“Life-Bringing God” • Psalm 147 • Epiphany Call to Transformation through Praise • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

January 27, 2021October 15, 2021inthebiglove Leave a comment

Worship Note

As the Living God guides us through these pandemic-impacted times, as social justice reforms arise, we freely offer this worship content for you to adapt for your needs.

Time for Children of All Ages

Out of the Bag: “Praising The Rain-Bringer” Celebrating the diverse ways God supports life

Worship Service

We Gather

Call to Worship

Hallelujah!

Praise the Still Speaking God!

Let our souls sing beautifully!

Look up! See the stars? See the rain clouds?

Throughout the universe God calls each being into being.

Naming each one, putting each in its perfect place.

Every being is dressed, fed, and empowered.

Look around! See our children? See our crops?

Year after year God sends the seasons

sustaining all beings in ever-turning cycles.

Life goes on and on and on…

Hallelujah!

The Still Speaking God is Still Speaking…

to all beings, including us human ones.

Hallelujah!

Light the Christ Candle

We Rest in God’s Grace

Releasing and Receiving

How is it with your soul? Check in with God. Turn toward God in honesty, however is best for you today. Release what is no longer yours to carry. Hand it over to God. Receive what God is bringing to you in this precious moment, including sweet memories and new awarenesses. When you are ready to move on, say “Amen,” with gratitude in your heart.

Silent Prayer

Shift into simply being with God, silently. A helpful way to enter sacred silence is to offer this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10:

Be still and know that I am God. (pause)

Be still and know that I am. (pause)

Be still and know. (pause)

Be still. (pause)

Be. (pause)

Rest in God’s loving presence for as long as you wish. When you’re ready to move on, take a deep breath, let it out, thank God, and say, “Amen.”

God’s Grace

God’s grace is given to all beings, all beings. Pause for a moment and consider someone else, some other creature, that may be the recipient of God’s grace at this moment. The plants grateful for precipitation, the mammals cozily napping indoors. The mountain peaks donning a new white coat, the river beds flush with flow. Join your soul’s song of joy for God’s grace with theirs. We are all blessed by God.

We Listen

Scripture Reading: Psalm 147 (LTP)

Hallelujah!

How good to sing God praise! How lovely the sound!

The Lord rebuild Jerusalem and gathers the exiles of Israel, healing the brokenhearted, binding their aching wounds.

God fixes the numbers of stars, calling each by name. Great is our god and powerful, wise beyond all telling. The Lord upholds the poor but lets the wicked fall.

Sing thanks to the Lord, sound the harp for our God. The Lord stretches the clouds, sending rain to the earth, clothing mountains with green.

The Lord feels the cattle and young ravens when they call. A horse’s strength, a runner’s speed – they count for nothing! The Lord favors the reverent, those who trust in God’s mercy.

Jerusalem, give glory! Praise God with song, O Zion! For the Lord strengthens your gates guarding your children within. The Lord fills your land with peace, giving you golden wheat.

God speaks to the earth, the word speeds forth. The Lord sends heavy snow and scatters frost like ashes. The Lord hurls chunks of hail. Who can stand such cold?

God speaks, the ice melts; God breathes, the streams flow. God speaks God’s word to Jacob, to Israel, holy laws and decrees. God has not done this for others, no others receive this wisdom.

Hallelujah!

May God add a blessing to the reading and reflecting upon God’s Holy Word. Amen.

Quote from Rev. Dr. Brian Wren, contemporary hymn-writer:

“Naming God truthfully is important, since to name God untruthfully is to delude ourselves and worship an idol. Naming God truthfully is especially important if language shapes and angles thinking and behavior, since untruthful God-language will then hinder our encounter with God and our knowledge of God.” (bw)

Scripture Practice: “Attribute Names of God”

What names for God do you use when you speak to God or about God? “The Almighty,” “Holy One,” “Lord Father”? There are as many names for God as there are beings who praise God. The Bible, our hymns, and our prayers are filled with many names for God.

Many of these are “attribute names” based on a characteristic or activity of God, such as “Divine Healer,” “Most Merciful,” “Beloved Friend.” The writings of the Hebrew psalmists and prophets are filled with many attribute names for God and for God’s promised messiah. Muslims have a beautiful list of such holy names “The 99 Names of God.” (see the Wikipedia link below.)

