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Advent 2025: Be Amazed! First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio December 14, 2025 Worship: 9:30 am Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. ***************************************­ We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ****************************************** We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER Advent Three: Joy in the Desert ~Gathering~ Preludes: “I Wonder as I Wander” – arr. Jay Rouse “Twas in the Moon of Wintertime” – arr. Mark Hayes Welcome& Announcements Opening Hymn: VT 237 Now the Heavens v3 Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:5 “Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded! For work is being done in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.” Focus Statement: Imagine wandering thirsty through a desert wasteland and happening upon a spring of clear, cold water. On this third Sunday of Advent, you are invited to lay down your cares; find rest, comfort and joy in God’s amazing provision, in the places where you least expect it. Time of Meditation : “ Silent Night” – arr. Rachel Trelstad Porte Call to Worship: Leader: Come, all who hunger and thirst for more—God calls us to the feast! People: We are weary exiles, longing for home, caught in a world that drains our hope. Leader: “Listen, so that you may live! My covenant is everlasting, my promise sure.” People: The invitation is for all people, from the farthest reaches on the earth. Leader: The word of the Lord does not return empty—it brings forth life! People: The mountains and the hills will burst into song, the trees of the field will clap their hands! All: You are the source of true joy, O God. You expand our vision, lifting our eyes beyond the moment, beyond despair, into amazement. We stand before you, ready to enter your story and be amazed. Opening Prayer Advent Candlelighting Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter) Leader: We have been wandering in the dark, cold desert of grief and despair, and we feel heavy, dry and lifeless. People: Come, Joy of the world. Come amaze us. All: May your joy water our thirsty souls, that we may become your fountains of joy, freely sharing your joy with the world. Hymn: VT 218 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus ~Praying & Praising~ Old Testament Scripture : Psalm 42 Prayers of the People Christmas Carol: VT 248 It Came Upon a Midnight Clear ~Hearing God’s Word~ Scripture: Isaiah 55:1, 6, 9-12 Be Amazed Story: “Joy in the Chaos” -read by Nancy Yoder Message: “Come to the Lord. Receive his joy, comfort, and peace.” ~Responding~ Hymn of Response: VT 209 We Dream of a Turning (the offering will be brought forth at this time) Offering Prayer: Leader: God, we are thirsty and you call us to your waters. But sometimes we try to slake our thirst from other sources. People: Forgive us when we turn away from the living water that you offer. Leader: God, we are hungry and you offer us bread without cost. But sometimes we pay too much for food that does not nourish. People: Forgive us when we do not accept your gracious provision. Leader: Forgive us, God, for the many ways we fail to trust you: People: when we spend our money for that which is not bread and our labor for that which does not satisfy. Leader: God, we seek you; we call upon you. ALL: Have mercy on us, for we know that you abundantly Pardon. Accept our offerings and use them for good. Bless them and endow us with your mercy, your grace, and your desire to bring peace and joy to our world. Amen. ~Sending~ Benediction Sending Hymn: VT 847 You Shall Go Out with Joy Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19 Postlude : “Cold December Flies Away” – Spanish carol arr. by Anna Laura Page WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer Song Leader: April Shupe Usher: Herb Torgler Please note that the music for our Advent services is carefully chosen to represent the meditative side of Advent as reflected in the night sky on the altar. Different arrangements of "Silent Night" will be used each Sunday during the Time of Meditation to emphasize the theme. Cover Art: Visio Divina—The Clapping Trees ARTIST: Len Rempel (Visio Divina Collection, 2023) Advent 2025: This year, our theme is, “Be Amazed!” Each week, we’ll be invited to notice the surprising and powerful ways in which God shows up—even when we least expect it. We invite you to immerse yourself in the visuals and explore the theme, “Be Amazed!” in several ways: *One way is through the picture you will see each week on the big screen as you walk into the sanctuary. Even before the service begins, you can look at the picture and along with it, the introductory scripture which you can read in the Bibles located in the pews, or bring your own Bible. This way you can contemplate the story of the scripture passage and prepare for the worship to follow. *Another way we invite you to explore the theme is through the symbol of a star. The stars remind us of God’s mysterious and guiding presence—distant yet near, powerful yet gentle. Like the blazing stars in the sky, God’s glory is sometimes hidden from view by our distractions, expectations or the “clouds” of daily life. Yet, the light of God is always shining—waiting for us to notice. Just as the Magi followed the star to find Christ, we too are invited to look up, notice, and be amazed by God’s presence. Watch as this display becomes brighter each week to reflect the growing light and clarity of God’s revelation, culminating in the full radiance of Christ’s birth at Christmas. We also invite you to ponder God’s amazing stories represented by the symbols placed on the altar each Sunday. As we wait for the fullness of Christmas, may this light call us to look up, look around, and be amazed at the God who comes close—bringing hope, peace, joy, and love, even in the places you least expect it. May you find wonder in the work God is doing in your life this Christmas! FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER Mission Project for December: White Gift Offering During the four Sundays of Advent, we will be collecting to replenish the Deacon’s Fund, which is money available to members of our church in need. Look for the specially designated green sleigh as you enter the sanctuary. You can give cash or make a check out to FMC designated White Gift. Let’s fill the sleigh to help others on their way! Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs The Garaway Pirate Power Pack Program, sponsored by the Sugarcreek United Church of Christ, meets monthly to pack over 350 bags full of food for local students. We will be collecting the following items over the next several weeks to help provide food for this program: Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans cans of chicken noodle soup THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS April Shupe: Bruce and Sue are visiting Megan and Brent this Sunday; Bruce is doing better and will be here next Sunday. Mennonite Mission Network: Praise God that Caleb Schrock-Hurst, who serves jointly with Mennonite Mission Network and Virginia Mennonite Missions, has successfully finished his cancer treatments and is cancer free. Now, he and his wife, Stephanie, are moving forward with their plans to respond to an invitation to go to Mennonite Christian Hospital in Taiwan. Pray for physical and spiritual health as they resume preparations that were put on hold for the past year. THIS WEEK Dec. 21 st Happy Anniversary, Wayne & Dorothy Schrock NEXT WEEK Guest Minister: Ernie Hershberger Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy Head Usher: Herb Torgler UPCOMING EVENTS Dec. 24 th Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 6pm LAST WEEK Attendance: 18 Offering: $2045 Change for a dollar: $34.35 Garaway Power Pack: $40 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim Office Contact: Linda Yoder Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Advent 2025: Be Amazed! First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio December 7, 2025 Worship: 9:30 am Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. ***************************************­ We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ****************************************** We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. __________ THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER __________ Advent Two: Peace in the Valley of Bones ~Gathering~ Preludes: “O Little Town of Bethlehem” -arr. Mark Hayes For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above, While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wond’ring love. O morning stars together proclaim the holy birth! And praises sing to God the king, and peace to all the earth! Welcome& Announcements Opening Hymn: VT 237 Now the Heavens (listen to verse 1, sing verse 2) Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:1-5 “Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded! For work is being done in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.” Focus Statement: Imagine a valley full of dry bones, with not a breath of wind. Then a noise, a rattling sound as the bones come together, bone to bone, tendon to tendon. In this miraculous vision given to the prophet Ezekiel, God breathes life into the bones so that they may dance again. Come, Holy Spirit! We pray on this second Sunday of Advent for peace as a renewal of body, mind, and spirit. Time of Meditation : “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” -performed by The Piano Guys Call to Worship: Leader: God in our desert, you are our peace to all places. People: Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are cut off completely. Leader: Thus says the LORD GOD: “Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.” People: Can these dry bones live? Leader: The wind of God moves among these dry bones. Stand and live! People: We are the people of God, a vast multitude, filled with God’s Spirit. Leader: “I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live. I will place you on your own soil; then you shall Know that I, the LORD, have spoken and will act,” says the LORD. All: You are the only source of true life, O God. You breathe new life into our dry bones and fill us with your peace. We stand before you, ready to enter your story and be amazed. Opening Prayer Advent Candlelighting Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter) Leader: We have been wandering in the dark, our spirits dry and cracked from conflict, aching for peace to pour into the crevices to revive us. People: Come, Peace of the world. Come amaze us. All: May Your peace fill the cracks in our dry, brittle bones. Bind us together, strengthen and unite us, that we might dance! Hymn: HWB 174 Bless’d Be the God of Israel ~Praying & Praising~ Old Testament Scripture : Psalm 130:1-8 (NIV) Prayers of the People Christmas Carol: HWB 191 O Little Town of Bethlehem -accompanied by Kaleb Brasee ~Hearing God’s Word~ Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-14 Be Amazed Story: “Peace in the Valley of Bones” -read by Nancy Yoder Message: “ Breathe on us Spirit of God; restore life, peace, and hope!” ~Responding~ Hymn of Response: HWB 26 Holy Spirit, Come With Power -performed by Berlin Mennonite Church (the offering will be brought forth at this time) Offering Prayer ~Sending~ Benediction Sending Hymn: HWB 356 Breathe on Me, Breath of God -accompanied by by Sangah Noona Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19 Postlude : Come, Gentle Peace -music by Lloyd Larsen, Words by Joseph Martin and Jonathan Martin Come gentle peace, sing to our pain, Comfort the world, let the healing begin. Bring us your goodness, show us your dream, Teach all creation your beautiful theme. WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader Helene Torgler Song Leader: April Shupe Usher: Herb Torgler Cover Art: Can These Bones Live? by Josh Tiessen, is a painting representing the dry bones story in Ezekiel. He writes: I approached my painting as a modern interpretation, seeing the Monarch Butterfly as symbolic of breathing new life into lifeless human bones. Advent 2025: This year, our theme is, “Be Amazed!” Each week, we’ll be invited to notice the surprising and powerful ways in which God shows up—even when we least expect it. We invite you to immerse yourself in the visuals and explore the theme, “Be Amazed!” in several ways: *One way is through the picture you will see each week on the big screen as you walk into the sanctuary. Even before the service begins, you can look at the picture and along with it, the introductory scripture which you can read in the Bibles located in the pews, or bring your own Bible. This way you can contemplate the story of the scripture passage and prepare for the worship to follow. *Another way we invite you to explore the theme is through the symbol of a star. The stars remind us of God’s mysterious and guiding presence—distant yet near, powerful yet gentle. Like the blazing stars in the sky, God’s glory is sometimes hidden from view by our distractions, expectations or the “clouds” of daily life. Yet, the light of God is always shining—waiting for us to notice. Just as the Magi followed the star to