September 14, 2025
9 & 11 AM WORSHIP
Participants In the Service
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost Liturgist: Rev. Kathy Thiel Reader: David Kay Musician: Dr. Carl Johengen
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PRELUDE WELCOME *CALL TO WORSHIP (found on the facing page) *OPENING SONG: #436 “The Voice of God Is Calling” PRAYER OF CONFESSION (found on the facing page) *PASSING THE PEACE SCRIPTURE: Luke 15:1-10 (found on page 4) CHILDREN'S TIME 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. PRAYER SERMON INVITATION TO DISCIPLESHIP AND ENGAGEMENT OFFERING OURSELVES TO GOD'S PURPOSES *CLOSING SONG: #127 “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” *BENEDICTION POSTLUDE
14th Sunday after Pentecost
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PRELUDE: “Sheep May Safely Graze” — J.S. Bach “The Good Shepherd” — Dom Paul Benoit “The Lord’s My Shepherd” — arr. Don Hustad INTROIT O God of font and altar, of music, grandeur, light; toward whom the soaring arches aspire beyond their height: as beauty draws us to you within this house of prayer, let worship form and feed us to help us show your care. (Words: Carl P. Daw, Jr.; Music: Carl Johengen) *CALL TO WORSHIP God seeks those who have wandered far. We gather, grateful to be found by love. God rejoices over one who is restored. We gather to share in the joy of mercy. God’s compassion is wider than we can imagine. We gather to worship the One who never gives up on us. *PROCESSIONAL HYMN: #436 “The Voice of God Is Calling” *WELCOME *GATHERING HYMN: #334 “Sweet, Sweet Spirit” PRAYER OF CONFESSION Merciful God, we confess that we wander. We turn from your ways and chase what does not last. We get lost in fear, pride, and self-interest. Too often, we believe we are beyond your reach—or we begrudge the mercy you give to others. Forgive us. Find us in our hiding places, lift us from our despair, and restore us to the joy of your presence. Amen. SILENT CONFESSION WORDS OF ASSURANCE When we think we are too far gone, God surprises us with welcome. When we feel invisible, God searches until we are seen. In Christ, we are gathered back, embraced with love, and celebrated with delight. Thanks be to God! *GLORIA (#102, “Now Thank We All Our God”, 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 15:1-10 (The Message) By this time a lot of men and women of questionable reputation were hanging around Jesus, listening intently. The Pharisees and religion scholars were not pleased, not at all pleased. They growled, “He takes in sinners and eats meals with them, treating them like old friends.” Their grumbling triggered this story. “Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? When found, you can be sure you would put it across your shoulders, rejoicing, and when you got home call in your friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Celebrate with me! I’ve found my lost sheep!’ Count on it—there’s more joy in heaven over one sinner’s rescued life than over ninety-nine good people in no need of rescue. “Or imagine a woman who has ten coins and loses one. Won’t she light a lamp and scour the house, looking in every nook and cranny until she finds it? And when she finds it you can be sure she’ll call her friends and neighbors: ‘Celebrate with me! I found my lost coin!’ Count on it—that’s the kind of party God’s angels throw every time one lost soul turns to God.” The Word of God for the People of God. Thanks be to God. ANTHEM: Dan McInerney and Jordan Bachmann, soloists; Annette Farrington, flute “The Lord’s My Shepherd” — Brother James’ Air, arr. Roger Price; words based on Psalm 23 The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want. He makes me down to lie In pastures green; he leadeth me the quiet waters by. My soul he doth restore again, and in his love abide. Yea, though I walk in death’s dark vale, yet will I fear no ill; For thou art with me; and thy rod and staff my comfort still. My table thou hast furnished, my cup thou overfills. Goodness and mercy all my life shall surely follow me; And in God’s house forevermore my dwelling place shall be. And in God’s house forevermore my dwelling place shall be. 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: #443 “O God Who Shaped Creation” SERMON CALL TO PRAYER The eyes of all look to you, O Lord, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing. (Psalm 145:15-16; Music by Carl Johengen) PASTORAL PRAYER OFFERTORY: Sanctuary Choir “The Ninety and Nine” — words and music by Laura Lea Duckworth, based on Luke 15:3-7 A shepherd in the wilderness who has a hundred sheep, When one is lost, does he not seek the one, and leave the ninety-nine themselves to keep? The shepherd goes into the night, on mountain’s top or desert bare, to seek the one, the truly lost and lone, the one who needs the shepherd's love and care. And when the shepherd finds his lamb, so frightened and alone, He lifts it to his shoulders and gives thanks to God that now his flock is whole. When he is once again returned, rejoicing for the one he holds, All heaven sings and celebrates far more for this lost one, than for the ninety-nine within the fold.
