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GATHERING, LENT/ EASTER 2017Contents – Ash Wednesday to the Last Sunday of Easter, Year A

March 1 – Ash Wednesday..............................................................................................2March 5 – Lent 1.............................................................................................................4March 12 – Lent 2...........................................................................................................6March 19 – Lent 3...........................................................................................................8March 26 – Lent 4.........................................................................................................10April 2 – Lent 5..............................................................................................................12April 9 – Palm/Passion Sunday......................................................................................14April 13 – Maundy Thursday..........................................................................................16April 14 – Good Friday...................................................................................................18April 16 – Easter Sunday...............................................................................................20April 23 – Second Sunday of Easter..............................................................................22April 30 – Third Sunday of Easter..................................................................................24May 7 – Fourth Sunday of Easter..................................................................................26May 14 – Fifth Sunday of Easter....................................................................................28May 21 – Sixth Sunday of Easter...................................................................................30May 25 – Ascension Day (Thursday).............................................................................32May 28 – Seventh Sunday of Easter..............................................................................34

2 Gathering, LE 2017

March 1 – Ash WednesdayWorship materials for Ash Wednesday were contributed by Bill Steadman and Catherine Somerville, St. Andrew’s U.C., Sudbury, Ont.

Joel 2:1–2, 12–17The day of the Lord is near.

or Isaiah 58:1–12A fast that is acceptable to God.

Psalm 51:1–17 (VU pp. 776–777)Create in me a new heart.

2 Corinthians 5:20b—6:10We are ambassadors for Christ.

Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21Give alms and fast in secret.

To PonderTo repent is to turn around. What do you wish to turn around in your life this Lenten season?

SparkWe do not have a strong tradition of Ash Wednesday services within much of the Protestant tradition. Part of the hesitation may be that we are embarrassed or feel awkward about having a cross of ashes on our forehead. Yet it is a small way to allow ourselves to be identified as Christian as we move into a time of Lent—a time of personal reflection and renewal as we approach the events of Holy Week. We should never approach others in an imperialistic way about our faith, but Ash Wednesday may allow us to have a conversation about faith without forcing the issues, or our beliefs, onto others. See “A Ritual for Ashes” in Seasonal Ideas and Resources, p. 57.

With ChildrenChildren are rarely a part of an Ash Wednesday service in our experience, but children know about symbols. Many children of school age know what it is like to be on a team and wear the same team shirt, or go to a school where everyone wears the same uniform. In a sense, Ash Wednesday reminds us all that we are part of the team of followers of Jesus, and so we share a similar marking to remind us of his love for us.

Sermon StarterAs a reflection, we could speak to the tradition of ashing on this day. We make ashes from the palm leaves of the year before, so the act of receiving ashes is a microcosm of participating in the fullness of the year of worship, celebration, and reflection. The act of receiving the ashes is the main focus of the service.

HymnsJoel 2:1–2, 12–17VU 513 “Give to me, Lord, a thankful heart”

Please include this statement when using material from Gathering: Written by: ___________. Gathering, LE 2017, page _____. Used with permission.

Gathering, Lent/Easter 2017

VU 661 “Come to my heart”Isaiah 58:1–12VU 701 “What does the Lord require of you”MV 77 “Be still and know” (could introduce prayer time)Psalm 51:1–17 VU 602 “Blest be the tie that binds”MV 109 “My soul is thirsting for you”2 Corinthians 5:20b—6:10VU 559 “Come, O Fount of every blessing”VU 562 “Jesus calls us”Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21VU 473 “Let all mortal flesh keep silence”VU 561 “Take up your cross”


March 5 – Lent 1Worship materials for Lent 1 were contributed by Grant Dillenbeck and Ruth Richardson, Stittsville U.C., Stittsville, Ont.

Genesis 2:15–17; 3:1–7The tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

Psalm 32 (VU p. 759)Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

Romans 5:12–19Through one came death; through one came life.

Matthew 4:1–11The temptation of Jesus.

To PonderWhat is it like for you to trust that you have all that you need, that God will provide?

SparkPresent a slide show of photographs of desolate wilderness alternating with photographs of lush forests, waterfalls, and gardens, either before the service or during the time with the children, the sermon, or the Prayers of the People. Alternatively, paint a mural of wilderness transitioning into a garden or create a display including a barren space covered with burlap beside some large potted plants and flowers.

Other ideas: Read the psalm from The Message as a responsive reading. With proper permission, show an excerpt from The Gospel According to Matthew directed by Regardt van den Bergh (Casscom Media/Nest Family 1993, re-released 2010).

With ChildrenSpeak about the meaning of the season of Lent, drawing attention to Lenten symbols in the sanctuary. Mention that through the ages, people have fasted or “given something up” for Lent as a way to grow in their relationship with God and their understanding of the Way of Jesus. We can also add things to our lives during Lent to heighten its spiritual significance for us. This might include special daily devotional times or involvement in an outreach project. End with Tom Sherwood’s Lenten Call to a Holy Fast and a Holy Feast. (See Seasonal Ideas and Resources, p. 59; also see this section for more ideas for Lent.)

Sermon StarterAdam and Eve had everything they needed or wanted, yet they gave in to the temptation of taking the one thing they knew they should not have. In the wilderness, Jesus has nothing, yet he does not give in to the temptation of receiving bread, special spiritual attention, or the power and wealth of all the kingdoms. Jesus resists temptation because he trusts God. Jesus did not derive his identity from what he had but rather from who he was, God’s child. Comedian Louis CK comments that “Everything’s amazing. Nobody’s happy.” We take for granted our amazing blessings and focus on what we don’t have. In his book I See Satan Fall Like Lightning (Orbis Books, 2001), René Girard calls this “mimetic desire,” which he says is the root of all



conflict. Can we trust we have all we need? Does our trust in God deepen our awareness of being a child of God and strengthen us in wilderness times?

