North Tasmania Lutheran Parish

Last post here

2009-03-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

I have recently accepted a call to the Portland Heywood Lutheran Church, so this will be my last posting here.
Thankyou for visiting.
You are welcome to follow me at http://portlandheywoodlutheran.blogspot.com/ where I will offer information and resources that encourage people in their journey with God.

8th February 2009, Epiphany 4

2009-02-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week:
When life is busy pray

Bible Readings for the week
Isaiah 40:21–31
Psalm 147:1–11, 20c
1 Corinthians 9:16–23
Mark 1:29–39

Hymns and Songs for the week
At 311 Be still and know that I am God
At 485 Praying
At 233 He will listen to you
LHS 426 What a friend we have in Jesus

Sermon for the week: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=132114

1 February 2009, Epiphany 3

2009-02-15T14:21:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week:
Jesus has authority over everything...even your sin

Bible Readings for the week
Deuteronomy 18:15–20
Psalm 111
1 Corinthians 8:1–13
Mark 1:21–28

Hymns/Songs for the week
LHS 161 How sweet the name of jesus sounds
At 31 freely freely
At 246 They word
At 407 the Lord will keep me safe and holy

Sermon: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=132111

25th January 2009 Epiphany 3

2009-02-15T14:14:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week:
What does responding to God's call mean to us

Bible Readings for the week:
Jonah 3:1–5, 10
Psalm 62:5–12
1 Corinthians 7:29–31
Mark 1:14–20

Hymns/Songs for the week
LHS 232 Rise thou light of Gentile nations
At 261 Servant King
At 313 Christ be our light

Sermon for the week: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=132111

Feb 15 Worship Service and sermon for times of disasters

2009-02-15T12:20:00.000-08:00

Worship Service is available at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dgjf3bcp_7ctw5xpgc

Sermon: When disaster occurs God is more interested in loving and caring than judging.

Epiphany 2

2009-01-19T13:43:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week:

Planting seeds of faith

Bible Readings for the week

1 Samuel 3:1–20
Psalm 139:1–6, 13–18
1 Corinthians 6:12–20
John 1:43–51

Songs/Hymns for the week

LHS 159 O for a thousand tongues
AT 493 Follow the saviour
At 402 God has chosen me
AT 297 Let us talents and tongues employ

Sermon available at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=131079

Epiphany Celebration

2009-01-19T13:34:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week

Bible Readings for the week
Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 72:1-14
Ephesians 3:1-12
Matthew 2:1-12

Songs/Hymns for the week
AT 217 Shine Jesus Shine
At 409 Marching in the light
At 465 Praise my soul the king of heaven
At 389 Light of the nations
LHS 152 Fariest Lord Jesus

Sermon to come

2nd Sunday after Christmas

2009-01-18T21:28:00.000-08:00

Theme
GOD'S GIFT OF GRACE ACHIEVES FAR MORE THAN ANY LAW

Bible readings for the week
Jeremiah 31:7–14
Psalm 147:12-20
Ephesians 1:3–14
John 1:10–18

Hymns/Songs for the week
LHS 851 Amazing Grace
AT 194 May the feet of God
AT 301 Prayer of peace
Let the weak say I am strong
At 294 God give you joy

Sermon: to come

1st Sunday after Christmas 28 Dec 2008

2009-01-18T21:01:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week

Bible Readings
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Psalm 148
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40

Hymns/Songs for the week
LHS 746 What Child is this
LHS 634 Away in the manger
At 320 I was there to hear your borning cry
AT 194 May the Feet of God walk with you

Sermon for the week
Being content with Jesus....to come

Christmas Day

2008-12-23T13:16:00.000-08:00

Theme for the Day
The Christmas gift we need: Jesus

Bible Readings
Isaiah 62:6-12
Psalm 97
Titus 3:4-7
Luke 2:1-20

Carols and Songs
lhs 627 Joy to the World
LHS 33 Hark the Herald angels sing
AT 371 Singing glory
AT 194 May the Feet of God walk with you

Sermon for the day: is available at http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=130110

Christmas Eve

2008-12-23T13:13:00.001-08:00

Theme for the Day
Don't settle for the wrappings

Bible Reading
Luke 2:1-20

Carols and Songs
Everybody get ready cd
LHS 34 O come all ye faithfull
LHS 746 What Child is this
LHS 633 O little town of Bethlehem
LHS 33 hark the herald angels sing
LHS 634 Away in a manger
LHS 627 Joy to the world
LHS 629 Silent night
AT 194 Christmas blessing

Message
To come

Advent 4

2008-12-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week:
God is with us; to love us now

Bible Readings
2 Samuel 7:1–11, 16
Psalm 89:1–4, 19–26
Romans 16:25–27
Luke 1:26–38

Songs for the week
Everybody (C Buchanan)
Lhs 17 Come thou long expected Jesus
At 320 I was there to hear your borning cry
At 10 in the house of God
At 476 Here is bread
At 64 Nothing can separate us from the love of God

Sermon to come

2nd Sunday of Advent 2008

2008-12-08T03:49:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week: God is with us, calling us back

Bible Readings for the week
Isaiah 40:1–11
Psalm 85:1, 2, 8–13
2 Peter 3:8–15a
Mark 1:1–8

Hymns and Songs for the week
Everybody (C Buchanan)
Lhs 17 Come thou long expected Jesus
At 354 Change my heart
At 25 Comfort Comfort
At 472 As we take this bread
At 200 One more step

Sermon for the week available here: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=129521

2008 Advent and Christmas Worship Times

2008-11-30T14:37:00.000-08:00

Worship Service Times in our parish throughout Advent and Christmas

Burnie
Sun: 30 Nov 9am
Sun: 7 Dec 6pm

Sun: 14 Dec 9am
Sun: 21 Dec 9am
Christmas Eve 6.30pm Family Nativity
Christmas Day 9am

Devonport
Sun: 30 Nov 11am
Sat: 6 Dec 5pm
Sun: 14 Dec 11am
Sun: 21 Dec 5pm
Christmas Eve 8.30pm Family Nativity
Christmas Day 11am

Launceston
Sun: 30 Nov 10am
Sun: 7 Dec 10am
Sun: 14 Dec 10am
Sun: 21 Dec 5pm Family Nativity
Christmas Eve 7pm Service of Carols
Christmas Day 9am

1st Sunday of Advent

2008-11-29T22:35:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week: God is with us giving us hope

Advent Candle Lighting liturgy
Leader:
Today we begin a new church year, with the season of Advent.
Advent is about preparing for the Jesus to return, completing God’s promises to save us.
ALL: Now this is something to hope for.
Leader:
Hoping for Jesus’ return brings light into our lives and the lives of others.
Financial concerns, terrorist attacks, environmental problems, health and education worries, violence, family problems and other things that cause suffering can make life seem dark and hopeless.
However our life is not limited to today, Jesus has created a future for everyone where nothing perishes, spoils or fades.
ALL:
Lets keep focused on Jesus and always be ready for His return
He helps us through today’s problems.
and gives the gift of eternal life to all who believe.
We light our first candle, the candle of hope as a reminder that Jesus brings the light of hope into this world.
The candle of hope is lit

Bible Readings for the week
Isaiah 64:1–9
Psalm 80:1–7, 17–19
1 Corinthians 1:3–9
Mark 13:24–37

Songs for the week
Everybody Get Ready (C Buchanan)
At 405 lord of all hopefulness
Lhs 17 Come thou long expected Jesus
At 434 Sing out with joy, he is coming
AT 376 Faith Hope and Love
At 313 Christ be our light
At 402 God has chosen me

Sermon: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=129301

Christ the King Sunday

2008-11-24T19:57:00.000-08:00

Theme for the week:
Being generous to the needy....is part of serving God

Bible Readings
Proverbs 3:5-12
Psalm 95:1–7a
1 Corinthians 16:1-3
Matthew 25:31–46

Songs/Hymns for the week
At 161 Majesty
LHS 556 O God our help
At 261 The Servant King
At 175 Love the Lord
Power of the Cross by C Jaensch
At 300 Practice Love

Sermon for the week can be found at:
http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=129099

27th Sunday after Pentecost year A

2008-11-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

Theme: Using what God has given us to share his love

Bible Readings
Zephaniah 1:7, 12–18
Psalm 90:1–8 (9–11) 12
1 Thessalonians 5:1–11
Matthew 25:14–30

Songs/Hymns for the week
At 300 Practice Love
LHS 556 O God our help
Generous God cd
LHS 377 Take my life
At 261 The Servant King
At 297 Let us talents

Our sermon for the week was preached by Sudanese evangelist Michael Jang

26th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-11-09T17:14:00.000-08:00

Theme: The recipe for generosity

Bible readings
(Please note we have gone lectionary for this week as we explore what it means to be generous)
1 Kings 17:8-16
Psalm 70
1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
Luke 21:1-4

Hymn/Songs for the week
At 384 If we will trust in God to guide us
AT 455 All this I believe
AT 31 Freely Freely
LHS 877 Trust and Obey
At 261 The Servant King
At 297 Let us talents

Sermon for the week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=128636

All Saints Day 2008

2008-11-09T17:08:00.000-08:00

Theme: Saints are not perfect, but forgiven and generous

Bible Readings for the week
Revelation 7:9–17
Psalm 34:1–10, 22
1 John 3:1–3
Matthew 5:1–12

Hymns and Songs
At 292 Because we bear your name
AT 31 Freely Freely
AT 95 Make me a channel of your eace
LHS 164 Love divine
AT 93 pass my love around
Give thanks with a grateful heart

Sermon for the week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=128637

Reformation Sunday

2008-10-25T03:02:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: God is at work restoring who we are

Bible Readings for the week
Jeremiah 31:31–34
Psalm 46
Romans 3:19–28
John 8:31–36

Songs/Hymns
At 354 Change my heart o God
LHS 195 A mighty fortress
At 31 freely, freely
In Christ alone
At 131 Amazing Grace

Sermon for this week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=128119

23rd Sunday after Pentecost

2008-10-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: God's at work restoring our worldview: EVERYTHINGS sacred

Bible Readings for the week
Isaiah 45:1–7
Psalm 96:1–9 (10–13)
1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Matthew 22:15–22

