Sunday, January 17, 2021
​Season of Epiphany

Prelude            “The Great Commission”    (arr. Livingstone)            Lynn McGinnis
Invitation to Worship
Jesus comes along side us and calls us by name saying “Follow me.”
And we look around to see who else Jesus could be talking to. 
But here we are, ready to listen and be transformed.


Time of Prayer 
Time for Silent Prayers…
We bring to God the names on our hearts this morning…
We bring to God the thoughts and concerns for our nation and God’s world…
We bring to God the desires for our own lives…
We place these at the feet of our Lord and Savior. We are thankful for the blessings given, for grace and forgiveness and for you hearing us this day, O God. Now,
open our ears, that we might hear your Word speaking to us in this moment. Open our ears, that we might listen for your voice calling to us through scripture. Open our ears, that we might understand your promises to followers both old and young, ancient and modern. Open our hearts, O God, that we might enter into the love you offer us. Amen.


Offering Time
God, you are the source of all goodness and life. We bring our offering to you, knowing that all we have comes from you. We answer your call to come with all we have and all we are, for the work you have for us in your kingdom on earth. Amen


If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 


Offertory            “Lord, Speak to Me”            (arr. Broughton)    
    
Scriptures of the Day            1 Samuel 3:1–10 and John 1:43–51
​
Message            “A Tale of Two Followers”            Pastor Nancy White


Epiphany Prayer
Beloved God,
You know us inside and out and you still call us to serve you.
Lord, honestly we are often hesitant, afraid, and wish to remain hidden.
    Empower us to listen for and to hear your call
    Empower us to answer your call with “Here I am Lord”
    Empower us to follow you when you call us to follow you.
Lord of mercy and justice,
    So many have gone before us working to bring
    Justice and peace to our country and our world.
    Their footsteps seem too big to step into
    to continue the work you have called us all to;
    so we hesitantly step one step at a time,
    bringing your seeds of hope, justice and peace
    in a world crying out for them.
Lord of hope,
    We pray for our country and those who lead us in tumultuous times at all levels.             We pray for healing of our country, reconciliation, forgiveness and peace.
Lord of peace,
    We pray for your compassion and healing for those individuals in our                 congregation who need it. 
    We pray for your comfort and presence for those who are grieving lonely and             oppressed. We pray for warmth, shelter, clothing and food for those who are             without.
Lord we say to you this day,
    “Here we are your servants willing to preach your word,
    offer care where care is needed,
    presence where presence is needed,
    your love where your love is needed.”
Lord, strengthen us for our ministry today and everyday.
In the name of the Father, Son and the Holy spirit. Amen.


Closing Prayer
Go now. Listen for the voice of the Lord and follow wherever it leads.
And may God be with you and speak through you;
May Christ Jesus be one with you and raise you to life;
And may the Holy Spirit dwell within you and make you holy. Amen


Postlude            “Cry of My Heart”            (comp. Butler)        


Tuesday evening at 5:30 pm, there will be a national time of remembrance for those who have passed from covid-19. Churches have been invited to participate with the ringing of bells and sharing of light. Pastor Nancy hopes to participate by ringing the bells at MUMC and the placement of luminaries at the ramp entrance for a short time. She also hopes to share this with facebook live and short video. 


The Finance Team will meet at 6 pm on Tuesday in Friendship Hall. Please wear masks.


We share with you the announcement from Pastor Bronson Clark that due to some personal situations with his family, he will be leaving his appointment at Bethesda UMC in April. Sara has begun a job in North Carolina and she, with the children, are already there. We invite you to keep the Clark family in your prayers, as well as the church family. We will find a way to pass along blessings in the future.


Winona Sayre has had some health concerns since moving to OH in the fall. Cards are appreciated and should be sent to the address in the church directory: c/o Mary Beth Ward, 2860 Faye Drive, Zanesville, OH  43701

Sunday, January 10, 2021
​Baptism of the Lord

Invitation to Worship
Today we celebrate a special baptism; the baptism of Jesus of Nazareth.
God says: Look! See my chosen servant, the One in whom I utterly delight;
I have placed my Spirit on him, he will bring true justice to the nations.
When Jesus was baptized, the heavens opened up, and Spirit came down like a dove;
and there was a voice from heaven saying:
“This is my dearly loved Son, with whom I am delighted.”
The joy of the Lord be with you all.
And also with you.


Time of Prayer 
Most wonderful God, foolish and flawed though we are, we too delight in your beloved Son. As in his name we gather with many praises, may the heavens be opened for us,
that we may catch a glimpse of that Light and Love that transforms our common days
with a beauty not of our making.
We know that you call us to compassion and mercy
on behalf of those in need. We offer our prayers for the church and the world, naming before you…
Lord God, you revealed your Son in the waters of the Jordan and anointed him with the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim good news to all people. Sanctify us by the same Spirit, that we may proclaim the healing power of the gospel by acts of love in your name. Through Christ Jesus our Lord.  AMEN!


Offering Time
God of redemption and new life, we focus once more this day on the greatest gift ever given – Jesus, our Savior. As we leave a painful year behind and look with hope to the new year ahead, help us to live and give of ourselves as those who know every day what a great gift we have been given. May it move us to give our whole selves more freely! In the name of Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we pray!  AMEN.
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 
    

Scripture    Mark 1: 4–11 and Psalm 29
Message                                Pastor Nancy White
Remembering our Baptism
LITANY: GOD OF THE WATERS.     
(inspired by Mark 1: 4-11, Luke 3:21-22)  written by Scott A. Ressman in Immerse Yourself: Elements for a Liturgy on Baptism of Christ Sunday
God of the waters. Water of birth,
moving us from safety into the world.
God of the waters. Water of connection,
engaging the playful Spirit,
the passionate Christ,
the challenging God.
God of the waters. Water of life,
sustaining,
quenching,
cleansing.
God of the waters. Water of trouble,
journeying us from here to there,
from the known to the unknown.
God of the waters.
Birth us.
Connect us.
Live in us.
Trouble us.
Closing Prayer
Go now, and live in the spirit of baptism,
even when you are led into wild and hard places.
With repentance and trust, give yourselves to God,
and with fasting and prayer,
strengthen yourselves against the ways of the tempter.
And may God enfold you in tender and lasting love.
May Christ be beside you in times of struggle.
And may the Spirit guide you back to the path whenever you stray,
that you may keep the covenant.
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord,
In the name of Christ.  AMEN.

January 3, 2021
​Epiphany of the Lord

Prelude        “Pastorale Symphony” Handel/arr.Barnett        Lynn McGinnis


Invitation to Worship
Arise; shine for your light has come!
          We are called out of our darkness into light.
Lift up your eyes and look around.
          We rejoice in the gift of light.
Come let us worship the God of light and joy and peace.


Time of Prayer 
As children of God and heirs of the promise, let us pray to the Lord saying “Loving God, hear our prayer.”
For the church of God, that all those baptized unto Christ may shine like the dawn, bear witness to the Good News of heaven and light the way of salvation in Jesus Christ, let us pray to the Lord: “Loving God, 
hear our prayer.”
For the nations of the earth, that governments and those in authority may protect the vulnerable, shelter the oppressed, and pursue the way of peace, let us pray to the Lord: “Loving God, 
hear our prayer.”
For kindness to abound, compassion to prevail, and harmony to endure, let us pray to the Lord: “Loving God, 
hear our prayers.”
For those troubled with illness, hardship, or conflict, that they may receive healing for their bodies, release from their burdens, and mending of their brokenness. We name before you…and so, let us pray to the Lord: “Loving God, 
hear our prayers.”
Hear us, O God, for our eyes have seen your salvation. Let your light shine through us and fill the world with the radiance of your love revealed in Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns in glory. AMEN


Offering Time
God of light and promise, we bring our gifts to further your work in a dark world. May they bring light that all might walk in the sphere of your love.  AMEN


If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 


Offertory        “He Shall Feed His Flock”        Handel/arr. Broughton    


Scripture        Isaiah 60:1–6    
Message                                          Pastor Nancy White


Sacrament of Holy Communion
If you wish to celebrate the sacrament, please pick up the elements at the door. There are 2 ‘peel back’ layers with the first opening to the wafer/bread and the second with the juice. You will wish to be careful as you open them. You will be directed to partake of the elements by Pastor Nancy.