HymnsGenesis 2:15–17; 3:1–7VU 112 “O God, how we have wandered”VU 287 “Wellspring of wisdom”VU 346 “There in God’s garden”MV 135 “Called by earth and sky”Psalm 32 VU 364 “Forgive our sins as we forgive”VU 611 “Out of the depths, O God, we call to you”MV 95 “How deep the peace”Romans 5:12–19 VU 112 “O God, how we have wandered”VU 271 “There’s a wideness in God’s mercy”VU 364 “Forgive our sins as we forgive”MV 81 “Love us into fullness”Matthew 4:1–11 VU 23 “Joy shall come”VU 113 “To the desert Jesus came”VU 115 “Jesus, tempted in the desert”MV 65 “When we are tested”MV 118 “Me alone”


March 12 – Lent 2 Worship materials for Lent 2 were contributed by Jeff Milan, Stittsville U.C., Stittsville, Ont.

Genesis 12:1–4a God calls Abram to be a blessing.

Psalm 121 (VU p. 842) I lift my eyes to the hills.

Romans 4:1–5, 13–17 The promise of God rests on grace.

John 3:1–17 Nicodemus learns that “God so loved the world.”

To PonderConsider the word blessing. How does God bless us? How has God blessed you?

SparkTell Abram’s story and bless a bowl of water while the organist plays or the choir/congregation sings “Spirit, Spirit of gentleness” (VU 375). Then bless the people by sprinkling water from a spruce branch dipped in the bowl and saying, “May the Spirit of God be upon you.” All respond: “And also with you.” Or invite the congregation to honour their baptism, one of God’s blessings, through silent prayer at the baptismal font. Or invite people to greet one another by raising hands in blessing and saying, “God bless you today,” with the response, “Amen.”

With ChildrenDownload and print images of faces that depict various emotions, such as anger, calm, happiness, hatred, love, etc. Suggest each child imitate one of the facial expressions and then change to a different expression. Repeat a few times. Share how we express emotions every day and how our feelings can reflect our inner “spirit” on our faces. Talk about the feelings of Abraham as he leaves Haran, and Nicodemus’s feelings when he visits Jesus at night. Our inner spirit is revealed through our expressions. Feelings are a very important part of God’s blessings as we journey with God. God accepts and understands all of our feelings: happy, sad, mad, and calm.

Sermon StarterIn today’s gospel, we trace the slow yet certain spiritual growth of Nicodemus: doubting yet thirsting, wondering but longing, curious yet hopeful, and so on. He is a learned and intelligent man, but not easily initiated into the new faith. He comes to Jesus under the cover of night because he is a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin. Later he advises his colleagues among the chief priests and Pharisees to listen and investigate before judging Jesus. After Jesus’ crucifixion, Nicodemus brings the mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds in weight, as fit tribute to the royal nature of the Lord. The Spirit of God was upon him and, finally, his true inner spirit shone. How about our own journey with Christ? How does our inner spirit shine?



HymnsGenesis 12:1–4aVU 286 “If you will trust in God to guide you”VU 634 “To Abraham and Sarah”MV 148 “Hope of Abraham and Sarah”Psalm 121VU p. 815 “Come, worship God”VU p. 842 “Unto the hills”MV 129 “To the high and kindly hills”Romans 4:1–5, 13–17VU 266 “Amazing grace”VU 642 “Be thou my vision”VU 663 “My faith looks up to thee”MV 139 “True faith needs no defence”John 3:1–17VU 567 “Will you come and follow me”VU 644 “I was there to hear your borning cry”VU 703 “In the bulb there is a flower”MV 182 “Grateful”


March 19 – Lent 3Worship materials for Lent 3 were contributed by Grant Dillenbeck, Stittsville U.C., Stittsville, Ont.

Exodus 17:1–7Water from the rock.

Psalm 95 (VU pp. 814–815)Let us shout to the rock of our salvation.

Romans 5:1–11Hope in God does not disappoint us.

John 4:5–42Jesus and the Samaritan woman.

To PonderWhen have you been in the position to bridge differences and seek reconciliation?

SparkShow a slide show of water images before or during the service. Set up a small garden fountain.

With proper permission, show an excerpt from The Gospel of John (Visual Bible International, 2003).

With ChildrenExplore why we make assumptions about people and treat people differently because of their age, appearance, and so on. If possible, using YouTube, play the audio from a talent show where the singing voice of a contestant does not match how we think the person might look (for instance, the voice of Susan Boyle or a young child who sounds like an adult opera singer). Invite the children to imagine the singer, and then show the picture of the singer. Ask the children why we treat some people better or worse than others. Many people thought Jesus should not speak to the Samaritan woman at the well, but Jesus treated everyone with equal respect. He looked past the differences between himself and the woman at the well. He set aside everything he had been told about Samaritans. Jesus made a deep connection with the woman in spite of what others said. We are called to do the same.

Sermon StarterThe conversation Jesus had with the woman at the well was scandalous for Samaritans and for Jesus’ own followers. Yet Jesus risked scandal and ridicule in order to treat the Samaritan woman as an equal and to engage her in a deep, meaningful conversation about faith. Explore the differences between Jesus and the woman, and why it was a scandal for them to have such a personal interaction. Compare the gospel story with our ways of treating people differently based on their gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, race, religion, language, and so on. Then explore ways we can bring down barriers and enter into meaningful conversations with people different from us. What can we learn from others? How can our conversations bring blessing and reconciliation?