Today’s psalm – holy scripture to Jews, Christians, and Muslims — is a song of praise celebrating God doing all sorts of important things throughout Creation. Many phrases from Psalm 147 can easily be turned into attribute names.

For example: “The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem and gathers the exiles of Israel, healing the brokenhearted, binding their aching wounds.” (Psalm 147:2-3) generates at least four literal attribute names for God: “Rebuilder of the Capitol City,” “Gatherer of Exiles,” “Healer of the Brokenhearted,” and “Binder of Aching Wounds.”

Review the entire psalm above. Which lines speak to you? Come up with attribute names for God from those lines of praise. The next time you pray, use them when you speak with God.

Being open to new ways to speak to God opens up new ways for God to connect with us. The Source of Life and Love may be inviting you to enter new path of comfort, healing, alignment, or hope. God bless you! Amen. Soli Deo Gloria. (Glory to God Alone)

Recorded Sermon: “Ultimate Deity” A reflection upon Psalm 147 during COVID-19, orienting to a God who is the ultimate deity. Pastor Kathryn unpacks some of the symbols in the psalm and suggests potential gifts to come out of a pandemic.

Special Music: “Rain Falling from Roof” Written and Performed by Yo-Yo Ma, cello, and Wu Tong, sheng. #SongsOfComfort series © 2020. Please read the story about the music in notes below the video (in English and Chinese)

We Pray

Prayers of the People

The Lord’s Prayer

We Give Thanks

Offering

Hallelujah! (Hebrew for “Praise God”) Praise God the Consoler! Praise God the Rain-Sender! Praise God The Gate Fortifier Who Protects Our Children!” Praise God who Speaks in Snow, Frost, Hail and Flowing Streams! Hallelujah! Amen. (also see donation footnote)

We Continue in Hope

Song “Bring Many Names” Words: B Wren; Music: C R Young; Performed by First Congregational Church of Huston. (Chalice #10)

Benediction

Hallelujah!

May we forever sing new verses of praise to God!

Wherever we turn our attention, God is there!

God is Still Speaking to all creation!

Hallelujah!

May we go forth in gratitude with peace. Amen.

(the service is concluded)

Worship Resources:

All content prepared and written by Rev. Kathryn M. Schreiber, unless attributed to another source.

(bw) Brian Wren, quoted in the UMC’s History of Hymns: “Bring Many Names”

“99 Names of God”: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Names_of_God_in_Islam

Online Chalice Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/CH1995

Online New Century Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/NCH1995

Note: (Chalice) The Chalice Hymnal and (New Century) The New Century Hymnal, among other worship publications, suspended copyright restrictions early during the coronavirus pandemic. Permission may shift as conditions change. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow your platforms’ publishing requirements.

Online Publishing Date: January 27, 2021.

Permission: Permission is not granted to share or distribute this resource beyond your community without additional permission from the author. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow your platforms publishing requirements for all created content.

Donation for Use of Content: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is offered free. If you’d like to support the congregation I serve as pastor – Berkeley Chinese Community Church – we’d be most grateful for your support. Please send checks to: BCCC UCC, 2117 Acton Street, Berkeley, CA 94702, Attn: Diane Huie, Treasurer. Thank you!

Living Liturgies: www.inthebiglove.com; Facebook: “Living Liturgies”; YouTube: “Kathryn Schreiber”

Ash Wednesday DIY Ashes-Making & Ritual • Joel 2:12-13 & Psalm 51:1-12 • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

January 21, 2021January 21, 2021inthebiglove 1 Comment

Worship Note

As the Living God guides us through these pandemic-impacted times, as social justice reforms arise, we freely offer this worship content for you to adapt for your needs.

About Ash Wednesday and the Season of Lent

We begin the holy season of Lent on Ash Wednesday practicing contrition and confession, spiritual practices for refreshing our relationship with God. Lent is a time to seek ease from suffering and illusions. We practice release and acceptance of actions and ideas to grow in integrity and wellbeing. Lent lasts 40 days without Sundays, concluding on Easter morning. Based on the lunar calendar, the dates of Lent vary year to year.

Traditionally, the dried palms from the previous year’s Palm Sunday are burnt to make ash for Ash Wednesday service. In 2020, many of us did not gather for Palm Sunday, instead we worshipped in our homes due to COVID-19 restrictions. While we may not have the traditional items, we can honor the timeless meaning of these rituals. Burning the “triumphant” palms to make ash is a humbling reminder of the fickle nature of humanity. This year, we adapt!

