium10:30 a.m. Sunday School – All ages10:30 a.m. Verge! Bible Study – Sanctuary12:00 p.m. Youth Group – Hecker Room 6:30 p.m. Girl Scouts – New Horizons Room

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Prayers

JOYSLuann and Ed Ingram have a new granddaughter – Scarlet Rose, daughter of Jacob and Teresa!

CONCERNSHealing:

Jim FisherPete NollMary M. battling cancerJoanne’s son with brain cancerGeri’s nephew Kevin, from lymphatic cancerMel recovering from breast cancer surgeryHelen’s husbandMillie’s cancer has returned, having surgeryDeb’s friend, Christina, medical issuesJane’s son, Shirley’s brother, Chuck, from ongoing medical issues

Bill, Kathy and Louise, Kathy’s motherAnita and her dad – he’s on hospiceFlorence for peace and relief from stressGood test results for Sandi’s sister SallyThe Snyders’ friend Jack is having more medical tests

Happy Birthday to You!

Wayne Wylie (11/8) Kellie Duffy (11/9)

Happy Anniversary to You!

Sherri & Ed Bennett (11/13) Dan & Terry Jenkins (11/16)Douglas & Kathleen Kober (11/14)

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We always pray for:Unspoken requestsSafe travels for all those traveling Guidance and wisdom for church leadershipGuidance and wisdom for our government leadershipPeace to worship without fearAll those seeking shelterAll those affected by mental illnessAll affected by natural disastersAll men and women serving in our Armed Forces and their families

PRAYER CHAINContact Janet Harper at (215) 699-3026 if you’d like to add a joy or concern.

Youth Group has resumed its regular weekly meetings each Sunday from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. If you’re in grades 7 through 12, please join us for games, worship, fun lessons, and fellowship. Any questions, talk to Ian Bonner or Mike Richardson

BRING YOUR FRIENDS!!

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FIRST TIME GUEST?WE’RE GLAD YOU’RE HERE!

Please be sure to introduce yourself to one of our ushers.

MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE! Chancel Choir rehearses on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.If you’re interested in joining the choir, speak to Rays or any choir member.

New singers are always welcome!

Bulletin Deadline is Wednesday at 9:00 a.m.Please have any announcements to Becky (office@lansdaleumc.org) by that time to be included in that week’s bulletin.

ALTAR FLOWERS If you would like to sponsor altar flowers, please contact Joan Johnson or Becky in the church office two weeks in advance. The cost is $65.00.

WORSHIP AND CHRISTIAN EDUCATION TIMESWorship: 9:00 a.m.

Fellowship in Stringer Auditorium: 10:00 a.m.Sunday School: 10:30 a.m.

Verge! Bible Study in Sanctuary: 10:30 a.m.

GOD’S YOUTH IN MOTION

Mission Emphasis for November – Red Bird Mission

The Blue Envelope Mission Emphasis for November is designated to support Red Bird Mission, located in the Appalachian mountains of Southeastern Kentucky. Guided by Jesus Christ, they empower individuals and advocates for justice by providing educational, health and community outreach ministries to an area of low-income residents. Since 1921, it has served this isolated, rural distressed area. Chronic poverty, a lack of jobs, poor housing and rugged mountainous terrain present many obstacles to a full life of its residents. Red bird supports a PreK-12 school, along with health and wellness ministries.

To support this emphasis, make checks payable to “LUMC,” memo: “Red Bird.” Use your blue boxed or a yellow pew envelope. You may also give online through our website (www.lansdaleumc.org) or text LansdaleFirstUMC to 73256 to give your gift electronically.

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Wawa Shorti Hoagie Coupons are available year round. They are $4 each, and the UMW receives $1 from each coupon to help support their local and global missions. Order sheets are on the bulletin board or contact Maryellen Reinmiller at 215-913-1666.

Redner’s ReceiptsThe UMW is still collecting receipts from Redner’s. If you shop there, remember to scan your Redner’s card at checkout, then bring your entire receipt and put it in the container in the phone booth.

FellowshipPlease sign up on the bulletin board outside of Stringer to host fellowship.  This is a wonderful time to catch up with old friends or to get to know new friends. The main team members (Luann, Coles, Reinmillers) will usually be in attendance but would appreciate your support.  Thanks!

Giving Tree Is Up! This year’s Giving Tree is in the Stringer lobby and supports Laurel House, Methodist Services and Glad Tidings. Pick a card and bring the gift (with the card attached) to worship on November 24 for dedication.

Make somebody’s Christmas merry!