HymnsExodus 17:1–7 VU 690 “From the slave pens of the delta”MV 87 “Water flowing from the mountains”MV 92 “Like a rock”MV 109 “My soul is thirsting for you”MV 144 “Like a healing stream”Psalm 95 VU 345 “Come, children, join to sing”MV 2 “Come all you people”MV 61 “I praise you, O God”MV 181 “Lord, your hands have formed”Romans 5:1–11 VU 559 “Come, O Fount of every blessing”MV 12 “Come touch our hearts”John 4:5–42VU 606 “In Christ there is no east or west”MV 87 “Water flowing from the mountains”MV 117 “By the well, a thirsty woman”MV 137 “Welcome, Jesus, you are welcome”MV 138 “My love colours outside the lines”


March 26 – Lent 4Worship materials for Lent 4 were contributed by Robert Schwab, Stittsville U.C., Stittsville, Ont.

1 Samuel 16:1–13Samuel chooses one of Jesse’s sons as king.

Psalm 23 (VU pp. 747–749)God is my shepherd.

Ephesians 5:8–14Live as children of the light.

John 9:1–41Jesus heals the man born blind.

To PonderWhen have you been judged, either positively or negatively, for outward appearances? What do you trust that God “sees” in you?

SparkThe good shepherd is a very comfortable reading because many of us can relate to green pastures, still waters, and right paths, even if not to the shepherd and sheep. But what imagery might others use? Try writing a paraphrase of Psalm 23 in a modern voice and situation to present what trusting faith might look like today. Your paraphrase might be included as a reading during the scripture lessons.

With ChildrenAsk the children if they have ever been divided up by a teacher or coach for a team game. Who gets chosen first? Listen to their answers. Pick up on ideas that suggest the following: the strongest, the fastest, the biggest. Tell them how David was chosen over his older brothers to be king of Israel even though he wasn’t the strongest, fastest, or biggest. Emphasize God’s message to Samuel in 1 Samuel 16:7: Do not look at appearance or height, for I do not see as others see; they look at the outward appearance, I look at what’s inside!

Sermon StarterJesus affirms the story in Samuel. Both David and the blind man were rejected in the eyes of the world. Too young, not ready, disabled, a sinner in the eyes of the “godly.” Little has changed. We live in a divided world where some are valued more than others. Wealth and power are in the hands of the super-rich: the one-percenters. Indigenous children still suffer from the sins of the colonizers. Some lives matter; some do not. Our world need not be like this. Faith looks beyond externals—the colour of the skin, the physical disability, the cultural differences, the intellectual disparities—to the inner person. All are worthy of our love, our compassion, and our hospitality. God is made known in each and every person. We are all God’s image. When we learn to see beyond our differences, other people gain fuller and freer lives.

Hymns1 Samuel 16:1–13 VU 509 “I, the Lord of sea and sky”



VU 567 “Will you come and follow me”MV 161 “I have called you by your name”MV 167 “Hush! Hush!”MV 172 “God says”Psalm 23 VU 273 “The King of love”VU 360 “A woman and a coin—the coin is lost”VU p. 748 “God is my shepherd” (Psalm 23)MV 94 “Love knocks and waits”MV 126 “Are you a shepherd?”Ephesians 5:8–14 VU 585 “Jesus bids us shine”VU 588 “Many are the lightbeams”MV 82 “Bathe me in your light”MV 209 “Go, make a diff’rence”John 9:1–41 VU 371 “Open my eyes, that I may see”VU 619 “Healer of our every ill”VU 661 “Come to my heart”MV 115 “Behold, behold, I make all things new”MV 171 “Christ has no body now but yours”General/SeasonalVU 117 “Jesus Christ is waiting”VU 514 “God the Spirit, guide and guardian”MV 120 “My soul cries out”MV 165 “There is a time”MV 169 “When hands reach out beyond divides”


April 2 – Lent 5Worship materials for Lent 5 were contributed by Carla Miner, Stittsville U.C., Stittsville, Ont.

Ezekiel 37:1–14 The valley of the dry bones.

Psalm 130Out of the depths I cry.

Romans 8:6–11Life in the spirit.

John 11:1–45The death of Lazarus.

To PonderHave you ever caught yourself saying “Everything will be all right” to someone who has no expectation that his or her troubles will go away any time soon? Why do you say it? What might be an alternative?

SparkAsk the congregation for their favourite photographs of sunrises. Use them to create a digital presentation where each photo very slowly fades in on top of a black background, recreating the coming of dawn. Finish each fade-in with this verse from the psalm: “My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning.” Repeat using the next photo. A recording of crickets or tree frogs could be used to create a contemplative mood—unless your congregation is more likely to drown it out with their own dawn chorus of happy chatter!

With ChildrenSpring is coming. Summer is around the corner. Start a conversation on the topic of “I can hardly wait for… (green grass, playing ball in the park, ice cream, summer vacation).” Develop the idea that there are good things that we know will come (spring after winter, vacation after work or school) and we have a pretty good idea how long we will have to wait. Contrast that to the things that we hope will come, but we don’t know how long they will take. Those things are harder to wait for, and we can’t make them come any quicker. For the younger ones, consider retelling the story of Rabbit waiting with Winnie-the-Pooh who is stuck in a very tight place. For the older ones, talk about waiting with a friend to go into an exam or to start a competition. Having a friend with us helps us wait. As followers of Jesus, we can intentionally be good friends to others who are waiting.

Sermon StarterAwake and scared in the middle of the night, we start to wonder whether dawn will ever come. Time stretches in those moments. Sleepless nights seem endless. Waiting for God to answer a prayer can feel like that. Ezekiel speaks to people who are beyond any reasonable expectation of a reversal of fortunes. Jesus was too late to save Lazarus, four days too late. Jesus knew that his own valley of shadows was ahead of him. He knew that God would not rescue him from the pain of crucifixion. We all have times when we have no reason to hope, when being told to hope does not help. Life is



not all laughter and light. Telling someone in their valley of dry bones that everything will be all right does not help! Promises of resurrection and life eternal do not erase the pain of sorrow. The more authentic Christian response is showing compassion for those in shadowed places and following the example set by Christ: “Jesus wept.”