Songs for the week
At 354 Change my heart o God
At 377 Take my life and let it be
Our God is so big
At 265 Take us we are yours
LHS 219 Jesus shall reign
AT 292 Because we bear your name

Sermon for the week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=127987

22nd Sunday After Pentecost

2008-10-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: God's at work restoring creation: everyone's welcome

Bible Readings for the week:
Isaiah 25:1–9
Psalm 23
Philippians 4:1–9
Matthew 22:1–14

Songs for the week
At 4 Father welcomes
LHS 875 There's a wideness
At 341 If your black or if your white
At 138 the wedding banquet
LHS 387 The Lord's my shepherd
At 297 Let us talents and tongues employee
AT 475 Come to the banquet

Sermon for the week: as Pastor Richard was at Pastor's conference and District convention a lay service was held and we adapted this sermon https://www.changingchurch.org/toolkit/app/files/serm101208.pdf

21st Sunday after pentecost (LCA Sunday)

2008-10-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: God's at work restoring his kingdom

Bible Reading
Isaiah 5:1–7
Psalm 80:7–15
Philippians 3:4b–14
Matthew 21:33–46

Songs for the week
At 354 Change my heart o God
LHS 191 The Church's one foundation
At 265 Take us we are yours
At 382 I am the vine
At 472 As we take this bread
At 297 Let us talents and tongues employee

Sermon for this week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=127557

Seasons of Creation: River Sunday

2008-09-25T04:42:00.001-07:00

Theme for the week: River Sunday: rely on the river of life

Bible Readings for the week
Genesis 8:20-22; 9:12-17
Psalm 104:27-33
Revelation 22:1-5
Matthew 28:1-10

Songs for the week
At 2 This is the day
Lhs 465 Praise my soul
At 99 pentecost prayer
LHS 851 Amazing Grace
At 472 As we take this bread
At 301 May the Father of love

Sermon for this week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=127140

Seasons of Creation: Outback Sunday

2008-09-16T10:14:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Outback Sunday: being a disciple with the outback

Bible readings for the week
Joel 1:8-10, 17-20
Psalm 18:6-19
Romans 8:18-27
Matthew 3:13 - 4:2

Songs/hymns for the week:
At 2 This is the day
LHS 642 Praise God from whom all blessings flow
AT 356 Give Glory
AT 218 Spirit Spirit
At 267 Bread of heaven
LHS 347 Guide me o thou Great Jehovah
Some others to consider
At 361 Here we are
At 430 A voice is heard
At 462 Hand in Hand
TIS 135 All things bright and beautiful

Sermon: to come

Seasons of Creation: Land Sunday

2008-09-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Theme for this week: Land Sunday; The Land is cursed by our sin and saved by Jesus

Bible Readings for the week:
Genesis 3:14-19; 4:8-16
Psalm 139:7-12
Romans 5:12-17
Matthew 12:38-40

Hymns and Songs for the week:
At 2 This is the day
At 361 Here we are
At 217 Shine Jesus Shine
At 433 You were in this place
LHS 347 Guide me o thou Great Jehovah
Great Southland

Sermon can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=126717

Seasons of Creation: Forest Sunday

2008-09-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

Theme for this week: Seasons of Creation, being a disciple with creation

Bible Readings for this week

Genesis 2:4b-22
Psalm 139:13-16
Acts 17:22-28
John 3:1-16

Songs/hymns for this week

At 2 This is the day
LHS 881 How great thou art
At 66 Butterfly Song
At 155 We believe
At 83 Pass it on
At 289 Let's go out and keep on singing

Sermon for this week located at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=126438

16th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-08-30T03:09:00.000-07:00

Theme for this Sunday: In tandem with God: knowing the costs and the benefits of following Jesus.

Bible Readings
Jeremiah 15:15–21
Psalm 26:1–8
Romans 12:9–21
Matthew 16:21–28

Songs for this Sunday
At 200 One more step
LHS 54 When I survey the wondrous cross
At 413 the summons
At 261 Servant King
At 93 Pass my love around
At 373 Bound by love

Sermon for this Sunday can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=126335

15th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-08-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week:
In tandem with God: sharing the good things about Jesus

Bible Reading for the week:
Isaiah 51:1–6
Psalm 138
Romans 12:1–8
Matthew 16:13–20

Songs/Hymns for the week
At 161 Majesty
At 55 His name is wonderful
At 26 He is Lord
Lhs 331 My hope is built on nothing less
At 349 There is a redeemer
At 200 One more step
Jesus what a beautiful name
Lift high the name of Jesus

Sermon for the week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=126187

14th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-08-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Living in Tandem with God: who is included?

Bible Readings
Isaiah 56:1, 6–8
Psalm 67
Romans 11:1, 2a, 29–32
Matthew 15:10–28

Songs/Hymns for the week
At 174 Bind us together
At 875 Theres a wideness in God mercy
At 72 God loves you
AT 131 Amazing Grace
At 475 Come to the banquet
At 200 One more step

Sermon for the week: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=126095

13th Sunday after Pentecost, 10 August

2008-08-11T16:53:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: In tandem with God, when the storms hit

Bible Readings
1 Kings 19:9–18
Psalm 85:8–13
Romans 10:5–15
Matthew 14:22–33

Songs/hymns
AT 200 One more step
At 26 He is Lord
At 87 Walkin down the road
lhs 301 Take thou my hand
lhs 556 O God our help in ages past
AT 470 I'm so secure
At 101 Jesus please watch over us

Sermon can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=125596

12th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-08-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Worship theme: In tandem with God: nothing is ever too big

Readings for the week:
Isaiah 55:1–5
Psalm 145:8, 9, 14–21
Romans 9:1–5
Matthew 14:13–21

Songs for the week:
AT 200 One more step
LHS 881 How great thou art
My God is so Big
At 382 I am the vine
AT 276 Into your death we go
At 297 Let us talents and tongues employ

Sermon for the week can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=125303

A sermon relating to the Romans 9 reading: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=125015

11th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-07-27T05:09:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Living as people loved by God

Bible Readings for the week
1 Kings 3:5–12
Psalm 119:129–136
Romans 8:26–39
Matthew 13:31–33, 44–52

Songs/Hymns for the week
At 72 God loves you
At 64 Nothing can separate us
LHS 609 Jesus loves me
LHS 164 Love divine
At 71 face to face
At 301Prayer of Peace
At 288 Take and eat
At 352 Your love keeps following me

Sermon for the week:

10th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-07-27T05:06:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Living as people with hope

Bible Readings for the week
Isaiah 44:6–8
Psalm 86:11–17
Romans 8:12–25
Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43

Songs/Hymns for the week
At 376 Faith, hope and love
At 336 Faith is..
At 64 Nothing can separate us
Lhs 556 Our God our help in ages past
At 288 Take and eat
At 313 Christ be our light
Have faith in God
at 405 Lord of hopelessness
Lhs 331 My hope is built on nothing less

Sermon for the week:

9th Sunday after Pentecost Year a

2008-07-27T05:02:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Living as people not condemned

Bible Readings for the week
Isaiah 55:10–13
Psalm 65:(1–8) 9–13
Romans 8:1–11
Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23

Songs/hymns for the week
AT 354 Change my heart o God
At 64 Nothing can separate us
AT 31 Freely Freely
I'm accepted
At 67 And can it be
AT 301 Prayer of peace

Sermon for the week:

8th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-07-06T22:58:00.001-07:00

Theme for the week: We need God's help

Bible Readings
Zechariah 9:9–12
Psalm 145:8–14
Romans 7:15–25a
Matthew 11:16–19, 25–30

Songs for the week:
AT 354 Change my heart
At 31 Freely Freely
AT 493 Follow the saviour
AT 455 I believe
At 345 Nothing but the blood
LHS 881 How great thou art
LHS 67 And can it be..
You rescued me
AT 451 Jesus saviour of the world

Sermon for the week:

7th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-07-06T22:54:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Living our new identity

Bible Readings:
Jeremiah 28:5–9
Psalm 89:1–4, 15–18
Romans 6:12–23
Matthew 10:40–42

Songs for the week:
At 389 Shine your light on the world
At 131 Amazing Grace
At 200 One more step
At 71 face to face
At 31 Freely freely
Give thanks

Sermon for the week:

6th Sunday after Pentecost/Commemorating the Augsburg Confession

2008-07-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Discovering the truth of salvation for all people

Bible readings:
Isaiah 55:6–11
Psalm 46
1 Timothy 6:11b–16
Matthew 10:26–33

Songs for the week
At 4 Father welcomes
Lhs 195 A mighty fortress
AT 341 If your black or if your white
At 155 I believe
At 475 Come to the banquet
At 93 Pass my love around

Sermon for the week:
Another sermon: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=123613

15 June 2008 5th Sunday after Pentecost

2008-06-16T16:45:00.000-07:00

Our theme for the week: Living in the harvest

Readings for the week:
Exodus 19:2–8a
Psalm 100
Romans 5:1–8
Matthew 9:35 – 10:23

We sang the following in worship:
LHS 159 O for a thousand tongues
At 44 Psalm 100
At 313 Christ be our light
LHS 894 Father in heaven
At 31 Freely Freely
Just let me say (Geoff Bullock)

This week's sermon can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=123578

4th Sunday after Pentecost 8 June 2008

2008-06-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Living with a changed heart

Songs/Hymns
The heart of worship
At 357 Give us hearts to know you Lord
At 368 Shelter
At 354 change my heart o God
AT 398 May the holy ghost lead you
LHS 851 Amazing Grace
Be thou my vision (lhs 379 tune)

Sermon for the week: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=123339

3rd Sunday after Pentecost 1 June 2008

2008-06-10T16:56:00.001-07:00

Theme for this week: Solid Rock living by God's word

Bible Readings
Deuteronomy 11:18–21, 26–28
Psalm 31:1–5, 19–24
Romans 1:16, 17; 3:22b–31
Matthew 7:21–29

Songs/Hymns for this week
At 246 Thy word
At 58 Praise the name of Jesus
The wise man built his hand upon the rock (see attached in Sing to Jesus 201)
At 345 Nothing but the blood of Jesus
LHS 877 Trust and obey
At 213 I go to the rock
LHS 331 Solid rock My hope is built on nothing less

Sermon

25th May 2nd Sunday after Pentecost

2008-05-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: The road to no worries....God's way

Bible readings for the week:
Isaiah 49:8–16a
Psalm 131
1 Corinthians 4:1–5
Matthew 6:24–34

Songs for the week:
At 34 Seek ye first
LHS 877 Trust and obey
At 87 Walking down the road
At 233 He will listen to you
At 345 Nothing but the blood
At 496 Don't be afraid
Living my life for my Lord (C Jaensch)
LHS 219 Jesus shall reign

Sermon for the week can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=122874

18th May Trinity Sunday

2008-05-19T17:44:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: As you go about your life...make disciples

Readings for this week:
Genesis 1:1 – 2:4a
Psalm 8
2 Corinthians 13:11–14
Matthew 28:16–20

Songs for this week:
At 43 How shall I call you?
LHS 881 How great thou art
At 320 I was there to hear your borning cry
At 301 Prayer of peace
At 349 There is a redeemer
At 31 Freely Freely
LHS 642 Praise God from whom all blessings flow
LHS 442 Praise to the Lord the king of creation

Sermon for this week can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=122688
Another sermon based on Matthew 28:16-20 can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=122491

May 11th Pentecost

2008-05-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

Theme for this week is: The real miracle of Pentecost...