Making Ashes

Please read through all directions before beginning

Make dried “palms”: Assemble pieces of regular weight paper. Use what you have – used or new paper. You’ll need pieces about the size of your hand — notepad sheets, cut up used envelopes, quartered larger pieces of paper. Invite members of your household to write on the paper whatever they wish to offer to God for transformation, especially regrets or confessions. Honor confidentiality by folding paper, only one fold (ensures better burning).

Prepare to burn “palms”: Select a fire-safe low- or no-wind place outside. Assemble: a votive candle in a fire-proof holder, matches, metal tongs for holding burning paper, a medium to large fire-proof bowl or pot, and folded paper “palms.” Fire safety: have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher at hand.

Prayerfully burn the “palms”: Light the protected votive candle. Play music or sing, if you wish. This is a time to ritually release our burdens to God. Enter into a state of prayer. Using the tongs to hold one piece of paper, light one end of the paper and burn over the fire-proof bowl or pot. Release the paper as the last bit of paper burns (it’s okay if not all the paper burns.) Repeat until all the “palms” are burnt. While it doesn’t take much ash, if you think you need more, or wish to keep offering burnt prayers, burn blank paper or dried plant matter. These “blank” offerings may be offered to God as any sort of prayer.

Making the ash: This part is messy! You may want to stay outdoors. Assemble: a lidded glass jar and a wire mesh sieve or strainer. Place the strainer over the jar opening. Pour some of the burnt ashes into the strainer and push through with a finger. Continue until all the burnt paper has been processed. Whatever bits remain behind in the strainer can be sprinkled over the earth.

Ritual Supplies Needed:

* Candle/s: at least one candle, more to set a mood, especially at night

* Ashes: homemade (see above)

* Towel: for tidying up

* Setting: intentional space for prayer and ritual

Ash Wednesday DIY Ashes Ritual

Acknowledge God’s Presence (light a candle/s)

God, You are the Source of All Life.

God, You are Embodied as Christ.

God, You are the Animating Spirit.

Sing “Come and Fill Our Hearts” (Taizé chant; many recordings on YouTube)

Scripture

God speaks to us, saying:

“Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; rend your hearts and not your clothing. Return to Me, your God, for I am gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; I relent from punishing.” (Joel 2:12-13, NRSV)

We reply to God, saying:

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Amen.” (Psalm 51:10-12, NRSV)

Private Prayer of Confession and Hope

Talk with God about shifts you’d like in your life, in your community. Conclude with The Lord’s Prayer.

Words of Assurance

Take assurance in God’s faithfulness. Burdens placed at God’s feet have been released. Requests made in God’s presence have been heard.

Receive the Ashes

Please note: Some people may not want to be touched on the forehead. You may offer to make the mark of the cross on the top of their dominant hand. If you are doing this ritual alone, you may wish to use a mirror.

We make an ash cross on our forehead/hand to remember our mortality and God’s mercy. We, too, will rise with Christ on Easter morning.

Place a finger in the ash and make the sign of the cross, saying:

(horizontal mark) May God burn away that which harms.

(vertical mark) May New Life spring from these ashes.

Blessing

May all who enter the holy season of Lent be open to God’s transforming mercy. May we journey together, seen and unseen, spiritual pilgrims on earth and in heaven. Lenten peace upon all beings. Amen.

(extinguish candle/s; the service is concluded)

Worship Resources:

All content prepared and written by Rev. Kathryn M. Schreiber, unless attributed to another source.

(NRSV) New Revised Standard Version of the Holy Bible, adapted by Kathryn M Schreiber.

Online Image: Kathryn M Schreiber, 2019.

Online Publishing Date: January 21, 2021.

“The Hope to Which We Are Called” Ephesians 1:15-19 • Epiphany Call to Transformation through Hope • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

January 20, 2021October 15, 2021inthebiglove Leave a comment

*Image: Poet Amanda Gorman, ABC7 news still photo, 1/2/2021*

Worship Note

As the Living God guides us through these pandemic-impacted times, as social justice reforms arise, we freely offer this worship content for you to adapt for your needs.

