From Rev. Ben –
This week our celebration will focus on the story of the ascension, the last miracle of Jesus’ earthly ministry. For most Christians, the ascension is understood to be a miracle of power—Jesus leaves the earth to take his place on Heaven’s throne—but in my sermon I will try to see if there is another way to think about the story that is less about dominance and more about mystery.
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View May 16th Celebration online
- Marcia will provide a prelude, Jubilate, arr. Alice Jordan
- I will welcome folks to celebration,
- Kira and Devon Heller will lead us in a call to celebration,
- The opening hymn is “Come Christians, Join to Sing”,
- Debbie Dille will lead us in a prayer for peace,
- Maggie Harmon will read Acts 1:1-11,
- My sermon is called “What the Heck?”,
- For special music, Kim will sing “Sing a New Song Unto the Lord” by Daniel Schutte,
- Talitha will lead us in a pastoral prayer (this is her last bit of pastoral work before she goes on parental leave),
- Bob Zdenek will provide a minute for stewardship,
- Our closing hymn is “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”, and
- I will close the service with a family life video.
Please stay tuned as we roll out our new way of gathering for worship. Starting June 6 we will be doing hybrid in person and online celebrations on Sunday mornings. This means that many of us will be able to join together for outdoor celebration in person, and those who cannot meet in person for whatever reason will still be able to join using a computer, tablet or smart phone. There are still details yet to be worked out (some of which will be dictated by Alameda County’s various rules about wearing masks and gathering), and we’ll do our very best to keep you posted.
The Charge (say together) Go out into the world in peace. Have courage; hold on to what is good. Return no one evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, and help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve God, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.