Readings for this week:
Numbers 11:24–30
Psalm 104:24–34, 35b
Acts 2:1–21
John 7:37–39

Songs/hymns for this week:
At359 Holy Spirit living water
At 349 There is a redeemer
At 341 If your black
At 875 There is a wideness in God's mercy
LHS 894 Father God in heaven
At 99 Pentecost Prayer
At 475 Come to the banquet
At 301 Prayer of Peace
Be thou my vision
Spirit of the living God
O let the son of God enfold you (Spirit Song)

Sermon for this week:
http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=122490

May 4th Ascension Celebration

2008-05-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

The theme for this week is: Inspired by the Spirit.

Readings for the week:
Acts 1:1–11
Psalm 47 or Psalm 93
Ephesians 1:15–23
Luke 24:44–53

Songs/Hymns for the week:
At 161 Majesty
AT 26 he is Lord
In Christ alone/At 300 Prayer of peace
At 297 Let us talents
At 103 Send your servant
LHS 115 Rejoice the Lord is king

Sermon for the week can be found at:

April 27 6th Sunday after Easter and Anzac Day

2008-05-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

Theme for the week: Living loving others by introducing God to our world

Readings for the week:
Acts 17:22–31
Psalm 66:8–20
1 Peter 3:13–22
John 14:15–21

Songs for the week:
At 43 How shall i call you
LHS 881 How great thou art
AT 72 God loves you
At 26 He is Lord
AT 349 There is a redeemer
AT 300 Practice Love
In Christ Alone
LHS 164 Love Divine

Sermon for the week can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=121764

20th April

2008-05-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

Our theme for this week was: Living by giving selflessly

Readings for the week were:
Acts 7:55–60
Psalm 31:1–5, 15, 16
1 Peter 2:2–10
John 14:1–14

Songs for the week were:
At 261 Servant King
At 31 Freely Freely
LHS 877 Trust and obey
At 276 into your death
At 87 Walking down the road

Sermon for the week: Pastor Richard was away at the Get Real conference, here is a sermon Pastor Richard preached in 2005 on the John 14 reading http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113106

The week beginning April 13th

2008-04-15T00:09:00.001-07:00

Our theme for the week was a community lead by the Good Shepherd

Readings for the week:
Acts 2:42–47
Psalm 23
1 Peter 2:19–25
John 10:1–10

Hymns/Songs for the week
AT 324 Saints of all time
LHS 506 Jesus where the people meet
LHS 92 Christ the Lord is risen today
At 341 If your black or if your white
At 174 Bind us together
At 172 May we be one
At 191 The servant song

Sermon for the week: as Pastor Richard was attending 'Get Real' we had a lay read sermon, which is not available. If you would like a copy of the sermon please email: Pastor Richard Schwedes richard.schwedes@lca.org.au

Week beginning 6 April, Easter 3

2008-04-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

The theme for this week is Seeing God in our lives.

Bible Readings
Acts 2:14a, 36–41
Psalm 116:1–4, 12–19
1 Peter 1:17–23
Luke 24:13–35

Around the parish we sang the following songs:
At 343 Jesus come stand among us
LHS 92 Christ the Lord is risen today
LHS 26 He is Lord
AT 127 Because He lives
AT 297 Let us talents and tongue employ
HS Have Faith in God

Sermon for the week can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=120955

SUNDAY 6 April
10am Launceston Worship
6pm Burnie Worship
MONDAY 7 April
6pm Launceston Prayer Meeting
7pm Burnie Prayer Meeting
TUESDAY 8 April
1.30pm Devonport Bible Study
WED 9 April
10:30 Burnie Day Time Bible Study
THURSDAY 10 April
FRIDAY 11 April
SATURDAY 12 April
9am Burnie Women’s walk and coffee
SUNDAY 13 April
9am Burnie Worship
10am Launceston Worship
11am Devonport Worship
MONDAY 14 April
6pm Launceston Prayer Meeting
7pm Burnie Prayer Meeting
TUESDAY 15 April
Noon & 8pm Devonport churches praying together at our church
WED 16 April
12:30 Lunchtime bible study at Powells
7pm Burnie Church Council at Hollands
THURSDAY 17 April
7pm Launceston Church Council
8:30pm Launceston confirmation at Walker’s
FRIDAY 18 April
SATURDAY 19 April
10am Parish Council Meeting Devonport
SUNDAY 20 March
9am Burnie worship
11am Devonport Worship followed by AGM
5pm Launceston Worship

This week beginning Sunday 30th March

2008-03-30T08:23:00.000-07:00

Our theme for this week is: Dealing with doubts.

Around our parish we sang the following songs/hymns:
AT 312 Celebrate Jesus the risen Lord
LHS 92 Christ the Lord is risen today
AT 421 Born forever
AT 160 Resurrection Shout
AT 127 Because He lives
At 257 Jesus is living
AT 113 Crown Him with many crowns
At 26 He is Lord

The sermon for this week can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=120689

This week in our Parish:

SUNDAY 30 March
9am Burnie worship followed by AGM
10am Launceston Worship
11am Devonport Worship
MONDAY 31 March
6pm Launceston Prayer Meeting
7pm Burnie Prayer Meeting
TUESDAY1 April
1:30pm Devonport Bible Study
WED 2 April
12:30 Burnie Lunchtime bible study at Powells
THURSDAY 3 April
7pm Launceston Church Council
FRIDAY 4 April
SATURDAY 5 April
8am Burnie Men’s Breakfast at Geoff’s shed
5pm Devonport Worship
SUNDAY 6 April
10am Launceston Worship
6pm Burnie Worship

Easter Sunday 2008

2008-03-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

Our theme for Easter Sunday: Celebrating Jesus victory for us...Jesus wins We win.

Around the parish we sang the following songs:
LHS 92 Christ the Lord is risen today
AT 160 Resurrection Shout
AT 421 Born forever
This is the feast of Victory (This far by faith)
AT 2 This is the day

The sermon for today can be found at http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=120443

Good Friday

2008-03-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

Our Good Friday worship service this year was: 'The Way of the Cross' (for details regarding this service please email me)

Our theme for the day was: 'The way of the cross"

Around the parish we sang the following songs/hymns:
We all like sheep have gone astray (Colin Buchanan)
LHS 84 There is a Green Hill far away
AT 261 The Servant King
At 345 Nothing but the blood of Jesus
Were you there when they crucifed my Lord?
LHS 54 When I Survey the wonderous cross

The sermon for today can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=120442

Palm and Passion Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week

2008-03-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

Our theme for the week is: The benefits of remaining obedient.

God's Word for us this week:

Matthew 21:1-11

Isaiah 50:4-9a
Psalm 31:9-16
Phillipians 2:5-11
Matthew 27:11-54

Around our parish we sang:

At 328 Tell the city of zion
At 155 We believe

At 158 Come sing our praises loud
At 444 Hey King
At 261 Servant King
LHS 54 When I survey the wonderous

Sermon for this week: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=120051

A sermon relating to Matthew 21:1-11 reading http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113998

Lent 5

2008-03-09T09:19:00.001-07:00

Theme for the week: Not being dictated to by death

Around our parish we sang the following:
AT359 Holy Spirit living water
At 160 The resurrection shout
At 349 there is a redeemer
LHS 894 Lord's Prayer
LHS 54 When I survey the wonderous

Sermon for the week can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=119727

Sermon preached 3 years ago can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=119563

Easter Events and Worship around the parish

2008-03-09T09:12:00.000-07:00

EASTER EVENTS 2008
LENT EVENTS
Wed 12th Mar 7pm Burnie Lent Study
Thurs 13th Mar 7pm Launceston Lent Study

HOLY WEEK EVENT
Tues 18th Mar 1:00pm Devonport
Wed 19th Mar 7pm Burnie
Thurs 20th Mar 7pm Launceston

This all age event includes a movie based on the Gospel of John, reflection time and a shared meal. Bring some food to share. Invite a friend along.

EASTER WORSHIP
Good Friday 21st March
‘The Way of the Cross’
A dramatic service
for the eyes, ears and nose.
9am Burnie
10am Launceston
11am Devonport

Easter Sunday 23rd March
Jesus wins!! We win!!
8am Devonport
9am Burnie
10am Launceston

Good Friday worship service: sights, sounds and smells of Good Friday

2008-03-08T02:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Burnie/Devonport/Launceston Lutheran Church

Because of God’s amazing grace
WE LIVE
to love the Lord with all our being
to love others as ourselves
and to share
the Good News of Jesus Christ
Good FridaySights, scenes and sounds of Good Friday

INTRODUCTION TO THE SERVICE
Leader:

Our Good Friday Service this morning is a service of the sights, sounds and smells of Good Friday. It is a series of readings, responses, silent reflection and prayer designed to help us enter more deeply into the meaning of Good Friday, who God is and How he creates hope and new life. It is based around the account from the Gospel according to St John chapters 18 and 19. You are encouraged to follow the readings by opening your bibles to John chapter 18.

