Faith United Church of Christ “An inclusive spiritual family shaping a better you for creating a better world.

A place to make a difference.” June11,2017 SacredFellowship10:45a.m.We are delighted that you are here today! We hope you will find us an affirming, uplifting, and committed family of faith. Here we work to make everyone, without any exceptions, to feel ac-cepted, inspired, and encouraged in their spiritual journey. In dialogue, we seek to understand. In encouragement, we seek to heal. In all things we yearn to live by love, for peace, with joy. This is a place where your intellect will be challenged, your heart will be nurtured, and your spirit re-freshed. Varying beliefs are expressed openly and freely, and your doubts will not be suppressed. We trust that we are all, every person and part of creation, continuing to be blessed by God’s grace; and that in community we can help each other to see this grace alive in our lives and rela-tionships. We hope to share our gifts with you, even as we pray that you will want to share your gifts with us. Whoever you are and wherever you may be in your life’s journey, we invite you to be a part of our lives and our spiritual home. Welcome!

POINTS TO PONDER

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.”

— Matthew 28.19a, 20a “To make disciples is to cultivate virtue in others as it was in Christ. This is not an exclusive or big-oted view of what religion is best, nor a litmus test of what to and not to believe; but rather an af-firmation that to love others, the heart of Jesus’ message, is a message that needs to be spread to everyone – regardless of the religious system by which they incorporate that ethic.”

— Rev. Bret S. Myers, 6/8/2017

“Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.”

— II Corinthians 13.11b-12 “Paul’s final salutation to the Corinthians is to remind them of all he has already said. Put aside the disorder and disagreement, and come to a consensus with one another. Put aside animosities and power plays, and live in peace with each other. If they will do this, this is what it means for the presence of God to be with them; for the God he is speaking of is characterized by the Spirit of love and peace. Perhaps humorously, or seriously, Paul pushes the limits of the Corinthians, who have been bickering with one another with this recommendation: ‘Greet one another with a holy kiss.’ One might wonder what other kinds of kisses there may be, but this emphasis on having them to physically act on the love they are to have for one another is testimony that Paul is not talking about a love that is only ‘feeling-based.’ To love and be at peace with others means we have to treat them as people we genuinely appreciate, care for, and with whom our hearts and souls are tied.”

— Rev. Bret S. Myers, 6/8/2017

CALLED TOGETHER AS SPIRITUAL FAMILY Welcome and Announcements + Report from Annual Conference

Please sign the registration pads at the ends of the pews on the center aisle. We ask that you please shut off cell phones and practice quietness during the service.

Please join us for fellowship and refreshments after the worship in Romig Hall (lower level of elevator or stairs).

* = You are invited to stand as you are able

Prelude Welcoming the Light of Love in Our Midst (acolytes light altar candles)We prepare ourselves for communing with the sacred as love’s light is brought into our awareness. The light of love burns within and among each of us, and we carry that light into our sanctuary; visu-ally reminding us of the image of the divine that lives in our hearts, minds, and souls – and that we nourish through our faith-filled fellowship. Affirming God’s Presence in Us All “You Matter!” Sharing Christ’s Peace As a sign of our reconciliation with God and one another, greet and welcome those around you and share “the peace of Christ.” *Centering Our Souls Toward the 21st Century: A Statement of Commitment In 1993, the General Synod of the United Church of Christ adopted this "Statement of Commitment" as the starting point for four "seasons" of churchwide theological reflection on the future of our community of faith as we enter the 21st century. The statement underscores that the UCC seeks to be a church where all people—including those histori-cally excluded by the Christian community—can find a home.

