June 4, 2023 • 11 AM
YOUTH SUNDAY
COVID-19 Guidelines Our current COVID-19 safety policy is “masking by choice.” Everyone on our campus may choose to wear a mask at any time as an additional precaution to protect themselves and those around them. We will respect everyone’s choice in this matter. To learn more about the policy, visit asburyfirst.org/news/2022/6/june-covid-masking-update. FIRST TIME HERE We are so glad you are joining us, whether in person or online. If you’re out there watching, check in through the website or take a picture and post it on social media using #asburyfirstathome. If you're in the pews, please sign in on the red fellowship pad and pass it down your pew. Our hope is to get to know you better and help you find your place within our community. Additionally, drop us an email at info@asburyfirst.org. ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL Large print bulletins and hymnals are available from the ushers. A hearing loop is available for those who have hearing aids with T switches, and you may also request earphones from the ushers to aid you in hearing the service. The screens located toward the back of the sanctuary now display the service stream to aid in visibility. Need prayer? We invite you to share with us how we can be praying for you by emailing prayers@asburyfirst.org or by filling out one of our prayer cards found in the pews. All prayer requests are prayed over by our Ministers and Intercessory Prayer Team. Children We believe children are a sacred gift, and they are welcome in our worship. Children will be invited forward during worship for a Children’s Time. Following this, children ages 4 through 5th grade are invited to go with our children’s educators for further enrichment or return to their caretaker for the remainder of the service. If there is more our Children's Ministry can do, please contact Paula Dugan at pdugan@asburyfirst.org or at 585-271-1050 x111. RECONCILING STATEMENT We are a reconciling congregation and seek to be a fully inclusive church, believing that all people are God’s children. We encourage full participation in our community for all, regardless of age, race, origin, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, family structure, education/economic background, and physical/mental ability. We recognize that we hold a variety of opinions. We do not seek to erase our differences, but to journey together in faith toward greater understanding and mutual respect. We believe that reconciliation to God and to one another is central to our mission and ministry. GIVE TO ASBURY FIRST There are multiple ways to make a gift to Asbury First. Each gift supports the everyday ministries and operations of this church, allowing us to live into our vision to Do More Good. Cash/Check—We welcome you to send a gift of cash/check in the mail or in the basket on your way out of the sanctuary following the service. Text to Give—You may give a gift with a debit/credit card by texting the dollar amount to 206-222-1050. Online—Online giving is available on our website at asburyfirst.org/give. Venmo—You may give a gift through Venmo by finding “@givingasburyfirst” or by scanning the QR code to the right. Watch and listen Tune into the live video stream of the 11 am service at asburyfirst.org/live-stream. To listen to the service tune into WRFZ 106.3 FM Rochester Free Radio, or call our toll-free number at 833-829-1050. A video archive of past services is also available at asburyfirst.org/archive.
Prelude Emily Clark, Piano
Waltz in A-flat Major, Op. 42 — Frederic Chopin
*Call to Worship Elliott Beach
We gather together today, reminded that we are all children of God — Young and old, black and white, gay and straight, trans and cis, democrat and republican, and everything between and beyond. We gather together as one people — One people, united in Christ, to do more good in this world. May our worship this morning reflect our call to love, live, serve, and repeat. May it be so today and every day. Amen.
*Processional Hymn
#203 "Hail to the Lord's Anointed" (Note: Online users may click the link of the title to access the hymn)
Welcome Ellie Cady & Mallory Hildreth
*Gathering Hymn
#378 "Amazing Grace", vv. 1-2
Prayer of Confession Bella Bucci
Gracious God, we are called to be a joyful people, giving thanks and doing more good. There are times, however, when we fall short. We push joy to the side, and we choose harm over help. We are self-centered, distracted, and afraid. We focus on our lack, rather than your love. Lift our eyes, O Lord, and renew our joy in you.
Silent Confession Alé Bucci
Words of Assurance Gio Bucci
We are reminded that in Christ, there is always forgiveness. There is absolutely nothing that can separate us from the joy and love of God. Because we are all children of God, we are forgiven. Amen.
* please stand as you are able
11 am • June 4, 2023
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The community gathers As the community gathers, may the music of the prelude draw your hearts and minds to God.
First Sunday after Pentecost Youth Sunday
11 am
Presentation, Vows, and Baptism
Shayera Adaeze Asala, born January 23, 2020, daughter of Mary & Chukwuma Asala
Congregational Response
Members of the household of faith, I commend to your love and care this child, whom we this day recognize as a member of the family of God. Will you endeavor so to live that she may grow in the knowledge and love of God, through our Savior Jesus Christ? With God's help we will so order our lives after the example of Christ, that this child, surrounded by steadfast love, may be established in the faith, and confirmed and strengthened in the way that leads to life eternal.
Hymnal #611, v. 1
Child of blessing, child of promise, baptized with the Spirit's sign; with this water God has sealed you unto love and grace divine.
Scripture 1 Timothy 4:7-16 Gillian Allen
Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives’ tales. Train yourself in godliness, for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and struggle,because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. These are the things you must insist on and teach. Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.