Invocation
Leader: The Holy Spirit has gathered us here to focus on Jesus
To hear and learn how he remained committed to His Father’s will.
So that we may have a new life.
ALL: Amen

Welcoming fellow members of the Body
As we are all guests of Jesus I invite you to welcome each other
You are welcome to move around the church
Greeting each other and introducing yourself to those people you do not know

Setting the scene
Leader: Many years before Jesus walked the earth as a human through His prophets God revealed to the world how He would give us a future, and how we would be saved. Let us listen to and reflect on part of this prophesy as found in the Old Testament book of the prophet Isaiah.

Bible Reading
God speaks through his prophets:
Isaiah 53:1-4, 11-12
Reader: This is the word of the Lord
ALL: Thanks be to God
Silence for reflection

LHS 54 When I survey the wondrous cross
LHS 54 When I Survey the wondrous cross
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ, my God;
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down:
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were an offering far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.
Isaac Watts (1674-1748), alt.

JESUS GATHER’S US AND LEAD US
Bible Reader: JOHN 18:1, 2B

Leader: Olive trees in ancient times were a sign of peace. As the olive branches are passed around think and pray about how Jesus is always leading us as individuals into a group of people that are focussed on Him and His ways and His approach to peace.

Silence for reflection and prayer

As the olive branches are passed around

Leader: O God - thankyou for leading us as individuals and a group of people focussed on you and your ways
ALL: Forgive us when we have strayed from you

and have not met regularly with other Christians
Help us to trust in you always
Don’t give up on us,
continue leading us into your family and your kingdom.

BETRAYING JESUS
Reader: JOHN 18:2a, 3

Leader: In the account of Jesus’ betrayal in the Gospel of Matthew, we see that Judas betrayed Jesus so that he could gain 30 pieces of silver. As the coins are passed around. Think about how you betray Jesus and others so you can satisfy yourself.

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the coins are passed around

Leader: O God, help us to consider how we betray You and others,
by living lives where we think of ourselves first.
ALL: Show us how we have betrayed you and others
Forgive us for hurting you and others due to our acts of betrayal
Help us to remain loyal to you and others in all situations

Sung Response
How deep the father’s love for us v1

JESUS SURRENDERS HIMSELF FOR US
Reader: JOHN 18:4-14

Leader: In Jesus surrendering himself to the soldiers, he saved others. A white flag is usually seen as a sign of surrendering. As the flag is passed around think about what you received as a result of God surrendering himself for us..

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the white flag is passed around

Leader: Gracious God, your son is so special
That he gave himself up to the soldiers so that the disciples and us could be saved from harm
ALL: Thankyou Jesus for giving yourself up for us
Help us to faithfully follow You,
By giving ourselves up to you, our loving God

DENY KNOWING JESUS
Reader: JOHN 18:15-18, 25-27
Leader: Despite being one of the closest people to Jesus Peter denied knowing Jesus, not once but three times. Peter’s denial of Jesus came through His silence, actions and by saying He was not one of Jesus’ disciples. Think about how you have pretended that you are not a Christian by your silence, your actions or what you have said. On this occasion nothing is being passed around, because when we deny Jesus, we are keeping God’s love and mercy from others..

Silence for reflection and prayer
As nothing is passed around

Leader: O God, help us consider how we deny you how we seek to live as people belonging to this world and Satan rather than You.

ALL: Forgive us for those times we have denied knowing You
Give us strength to bring your love

and Good News in all situations you have placed us.

Sung Response
How deep the Father's love for us v2

TRUTH
Reader: JOHN 18:19-24

Leader: Early in His ministry Jesus said He is the way, the truth and the light. Unfortunately the officials could not see the truth that was in front of them. As the bible passes your hands reflect on God’s gift of truth that we can access everyday through the scriptures.

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the BIBLE is passed around

Leader: O God, thankyou that you are truth and for giving us the truth in the scriptures
ALL: Forgive us for not relying on your truth
Help us to regularly open your pages of scripture

and study your word so you can reveal the truth to us
May we trust in your teachings above all others

JESUS IS PUNISHED AND SUFFERS
Reader: JOHN 18:28-19:3
Leader: Despite His innocence Jesus is punished and suffers. He didn't suffer for himself but for us. As the thorns are passed around think about how Jesus Suffered for you.

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the thorns are passed around

Leader: O Jesus thankyou for suffering for us
ALL: It is our desire to be our own boss and do our own thing
That meant that we had no hope of heaven without your suffering
We can not thankyou enough for what you have done and are doing for us

Sung Response
How deep the Father's love for us v3

JESUS IS CRUCIFIED
Reader: JOHN 19:4 -18

Leader: Jesus is a king, but was crowned in an unexpected way. His throne was the cross. Reflect on how as your king Jesus took the punishment you deserve, being nailed to the cross

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the nails are hammered in

Leader: O God, thank you for paying the price for our sins
ALL: Forgive us for not always acknowledging you as our king
Thankyou that you have done what it takes to give us access to heaven

Sung Response
How deep the Father's love for us v1

JESUS IS STRIPED
Reader: JOHN 19:19-24
Leader: Jesus was stripped and the soldiers divided His clothes amongst themselves. As the altar is stripped remember how Jesus was stripped for you

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the altar is stripped

Leader: O God our sinful desires caused you to be stripped naked
ALL: Forgive us
Take from us all that hinders our relationship with you and others
And replace it with your clothes of righteousness

Sung Response
How deep the Father's love for us v2

JESUS CREATES FAMILY
Reader: JOHN 19:25-27
Leader: Even whilst hanging on the cross Jesus was still thinking of others and helping them become family. You are also given the opportunity to be part of His family, through the waters of baptism, where God says you are now part of my family

Silence for reflection and prayer
As water is poured into the baptismal fount

Leader: O God thankyou for welcoming us into your family through the waters of baptism
ALL: Forgive us when we have failed to honour our baptismal promises,

when we have strayed from your family
And we are thankful that you have honoured yours
Help us to grow together as Your family

JESUS IS THIRSTY
Reader: JOHN 19:28-30
Leader: Jesus says he is thirsty and the soldiers respond by giving Him a wine vinegar, a cheap drink. As the sponge is passed around reflect on what you give Jesus...is it cheap or something more

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the wine vinegar is passed around

Leader: O God you have given so much to us and for us
ALL: Forgive us when we have been misers

and not generous with everything you have given us
Help us to be your generous and faithful followers

as we live our life of loving you and others

JESUS IS SPEARED
Reader: JOHN 19:31-3724
Leader: In being pierced Jesus is replacing once and for all the sacrificial lamb. He foretold this on the night he was betrayed, when he instituted Holy Communion. This meal was given to Jesus disciples, the people who followed Him, none of them perfect, yet they were all loved by Jesus. In a few moments you have the opportunity to receive His body and blood for the forgiveness of your sins as you receive Holy Communion. As you receive it contemplate what it took for Jesus to give you His body and blood.

Words of Institution

Dismissal

Leader: O God thankyou for the gift of your body and blood
ALL: Jesus we are sorry that you had to die for us
We thankyou for what you have done for us
Help us always to appreciate this.

AT 345 Nothing but the blood

What can wash away my sin?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
What can make me whole again?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Oh! Precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know -
nothing but the blood of Jesus.

For my pardon this I see:
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
For my cleansing this my plea:
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Oh! Precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know -
nothing but the blood of Jesus.

This is all my hope and peace:
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
This is all my righteousness
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Oh! Precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know -
nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Robert Lowry Public Domain

JESUS IS BURIED

Bible Reader: JOHN 19:38-42
Leader: Jesus body has now been wrapped up and placed in the tomb. In the account of Jesus burial from Matthew we hear that a great rock is placed to seal the entrance. We know this is not the end of the story. However many people probably thought that Jesus was wrapped up and out of site and this would be the last they heard of him. As the rock is passed around, you may wish to reflect on how we at times lock Jesus up and put him out of sight, you may also wish to pray for those who think Jesus death is the end of the story.

Silence for reflection and prayer
As the rock is passed around

Leader: O God we know that your death has a purpose
ALL: and we also know that it is not the end
But the start of something special for us
Help us not have Jesus wrapped up and out of site
But to gladly share Him with everyone we encounter.

During the next song:
We join with millions of Christians all over the world in joyfully responding to God’s goodness through the giving of our financial resources.
Our offerings are used to support God’s work locally, nationally and overseas.
We thank you in advance for your generous and faithful giving, it is only because of your giving that the mission and ministry of this congregation can continue.

PRAYER OF BLESSING
Leader: Lord God,
ALL: you have given us everything.
You have not held anything back,
not even your only begotten son.
With humble hearts we thank you.
In new hope we offer to you
and for the work of salvation
all that you have given us including:
every minute of the day,
all our gifts
and ourselves completely.
Be pleased, O God, in the name of Jesus,
to accept all that we offer at this time.
Look upon the intentions of our hearts.
In Jesus name we pray
Amen

The Lord’s Prayer
All: Our Father in Heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours,
now and forever.
Amen.

Children’s Talk

Sermon

Response based on Hebrews 10:16-25
Leader:

The Lord says “This is the agreement I will make
with them at that time,
“Their sins and the evil things they do—
I will not remember anymore.”
Now when these have been forgiven,
there is no more need for a sacrifice for sins.
ALL: We are completely free to enter the Most Holy Place
without fear because of the blood of Jesus’ death.
We can enter through a new and living way
that Jesus opened for us.
It leads through the curtain—Christ’s body.
let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith,

Closing confession
Leader: By nature each one of us is sinful and unclean
Sin weighs us down with guilt, embarrassment and worry
Separating us from God and others
And today we have heard what Jesus did to address the problems this causes
Jesus wishes to release you from the weight of sin

Leader: So today before you leave in silence reflecting on what Jesus has done, is doing and will do for you. You are invited to come forward and leave all the sins that you have committed and that have been committed against you at the cross.

