Image: Huie family (c)2022. Original written content: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber ©2022.

We Gather

“To see a World in a Grain of Sand / And a Heaven in a Wild Flower / Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand / And Eternity in an hour” – William Blake, 19^th century English writer and artist

Prelude (musician) “Once to David’s Royal City”

Pastor’s Welcome and Acknowledgements (pastor) Welcome! Welcome to worship this 2^nd Sunday of Advent. Our Advent-Christmas theme this year is “Holy Wonder.”

No matter who you are… No matter where you are on life’s journey… You are welcome here! Welcome guests.

Through Jesus Christ, we are called together as the Beloved Community. We are blessed by this sacred worship space located on unceded territory of the Lisjan-Ohlone people. We honor the past and face the future in peace with hope.

Liturgist’s Welcome and Acknowledgements (liturgist)

As Pastor Kathryn lights the Altar Votives, let us remember those who are not physically present, but with us in spirit or thought. (pastor lights votives while musician plays)

(liturgist, after votive candles are lit and music concluded, please continue)

Today’s…

• Flowers: Darlene Hamady in memory of Gail Lee. 
• Worship Team: Musician Ian Pong, Liturgist Norman Chong, Advent Wreath TBD, and Pastor Rev. Kathryn Schreiber.

(Advent Wreath lighters/readers come up; liturgist sits down)

Advent Wreath Reading and Candles (Advent Wreath reader/s)

On this Second Sunday of Advent, may we open to Holy Wonder hearing from mid-century environmentalist Rachel Carson:

“What is the value of preserving and strengthening this sense of awe and wonder, this recognition of something beyond the boundaries of human existence?

Is the exploration of the natural world just a pleasant way to pass the golden hours of childhood or is there something deeper? I am sure there is something much deeper, something lasting and significant.

Those who dwell as scientists or laymen among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. Whatever the vexation or concerns of their personal lives, their thoughts can find paths that lead to inner contentment and to renewed excitement in living.

Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is symbolic as well as actual beauty in the migration of the birds, the ebb and flow of the tides, the folded bud ready for the spring.

There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature — the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after the winter.” (rc)

We light the First and Second Candles of Advent – expectant and eager to encounter Holy Wonder.

(Light TWO Advent Candles)

Opening Hymn: “People, Look East” Chalice #142, all verses (musician)

Passing the Peace (all share gestures and words of peace; pastor)

Time for Children “Wow!” Natural wonders reveal God’s magnificence. (pastor)

We Rest in God’s Grace

Prayer and Silence (pastor) Let us shift into silence in God’s presence with this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10.

Be still and know that I am God. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know that I am. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know. (Breathe slowly)

Be still. (Breathe slowly)

Be. (Breathe slowly)

(Breathe in silence) Amen.

Assurance of Grace (pastor) We all have wilderness times. We humans always have. Such was the case of the Hebrew people when the Prophet Isaiah lived. God drew his attention to the desert, specifically, to the amazing plants that live and sometimes BLOOM in such a hostile growing environment.

This Second Week of Advent we follow Isaiah’s lead looking to natural wonders to find assurance of God’s power and faithfulness. May we, too, nurture hope for what is coming. May God grant us the grace to behold Holy Wonder. Amen. (kms)

Special Music (musician) “Greensleeves”

We Listen

Scripture: Isaiah 35:1-2 (version: CEB) Isaiah speaking to his nation:

The desert and the dry land will be glad;
    the wilderness will rejoice and blossom like the crocus.
They will burst into bloom,
    and rejoice with joy and singing.
They will receive the glory of Lebanon,
    the splendor of Carmel and Sharon.
They will see the Lord’s glory,
    the splendor of our God. (ceb)

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

Reflection: “Natural and Spiritual Wonders” (pastor) Finding hope in arid times – witnessing natural wonders, reconnecting with all beings, allowing Holy Wonder to move us, prepare us for God’s MORE…

We Celebrate Holy Communion

Invitation (pastor) Explain the process – all are welcome; publicly safety; elements consumed together.

Gathering All Souls (pastor) Let us gather the great, eternal communion of souls, speaking the names of those not physically present with whom we wish to share this meal… (say names internally and out loud)

Gathering All Beings (pastor) Let us also gather the great, eternal communion of all living beings, our creature siblings, asking their spirits to join us for this sacred meal… (say names internally and out loud)

Communion Hymn: “I Hunger and I Thirst” Chalice #409, all verses (musician)

Distribute Elements (Communion ushers pass out individually wrapped juice cups and crackers)

Prayer of Consecration (pastor) Magnificent, Almighty God, as we come to Your Table today, we make this request: If it pleases You, may these gifts of wheat and grape, full of Your glory, transform us and our world. Amen. (kms)

Sharing the Elements (pastor) Harvested grains and ordinary water and some natural air-born yeast create a living, nourishing thing – a loaf of bread. Harvested grapes and more of those natural air-born yeasts create a living, pleasing thing – a jug of wine.

Jesus Christ is deeply rooted to the natural wonders of this earth. He also understands that “all that is” speaks of God. The loaf, the wine – these new creations from ordinary foods – they are symbols of God’s wondrous power to transform and elevate we earthly creatures.

And so, here in this very place on earth, at this very time of the year, we join Jesus and his disciples, open to Holy Wonder, recalling…

Jesus took the loaf, (lift up bread) thanked God for it, (praise God) broke it, (break the bread) and gave it to the disciples saying:

“Take, eat. This is my body which has been given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

In the same way, after they had eaten, Jesus took the cup, (fill and lift) thanked God for it, (praise God) and gave it to them saying:

“Drink this, all of you. This is my blood of the new covenant which has been poured out for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in remembrance of me.”

On this Advent Sunday, we intentionally share this loaf with…

• our fellow creatures who proclaim The Creator’s vast wonders;
• all on the Advent journey to Christmas, open to Holy Wonder;
• all beings who are hungry, sick, poor, or imprisoned;
• those who will one day call this place home having found a community of faith.