Time for Children of All Ages

Out of the Bag: “Types of Hope” We consider different kinds of hope

Worship Service

We Gather

Call to Worship

It travels through the wind like a strong bird

uplifting all who watch it sail by,

It pops out from around the corner

when we least expect it

and is delighted to be found,

It reaches out to everyone, everywhere

inviting every being

into new circles of reality,

It is always tethered to the Great I AM,

always has been,

will eternally be so.

“It” is hope – Holy hope

the hope to which God calls us.

Let us be united in sacred hope

however it greets us this day.

Amen.

Light the Christ Candle

Song: “This is a Day of New Beginnings” Words: B Wren; Music: C R Young; Published by drolas94 (Chalice #518)

We Rest in God’s Grace

Releasing and Receiving

How is it with your soul? Check in with God. Turn toward God in honesty, however is best for you today. Release what is too heavy to keep on carrying. Hand over to God what needs to be set down. Also gather up precious moments to cherish as ever-good, ever-blessed. When you are ready to move on, say “Amen,” with gratitude in your heart.

Silent Prayer

Shift into simply being with God, silently. A helpful way to enter sacred silence is to offer this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10:

Be still and know that I am God. (pause)

Be still and know that I am. (pause)

Be still and know. (pause)

Be still. (pause)

Be. (pause)

Rest in God’s loving presence for as long as you wish. When you’re ready to move on, take a deep breath, let it out, thank God, and say, “Amen.”

God’s Grace

All relationships are circular; we impact each other. This is true of our relationship with God, too. The more we attempt to be aligned with God, the more God can do with, though, and to us.

St. Paul affirmed the faith of Jesus’ followers in Ephesus and called them to continual transformation – “sanctification” – by God. We, too, through God’s grace, are called to sanctification. St. Paul invites us to trust God to fill us with wisdom and enlightenment.

Pause for a moment and consider… a thought that popped into your mind that was surprisingly uplifting; a calming spirit of cooperation moving through your community or family; a moment of deep assurance despite challenging current circumstances… these are all evidence of God’s grace flowing. Praise be to God!

We Listen

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 1:15-19 (NRSV)

(St Paul is writing to the disciples in Ephesus)

I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love towards all the saints, and for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power.

May God add a blessing to the reading and reflecting upon God’s Holy Word. Amen.

Quotes from Rev. William Sloane Coffin, beloved UCC pastor:

“Hope is a condition of the soul, not a reflection of one’s surroundings.”

“Hope arouses, as nothing else can arouse, a passion for the possible.”

Community Sermon: “Hope Harvest”

Reflect upon the hope to which God has called you. Where do you feel hope? What makes you hopeful – not just for yourself and loved ones, but for everyone? What hope do you believe comes from God, a Big Hope? Share your “hope harvest” with others. Together, this collection of hope can assure us God is at work. May we see, together, how God is inspiring us to live more fully into God’s Dream for all being.

Special Music: “Amazing Grace” Written by J Newton; Performed by Lori Marie Key at COVID Memorial. 2021. (Chalice #546)

We Pray

Prayers of the People and The Lord’s Prayer

We Give Thanks

Praise God from whom all blessings flow! Hope is just one of the many blessings that flow from the perpetual fountain that is God. May holy hope touch all beings. Amen.

We Continue in Hope

Song: “My Life Flows On, How Can I Keep from Singing” Written by R Lowry; Performed by Audrey Assad. (Chalice #619)

Benediction

(from “The Hill We Climb” by US Youth Poet Laureate, Amanda Gorman, recited at the Presidential Inauguration1/20/2021)

But one thing is certain:

If we merge mercy with might,

and might with right,

then love becomes our legacy

and change our children’s birthright

So let us leave behind a country

better than the one we were left with

Every breath from my bronze-pounded chest,

we will raise this wounded world into a wondrous one

We will rise from the gold-limbed hills of the west,

we will rise from the windswept northeast

where our forefathers first realized revolution

We will rise from the lake-rimmed cities of the midwestern states,

we will rise from the sunbaked south

We will rebuild, reconcile and recover

and every known nook of our nation and

every corner called our country,

our people diverse and beautiful will emerge,

battered and beautiful

When day comes we step out of the shade,

aflame and unafraid

The new dawn blooms as we free it

For there is always light,

if only we’re brave enough to see it

If only we’re brave enough to be it (ag)

May we go forth in hope with peace. Amen.

(the service is concluded)

Worship Resources:

All content prepared and written by Rev. Kathryn M. Schreiber, unless attributed to another source.