(Leader reads regular and bold print; congregation responds with italicized print.) We, the United Church of Christ, look toward the twenty-first Century with anticipation. We trust God's promises. We are eager to respond to God's call. We believe that God does have more truth and light yet to break forth from God's holy word. Thanks be to God. A Church attentive to the Word By God's grace, we will be an attentive church. We commit ourselves anew to listen for God's Word in Holy Scripture, in our rich heritage, in faithful witness, and in the fresh winds of the Holy Spirit so that we might discover God's way for us. A Church inclusive of all people By God's grace, we will be an inclusive church. We commit ourselves to be a church for all people and, in Christ, we celebrate, affirm, and embrace the rich diversity of God's good creation. A Church responsive to God's call

By God's grace, we will be a responsive church. We commit ourselves to be a church of jus-tice and mercy and peace so that lives may be renewed, spirits revived, and worlds trans-formed. A Church supportive of one another By God’s grace, we will be a supportive church. We commit ourselves to strengthen Christ’s body through renewed resolve and mutual support in our common ministries. Recognition of Rev. Ann Graves’ 25th Anniversary of Ordination *Hymn of the Spirit’s Vision “O for a Church” see insert Our Stories of Random Acts of Kindness & Intentional Deeds of Compassion WE LISTEN FOR THE SACRED IN THE MIDST OF OUR LIVES A Time for All God’s Children Prayers

Sharing Our Joys and Concerns Silent Meditation: The Prayers of the People Pastoral Prayer Unison Prayer “PrayerfromtheNewZealandBookofCommonPrayer”

Eternal Spirit, Earth-maker, Pain-bearer, Life-giver, Source of all that is and that shall be, Father and Mother of us all, Loving God, in whom is heaven: The hallowing of your name echo through the universe! The way of your justice be followed by the peoples of the world! Your heavenly will be done by all created beings! Your commonwealth of peace and free-dom sustain our hope and come on earth. With the bread we need for today, feed us. In the hurts we absorb from one another, forgive us. In times of temptation and test, strengthen us. From trials too great to endure, spare us. From the grip of all that is evil, free us. For you reign in the glory of the power that is love, now and forever. Amen *Hymn of the Great Commission “You Are the Seed” #528 Scripture Lessons Matthew 28.16-20 II Corinthians 13.11-14 Message “Encouragement to Love and Be Peaceful” *Hymn for Love and Peace “O God of Love, O God of Peace” #571

WE DEDICATE OURSELVES TO GOD’S SERVICE

THROUGH FAITHFULNESS Giving of Our Tithes and Offerings “Generosity arises from gratitude like heat arises from fire. Like fire, gratitude is lovely to see;

but when it warms others with generosity, that is when it becomes a true blessing.” Offertory *Song of Dedication Tune: Old Hundredth; p. 7 The light of love does shine most bright when all are siblings in our sight; We are one fam’ly on this earth; we are God’s children from our birth. *Unison Prayer of Dedication By the Spirit’s inspiration, we give of what we have that your blessings may abound and that goodness may flourish. Instill in us a spirit of generosity that we may do our part to help all who are in need. Pour out your Spirit upon us that we may envision one world, the world of all of Your children. Let our lives be a testimony of the unifying nature of your love to all that we meet along our life’s way. Amen Encouragement for the Journey

“Seekers Benediction” from Seekers Church, Washington, D.C. Go into the seething cauldron of the world.

Listen for the questions and voices that you would rather not hear. Answer them with the energy of the Holy Spirit,

the power of the One who gives us life, and the boundless love of Christ.

Postlude *The Light of Love Goes into the World Love’s light is not extinguished from our worship, but is transferred from the flame of the candles to the passion in our hearts that we may go forth to let the light of love shine through us as we go to serve in the world!

WE GO FORTH AS PEACEMAKERS TO CREATE JUSTICE FOR ALL

Our worship is fulfilled, and our purpose is confirmed, through our service as God’s stewards to the world and all creation.

Use the blessings God has given you as you share the joy in your heart, the wisdom in your mind,

the love in your spirit, and the peace in your soul.

Thankyouforsharingsacredfellowshipwithus.

Faith UCC is an open and affirming church, embracing diversity in our congregation and community, and affirming the dignity and worth of every person. We are an inclusive com-munity of faith that celebrates God's presence through worship and the sharing of God's

word. We welcome all persons into the full life and ministry of the church, regardless of race, ethnic background, gender identity, sexual orientation, capability, or circumstance of life.