Dear Ones, may we receive the magnificent grace of being released from all that diminishes life. May our joyful souls praise God!  (all eat and drink)

We Pray

Prayer Requests (pastor; all)

Pastoral Prayer (pastor) Amazing God, Parent of Jesus Christ our Friend, Savoir, and Eternal Companion, we want to live fully awake to Your wonders. Draw our attention away from what does not nurture Your Dreams for us. Grant us the curiosity, courage, and compassion to wait for Your Holy Wonders. Amen. (kms)

Prayers of the People, Private Prayer, The Lord’s Prayer (pastor)

Offering Our Praise “Doxology” (musician; all)

We Transition

Announcements (pastor)

• Next Sunday: “Holy Wonder” Advent continues – with Mary!
• Senior Center Tues December 20^th (confirm date)
• Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services this year

Closing Hymn: “Lo, How a Rose er Blooming” Chalice #160, both verses (musician)

Benediction (pastor) A blessing from Brother David Steindl-Rast

May you grow still enough to hear the small noises earth makes in preparing for the long sleep of winter, so that you yourself may grow calm and grounded deep within.

May you grow still enough to hear the trickling of water seeping into the ground, so that your soul may be softened and healed, and guided in its flow.

May you grow still enough to hear the splintering of starlight in the winter sky and the roar at earth’s fiery core.

May you grow still enough to hear the stir of a single snowflake in the air, so that your inner silence may turn into hushed expectation. (dsr)

Dear Ones, open to Holy Wonder! Go forth in peace and hope. Amen.

Postlude (musician) “O Thou Joyful”

The service is concluded.

Worship Resources:

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

(CEB) Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011, Common English Bible.

(ds-r) David Steindl-Rast; line-breaks kms

(mf) Margaret Feinberg, Wonderstruck: Awaken to the Nearness of God. ©2012. (sermon)

(rc) Rachel Carson, The Sense of Wonder. © 1955. Print and 31-min audiobook; line-breaks kms

(wb) William Blake, “Auguries of Innocence.” Source: Poets of the English Language (Viking Press, 1950)

Residency Acknowledgement: This content was written in Huichin Village, unceded territory of the Lisjan- Ohlone people, where I dwell and serve as a local church pastor. Please support indigenous rematriation efforts, the #LandBack movement, and give to Sogorea Te’ Land Trust Soghttps://sogoreate-landtrust.org/ and other non-profits that reform, balance, and heal relationships with our indigenous hosts. Thank you!

Copyright Note: Copyright laws changed in December 2020 when Congress passed the Copyright Alternative in Small-Claims Enforcement Act of 2020 (CASE Act). Please check with your legal counsel as to the appropriate use of licensed materials, especially print and recorded music when sharing content online. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow the publishing requirements of any broadcasting or publishing platforms you use. Protect the rights of content creators. Thank you!

Online Publishing Date: November 29, 2022.

Permission: Permission is not granted to share or distribute this resource beyond your community without additional permission from the author. Please attribute source and observe ethical use of all resources. Follow your platforms’ publishing requirements for all created content especially if publishing online or broadcasting. Thank you!

Donation: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is 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!

For Online Content: Please see Facebook pages: “Berkeley Chinese Community Church” and “Living Liturgies”; as well as my website: www.inthebiglove.com and YouTube channel: “Kathryn Schreiber”

Image & Original written content: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber ©2022.

We Gather

“I’m very concerned that our society is much more interested in information than wonder, in noise rather than silence.” – Rev. Fred Rogers, aka “Mister Rogers”

Prelude (musician)

Pastor’s Welcome and Acknowledgements (pastor) Welcome! Welcome to worship this 1^st Sunday of Advent. Our Advent-Christmas theme this year is “Holy Wonder.”

No matter who you are… No matter where you are on life’s journey… You are welcome here! Welcome guests.

Through Jesus Christ, we are called together as the Beloved Community. We are blessed by this sacred worship space located on unceded territory of the Lisjan-Ohlone people. We honor the past and face the future in peace with hope.

Liturgist’s Welcome and Acknowledgements (liturgist)

As Pastor Kathryn lights the Altar Votives, let us remember those who are not physically present, but with us in spirit or thought. (pastor lights votives while musician plays.)

(Liturgist, after candles are lit and music concluded, please continue)

Today’s…

• Flowers: Jane Mah & Norman Chong in honor of their daughter Jullian.
• Worship Team: Musician Ian Pong, Liturgist Darlene Hamady, Advent Wreath Cedric & Carlton Young, and Pastor Rev. Kathryn Schreiber.

(Advent Wreath lighters/readers come up; liturgist sits down)

Advent Wreath Reading and Candles (Advent Wreath reader/s)

On this First Sunday of Advent, may we open to Holy Wonder listening to this prayer by Rev. Ted Loder:

“Let Wonder Have Its Way with Me”

O God, Your gracious Spirit

moves over the mysteries of living and dying

and is strangely present to me

   in the falling leaves,

      the call of the wild geese,

         a child’s birth,

            the light in a friend’s eyes,

               the sudden lifting of the heart,

                  and the deep longing which brings me to You now.

Make me aware of Your presence

that wonder may have its way with me,

   my passion be released,

      my confidence renewed in the depths of Your holiness

until, for a moment,

my longing for You be fulfilled

and I know I am really free

   to share bread and intimacy,

      to laugh and exchange mercy,

         to be at ease in my struggles,

            bold in my loving,

               brave in facing down my terror,

                  hopeful in the rising music of Your kingdom,

                     joyful in my living,

                       and graceful in my life becoming

                          a song of praise ever sung to You. Amen. (tl)

We light the First Candle of Advent – expectant and eager to encounter Holy Wonder.