Covenant Prayer in the Wesleyan Tradition
    I am no longer my own, but thine.
    Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom though wilt.
    Put me to doing, put me to suffering.
    Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for them,
        exalted for thee or brought low by thee.
    Let me be full, let me be empty.
    Let me have all things, let me have nothing.
    I freely and heartily yield all things
        to thy pleasure and disposal.
    And now, O glorious and blessed God,
        Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
        thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it.
    And the covenant which I have made on earth,
        let it be ratified in heaven. AMEN


Closing Prayer
May the blessing of the God of light rest upon you.
May you shine forth for the kingdom.  AMEN


Postlude        “O Thou that Tellest”        Handel/arr Smith

Sunday, December 27, 2020
​First Sunday After Christmas

Sunday, December 20, 2020
​Fourth Sunday of Advent

Sunday, December 13, 2020
Third Sunday of Advent

Sunday, December 6, 2020
​Second Sunday of Advent

Sunday, November 29, 2020
​First Sunday of Advent

The bulletin can be downloaded from the Publications tab.

​Sunday, November 22, 2020
​Christ the King Sunday

Prelude            “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come” (arr Paxton)            Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
Make a joyful noise, a noise of love and care!
Praise God with generosity and compassion!
Sing to the Lord with acts of kindness!
Give God glory with missions of mercy!
Make a joyful noise, a noise of love and care!
Praise God with justice and righteousness!

Time of Prayer 
Let us pray for the needs of the world and for those needs on our hearts and in our minds this day.
We pray for all leaders and people of the world that injustice might be exposed and we might work together to build God’s reign of peace.
We pray for all who yearn for your light to break forth in places of sickness, danger, and worry, that we may find our way to your glorious realm through our love for one another. We especially name before you today…
We pray that the dawning of your new day will bring hope and healing. Fill your people with the light of your love that we may be still and know that you are God, and stand in wonder of your majesty. Rouse us to live in this present age in light of our hope for your return. Give us courage and confidence to live in your hope, awakened to your presence. Inspire us to encourage each other, to press harder than we think we can, to work for your new creation.
For we hope to dwell forever with you, our Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer. And in the name of Jesus Christ, the King, we pray this prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Message to the Young People

Offering Time
In giving to God, we grow closer to God. As we offer our lives and labor to the God who freely gives the treasure of eternal life in Christ, let us give thanks for the gift beyond value. 
Bless our gifts that we offer this day. With them, may we share your love with others that all may enter into your eternal joy. Amen
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory              “We Gather Together” ( arr Lau)          Lynn McGinnis

Scripture             Matthew 25:31–46

Message              “Whenever”            Pastor Nancy White

Prayer of Confession
God of Glory, we do not always see your glory in the world around us.
Forgive us when we fail to see you in the eyes of others, on the faces of others, in the cries of others. Forgive us when we fail to see you in our everyday lives. Forgive us when we are afraid to act, afraid to care.
Encourage us, God of Glory. Help us to see with eyes of compassion, that we might be your loving presence in the world. Amen

Closing Prayer
May the grace of Christ surround you, the love of God astound you, and the Holy Spirit keep you, this day and forevermore. 

Postlude                “Now Thank We All Our God” (composer Cruger)              Lynn McGinnis

There will be a short devotional video shared on Wednesday for Thanksgiving Week. You are invited to view it via the church facebook page or the website. 
Poinsettia orders forms are available now and need to be returned by November 30. You are invited to order a poinsettia, in memory or in honor of a loved one, to be placed in the sanctuary on Sunday, December 13, and Sunday December 20. You are also encouraged to consider a ‘virtual’ poinsettia by donating in memory or honor of someone. We will send a card to acknowledge the donation if an address is provided. The live poinsettias will be available for pick up via delivery to your car following worship on December 20.
Starting with next Sunday, there will be an opportunity to begin gathering items and participating in various Advent/Christmas programs:
1-Sign up via a message to the church or Pastor Nancy for items needed for the 7 Christmas food boxes we will be sending out. You may wish to step into the hall of the church to sign up for items, but please maintain the distance and mask guidelines. Items are needed by December 15.
2-Donations of new toys or gifts for children and youth maybe dropped off here or at ECCHO by mid December as well. 
3-We will have a basket for any donations of gloves or hats for the school children.

Sunday, November 15, 2020
​24th Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude                 The Call to Service (arr. Kendall)                 Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
Clothe yourselves with faith and love; be confident in your salvation in Christ Jesus.
The Lord is with us! Let us worship God.

Prayer Time
Almighty God, you have shown us your ways and nurtured us with your love. Even so, we have not lived according to your will and for that we seek your forgiveness. We are grateful to live as your beloved children in the light of Christ. We are grateful for your promise of forgiveness. We are grateful for your many abundant blessings rained down upon us.
Hear us as we pray now for the needs of the world, as we offer prayers for ourselves and others. We pray for justice for the oppressed, for peace of heart and mind, for healing and comfort for those in need, for relief of worry and fear.
We pray for these we name before you now…
We pray for ourselves as well…
We pray that you would know our hearts of appreciation and our eagerness to follow after your ways as we pray now the pray offered to us by your son:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Message to the Young People

Apostle’s Creed
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;
the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at
the right hand of God the Father Almighty; 
from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the
resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen

Offering Time
God has entrusted us with much to be thankful for. May we give thanks to our Creator, our Redeemer and Sustainer. May we offer the gifts back unto God to move his kingdom forward here on earth. Amen
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory                 Lord, as in Thy Presence (Ralsey)                 Lynn McGinnis

Scripture Romans 5:1–5

Message                 Pastor Nancy White

Closing Prayer
The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you, and remain with you always. Amen

Postlude                 What Does the Lord Require of You (Strathdee)                 Lynn McGinnis


Have you checked out the gratitude moments shared on the facebook page this month from Nancy Murrell and David & Winalee Blackwood? We thank them for their stories. We would like to feature some more gratitude moments on facebook and the website. If you would like to participate, please record a video of you/your family expressing what they are thankful for even in this unsettling time of living. You may also take a photo of some things/people you are thankful for and send those with an explanation that can be shared.
Our Jeanette Rickard is going to relocate to Rome, GA within the next week. While we are sad to lose her in our community and congregation, we are happy that she will be near her daughter Miriam and family. We invite you to join in a drive by send off on Tuesday, November 17 from 
2 PM - 2:30ish PM at the porch of Dave and Winalee Blackwood, 1155 Pike Street. It will be a safe, socially distanced time to share some waves and well wishes. Jeannette likely doesn’t need anything else to pack and move, but notes and cards are very welcome.

Sunday, November 8, 2020
23rd Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude                 “Jesus Shall Reign” (arr Birch)                 Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
We enter worship once again this day
choosing to serve you, God, and no other.
With waiting hearts we come to worship.
We enter as witnesses to one another
to live out our baptism and grow into the Body of Christ.
With waiting hearts we come to worship
We enter dependent on the Spirit
to be with us in our thoughts and feelings.
With waiting hearts we come to worship.