find Christ, we too are invited to look up, notice, and be amazed by God’s presence. Watch as this display becomes brighter each week to reflect the growing light and clarity of God’s revelation, culminating in the full radiance of Christ’s birth at Christmas. We also invite you to ponder God’s amazing stories represented by the symbols placed on the altar each Sunday. As we wait for the fullness of Christmas, may this light call us to look up, look around, and be amazed at the God who comes close—bringing hope, peace, joy, and love, even in the places you least expect it. May you find wonder in the work God is doing in your life this Christmas! FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER________ Mission Project for December: White Gift Offering During the four Sundays of Advent, we will be collecting to replenish the Deacon’s Fund, which is money available to members of our church in need. Look for the specially designated green sleigh as you enter the sanctuary. You can give cash or make a check out to FMC designated White Gift. Let’s fill the sleigh to help others on their way! Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs The Garaway Pirate Power Pack Program, sponsored by the Sugarcreek United Church of Christ, meets monthly to pack over 350 bags full of food for local students. We will be collecting the following items over the next several weeks to help provide food for this program: Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans cans of chicken noodle soup Lessons and Carols Service at St. Joseph Catholic Church is this evening at 6:00 p.m. (prelude beginning at 5:30). The public is invited to join in this special community Advent service. The service will include choirs from the surrounding area, a brass ensemble, hand-bell choir, the singing of carols, and readings from Sacred Scripture. THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS ____________________ Brad Shupe: Dad is home and is doing well after hip replacement. THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR ________________________ April Shupe: Sue had to take Bruce to the ER this morning, prayers for healing. Mike Gehman: Friend who has brain cancer needs prayers. Also, Barb Debor, the Lutheran minister, is on life support. THIS WEEK _______________________________________ Dec. 7th Lessons & Carols at St. Joseph in Dover, 5:30 pm Dec. 11 th Happy Birthday, Sue Stauffer NEXT WEEK ________________________________ Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer Head Usher: Herb Torgler LAST WEEK __ _______________ _______ __ Attendance: 16 Offering: $951 Change for a dollar: $17 Food Bank: $50 White Gift: $10 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim: 1-330-407-9291 Office Contact: Linda Yoder: 1-330-204-1668 Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus: 1-330-243-0263 Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler: 1-330-852-2151 Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt: 1-330-243-4485

Advent 2025: Be Amazed! First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio November 30, 2025  Worship: 9:30 am Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. ***************************************­ We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ****************************************** We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER Advent One: Hope in the Furnace ~Gathering~ Preludes: "I Wonder as I Wander" - Appalachian folk song --arr. Jay Rouse "I wonder as I wander out under the sky..." "In the Bleak Midwinter" --arr. Larry Shackley Welcome& Announcements Opening Hymn: VT 237 Now the Heavens v1 Advent Scripture: Habakkuk 1:1-5 The prophecy that Habakkuk the prophet received. How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, a conflict abounds. Therefore the law is paralyzed, a justice never prevails. The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted. “Look at the nations and see! Be astonished! Be astounded! For work is being done in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.” Focus Statement: Imagine stepping into a blazing furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abendigo in a trial by fire, trusting God with your life. Although today’s trials seem less terrifying, they are still trials—stories of injustice, poverty, and tragedy from our lives, communities and the larger world. At the beginning of Advent, as the light dims, and we wonder how long we must wait, we also tell amazing stories of hope, stories of a God who saves so that we may emerge singing: Oh, great is the Lord! Thy name shall endure! Let heaven and earth, oh, let all sing Thy praise! Time of Meditation: "O Lord of Light, Who Made the Stars / "Of the Father's Love Begotten" - arr. Curt Oliver Call to Worship: Leader: God of our ancestors, you are our constant hope through all ages. People: We come eager for stories of you standing among us. We come longing to feel your presence among your people once again. Leader: As the days darken around us, hope can feel a distant memory. People: Even in the middle of trials, we keep our eyes on you. Our allegiance is to you alone. Leader: Trust in God’s steadfast love. Stand in amazement, ready to recognize God already among us here, in this place. All: Our hope is in you, O God. Fill our hearts with the courage of our ancestors. Ready us to enter their story and be amazed. Opening Prayer Advent Candlelighting Litany (Mike Keim, candlelighter) Leader: We have been wandering in the dark, fear engulfing us like a burning furnace. We long for your hope to find us and silence the flames of our fears. People: Come, Hope of the world. Come amaze us! All: May your hope flood the flames of our fears. Hymn: VT 210 O Come, O Come, Immanuel ~Praying & Praising~ Old Testament Scripture : Psalm 26:1-7 Prayers of the People Christmas Carol: VT 265 Angels, from the Realms of Glory ~Hearing God’s Word~ Scripture: Daniel 3:1, 8-30 Be Amazed Story: Hope in the Furnace -read by Brad Shupe Message ~Responding~ Hymn of Response: VT 570 When We Walk with the Lord (the offering will be brought forth at this time) Offering Prayer ~Sending~ Benediction Sending Hymn: HWB 79 Lord, With Devotion We Pray Sending Words: Habakkuk 3: 17-19 Postlude : "Cold December Flies Away" - Spanish carol arr. by Anna Laura Page WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader April Shupe Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer Song Leader: April Shupe Usher: Leadership Team Cover Art: Adrianoupolitis Konstantinos (ca. 1750-1799) - The story of Daniel and the Three Youths in the Fiery Furnace FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER Mission Project for November: Dover-Phila Food Bank The Dover-New Phila Food Pantry’s mission is simple: No one in need is ever turned away, and recipients can come anytime they are open and from anywhere. They are a community-based food pantry supported by the community. Please make out checks to FMC and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month to the Food Bank. (today is the last day to donate) Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs The Garaway Pirate Power Pack Program, sponsored by the Sugarcreek United Church of Christ, meets monthly to pack over 350 bags full of food for local students. We will be collecting the following items over the next several weeks to help provide food for this program: Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans cans of chicken noodle soup Lessons and Carols Service at St. Joseph Catholic Church is on Sunday December 7, 6:00 p.m. (prelude beginning at 5:30). The public is invited to join in this special community Advent service. The service will include choirs from the surrounding area, a brass ensemble, hand-bell choir, the singing of carols, and readings from Sacred Scripture. THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS Mike Gehman: Thankful Hannah and I are here today and are on the mend. Sue Stauffer: Classmate from Arizona came through and met with 6 other classmates, we all had a great time. THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is not doing well and is very ill. He will be starting another round of chemo and might have to move back to hope lodge. THIS WEEK Dec. 1 st Happy Birthday, Rick Maurer Dec. 5 th Happy Birthday, Alex Snyder Dec. 6th Light Up Sugarcreek, 4-6:30 pm Dec. 7th Lessons & Carols at St. Joseph in Dover, 5:30 pm NEXT WEEK Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: Helene Torgler Head Usher: Herb Torgler LAST WEEK Attendance: 16 Offering: $1210 Change for a dollar: $36 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim Office Contact: Linda Yoder Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Anabaptism At Five Hundred First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio November 23, 2025  Worship: 9:30 – 10:30 Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00 We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. *************************************** We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ********************************************* We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER Anabaptism at 500 Belief Nine: Communion ~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~ (around tables) Welcome and Announcements Focus Statement: The Lord’s Supper is the last meal that Jesus shared with his disciples before he was crucified on the cross. While eating this meal of bread and wine, Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” Communion is the religious practice of sharing bread and wine (or juice) as part of a worship service. Anabaptists in the sixteenth century differed from the state churches in their understanding of communion. Anabaptists understood the bread and cup as symbols of the body and blood of Jesus, rather than believing that an actual transformation of the elements took place. Anabaptists shared communion as a way to remember and renew their commitment to the church community and to the teachings of Jesus. Anabaptists also began the practice of serving communion to one another, instead of requiring a priest to do so. This understanding of ministering to one another is known as the Priesthood of All Believers. Scripture: Luke 22:19-20 “Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.’” Time of Meditation : HWB 94 Come, Ye Thankful People Call to Worship: Leader: As God’s people, we have gathered. We may be discouraged, dismayed, discordant with life. People: Let us sit together, sharing the solace of silence. Let us possess the peace of God’s presence and be wrapped in the warmth of God’s love. Let us be comforted and quieted, prepared for communion with God and fellowship with one another. Invocation Hymn of Gathering: HWB 17 We Gather Together ~Storytelling~ Early Anabaptist Story from Martyrs Mirror: Story about the Sacraments – read by April Shupe Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1: Medicine for Christ’s Body?: Pilgram Marpeck, 1531 Narrator –Hannah Gehman, Spiritualist – Mike Gehman, Marpeck – Reno Stevanus ~Praising and Praying~ Hymn of Praise: HWB 86 Now Thank We All Our Prayers of the People ~Storytelling and Communion~ Global Story: Cheyenne Peace Chief Lawrence Hart read by – Helene Torgler Scripture: Colossians 3:1-17 Reader 1 – Bertie Showers Reader 2 – Bruce Stauffer Reader 3 – Nancy Yoder Hymn: HWB 453 Let Us Break Bread Together From the Schleitheim Confession, Article Third . Concerning the breaking of bread we have become one and agree thus… – read by Suzanne Stauffer Communion Service (sharing of the bread and the cup with each other) Invitation to the Communion Table Leader: As John baptized Jesus in the Jordan, the Holy Spirit baptized the body of Christ. God now gathers us at these tables as the body of Christ to hear the voice of heaven, spoken over the waters of baptism, saying, “You are my beloved.” People: Water, bread, and wine, the gifts of the earth, the gifts of the church, reveal that we belong with God and one another. Leader: Come with your hunger. Come with your thirst. ALL: This is Christ’s table. This is our feast. Come, Holy Spirit! Communion Prayer—Inspired by Early Christian Practice Leader: May God be with you! People: And also with you. Leader: Lift up your hearts! People: We lift them up to God. Leader: Let us give thanks to God . People: It is good to give thanks and praise. Leader: It is a good and joyful thing always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Holy One. With your people on earth and all the company of heaven we praise your name and join their unending hymn: ALL: Holy, holy, holy, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in your name. Hosanna in the highest. Leader: And so we proclaim this mystery of faith: ALL: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. Leader: We praise you, all holy God, the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit, today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen! ALL: Amen! Leader: Let us pray together the Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen. Leader: The gifts of God for the people of God. People: Thanks be to God. (Share the bread and cup.) ~Responding~ Prayer after Communion – Iona Community Leader: In deep gratitude for this moment, this time