HymnsEzekiel 37:1–14VU 284 “Joyful is the dark”VU 286 “If you will trust in God to guide you”MV 20 “God of still waiting”MV 83 “Let my spirit always sing”Psalm 130 VU 611 “Out of the depths, O God, we call to you”VU p. 852 “Up from the depths I cry to God”MV 72 “Why stand so far away”MV 143 “We cannot own the sunlit sky”Romans 8:6–11VU 368 “Holy Spirit, truth divine”VU 586 “We shall go out with hope of resurrection”MV 182 “Grateful” John 11:1–45VU 154 “Why has God forsaken me”VU 704 “God give us life”MV 65 “When we are tested”MV 71 “When the wind of winter blows” MV 73 “O God, why are you silent?”


April 9 – Palm/Passion SundayWorship materials for Holy Week were contributed by Bill Steadman and Catherine Somerville, St. Andrew’s U.C., Sudbury, Ont.

Liturgy of the PalmsMatthew 21:1–11Jesus enters Jerusalem.

Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29 (VU p. 837) The stone the builders rejected.

Liturgy of the PassionIsaiah 50:4–9a The suffering servant struck and insulted.

Psalm 31:9–16 (VU p. 758) My times are in your hands.

Philippians 2:5–11 Let the same mind be in you as was in Jesus.

Matthew 26:14—27:66 or Matthew 27:11–54 The passion of Jesus.

To PonderWho has been a model of faith for you? A model of humble leadership?

SparkFocus on the Liturgy of the Palms, if you also gather on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. Offer a stark contrast between the entry into Jerusalem and the hope it embodied, and the pain and anguish of the events later in that same week as the disciples, accompanying Jesus, moved to the horror of Good Friday.

With ChildrenWhat a great day to invite the children, and anyone who wants to join them, to lead a parade of palms through the congregation. (Palm branches may be ordered through a church supply company.) After sharing the story of the entry into Jerusalem, invite the children to join in a parade around the sanctuary, singing VU 128 “Sanna, sannanina.” Later, talk about the symbol of palm branches and the celebration of parades. Do you think Jesus enjoyed his palm parade long ago? Why or why not?

Sermon StarterThe story of the entry into Jerusalem is a story of humility, but also a story of ritual. Jesus enters not on a great steed but on a donkey, yet he also does not enter on foot. There is a sense of ceremony in the way in which he enters, and the disciples make the ceremony work for a simple servant of the faith, not a marauding ruler. There may be times when you have noted a great leader doing something humble or experienced the caring of a political leader in times of crisis, disaster, or confusion. We tend to remember the humble acts of kindness more than the spectacular, and so the entry



into Jerusalem became memorable for those who were present. Who can you lift up as a caring, modest presence in your community?

Hymns

Liturgy of the PalmsMatthew 21:1–11 VU 123 “Hosanna, loud hosanna”VU 124 “He came riding on a donkey”VU 126 “Ride on, ride on, the time is right”VU 128 “Sanna, sannanina”Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29VU 232 “Joyful, joyful we adore you”VU 472 “O Jesus, joy of loving hearts” (communion)VU 477 “I come with joy”MV 122 “This is the day”

Liturgy of the PassionIsaiah 50:4–9aVU 409 “Morning has broken”VU 650 “O God of Bethel”Psalm 31:9–16VU 670 “Precious Lord, take my hand”Philippians 2:5–11VU 325 “Christ is made the sure foundation”Matthew 26:14—27:66VU 462 “Before I take the body of my Lord” VU 512 “Lord, you give the great commission”Matthew 27:11–54VU 134 “Shadows gather, deep and cold”


April 13 – Maundy ThursdayExodus 12:1–4, (5–10), 11–14Instructions for the first Passover.

Psalm 116:1–2, 12–19 (VU p. 836)How can I repay you, O God?

1 Corinthians 11:23–26An account of the Last Supper.

John 13:1–17, 31b–35Jesus washes the disciples’ feet.

To PonderWho has “stayed awake” with you in a difficult time? How do you “stay awake” with others?

SparkOften, Maundy Thursday is a time for remembering the Jewish Seder Jesus shared with his disciples and for a special honouring and remembering of the Last Supper. The readings invite us into an examination of the call to be present with and for Christ, to “wait” and to “watch.” The service ideas that follow are built on that theme, as the disciples struggled to “wait” and to “watch” with Jesus in his final hours.

With ChildrenChildren understand the excitement of anticipation (such as at Christmastime, waiting for gift giving and sharing), but they also understand the long wait for something that is important. It may be the wait to get into a theatre for a special movie or the wait to go on a special holiday. What does it feel like to wait for something important? Why does the time seem to take so long? The disciples struggled as they waited with Jesus while he prayed in the garden, facing the end of his life. Some children may volunteer sadness they have faced when visiting a grandparent or other relative, or even a friend, for the last time before they died—be sensitive to what is offered and help them make sense of that experience. Remember, God is with us, just as God was with Jesus.

Sermon StarterWe speak a lot about love within the church and assume that our congregations embody a sense of love for others. Yet how far are we willing to stretch that sense of love and compassion? Do we truly accept everyone in our midst? Is there anyone we might look askance at if they arrived in worship? Do we assume that people should “fit into our ways” when they enter our place of worship? Maundy Thursday is a living example of how Jesus did not judge people on who they were, but asked his disciples to simply be with him, to “stay awake with him” in his time of need. This day reminds us of the powerful presence of simply “being with” someone as they face heartache and disappointment, even loss. Often the best that we can do is to be present for those who are bereaved or facing tragedy or disaster. Being present expresses our empathy and support. Period.