Prayer Time
Holy One, we move through our days with dreams of your kingdom. We give thanks for all the ways you light our path and keep us in the ways of hope
We hope for those who have received or experienced troubling or joyful news in these days. We name before you those we hold dear and those whom we have been asked to lift unto you…
God, we await your way of love.
We pray for our own hearts that impatiently stretch ahead of us with expectations of ourselves, our community, and your holy work with us. We pray for all who await a renewed sense of your presence.
God, we await your way of love.
Creator God, giver of all blessings, hear us as we pray…
For generous hearts to share with our neighbors.
For the vision necessary to leave our comfortable seats in search of what you desire for your people and your world.
For forgiveness for the ways our selfishness and our apathy collide. 
God, we await your way of love.
Let us now join in the prayer taught by your son:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Message to the Young People

Apostle’s Creed
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;
the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at
the right hand of God the Father Almighty; 
from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the
resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen

Offering Time 
Ever vigilant God, you watch over us every night as we sleep and every day as we rise to do our work and as we feast on the food you provide. Your care for us is never ceasing. We long to be as vigilant as we strive to be the kingdom-ready church you desire here on earth. Help us to keep our eyes and ears open to the needs around us. May we give so generously that when it is time to close our eyes in sleep, we will rest knowing we have been faithful and vigilant in our caring and compassion. In Christ, we pray. Amen.
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory           “Canzona” (arr Smith)           Lynn McGinnis

Scripture           Luke 6:37–-38

Message           "A Generous Spirit”           Pastor Nancy White

Closing Prayer

Postlude                 “Together We Serve” (composer Damon)                ​ Lynn McGinnis

For November, we would like to feature some special gratitude videos on facebook and the website. If you would like to participate, please record a video of you/your family expressing what they are thankful for even in this unsettling time of living. You may also take a photo of some things/people you are thankful for and send those with an explanation that can be shared.

There will be a special video posted on Wednesday in recognition of Veteran’s Day. We thank all those who serve, or have served, and the sacrifices made by these men and women and their families.

Sunday, November 1, 2020
​All Saints Day

In Memory

Worship Service

It Is Well from 2019 by Robert Jackson and Lynn McGinnis

​
​Order of Worship
​

Prelude          “It is Well with My Soul” (arr DeCou)           Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
Leader: We have come to affirm our historic faith.
People: To worship the God of our mothers and fathers.
Leader: We have come to remember God’s benefits to us the living.
People: To respond in thanksgiving to the mighty works of God in our lives.
Leader: We have come to affirm our trust in the God of all futures,
People: To whose name be blessing and honor, glory and power forever and ever. Amen.
(Ruth Duck, Bread for the Journey, Pilgrim Press, 1981, p.56.)

Time of Remembrance
This is a day of looking forward, even as we remember the past we shared with the beloved of God. We long for the fulfillment of the promises and the in-breaking of eternity that we might stand with those who have gone before us. So, while there is sadness and the grief of loss, there is also the joy of the promise. So, we sing a song with the saints of God in hope and celebration of all that is ours in God.
Reading of “I Sing a Song of the Saints of God” (712, United Methodist Hymnal)
V1 “I sing a song of the saints of God, patient and brave and true, who toiled and bought and lived and died for the Lord they loved and knew. And one was a doctor, and one was a queen and one was a shepherdess on the green. They were all of them saints of God, and I mean, God helping, to be one too”
Let us pray (in silence) as we rejoice and honor all the saints. This day we name and give thanks for the witness of… Frances Blake, Jim Davis, Lowell Murrell, Gary Neely, Don Stephens, Harold Sullivan, Bobbi Jo Wells 
Almighty God, your saints are one with you in the mystical body of Christ;
Give us grace to follow them in all virtue and holiness until we come to those inexpressible joys which you have prepared for those who truly love you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God now and forever. Amen.
V2 “They loved their Lord so dear, so dear and his love made them strong; and they followed the right for Jesus’ sake the whole of their good lives long. And one was a soldier, and one a priest, and one was slain by a fierce wild breast, and there’s not any reason, no, not the least, why I shouldn’t be one too.”

Time of Offering
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host’ praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk.

Offertory              “Ivory Palaces” (arr. Warriner)              Lynn McGinnis

Scripture Revelations 7: 9-17

Reflection           “May We too, Be They”           Pastor Nancy White
V3 “They lived not only in ages past; there was hundreds of thousands still. The world is bright with the joyous saints who love to do Jesus’ will. You can meet them in school, on the street, in the store, in church, by the sea, in the house next door, they are saints of God, whether rich or poor, and I mean to be one too.” 

Benediction
Blessing and glory and wisdom
and thanksgiving and honor and power
and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen!
We go out to be God’s people.
Go in strength to be the saints of God
for you will hunger no more, and thirst no more;
the sun will not strike you, nor any scorching heat.
We go out to be God’s people.
Live the way of God with confidence
for God is your shepherd,
and will guide you to the spring of life.
We go out to be God’s people.
(from Seasons of the Spirit: All Saints Day—Year A, published by WoodLake Publishing). 

Postlude “For All the Saints” (Composer-Williams) Lynn McGinnis

The sanctuary flowers are given to the glory days of God.
Meetings—Finance Committee,  Tuesday at 6pm; Worship Team, Next Sunday after worship
Thank you for the gifts toward SOCKtober and keeping toes warm!
Remember to share your photos of Veterans, Service Men & Women (present or past) early this week with Pastor Nancy via email, text or private message.
We would love to have your videos, photographs/words of gratitude to share this month too.
************************************************************
The week ahead promises to hold excitement and challenges. We are called to be prayerful and to remember that we should “Do no harm. Do good. Stay in love with God.” May we all be peacemakers, a calm presence, and understand that all people matter to God regardless. You are invited to join together in praying The Prayer of St. Francis daily through this week. 
Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood, as to understand; to be loved, as to love; for it is in giving that we receive, it is I pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Sunday, October 25, 2020
​21st Sunday After Pentecost

Invitation to Worship
L: They asked Jesus, “What is the greatest commandment?”
P: He said that each one should love the Lord their God with all their hearts and with all their souls and with all their minds.
“Love the Lord Your God” (#2168 TFWS)
L: Jesus has given all of us the key to faithful discipleship.
P: Yet he added something that they had counted as unimportant.
L: That’s right! He said that they should also love their neighbors as they loved themselves.
P: That’s not always easy, but it is vitally important.
“Love the Lord Your God” 
L: Thanks be to Jesus who gives us the total picture of faithful discipleship.
P: Open our hearts, Lord, today that we might truly follow these commandments.

Prayer Time
Holy God, you have provided all that we have needed. You have walked alongside of us as we have journeyed through wilderness and valley. You have climbed the heights of mountains with us. We give you praise and thanks with grateful hearts.
We lift up those who live in the ‘not yet,’ those who live in the shadow of disappointment. We lift up those who long for a better future for themselves and those they love and a better future for your world. 
We lift up those who live with the weight of responsibilities that seem overwhelming at times, those who carry the burden of pain for others and themselves.
We lift up those who live in obscurity and loneliness especially in these uncertain times.
We lift up those we who hurt, who seek after healing and peace. We lift up the names of …
Lay your holy hands upon those we have named in this time. Lay your holy hands upon each of us, empowering God, that we might be the church you expect us to be. Sustain us through your son Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray the prayer he gave the disciples: 
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Message to the Young People

Offering Time 
Lord of all we see and all that we cannot see: Give us this day a glimpse of the complexities of the world and the simplicity of living our lives centered in you; loving you with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbors well. Bless the gifts we offer you; but in our giving, help us focus on these other more basic gifts. May the love we show you and others be a testimony of whom we follow and who is worthy of our devotion. In Christ’s holy name, we pray. Amen. 
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Scripture                     Matthew 22:34–46

Message                       Pastor Nancy White

Closing Prayer
As partners with God, go to serve God’s world.
As friends of Christ, go to share Christ’s love.
Go with the blessing of God, the strength of Jesus Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit leading you.
Upcoming: For November, we would like to feature some special gratitude videos on facebook and the website. If you would like to participate, please record a video of you/your family expressing what they are thankful for even in this unsettling time of living. You may also take a photo of some thing/things/people you are thankful for and send those with an explanation that can be shared.
For Veteran's Day in November we want to put together a slide show but we need your photos of veterans in the church and your family. They may be living or deceased. Please submit via email or text to Pastor Nancy and include name and branch of service. You may email them to revnancywhite@gmail.com, ​ or text them to her at 304 549 0496.

