August 17, 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
Hymn arrangements — John S. Dixon: “Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” “What A Friend We Have in Jesus” “Be Still My Soul” “He Leadeth Me”
*Call to Worship
All are invited to read the bold-faced type; the reader will read the unbolded type. From the rising of the sun until it sets, may we praise God’s holy name. On the lips of children and in the actions of all people, may we praise God’s holy name. In the dreams and visions of the old and the young, may we praise God’s holy name. In the banquet hall as we rejoice and celebrate, and in the darkest places of the world, may we praise God’s holy name. Let all that has life and breath praise the holy name of God! Let us worship God!
*Processional Hymn
#698 "God of the Ages"
*Greeting and Passing the Peace
*Gathering Hymn
#578 “God of Love and God of Power”, vv. 1, 4
* please stand as you are able
11 am • August 17, 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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Tenth Sunday after Pentecost
Words of Assurance
Beloved Friends, hear the good news. God loves us unconditionally. God has already forgiven us and God works within us as we forgive ourselves and others. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven. Thanks be to God. 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 Luke 12:49-56 (New Revised Standard, Updated)
(Jesus said:) “I have come to cast fire upon the earth, and how I wish it were already ablaze! I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what constraint I am under until it is completed! Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division! From now on five in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three; they will be divided: father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” He also said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you immediately say, ‘It is going to rain,’ and so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, ‘There will be scorching heat,’ and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? The Word of God for the People of God. Thanks be to God.
To hear the word
11 am
Prayer of Confession
God, you know what we wish we could change; you know our selfishness, our anger and resentment, our fear and our apathy, our hardness of heart, our places of darkness. God, you know us as you have made us; you know our selflessness, our peaceful ways, our trust and work for justice, our compassion, and our places of enlightenment. In your mercy, with your grace, forgive us, lead us to change what needs to be changed and shine your light in the world.
Silent Confession
Sermon
Fiery Love
Call to Prayer
From every stormy wind that blows, from every swelling tide of woes, there is a calm, a sure retreat: ‘tis found beneath the mercy seat. There is a scene where spirits blend, where friend holds fellowship with friend, and heaven comes down our souls to greet, around one common mercy seat. (Words: Hugh Stowell, 1828; Music: Felix Mendelssohn, Nocturne from "A Midsummer Night's Dream" incidental music, adapt. Carl Johengen)
Pastoral Prayer
Anthem Solo Quartet
“Guide My Feet” — Spiritual, arr. Wendell Whalum Guide my feet while I run this race, for I don't want to run this race in vain! Hold my hand while I run this race... Stand by me while I run this race... Guide my feet while I run this race...
Children's Time
Children of all ages are invited to join us in this special moment.
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
#474 “Precious Lord, Take My Hand”
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Offertory
“God of the Ages” — Carl Johengen, based on the hymns St. Catherine and St. Anne; words by Ruth Duck, and from Psalm 90 Lord, you have been our stronghold from one generation to another. O God, our help in ages past! God of the ages, now and past, thankful of heart, we turn to you. God of the faithful year by year, grant us your mercies ever new. God of the ages, hear our prayer; all generations know your care. God of our parents, teachers, friends, you gave them grace to walk your way. May we, like them, arise to meet challenges, risks of our new day. God of the ages, hear our prayer; all generations know your care. God of the present, guide us now; send us your Spirit’s holy flame. Acting in courage, speaking love, may we bring honor to your name. God of the ages, hear our prayer; all generations know your care. God of the future, grant us faith, courage for ventures yet unknown. God, to the church your love has built, now to their labors add our own. God of the ages, hear our prayer; all generations know your care. Lord, you have been our stronghold; cause the work of our hands to prosper!
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.