Hymns Exodus 12:1–4, (5–10), 11–14VU 112 “O God, how we have wandered”



Psalm 116:1–2, 12–19VU 283 “God is the One whom we seek together”

1 Corinthians 11:23–26VU 457 “As we gather at your table”VU 459 “Here, O my Lord, I see you face to face”MV 197 “Bread of life, broken and shared”John 13:1–17, 31b–35VU 133 “Go, now, to dark Gethsemane”MV 216 “Wherever you may go”


April 14 – Good Friday Isaiah 52:13—53:12The suffering servant, despised and rejected.

Psalm 22 (VU pp. 743–746)Why have you forsaken me?

Hebrews 10:16–25Provoke one another to love and good deeds.

or Hebrews 4:14–16; 5:7–9Jesus, the high priest who knows our weakness.

John 18:1—19:42The Passion Narrative.

To PonderAs a person of faith, complete the following: “I am...” and “I am not...”

SparkThe readings from John’s gospel on the Passion Narrative are lengthy, and it is easy to lose the story in the verses. Divide the readings into blocks and briefly reflect on different aspects. You might lift out the passages of self-identity. Jesus does not hesitate to proclaim, “I am he,” when those gathered say they have come for Jesus of Nazareth (18:1–11). In contrast, Peter continually responds, “I am not,” when asked if he is one of the disciples (18:12–27). When have we been clear in our affirmation of who we are and what we believe? When have we faced uncertainty and fear, losing our ability to be faithful and caring? How do these responses speak to where we were in our lives at that time? Often, when we live with fear for the future, we hide from what life offers—we even hide from God, and from ourselves. Even though Good Friday is a bleak story, Jesus never lived with fear and never tried to hide.

With ChildrenA separate children’s program invites children into discussion of Good Friday themes and encourages parents to come to the service, knowing that their children will have their own worship and reflection time. Set up stations with age-appropriate activities about, for example, where Jesus lived and where he died, occupations of the disciples and importance of farming and fishing in the Holy Land, and burial practices and the use of a tomb. Possibly include a space where children could talk with an adult about what they know about death. Design a craft to engage children in an image of Jesus as a teacher and leader. Share the story of communion, explaining the role of bread and juice in the ritual and why it is so much a part of the church. Older children might use costumes and enact the scripture of Jesus’ arrest, and later talk about how they felt playing a soldier, a disciple, Pontius Pilate, or Jesus himself.

Sermon StarterIn many ways, the lead-up to Good Friday is a story of the struggle for self-identity—Jesus is very clear and open as to who he is and why he has come. Peter momentarily puts his own preservation and safety ahead of his commitment to and faith in Jesus. The message could engage that struggle in life. There are days when we are clear as to who we are and what we are called to be and to do; there are others when we live in



fear and doubt. The good news (even on Good Friday) is that God is with us in all situations. There may be concerns and issues of struggle within the community that can be openly shared, for this is a day of truth-telling and facing the shadows of our lives, knowing that God is present for each and every one of us. Whatever is shared from our own story is shared in the shadow of the suffering and death that Jesus faced so courageously and so faithfully.

HymnsIsaiah 52:13—53:12VU 147 “What wondrous love is this”VU 151 “Lift high the cross”Psalm 22VU 653 “Come, let us to the God of love”VU p. 743 “God, why have you forsaken me”MV 73 “O God, why are you silent?”Hebrews 10:16–25MV 189 “Jesus, we are here” (prayer response)Hebrews 4:14–16; 5:7–9VU 211 “Crown him with many crowns” (especially verses 1, 4)MV 17 “God in the darkness”John 18:1—19:42VU 135 “Beneath the cross of Jesus”VU 139 “At the cross her vigil keeping”VU 142 “Jesus, keep me near the cross”VU 144 “Were you there”VU 182 “Stay with us through the night”


April 16 – Easter SundayActs 10:34–43 Peter’s account of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

or Jeremiah 31:1–6 God’s everlasting love.

Psalm 118:1–2, 14–24 (VU p. 837) God is my strength and my song.

Colossians 3:1–4 Set your mind on things above.

John 20:1–18 or Matthew 28:1–10 Mary and the empty tomb.

To PonderWhat is the biggest surprise you’ve had in your life? What are the feelings you associate with that experience?

Spark Ask a gardener to work in the church flowerbeds or tend plants inside the church as people arrive. Later, have that gardener read the Gospel of John account of the resurrection.

With ChildrenWe can ask the children if they have had experiences of looking for something and not finding it (maybe a gift bag with nothing in it; a box of cereal that has been emptied; a carton of milk in the fridge that is empty). How does it feel when nothing is there when you expect something? What would it be like for the women and disciples to come to Jesus’ tomb and find no body there? Would they be afraid? Confused? Disappointed? Glad? Usually, we are disappointed when we find something empty, but, in the case of the empty tomb, it pointed toward the most wonderful news of all, that Jesus is risen (though the followers of Jesus were confused, at first).

Sermon StarterEaster is so much a part of the Christian tradition that we can easily miss the shock and amazement of that first Easter morning. There is nothing traditional or expected in the story of Easter as recorded in either John’s gospel or Matthew’s gospel. Can you think of a time when you have experienced a surprise event, something that was totally outside of what you expected? Leaving the 42nd General Council meeting held in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, in August 2015, a group of us realized that both Hockey Night in Canada co-host Ron MacLean and world-famous Canadian novelist Margaret Atwood were on the plane we were soon to board. You may have had a surprise meeting with someone well known or famous, but what about not seeing someone you knew would be there, such as not seeing Jesus’ body in the tomb?Mary assumes that she has met the gardener when she sees the risen Jesus. For years, that seemed to me to be a statement of turning Jesus into a common labourer, somehow diminishing his importance and gifts. The truth is, being a gardener is a very highly regarded profession in the biblical witness. The garden of Eden is a symbol of



perfection and is regarded as the essence of the life God shares with us. God is the gardener. The failure of Adam and Eve is a failure to honour and preserve the garden—that is their original sin. Jesus as a gardener brings full circle the story of Adam.