Sunday, October 18, 2020
​20th Sunday After Pentecost

Sunday, October 11, 2020
​19th Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude    “Praise God”       (H. Livingston, Jr.)                Lynn McGinnis
Invitation to Worship
In truth and love, God has called us for this time of worship. God has said to us,
       “You are my people. I am your God!”
Not once, but again and again, the word will be spoken and there will be rejoicing all over the earth. My word will ring out with a glad cry!”
         “You are my people. I am your God!”
Come let us be glad as we sing God’s praises with awe and wonder.
         In the spirit of joy, we lift our voices as God’s people.

Prayer Time
Beloved God, we gather in the shelter of your love, grateful for the time of worship with you. We come before you as your people, knowing of your grace and your mercy for us. We are grateful for the blessings you bestow upon us, for the gifts you send our way, for the love you have for us.
Hear our prayers now as we lift them up to you. We pray for the state of your world, that your creation would benefit from our good stewardship, and that peace would envelop our hearts and the hearts of all, as we seek out your will for our lives, our nation and the world. We pray for the leaders of governments, for those in positions of power at all levels, and for the needs of people to be met with the essentials of living fully.
We pray for those who are near to us, those we hold dear who may be suffering from loss, from illness, dealing with recovery, stress and worry. We call out to you the names on our hearts and minds…
Now Lord, clear our minds, soothe our troubled hearts that we might treasure this opportunity to be in your presence to worship you. Nourish us with your love that we might seek after the example of your son. Hear our prayer as we pray the prayer he gave to us 

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Offering Time 
Thank you God for your abundant love and your nourishing grace. Thank you for the gifts we return to you now. Bless the gifts that they may become for others signs of your love and vessels of your grace. Amen

If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory    “Reflections on ‘The Valley of Peace’”    (Whitworth)    Lynn McGinnis

Scripture        Exodus 20:1–11

Message              “Let’s Start at the Top”                      Pastor Nancy White

Closing Prayer
As partners with God, go to serve God’s world.
As friends of Christ, go to share Christ’s love.
Go with the blessing of God, the strength of Jesus Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit leading you.
    
Postlude    “Sanctuary"(Thompson/Scruggs; adapted by M. Miller)   Lynn McGinnis
                                                    
This Wednesday we will move finish the 10 Commandments discussion of their relevance for us today. It is held Facebook Live on the church page at 6:30 PM and available in video recording on Facebook or the church website following. We are on commandments 9 and 10.

Remember SOCKtober is going on now. Bring a pair or package of new socks to the church for donation to schools and agencies that help keep feet warm in the cold.

We are preparing Halloween treat bags for our young people. If you wish to donate candy, certificates, trinkets or other treats to the bags, please bring items to Pastor Nancy at church on/before October 18. We will be preparing 15 bags.

New contact information for Winona Sayre. She is presently in Ohio with her daughter and will be moving to an assisted living center there very soon. She would love to continue to hear from friends here at church.
Winona Sayre
c/o Mary Beth Ward
2860 Faye Drive
Zanesville OH 43701
740 319 1040

Upcoming:  For November, we would like to feature some special gratitude videos on facebook and the website. If you would like to participate, please record a video of you/your family expressing what they are thankful for even in this unsettling time of living. You may also take a photo of some thing/things/people you are thankful for and send those with an explanation that can be shared.

We are also working on some videos for Sundays to come. 
First up is the All Saints Day Worship, and we invite you to submit a photo of a loved one you wish to remember for this video. Please identify the person (s) with the photo.
Second is for Veteran's Day in November. Again, submit a photo of your veteran, living or deceased, with name and branch of the service.
We need these photos no later than October 27th. You may email them to revnancywhite@gmail.com or text them to her at 304 549 0496.

Sunday, October 4, 2020
18th Sunday After Pentecost
World Communion Sunday

Sunday, September 27, 2020
​17th Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude        “Everlasting Arms” (arr. Smith)        Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
Praise the Lord who is our provider
The Lord is our hope. Our trust is in God.
Glorious are the deeds of our God and mighty are His acts,
The Lord is our hope. Our trust is in God.

Let us Pray
O God, who is ever present, you hear our cries and are ever faithful in your mercy. We come to you with our concerns and to give you praise and thanksgiving this day.
We pray that hearts and minds of leaders at all levels of government, community and church would be filled with the spirit and mind of Christ, so that they would serve you and serve others in your name. Enable our leaders to serve for the sake of the people, and not just for themselves, that their decisions would lift up your ways and your people.
We pray for those who suffer with sickness, sadness, grief, anxiety and abuse. Envelop the with your love and help us to be their community of support and assistance. We call out to you the prayers of our hearts…
Loving God we know that you walk with us, and you answer when we call. 
We are thankful for your blessings, for your wondrous works and deeds on our behalf. We are grateful for the joy in our lives, for the beauty of creation and for your grace and mercy toward us. With gratitude and trust we pray to you the prayer Jesus offered to us

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Young People’s Message

Offering Time 
Yes, indeed, the works of the Lord are wondrous. We have the opportunity to be part of the work of the kingdom as people of faith and part of a fellowship that is called to serve with God. Let us offer back to God a portion of all the God has given to us, for the glory of God’s name.
O God, use the gifts of your people here to do your will in the world and to prepare each of us and all of your people for the coming kingdom. Amen

If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory        “I Do Believe”     (arr. Wilson)            Lynn McGinnis

Message                                             Pastor Nancy White
“I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints and his incomparably great power for us who believe.”
Ephesians 1: 18-19

Closing Prayer                                                                            Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen

Postlude        “Strength and Stay” (arr. Perry)        Lynn McGinnis


You are invited to join together for our Charge Conference, the yearly reporting/business time and devotional with our district superintendent, tomorrow, September 28, at 7 pm. It will be held via zoom conferencing so you can join with audio/video or just dial in for audio. The information needed has been emailed but you may check with Pastor Nancy if you need that sent again.

This Wednesday we will move further into the 10 Commandments and their relevance for us today. It is held Facebook live on the church page at 6:30 PM and available in video recording on Facebook or the church website following. We are on commandments 5 and 6.

Sunday, September 20, 2020
​16th Sunday After Pentecost

Invitation to Worship
               Whether we embrace God’s call in our lives or try to avoid it,
               God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
               ​Whether we are longtimers or latecomers in the life of faith,
               God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
               ​Whether our lives in Christ are comfortable or bring hardship,
               God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
               Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; God’s greatness is unreachable. Generations of believers will tell each other:
               God has done mighty things! Let us celebrate God.
Day of Hope Reflection
               Each year the WV Council of Churches presents this weekend as “Days of Hope”about encouraging prevention and recovery in regard to substance use disorder and addiction. With many activities being cancelled this year, one might rightly ask, “Why should I celebrate the Days of Hope in 2020?” Fortunately, there are many reasons for us to celebrate prevention and recovery this year. People are still finding their way to recovery and finding ways to maintain that recovery; treatment and recovery centers continue to offer help; and congregations and communities remain committed to sharing hope and support. In these times, for the people and families who have been affected by substance use disorder, the faith community has an especially important role to play in celebrating these victories.

The theme of the 2020 Days of Hope: A Celebration of Prevention and Recovery is “You Can Touch a Life.” Children in our state have been particularly affected by the opioid crisis, with the numbers of children in foster and kinship care rising exponentially over the past several years. These children have often experienced profound trauma and need our support. This support cannot wait until this virus pandemic abates, but is an ongoing endeavor. In 2020, you can touch the life of a foster, adoptive, or kinship child by supporting the families who care for them, aiding prevention efforts, celebrating those who are in recovery, and caring for those who are still on the journey.