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:
“Guide My Feet” arr. © Estate of Wendell Whalum; “God of the Ages” words © 1992, music © 1997, GIA Publications, Inc.; Hymns © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; OneLicense.net #A-721053. Illustration Credits: Designed by David Stith
Participants In the Service
Preacher: Rev. Kathy Thiel Liturgists: Rev. Pat Dupont, Mike Mullin Reader: Miriam Derivan Director of Children's Ministry: Paula Dugan Organist: Duane Prill Soloists: Heather Holmquest, Brenda Nitsch, Dan McInerney, Carl Johengen Director of Music Ministry: Dr. Carl Johengen Crucifer, Acolyte: Sean Cundy, Cindy Haag Head Usher: Dennis Roote, Tommy Johnson, Jr. Production Director: Kenny Bailey Production Suite Team: Rick Church Noel Nichols Technology Support Team: Dave Rice, Kenny Bailey, Dave Berg, Larry Dugan, Rick Church
To Disperse in Mission
*Recessional Hymn
#555 “Forward Through the Ages”
*Benediction
Postlude
Flourish on “Salzburg” — Douglas E. Wagner
*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
Thank you, God, for your love within us all. Thank you for the ways your love gives strength and meaning to our time, talent and treasure. Accept all of the gifts we offer to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and bring your Light and Love to all people. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
Preacher: Rev. Kathy Thiel Reader: Miriam Derivan Director of Children's Ministry: Paula Dugan Musician: Carl Johengen
SIGN IN HERE
9 am • August 17, 2025
Let us know you're here! Scan to sign in for the 9 am service
Welcome
found on pg. 3
*Opening Song
"This Is the Day" (Songs can be found on a single page handout.)
found on pg. 4
*Passing the Peace
Scripture
Luke 12:49-56 (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
“Be Thou My Vision”
Help Me Connect
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!
Intergenerational Flag Football
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?
Celebrations and concerns
ALTAR FLOWERS The flowers on the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Jack Latshaw by his wife Donna and family, and in honor and celebration of Gary and Ruthellen Hoyle’s 50th wedding anniversary given by their Discipleship Group. 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. Memorial Service details will be shared when 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.
Asbury First NAMI Walks Team
Scan the QR code, visit asburyfirst.org/help-me-connect, or call the office at (585) 271-1050 to connect.
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
scan here to learn more
ZOOM KEY
The Collaborative Makers Gatherings continue to meet monthly! We hope you'll join us Saturday, August 23 from 1 to 3 pm in the Gathering Center. For more information, email programs@asburyfirst.org
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
August 23, 1 - 3 pm in the Gathering Center
Collaborative Makers Gathering
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 (Church Offices Closed for Staff Retreat) 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 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 1 pm Collaborative Makers Gathering — 1040, Gathering Center SUNDAY (8/24) 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 17 – August 24
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
Banned Book Club
Join the Banned Book Club as we gather to discuss Casey McQuiston's "Red, White & Royal Blue," a sweet, romantic comedy which explores themes of love, identity, and navigating public and private lives. Contact Mike Mullin at mmullin@asburyfirst.org for more details.
New Tutor Training/Orientation: Wednesday August 20, 2025 — 9 to 10:30 am Monday August 25, 2025 — 9 to 10:30 am All orientations are held at 1000 North Winton Rd. If you are interested in tutoring please contact John Smalt at programs@asburyfirst.org or at (585) 924-8624.
August COC Chapel Challenge
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.
Community Market Days
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.
Wednesdays, from 4 to 7:30 pm on the Granger Lawn
BOOK SALE!
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.
HELP ME READ seeks more tutors!
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 (the final Community Market of the summer will be held on August 27).
Postcards to Voters
Library Book Sale at the Wednesday Market
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
Niches have arrived!
Scan the QR code learn more or visit asburyfirst.org/columbarium
Monday, September 15, 7 - 8 pm, Red Room and via Zoom
School Supplies Drive
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.
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
We're collecting school supplies for Pre-K through 6th grade students at School 17 from August 17 through September 7 in the Welcome Hall. Simply leave donations at the table. Items needed: backpacks, crayons, pencils, erasers, pens, markers, scissors, rulers, glue sticks, pencil boxes, folders, binders, notebooks, hand sanitizer, and tissues. Thank you for your support! Questions? Contact John Smalt at (585) 924-8624 or programs@asburyfirst.org.
Tell us your Favorite Hymn!
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Love God and Neighbor. Live Fully. Serve All. Repeat.
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!
July 27, 2025