August 10, 2025
9 & 11 AM WORSHIP
FIRST TIME HERE We are so glad you are joining worship today, whether in person or online. 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 this community. You can also drop an email to info@asburyfirst.org. If you’re participating offsite, check in through the website or take a picture and post it on social media using #asburyfirstathome. 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 in the sanctuary now display the service stream to aid in visibility. Please help us welcome differently-abled worshipers and visitors by not interacting with or distracting service animals. Need prayer? Share your prayer requests by filling out one of the prayer cards found in the pews or by emailing prayers@asburyfirst.org. All requests are prayed over by the Ministers and Intercessory Prayer Team. Children Children are a sacred gift, and they are welcome in worship. Children will be invited forward during worship for a Children’s Time. Following this, children age 4 through 5th grade are invited to go with the children’s educators for Sunday School or return to their caretaker for the remainder of the service. RECONCILING STATEMENT Asbury First is a reconciling congregation and seeks to be a fully inclusive church, believing that all people are God’s children. Read a full statement at asburyfirst.org/about-us/#reconciling-statement. GIVE TO ASBURY FIRST Your generous gifts support everyday ministries and operations, allowing this church to live into the vision to Do More Good. Cash/Check—We welcome gifts by check in the mail or a cash/check gift placed 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 the 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 The livestream of the 11 am service is found at asburyfirst.org/live-stream. Listen live on WRFZ 106.3 FM Rochester Free Radio, or call this toll-free number: 833-829-1050. The video archive of past services is at asburyfirst.org/archive.
Asbury First United Methodist Church 1050 East Ave, Rochester NY 14607 (585) 271-1050 asburyfirst.org
Staff Emails are typically first initial then last name @asburyfirst.org. (ex. mboguetrost@asburyfirst.org) Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost — Senior Minister, x125 Rev. Kathy Thiel — Minister for Congregational Care, x106 Position funded in part by the Susan Shafer Pastoral Care Fund Rev. Patrick Dupont — Minister for Outreach, x136 Mike Mullin — Minister for Discipleship and Youth, x105 Dr. Carl Johengen — Director of Music Ministry, x134 Position funded in part by the Helen Fultz Music Fund Duane Prill — Principal Organist, x100 Position funded in part by the Craighead Fund David Strong — Assistant Organist Paula Dugan — Director of Hospitality and Children’s Ministry, x111 Holly Temming — Operations Manager; Director of Children's Music, x114 Deb Bullock-Smith — Director of Operations, x117 John Ormsbee — Director of Finance, x107 Johnny Colón — Director of Property Care, x123 David Stith — Director of Communications, x109 Ly Tran — Communications Associate
Prelude
Diapason Movement — John Keeble Cornet Voluntary — John Travers Allegro — Thomas Arne
*Call to Worship
All are invited to read the bold-faced type; the reader will read the unbolded type. We come, believing that faith is the assurance of things hoped for. We come, knowing that faith is the conviction of things not seen. We come convinced of many things, but trusting very few. Holy God of limitless surprises, meet us here. Be with us in this place, as we draw near to things unseen. As we worship, inspire us to grasp in hope all that you show us.
*Processional Hymn
#529 "How Firm a Foundation"
*Greeting and Passing the Peace
*Gathering Hymn
#553 “And Are We Yet Alive”, vv. 1, 2
* please stand as you are able
11 am • August 10, 2025
The community gathers As the community gathers, may the music of the prelude draw your hearts and minds to God.
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Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
Prayer of Confession
God, you have set before us the path, but we have wandered on our own. We can be like toddlers, who hear your voice and return to your side. We can be like children testing boundaries, ignoring your call while we may. We can be full of youthful rebellion, demanding to be cut loose and set free. Remind us continually how much we need your wisdom and guidance. Remind us that we are always your children, and help us to seek your grace each day.
Silent Confession
Words of Assurance
God continually reaches out to us in love, encouraging us along the path of faith. In the name of Christ, we are forgiven and restored. Amen.
*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.
Scripture Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 (New Revised Standard, Updated)
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance, and he set out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he stayed for a time in the land he had been promised, as in a foreign land, living in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith, with Sarah’s involvement, he received power of procreation, even though he was too old, because he considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one person, and this one as good as dead, descendants were born, “as many as the stars of heaven and as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.” All of these died in faith without having received the promises, but from a distance they saw and greeted them. They confessed that they were strangers and foreigners on the earth, for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of the land that they had left behind, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better homeland, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; indeed, he has prepared a city for them. The Word of God for the People of God. Thanks be to God.
To hear the word
Anthem Vacation Bible School Children Carol Lamica, Director
“Peace Like A River” — Traditional Lyrics may be viewed on the monitors.
Children's Time
Children of all ages are invited to join us in this special moment.