Our Ministry

Ministers — All the Congregation Pastor — Rev. Bret Myers Ushers — Jim Welsh, Peggy Salamon Trustee — Larry Bair Liturgist — Children’s Message — Acolyte — Nursery — Fellowship — Women’s Guild Honoring Pastor Ann’s 25 years of ordained service

Church Staff Custodian — Scott Luzier Church School Coordinator –- Barbara Chellman Choir Director – Colin Ruffer Pianist — Barbara Chellman Administrative Assistant –- Jeff Stormer The liturgies for this morning’s worship, along with the Song of Dedication, were written by Rev. Bret S. Myers except where otherwise noted. .

************Welcome to all first-time (and returning) guests to Faith UCC! We would like to get to know you and for you to get to know us. Join us after worship for coffee and conversation.

There is free parking on Sundays at the meters and at the McAl-lister & Pugh Street parking garages – so, we hope you’ll worship with us again next Sunday!

------------------------------------------------- Electronic Giving Options: During the offering time in the service, you may place your offerings on the plates the

ushers will bring around. If you prefer to give electronically simply scan the QR code with your smart phone to be directed to our online donation page.

------------------------------------------------ June Special Offering Strengthen the Church (STC) is a special mission offering to reimagine and build the future of the UCC: to largely support youth ministries and full-time leaders for new churches in parts of the country where the UCC voice has not been heard. STC funds will also be used to award grants to help congregations communicate the “God is still speaking,” message.

Please note “STC” in the memo line of your check or on the giving envelope. Thank you for your consideration and financial support!

• June 11 Today: Celebrating Rev. Ann Graves—25 Years of Ordained Service! After Service in Romig Hall • June 12 Consistory Meeting, 5:30pm • June 14 70th Annual Strawberry Festival • June 18 Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time • June 25 Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Get In Touch with Us! Faith United Church of Christ 300 E. College Avenue State College, PA 16801 Tel: (814) 237-3904 Websites: www.faithucc.info facebook.com/SCFaithUCC Church Office Email: faithucc@comcast.net Pastor’s Email: revbmyers@yahoo.com

Church Office Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Fridays

Please make an appointment with Rev. Myers if you would like to meet with the pastor. You may call the church office, or his cell at 608-370-9472.

Prayers for healing and wholeness:

Linda Merchant, Lisa B. (JoAnn’s daughter), Brandon G., Lisa Neidigh, Bunnie Hartswick, Katelynn Wilson, the Family of Jean Dreese, Darlene Ripka, April S., Randy Brown (Aimee’s Dad), the Parrish Family, the Piggot family, Robert Zupp (Eileen Pfaff’s nephew), the family of Ruth Tressler, the family of Susan Meyer, and Bob Dunham

Altar Flowers In Honor of The Bair’s 41st Anniversary

Nourishment for the Journey

“A Family of Blessing” A family of blessing is what we’re called to be

Sisters and brothers loving each otherIs our church’s destiny

A spiritual home where each one’s respected

A haven of compassionSo none is neglected

The rule that we avow is golden

Loving others as ourselvesEngraved on our hearts, we are emboldened

We are here for the opening of minds, the nurturing of hearts, and the inspiring of souls

And when we live by love, for peace, with joyOur spirits are made whole

Our daily food is kindness, without which we will starve

We work for peace and justiceSo harmony is carved

We support and lift each other up, and time and talents share

At the same table do we supAnd for each one we care

With words of grace and beauty, we encourage faithfulness

With songs of hope and dutyWe walk in humbleness

We believe in bearing fruits, through our actions and our deeds

In Christ we find our rootsBy his virtues are we freed

Transform our spirits, transform the world

This is our daily artTill alone the flag of gentleness is finally unfurled

— Rev. Bret S. Myers, 3/12/2014

*******

Interested in being a new member of Faith UCC?

As Faith UCC welcomes a new interim pastor, we also welcome new members to join in our community of faith. If you are interested in becom-ing a member of our family, please let Rev. Myers know of your interest. If you are unsure whether you would like to take this step now or later, Rev. Myers will be glad to speak with you regarding your questions and concerns.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! June 19-23 Bible Day Camp for children aged pre-school through 6th grade. Watch for more details soon!

A special Thank You! to Colin Ruffer for serving as Pianist today while Mark is out of town!