Online Chalice Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/CH1995

Online New Century Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/NCH1995

Online Image: ABC7 news still photo, 1/2/2021.

Online Publishing Date: January 20, 2021.

Living Liturgies: www.inthebiglove.com; Facebook: “Living Liturgies”; YouTube: “Kathryn Schreiber”

“Am I My Brother’s Keeper?” • Genesis 4:9 • Epiphany Call to Social Transformation • Beloved Community Sunday • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

January 14, 2021October 15, 2021inthebiglove Leave a comment

Worship Note

As the Living God guides us through these pandemic-impacted times, as social justice reforms arise, we freely offer this worship content for you to adapt for your needs.

Time for Children of All Ages

“The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. by Kid President” This MLK Day, celebrate the promise of change.

Worship Service

We Gather

Call to Worship

Beloved Community, though our hearts be weary or heavy, God uplifts our souls with hope.

Beloved Community, as we listen to each other’s honest stories, God opens our hearts to solidarity.

Beloved Community, when we love each other as we would like to be loved, God blooms among us as Christ.

Amen.

Light the Christ Candle

Gathering Song “His Eye Is on The Sparrow” Words: C D Martin; Music: C H Gabriel; Performed by Lauryn Hill and Tanya Blount

We Listen

Scripture Reading: Genesis 4:9 (NRSV)

Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?”

Cain said, “I do not know; am I my brother’s keeper?”

May God add a blessing to the reading and reflecting upon God’s Holy Word. Amen.

Quote from Martin Luther King, Jr.:

“We must come to see now that integration is not merely a romantic or aesthetic something, where you merely add color to a still predominantly white power structure. Integration must be seen also in political terms, where there is shared power, and where black people and white people share power together, to build a new and a great nation. In a real sense, we’re all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.” – The Other America, 1967.

Historic Reflection “The Other America”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 1967 speech at Stanford addressing societial inequalities in the US and the legacy of racism. Text: https://www.rev.com/blog/transcripts/the-other-america-speech-transcript-martin-luther-king-jr Video: https://youtu.be/dOWDtDUKz-U (min 47:48)

Contemporary Reflection “A Single Garment of Destiny”

(will post on YouTube channel “Kathryn Schreiber” before 1/17/2021)

Special Music: “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” (Dr King’s favorite hymn) Words and Music: T A Dorsey. Performed by Dinjimeel Rye Mariquit & Larah Claire Sabroso.

Prayers of the People

The Lord’s Prayer

We Rest in God’s Grace

Releasing and Receiving

How is it with your soul? Check in with God. Turn toward God in your honesty, however is best for you today. Release what is too heavy to keep on carrying. Hand over to God what needs to be set down. Gather precious moments to cherish as ever-good, ever-blessed. Prepare your spirit to receive Holy Communion. When you are ready to move on, say “Amen” with gratitude in your heart.

Silent Prayer

Shift from “doing” to “being” simply being with God silently. A helpful way to enter sacred silence is to offer this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10:

Be still and know that I am God. (pause)

Be still and know that I am. (pause)

Be still and know. (pause)

Be still. (pause)

Be. (pause)

Rest in God’s loving presence for as long as you wish. When you’re ready to move on, take a deep breath, let it out, thank God, and say, “Amen.”

God’s Grace

St. Paul has assured us that there is nothing that can separate us from God’s love. Nothing. Not any act of hatred or system of favoritism; not any wound or trauma. No matter what we have done or not done, no matter what has been done to us or not done with us, God’s healing radiance flows to us. May the Beloved Community receive the grace of God’s everlasting love and affirmation.

We Receive

Communion Song “Who Is My Mother, Who Is My Brother?” Words: S D Murray; Music: J Schrader; Performed by: Heather Featherstone. (Chalice #486)

Invitation to Holy Communion

Though we are staying safe by staying apart, through the Holy Spirit we share this meal intentionally, emotionally, and spiritually. Speak the names of those who are not physically present, but with whom you wish to share this meal.

Consecration of Elements

Place your hands over or upon the cup and the bread and pray:

“Holy God, this is Your Table where everyone is welcome,

where every hunger for justice is welcome,

where every hunger for healing is welcome.

Fill this cup and loaf with Your Abiding Presence. Amen.”