(Light ONE Advent Candle)

Opening Hymn: “Lift Up Your Heads, O Mighty Gates” Chalice #129, all verses (musician; pastor)

Passing the Peace (all share gestures and words of peace; pastor)

Time for Children “Welcoming Wonder” Seeing the holidays through a child’s eye. (pastor)

We Rest in God’s Grace

Prayer and Silence (pastor) Let us shift into silence in God’s presence with this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10.

Be still and know that I am God. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know that I am. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know. (Breathe slowly)

Be still. (Breathe slowly)

Be. (Breathe slowly)

(Breathe in silence) Amen.

Assurance of Grace (pastor) Beloved “Mister Rogers” – Rev. Fred Rogers – an ordained Presbyterian minister commented: “I’m very concerned that our society is much more interested in information than wonder, in noise rather than silence.” This Advent, with God’s help, we will attempt to shift from information to being open to Holy Wonder.

When we are awake and hopeful we are more likely to perceive God’s transforming presence. Jesus told his disciples to expect the unexpected – for God’s timeline and God’s plans will not be revealed to us in advance.

May God grant us the grace to trust the unknown, leaning into the goodness of God and the wideness of Holy Compassion. Amen. (kms)

Special Music (musician)

We Listen

Scripture: Mark 13:33-37 (version: CEB) Jesus is speaking to his disciples:

“Watch out! Stay alert! You don’t know when the time is coming. It is as if someone took a trip, left the household behind, and put the servants in charge, giving each one a job to do, and told the doorkeeper to stay alert. Therefore, stay alert! You don’t know when the head of the household will come, whether in the evening or at midnight, or when the rooster crows in the early morning or at daybreak. Don’t let him show up when you weren’t expecting and find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to all: Stay alert!” (ceb)

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

Reflection: “Holy Wonder: Hopeful Vulnerability” (pastor) We always celebrate Christmas on December 25^th, but no created being on earth or in heaven knows when The Living Christ will arrive. Being open to Holy Wonder is expecting to be surprised.

Reflection Hymn: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” Chalice #119, all verses (musician, pastor)

We Pray

Prayer Requests (pastor; all)

Pastoral Prayer (pastor) Wondrous God, sometimes we are weary. Sometimes our faith wears thin and we nod in our steadfast commitment to You. On this first Sunday of Advent, may we hear the resounding voice of Christ telling us to “Wake Up!” “Stay Alert!” We really do want to believe You are about to do something amazing. Ever Good God, light a fire of hope in us when the night is long and the sky is dark. Call us toward You into Holy Wonder that we might be ready when You are. Amen. (kms)

Prayers of the People, Private Prayer, The Lord’s Prayer (pastor)

Offering Our Praise “Doxology” (musician; all)

We Transition

Announcements (pastor)

• This Saturday: Church Retreat
• Next Sunday: “Holy Wonder” Advent continues!
• Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services this year

Sung Blessing: “Go in Peace” Chalice #445 (sing 2x’s) (musician)

Benediction (pastor) Remember the enchanting magic of the holiday season when wonder came easily? May God bless all of us with a second innocence that allows us to believe in Jesus Christ’s rebirth among us in ways and means and at times and places we cannot even imagine! Dear Ones, let us go forth with hope and curiosity – open to Holy Wonder. Peace be with you! Amen.

Postlude (musician)

The service is concluded.

Worship Resources:

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

(tl) Ted Loder, Guerrillas of Grace © 1984, LuraMedia. Dear Rev Loder entered Heaven in 2021. His books remain a beautiful collection of dynamic, honest Christian faith. Peace be upon him and all who carry him in their hearts.

(CEB) Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011, Common English Bible.

Residency Acknowledgement: This content was written in Huichin Village, unceded territory of the Lisjan- Ohlone people, where I dwell and serve as a local church pastor. Please support indigenous rematriation efforts, the #LandBack movement, and give to Sogorea Te’ Land Trust Soghttps://sogoreate-landtrust.org/ and other non-profits that reform, balance, and heal relationships with our indigenous hosts. Thank you!

Copyright Note: Copyright laws changed in December 2020 when Congress passed the Copyright Alternative in Small-Claims Enforcement Act of 2020 (CASE Act). Please check with your legal counsel as to the appropriate use of licensed materials, especially print and recorded music when sharing content online. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow the publishing requirements of any broadcasting or publishing platforms you use. Protect the rights of content creators. Thank you!

Online Publishing Date: November 22, 2022.

Permission: Permission is not granted to share or distribute this resource beyond your community without additional permission from the author. Please attribute source and observe ethical use of all resources. Follow your platforms’ publishing requirements for all created content especially if publishing online or broadcasting. Thank you!

Donation: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is 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!

For Online Content: Please see Facebook pages: “Berkeley Chinese Community Church” and “Living Liturgies”; as well as my website: www.inthebiglove.com and YouTube channel: “Kathryn Schreiber”

images & original written content: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber ©2022.

Jesus didn’t say a word about Advent Candles but he did have a lot to say about being open to Holy Wonder. The practice of playing with color is a lovely spiritual practice. This year, we’re making very unique Advent Candles – four — one for each Sunday before Christmas. Please scroll down for posts about Holy Wonder weekly themes.

This is a great project for folks of all ages, especially on Thanksgiving weekend. We light the First Advent Candle on Sunday, November 27, 2022. These precious candles also make wonderful Christmas gifts. Enjoy!

Supplies Needed

4 Glass Container Candles: matching tall votive wax candles OR smaller glass containers with battery or wax candles. (photo: baby food jars). Remove all labels; clean the glass.

Art supplies:

• various colors of tissue paper, used works very well. If you’re traditional use mostly purples, blues, dark pinks.
• white school glue
• pourable water
• small bowl for glue/water mixture
• brush/es – a flat end with flexible bristles works best * rags*
• OPTIONAL: “practice” glass jars

Preparation

• Select a flat workspace protective surface due to potential glue-water drips.
• Tear tissue into pieces of all sizes and shapes – tiny to bigger. Note: ragged edges look the best (IMHO).