together, these people, we give ourselves to you. People: Send us to live as changed people because we have shared the Living Bread and cannot remain the same. Ask much of us, expect much from us, enable much by us, encourage many through us. All: So, God, may we glorify you as inhabitants of earth and citizens of heaven. Amen. Hymn of Response: HWB 472 I am the Bread of Life v. 1, 4, 5 HWB 96 We Plow the Fields and Scatter ~Sending~ Benediction Sending Hymn: VT 812 Sent Forth by God’s Blessing Sending Words: ALL: We’ve seen diversity as a sign of love, and so we put on love and live as one. (The Passing of the Peace) WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer Head Usher: Leadership Team Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs: In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families. “The materials gathered together in this book beautifully illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.” -John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the Study of Global Anabaptism As residents of Holmes and Tuscarawas counties, oftentimes we each have been asked, “Are Mennonites Amish?” and “What do you believe that’s different from other Protestant denominations?” It’s sometimes hard to come up with an explanation of our faith. Hopefully this series of worship services (that will be spread out through this year of Anabaptism at 500) will enable us to answer these questions more accurately. We are basing this series on the above-mentioned book. In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back. FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER Mission Project for November: Dover-Phila Food Bank The Dover-New Phila Food Pantry’s mission is simple: No one in need is ever turned away, and recipients can come anytime they are open and from anywhere. They are a community-based food pantry supported by the community. Please make out checks to FMC and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month to the Food Bank. Special Thanksgiving / Christmas Project: Garaway Pirate Power Packs The Garaway Pirate Power Pack Program, sponsored by the Sugarcreek United Church of Christ, meets monthly to pack over 350 bags full of food for local students. We will be collecting the following items over the next several weeks to help provide food for this program: Ramen noodles cans of corn cans of green beans cans of ravioli cans of tomato soup cans of pork and beans cans of chicken noodle soup Bill & Jean Flinner new address: 1000 Addington Dr. Apt. 129 Russell, KY 41169 THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS April Shupe: Thankful that Darcy Miller and Mike Gehman are both here with us today. Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is finished with his chemo, he needs infusions but is starting to feel better. THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR Tabatha Murphy: Dylan’s grandma, Malinda Hamilton, had abdominal surgery, prayers for a speedy recovery. April Shupe: Melanie Blauch Archer has diverticulitis, also Dick Douthitt is in the hospital. THIS WEEK Nov. 25 th Happy Birthday, Suzie Armstrong Nov. 30 th Advent Begins NEXT WEEK Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: April Shupe Head Usher: Leadership Team LAST WEEK Attendance: 23 Offering: $1533 Change for a dollar: $22.03 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674 Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim Office Contact: Linda Yoder Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Taste and See That the Lord is Good!  First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio November 9, 2025 Worship: 9:30 am Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. ***************************************­ We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ****************************************** We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER ~Gathering~ Prelude: "We Gather Together" - arr. Cindy Berry Welcome& Announcements Focus Statement: In response to God’s invitation to the wedding feast of the Lamb, we must give a joyful “yes” through faith and repentance, responding with consistent communion, which is a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, and a life of perpetual thanksgiving for his unending grace. Time of Meditation: "God Is Here Among Us" - arr. Lee Dengler Call to Worship: (based on Psalm 34) (By Rev. Joanna Harader, from SpaciousFaith.com) Leader: I will bless the Lord at all times; People: We will bless our God at all times. Leader: I will praise the Holy One with my voice. People: Let us exalt God’s name together. Leader: We are seeking, People: And God will answer us. Leader: We cry out for help, People: And God will deliver us. Leader: God will deliver us from our fears. People: God will hear us and save us. Leader: So come now, let us worship together. All: Let us taste and see that our God is good. Invocation Hymn of Gathering: VT 47 God of Our Strength ~Praying & Praising~ Prayers of the People Hymn of Praise: VT 467 Taste and See ~Hearing God’s Word~ Scripture: Luke 15: 20-24 – Read by Bruce Revelation 19:6-9 – Read by April Message: “The Table Is Set” ~Responding~ Hymn of Response: As We Gather At Your Table (in bulletin) (the offering will be brought forth at this time) Offering Prayer ~Sending~ Sending Hymn: VT 831 Blest Be the Tie That Binds Benediction: Leader: I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ. And to know this love that surpasses knowledge–that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. All: Now to God who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Postlude: "Bind Us Together: - arr. Mark Hayes Sending Words WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Guest Minister: Darcy Miller Worship Leader Tabby Murphy Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer Song Leader: April Shupe Usher: Leadership Team FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER Reminder: There will be no church service held at FMC next Sunday, November 16 th . Please visit a church of your choice! Mission Project for November: Dover-Phila Food Bank The Dover-New Phila Food Pantry’s mission is simple: No one in need is ever turned away, and recipients can come anytime they are open and from anywhere. They are a community-based food pantry supported by the community. Please make out checks to FMC and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month to the Food Bank. Bill & Jean Flinner new address: 1000 Addington Dr. Apt. 129 Russell KY, 41169 THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS Sue Stauffer: In November we will have two daughters with