Let us Pray:
Almighty and gracious God, we give You thanks for this day, for this gathering, and for this time of hope, which is found in Your love. Open our hearts this day, that we may hear with compassion the cries of all those who suffer, that we may comfort them. Open our minds, that we may see our sisters and brothers with the clear sight of truth, that we may minister to them with kindness and love, beyond the clouds of stigma and prejudice. Open our hands this day, that we may begin the work of healing this so wounded world. 
Let us pray for parents and all those caught in the web of addiction that they may find healing and wholeness. Lord, in your mercy…Hear our prayer.
Let us pray for children abandoned and feeling lost:
• That we may see our responsibility for them,
• That they may ever be surrounded by love,
• That their sadness turn to happiness,
• That seeds of hope be planted and grow in their hearts, and
That they may find home.
Lord, in your mercy…Hear our prayer.
Let us pray for foster and kinship parents, that they may be blessed with the resources to nurture the children in their care; find strength when weariness approaches; and that they be comforted in the knowledge that You are always with them in both joy and grief.
Lord, in your mercy…Hear our prayer.
Let us pray for adoptive parents as they begin their new journey, that they may have wisdom and insight, be surrounded by family and friends, and find opportunity for rest and renewal; until the time when their children launch forth into the world. Lord, in your mercy…Hear our prayer.
Loving God, may Your blessing be on us and all people that we might not shrink back from the ministry You have given us in this very troubled time, knowing that “those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” In Jesus Name. Amen.
Let us join in praying the prayer that our Savior invited us to pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Offering Time 
Great is God’s mercy toward us. Let us off back unto God what He has blessed us with in these days with humble gratitude. Lord, Giver of all gifts, thank you for the blessings. Use these gifts and all given to bring hope to the hurting, hope to hearts and hope to the world. Amen
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Message              “Irrepressible Hope”            Pastor Nancy White

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.” 2 Corinthians 4:9–10 

Closing Prayer, Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen

Sunday, September 13, 2020
15th Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude           “Peace with God” (Arr. Parker)          Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
         Give praise to God
         ​Praise the Lord, for it is God who saves…
         it is God who forgives…
         it is God who delivers…
         Give thanks and praise to the Lord.
Let us Pray:
For God so loved the world… Let us pray for the world God loves, saying God in your mercy, hear our prayer.
O God, your unfailing love has been the source of our strength. It has led us through troubled waters and away from our enemies. In your infinite love, you have had pity on us and heard our cries. Because of your faithful love and mercy, we bring our concerns to you, O God.
May we, the church, be an instrument of your love, forgiveness and grace.
May we, all of us, learn to live for each other, in peace and cooperation, here in the local community and in the global world. 
God in your mercy - HEAR OUR PRAYER.
For those who suffer today in their minds, bodies or souls, wrap your arms around them in love
For those that worry, those that give care to others, those that fear for their lives and their futures, show us the way to be present for them in their need. 
Hear these the we call to you in these moments
God in your mercy - HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We thank you for your unfailing blessings and love. We thank you for this day and we offer you our praise and glory. Lead and guide us in the ways of your son, Jesus in whose name we offer this prayer together:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Offering Time 
O God, we thank you for the gifts given to us. Multiply them and enable us to be of use to you for the kingdom you have intended. We praise you and thank you. Amen
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory           “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” (Arr. Page)          ​ Lynn McGinnis

Message        “There’s No Place Like…HOPE”           Pastor Nancy White

Psalm 25:4-5 (NIV) “Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior and my hope is in you all day long.”
Psalm 118:24 (NRSV) “This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Closing Prayer:  Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen

Local church families should have received a letter in the mail recently with exciting news. We will be holding in person worship in the sanctuary beginning next Sunday, September 20, at 11am, if all goes well this week. Please take a look at the guidelines shared in the letter or follow up on facebook for the information. The service will be the same service we are experiencing now and we will continue with the Parking Lots/Drive-In option as well as posting the videos to facebook and the church website. We encourage you to make your choice as it feels best to you and your family. Please consider your health and safety as well as that of others within the church and the community.

Trustee Committee will meet Monday, September 14, at 6:30 pm.

Church Council will meet Tuesday, September 15, at 6:30 pm. 

We plan to physically distance in the Friendship Room. Please wear a mask.

If you wish a copy of “Our Daily Bread” devotional, please let us know and we will mail it to you.

Sunday, September 6, 2020
14th Sunday After Pentecost

August 30, 2020
​13th Sunday After Pentecost

Sunday August 30, 2020     Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude      “Just a Closer Walk With Thee”    (arr. Denton)       Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship    
The God of our ancestors call us to worship
    Praise the Lord!
Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
​   Let us worship God!

Let us Pray:
Holy God, we come now to worship, into the sacred time, aware that you are always around us. We come, turning away from our daily tasks to listen for your holy voice. We pray Lord that you would surround us with your wondrous love, that you would embrace us with your arms of comfort and care, that you would beckon us to your side that you might walk with us in joy and in pain.
Hear now these prayers, both spoken and silent:
    for peace where there is conflict…
    for food where there is hunger…
    for hope where there is despair…
    for health where there is sickness…
    for faith where there is fear…
    for life where there is death…
    for the ones we call to you now…
Thank you God for your forgiveness, for your grace and mercy, for your gifts and blessings given to us. Thank you God for your Son Jesus Christ, in whose name we offer this prayer: 


Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Special Music 
              “Prayer of St. Francis and Let There Be Peace On Earth”
                            Robert Jackson and Lynn McGinnis


Offering Time 
Offering our gifts to God is a holy act. It is our opportunity to join in sharing God’s love and God’s holy work. 

In gratitude for your amazing works in the world, we offer our gifts to further your work, Lord. Guide our steps and bless the offerings we bring, that the world would be touched by your love with these gifts. Amen

If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory      “I Need Thee Every Hour”      (arr. Southbridge)      Lynn McGinnis

Scripture Reading     Romans 12: 9-21

Message        “Love from the Center”                           Pastor Nancy White
    
Closing Prayer
The blessing of God be with you. The love of Jesus fill you. The power of the Holy Spirit sustain you. Now and forever. Amen.


Announcements:
Finance Committee will meet Tuesday at 6:30 pm. We plan to physically distance in the Friendship Room. Please wear a mask.

Just a reminder: 
We invite you to remember the students that are a part of our Milton UMC church family as well as those who teach and lead in the education field. Pray for them all in this ‘new’ school year in its various formats. Consider sending a card/note as well. If you cannot locate addresses in the church directory, please contact the church.

College: Jessica Spoor (MU)
CMHS: Jenny Boggess, Hailey McCoy, Eva Reed
Milton Middle School: Levi Reed, Holly Watts
Hayes Middle School: Liam White
Elementary School: Brianna Browell, Samantha Browell, Laila Clarkson, Lane 
    Clarkson, Greyson Gillette, Zeta Lawson, Kat Petty, Tripp Petty
The Youngest: Brooks Clark, McKenzie Clark (who turned 1 this summer),     
    Samuel Hallam, Skylar Hallam (who turned 1 this summer)
Educators: Jennie Spoor, Roy White

(If we have missed someone, please forgive us and let us know so we might include them.)

Sunday, August 23, 2020
​12th Sunday After Pentecost

Prelude      “Jesus Loves Me”    (Arr. Paxton )          Lynn McGinnis
Invitation to Worship    
We, who are many, are transformed to become one in Christ.
           We, who are many, are called to worship God. 
Let us worship.


Let us Pray:
Ever-present God, who is at the side of every creature in creation, renew our lives so that we may discern and do your will, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
We thank you for hearing our prayers as we pray for one another, for family and friend, for those we know well and for those we will never know. Hear our prayers for those who worry, who hurt and who grieve. We call these names unto you now (you are invited to call the names you wish to pray for as the pastor shares names). Thank you Lord. 
We thank you for blessing us with your presence, with your love and care. We thank you for the gifts of joy and celebrations of life. Hear our praises lifted in gratitude unto you (you are invited to call out your celebrations and praise as the pastor shares as well). Thank you Lord.
Hear the prayers we lift in silence…
Accept and heed our prayers as we pray the prayer taught us by your son, Jesus Christ


Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.