Sharing the Elements

Jesus’ Table is open to everyone. Everyone is welcome! No matter where we are physically, in this blessed moment we are assembled with Jesus and the Beloved Community.

Jesus lifts up the loaf, thanks God, breaks the bread, and offers it, saying: “Take, eat. This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

We who believe in freedom* receive holy nourishment. (eat) The Beloved Community has been fed.

Jesus lifts up the cup, thanks God, and offers the cup, saying: “Drink this, everyone! This is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

We who believe in freedom* receive holy forgiveness. (drink) The Beloved Community is forgiven.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

On this Beloved Community Sunday, Most Righteous God, we receive these gifts alongside the eternal souls of Brother Martin and Civil Rights martyrs. May we inherit their hunger for justice and their courage to repair the breeches in our nation. Amen.

Special Music: “Let Justice Roll Down” Written by Aileen Vance; Performed by Lea Morris. 2021.

We Give Thanks

Offering

We are God’s children. We are siblings. Though false doctrines have separated us, though cruel actions have wounded us, we are forever one human family. Let us praise God who makes us one! Amen. (also see donation footnote)

We Continue in Hope

Song of Hope “We Shall Overcome” African American Spiritual. Performed by Shades of Yale. 2020.

Benediction

It is the Creator who weaves us into a single garment of destiny.

It is Christ who awakens us to our inescapable network of mutuality.

It is the Holy Spirit who guides us in the building of a great nation.

May the blessing of these eternal realities give us comfort and hope.

May we go forth with peace. Amen.

(the service is concluded)

Note:

*”We who believe in freedom” is a line from “Ella’s Song” written by Sweet Honey in the Rock.

Resources:

Online Chalice Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/CH1995

Online New Century Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/NCH1995

YouTube Music Videos: search by title AND one of the authors for best results

Worship Resources:

All content prepared and written by Rev. Kathryn M. Schreiber unless attributed to another source.

(Chalice) The Chalice Hymnal and (New Century) The New Century Hymnal, among other worship publications, suspended copyright restrictions early during the coronavirus pandemic. Permission may shift as conditions change. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow your platforms publishing requirements.

Online Publishing Date: January 14, 2021.

Donation for Use of Content: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is offered free. However, as racism and injustice are still very much with us, please offer your support through prayer, affirmation, and donation to a non-profit that teaches a nonviolence way of dismantling racism. If you’d like to support the congregation I serve as pastor – Berkeley Chinese Community Church – we’d be most grateful for your support. Please send checks to: BCCC UCC, 2117 Acton Street, Berkeley, CA 94702, Attn: Diane Huie, Treasurer. Thank you!

Living Liturgies: www.inthebiglove.com; Facebook: “Living Liturgies”; YouTube: “Kathryn Schreiber”

Epiphany 2021

January 6, 2021January 6, 2021inthebiglove Leave a comment

*drawing: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber, (c) 2021*

Hello Dear Ones,

I’d planned to post this holiday greeting and image today on the Feast of the Epiphany with no idea of how violence would manifest in Washington, DC. I hope that you and your household are well, safe, and strong enough. And I pray that you will continue to do what you do to bring about God’s Dream for Humanity.

Today, January 6th, is the Feast of the Epiphany/Día de los Reyes/Three Kings Day. It commemorates adoration of the Christ Child by foreign magi (royal scholars). We Christians celebrate God’s love for all humanity given to all cultures, ethnicities, races. We also celebrate the diversity of Christ’s Church and the gift of awakenings – “epiphanies” when we see with God’s eyes.

Back in November I began sketching St. Mary singing “The Magnificat” seen through the lens of 2020. I envisioned a Christmas Card with a Black Mary singing for justice with great faith and hope:

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for God has looked with favor on the lowliness of this servant.

Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;

for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is God’s name.

God’s mercy is for those who revere God from generation to generation.

God has shown strength of arm; scattering the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

Bringing down the powerful from their thrones, and lifting up the lowly;

God has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.