birthdays. Kristy Keim: Mike Gehman is home from the hospital Bertie Showers: Brother Abe and Fran show up when April is gone to sit with me, Fan has had a knee surgery but is doing good. THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR Dan Hostetler: Friend went through first surgery and will have second surgery in 2months. Sue Stauffer: Jim Cahill is in intense therapy with chemo and can’t have stem cell transplant until in remission. Kristy Keim: Hannah is still struggling with her back pain. Nancy Yoder: Son, Dan, has hurt his knee at work. THIS WEEK Nov. 10 th Happy Birthday, Braden Shupe Nov. 12 th Happy Birthday, Amy Stauffer-McNutt Nov. 16 th Church Visitation Sunday (no church at FMC) UPCOMING EVENTS Nov. 23 rd Thanksgiving Sunday Nov. 30 th Advent Begins IN TWO WEEKS Note: On Sunday, November 23 rd , we will continue our Anabaptist at 500 celebration, meeting in the SS room beside the office. Worship Leader: Dan Hostetler Head Usher: Leadership Team LAST WEEK Attendance: 16 Offering: $875 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim Office Contact: Linda Yoder Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Anabaptism At Five Hundred First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio November 2, 2025  Worship: 9:30 – 10:30 Fellowship Time: 10:30 – 12:00 We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. *************************************** We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ********************************************* We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER Anabaptism at 500 Belief Ten : Believers Baptism ~Gathering in the Royal Bible Classroom~ (around tables) Welcome and Announcements Focus Statement: The believer’s church is a community of people who have chosen to live out the gospel of Jesus Christ together. For Anabaptists, believers’ baptism is the practice by which a youth or adult joins a believer’s church community. The believer’s church is separate from the civil government. Baptism can happen in several ways. It may include the sprinkling or pouring of water on an individual’s head; sometimes the person is immersed completely in water. Scripture: Luke 3:21-22 Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. Time of Meditation : VT 555 Lord, I Am Fondly, Earnestly Longing Call to Worship: (Ephesians 4:1-6) Leader: Lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called. People: Be humble and gentle in every way. Be patient with each other and lovingly accept each other. Leader: Through the peace that ties you together, do your best to maintain the unity that the Spirit gives. People: There is one body and one Spirit. In the same way, we were called to share one hope. ALL: There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Creator of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all. Invocation Hymn of Gathering: VT 387 We Are One in the Spirit ~Scripture and Stories~ Early Anabaptist Story: Anna Manz – Bertie Showers Early Anabaptist Story in Drama #1: “Baptisms in Felix Manz’s House: January 21, 1525” Background – Worship Leader, Narrator – Reno Stevanus, Reader 1 – Kristy Keim, Reader 2 – Bob Gerber ~Praising, Praying and Responding~ Hymn of Praise: HWB 438 I Sing with Exultation Prayers of the People ~Storytelling~ Global Story: Wencesiao Flores and his wife Anatilde – Bruce Stauffer Drama from the Martyrs Mirror: “I Appeal to the Scriptures: Michael Sattler,1527” Background – Worship Leader, Narrator - Helene Torgler , Count – Dan Hostetler, Sattler – Mike Keim, Clerk – Tabby Murphy Hymn: VT 576 Who Now Would Follow Christ Scriptures: Galatians 3:26-28 – Nancy Yoder Matthew 28:16, 18-20 – Suzanne Stauffer ~Responding~ Prayer of Confession – read by congregation: Sky-shattering God, we confess that we have not always paid much attention to the baptism of Jesus, but viewed it as a nice story which begins Jesus’ ministry. We don’t always see ourselves as standing in that long line of those marked for service; and therefore it is easy for us to dismiss this as a nice story and nothing more. Yet you have called us by name, knowing each of us, and loving us. We are astonished by this. We know that we have behaved in very unloving ways and in some behaviors which do not promote your love and peace Forgive us for our blindness. Turn us around. Help us to be people who not only recognize the light, but who are willing to live in that light, bringing help to others in your name. For we pray this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Words of Assurance Hymn of Response: VT 556 I Bind My Heart This Tide Offering Prayer ~Sending~ Sending Hymn: VT 443 I Have Decided to Follow Jesus Benediction Prayer WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Minister: Mike Gehman Worship Leader: April Shupe Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer Head Usher: Leadership Team Our On-Going Series on Anabaptist Beliefs: In 2018 Lisa Weaver and Elizabeth Miller, as part of the Bearing Witness Stories project, wrote a book for children entitled Let the Children Come to Me: Nurturing Anabaptist Faith within Families. “The materials gathered together in this book beautifully illustrate the central convictions of the Anabaptist tradition.” -John D. Roth, Director of the Institute for the Study of Global Anabaptism As residents of Holmes and Tuscarawas counties, oftentimes we each have been asked, “Are Mennonites Amish?” and “What do you believe that’s different from other Protestant denominations?” It’s sometimes hard to come up with an explanation of our faith. Hopefully this series of worship services (that will be spread out through this year of Anabaptism at 500) will enable us to answer these questions more accurately. We are basing this series on the above-mentioned book. In conjunction with our Anabaptist at Five Hundred celebration this year, we would love to have pictures of any community, service and/or peace experiences our church members have experienced over the years. Please give to April or Tabby who will scan them into the computer. You will get them back. FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER Mission Project for November: Homeless Shelter of Tuscarawas County (more info coming next week) THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS Bertie Showers: Thank you for all the prayers, I am feeling better. THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR Sue Stauffer: Friend, Janice Stouffer has died, prayers to friends and family. Also, French pen pal’s husband, Eric Main fell and is in the hospital. Jim Cahill’s cancer is back and will be starting chemo next week. Mike Gehman is in Cleveland Clinic and is getting the care he needs. Also, Hannah is having sciatica problems and is having problems walking. April Shupe: Kathy Smith Miller’s husband had a UTI that prevented surgery. Also, her sister, Judy fell and broke her hip, she will need a hip replacement. Amy Hostetler: Toby Kirks died suddenly leaving behind an ill mother and young niece. NEXT WEEK Guest Minister: Darcy Miller Worship Leader: Tabatha Murphy Head Usher: Leadership Team UPCOMING EVENTS: Nov. 16th Church Visitation Sunday (No church at FMC) Nov. 23rd Thanksgiving Sunday Nov. 30th Advent Begins LAST WEEK Attendance: 25 Offering: $1640 Change for a dollar: $18 Meat Canning: $125 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor: Mike Gehman: 1-330-749-674 Email: pastor@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30a.m.