Embracing and Implementing Inclusion IICC friend and participant Shih-In Ma is involved with bringing this to-gether and we highly recommend it!

• meet people outside your usual social circles • learn more about diversity issues in our communities • improve and expand interpersonal skills and increase cultural

competence • learn what it takes to build a richer and more inclusive community

here in “Happy Valley” To register: Go to http://www.cvent.com/events/community-diversity-conference/event-summary-36267533a72c4adf81abebf255104df9.aspx and click the “Register” tab.

At the last PCC ONA Ministry team meeting, folks requested additional informa-tion regarding the session that the ONA Ministry Team is sponsoring at this year's Annual Meeting. This session is being provided by folks from the Central PA Community Respond-ers Group. They are interested in holding these short workshops throughout the community. If your church is interested in hosting (and inviting other community members) please contact Ann Van Dyke to make the arrangements. There is no cost for the presentation, but the group does suggest a community donation that

can be provided to the network to continue its work. This is the session that the CRN is doing at Annual meeting. It can be completed in about one hour. Becoming Allies: Stepping In What canyou do to STOP HATE? Ann Vandyke, a member of the Central Pennsylvania Community Responder's Network will present scenarios that demonstrate how effectively and sensitively inter-vene when someone is verbally or physically harassed. Guidance is provided on how churches can "step in" and be an ally. For more information or to schedule a workshop: Contact Ann at : avandyke3@outlook.com IFTAR with the INTERFAITH COMMUNITY – a beautiful occasion and opportunity for learning – hosted by the Turkish Cultural Center The Iftar is the meal served at the end of the day (sunset) during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, to break the day's fast. Literally, it means "breakfast"! All Welcome! Come build friendships with your Muslim neighbors! RSVP needed for number of guests.

• Saturday, June 17, gathering about 8:30-8:45 pm – State College Friends Meeting, 611 East Prospect Ave., State College. RSVP by Tuesday, June 13 to office@statecollegefriends.org

The Ladies' Guild will sponsor a special Fellowship Reception to honor Pastor Ann Graves in celebration of the 25 years since she obtained her Ordination in Ministry. Please join us after service to congratulate her.

There is still time to register for the Rescheduled Hartman Center Golf Outing! Hartman Center Golf Outing in memory of Rev. Lee Lawhead Saturday, June 17, 2017, 1:30 p.m. start Fairview Golf Course, Quentin (Lebanon), PA Come on out for Hole Contests, Prizes, $10,000 Hole-in-One Contest and more! To Register:

SPECIAL JUNE INTERFAITH COFFEE HOUR – IFTAR at the MASJID The Islamic Society of Central Pennsylvania invite the interfaith community to join an iftar at

the masjid (mosque)! WHEN: Friday, June 16, gather at 8:30 pm – meal will commence after sunset & prayer about 15 minutes later WHERE: Islamic Society of Central Pennsylvania, 709 Ridge Avenue, State Col-lege – parking on street, in ISCP lot, & at Korean church lot next door No RSVP Needed – Free Event! Please Come Join Your Muslim & Interfaith Friends! All Are Welcome! Please Note: THERE WILL BE NO COFFEE HOUR AT WEBSTERS on Mon-day, June 19 – IICC Coffee Hours return there on Monday, July 17 & Monday,

August 21 – (& move to 3rd Tuesdays September – February!)

Reception by Pennsylvania Prison Society – Centre County Chapter. Dedicated volunteers who visit people in our local jails and prisons, and who advocate for a fair and restorative criminal justice system form The Pennsylvania Prison Society. PPS is a wonderful volun-teer opportunity for individuals from all faith backgrounds. The Centre County Chapter also provides programming and makes donations of used clothing, games, and books at our local jail. * WHEN: Wednesday June 14, 5:00 p.m. * WHERE: Hoss' Sea and Steak House, 1450 North Atherton Street * WHY: Come Learn About Our Work! Fascinating Volunteer Possibilities! * Special Guest: Claire Shubik-Richards, Executive Director, PPS statewide * For more information contact: Janet Irons, at ironsjanetc@gmail.com