Please respect this time of reflection for others
And leave in silence

Announcements will be made in the church hall

Christian congregations, gatherings and parishes are free to use this worship order free of charge for their God Friday worship. Please contact us regarding other uses (richard.schwedes@lca.org.au) It would also be appreciated if you could ackowledge this copyright, thankyou

What's happening this week 24 Feb to 2 March

2008-02-27T19:46:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY 24 February
10:30am Parish WORSHIP, Lunch and AGM at Burnie
MONDAY 25 February
6pm Launceston Prayer Meeting
7pm Burnie Prayer Meeting
TUESDAY 26 February
11am Erika Poder funeral at Launceston church
WED 27 February
10:30 Burnie Day Time Bible Study
12:30 Lunch time Bible Study at Powells
7pm Burnie Lent Study at the church
THURSDAY 28 February
7pm Launceston Lenten Bible Study
FRIDAY 29 February
SATURDAY 1 March
5pm Devonport Worship Healing Service
SUNDAY2 March
10am Launceston Worship Healing Service
5pm Burnie tea and then Burnie Worship Healing Service

Lent 4, Healing Service

2008-02-27T19:41:00.002-08:00

This week our focus is on being healed by Jesus.

Bible Readings
1 Samuel 16:1-13
Psalm 23
Ephesians 5:8-14
John 9:1-41

Songs we are singing include:
AT 9 Be still and know that I am God
AT 233 He will listen to you
At 23 the blind man
At 359 Holy Spirit Living water
AT 476 Here is bread
LHS 54 When I survey the wonderous

Sermon : Receiving Jesus' healing http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=119386

Service Order of healing

WELCOME

explanation of the role of healing in the Christian church, including what will be occuring in the service.

CALL TO WORSHIP

Responsive reading based on Psalm 23. Use a translation that relates to your congregation and is accessible. We have used the New Living Translation, the New International Version and New International Readers Version.

WELCOMING FELLOW MEMBERS OF THE BODY OF CHRIST

As God’s fellow members of the Body of Christ God has given us each other, and you are invited to welcome each other and introduce yourself to those who you do not know.
Please take a few moments to move around the sanctuary area, to greet others and introduce yourself.

OPENING PRAYER

Leader: Let us pray for healing from God
Time to reflect on what requires healing in your life
All: Gracious God touch us with your healing Spirit.
Each one of us needs your healing for our minds, bodies and souls.
Lay your hands
gently upon us,
heal us
and strengthen us
to do your will
and sing your praises.
As you call each one of us to tell others about Your Kingdom and to heal the sick.
May your healing power flow from each one of us to others.
Help us to be instruments of your peace.
Amen

SONG: AT 9 Be Still and know that I am God

HEALING THROUGH GOD'S FORGIVENESS
ALL: God our creator
we come to you today in need of your healing touch.
Our bodies are weak
Our minds are confused
and our lives lack meaning and purpose.
We are people in need of your healing touch.
We want to be healthy.
We want to be whole.
We want eternal value in our lives.
We confess our sinful nature causes us illness
and we need the touch of Jesus.

silence for personal confession

Leader: Hear and receive the Good News.
Disciples of Jesus, you are forgiven!
The sickness of your nature and the separation of your relationships has been changed forever.
The life, death and resurrection of Jesus
has turned wrong into right
and altered your destination from death to life
We have been touched with the healing touch of Jesus
All: Praise God, Praise Jesus for all healing.

HEALING THROUGH GOD'S WORD:

Bible readings

STATING OUR FAITH with Christians of all times and places using the words of the Apostles Creed.
ALL: I believe in God, the Father almighty,
maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ,
his only Son our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, dead, and buried.
He descended into hell.
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven,
and sits at the right hand of God,
the Father almighty,
from there he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy Christian † church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Amen.

SONG for the young and young at heart: AT 23 The blind man

CHILDREN'S TALK

SERMON

OFFERING

SONG IN PREPARATION FOR HEALING IN PRAYER: AT223 He will listen to you

HEALING THOUGH PRAYER

Offering Prayer
Leader: Let us pray
ALL: God, you bless us in order that we would be a blessing to others. Use these gifts that we bring that they might bring your healing grace to all who are in need.
Bless your church that we would be a source of hope and a blessing to your world.
Give us servant hearts that beat to the rhythm of your grace in Jesus’ name.Amen!

Prayer of the Church

Prayers for
•the world
•Australia
•Tasmania
•The communities we live in
•The Christian Church
•Our Parish
•Our Congregation

Community Prayer for healing
Leader: Lord in your mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers
Leader: Let us pray for all who suffer.
A time of silence for prayer
Merciful Lord,
you sent your Son to be our peace.
Help all who suffer pain or grief to find strength and peace,
so that their trust in your promises may be renewed;

Leader: Lord in your mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers
Leader: Let us pray for recovery from sickness
A time of silence for prayer
Oh God, the strength of the weak and the comfort of sufferers:
mercifully hear our prayers and grant to your children,
the help of your power,
that their sickness may be turned into health and our sorrow into joy;

Leader: Lord in your mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers
Leader: Let us pray for all who minister healing
A time of silence for prayer
Almighty God, source of human knowledge and skill:
Guide physicians and nurses and all those you have called to healing vocations.
Strengthen them by your life-giving Spirit, that,
the health of all people may be promoted and your creation may be glorified;

Leader: Lord in your mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers
Leader: Let us pray for the ministry of family and friends
A time of silence for prayer
Loving God, our creator and redeemer:
Give strength and gentleness, patience and faithfulness to family members and friends.
Let their hope be in you, and by their ministry of love let your love be known. Guide their decisions with love, mercy and reverence for your gift of life;

Leader: Lord in your mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers
Leader: Let us pray for all who desire prayer
A time of silence for prayer
Blessed Lord, we ask your loving care and protection for those who are sick in body, mind, or spirit and who desire our prayers.
Take from them all fears and help them put their trust in you, that they may feel your strong arms around them.
Touch them with your renewing love, that they may know wholeness in you and glorify your name; In Jesus name AMEN

HEALING THROUGH HOLY COMMUNION

Song: AT 476 Here is bread, Here is wine

Leader: We come again to the table to be made new. The cup of love and the bread of life have been given for all of us to remember the very real presence of Christ with us.
Receiving God’s life in Holy Communion
All: God of comfort and healing
we come again to your table wanting to be refreshed with these elements of love and willing to turn from the things which separate us.
Give us a new vision of life as you intend.
Rearrange our priorities,
give us new attitudes,
and allow us to know how completely you forgive us.

Words of Institution

Leader: As often as we eat this bread and drink this cup we proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes again
All: Christ has died!
Christ is risen!
Christ will come again!
Leader: Come, Holy Spirit; heal our community.
Come, Holy Spirit; heal our mind, body and soul.
Come, Holy Spirit; use us to bring healing to those in need.
ALL: Amen!

The Lord's Prayer

All: Our Father in Heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours,
now and forever.
Amen.

Holy Communion Distribution
Jesus invites all baptised Christians to Holy Communion who:
believe in the Triune God
confess Jesus Christ as their only hope for eternal life (Jesus is their Saviour)
acknowledge and repent of their sin
with God’s help, aim to live as God intended, that is to love Him and love others.
confess that Christ is really present in this meal, where he forgives us our sins.

POST COMMUNION PRAYER
Leader: Let us pray.
ALL: In this sacrament you heal us and unite us as the body of Christ.
You nourish and sustain us in love for you and love for one another.
AMEN

Announcements

Blessing
Leader: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with † us all.
ALL: Amen.

During the last song:
You are invited to come forward
To receive anointing with oil
And individual prayers for healing

or to light a candle from the Christ candle to pray for healing for people you know.

SONG: LHS 54 When i survey the wondrous cross

3rd Sunday in Lent and Thanksgiving Sunday

2008-02-27T19:34:00.000-08:00

Our parish met together at the Burnie church for our Parish Worship, Annual General Meeting and fellowship

The theme for the day was Giving thanks for Jesus the living water

Readings
Exodus 17:1-7
Psalm 95
Romans 5:1-11
John 4:5-42

We sang the following songs/hymns:
At 2 This is the day
At 349 There is a redeemer
At 66 If I were a butterfly
At 359 Holy Spirit Living water
At 345 Nothing but the blood
LHS 54 When I survey the wonderous

Sermon for this week was preached by our guest, Pastor Allan Heppner Pastor for Congregational Support and Mission of the Victorian District (including Tasmania)

A sermon based on the Gospel reading preached by Pastor Richard is available at:
http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113144

Around our parish 17 Feb to 24 Feb

2008-02-18T14:23:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY 17 February
9am Burnie worship
11am Devonport Worship
5pm Launceston Worship
MONDAY 18 February
6pm Launceston Prayer Meeting
7pm Burnie Prayer Meeting
TUESDAY 19 February
1:30pm Devonport Lenten Bible Study
WED 20 February
12:30 Lunchtime bible study at Powells
7pm Burnie Church Council
THURSDAY 21 February
2pm Launceston Daytime Bible at Herbigs
7pm Launceston Lent bible Study
FRIDAY 22 February
SATURDAY 23 February
SUNDAY 24 February
10:30am Parish WORSHIP, Lunch and AGM at Burnie

Around our Parish 11 Feb to 17 Feb

2008-02-11T16:05:00.001-08:00

What is happening around our parish this week:

SUNDAY 10 February
9am Burnie Worship with JAM
10am Launceston Worship
11am Devonport Worship

MONDAY 11 February
6pm Launceston Prayer Meeting
7pm Burnie Prayer Meeting

TUESDAY 12 February
Noon Devonport Christian Leaders

WED 13 February
10:30 Burnie Day Time Bible Study
12:30 Lunch time Bible Study at Powells
7pm Burnie Lent Study at the church

THURSDAY 14 February
12 Launceston Christian Leaders
7pm Launceston Lent bible Study

FRIDAY 15 February

SATURDAY 16 February
8am Men’s Breakfast Devonport

SUNDAY 17 February praying for schools
9am Burnie worship
11am Devonport Worship
5pm Launceston Worship

2nd Sunday in Lent

2008-02-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

Our theme for this week is: Being aware of God's love.

Readings for this week are:
Genesis 12:1-4A
Psalm 121
Romans 4:1-5, 13-17
John 3:1-17

Around our parish we will be singing the following Songs:
At 407 The Lord will keep me safe and holy
AT 320 I was there to hear your borning cry
At 72 God loves you
LHS 609 Jesus loves me
SCE 185 How deep the Father's love for us
At 472 As we take this bread together
LHS 54 When I survey the wonderous

Sermon for this week can be found at; http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=118647

Sermon for Year A 2005 can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=118409

1st Sunday in Lent

2008-02-07T13:52:00.001-08:00

Our theme for this week is: Don't give in following God's agenda!!