As the community gathers, may the music of the prelude draw your hearts and minds to God. (* Please stand as you are able.)
OFFERTORY: Sanctuary Choir “The Ninety and Nine” — words and music by Laura Lea Duckworth, based on Luke 15:3-7 A shepherd in the wilderness who has a hundred sheep, When one is lost, does he not seek the one, and leave the ninety-nine themselves to keep? The shepherd goes into the night, on mountain’s top or desert bare, to seek the one, the truly lost and lone, the one who needs the shepherd's love and care. And when the shepherd finds his lamb, so frightened and alone, He lifts it to his shoulders and gives thanks to God that now his flock is whole. When he is once again returned, rejoicing for the one he holds, All heaven sings and celebrates far more for this lost one, than for the ninety-nine within the fold. (cont'd) Make us your shepherds, loving Christ, that we might each become one who will seek the lost, when one is found, Your kingdom comes, Lord Christ, your kingdom comes. *DOXOLOGY: (Hymnal #95) 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. OR Creator, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. *PRAYER OF DEDICATION God of joy, we return these gifts as a sign of gratitude for your mercy that never fails. Use them to seek the lost, to lift the broken, and to bring joy where there is despair. May our lives, as well as our offerings, reflect your relentless love. In Jesus’ name, Amen. *RECESSIONAL HYMN: #127 “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” *BENEDICTION *BENEDICTION RESPONSE: Amen. (Gerald Peterson) POSTLUDE: Epilogue on “Lobe den Herren” — Lani Smith
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 Ourselves 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—To give a gift through Venmo, send to “@givingasburyfirst” or scan the QR code to the right.
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.
“The Ninety and Nine” © 2011 St. James Music Press; "The Lord's My Shepherd" © 2014 St. James Music Press; Hymns © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; OneLicense.net #A-721053. Illustration Credits: Designed by David Stith
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost Liturgists: Rev. Kathy Thiel, Rev. Pat Dupont, Mike Mullin Reader: Dave Kay Director of Children's Ministry: Paula Dugan Organist: Duane Prill Sanctuary Choir Section Leaders: Juli Elliot, Brenda Nitsch, Dan McInerney, Jordan Bachmann Director of Music Ministry: Dr. Carl Johengen Crucifer, Acolyte: Andrew Hunt, Elizabeth Church Altar Guild Team: Marlyn Agard, Martha Tuke, Angie Burch Head Ushers: Dennis Roote, Tommy Johnson, Jr. Production Director: Kenny Bailey Production Suite Team: Rick Church, Ethan Hildreth, Noel Nichols Technology Support Team: Dave Rice, Kenny Bailey, Dave Berg, Larry Dugan, Rick Church
Permissions:
Every Wednesday at 10 am through October 15, in the Red Room (1010) and on Zoom* (see pg 8), we'll discuss How We Learn To Be Brave by Episcopal Bishop Marian Edgar Budde, a book about responding with clarity and grace in tough times. Bishop Budde teaches that bravery is a daily journey of living according to our true beliefs and best selves, providing fortitude for uncertain times. Questions? Contact programs@asburyfirst.org
You're invited to a very special morning retreat, Saturday, October 18 from 9 am to 12:30 pm in Fellowship Hall. Topics will include Hospitality and Welcoming, Personal Mission Statement, Relationships, and Dreams. Register by October 15. All ages welcome. Paula Dugan will lead a morning focused on the same topics for children. Questions? Contact Colleen Schantz at (585) 353-2260.
Celebrations and concerns
Wednesday Morning Book Study
ALTAR FLOWERS The flowers on the altars are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Linda Crawford, Emily Ann Short, and Susan J. Crawford by David Crawford and family. 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 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.