• Squirt glue into bowl – not a lot. Using brush, gently stir in water until glue is still thick, but easy to paint with.

Create!

If you like, practice on jars first to get a feel for the technique.

• Paint some glue-water on the glass and then place a bit of torn tissue paper into the sticky surface.

• Use the brush to smooth out the paper and attach it. Enjoy listening to what color, what shape, wants to go where. Try overlapping papers. Have fun!
• Rotate the candle to create decoration on all sides, as you wish. The decoration may be the same or different. Follow your intuition.

• If you REALLY don’t like what you’ve done, wet the candle exterior and scrape off decorations and begin again.
• If you’re taking a break, leave your brush in water (short break) or completely rise out brush (long break).
• Place Candles in a safe place to try. If your decoration comes to the bottom, be sure to place on top of a non-stick surface to dry.
• Enjoy your beautiful candles!

Clean Up

• Seal the glue container.
• Transfer leftover glue-water to sealable container for reuse.
• Clean the brush, bowl, and water container.
• Store loose paper bits and bigger pieces of paper.

More!

Follow “Living Liturgies” page on FB for weekly posts as we build our household and sanctuary Advent Wreaths – a new candle each week! Also, on “Living Liturgies” FB page or my website www.inthebiglove look for weekly worship/devotional content about Holy Wonder. God bless you and yours as we prepare to encounter Holy Wonder and the grace of the rebirth of Christ in us, our communities, and throughout the cosmos.

Residency Acknowledgement: This content was written in Huichin Village, unceded territory of the Lisjan- Ohlone people, where I dwell and serve as a local church pastor. Please support indigenous rematriation efforts, the #LandBack movement, and give to Sogorea Te’ Land Trust Soghttps://sogoreate-landtrust.org/ and other non-profits that reform, balance, and heal relationships with our indigenous hosts. Thank you!

Online Publishing Date: November 16, 2022.

Permission: Permission is not granted to share or distribute this resource beyond your community without additional permission from the author. Please attribute source and observe ethical use of all resources. Follow your platforms’ publishing requirements for all created content especially if publishing online or broadcasting. Thank you!

Donation: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is 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!

For Online Content: Please see Facebook pages: “Berkeley Chinese Community Church” and “Living Liturgies”; as well as my website: www.inthebiglove.com and YouTube channel: “Kathryn Schreiber”

Image & Original written content: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber ©2022.

Public Health Safety Note: As of November 6, 2022, Sunday morning worship services are inside in the Sanctuary. Please follow COVID/flu-safe protocols. Thank you!

We Gather

“Only the person who gives thanks for little things receives the big things. We prevent God from giving us the great spiritual gifts God has in store for us, because we do not give thanks for daily gifts.” — Dietrich Bonhoeffer, 20^th century German Christian Theologian

Prelude (musician)

Welcome and Acknowledgements (pastor) Welcome! No matter who you are… No matter where you are on life’s journey… You are welcome here! Welcome guests.

Through Jesus Christ, we are called together as the Beloved Community. We are blessed by this sacred worship space located on unceded territory of the Lisjan-Ohlone people. We honor the past and face the future in peace with hope.

Flowers For the Glory of God

Worship Team Musician Ian Pong, Liturgist Darlene Hamady, Pastor Rev. Kathryn Schreiber

Call to Worship (liturgist; Psalm 100 version: LTP) “A perfect dance of Thanksgiving. God’s people gather from the whole earth to enter the temple gates in procession and praise the God who is Lasting Love.”

A Psalm of Thanksgiving:

Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth,

serve the Lord with gladness,

enter God’s presence with joy!

Know that the Lord is God,

our maker to whom we belong,

our shepherd, and we the flock.

Enter the temple gates,

the courtyard with thanks and praise;

give thanks and bless God’s name.

Indeed the Lord is good!

God’s love is forever,

faithful from age to age. Amen. (ltp)

As Pastor Kathryn lights the Christ Candle and Altar Votives, let us remember those who are not physically present, but with us in spirit or thought.

Light The Christ Candle and Altar Votives (pastor)

Votive Lighting Music (musician)

Opening Hymn: “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” Chalice #16 (musician)

Passing the Peace (all share gestures and words of peace; pastor)

Time for Children “Holiday Candles” This is the last Sunday for this Christ Candle. Next week we begin lighting Advent Candles. When will we light the NEW Christ Candle?

We Rest in God’s Grace

Prayer and Silence (pastor) Let us shift into silence in God’s presence with this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10.

Be still and know that I am God. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know that I am. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know. (Breathe slowly)

Be still. (Breathe slowly)

Be. (Breathe slowly)

(Breathe in silence) Amen.

Assurance of Grace (pastor) Gratitude is both an intentional practice and a spontaneous grace – a gift freely given by God. Choosing to be grateful, to give thanks for “this and that,” changes how we engage with life and open to God.

German theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, writes: “Only the person who gives thanks for little things receives the big things. We prevent God from giving us the great spiritual gifts God has in store for us because we do not give thanks for daily gifts.”

Let us be thankful for little things all the time. Let us practice gratitude hoping God will give us spiritual gifts we cannot now imagine. Amen. (kms)

Special Music (musician)

We Listen

Scripture: Philippians 4:4-9 (version: NRSV) St Paul’s advice to “all the saints in Jesus Christ who are in Philippi” continues to guide us as we grow in faith.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. (nrsv)

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

Cultivating Peace Practice: Gratitude “Thank You for This and That” (pastor) The Way of Gratitude – thoughts and practices this Sunday before Thanksgiving.

Reflection Hymn: “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Chalice #86 (musician)

We Pray

Prayer Requests (pastor; all)

Pastoral Prayer (pastor) Royal Christ, on this day, globally, we celebrate You as our Sovereign. Next Sunday, we’ll begin waiting, again, for You to be born among us. Thank You for this annual cycle of knowing and loving You!