A Back to School Moment
   Holy and living God, We come to you as a people in need and as a people of hope. We are about to enter into a school year unlike any we have ever seen. The challenges are great. We are feeling unsteady and unsure. We are all trying our best to do the right thing - even when the right thing is not at all as clear as we would like. We confess we are filled with anxiety, darn near overwhelmed with fear. Yes the challenges are great, O God. But your love is greater.
   We give thanks that in your great love, you have given us the gift of one another that we have so many chances this year to help and support, to lift each other up, that we have so many chances this year to keep one another safe by wearing masks by social distancing, by gathering with care. And we give thanks that in your great love, you have given us a spirit of courage and not timidity.
   Help us be bold in our teaching and our learning. Guide those of us in authority with a spirit of wisdom and compassion. Guide these students with a spirit of curiosity and a desire for growth.
   We ask you to empower us for such a time as this. Give us hope when we might falter. Give us strength when we feel weak. And give us a vision of a world transformed into one of love and justice because of what we have learned this year. In your holy name, we pray. Amen.


Offering Time 
The vision God has had for creation moves beyond the Church through the One who draws the world together in love, Jesus Christ. We all belong to one another and depend upon one another. May our gifts, resources and efforts be used for the saving of the world.  
O God, maker of heaven and earth, you are our help in the midst of need and danger. Bless our gifts the they may find their way to those who feel hopeless and without resource. May our gifts be a sign of your hope and love. Amen.
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 


Offertory       “The Lord is My Shepherd”       (Arr. Peterson)        Lynn McGinnis

Scripture Reading            Matthew 16: 13-20

Message               “ANSWER PLEASE ”                          Pastor Nancy White

The Apostles Creed
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;
    the third day he rose from the dead;
    he ascended into heaven,
        and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;
    from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
    the holy catholic church,
    the communion of saints,
    the forgiveness of sins,
    the resurrection of the body,
    and the life everlasting. Amen 


Closing Prayer
May the Lord who made heaven and earth, the Christ who lived and died for all, and the Spirit who renews our minds and hearts abide with you and all God’s people, now and forever.
           Back to School Moment:
We invite you to remember the students that are a part of our Milton UMC church family as well as those who teach and lead in the education field. Pray for them all in this ‘new’ school year in its various formats. Consider sending a card/note as well. If you cannot locate addresses in the church directory, please contact the church.
College:  Jessica Spoor (MU)
CMHS:  Jenny Boggess, Hailey McCoy, Eva Reed
Milton Middle School:  Levi Reed, Holly Watts
Hayes Middle School:  Liam White
Elementary School:  Brianna Browell, Samantha Browell, Laila Clarkson, Lane 
    Clarkson, Greyson Gillette, Zeta Lawson, Kat Petty, Tripp Petty
The Youngest:  Brooks Clark, McKenzie Clark (who turned 1 this summer),     
    Samuel Hallam, Skylar Hallam (who turned 1 this summer)
Educators:  Jennie Spoor, Roy White
(If we have missed someone, please forgive us and let us know so we might include them.  

Sunday, August 16, 2020
​11th Sunday After Pentecost

**If you wish to be outside of your vehicles by bringing a chair, you may do so while still practicing physical distance and wearing a mask for the safety of others and their concerns. However, at this time the service is via 101.3 FM and you still need that to share in the service.
**For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors. 
**To participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk. 
  
Prelude      “Beneath Thy Wings O’ershading”    (Arr. Thompson )       Lynn McGinnis
​
Invitation to Worship    
         God has forgiven us and drawn us close, reconciling us through Jesus Christ.
         With glad and grateful hearts, let us praise the Lord!
​Let us Pray:
God of mercy and healing, you are Lord of all. Your blessings know no boundaries. You strengthen us and receive us unto yourself.  We pray to you now confident in your care, trusting in your ways, thankful for everything we receive.

We pray for your people everywhere and ask your guidance upon us that we might be about your kingdom business in our daily living. We pray for your harmony to flow upon all people and throughout creation. Bring your reconciliation to the hearts of those who are estranged from one another, to nations in turmoil.  Lord we trust in your ways.
May your presence bring comfort and peace and your healing miracles to bodies, minds and souls. We call these names unto you now (you are invited to call the names you wish to pray for as the pastor shares names). Lord we trust in your care.
As we stand in the circled arms of your love, we are thankful for your blessed gifts unto us (you are invited to call out your celebrations and praise as the pastor shares as well). Lord we trust in your blessings.
Thank you God for your favor. Thank you Jesus for your mercy. Thank you Spirit of God for your presence. Let us now share together the prayer of the disciples:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Special Music          “Great is Thy Faithfulness/I Know Whom I Have Believed.”
                                   Robert Jackson/Lynn McGinnis

Offering Time 
Christ has provided for us from the abundant table of blessings. As we offer these gifts unto God, may they be shared out of gratitude and received so that the blessings will abound and multiply embracing all those in need.

If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory              “No, Not One”       (Arr. Southbridge)                    Lynn McGinnis

Scripture Reading        Romans:11:1-2a, 29-32

Message               “Because. . .GOD”    Pastor Nancy White
    
Closing Prayer
May the God who forgives, reconciles, heals and blesses, be with you today and forevermore. Amen

Sunday, August 9, 2020
​10th Sunday After Pentecost

**If you wish to be outside of your vehicles by bringing a chair, you may do so while still practicing physical distance and wearing a mask for the safety of others and their concerns. However, at this time the service is via 101.3 FM and you still need that to share in the service.
**For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors. 
**To participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.

Prelude    “How Great Thou Art/How Great is Our God”      (Arr. Page)        Lynn McGinnis
Invitation to Worship    
God lifts us from death to life and preserves us for God’s purposes through the compassion of Jesus Christ our Lord and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. 
          With thanksgiving, let us praise the Lord.
Let us Pray:
God you have clothed us in your love and grace.  We are confident in your blessings and your presence. You are with us in our deepest pain, fear and bewilderment. You hear our cries and lift us from the depths as we walk over the troubled waters of life.
We come to you now Lord on behalf of the family of God, praying for your church as we all seek to fulfill your mission in the world, to show mercy and proclaim Your Good News.
We come to you now Lord praying for peace and order in your creation, lifting up leaders of the world, at all levels of leadership. Praying also for all of your people to have the essentials of life and to know less fear and distress.
We come to you now Lord on behalf of those who are beaten down with worry and cares, those who are wondering about the next year, the next day, the next step. We pray for the special needs of those that we know, that we care about, that we love, remembering before you these name (you are invited to call aloud or from your heart the concerns you wish named as the pastor names those she has been made aware of)
We come to you now Lord on half of ourselves to ask for your courage and guidance, to give you praise and honor in our thanksgiving (you are invited to call aloud or from your heart the celebrations you wish to name as the pastor names those she has been made aware of)
Clothe us with your favor and love once again Lord. Inspire us with your dreams. Hold us steady when we falter in the storms, just as you did for your son, Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray together:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.
A Word to the Young People
Offering Time 
We give thanks to you, O Lord for your sustaining presence and abundant grace. Receive now these gifts, returned to you. May they be used to satisfy the hungry, relieve the oppressed and proclaim everywhere, the good news of Jesus Christ. Amen
If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 
Offertory       “Just As I Am”       (Arr.  Paxton)                               Lynn McGinnis
Scripture Reading: Matthew 14: 22–33
Message               “JESUS IS NEAR”                           Pastor Nancy White

Closing Prayer
May the steadfast love and faithfulness of God surround you;
The peace of Christ enfold you;
And the Holy Spirit encourage you, now and forever. Amen

Evening Devotion Sunday, August 9
We had a small group, but we enjoyed our time together in sight of one another and physically distanced under the shade of the tree.
​As John Skidmore said ‘whoever planted that tree there was a genius.’