-2:30p.m Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim Office Contact: Linda Yoder Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio October 26, 2025  Worship: 9:30 am Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. ***************************************­ We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ****************************************** We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER ~Gathering~ Prelude: “This Is My Father’s World” – arr. Lloyd Larson “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” – arr. Lloyd Larson Welcome& Announcements Focus Statement: How do we live to be in the world but not of the world? There is so much in our culture that is innocent and wonderful in and of itself and can draw us towards God. But there are many other aspects of our culture that seduce us and pull us away. How do we manage this tension? Time of Meditation: “Bist du bei mir” – J.S. Bach, arr. by John Carter Call to Worship: (adapted from Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, 2024) Leader: We gather today as people brought together by grace and bound together in the family of God. People: May God draw us together in love. Leader: We are part of the people called Anabaptists, a movement planted in the soil of prayer, Scripture reading, community, bearing witness, baptism of consenting adults, worship, nonviolence, steadfast faith, communion, service, and stewardship. People: May we be nourished and flourish in this soil. Leader: In our heritage we have example of extreme courage in following Jesus. People: We believe that Jesus is the center of our faith; community is the center of our lives, and reconciliation is the center of our work. Leader: We are part of a movement warmed by the Spirit and watered by Christ. People: May we sink our roots deep and extend our branches high as we drink in the food of grace. Leader: We are part of the people called Anabaptists, yes, but more than that, we are God’s people, connected to every Christ follower who was, who is, and who will be by a network of roots tangled together in love. ALL: May we never stop seeking to comprehend the breadth, length, height, and depth of the love of Christ that roots us, grounds us, and binds us together. Amen. Invocation Hymn of Gathering: VT 571 O God, We Read the Holy Law tune: A Mighty Fortress by Martin Luther, 1529; words by Michael Schneider, 1554) (Sue will play the rhythmic version in the hymnal as an introduction but we will sing the standard version of the tune.) ~Praying & Praising~ Prayers of the People Hymn of Praise: VT 797 We Are People of God’s Peace words based on Menno Simons’, 1552; music by Johann Horn, 1544 ~Hearing God’s Word~ Scripture: Romans 12:1-2 – Amy Stauffer-McNutt; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 – Brad Shupe; Psalm 137:1-6– Nancy Yoder Hymn: HWB 148 By the Waters – April Shupe and Amy Stauffer-McNutt, song leaders Message: “Preserving, Borrowing, and our Anabaptist Heritage” – Dr. Perry J. Bush ~Responding~ Hymn of Response: VT 583 O Christ, Impart Your Teaching True, - words by Michael Sattler, 1527 (the offering will be brought forth at this time) Offering Prayer ~Sending~ Sending Prayer Sending Hymn: VT 759 Take my Life and Let It Be Postlude: “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” – arr. Lee Dengler Sending Words – Dr. Perry Bush WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Guest Speaker: Dr. Perry Bush Worship Leader Bruce Stauffer Pianist: Suzanne Stauffer Song Leader: April Shupe Usher: Mike Keim Biography – Dr. Perry J. Bush Emeritus Professor of History Dr. Perry Bush joined the Bluffton faculty in 1994. During his 30 years, Dr. Bush has been the historian’s voice of not only Bluffton’s campus history, but also captured important stories and impact of organizations in the northwest Ohio region, and for the Mennonite church. Perry served Bluffton’s faculty in many administrative roles, served in the community with local non-profits and in 2012, was selected as a Fullbright Scholar. But most importantly, Dr. Bush provided his students with transformative learning experiences through his passionate and lively teaching of history. The service music and hymns for this service were chosen because of their time period and source, both with the lyrics and with the tune. Hopefully, they also re-state the theme for our worship. Another hymn that elaborates on the theme is VT 585 - Faith Begins by Letting Go. FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER Please join us today for a Heritage Sunday Carry-in Dinner in the Fellowship Hall following coffee and cookie time. Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning Your help is needed to fund MCC meat canning in Kidron: They are grateful for the volunteers who will help can 30,000 pounds of turkey in the Gerber Building behind Central Christian School from October 20-23. However, they are struggling to raise the necessary funds to pay for the canning. While they were able to secure a loan from MCC that enables the canning to move forward without delay, they need to raise $40,000 to repay the cost of the meat and canner operations . Please consider supporting this important project, helping people in need around the world, providing important nutrients through canned meat. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, earmarked for Meat Canning and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month. 