Webster United Church of Christ
April 20, 2025
Easter Sunday
He is RISEN!
ORDER OF SERVICE
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Welcome
WE INVITE GOD’S PRESENCE INTO OUR HEARTS
Ringing of the Bell
Gathering Music
Centering Music “Sanctuary”
Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true; with thanksgiving, I’ll be a living sanctuary for you.
Moment of Silence
*Call to Worship
One: Christ is risen!
All: Christ is risen indeed!
One: The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
All: This is the day that God has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it!
One: Christ is risen!
All: Christ is risen indeed!
*Opening Hymn #233 “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” vs. 1, 3 & 4
*Opening Prayer (Unison)
Gracious God, with the women, we come grieving to the tomb only to find that the stone is rolled away and the tomb lies empty. Relieve us of our fear and confusion and fill us with joy and wonder as we realize the truth of what we are witnessing: Jesus is risen! Amen.
Children’s Time
One: People of God, what is your prayer for our youth?
All: Our prayer is that they grow up to be like Jesus—strong and brave, full of grace and truth! And, we pray that we will help them. Amen.
Shared Prayer: Prayer of Jesus (sins)
Unison Singing (while youth depart) “This Little Light of Mine” #524
WE PRAYERFULLY ENTRUST OURSELVES TO GOD
Silent Prayer of Confession
Words of Encouragement
We are an Easter people! Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has redeemed all of creation. Know that you are made whole, forgiven of all your sins, and empowered to live out the gospel in joy.
Joys and Concerns
Prayers of the People
Congregational Response “Be Still and Know” #743
WE LISTEN FOR GOD’S WORD
Scripture Psalm 118:17, 21-24; *Luke 24:1-12
Message
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WE OFFER GRATITUDE TO GOD
Invitation to Give and Share
God, your generosity is without measure, and we cannot express our gratitude enough. We ask only that you would accept these gifts, brought to you with joyful hearts, and use them so that all might know your abundant love and mercy.
Gathering of Gifts “Crown Him Lord of All,” arr. McDonald
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*Song of Praise “We Give You but Your Own” #785
We give you but your own, what e’er the gift may be; all that we have is yours alone, we give it gratefully.
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*Prayer of Commitment (unison)
Holy and ever-living God, we rejoice at the empty tomb! Open our ears to the testimony of all who profess their faith in you, and inspire us to bear witness to your transformative love in our own lives. Remind us that we are all, without exception, your beloved and redeemed children, and help us to work together for a brighter future for all people. Amen.
WE GO FORTH AS GOD’S PEOPLE
*Closing Hymn #253 “Yours is the Glory, Resurrected One,” vs. 1-2
*Blessing
*Blessing Response #809 “God Be with You”
Sending Music