11 am
Lord's Prayer
Our Father (or Our God), 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
“We Walk By Faith”
SCAN TO SIGN IN FOR THE 11AM SERVICE
Offertory Brenda Nitsch, Soloist
“City Called Heaven” — Spiritual, arr. Hall Johnson I am a poor pilgrim of sorrow, I’m tossed in this wide world alone, No hope have I for tomorrow; I’ve started to make heaven my home. Sometimes I am tossed and driven, Lord, sometimes I don’t know where to roam. I heard of a city called heaven; I’ve started to make it my home. My mother has reached that pure glory; my father’s still walking in sin. My brothers and sisters won’t own me because I am trying to get in. Sometimes I am tossed and driven, Lord, sometimes I don’t know where to roam. I heard of a city called heaven; I’ve started to make it my home.
Invitation to Discipleship and Engagement
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.
Offering Our Gifts to God's Purposes
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 by check in the mail or place your cash/check gift 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
Hall of Faith (Bee Yourself)
Pastoral Prayer
SCAN TO GIVE VIA VENMO
To Renew Commitment
These persons have shared their gifts today for the glory of God. If you felt moved by what they offered, why not take a moment following worship to let them know. If you feel moved to participate with your gifts in worship, please contact Andrew Hunt at worship@asburyfirst.org.
Permissions:
“Be Like a Tree” © 1994 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music; “City Called Heaven” © 1930 Robbins Music Corporation; Hymns © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; OneLicense.net #A-721053. Illustration Credits: Designed by David Stith
Participants In the Service
Preacher: Mike Mullin Liturgists: Rev. Kathy Thiel Reader: Sean Mahan Director of Children's Ministry: Paula Dugan Organist: Duane Prill Soloist: Brenda Nitsch Director of Children’s Music: Carol Lamica, standing in for Holly Temming Crucifer, Acolyte: Kathie Collier-Bryant Head Usher: Dennis Roote, Tommy Johnson, Jr. Production Director: Larry Dugan Production Suite Team: Rick Church, Joe Blakely Technology Support Team: Dave Rice, Kenny Bailey, Dave Berg, Larry Dugan, Rick Church
To Disperse in Mission
*Recessional Hymn
#127 “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”
*Benediction
Postlude
Trumpet Voluntary — John Bennett
*Doxology
To God, Creator, Son, and Spirit, One in Three, be glory, as it was, is now, and shall forever be. Words: Charles Wesley; Tune: Dennis, Johann Nägeli, arr. Lowell Mason
*Prayer of Dedication
God of Creation and all that is true, we dedicate these gifts to you. Use them to heal the sick, soothe those in prison, clothe the naked, and feed the hungry. Amen.
Preacher: Mike Mullin Liturgist: Rev. Kathy Thiel Director of Children's Ministry: Paula Dugan Reader: Meredith Pixley Musicians: Johanna Mahan, Dave Berg
SIGN IN HERE
9 am • August 10, 2025
Let us know you're here! Scan to sign in for the 9 am service
Welcome
found on pg. 3
*Opening Song
"How Firm a Foundation", vv. 1, 2, 5 (Songs can be found on a single page handout.)
found on pg. 4
*Passing the Peace
Scripture
Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 (found on pg. 4)
Our Father, (or Our God) 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.
Invitation to Discipleship and Engagement, Offering Ourselves to God's Purposes
We are delighted you have joined us and ask that you sign and pass the ritual of friendship pad.
*Closing Song
“Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”
Help Me Connect
Seeking:
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?
Cookie Bakers for Summer!
There's always SO MUCH going on here at Asbury First!
It can be hard to keep up! Sign up for the Email Newsletter, which arrives every Thursday afternoon, as well as the Monday Reader, a weekly look a little deeper into the life of Asbury First through short, colorful articles. visit asburyfirst.org/newsletter to sign up!
Celebrations and concerns
Our coffee hour after the 11 am Sunday Service is fueled by community, coffee and COOKIES! Please consider baking cookies for Asbury First hospitality to help out through the rest of the summer. Drop your cookies off at the church office to be frozen until needed, helping our hospitality team over the summer while ensuring treats after Sunday worship. Contact Paula Dugan: call (585) 271-1050 x111 or pdugan@asburyfirst.org
ALTAR FLOWERS The flowers on the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of our daughter Nina Shah on her August birthday. 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. Our hearts are with the family of Jane Pauly who died on July 16. A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life on Sunday, August 31 at 2 pm. Our hearts are with the family and friends of Bonnie Crossley, who died Tuesday, August 5. Bonnie is Barb Denigris' sister. Details about a Memorial Service will be shared when they are ready. We want to be able to visit and pray with those who are in the hospital. If you know someone who is in the hospital and would like a pastoral call, or if you yourself are in the hospital or have a date for surgery, please call Rev. Kathy Thiel who will be most glad to be with you in that moment. (585) 271-1050 x106.
SCAN TO SIGN UP!
Scan the QR code, visit asburyfirst.org/help-me-connect, or call the office at (585) 271-1050 to connect.