As we prepare for Thanksgiving festivities may we not forget all our blessings are rooted in divine generosity. Call forth from our mouths appreciation for our good fortune while opening our consciousnesses to witnessing gifts everywhere.

We who enjoy many luxuries – more than enough love, or more than enough health, or more than enough goodwill, or more than enough wealth – touch our hearts with a joyful desire to share what You have abundantly given to us. Grant us the sweet hunger to express compassion as You did while here on earth.

We praise You, Royal Christ, Font of All Blessings! Amen. (kms)

Prayers of the People, Private Prayer, The Lord’s Prayer (pastor)

Offering Our Pledges (pastor) Almighty God, You have guided us through massive challenges and change the past few years. You are still guiding us forward, though we sometimes find it hard to hear Your voice. We pledge to keep listening, and trusting Your faithfulness. Lasting Love, today we offer our pledged prayers, goodwill, talents, and financial gifts to You for Your purposes. We return to You what You first gave us. Bless these offerings and use them to strengthen Christ’s Church, especially our ministry at BCCC. Amen. (kms)

Offering Our Praise “Doxology” (musician; all)

We Transition

Announcements (pastor)

• Next Sunday: “Holy Wonder” Advent begins; invite guests!
• Church Retreat: Sat Dec 3, 10am to 2pm at BCCC

Sung Blessing: “Go in Peace” Chalice #445 (sing 2x’s) (musician)

Benediction (pastor) Please place your hand on your heart and ask God to call a special gratitude into awareness. (pause) This is but one of millions of blessings God offers us. Let us remember these blessings when our spirits stray, for “Indeed the Lord is good! God’s love is forever, faithful from age to age.”

Peace upon you and those you will gather with this week. In the name of our Sovereign, our Beloved Jesus Christ. Amen.

Postlude (musician)

The service is concluded.

Worship Resources:

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

(LTP) Liturgical Training Publications. Copyright ©1995, Archdioceses of Chicago.

(NRSV) New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Residency Acknowledgement: This content was written in Huichin Village, unceded territory of the Lisjan- Ohlone people, where I dwell and serve as a local church pastor. Please support indigenous rematriation efforts, the #LandBack movement, and give to Sogorea Te’ Land Trust Soghttps://sogoreate-landtrust.org/ and other non-profits that reform, balance, and heal relationships with our indigenous hosts. Thank you!

Copyright Note: Copyright laws changed in December 2020 when Congress passed the Copyright Alternative in Small-Claims Enforcement Act of 2020 (CASE Act). Please check with your legal counsel as to the appropriate use of licensed materials, especially print and recorded music when sharing content online. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow the publishing requirements of any broadcasting or publishing platforms you use. Protect the rights of content creators. Thank you!

Online Publishing Date: November 16, 2022.

Permission: Permission is not granted to share or distribute this resource beyond your community without additional permission from the author. Please attribute source and observe ethical use of all resources. Follow your platforms’ publishing requirements for all created content especially if publishing online or broadcasting. Thank you!

Donation: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is 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!

For Online Content: Please see Facebook pages: “Berkeley Chinese Community Church” and “Living Liturgies”; as well as my website: www.inthebiglove.com and YouTube channel: “Kathryn Schreiber”

Image: Andrei Rublev, “Holy Trinity Icon” 15^th century based on Genesis 18:1-8. Original written content: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber ©2022.

Public Health Safety Note: As of November 6, 2022, Sunday morning worship services are inside in the Sanctuary. Please follow COVID/flu-safe protocols. Thank you!

We Gather

“Hospitality means primarily the creation of free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend instead of an enemy. Hospitality is not to change people, but to offer them space where change can take place. It is not to bring men and women over to our side, but to offer freedom not disturbed by dividing lines.” – Henri J.M. Nouwen, 20th-century Christian pastor and theologian

Prelude (musician)

Welcome and Acknowledgements (pastor) Welcome! No matter who you are… No matter where you are on life’s journey… You are welcome here! Welcome guests.

Through Jesus Christ, we are called together as the Beloved Community. We are blessed by this sacred worship space located on unceded territory of the Lisjan-Ohlone people. We honor the past and face the future in peace with hope.

Honoring our Veterans

Flowers Pastor Kathryn Schreiber in Thanksgiving for BCCC

Worship Team Musician Vicky Jennings, Liturgist Darlene Hamady, Pastor Rev. Kathryn Schreiber

Call to Worship (liturgist)

Welcome! Welcome to this House of God open to everyone!

Welcome! Welcome to this Community of Faith, Hope, and Love!

Welcome! Welcome to this Space of Grace where our lives are changed!

We gather in the presence of God the Creator, Christ, and Holy Spirit.

Welcome! Welcome! Welcome! Amen. (kms)

As Pastor Kathryn lights the Christ Candle and Altar Votives, let us remember those who are not physically present, but with us in spirit or thought. Amen.

Light The Christ Candle and Altar Votives (pastor)

Votive Lighting Music (musician)

Opening Hymn: “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” Chalice #560 (musician)

Passing the Peace (all share gestures and words of peace; pastor)

Time for Children “Greetings” What actions and words express a warm welcome?

We Rest in God’s Grace

Prayer and Silence (pastor) Let us shift into silence in God’s presence with this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10.

Be still and know that I am God. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know that I am. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know. (Breathe slowly)

Be still. (Breathe slowly)

Be. (Breathe slowly)

(Breathe in silence) Amen.

Assurance of Grace (pastor) Gestures matter. Offering a weary traveler food and drink is kind. Offering that same tired visitor a fine meal may become a holy encounter. Christian scripture tells us: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2)

God comes into our lives in many ways. The grace of divine encounter often happens when we least expect it – when we are selflessly loving others. Let us be gracious and very generous in our hospitality. Amen. (kms)

Special Music (musician)

We Listen

Scripture: Genesis 18:1-8 (New Revised Standard Version) This beloved story about Abraham and Sarah offering hospitality to fellow travelers continues to guide Jews and Christians in the sacred practice of welcoming strangers.