Around our parish you will hear the folowing songs/hymns:

At 84 I want Jesus to walk with me
At 320 I was there to hear your bourning cry
AT 34 Seek ye first
At 190 The way is low
At 345 Nothing but the blood of Jesus
LHS 54 When I survey the wonderous cross
LHS 426 What a friend we have in Jesus

The sermon for this week can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=118407
Year A: 2005 Sermon can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=118292

Ash Wednesday Year A

2008-02-06T21:38:00.000-08:00

Our theme for Ash Wednesday was Our life is not about you, but Jesus' life is

It was a reflective service with response prayer, imposition of ashes and Holy Communion

Around the parish we sang the following songs:
AT 282 Lord hear my prayer
At 354 Change my heart
At 345 Nothing but the blood of Jesus

You can read the message at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=118183

Transfiguation Sunday Year A

2008-02-06T21:28:00.000-08:00

Our theme for this week is Seeing God in the clouds

Around the parish we sang the following songs and hymns:
At 158 Come sing our praises loud
Open the eyes of my heart
LHS 152 Fairest Lord Jesus
At 488 Open our eyes
AT 313 Christ be our light
AT 484 Hold the light
LHS 465 Praise my soul the king of heaven

You can find the sermon for this week at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=118215

Epiphany 3 and Australia Day

2008-01-28T19:33:00.000-08:00

Our focus for this week was: Australia celebrating God shining His light through darkness

Around our parish we sang:
At 361 Here we are
LHS 556 Our God our help in ages past
At 493 Follow the saviour
At 217 Shine Jesus Shine
At 475 Come to the baquet
At 402 God has chosen me
Great southland

You can find the sermone for this week at http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=117836

Epiphany 2

2008-01-28T19:20:00.000-08:00

Our theme for this week was: Being restored by God.

Around our congregations we sang:

LHS 397 Lead us heavenly father, lead us

At 269 Create in us a clean heart
At 325 Sing to God with joy and gladness
AT 354 Change my heart
AT 301 Prayer of peace
LHS 894 Father God in heaven
At 103 Send your servant down the road

http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=117834

Baptism of Jesus Sunday

2008-01-15T14:57:00.000-08:00

Our theme this week is: Reflecting the light in the dark

Around the parish we sang the following songs:
AT389 Light of the nations
AT 484 Hold the light for me
This little light of mine
LHS 232 Rise thou light of Gentile nations
At 261 Servant King
At 313 Christ be our light
Guide me o thou Great Redeemer

The sermon for this week can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=117175

Epiphany Year A

2007-12-31T18:25:00.000-08:00

Our focus for worship this week is Being renewed by the light of Jesus.

Around our parish we will be singing:

LHS217 O christ our true and only light
AT217 Shine Jesus shine
AT 409 We are marching in the light of God
LHS 232 Rise thou light of Gentile nations
AT389 Light of the nations
At 313 Christ be our light

A sermon for Epiphany from 2003 can be found at http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=116431 (note this is not based on the theme, as the sermon for this week in our parish comes from another source as Pastor Richard is on leave.)

1st Sunday after Christmas

2007-12-31T18:07:00.001-08:00

Our focus for this service is preparing for the future...

Around our parish we sang:
At 311 Be still and know that I am God
LHS 462 Praise God from all blessings flow
LHS 442 Praise to the Lord, the almighty
AT 54 God is so good
AT 263 Singing all praises
LHS 894 Father God in heaven or Millenium prayer
AT 200 One more step

The sermon for this week can be found at: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=116401

Christmas Day

2007-12-27T14:37:00.000-08:00

God is with us!!

Around our parish we sang:
LHS 34 O come all ye faithful
lhs 627 Joy to the World
AT 371 Singing glory
The King of Christmas
LHS 746 What child is this
AT 194 May the Feet of God walk with you

Sermon for Christmas Day can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=116182

Christmas Eve

2007-12-27T14:34:00.000-08:00

Expect the unexpected

Around our parish we sang:
LHS O Little town of Bethlehem
At 371 Singing Glory
lhs 632 Once in royal david's city
lhs 634 Away in a Manger
lhs 624 While Shepherds watched their flocks
lhs 34 O come all ye faithfull
lhs 629 Silent Night
lhs 744 The First Noel
lhs 627 Joy to the World
Go tell it on the mountain
King of Christmas
At 194 may the feet of God

Our Christmas Eve service at Burnie and the previous week at Launceston used the Rhyming Bible as the basis for its Christmas Nativity Play, at Devonport and at Launceston on Christmas Eve we used an interactive Christmas pagaent (where the whole congregation is involved)

The sermon for Christmas Eve can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=116274

Advent 4

2007-12-27T13:53:00.000-08:00

Advent 4
Seeing the signs of who God is!

Around our congregations we sang:
LHS 2 O Come O Come Immanuel
At 484 Hold the light for me
At 302 Soon and very soon
LHS 624 While shepherds watched their flocks
LHS 894 Father God in heaven
At 221 They were waiting
King of Christmas

The sermon for this Sunday can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=116183

3rd Sunday in Advent

2007-12-26T13:19:00.000-08:00

This week was a little unusal.

Due to a high number of children traditionally going away over Christmas at our Launceston congregation we decided to have their nativity worship service on this weekend. (So there worship service resembled what many people would experience at Christmas Eve...see Christmas eve)

Our Burnie and Devonport congregations had the readings and a worship service for the 3rd Sunday in Advent.
The theme for the 3rd Sunday in Advent: Living beyond today, focussed on eternity

Around the parish we sang the following:
LHS 2 O come, O come Immanuel
At 260 My soul is praising the Lord
At 341 If you're black or if you're white
At 158 Come Sing our praises loud
At 476 Here is bread
At 127 Because he lives
LHS 624 While Shepherds watched

The sermon for this week can be found at http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=116278

2nd Sunday in Advent, Worship

2007-12-10T15:03:00.000-08:00

Our theme for this week was Repentance the only way to righteousness

Around our congregations we sang:
LHS 2 O come, o come Immanuel
LHS 1 Hark a herald voice is calling
AT 34 Seek ye first
AT 345 Change my heart
At 329 This kingdom
At 345 Nothing but the blood
At 253 he turned my mourning into dancing

You can find this weeks sermon at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=115399

1st Sunday of Advent

2007-12-03T20:47:00.000-08:00

On the 2nd December all the congregations of Tasmania met at Launceston to begin the new church year.

Our theme: Be ready

Songs for the day:
Opening Songs: At 502 patiently waiting for you
LHS 6 Be ready, now all people
Praise Song: AT 510 Advent news
Children’s Song: AT 302 Soon and very soon
Song after the sermon: AT 420 Get ready
Communion Song: AT 285 A sign for the people
During communion: AT 310 Prayer of peace
AT 55 His name is wonderful
LHS 286 Lord Jesus who before you died
Sending Song: AT 313 Christ be our light

Sermon for this Sunday can be found at: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=115131

Christ the King Sunday

2007-11-21T11:55:00.001-08:00

Look what Jesus the king can do?

Around the parish we will be singing:
AT 161 Majesty
LHS 54 When I Survey the wonderous cross
At 493 Follow the saviour Jesus the king
At 206 As the deer pants
At 261 The servant king
At 55 His name is wonderful
HS Reign in me
CB Who's the king of the jungle?
LHS 67 And can it be?

HS= Hillsong
CB= Colin Buchanan

Sermon this year: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=114749
Sermon previous years: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=114386

Worship; 25th Sunday after Pentecost

2007-11-14T19:00:00.000-08:00

Our theme this week: Don't run from the trouble!!

This Sunday around our parish we will be singing:
AT 324 Saints of all time
At 294 God give you joy
AT 369 Shout to the Lord
At 101 Jesus please watch over us
LHS 894 Father God in heaven
At 200 one more step

This week's sermon: Living amongst trouble http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=114384

Worship: 24th Sunday after Pentecost

2007-11-07T05:09:00.000-08:00

This week our theme is: Living our lives focussed on the ressurection.

Around our parish we will be singing:
AT 324 Saints of all time (A.Kitson)
AT127 Because He lives (W and G Gaither)
AT424 Born forever (C. Jaensch)
AT155 We believe (C Landrey)
LHS 103 I know that my redeemer lives (S Medley)
AT312 Celebrate Jesus (R Fisenden)

This year's sermon: Living focussed on the resurrection http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113974

Worship: All Saints Sunday

2007-10-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we will be celebrating 'All Saints Day', based around the readings from the Revised Common Lectionary for year c of all saints saints day

Around our parish we will be singing:
At 324 Saints of all time (A. Kitson)
At 95 Make me a channel of your peace
LHS 191 The church’s one foundation (SJ Stone)
At 493 Follow the saviour (C Buchanan)
At 276 Into your death (R Mann)
SCE 118 Give thanks with a grateful heart (H Smith)

AT: Altogether Series
LHS: Lutheran Hymnal with Supplement
SCE: The Source compiled by Graham Kendrick

As part of the service:
we renewed our baptismal vows
we thanked God for the saints (both living and dead) in our lives
lit candles from the Christ candle to reflect the light (goodness) we see in saints comes from the light of Christ.

Children's sermon:
Using cellophane paper, and the Christ candle we introduced Children to the idea that saints are people that God shine through, and this is what makes them look good.

This year's sermon: Recognising Saints http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113693
Last Year's sermon: Death is not the end. http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113419

Worship: Reformation Sunday

2007-10-28T01:48:00.001-07:00

Our theme for this Sunday was: Living God's dream, freed from the unneccessary!!