God has helped the servant nation, in remembrance of divine mercy,

according to the promise God made to our ancestors, to Abraham and Sarah,

and their descendants forever.” (Luke 1:46b-55; NRVS adapted)

As I reflected on the text, much resonated with what I’m hearing young women saying today. Thus, “The Hashtag Skirt.” I hope you’ll add your preferences. And if you don’t know these movements, please check them out:

#CoronaHeroes #IntheBigLove #SaytheirNames #nonviolence #halfby2030 #WaterisLife #ParisAccord #AAPISolidarity #StandAgainstHated #Peace #Homefulness #Justice&Mercy #PoliceReform #BlackLivesMatter #ProScience #NoFence #Corona-1619 #GreenNewDeal #GirlPower #LandBack #doctorSusanMoore #LoveWins #NomorestolenSisters #gogreen #EveryVoteCounts #BetheChange #MeToo #Love (some capitalizations changed for visual appeal)

The radiant light/energy waves are inspired by Stevie Wonders’ fabulous album cover for “Songs in the Key of Life” (1976), a source of great spiritual care when I was a young adult.

This is a sacred illustration, a proclamation of faith. I hope there is something here that speaks in a true way for you. May this image be a statement of hope that 2021 will be filled with many epiphanies for us on all levels. God is still speaking. God is still calling us into fullness of being for the well-being of all beings.

In the Big Love,

Kathryn

Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber

Berkeley Chinese Community Church, UCC

Berkeley, CA, USA

P.S. If you’d like, you’re welcome to copy and print the image for personal use, including as a coloring project. However, I ask that you do not reproduce and share without my permission. You are welcome, however, to freely share the link to this page. God bless you and yours. Thank you!

“Blessed in a Wild Place” • Mark 1:4-11 • Epiphany Call to Personal Transformation • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

January 5, 2021October 15, 2021inthebiglove Leave a comment

*photo: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber (c) 2010*

Worship Note

As the Living God guides us through these pandemic-impacted times as social justice reforms arise, we offer free worship content. We’re exploring format shifts. Bear with us! Take Care!

Time for Children of All Ages

Out of the Bag: “Epiphany 2021: God is Still Speaking” God spoke to the magi through a dream to save Jesus

Worship Service

Please adapt to make this worship service your own. Your intention is what is important.

We Gather

Call to Worship

Beloved, God calls us into the Wilderness of Awakening.

Beloved, God calls us into the River of Forgiveness.

Beloved, God calls us to rise Blessed and Empowered… too!

Light the Christ Candle

Gathering Song “Shall We Gather by the River” Words and Music: Robert Lowry. Performed by Buddy Greene. (Chalice #701)

We Rest in God’s Grace

Releasing and Receiving

How is it with your soul? Check in with God however your spirit and body wish. It’s okay to enter into God’s presence uncertain to what is happening, opening to what might happen. However you arrive, God will be delighted.

Silent Prayer

We shift from speaking to God to sitting with God silently. A helpful way to enter sacred silence is to offer this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10:

Be still and know that I am God. (pause)

Be still and know that I am. (pause)

Be still and know. (pause)

Be still. (pause)

Be. (pause)

Rest in God’s loving presence for as long as you wish. When you’re ready to move on, take a deep breath, let it out, thank God, and say, “Amen.”

God’s Grace

Grace is freely given; we cannot make it happen. If we could, it would not be grace. However, we can improve our receptivity to God’s gifts.

This week we remember Jesus humbling himself to John’s ministrations in the River Jordan. Jesus models a pure spirit releasing and being open. While we may not witness the heavens open and God’s voice speak words of direct blessing, there may be times when a “knowing” comes over us and we swell with an inner sense of our beloved-ness. Such a moment of grace is quite holy. Let us cherish God’s grace whenever it comes upon us.

We Listen

Scripture Reading: Mark 1:4-11 (NRSV)

John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.

Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. John proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”

Quote from Mechthild of Magdeburg, 13c Germany mystic:

“And God said to the soul: I desired you before the world began. I desire you now, as you desire me. And where the desires of two come together, there love is perfected.”

May God add a blessing to the reading and reflecting upon God’s Holy Word. Amen.

Reflection “Blessed in a Wild Place”

John the Baptist was called out of the Temple into the Wilderness to prepare the people for God’s Beloved Son. So, too, we have been called out of our Sanctuaries into our Households to open our hearts to God’s Beloved Ones.

Jesus of Nazareth humbled himself to the waters of the River Jordan and the reinterpreted rituals of his cousin John. So, too, we are to humble ourselves to God’s ambassadors to be spiritually prepared for our future ministries.

The River took what was not needed away. The Heavens offered a Spirit like a Dove bestowing blessing. The heavenly Voice spoke affirming identity, status, and belovedness. So, too, God is working through all Creation to bring the Living Christ into redemptive, relational presence with us.