The LORD appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as Abraham sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day. Abraham looked up and saw three men standing near him.

When Abraham saw them, he ran from the tent entrance to meet them, and bowed down to the ground. 

Abraham said, “My lord, if I find favor with you, do not pass by your servant. Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. Let me bring a little bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.”

So they (the three men) said, “Do as you have said.”

And Abraham hastened into the tent to Sarah, and said, “Make ready quickly three measures of choice flour, knead it, and make cakes.”

Abraham ran to the herd, and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to the servant, who hastened to prepare it. Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before the guests; and Abraham stood by them under the tree while they ate.

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

Reflection: “Welcomed” (pastor) On our second Sunday of the 2022 Stewardship Season we reflect upon welcoming gestures of hospitality.

Reflection Hymn: “The Gift of Love” Chalice #526 (musician)

We Pray

Prayer Requests (pastor; all)

Pastoral Prayer (pastor) O Compassionate God, as much as we believe or sense Your love for us, we need to experience the warmth and welcome of real human beings. You, Source of all Life and Love, have designed us to be social beings. We need to give and receive human kindness to be whole.

O Eternal Christ, as we renew our efforts to grow Your Church, please increase in our genuine hospitality toward each other – friends we’ve known for years and friends we’ve just met.  May we see in each other Your blessed presence and be delighted. Amen.

Prayers of the People, Private Prayer, The Lord’s Prayer (pastor)

Offering of Praise “Doxology” (musician; all)

We Transition

Announcements (pastor)

• 2023 Pledge Cards
• November Senior Center: this Tuesday
• Next Sunday: Thanksgiving Sunday; Dedication of Pledges

Sung Blessing: “Go in Peace” Chalice #445 (sing 2x’s) (musician)

Benediction (pastor) Dear Ones, we have no idea who we might be entertaining when we welcome an unknown person. May dear St Abraham and St Sarah remind us to open our hearts and share our gifts – for we might be hosting a divine presence.

Let us leave this place with curiosity, hope, gratitude, and great generosity. In the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Amen.

Postlude (musician)

The service is concluded.

Worship Resources:

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

 (NRSV) New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Residency Acknowledgement: This content was written in Huichin Village, unceded territory of the Lisjan- Ohlone people, where I dwell and serve as a local church pastor. Please support indigenous rematriation efforts, the #LandBack movement, and give to Sogorea Te’ Land Trust Soghttps://sogoreate-landtrust.org/ and other non-profits that reform, balance, and heal relationships with our indigenous hosts. Thank you!

Copyright Note: Copyright laws changed in December 2020 when Congress passed the Copyright Alternative in Small-Claims Enforcement Act of 2020 (CASE Act). Please check with your legal counsel as to the appropriate use of licensed materials, especially print and recorded music when sharing content online. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow the publishing requirements of any broadcasting or publishing platforms you use. Protect the rights of content creators. Thank you!

Online Publishing Date: November 10, 2022.

Permission: Permission is not granted to share or distribute this resource beyond your community without additional permission from the author. Please attribute source and observe ethical use of all resources. Follow your platforms’ publishing requirements for all created content especially if publishing online or broadcasting. Thank you!

Donation: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is 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!

For Online Content: Please see Facebook pages: “Berkeley Chinese Community Church” and “Living Liturgies”; as well as my website: www.inthebiglove.com and YouTube channel: “Kathryn Schreiber”

Photo: (c) Kathryn M Schreiber, 2019. Original Content: (c) Kathryn M Schreiber, 2022.

Pulling moments from classic Advent-Christmas readings, this series invites us to exercise our “wonder” muscles that we might be primed to engage in Holy Wonder. During hard times our spiritual ancestors remained open to Holy Wonder. May we do so, too!

Here’s an overview to inspire. As a busy local church pastor, I’m realistic about what I might or might not get done in time to share with you. Original content will post on the Tuesday before the Sunday featured. I’m hoping to post the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services at least a week out. I’m hoping to create a few other goodies, but not quite sure that will happen. In advance, thank you for following and for your patience! (Note: I’ve used the Common English Bible, adapted for inclusivity.)

I am sharing with you what my congregation has paid me to create. We would benefit from your financial support. Though we are unable to receive electronic giving at this time, you are most welcome to send an old-school check to: Berkeley Chinese Community Church, UCC. 2117 Acton Street. Berkeley, CA 94702. In the memo area on the check, please write “Living Liturgies.” Thank you VERY VERY MUCH!

1^st Sunday of Advent. “Holy Wonder: Hopeful Vulnerability” Scripture: Mark 13:33-37. We always celebrate Christmas on December 25^th, but no being on earth or in heaven – except God – knows when The Living Christ will arrive. Being open to Holy Wonder is preparing to be surprised.

Jesus speaking to his disciples:

“Watch out! Stay alert! You don’t know when the time is coming. It is as if someone took a trip, left the household behind, and put the servants in charge, giving each one a job to do, and told the doorkeeper to stay alert. Therefore, stay alert! You don’t know when the head of the household will come, whether in the evening or at midnight, or when the rooster crows in the early morning or at daybreak. Don’t let him show up when you weren’t expecting and find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to all: Stay alert!”

2^nd Sunday of Advent. “Holy Wonder: Natural Solidarity” Scripture: Isaiah 35:1-2. Holy Communion. A natural wonder is a rare, though known, spectacular event. Being open to Holy Wonder includes hope in God’s care throughout the cosmos.

Isaiah speaking to his nation:

The desert and the dry land will be glad;
    the wilderness will rejoice and blossom like the crocus.
They will burst into bloom,
    and rejoice with joy and singing.
They will receive the glory of Lebanon,
    the splendor of Carmel and Sharon.
They will see the Lord’s glory,
    the splendor of our God.