100 Year Huddle: Timeline In preparation for our 100-year anniversary we will be making a timeline of events and people who have been part of our church. Please join us after the church service to help us begin to write down people and events that have been a part of our church. The timeline is located in the S.S. room beside the office. THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR April Shupe: Kathy Smith Miller’s husband Mark is battling bladder cancer. Also, Mom’s pain is getting better but she is still struggling with it. Hannah Gehman: Mike was admitted into Cleveland Clinic. Mennonite Mission Network: JCS International’s leadership at all levels and, especially for Gerlee (many Mongolian people identify with a single name), in her role as interim executive director. May God’s Spirit guide this leadership transition and pray for more long-term workers to help with the many opportunities to serve in Mongolia. THIS WEEK Oct. 31st Happy Birthday, Nancy Yoder Oct. 31st Happy Birthday, Amy Hostetler Nov. 1st Happy Birthday, Dan Yoder Jr. Nov. 2nd Happy Birthday, Ambrosia Snyder UPCOMING EVENTS Nov. 16th Church Visitation Sunday (no church at FMC) Nov. 23rd Thanksgiving Sunday NEXT WEEK Note: Next Sunday we will continue our Anabaptist at 500 celebration, meeting in the SS room beside the office. Worship Leader: April Shupe Head Usher: Leadership Team LAST WEEK Attendance: 16 Offering: $756 Change for a Dollar: $10 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim Office Contact: Linda Yoder Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt

First Mennonite Church Sugarcreek, Ohio October 19, 2025  Worship: 9:30 am Coffee & Fellowship Time: 10:30 am We believe in Jesus and take his life, teachings, death and resurrection as the model for how we live and the message we proclaim. ***************************************­ We seek to be a caring and discerning community, the gathered body of Christ, that welcomes all to join in worship, study, and service. ****************************************** We embody God’s transforming and redeeming Spirit in the world through our prophetic witness and action. THE CHURCH WORSHIPS TOGETHER ~Gathering~ Prelude: “Prelude religioso” -Ludwig van Beethoven Welcome& Announcements Focus Statement: Is faith a gift or a choice? Is it something God does in us or something we do for God? You guessed that the answer is “Yes,” no doubt. Faith is a mixture of all that and more. It is a partnership with God as we enter into a relationship for our good and the good of the world around us, the community around us. We are choosing every day to live by our faith, to be shaped by our faith, and to submit all our actions and relationships to the measure of faith. Today, we examine what it means to be people of faith. We are the people who are choosing faith. Time of Meditation: “Learning to Lean” -John Stallings Call to Worship: Leader: Destruction and violence are everywhere; strife and contention are all around People: The needs of the world are so great; All: O Lord, increase our faith. Leader: The law is slack, and justice does not prevail. People: The needs of the world are so great; All: O Lord, increase our faith. Leader: How many threats surround us; warfare, homelessness, loneliness, loss. People: The needs of the world are so great, but you, O God, are greater still –the One in whom all things are possible. All: O Lord, increase our faith in you! Invocation Hymn of Gathering: HWB 86 Now Thank We All Our God ~Praying & Praising~ Old Testament Scripture : Lamentations 3:19-26 Prayers of the People Hymn of Praise: HWB 327 Great Is Thy Faithfulness ~Hearing God’s Word~ Scripture: Luke 17:5-10 Homily: “Moving Forward in Faith” -April Shupe ~Responding~ Hymn of Response: HWB 565 My Faith Looks Up To Thee Offering Prayer ~Sending~ Sending Hymn: HWB 357 O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee Sending Prayer: Leader: Saviour Christ, increase our faith, People: that we may trust the unseen truths as more important than bland or trivial physical possessions. Leader: Loving God, increase our hope, People: that we may reach out for a better tomorrow and be undaunted by temporary setbacks. Leader: Inspiring Spirit, increase our love, People: that we may put into the world something of the joy and compassion which you put into our lives. ALL: For the sake of your new world, and to your praise and glory. Amen! Postlude: “At Calvary” -arr. Daniel B. Towner Sending Words WORSHIP 9:30-10:30 Worship Leader Helene Torgler Song Leader: April Shupe Guest Pianist: Shirley Homan Usher: Mike Keim FMC LIVES IN DISCIPLESHIP TOGETHER Mission Project for October: MCC Meat Canning Your help is needed to fund MCC meat canning in Kidron: They are grateful for the volunteers who will help can 30,000 pounds of turkey in the Gerber Building behind Central Christian School from October 20-23. However, they are struggling to raise the necessary funds to pay for the canning. While they were able to secure a loan from MCC that enables the canning to move forward without delay, they need to raise $40,000 to repay the cost of the meat and canner operations . Please consider supporting this important project, helping people in need around the world, providing important nutrients through canned meat. Make checks payable to First Mennonite, earmarked for Meat Canning and Bruce will send one check at the end of the month. 100 Year Huddle: Timeline In preparation for our 100-year anniversary we will be making a timeline of events and people who have been part of our church. Please join us on Oct. 26 th after the church service to share your stories and memories and help us to complete the timeline. Please bring a cover dish from one of the church’s cookbooks. THE CHURCH GIVES THANKS Tabatha Murphy: Bill is home from the hospital; he is doing well but still has a drainage tube. THE CHURCH PRAYS FOR April Shupe: Bertie is feeling pain in her hip and arm, might be inflamed. THIS WEEK Oct. 20 th Happy Birthday, Pong Sixiengmay Oct. 20 th Happy Birthday, Hannah Gehman Oct. 21 st Happy Birthday, Jon Gerber Oct. 21 st Happy Birthday, Jaden Murphy Oct. 23 rd Happy Birthday, Ila Miller Oct. 25 th Happy Birthday, Ron Meyer Oct. 26 th Heritage Sunday w/ Guest Speaker Perry Bush from Bluffton College and Carry-In Meal following worship UPCOMING EVENTS Nov. 23 rd Thanksgiving Sunday NEXT WEEK Worship Leader: Bruce Stauffer Head Usher: Mike Keim LAST WEEK Attendance: 19 Offering: $250 Change for a Dollar: $30 CHURCH LEADERSHIP Pastor’s Hours: Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm Church Secretary: Tabatha Murphy Church Phone: 1-330-852-2822 Email: office@firstmennonitesugarcreek.com Website: http//fmcsugarcreekoh.org Address: 113 W. Main St. P.O. Box 250 Sugarcreek, OH 44681 CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM: Chairperson: Mike Keim Office Contact: Linda Yoder Mission Contact: Reno Stevanus Trustees Contact: Dan Hostetler Secretary Contact: Amy Stauffer-McNutt