Sunday, August 2, 2020
​Ninth Sunday After Pentecost

**If you wish to be outside of your vehicles by bringing a chair, you may do so while still practicing physical distance and wearing a mask for the safety of others and their concerns. However, at this time the service is via 101.3FM and you still need that to share in the service.
**For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors. 
**To participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.

Prelude           God Will Take Care of You            Martha Deel
​ 
Invitation to Worship    
God meets us in our greatest need and satisfies us with Divine presence and provision.
    In gratitude, let us worship the Lord our God.
​              Let us pray: 
God, you are a life-changer. You have touched us and transformed us into new creatures. You have satisfied our needs and held us close in our time of need. We pray that you would continue to hear us, hold us and help us as you are the source of all blessings. 
Give ear to our praises unto you for your faithfulness, your healing, the joy found in living with you in our lives. We have much to give thanks for (you are invited to make known the joys and celebrations you give praise for this day as the pastor shares praises also).
Give ear to our prayers as we cry out for our sisters and brothers, and for ourselves. Bring healing. Bring peace. Bring provision and compassion, Lord. We pray for (you are invited to name those you wish to pray for in this time as the pastor shares names she has been made aware of in time of need).
Give ear to our prayers that all leaders might seek your wisdom, that those who are hungry, ill, vulnerable and in need of refuge from the concerns of life might find their needs met, and that all of creation would return unto you. 
We pray that you would keep our feet on your pathways and bless us so that we might be a blessing unto others. It is in the name of your son Jesus Christ that we pray as we join our hearts in the Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

A Word to the Young People

Offering Time 
In the faithful hands of Jesus Christ, our little is multiplied into much. Thank you for these gifts provided unto us. Come now, Lord and take our offering of loaves and fishes and bless them to the service of our God.

If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory                  Precious Lord, Take My Hand               Martha Deel

Scripture Reading: Matthew 14:13–21

Message                     You Give Them Something                      Pastor Nancy White
    
Closing Prayer

Christ holds you in the palm of his hands.
Christ has touched you, changed you, called you and blessed you.
May the grace of Christ be multiplied to you and through you, now and forever. AMEN

Sunday, July 26, 2020
​Eighth Sunday After Pentecost

**If you wish to be outside of your vehicles by bringing a chair, you may do so while still practicing physical distance and wearing a mask for the safety of others and their concerns. However, at this time the service is via 101.3FM and you still need that to share in the service.
**For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors. 
**To participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.
        
Prelude      “In the Garden”    (arr. Wilson)            Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship    
No matter what happened yesterday,
    now is the time to call upon God,
to lay our lives before our Creator and to proclaim God’s wonderful deeds.
    Now is the time to worship.    
 
Let us pray: 
    Loving God, you search our hearts to see the good, the challenges and the obstacles. Forgive us when we do not act as your faithful followers. Remind us that nothing can separate us from your love and lead us toward your ways.
    We come to praise your name and to be reassured of your unending grace…(you are invited to name your prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude as the pastor names those she is aware of also.) 
    Holy One, we come before you with sighs too deep for words. We come with hearts overwhelmed - by the world, by personal relationships, by inward struggles. 
    We call out to you now, sharing our worries and concerns from our hearts…(you are invited to name your prayers of concern and intercession as the pastor names those she is aware of also.)
    In this time and place, open our hearts to your presence. Open our ears to hear your word. Open our hands to serve you and the world. May our lives reflect Christ, who walks with us and gives us life. It is in his name we pray as we join our hearts in the prayer of our Lord:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

A Word to the Young People
Offering Time 
Christ reminds us that our treasures, our gifts from God, are most beneficial when they are used for the kingdom of God. May this be a time when we remember and give thanks for God’s blessings. 
Hear this prayer: Almighty God, the gifts, great and small, are offered back to you to bless and multiply so that others may come to know you and love you as we do. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

If you wish to support Milton United Methodist Church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory         “Fill Me Now”    (arr. Smith)        Lynn McGinnis

Scripture Reading:  Romans 8:26–39

Message    “Rejoice in These Times Too”    Pastor Nancy White
    
Closing Prayer
Go forth knowing you are part of God’s family.
Go forth proclaiming the praises of God.
Go forth in the assurance that Christ is always with you.
Go forth to bring the kingdom of God wherever you are.

Note for Worship Next Sunday, August 2, 2020

The West Virginia Annual Conference business session will be held virtually next Saturday, August 1, to handle limited, necessary items for the work of the WVUMC. 
For next Sunday, every congregation is invited to join in a livestream worship service provided by our Bishop and conference leadership.  At 10am, you may tune into the livestream feed through the website https://www.wvumc.org/2020ac/, where not only will you hear a message, but ‘participate’ in an infant baptism and the ordination of an elder and a deacon into full ministry. 

Pastor Nancy will be offering a service here at MUMC as we have been doing via 101.3 FM in the parking lot and nearby area as well as posted on facebook and the website. But perhaps you would like the opportunity to share in the wider service option for that Sunday.

Sunday, July 19, 2020

Order of Worship for July 12, 2020
Sixth Sunday After Pentecost

**If you wish to be outside of your vehicles by bringing a chair, you may do so while still practicing physical distance and wearing a mask for the safety of others and their concerns. However, at this time the service is via 101.3FM and you still need that to share in the service.
**For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors. 
**To participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.

Invitation to Worship            (Cynthia A. Wilson, 2020)
Life-Giving God, you have called us to the fountain of new life, new vision, new hope, new fellowship with you and with one another.
         We come rejoicing! You kept your promise.
Faithful God, you promised never to leave or forsake us.
         We come in victory! You kept your promise.
All-Powerful, Sustaining God, you promised to set us free from the law of sin and death.
          We come with hearts of thanksgiving and our minds are stayed on you because you kept your promise. Hallelujah! 
   
Let us pray: 
Almighty and everlasting God, in whom we live and move and have our being, You created us for Yourself, so the our hearts are restless until they end rest in You. Grant to us such a heat and strength of purpose that no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing Your will, and no weakness from doing it. In Your light may we see life clearly and in Your service we will find perfect freedom.
Hear our heartfelt thanksgiving this day for the blessings of our lives. We are grateful that you present us with such joy that fills our hearts with laughter and smiles. We are thankful for the people who surround us as family and friends, for the gifts that provide for our physical bodies and for our spiritual and emotional souls as we call out our thanks to you now (we will pause for you to voice aloud or in silent prayer your celebrations and thanksgivings.)
Hear too our heartfelt prayers of intercession for others. We pray for those that need healing upon their bodies and for those that love and care for each. We pray for those that lead and serve and for those that worry and live in fear. We call out to you now our prayers (Pastor will name any names she has been given and you are invited to call out aloud of from your hearts other names as well.)


We pray this day in the name of your son Jesus Christ as we pray the pray he shared with us all.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. AMEN.

A Word to the Young People

Offering Time 
God of the universe, we worship this morning, longing to set our minds on the Holy Spirit, to live with Christ within us. We have not always made room for Christ in the clutter of our lives. We have indulged our wants so often that too often the voice of the Spirit is drowned out. As we dedicate the gifts this morning, may it help us to live more in tune with the Spirit and to use our resources in a way that reflects that Christ is Lord of all our lives. In his holy name, we pray. AMEN. 

If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Scripture Reading:  Romans 8:1-11

Message    “Set Your Mind”    Pastor Nancy White   
Closing Prayer
May God, whose forgiveness is boundless,
The Christ, whose charge is freedom,
The Spirit, which grants us life and peace,
Keep our minds set in grateful communion and service.  AMEN.


A Word for next week’s service:  Pastor Nancy will be taking some time off this coming week. Next Sunday there will be a message posted on Sunday morning via Facebook and the church website, but there will be NO parking lot worship that morning. We invite you to watch the video at your convenience and worship from home or wherever you may be next Sunday.