3^rd Sunday of Advent. “Holy Wonder: Communal Healing” Scripture: Luke 1:50-55. God’s dream for a just human community is foundational. Being open to Holy Wonder is having faith in divine justice before it occurs.

Mary, speaking to Elizabeth:

God shows mercy to everyone,
        from one generation to the next,
        who honors God.
God has shown strength with God’s arm.
    God has scattered those with arrogant thoughts and proud inclinations.
God has pulled the powerful down from their thrones
        and lifted up the lowly.
God has filled the hungry with good things
    and sent the rich away empty-handed.
God has come to the aid of servant Israel,
        remembering divine mercy,

just as God promised to our ancestors,
        to Abraham and Sarah, and to their descendants forever.”

4^th Sunday of Advent. “Holy Wonder: Spiritual Courage” Scripture: Matthew 1:18-21. Righteous Joseph deeply believed in God’s in-breaking wisdom. Being open to Holy Wonder is risking personal, social, even religious comfort to serve God.

An angel speaks to Joseph:

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ took place. When Mary his mother was engaged to Joseph, before they were married, she became pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her husband, was a righteous man. Because he didn’t want to humiliate her, he decided to call off their engagement quietly. As he was thinking about this, an angel from the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because the child she carries was conceived by the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you will call him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

Christmas Eve. “Holy Wonder: God’s Here!” Scripture: Luke 2:1-7 and Isaiah 9:6-7. Holy Communion. God chose to become extremely vulnerable to be with us. Being open to Holy Wonder is humbling ourselves to God’s incomprehensible love for us.

In those days Caesar Augustus declared that everyone throughout the empire should be enrolled in the tax lists. This first enrollment occurred when Quirinius governed Syria. Everyone went to their own cities to be enrolled. Since Joseph belonged to David’s house and family line, he went up from the city of Nazareth in Galilee to David’s city, called Bethlehem, in Judea. He went to be enrolled together with Mary, who was promised to him in marriage and who was pregnant. While they were there, the time came for Mary to have her baby. She gave birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the guestroom.

AND

A child is born to us, a son is given to us,
    and authority will be on his shoulders.
    He will be named
    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
    Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
There will be vast authority and endless peace
    for David’s throne and for his kingdom,
    establishing and sustaining it
    with justice and righteousness
    now and forever.

The zeal of the Lord of heavenly forces will do this.

Christmas Day. “Holy Wonder: Angels!” Scripture: Luke 1:26-35, Matthew 1:18-21; Luke 2:8-14. Pop–Up/Readers Christmas Pageant with “angel” carols. A Reader’s Script replaces typical service content. Narrative arc: Angel Gabriel speaks to Mary Luke 1:26-35; an angel speaks to Joseph Matthew 1:18-21 (yes, same as above); and a host of Angels speak to Shepherds Luke 2:8-14.

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Image: Vincent Van Gogh’s drawing “Interior with Ten Figures” 1980. Original written content: Rev. Kathryn M Schreiber ©2022.

Public Health Safety Note: November 6, 2022 we return to Sunday morning worship services inside in the Sanctuary. Please follow COVID/flu-safe protocols. Thank you!

We Gather

“We are made for goodness. We are made for love. We are made for friendliness. We are made for togetherness. We are made for all of the beautiful things that you and I know. We are made to tell the world that there are no outsiders. All are welcome: black, white, red, yellow, rich, poor, educated, not educated, male, female, gay, straight, all, all, all. We all belong to this family, this human family, God’s family.” – Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Prelude (musician)

Welcome and Acknowledgements (pastor) Welcome! No matter who you are… No matter where you are on life’s journey… You are welcome here! Welcome guests.

Through Jesus Christ, we are called together as the Beloved Community. We are blessed by this sacred worship space located on unceded territory of the Lisjan-Ohlone people. We honor the past and face the future in peace with hope.

Flowers TBD

Worship Team Musician Ian Pong, Liturgist TBD, Pastor Rev. Kathryn Schreiber

Call to Worship (liturgist) Everyone is welcome at God’s Table. There is plenty of room for each and every person! We practice the United Church of Christ’s radical welcome: No matter who we are, no matter where we are on life’s journey, everyone is welcome here at Berkeley Chinese Community Church! May our gathering today, back in our beloved sanctuary, be a service of deep and wide welcome. Amen. (kms)

As Pastor Kathryn lights the Christ Candle and Altar Votives, let us remember those who are not physically present, but with us in spirit or thought. Amen.

Light The Christ Candle and Altar Votives (pastor)

Votive Lighting Music (musician)

Opening Hymn: “Gather Us In” Chalice #284 (musician)

Passing the Peace (all share gestures and words of peace; pastor)

Time for Children “Included” Have you ever been made to feel unwelcome? Jesus welcomes EVERYONE. How can we be like Jesus?

We Rest in God’s Grace

Prayer and Silence (pastor) Let us shift into silence in God’s presence with this simple prayer based on Psalm 46:10.

Be still and know that I am God. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know that I am. (Breathe slowly)

Be still and know. (Breathe slowly)

Be still. (Breathe slowly)

Be. (Breathe slowly)

(Breathe in silence) Amen.

Assurance of Grace (pastor) There is something a bit odd about us humans: we quickly create oppositional sides. Such fast sorting is helpful when in immediate danger, but is usually very harmful. Whenever we label other human beings as “enemy” we break God’s heart wounding the promise of blessed human community. Jesus modeled welcoming everyone honoring our universal, shared human dignity.

On this Sunday before Election Day, amid loud calls to mistrust each other, let us hold fast to Jesus’ practice of welcoming everyone while honoring real differences. May our practice of welcoming those we’ve been taught to reject lead to healing. As we offer respect for others, especially when it is hard, we create the future we desire for our children. Amen. (kms)

Special Music (musician)

We Listen

Scripture: Luke 14:15-24 (version: Common English Bible) Jesus tells this story while dining with Pharisees, Jewish scholars who hold fast to Torah law. Jesus speaks, saying:

A certain man hosted a large dinner and invited many people. When it was time for the dinner to begin, the master sent his servant to tell the invited guests, “Come! The dinner is now ready.”