*Gloria Hymnal #102, v. 3, alt.
All glory be to God, all praise and thanks be given; Whose Son and Spirit reign as one in highest Heaven; Our one eternal God, whom earth and heaven adore; For thus it was, is now, and shall be evermore.
TO HEAR THE WORD
TO CELEBRATE BAPTISM
Anthem Youth Choir Carol Lamica, Director Sean Mahan & Charlie Bohrer, Soloists David Strong, Piano
“Like an Eagle” – Carl Strommen Now is the time to follow the wind, to walk alone. And a star will show the way above the clouds, beyond the sea. And now is the time, and now and farewell, and as we part You taught me well, you gave me strength, you showed the way; I'll not forget you. (Refrain:) Like an eagle I will soar above the clouds; I will spread my wings and fly into the sun. Like an eagle I will race above the stars; I will fly to places yet unseen, go beyond my wildest dreams, Know that you are watching over me. And all alone I will follow the stars above As my guide, I trust in you To show the way to me beyond the sea. And now is the time, and now and farewell, and as we part You taught me well, you gave me strength, you showed the way; I'll not forget you. (Refrain) Alone, I can fly with the eagle to the mountain high, Race with the eagle so far beyond my dreams; Like an eagle I will fly. (Refrain) I'm gonna fly the highest mountain, fly above the clouds; Like an eagle I will fly.
Children's Time Gillian Allen, Lydia Beach, Joscelyn Crawford
Children of all ages are invited to join us in this special moment.
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.
*Hymn
#378 "Amazing Grace", vv. 3, 6
Offertory Youth Bell Choir, Carol Lamica, Director Gillian Allen & Hannah Cady, Saxophone duet
"Awesome God" — Rich Mullins, arr. Catherine McMichael "Evermore" from Beauty and the Beast — Alan Menken
*Doxology Hymnal #94
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
To Renew Commitment
Introduction to Discipleship, Membership, and Commitment Charlie Cady
We are delighted you have joined us and ask that you sign and pass the ritual of friendship pad from the center aisle down the pew. We invite you to prayerfully consider making a gift to support the everyday ministries and operations of this church, allowing us to live into our vision to Do More Good. There are multiple ways to make a gift to Asbury First: Cash/Check—We welcome you to send a gift of cash/check in the mail or place it in the offering plate as it is passed to you. Text to Give—You may give a gift with a debit/credit card by texting the dollar amount to 206-222-1050. Online—Online giving is available on our website at asburyfirst.org/give. Venmo—You may give a gift through Venmo by finding “@givingasburyfirst” or by scanning the QR code to the right.
Sermon
Youth: Bailey Ashton Charlie Bohrer Claire Clark Emily Clark Emma Giordano Sean Mahan Emma McQuillan QP Parks Sophie Sieffert ,
Pastoral Prayer Sean Cundy
*Prayer of Dedication Jack Giordano
Our God of love, we share these gifts to help make our community and this world a better place. Help us to also recognize the gifts in each of us and to use our gifts to do more good in the world every day. Amen.
Participants In the Service
Worship Leaders: Youth of Asbury First Youth Preachers: Bailey Ashton, Charlie Bohrer, Claire Clark, Emily Clark, Emma Giordano, Sean Mahan, Emma McQuillan, QP Parks, Sophie Sieffert Liturgists: Mike Mullin, Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady Organist: David Strong Youth Choir and Bells: Carol Lamica, Director Head Usher: Brian White Audio Operator: Rick Church Video Operator: Kenny Bailey Graphics Operator: Griffin Allen Technology Support Team: Deb Bullock-Smith, Carolyn Curran, Ted Skomsky Technical Consultant: Justin Ocello
“Like an Eagle” © 1994 Alfred Publishing Co. Inc. Hymns © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; OneLicense.net #A-721053. Illustration Credits: Designed by Sarah Brubaker and Freepik and Vecteezy.
*Recessional Hymn
#733 "Marching to Zion"
*Benediction
Postlude
"Postlude in D" — Healey Willan
To Disperse in Mission
Permissions:
Celebrations and concerns
Are you interested in taking the next step in your faith journey, finding your place in the life of Asbury First, or are just in need of a deeper connection?