ZOOM KEY
Red Room: * zoom.us/j/8924819492 PW: 578697 Smart Meeting Room: ^ zoom.us/j/6174865464 PW: Disciple Other Spaces and Zoom-only: # zoom.us/j/8347173468 PW: 200
The Prostate Cancer Support Group will be taking a summer hiatus and will not be meeting in August. But we'll be back! Meetings will resume on Tuesday, September 23 at 5:30 pm in the Red Room (1010). We look forward to reconnecting with our community this fall.
Prostate Cancer Support Group - Summer Break
Sunday 9 am Worship Service — In-Person Outside near 1050 11 am Worship Service — In-Person and Livestream 12 pm Lunch — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center MONday 9 am Library Work Day — Library 1040 9 am Monday Morning Crew — 1040 Tuesday 8:30 am Lectio Divina — Zoom # 9:30 am Tuesday Morning Women's Fellowship — Zoom # 2:15 pm Disciple III Bible Study — Zoom # 3 pm Gentle Yoga — 1040, Gathering Center 6:30 pm TransParent Meeting — 1040, Youth Room WEdnesday 7 am Breakfast — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center 7 am Men’s Fellowship Group — Zoom # 10 am Asbury First Civics Team — 1010, Red Room and Zoom * 4 pm Community Market — Granger Lawn Thursday 7 am Breakfast — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center 8:30 am Spiritual Perspectives — Zoom ^ 9:30 am Morning Prayer — 1040, Sanctuary 6 pm URWell Clinic— 1010, COC FRIDAY 7 am Breakfast — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center SATURDAY 8 am Grocery Bag Ministry — 1010, Dining & Caring Center SUNDAY (8/17) 9 am Worship Service — In-Person Outside near 1050 11 am Worship Service — In-Person and Livestream 12 pm Lunch — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center
Meetings & Rehearsals AUGUST 10 – August 17
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
FOR ZOOM ADDRESSES, SEE KEY BELOW
Wednesdays, from 4 to 7:30 pm on the Granger Lawn
Scan the QR code learn more or visit asburyfirst.org/columbarium
Drop by for a host of local vendors, games for kids, and a special food truck. The Market will be here at Asbury First in the Granger Lawn every Wednesday through the end of August!
It's been a long road for the Asbury First Columbarium, but it finally arrived this week! Final installation has begun of the Columbarium niches into the wall in the Memorial Garden. The Memorial Garden will be a sacred place to pray, reflect and meditate. Contact Kathy Thiel to reserve your niche at kthiel@asburyfirst.org or call (585) 271-1050 x106
Looking for a great summer book? The Asbury First Library will be selling books at the Wednesday Community Market from 4 to 7:30 pm on August 20 (rain date August 27). Stop by for a wide selection of children's, teen, and adult books — most priced under $2. All proceeds support new library acquisitions.
Postcards to Voters
Each month we collect different needed supplies for the ministries of the Community Outreach Center. For the August COC Chapel Challenge, we will collect Boys and Men’s sweatpants and gym shorts. A list of other specific items is available at asburyfirst.org/coc. Please drop them off near the rail in the front of the Children's Chapel before or after services.
Library Book Sale at the Wednesday Market
BOOK SALE!
Niches have arrived!
Community Market Days
August COC Chapel Challenge
Join members of the Asbury First Civics Team (an initiative of the Social Concerns Committee) in writing postcards to voters. Bring your best penmanship, a pen and lots of enthusiasm to the Red Room (1010, COC) Wednesdays from 10 am - noon. For more information contact Karen Hibbard at khcrm1000@rochester.rr.com.
Last summer, we had a great time playing softball and kickball, and we decided to try something new this year: Flag Football. Each Sunday in August, we will meet from 6 to 7 pm on the Granger Lawn to play pick-up games of flag football. All ages and skill levels are welcome, and we will create new teams each week. We will provide the flags, the field, and the football, you will just need to bring a sense of fun!
scan here to learn more
Join us for the NAMI Walk on Saturday, September 27, this year starting from Asbury First! NAMI is a grassroots organization supporting individuals and families affected by mental illness. This is Asbury First’s second year fielding a team, and we’d love for you to join us. It's a great way to show support, raise awareness, and walk together for mental health. All are welcome! For more information, contact David Berg at programs@asburyfirst.org
Intergenerational Flag Football
Give Online at www.asburyfirst.org/GIVE, text to give at (206) 222-1050, VENMO VIA THE QR CODE, OR MAIL IN A CHECK TO 1050 EAST AVENUE, ROCHESTER, NY 14607 Facebook and instagram: @asburyfirstumc
Tell us your Favorite Hymn!
Asbury First NAMI Walks Team
The 11 am service on Sunday, August 31 will feature your favorite hymns! Have a beloved hymn we haven't sung recently? Submit your requests to Director of Music Ministry Carl Johengen at cjohengen@asburyfirst.org by August 18. We'll include as many of your submissions as possible in this special service.
Love God and Neighbor. Live Fully. Serve All. Repeat.
July 27, 2025