One by one, they all began to make excuses. The first one told the servant, ”I bought a farm and must go and see it. Please excuse me.” Another said, “I bought five teams of oxen, and I’m going to check on them. Please excuse me.” Another said, “I just got married, so I can’t come.”

When the servant returned, he reported these excuses to his master. The master of the house became angry and said to his servant, “Go quickly to the city’s streets, the busy ones and the side streets, and bring the poor, crippled, blind, and lame.”

The servant said, “Master, your instructions have been followed and there is still room.”

The master said to the servant, “Go to the highways and back alleys and urge people to come in so that my house will be filled. I tell you, not one of those who were invited will taste my dinner.”

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

Reflection: “Welcome!” (pastor) As we begin our Stewardship Season we reflect upon Jesus’s practice of radical welcome, sharing a meal with the most unlikely dinner guests.

We Celebrate Holy Communion

Invitation (pastor; explain about process – all are welcome; publicly safety; elements consumed together)

Gathering All Souls (pastor) Let us gather the great, eternal communion of souls, speaking the names of those not physically present with whom we wish to share this meal… (say names internally or out loud)

Gathering The Unwelcome (pastor) Let us also ask: “With whom do I NOT want to share Christ’s Table?” (group or individual) Who scares me? Who’s hurt me? Whom have I harmed? If it feels genuine, please extend welcome to someone or a group with whom it feels uncomfortable sharing this meal… (say names internally or out loud)

Communion Hymn: “I’m Gonna Eat at the Welcome Table” Chalice #424 (verses 1-4) (musician)

Distribute Elements (Communion ushers pass out individually wrapped juice cups and crackers)

Prayer of Consecration (pastor) Inviting God, we humble ourselves grateful for what You will give us. May this meal nourish whatever needs nourishing that our church might grow according to Your joy and desire. Amen. (kms)

Sharing the Elements (pastor) Jesus often broke bread with people others told him he should not dine with. This wasn’t so much due social prejudices, but due to long-standing religious mandates to “stay away from bad people.” Jesus understood how these morally enforced segregations created spiritual suffering among everyone.

At his Last Supper with his dearest followers he placed on his right “The Beloved Disciple” and on his left “The Betraying Disciple.” Understanding that all human beings have weakness and strengths, Jesus Christ welcomed everyone, just as they were, to God’s Table. By overturning the dining restrictions given to Moses, Jesus Christ invokes the healing power of sharing food and drink. Our beloved ritual of Holy Communion is an offering of sustenance and healing for all who partake.

Jesus took the loaf, (lift up bread), thanked God for it, (praise God), broke it, (break the bread), and gave it to the disciples saying: “Take, eat. This is my body which has been given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

In the same way, after they had eaten, Jesus took the cup, (fill and lift), thanked God for it, (praise God), And gave it to them saying: “Drink this, all of you. This is my blood of the new covenant which has been poured out for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in remembrance of me.”

On this Sunday, days before a contentious Election Day, we intentionally share this loaf with…

• those who are in need of actual food;
• those who are hungry for social welcome;
• those who see in us a foe;
• those we perceive to be our opponents;
• and those who will one day call this place home having found a truly welcoming community of faith.

Dear Ones, may we receive the magnificent grace of being fully welcomed by God as we receive these blessed gifts. (all eat and drink)

We Pray

Prayer of Thanksgiving for Holy Communion (pastor; spontaneous)

Prayer Requests (pastor; all)

Pastoral Prayer (pastor) O God, You who know the deepest hungers of our souls and the darkest wounds of our psyches, we are eternally grateful for Christ’s embodiment of Divine Welcome. Continue to heal us as we strive to offer hope and kindness to others. Amen.

Prayers of the People, Private Prayer, The Lord’s Prayer (pastor)

Offering of Praise “Doxology” (musician; all)

We Transition

Announcements (pastor)

• Council Meeting (zoom) Wednesday night
• Next Sunday: Second Sunday of Stewardship, more on Welcoming

Sung Blessing: “Go in Peace” Chalice #445 (sing 2x’s) (musician)

Benediction (pastor) May the Way of Welcome embodied in Jesus Christ be our practice. May we offer to others what we would most like to receive – genuine respect and courtesy, mercy and goodwill. Let us go forth in peace with brave kindness. Amen.

Postlude (musician)

The service is concluded.

Worship Resources:

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

(CEB) Common English Bible copyright © 2011, Common English Bible.

Residency Acknowledgement: This content was written in Huichin Village, unceded territory of the Lisjan- Ohlone people, where I dwell and serve as a local church pastor. Please support indigenous rematriation efforts, the #LandBack movement, and give to Sogorea Te’ Land Trust Soghttps://sogoreate-landtrust.org/ and other non-profits that reform, balance, and heal relationships with our indigenous hosts. Thank you!

Copyright Note: Copyright laws changed in December 2020 when Congress passed the Copyright Alternative in Small-Claims Enforcement Act of 2020 (CASE Act). Please check with your legal counsel as to the appropriate use of licensed materials, especially print and recorded music when sharing content online. Please observe ethical use of resources and follow the publishing requirements of any broadcasting or publishing platforms you use. Protect the rights of content creators. Thank you!

Online Publishing Date: November 1, 2022 – All Saints Day.

Permission: Permission is not granted to share or distribute this resource beyond your community without additional permission from the author. Please attribute source and observe ethical use of all resources. Follow your platforms’ publishing requirements for all created content especially if publishing online or broadcasting. Thank you!

Donation: Due to the current coronavirus pandemic this content is 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!For Online Content: Please see Facebook pages: “Berkeley Chinese Community Church” and “Living Liturgies”; as well as my website: www.inthebiglove.com and YouTube channel: “Kathryn Schreiber”