Help Me Connect
ALTAR FLOWERS The flowers on the altars are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Diana and William Svenheim by their family. Have you noticed the lone sunflower on the altar? The sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine. In solidarity with Ukraine, we will have a single sunflower on the high altar until the war ends. Want to help? You can support the United Methodist Committee on Relief's (UMCOR) Ukraine special advance online at asburyfirst.org/give. Please note "Ukraine", or mail a check to the church office at 1050 East Ave. We will collect these special donations and send them on to UMCOR. If you would like to place flowers on the altar, please contact Jeanne Ristau at 585-223-4356, preferably two weeks ahead of requested date. Prayers and Concerns We offer our prayers and concerns for all those who are ill at home, hospitalized, or in hospice care. We offer our prayers and concerns to the family of Rev. Dr. Ted Weeden, who died on April 2. His memorial service will be held on July 8 at 11 am. We offer our prayers and concerns to the family and friends of Bob Fitch, who died on April 6. A memorial service will be held on June 15 at 1 pm. We offer our prayers and concerns to the friends and family of Rev. Bill Burdick, who died on April 30 in Pennsylvania. A memorial service will be held on June 18 at 2 pm. We offer our prayers and concerns to the friends and family of John Braund, who died on April 10. A service will be held on June 17 at 10 am. We offer our prayers and concerns to Sally Sands-Shutt and her family on the death of her husband, James Sands, on May 15. A memorial service will be held on June 9 at 1 pm. We offer our prayers and concerns to the friends and family of Merilyn Israel, who died on May 22. We offer our prayers and concerns to the friends and family of Karen Webster, who died on May 23. We offer our prayers and concerns to Diana Raplee and her family on the death of her husband, Durwood Raplee, on May 27. We offer our prayers and concerns to the friends and family of Jeff Fraser, who died on May 31. Service arrangements are pending.
Scan the QR code, visit asburyfirst.org/help-me-connect, or call the office at 585-271-1050 to connect.
Sunday No 9 am Service 9:45 am As the Spirit Moves Us—1050 Teak Room 11 am Worship Service In-Person and Livestream 12 pm Lunch—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 12 pm Library Bibliocart—1040 Gathering Center 12 pm Church-wide Carnival and Talent Show MONday 9 am Monday Morning Crew—1040 Tuesday 8:30 am Lectio Divina—Zoom (zoom.us/j/8347173468) 9:30 am Tuesday Morning Women's Fellowship —Zoom (zoom.us/j/8347173468) 2:30 pm Disciple II Bible Study—Zoom (zoom.us/j/8347173468) 3 pm Gentle Yoga—1040 Gathering Center, $10 pay at the door Wednesday 7 am Breakfast—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 7 am Men’s Fellowship Group —Zoom (zoom.us/j/6174865464) 6 pm Believe: The Gospel According to Ted Lasso Class—1040 Gathering Center Thursday 7 am Breakfast—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 4 pm Gentle Yoga—1040 Fellowship Hall, $10 pay at the door 6 pm UR Well Clinic—1010 COC Evarts UR Well Clinic friday 7 am Breakfast—1010 COC Dining & Caring Center 1 pm James Sands Memorial Service—1040 Sanctuary 7:30 pm University of Buffalo Choirs Concert —1040 Sanctuary Saturday 12 pm LGBTQ Vow Renewal service —1040 Sanctuary
Univ. of Buffalo Choirs
Meetings & Rehearsals June 4–10
Church-wide Carnival and Talent Show
For a full list of events with links, visit our online calendar at asburyfirst.org/events or call the church office at 585-271-1050
Queerfully & Wonderfully Made
Sunday Sermon Podcast
There’s Something for Everyone at Asbury First!
Inclusive Wedding Vow Renewal
Church Conference for Columbarium and Open Town Hall
Immediately following the Church Conference, the Governing Board will hold another open town hall to share updates on various aspects of our life together and to answer your questions. If you have specific questions, please call the church office at 585-271-1050 or email us at governance@asburyfirst.org.
Sunday, June 11, Following the 11 am service
We will hold a vote at a special Church Conference on Sunday, June 11 about the Columbarium. If you have questions about the Columbarium or would like to inquire about securing a niche, please contact the church office at 585-271-1050, or email us at columbarium@asburyfirst.org.
New Class in June!
BELIEVE:
Led by Emily and Stephen Cady Do you BELIEVE? Like an American Football coach who somehow finds himself managing a British football (soccer) team, sometimes the gospel shows up in the strangest places. Join us as we explore the rich gospel themes of the award-winning show Ted Lasso (available on Apple TV+) and have some fun doing it. The class will begin June 7 at 6 pm, in the Gathering Center and is open to all adults. If you are interested in joining us, please email Deb Bullock-Smith at dbullocksmith@asburyfirst.org or call the church office. Go Richmond!
Wednesdays, June 7, 14, & 21, 6 pm, Gathering Center
The Gospel According to Ted Lasso
Children and Youth Ministry Feedback Survey
As we wrap up another year of ministry, we would love to get your feedback so that we can plan for a fall that reflects the mission of Asbury First, while meeting the needs of our families. All children, youth, parents/guardians, and counselors are encouraged to participate in the survey.
Visit asburyfirst.org/news or scan the QR code to fill out the form.
9 am Service — In-person OUTSIDE (in inclement weather, the service will be moved inside) 11 am Service — Live-stream and in-person
Give Online at www.asburyfirst.org/GIVE, text to give at 206-222-1050, OR MAIL IN YOUR CHECKS TO 1050 EAST AVENUE, ROCHESTER, NY 14607
JUNE 11 – SEPTEMBER 3
Sunday June 4 (Youth Sunday) will have only one service at 11 am. Outdoor summer worship will begin on Sunday, June 11.
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#203 "Hail to the Lord's Anointed"
Online readers, click the "Return to Page" to quickly get back to the worship portion of the bulletin.
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*Recessional Hymn (cont'd)