Songs/hymns sung around our parish
AT 311 Be still and know that I am God (the Iona community)
LHS 195 A mighty fortress (Martin Luther)
At 31 freely freely (Lexicon Music)
AT 389 Light of the nations (Robin Mann)
At 288 Take and eat (Tim Tscharke)
LHS 851 Amazing Grace (John Newton)
AT 481 Free to Dance (Darlene Zschech)

AT refers to songs from the Alltogether series. These are available from http://www.acresources.com.au/, http://www.robinmann.com/
LHS refers to songs from Lutheran Hymnal with supplement. These are available from http://www.acresources.com.au/

This years reformation sermon: What is essential for freedom: http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113412
Last year's reformation sermon: Free from!! Freed For!!! http://sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=113145

Worship songs for Transfiguration

2007-02-16T03:09:00.000-08:00

AT 484 Hold the light for me
LHS 747 How good lord to be here
STJ 242 This little light of mine
At 217 Shine Jesus Shine
Millenium Prayer or LHS 894 Father God in heaven
AT 101 Jesus please watch over us

Candle lighting skit Nativity Advent 4: Mary

2006-12-17T19:48:00.000-08:00

Hello

I am Mary
At Christmas time, you hear a lot about me and Joseph

We didn’t plan to be special at Christmas
It just happened
Or perhaps I should say God had better plans than ours
God’s plans and vision for us was far bigger than what we thought was possible

Like many other people
Joseph and I had plans to be married
Our parents had arranged it
We were in love
We had planned to raise children
And for Joseph to go about building houses and other things

But then it happened, our plans were changed
An angel appeared to me and said I was going to have a baby
But not just any old baby
I was going to give birth to the Son of God
And His name would be called Jesus
And I discovered that Joseph wouldn’t be the father

Now for a moment I thought how could this be?
I am going to get married to Joseph
But then I remembered the teachings from my father and his father that with God anything is possible
And I mean anything!!!!

I was worried Joseph would not want anything to do with me or the baby
But he stuck around
He helped when things were tough
He loved both of us

But God’s surprises didn’t stop there
Even today he surprises us
He surprises us a lot with His love
As you open up your presents this Christmas
Remember that God brings you surprises

And this can be clearly seen when I look at the life, death and then life again of Jesus
Jesus showed people that God was loving
Jesus was a special child
He really loved people
He wanted everyone to receive the benefits of heaven
He dearly wanted many people to love God and love others as they loved themselves
And no matter what people did
He still kept on loving them, not only saying it but also showing it
He would still talk to them, help them, heal them and respect them
Jesus is a wonderful gift that God gave not only me
But also you, and you and you
Because as I discovered sometime later
The reason Jesus came to the world as a little baby was to show that God is love
And as he grew up God’s love could be seen in many different ways
You can still see this love as you read the pages of scripture,
Like the Gospel of Luke, why not plan to do this over the next year??
And as you do you will discover that Jesus came to do something very special
To pay the price so we could be free to be with Him and other Christians in heaven
This is how much God loves you

Over the last three weeks we have discovered that Christmas is about
God bringing us hope
God bringing us peace
God bringing us joy

And this week we have discovered that God bring us true love…
So along with the candles of hope, peace and joy let’s light the candle of love

Christmas programAmongst a mess....comes Christmas

2006-12-16T19:26:00.000-08:00

Children’s Christmas Program

Characters
Mum
Child
Innkeeper
Mary
Joseph
Angel (s)
Shepherd 1
Shepherd 2

ORDER OF SERVICE

Welcome
Carol: O Come All Ye Faithful
O come, all ye faithful,
Joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem;
Come and behold Him,
Born the king of angels:

O come, let us adore Him,O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!

Sing, choirs of angels,
Sing in exultation,
Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above;
Glory to God
In the highest:

O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!

Call to Worship
Pastor: The people who are now living in darkness will see a great light. They are now living in a very dark land. But a light will shine on them.

Person 1: Lord, you will make our nation larger. You will increase their joy. They will show you how glad they are. They will be as glad as people are at harvest time. They will be as glad as soldiers are when they share the things they've taken after a battle.

Person 2: You set Israel free from Midian long ago. In the same way, you will break the heavy yoke that weighs us down. You will break the wooden beams that are on our shoulders. You will break the rods of those who strike them down.

Pastor: Every fighting man's boot that is used in battle will be burned up. So will every piece of clothes that is covered with blood. All of them will be thrown into the fire.

ALL: A child will be born to us. A son will be given to us. He will rule over us. And he will be called Wonderful Adviser and Mighty God. He will also be called Father Who Lives Forever and Prince Who Brings Peace.

Person 4: The authority of his rule will continue to grow. The peace he brings will never end. He will rule on David's throne and over his kingdom. He will make the kingdom strong and secure. His rule will be based on what is fair and right. It will last forever. The Lord's great love will make sure that happens. He rules over all

ALL: We live under and worship the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen

Prayer of the Day

Song: AT 302 Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon we are going to see the King!
Soon and very soon we are going to see the King!
Soon and very soon we are going to see the King!

Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
We're going to see the King!

No more crying there, we are going to see the King!...

No more dying there, we are going to see the King!...

Andraé Crouch 1978

LHS 629 Silent Night
1 Silent night, holy night!
All is calm, all is bright
Round the virgin mother and child.
Holy infant, so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.

2 Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight.
Glories streams from heaven afar,
Heavenly hosts sing: Hallelujah!
Christ the Saviour is born,
Christ the Saviour is born.

3 Silent night, holy night!
Wonderous star, lend your light
With the angels let us sing
Hallelujah oto our king
Jesus, Lord, at Your birth,
Jesus, Lord, at Your birth.

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht
Joseph Mohr (1792-1848)
Tr. Anonymous, 1871

The scene opens with a box opened paper torn……and the Stable, and characters of animals, mary and joseph, angel(s), shepherds and baby Jesus all scattered over the floor…
The child is looking down at them, scratching his/her head….
Mum walks in….

Mum: What’s going on here? I can’t take my eyes off you for five minutes

Child: mmmm….its Christmas….you know that box you said not to touch
Mum: yes
Child: well I wanted to find out about Christmas…… you said it was the Christmas box So I opened it…..(said quickly) But I don’t see what use it is?
Mum:: At every birthday there are gifts, sometimes parcels and sometimes boxes. Tonight we celebrate Jesus’ birthday and this box has a special gift about Christmas. It contains things to remind us of the special gift that came down at Christmas time. It comes in several parts so lets pick them up and see what they mean.

The Birthplace
Mum: First, lets start with the easiest….the cattle shed
Child: What use is a Cattle Shed, I rather a motel or a caravan park with a pool and trampoline. What use is a cattle shed??
Mum: lets wait and see??

Carol: Once in Royal David’s City
LHS 632

1 Once in royal David’s city
Stood a lowly cattle shed,
Where a mother laid her baby
In a manger for His bed:
Mary was that mother mild,
Jesus Christ her little child.

2 He came down to earth from heaven
Who is God and Lord of all,
And His shelter was a stable,
And His cradle was a stall;
With the poor,mean and lowly
Lived on earth our Saviour holy.

The Innkeeper
Mum: What should we pick up next?
Child: How about that fellow over there?
As child goes to pick up the innkeeper, the innkeeper springs to life….
Innkeeper: That’s my cattle shed. It’s just behind my inn in Bethlehem. My animals stay in the shed and sometimes guests at my inn have animals too. Animals come to life and walk over to sit in the stable. One night my inn was so crowded I had to put some people out in the shed with the animals. You’ll hear that story tonight.

The Parents
Child: (rubbing eyes) Did you see that?
Mum: See what the cattle shed, inn keeper and animals?
Child: yes, but…
Mum: what should we pick up next?
Child: How about the man and woman over there….points to Mary and Joseph,
Mum: That’s Jesus’ mother and father, Mary and Joseph, lets put them in the cattle shed
(as they go to lift them they spring to life and walk to the stable)

Carol: LHS 741 Infant Holy, Infant Lowly
1 Infant holy,
infant lowly,
for his bed a cattle stall;
oxen lowing,
little knowing
Christ the babe is Lord of all;
swift are winging
angels singing,
nowells ringing,
tidings bringing,
Christ the babe is Lord of all.
Christ the babe is Lord of all

2 Flocks were sleeping,
shepherds keeping
vigil till the morning new
saw the glory,
heard the story,
tidings of a gospel true;
thus rejoicing,
free from sorrow,
praises voicing,
greet the morrow,
Christ the babe was born for you.
Christ the babe was born for you

W Zlobe Lezy
Polish carol
Tr. Edith Margaret Gellibrand Reed 1885-1933

Child: Mum why are they in the cattle shed…isn’t that where animals go? Why didn’t the innkeeper give them a room, with a nice warm bed?
Mum: In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire, and everyone went to register, each to his home town. Joseph and Mary went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem, to the town of David, because they were descendants of David. Joseph took his wife Mary, and stayed in a cattle shed because there was no room for them in the inn.

Child: Ummm….sleeping in a shed…..i don’t think I would do that?
Mum: They had no choice
Child: What next?
Mum: How about the angels
Child: Ohhh Yes I like angels.
Mum: Let’s put them near the cattle shed.
(As they go to pick up the angels…..they spring to life and move towards the cattle shed)

Carol: LHS 744 The first Nowell

1 The first Nowell the angel did say
was to certain poor shepherds in fields where they lay;
in fields where they lay, keeping their sheep
on a cold winter’s night that was so deep:

Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
born is the king of Israel.

Child: What did the angels do?
Mum: On the night when Mary and Joseph came to Bethlehem, some shepherds were in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks. The angels appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. The angels said to them,

Angels: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be
for all people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been
born to you: he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You
will find the baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger”.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased”.

Carol: LHS 33 Hark the Herald Angel Sing

1 Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the new-born King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled.
Joyful, all you nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With the angelic host proclaim:
Christ is born in Bethlehem.

Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new-born King.

3 Hail, the heaven-born Prince of peace!
Hail, the sun of righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings,
Risen with healing in His wings.
Mild He lays His glory by,
Born that we no more may die,
Born to raise us from the earth,
Born to give them second birth.

Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new-born King.

Charles Wesley (1707-1788)
Revised by George Whitefield (1714-1770),
Martin Madan (1726-1790) and others.

The Visitors
Mum: So when Jesus was born, it was good news in heaven and on earth. The angels celebrated his birthday in the heavens and they told the shepherds the good news of His birth, so that it was celebrated on earth too. There is still more to pick up.
Child: What about the shepherds?
(as they go to pick up the shepherds they spring to life)

Carol LHS 624 While Shepherds Watched their Flocks by Night
1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.