HymnsActs 10:34–43VU 220 “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty”VU 223 “Eternal, Unchanging, we sing”Jeremiah 31:1–6VU 586 “We shall go out with hope of resurrection”VU p. 884 “You shall go out with joy”Psalm 118:1–2, 14–24VU 216 “Sing praise to God, who reigns above”VU 217 “All creatures of our God and King”Colossians 3:1–4VU 251 “God created heaven and earth”John 20:1–18VU 184 “As we walked home at close of day”MV 58 “We sing of your glory”Matthew 28:1–10VU 175 “This is the day that God has made”VU 179 “Hallelujah, hallelujah, give thanks”MV 14 “Where two or three are gathered”MV 122 “This is the day”


April 23 – Second Sunday of EasterWorship materials for the Second Sunday of Easter to the Fourth Sunday of Easter were contributed by Stephen Wickett, Westway U.C., Etobicoke, Ont.

Acts 2:14a, 22–32 Peter preaches on Pentecost.

Psalm 16 (VU pp. 737–738) In you, God, I take refuge.

1 Peter 1:3–9 Salvation is the outcome of faithfulness.

John 20:19–31 Jesus appears to the disciples and to Thomas.

To PonderWhen have you had to believe something without any proof? Are you someone who works better with physical proof or someone who can easily go on faith?

SparkPlace a picture of the disciples, covered by a sheet, in front of the congregation.

With ChildrenDraw the attention of the children to the picture covered by a sheet. Pretend this is a mystery. Who do the children think might be in the picture? Tell the children the story of Jesus appearing to Thomas. Suggest that there is a picture of the disciples beneath the sheet. Are the children sure that the picture is there? Do they need to have faith that what they are told is true? Who wants to actually see the picture to believe? Who feels that they believe without seeing? That’s the situation Thomas was in. The other disciples believed because they saw. Thomas was invited to believe without seeing, as are we, but we have the stories of the Bible and the Christian community to help us.

Sermon StarterPicking up on the Children’s Time, how do we really know that the picture under the sheet is that of the disciples? When we are told of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, do we believe? When we are told that Jesus appeared to the disciples, do we believe? What can we believe without seeing? What do we need to see to believe? In our congregation, people who have travelled to the Holy Land have shared pictures taken of various sites. One such traveller came back to a congregation with a file of over 200 pictures involving various sites. The effect of these on the congregation was one of silent reaffirmation of what had been taught. Jesus spoke of the value inherent in having faith in things unseen. When and where are we called to have faith in things unseen? How are we affected? Remember the story of Thomas. It seems unfair that Thomas is expected to believe without seeing or touching when the other disciples had the benefit of seeing Jesus. Maybe Thomas was being asked to lead the way for generations of the faithful to follow, those who, like us, would need to believe without physical proof.

HymnsActs 2:14a, 22–32



VU 157 “Christ the Lord is risen today”VU 198 “Come, O Spirit, dwell among us”MV 161 “I have called you by your name”Psalm 16VU 391 “God, reveal your presence”VU 416 “Forth in your name, O Christ”VU p. 737 “Protect me, God”1 Peter 1:3–9VU 215 “Hope of the world”VU 577 “I’ve got peace like a river”John 20:19–31VU 170 “O sons and daughters, let us sing”VU 382 “Breathe on me, breath of God”VU 396 “Jesus, stand among us”


April 30 – Third Sunday of EasterActs 2:14a, 36–41 Three thousand new followers of the Way.

Psalm 116:1–4, 12–19 (VU p. 836) How can I repay you, God?

1 Peter 1:17–23 Souls purified through obedience.

Luke 24:13–35 Jesus’ appearance on the road to Emmaus.

To Ponder How do you recognize when it is the Holy Spirit who is moving and nudging you?

SparkToday would be a great day to share in communion. Talk about saying “grace” before a meal as a way of pausing to remember Jesus every time we “break bread” or eat. Why not learn some new graces together, both musical and spoken?

With ChildrenImagine with the children that they are walking together down the road with the disciples who had just left Jerusalem, believing that Jesus had died and that his community was finished. What might the disciples have been talking about? You notice someone new walking with them, someone who knows a great deal about scripture and about God. You have this warm and good feeling as you listen to the person. When you reach the town where you will stay for the night, you invite the person to join you. At supper, this person picks up a loaf of bread and breaks it, and immediately you realize that it is Jesus who has been with you. How do we recognize when it is Jesus (or God’s Spirit) helping us, encouraging us, guiding us, or asking us to do something? Hint: Notice the warm and good feeling in the story.

Sermon StarterThe people travelling on the road to Emmaus were engaged in their own conversation and did not originally notice and pay attention to Jesus. They were unaware that this was Jesus. As the story progresses, we find that the travellers eventually did realize that Jesus was there. Then their reaction changed. If we experience something in which we are guided or led or feel moved in a direction, can we realize that the Holy Spirit may be at work within us? So often, we feel these tugs in a certain direction and ignore them, not realizing the source. Such is the challenge of faith. What has happened in the world when people have responded to the presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit? How can we make ourselves open to the presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit? We need to be open, and not only accept this possibility but bid it welcome.

HymnsActs 2:14a, 36–41VU 190 “The head that once was crowned”MV 135 “Called by earth and sky”Psalm 116:1–4, 12–19MV 196 “We will take what you offer”



1 Peter 1:17–23VU 186 “Now the green blade rises”VU 594 “O Christian, love”Luke 24:13–35VU 169 “Good Christians all, rejoice and sing”VU 184 “As we walked home at close of day”VU 452 “You have put on Christ”MV 199 “When at this table”


May 7 – Fourth Sunday of EasterActs 2:42–47 The believers share everything in common.

Psalm 23 (VU pp. 747–749) God is my shepherd.