Now that our religious patterns have been disrupted where are we, as individuals, being called to experience spiritual care? Where are you finding spiritual nourishment? When and where are you safe to be vulnerable and open to new blessings?

I believe one of the strange gifts of this “Stay at Home” time is seeing, more clearly, what truly blesses our souls, especially in times of challenge. This is a time to note the comforting habits we miss AND to acknowledge where and how we are currently being restored and blessed.

This week consider where you have found genuine spiritual uplift these past 9-10 months. Where has God blessed you? Maybe, like Jesus, it has been a “wild” place – a place unlike the holy buildings where you expected to find God’s presence in the past?

Amen. Soli Deo Gloria. (Glory to God Alone)

(Note: A somewhat related sermon video will be available on YouTube channel “Kathryn Schreiber” before 1/10/2021)

Special Music “Wade in the Water” Traditional African-American spiritual. Performed by Sweet Honey in the Rock. (Chalice #371)

Prayers of the People, The Lord’s Prayer

We Give Thanks

Offering

This second Sunday of the year, many Christians recall the baptism of Jesus Christ. Let us also pause to remember our baptism through Jesus Christ. All who proclaim Jesus as Christ are connected, eternally. We are part of “The Body of Christ” one of an uncountable number of souls who reside in fellowship throughout all time. What a blessing!

Let us praise God for this everlasting gift. We are “us” because Jesus brought us, in word and action, God’s redeeming love. Hallelujah! Praise God! (also see donation footnote)

We Continue in Hope

Song of Hope “Down to the River to Pray” Written by Philip Lawson. Performed by Alison Krauss and Union Station. 2002. https://youtu.be/swOLCLrqBn8

We Pray

Benediction

God is here in our wilderness time.

God is still speaking –

in breaking clouds and diving doves

proclaiming “Beloved” to all who serve.

Let us journey on in this wild place

filled with a truly Holy Spirit

opening to unpredictable new wonders.

Amen.

(the service is concluded)

Resources:

Online Chalice Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/CH1995

Online New Century Hymnal: https://hymnary.org/hymnal/NCH1995

YouTube Music Videos: search by title AND one of the authors for best results

Worship Resources:

All content prepared and written by Rev. Kathryn M. Schreiber unless attributed to another source.

Online Publishing Date: January 5, 2020.

Donation for Use of Content: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is offered free. However, you may express your gratitude by offering your support – in action or financial gift – to your church or a church you respect. We really need your support right now – volunteers and funds. If you’d like to support the congregation I serve as pastor – Berkeley Chinese Community Church – we’d be most grateful for your support. Please send checks to: BCCC UCC, 2117 Acton Street, Berkeley, CA 94702, Attn: Diane Huie, Treasurer. Thank you!

Living Liturgies: www.inthebiglove.com; Facebook: “Living Liturgies”; YouTube: “Kathryn Schreiber”

“The First Prayer of 2021”

January 1, 2021January 1, 2021inthebiglove Leave a comment

*photo by Edgard Garrido/Reuters; taken in Mexico City*

“The First Prayer of 2021” written by Rev Kathryn M Schreiber

birds sang the sun up

this first morning of 2021

listening to their joy

I found a new sorrow

the collective silence

of all who died last year

what songs are sung

in Heaven today?

do they grieve with us

here on Earth?

Lord, have mercy upon us.

As of 6:12am GMT 1/1/2021 the World Health Organization reported 1,808,041 confirmed deaths due to COVID-19.

in the big love

inclusive, beautiful, honest and life-affirming resources & services for the spiritual journey

Month: January 2021

“Life-Bringing God” • Psalm 147 • Epiphany Call to Transformation through Praise • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

Ash Wednesday DIY Ashes-Making & Ritual • Joel 2:12-13 & Psalm 51:1-12 • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

“The Hope to Which We Are Called” Ephesians 1:15-19 • Epiphany Call to Transformation through Hope • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

“Am I My Brother’s Keeper?” • Genesis 4:9 • Epiphany Call to Social Transformation • Beloved Community Sunday • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

Epiphany 2021

“Blessed in a Wild Place” • Mark 1:4-11 • Epiphany Call to Personal Transformation • Worship Service for In-Home or Remote Group Use

“The First Prayer of 2021”