Everyday Encounters with God: A Morning Retreat
Meetings & Rehearsals SEPTEMBER 14 – SEPTEMBER 21
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
Sunday 9 am Worship Service – In-Person in the Sanctuary 9:45 am Adult Sunday School – 1040, Fellowship Hall (lower level) and Zoom # 9:45 am As the Spirit Moves Us – 1040, Smart Meeting Room (lower level) and Zoom^ 10 am Sanctuary Choir Warm Up – 1040, Sanctuary 11 am Children's Sunday School – 1040, 2nd Floor, Ed. Wing PreK - 2nd grade – Room 201 3rd - 5th grade – Room 201 11 am Worship Service – In-Person and Livestream 12 pm Lunch – 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center 12 pm 6th-8th and 9th-12th Grade Youth Groups – 1040, Lower Level, Fellowship Hall 2 pm 20th Century Vox! Fundraising Concert — 1040, Gathering Center 2 :30 pm Anastasia Rehearsal — 1040, Fellowship Hall MONday 9 am Library Work Day — Library 1040 9 am Monday Morning Crew — 1040 7 pm Banned Book Club — 1010, Red Room and Zoom * Tuesday 8:30 am Lectio Divina — Zoom # 9:30 am Tuesday Morning Women's Fellowship — Zoom # 2:15 pm Disciple III Bible Study — Zoom # WEdnesday 7 am Breakfast — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center 7 am Men’s Fellowship Group — Zoom # 10 am Wednesday Morning Study Group — 1010, Red Room and Zoom * 5 pm Hallelujah Kids Choir — 1040, Room 201 5:30 pm Community Dinner — 1040, Gathering Center 6 pm Wednesday Evening Programming — 1040, Wesley Hall (lower level) and Zoom # 6 pm Wesley Singers & Ringers — 1040, Room 201 6 pm Anastasia Rehearsal — 1040, Fellowship Hall 6:30 pm Asbury Ringers— 1040, Room 205 7:30 pm Sanctuary Choir — 1040, Wesley Hall Thursday 7 am Breakfast — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center 8 am Spiritual Perspectives — Zoom ^ 9:30 am Morning Prayer — 1040, Sanctuary 10 am Asbury First Civics Team — 1010, Red Room, Zoom * 6 pm URWell Clinic— 1010, COC 6 pm Anastasia Rehearsal — 1040, Fellowship Hall FRIDAY 7 am Breakfast — 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center 12:30 pm Asbury Women's Art Class — 1040, Room 205 2:15 pm Disciple V Bible Study — Zoom # 12:30 pm Asbury First Women's Art Class — 1040, Room 205 SATURDAY 8 am Grocery Bag Ministry — 1010, Dining & Caring Center SUNDAY (9/21) Columbarium Consecration Ceremony (after 11 am Worship) 9 am Worship Service – In-Person in the Sanctuary 9:45 am Adult Sunday School – 1040, Fellowship Hall (lower level) and Zoom # 9:45 am As the Spirit Moves Us – 1040, Smart Meeting Room (lower level) and Zoom^ 10 am Sanctuary Choir Warm Up – 1040, Sanctuary 11 am Children's Sunday School – 1040, Education Wing PreK - 2nd grade – Room 206 3rd - 5th grade – Room 201 11 am Worship Service – In-Person and Livestream 12 pm Lunch – 1010, COC Dining & Caring Center 12 pm 6th-8th and 9th-12th Grade Youth Groups — 1040, Lower Level, Fellowship Hall 2:30 pm Anastasia Rehearsal — 1040, Fellowship Hall
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
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What is NAMI and why are we walking?
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Rochester Speakers Series is a new literary arts, nonprofit organization that brings award-winning authors and thought leaders in person to Rochester. We will be holding our flagship series, Speaking of Stories, at Asbury First. The first event featuring David Grann (Killers of the Flower Moon, The Wager) will be held on October 7 at 7 pm in the Sanctuary. Ticket information and program details are available at www.rochesterspeakers.org
Join us Wednesday, September 24 at 6 pm in Wesley Hall and on Zoom to learn about the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization. We'll explore NAMI's mission, support services, and community impact. Whether seeking resources or ways to help, all are welcome. Contact programs@asburyfirst.org for more information. (Meeting ID: 817 308 7397 password: 624424)
Banned Book Club
Rochester Speaker Series
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.
