A Liturgy to Celebrate the Gifts of Service to the Larger Church

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Today we are gathered to celebrate the wonderful people who have volunteered their time, talent,  and treasure to the larger church, through service to Flint River Presbytery, Synod of the South Atlantic,  and the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA).   Paul tells us that there are variety of gifts and varieties of activities,  but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone as a manifestation of the Holy Spirit for the common good. There is no insignificant work that is done among us. It is appropriate on this day that we should recognize the work that is done by so many faithful and dedicated people, give thanks to Almighty God for the variety of ways our people serve. (It is appropriate to list the names of those in your congregation who serve and how they serve or have served)

Suggested Scripture: Romans 12:9-13 or 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

Leader:	We acknowledge and express heartfelt appreciation for the many women and men, young and old , who have answered the call to serve the larger church.
People:	We celebrate their courage, dedication and willingness to allow God to use them for the variety of ministries.
Leader:	We give thanks for those who have served on presbytery committees, task forces, councils and commissions.
People:	We are mutually blessed by your work and service.
Leader:	We give thanks for all who have given energy, care, and sleep chaperoning our youth and children at Montreat or Dogwood  Acres and other activities for our younger disciples.
People:	We celebrate the relationships these faithful adults build and sustain with our children and youth.
Leader:	We give thanks for all who have served the Synod and General Assembly as commissioners or through other forms of service.
People:	Thanks be to God for those who seek to serve within the connectional church.
Leader:	We lift up the ones whose labor and effort are unseen and unsung, but who carry Christ’s ministry into our community and world.
People:	Thank you God for the love that motivates and empowers your people to serve.
Leader:	We ask you, O Lord to work through us, and help us always to work for you. Inspire us to be the hands and feet of Christ in new and surprising ways.
People:	Keep our eyes open to the possibilities around us; grant us strength and courage to serve Christ and others. Amen.
Benediction:	As you go to live and serve, go with the sure knowledge that the God who calls you will go before you, beside you and with you. May God bless and keep you this day and forevermore. Amen.