1 Peter 2:19–25 Christ’s example in suffering.

John 10:1–10 Jesus: the good shepherd and the gate.

To PonderWhat do you give up when you share what you have in community? What do you gain?

SparkAsk folks what they share. What do we share every day without even thinking about it (e.g., roads, sidewalks, hospitals, schools, food)? What is in place in order to help us share with friends, family, neighbours, strangers in need? Sing the song “Magic Penny” (“Love is something if you give it away”) by Malvina Reynolds.

With ChildrenGather the children and give each one an envelope containing something that will be hard to guess. Tell them not to open them. What do they think is in their envelope? Now ask them to pass their envelope to the next person. What do they imagine their new envelope might contain? Then ask them to pass this envelope along. How do they feel? Why do we sometimes not want to share? When is it easy to share? Would it be easier to pass your envelope along if I told you that every envelope contained the same thing? What if I told you that each envelope contained something different? In the book of Acts, we are told that the followers of Jesus shared everything they had with each other. No one was left hungry or without clothes or without a place to live. Everyone shared and everyone had enough. Connect that to why we give an offering each week. What else do the children share?

Sermon StarterWhen I think of sharing, sharing my time and presence comes to mind. As a minister of music, I have visited a number of parishioners in their moments of loss. I once arrived at a funeral home to express support to a very well-known choir member in the loss of her mother. As I was walking down the hall toward the very full visitation room, a young person came out of another smaller room and said to me, “Oh, Mr. Wickett, I just hoped you would come.” This voice belonged to a former choir member whose father had died suddenly. I was unaware of her situation. I briefly visited where I had first intended and spent the rest of my time with this younger family, in the much smaller room, with very few people. Let us be open to the moments of unforeseen blessings and think of what can happen when we dare to share. Some view sharing as a risky chance, but faithful sharing brings blessing to both giver and receiver.

HymnsActs 2:42–47VU 480 “Let us break bread together”



MV 154 “Deep in our hearts”Psalm 23VU 273 “The King of love”VU 631 “Jesus, your boundless love to me”VU 633 “Bless now, O God, the journey”VU p. 749 Psalm 23 (God is my shepherd) 1 Peter 2:19–25VU 360 “A woman and a coin—the coin is lost”VU 559 “Come, O Fount of every blessing”John 10:1–10VU 478 “You satisfy the hungry heart”VU 635 “All the way my Saviour leads me”MV 143 “We cannot own the sunlit sky”MV 161 “I have called you by your name”


May 14 – Fifth Sunday of EasterWorship materials for the Fifth Sunday of Easter to the Seventh Sunday of Easter were contributed by Fern Gibbard and Laura Turnbull, Penticton U.C., Penticton, B.C.

Acts 7:55–60Stephen is stoned.

Psalm 31:1–5, 15–16 (VU p. 758, Parts One and Three)My times are in your hands.

1 Peter 2:2–10A chosen race, a royal priesthood, living stones.

John 14:1–14I am the way, the truth, the life.

To PonderHow do you discern the way, the truth, the life, in the complexities of daily living?

SparkSet up a display of stones of different sizes and shapes. In the midst of them, have pictures of members of your congregation. Place a banner overtop, stating, “We are living stones.”

With ChildrenUse blocks and build a house or a church. Point to the cornerstone. Ask: What do you think will happen if I pull the cornerstone out? Now pull it out. The whole thing falls. OR build a Roman arch with the help of the kids to hold the pieces. Add the keystone, then allow the kids to let go. The arch stands. Jesus is our cornerstone or our keystone. We are the living stones. Because we have Jesus, we can be strong and courageous in sharing love in this world.

Sermon StarterWhat is the bottom line, the foundation for all your decision-making? How do you discern the way, the truth, the life, in the complexities of daily living? The stone in the hand of a mob versus the stone in the hand of God as the foundation of faithful living is a sharp contrast. Choosing between the stones of persecution and the strong foundation stones for the church in the world in the 21st century is a challenge in our “me”-focused world. The psalm offers a rock of refuge. What does it mean to be living stones? How can we be the cornerstones for our families, our community, the world?

Hymns Acts 7:55–60VU 286 “If you will trust in God to guide you”VU 615 “When quiet peace is shattered”MV 1 “Let us build a house”Psalm 31:1–5, 15–16VU 614 “In suffering love”MV 83 “Let my spirit always sing”MV 92 “Like a rock”1 Peter 2:2–10



VU 325 “Christ is made the sure foundation”VU 660 “How firm a foundation”MV 115 “Behold, behold, I make all things new”John 14:1–14VU 158 “Christ is alive”VU 628 “Come, my Way, my Truth”VU 661 “Come to my heart”MV 115 “Behold, behold, I make all things new”


May 21 – Sixth Sunday of EasterActs 17:22–31 Paul points the Athenians to “the unknown god.”

Psalm 66:8–20 (VU pp. 784–785, Parts Two and Three) God preserved us.

1 Peter 3:13–22 Do not repay evil for evil.

John 14:15–21 The Advocate, the Spirit, will be with you.

To PonderWhat are your experiences of being included and excluded? How have each shaped your ministry?

SparkWe would title the service “Telling God’s Love Story, Which Is All-Inclusive.” Place pictures of a great variety of people (of all colours, ethnicities, ages, occupations, and those with limitations and various gifts) at work, play, and worship around the narthex and sanctuary. A large cross, heart, dove, or butterfly symbol could help to link some of the pictures.

With ChildrenFocus on the psalm, using verses 19 and 20 to open and close. Talk to the younger folks about all the events and actions involved in the story. If you like drama, go for it! OR talk about an animal that you adopted from the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or a shelter. God chooses to love and care for all of us.

Sermon StarterThe passage from John is comforting as many congregations are facing decreased size and are discerning future ministry. We need to hear again, “Because I live, you also will live.” Are we courageous enough to honour the God in whom we live and move and have our being? Will we continue to baptize and love radically? Will we help our folks to grieve well as we look toward change or even closure? There is great consolation and hope in this passage!