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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 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
Monday, September 15, 7 - 8 pm, Red Room (1010) and via Zoom
Join us Saturday, November 1 for the East Ave Grocery Run, an annual fundraiser supporting Rochester food programs, including the Asbury First Community Outreach Center. Anyone registering as an Asbury First team member donates their full fee directly to the COC! Invite a friend for a fall morning run/walk supporting Rochester's hungry. Register at runsignup.com/Race/NY/Rochester/EastAvenueGroceryRun
East Ave Grocery Run Returns!
Asbury First NAMI Walks Team
How We Rise Together: One Million Rising is a national effort to train one million people to resist authoritarianism - together. Through a series of trainings and local gatherings. we'll build the strategies, skills and people power it takes to stop our current political administration from seizing more power. this is how we get organized. Cindy Haag will be offering two presentations on how to be a part of One Million Rising. Presentations are in the Red Room at 10 am on Tuesday, September 23 and 6 pm on Tuesday, September 30. Join us for these meaningful presentations.
To celebrate the completion of both the Columbarium and Memorial Garden construction, we're holding a special Consecration Ceremony on September 21 to dedicate this sacred and reflective space. Contact Kathy Thiel to reserve your niche or learn more at kthiel@asburyfirst.org or call (585) 271-1050 x106. Visit asburyfirst.org/columbarium to read more.
The Nicene Creed Turns 1700!*
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the formation of the Asbury Orchestra! A special celebration will take place when they play in the 11 am service on Sunday, November 9, including a new piece composed for the occasion by Asbury First member David Temperley. Instrumental musicians of all ages and skill levels are invited to take part; rehearsals begin on Sunday, September 28 from 9:30-10:30 am in Wesley Hall. To sign up, scan the QR code or contact Laurie Kennedy with questions at lkennedy@asburyfirst.org.
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4th Sunday: Volunteering Engagement
Asbury Orchestra's 30th Anniversary is coming up!
Sunday, September 28, you'll have an opportunity to explore ways to share your time and talents through volunteering as we continue to host our Fourth Sunday Volunteer Engagement Table in the Welcome Hall. Let’s connect. Let’s grow. Let’s do more good.
Columbarium Consecration Ceremony: September 21 after the 11 am Worship Service
Wednesday, September 17, 6 - 7 pm in Wesley Hall and Zoom # Join us for a the final class in this series on the Nicene Creed's 1700th anniversary (*though that may be premature by decades!). We'll explore what led to its writing, why it took 50 years to complete, and what this ancient text offers us today. Questions? Contact Mike Mullin, mmullin@asburyfirst.org
Scan the QR code learn more or visit asburyfirst.org/columbarium
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
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
Love God and Neighbor. Live Fully. Serve All. Repeat.
Today, September 14, 2 - 3 pm in the Gathering Center, come hear Rochester-based vocal quartet 20th Century Vox! Featuring Rebecca Kolstad, Dede Holmes, Bruce Boak, and John Messenger, they'll be singing a cappella arrangements of Jazz Standards, Show Tunes, and other Popular Songs from the 1920s to the 1950s and beyond! Fun for a good cause. Free Will admission proceeds will benefit the Community Outreach Center and NAMI Rochester.
Older Adult Fall Worship & Luncheon
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
Join us on Thursday, October 9, for a special day of worship and fellowship. We'll begin with worship at 11 am in the Sanctuary, followed by lunch at noon in the Gathering Center. This will be a wonderful opportunity to gather together for meaningful worship and share a meal with one another. Please RSVP to Barbara Eltinge at (585) 737-8775 by Friday, October 3, and be sure to indicate any dietary restrictions or food allergies you may have, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free needs.
Every hour in America, a child is shot. Gun violence silences voices — but in Rochester teens are taking the stage to speak out. On October 6, Asbury First joins over 50 communities nationwide for ENOUGH!, presenting six urgent new plays by teen writers confronting gun violence. Join us on October 6 at 7 pm in the Sanctuary for a very special evening. A Good Will Offering will be taken. Learn more here: enoughplays.com/reading
*Processional Hymn
#436 “The Voice of God Is Calling”
*Hymn
#334 “Sweet, Sweet Spirit”
*Gathering Hymn (cont'd)
#443 “O God Who Shaped Creation”
*Recessional Hymn
#127 “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”