Preparing for 2020 - From Warren Shaedle, Financial Secretary Last Sunday, 22 pledge cards for 2020 totaling $84,568 were consecrated by Pastor Bill. The pledged amount so far covers about 20% of our anticipated revenue needed in the new year. An additional $4,192 for the Improvement Fund was pledged. While in the past we had financial focus messages in the services leading up to pledge time, the reality is that such an approach yielded little change in the pattern of giving. This year, we've taken a break from that approach to allow a simple message of generosity to lead us to supporting God’s work. LUMC needs each of us to consider prayerfully and seriously our financial support. It's been a tough year for us in money matters. We need all those with hearts for giving to give. It is not too late to pledge a portion of what God has entrusted to us. Pledge cards are available in the Narthex or contact me.  

Dig Deeper into the Word

Have Pastor Bill’s sermons on Jesus and Paul spoken to you? Have you been inspired and now want to go deeper into the Word? The LUMC Library has commentaries, Biblical and theological studies as well as reference works. Check out the titles on the LUMC Book Cart and in the library.

This Week in Sunday School

After sharing in fellowship, please join us in one of our adult Sunday school classes at 10:30. Bring your coffee with you!

Verge! Shifts to Bible Study During November and December

Beginning November 3, Pastor Bill will lead a Bible Study on the Gospel according to Matthew's chapters 1-4, which include the Infancy Gospel and the origins of Jesus' early ministry. The study will explore the language, theology, and cultural influences present in the gospel. All that's needed is a desire to learn and your favorite Bible.

New Horizons class will attend Verge! through November.

Wesleyan class study for October through November is The Way: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus by Adam Hamilton. In December, we will focus on an Advent Study. We meet upstairs in Room A202 after Fellowship at 10:30 a.m. Come and walk with us on “The Way.”

Upper Room class will be studying God’s Messy Family. The class will meet in its regular room upstairs.

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Coming Up

Adult Dine-Around

Let's all get out and enjoy the beautiful fall weather by attending the Adult Dine-Around.  We will meet at the Pizza Time Saloon, 1900 West Point Pike, West Point at 11:30 A.M. this Thursday, Nov. 7th.  It will help greatly if you sign up on the bulletin board opposite Stringer Auditorium.  Questions?  Please call Marlene Ney at 215-822-8067.  

9 th Annual Men’s Retreat is November 8-10. This year’s theme is Understanding Your Unique Identity with special guest speaker The Rev. Mark D. Moore. The retreat will be at Camp Innabah, 712

Pughtown Road, Spring City, PA 19475 and will cost $115 for the weekend. For more information, see the poster in the Stringer lobby and on the UMM bulletin board. All men are welcome – invite your friends!

Annual Potato Filling Sale

Cost: $4.00 per quart Pick Up: November 25Order Forms due November 11 Phone Orders due November 13

Our potato filling makes a great side dish for holiday entertaining and can be frozen for later! Proceeds support our Volunteer in Mission Adult Volunteers. Order forms are on the bulletin board outside of Stringer. Contact Barb Hartmann at 215-896-3350 or e-mail ebhartmann1722@gmail.com with any questions.

Save the Date – November 16 at 7 pm ---- Stringer Auditorium“100 Years: One Woman’s Fight for Justice”

Elouise Cobell (Blackfeet) filed a class-action lawsuit in 1996 alleging the federal government’s mismanagement of the trust funds of more than 500,000 American Indians—and won! The Church and Society Work Area brings you this dramatic documentary as this year’s focus on Native American Awareness.

Our church family, our friends and neighbors are invited.

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Sermon Notes

Today's readings reveal unmistakable respect for struggling people held by Jesus and Paul. In the first reading, Paul assures his congregation in Thessaloniki that their struggles, resulting from their loyalty to Christ, are known to Paul and that Paul is making them known to God in prayer. In the gospel reading, Jesus' passion for sinners, especially those who fail to live up to the standards of goodness and justice, is demonstrated in his visit to the home of a man held in high contempt by his neighbors. It is to this man that the gift of healing comes. Does Jesus have a higher regard for sinners than we do? Does he see in them saints waiting in the wings?  

Here’s How to Contact Our Pastor and Staff

Interim Pastor – Bill Lentz pastorbill@lansdaleumc.orgAdministrative Assistant – Becky Conrad office@lansdaleumc.orgDirector of Music Ministry – Rays Koshy rjnewkoshy@gmail.comOrganist – Ruth Rineer ruth.e.rineer@gmail.comChildren’s Education Director - Liz Bonner lumceducation@verizon.netBright Beginnings Nursery School Dir. – Liz Bonner BrightBeginnings5@verizon.netNursery Director – Donna Fritz clod21361@aol.comYouth Directors– Ian Bonner and Mike Richardson lumcyouthteam@gmail.comCustodian – Bill Scheetz wps80jr@gmail.com

Emergency Contact – Pastor Bill – 484-767-235213