‘To you in David’s town this day
Is born of David’s line
A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord;
And this shall be the sign:

‘The heavenly babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swaddling clothes,
And in a manger laid.’

‘All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace;
Good-will henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease.’

Nahum Tate (1652-1715)

Shepherd 1: When the angles had left us and gone into heaven, we said to one another,
“Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has told us about”.
So we hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the Baby who was lying in the manger. When we saw the Baby, we told people everywhere what we had been told about this child.

Shepherd 2: Well, how could we keep the angel’s message to ourselves? We had to tell all the people we met about this special birthday. The angels of heaven had told us that the child was the promised Saviour. We heard the angel choir sing praise to God who had brought his peace to people on earth.

The Child
Child: I have nearly picked it all up. I should be rewarded for picking up this mess.
Mum: There is still one more piece to go
Child: The baby in this crib
Mum: That’s baby Jesus

(child places Jesus in the manger)

Carol: LHS 634 Away in a Manger

1 Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

2 The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus no crying He makes.
I love Thee, Lord Jesus; look down from the sky,
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.

3 Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask Thee to stay
Close by me for ever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven, to live with Thee there.

Anonymous, U.S.A., c.1883
St.3: John Thomas McFarland (1851-1913)

Child: Baby Jesus is in the manger now. He looks like any other baby. Why is He so special that you have all come here to celebrate His birthday?

AT 329 This Kingdom version 2
Jesus God's graciousness revealed

The love of God, the heart of God,revealed to us.

Jesus, redemption's sacrifice our hope revived,

lives reconciled, His grace has come.

And his kingdom will know no end

and his mercy shall know no bounds

for the grace and the compassion

Of this kingdom's King has come.
And now forgiveness reigns

And his love now rules

Our hope and trust for all eternity

Jesus God's graciousness revealed.

Jesus the expression of God's love

The Grace of God,

The Word of God, revealed to us

Jesus, God's heart of love displayed Our hope revived,

lives reconciled, His grace has come.

And his kingdom will know no end

And his mercy shall know no bounds

For the grace and the compassion

Of this kingdom's King has come.
And now forgiveness reigns

And his love now rules

Our hope and trust for all eternity

Jesus God's graciousness revealed

Geoff Bullock 1995

Stating our faith

Apostles or Nicene creed)

Address

Song: The King of Christmas by Colin Buchanan

Prayers

Pastor: At birthday parties we always have a cake and candles.

It is especially good to light candles at Jesus’ birthday, because he is the light of the world.
(candle is lit beside manger scene)

Carol: LHS 627 Joy to the World

1 Joy to the world! the Lord is come:
Let earth receive its king;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing.
And heaven and nature sing.
And heaven and heaven and nature sing.

2 Joy to the world! the Saviour reigns:
Let us our songs employ,
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy.
Repeat the sounding joy.
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love.
And wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders of His love

Isaac Watts (1674-1748)

Blessing

AT 194 Christmas Blessing
May the feet of God walk with you
And His hand hold you tight,
May the eye of God rest on you,
And his ear hear your cry,
May the smile of God be for you, and His breath give you life.
May the Child of God grow in you, and His love bring you home.

Copyright Robin Mann and Aubrey Podlich

Advent 3 Songs

2006-12-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

LHS 2 O come, o come immanuel
At 325 Sing to God Iona Community
Christ the king Colin Buchanan
At 206 As the deer pants Martin Nystrom
At 288 take and eat Tim Tscharke
At 294 God give you joy Grace Simpson

Candle lighting Advent 3....animals

2006-12-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

Hello I am one of the animals who were at that first Christmas

You maybe surprised….but we can talk

Are you looking forward to Christmas?
For all the visitors, some expected and some unexpected?
Are you looking forward to being surprised by a person or two?

I can you tell you, at that first Christmas we were surprised…
Here we were thinking we were all comfortable….
Sitting in what we thought was OUR stable,
preparing to rest
When our quiet night was interrupted by some unexpected guests!!!
These were guests who weren’t even supposed to be in OUR stable’
A stable is no place for humans to sleep, its for animals!!!
But that innkeeper….
Shared some of our space with a young man and young woman

And boy did they mess things up
They disturbed our sleep,
They moved things around
They interrupted what we thought was a peaceful and organised life

You see not long after they arrived, a baby was born
Do you know how much noise babies make?
Also they used our feeding bucket for His bed
But it didn’t stop there
Other people came visiting, looking for this baby!!!
There were some smelly shepherds
Some characters from a foreign country with gifts
And a lot of angels
And there was this huge star lighting up the place

Everyone was happy
They were singing

And you know what?
Their joy rubbed off on us
Because we soon discovered that we were experiencing something special
God was born in our stable
We were proud

So we told everyone
And he was bringing hope and peace to the world as you discovered last week
But not only this he brought joy to us
And he brings true and long lasting joy to everyone
So with the candles of hope and peace
Lets light the candle of joy

Because as we discovered when God enters our space we discover true joy no matter how inconvienent, it may be at the time

Hymns and songs for Advent 2

2006-12-07T19:21:00.000-08:00

LHS 2 O come O Come Immanuel
AT 246 They word
CD: Christ is the king of Christmas Colin Buchanan
AT 155 I believe
At 288 take and eat this body
AT 95 make me a channel of your peace

Nativity Candle lighting skit Advent 2

2006-12-04T22:25:00.000-08:00

Hello
I am not used to talking to groups of people
In fact as a shepherd I am not really used to groups of people at all

Its not that I don’t like people, its just that they tend to stay away from me.
I am not quite sure why?
What’s wrong with not having a shower for 30 days?
Or smelling like you have slept curled up to a sheep?
I suppose its because I don’t have much to offer….I live a fairly rough life
Perhaps people think I am a little strange living in the bush with wild animals, snakes and creepy crawlies, with my closest friends being sheep
Even my brother doesn’t invite me to his Christmas parties!!!

So could you imagine my surprise when many years ago on that first Christmas
A whole bunch of angels came to me and told me some news
There was so many of them that the whole night sky went from complete blackness to a really bright white….
it was like it was daylight, yet it was after midnight
The entire sky was filled with angels, singing

I thought they had lost their way out here in the bush!!
Why would anyone want to tell me any news…
there are more important people in the world
People who have a lot more to offer than me

But it turned out the news was for me
We were one of the first to be told about the birth of baby Jesus
We were one of the first to be told about that very first Christmas
Not only this we were told where we could find the baby,
Would you believe he was born in an animal shed??

I still can’t believe it that God would want us smelly old shepherds to be the first to know about the special gift he sent at Christmas
But that seems to be God’s way
To be willing to come to anyone and everyone,
even people like me

Some years later he did something similar
He could of chosen anyone to be his messenger
But he chose a weird, rough looking character called John the Baptist,
He was so weird that he ate bugs and only wore camel hair shorts and shirt
No one really liked him much
He came from the bush with a message to get ready
To get ready for Jesus

Are you getting ready to celebrate the coming of Jesus?
This is a good thing to get ready for, because
Jesus makes the rough ways smooth,
and probably rough people smooth too
Not only this, he makes it possible for us to see and experience God’s salvation.
He makes it possible for us to have peace with God and with other people

Last week we lit the candle of hope with Gasper the wise man
This week as we prepare to celebrate Christmas lets light the candle of peace
As a reminder that Jesus brings peace by making the the rough ways smooth
For our life on life heaven and earth

Songs and hymns for Advent 1

2006-11-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

Gathering Song: LHS 2 O come O come Emmanuel (modernised words) from the Great Antiphons 12-13th Century
Kids Song: The King of Christmas © 2005 Colin Buchanan...from The King of Christmas cd https://secure.colinbuchanan.com.au/shop/shop92.html

AT 233 He will listen to you © Mark Heard
LHS 17 Come thou long expected Jesus Charles Wesley
AT 355 Freedom is coming © Ultryck Publishing Sweden
AT 434 Sing out for joy He is coming © 1987 David R Dell

AT refers to All Together series published by Openbook and Robin Mann
LHS refers to Lutheran Hymnal with Supplement published by Openbook

To obtain copies visit
www.openbook.com.au
http://www.robinmann.com/

Advent lighting of the candles skit

2006-11-30T12:33:00.000-08:00

We are in Advent. Advent means coming...as a community of Christians we use this time to prepare for the second coming of Jesus.

Many church's use an advent wreath in their worship with four coloured candles (sometime all the same colour, sometimes different colours) plus a white Christ Candle. The four coloured candles represent Hope, Peace, Love and Joy

Each week we will be lighting the advent candle following discussion from one of the characters of the nativity scene.

Advent 1: Wise men

Wise man:
Hello
My name is Gaspar,
Many people know me as one of the wise men
But do you know there is nothing special about me or the other two wise fellows, we simply try to be in touch with the right things and the right people
This meant listening to God and His promises and the signs that he said would occur
This is how we prepared for that first Christmas!!!

What about you, how do you prepare for Christmas??

Now some of my friends are preparing for Christmas by going to parties, eating lots, working out how they will deal with family, trying to finish work, planning holidays and looking for bargains.
On the other hand some of my other friends don’t like this time of the year at all. They don’t have many friends, they are missing someone or they simply want to avoid crowds so keep to themselves.

We found it best to prepare for Christmas by first listening to God
Then looking out for the signs he said would occur
And looking forward to the promises he makes

And you how we found Him,
We followed what God said would occur when He was born
We followed that bright star, because that is what God said would lead us to the new king.

As you prepare for Christmas
Take some time to follow the light of Jesus
The light that gives you and me hope of a better future

You know you can easily do this through out Advent by spending some time everyday listening to God and talking to Him
Take home the booklet ‘The Gift of Christmas’ and use it for your personal or family devotions everyday.
Listen for his promises and the Good News He brings

We now light the candle of hope
Because our king Jesus gives us hope no matter what we face

Advent 2: Shepherds, heard from John Baptist
Advent 3: One of the Animals in the inn, (Thessalonians)
Advent 4/Christmas eve: Mary and Joseph

©2006 Richard Schwedes. Churches, schools, sunday schools and families are free to use this play. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Everyone else should contact me for permission. schwedes@ozemail.com.au