Perhaps one could focus on pluralism using the Acts passage. Many congregations are sharing their buildings with communities of faith that are different from The United Church of Canada. How do we look toward shared ministry? What does inclusive ministry look like in your community? Does it reflect God’s many shades of beautiful? The message of Christ is an inclusive one to a “known god” who touches us with love and unconditional acceptance. How might our doors fling open to welcome those of other traditions and experiences of the Divine?

HymnsActs 17:22–31VU 264 “Immortal, invisible, God only wise”VU 283 “God is the One whom we seek together”VU 390 “How great the mystery of faith”



MV 44 “Shadow and substance”MV 145 “Draw the circle wide”Psalm 66:8–20VU 232 “Joyful, joyful we adore you”VU 343 “I love to tell the story”1 Peter 3:13–22VU 286 “If you will trust in God to guide you”VU 570 “Jesus’ hands were kind hands”John 14:15–21VU 333 “Love divine, all loves excelling”VU 368 “Holy Spirit, truth divine”VU 371 “Open my eyes, that I may see”MV 49 “When we seek language”


May 25 – Ascension Day (Thursday)(These scriptures may also be used on May 28.)

Acts 1:1–11The promise of the Spirit and Jesus’ Ascension.

Psalm 47 (VU p. 771)Clap your hands, all you people.

or Psalm 93 (VU pp. 812–813)Majestic is our God.

Ephesians 1:15–23 I do not cease to give thanks for you.

Luke 24:44–53 Jesus’ last words to the disciples bring joy.

To PonderWhat gospel verse(s) shapes your ministry?

SparkTo celebrate the majesty of God and wonder of Ascension, you might light sparklers on a cake or cupcakes to share.

With ChildrenShow several different sizes of batteries and items that use the batteries. What other sources of power do we have available to us? Talk about God’s amazing power. God’s Spirit is our power source, helping us to keep loving and sharing even when we’re tired, discouraged, and ready to give up.

Sermon StarterHave you ever had the experience of receiving someone’s last words, either in person or in written form? Words that are something you have treasured and by which you have been inspired? What did the person say that you hold on to? How do those words guide you to this day? Jesus offers last words to his disciples that bring them joy and hope.

Ephesians reads like a letter to the newly confirmed. Might all the scripture lections become a letter to the congregation affirming the awe and wonder of God’s abiding and amazing grace? Start with an old-fashioned letter. However, what would a text message say?

HymnsActs 1:1–11VU 189 “Hail the day that sees him rise”VU 381 “Spirit of Life”MV 24 “Breath of God, breath of peace”Psalm 47 VU 246 “Shout for God”VU 294 “Clap your hands”



MV 59 “Alleluia, praise to God”Ephesians 1:15–23VU 325 “Christ is made the sure foundation”VU 512 “Lord, you give the great commission”MV 171 “Christ has no body now but yours”Luke 24:44–53VU 189 “Hail the day that sees him rise”VU 211 “Crown him with many crowns”VU 314 “Come now, almighty King”VU 481 “Sent forth by God’s blessing”


May 28 – Seventh Sunday of EasterActs 1:6–14 The Ascension of Jesus.

Psalm 68:1–10, 32–35 (VU p. 787)God makes a home for the poor.

1 Peter 4:12–14; 5:6–11 Cast your cares on God. Be alert.

John 17:1–11 Jesus prays that his disciples “all may be one.”

To PonderThe United Church of Canada was founded on the principle “In things essential unity; in everything else diversity.”* What does this principle mean in your ministry and your congregation?

SparkEnd your service with the congregation linking arms to sing a blessing or sending forth song, in order to embody the words “So that they may be one, as we are one” (John 17:11).

With ChildrenHave a tray with 10 or so different items on it. Have the children look at it and name the items. Then cover the tray with a sheet. Ask the children to name the items using their memory. Show the uncovered tray again. Ask the children if you made any changes to the tray. Go on to explain that although you didn’t make any changes, things can seem different when time passes. And that is the way it is with our relationship with God. Sometimes we feel close to God. Sometimes we might feel far away from God. Yet God always loves us and cares for us.

OR give each child a stone. Talk about the stones being like the things they get worried or upset about. They are a little like a pebble in our shoe. It is hard to walk when we have a pebble in our shoe. Have them place the stones in a ceramic bowl. Explain that God doesn’t want us carrying around troubles. The bowl is full of God’s love. We can place our worries and troubles into God’s love. End with a prayer thanking God for taking care of our problems.

Sermon StarterSmall is beautiful. Big is beautiful. Whether as families, as congregations, or in small-group ministries, we have great strength and power in being together when we let God’s love and wisdom guide us and make us one. Hold before the congregation the strength of being one, in God’s name and love. It takes work, but when we make room for both unity and diversity, then blessings abound! How do we witness to the wonder of God’s amazing grace that helps us be one?

HymnsActs 1:6–14VU 266 “Amazing grace”VU 337 “Blessed assurance”



VU 338 “Ask me what great thing I know”MV 75 “Holy Spirit, come to us”Psalm 68:1–10, 32–35VU 559 “Come, O Fount of every blessing”VU 608 “Dear God, who loves all humankind”MV 144 “Like a healing stream”MV 221 “I am walking a path of peace”1 Peter 4:12–14; 5:6–11VU 427 “To show by touch and word”VU 664 “What a friend we have in Jesus”MV 161 “I have called you by your name”John 17:1–11VU 348 “O love, how deep”VU 395 “Come in, come in and sit down”VU 402 “We are one”VU 691 “Though ancient walls”MV 62 “There is room for all”MV 141 “We are all one people”MV 145 “Draw the circle wide”MV 169 “When hands reach out beyond divides”

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