Remember:  NO parking lot worship next week.

Sunday, July 5, 2020
Fifth Sunday After Pentecost

**If you wish to be outside of your vehicles by bringing a chair, you may do so while still practicing physical distance and wearing a mask for the safety of others and their concerns. However, at this time the service is via 101.3FM and you still need that to share in the service.
**For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors. 
**To participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.
Prelude         “In God We Trust”   (arr. Peterson)    Lynn McGinnis
Invitation to Worship
Once we were no people, but now we are God’s people, called out of the darkness into God’s marvelous light. 
    Therefore we sing with the Church in all ages: Blessed be your name, O God, our Redeemer.
Let us pray: 
Almighty God, inspire the minds of all women and men to whom you have committed the responsibility of government and leadership in the nations of the world and particularly this nation as we remember our independence. Give a vision of truth and justice and let them seek your counsel. We pray that our freedom might be used for justice and our liberty for your gracious will. Forgive us our shortcomings and purify our hearts to love the truth.
We pray this day giving thanks for blessings: for family and friends, for laughter and joy, for having what we need and mostly what we want as well. We are grateful for your care, your grace and your love.
We pray this day for others as well, lifting up the names of those we care about who have specific needs and concerns (Pastor will name any names she has been given and you are invited to call out aloud of from your hearts other names as well.)
We pray this day for ourselves also, give us your mindfulness and your compassion. Gift us with your Spirit in all we say and do and the strength to move with you God. 
We pray this day in the name of your son Jesus Christ and we pray the pray he shared with us all.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Offering Time 
God of wisdom and all good gifts: We bring our tithes and offerings to your altar, remembering that you have blessed us to be a blessing to others. Remind us this morning that the gift of freedom that comes through Christ is also a gift not to be kept but to be shared. You made us free to be part of Christ’s body in the world, connected and interdependent. May the way we live and the way we give reflect that kind of freedom. In Christ’s blessed name, we pray. Amen.
If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 
Offertory Music        “A Liberty Medley” (arr. Berlin, et al)    Lynn McGinnis
Scripture Reading:  Galatians 5:1, 13-26
​Message        Pastor Nancy White

Closing Prayer
God of freedom and love, you have called us to live in freedom – freedom from the tyranny of sin and for lives of love to God and neighbor. May our lives radiate the fruit of the Spirit — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control —in all we do and say. Amen.

Sunday, June 28, 2020

Order of Worship for June 28, 2020

Sunday, June 21, 2020
Father's Day & Third Sunday After Pentecost

Order of Worship for June 21, 2020

Happy Father's Day! We hope you enjoy this tribute to dads at MUMC.
It is quite fun to watch. Thanks to all who helped with it.
​(Kudos to Samuel, who made it into the most photos!)

Sunday, June 14, 2020

Order of Worship

Second Sunday After Pentecost, Ordinary Time

**If you wish to be outside of your vehicles by bringing a chair, you may do so while still practicing physical distance and wearing a mask for the safety of others and their concerns. However, at this time the service is via 101.3FM and you still need that to share in the service.
**For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors. 
**To participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.

Prelude     To God Be the Glory   (arr. Birchwood)        Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
Jesus summons us to answer God’s call of mercy.
Christ gathers us and gives us power
    to be healed and to heal,
    to be forgiven and to forgive,
    to be freed from sin and to set others free,
    to tell one another and the world:
God’s presence is at hand. Let us worship God.

Let us pray:
The mystery of God brings the promise of life, but we doubt the Spirit’s power to overcome death. The resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son, reveals that nothing is impossible with God. The God who has revealed His fullness in the Trinity, fills us with hope. We pray as faithful ones to be filled with the Spirit that we might be empowered to share the good news of Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray the Lord’s prayer…

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Special Music                  Robert Jackson and Lynn McGinnis
        
Offering Time 
Just as Jesus gathered disciples and gave them authority to proclaim the good news and reach into their world with the power of the Spirit, Jesus calls us. We present these offerings for blessing that they might be used for the mission of the church and the kingdom of God. Thank you for coming near to us, Lord. Thank you for blessing us.
Praise and thank to you.  AMEN.
If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory Music             Celebrate Love (arr. Hanson)            Lynn McGinnis

​Scripture Reading:             Matthew 9:35–10:4
    
Message           See All The People       Pastor Nancy White
    We will continue to build on this theme in the coming weeks with messages on “Hear All the People,” and “Love All the People.”

Closing Blessing 
Go now in peace, but be prepared to look and see.
Go now in hope, and be ready for opportunity. 
Go now in love, for the one who loves us goes with us.  AMEN.

Sunday,  June 7, 2020

Order of Worship

Sunday June 7, 2020 Trinity Sunday and Peace With Justice Sunday
(For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors.) 
If you wish to participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.

Prelude        Holy, Holy, Holy  (arr. Livingston, Jr.)        Lynn McGinnis

Invitation to Worship
“Then God said, ‘Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness.’…and God saw everything that God had made, and, indeed, it was very good.”
For the ‘many-ness’ of God’s creative splendor, let us give thanks.
Before Jesus’ humility, and the power of Christ’s commands, let us stand in wonder
For the mystery of God’s presence with us in the Holy Spirit, let us seek after God.
Come! Let us worship God the father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit.
​

Let us pray:
You are One, O God, and you are Three. Make us ever in your image, we pray. Make us one. Make us “we.” Remind us of the “we” in your creation, baptism and community with one another. Comfort and empower us as we gather in the name of your son, and we pray together the prayer of our Lord Jesus Christ:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever.  Amen.

Special Music                                                         Robert Jackson and Lynn McGinnis
    Medley:  This is My Father’s World, For the Beauty of the Earth, 
                    Here I Am, Lord,  and Victory in Jesus

Offering Time 
For all that God has given us, we are thankful. For day and night, evening and morning, for the whole of creation and for all of God’s beloved children, we are thankful. God, we pray for your Holy Spirit to abide with us and work with us and these gifts that all people may have joy, peace and justice. Amen

If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 

Offertory Music           Sent Out In Jesus’ Name  (arr. Pena)           Lynn McGinnis

Scripture Reading: Matthew 28: 16-20

Message                                “Go, Therefore”                           Pastor Nancy White
    We will continue to build on this theme in the coming weeks with messages on
        “See All the People,” “Hear All the People,” and “Love All the People.”

Closing Blessing 
The eternal Creator calls us.
The risen Savior sends us.
The dynamic Spirit empowers us.
Go, therefore, into all the world, making disciples of Jesus Christ. 
Go in peace.  AMEN

Sunday, May 31, 2020, Pentecost Sunday

​(For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors.) 
If you wish to participate/follow the service, the order is available online at the church website or Facebook. A limited number of copies of the worship order are located with the ‘offering box’ at the parking lot sidewalk.

Prelude:         Lynn McGinnis

Call to Worship
Call upon God’s holy name,
    for in calling, we are saved.
Listen for the wind of the Spirit,
    for in listening, we find new life.
Respond to the promises of Christ,
    for in responding, we bring hope to the world.
Let us pray
Spirit of Pentecost, blow open the doors of our hearts. Set our tongues to proclaiming praises to God. Bless us with Your visions and dreams to move and be who You call us to be. Give us the courage and faith to live our lives with renewed faith in the Holy One of us all. 

May we pray together the prayer of our Lord Jesus Christ:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Special Music-A medley of favorites to sing along with Robert Jackson and Lynn McGinnis

Offering Time 
Offertory Music:     Lynn McGinnis

We serve a God of blessings. Let us share from the bountiful gifts of God so that God’s church may continue to serve our neighbors and work toward sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world. We thank you God for your abundant gifts to us all. Amen.
If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. If you wish to make a gift today, there is an offering box located at the parking lot entrance sidewalk. 
Today we also encourage you to drop any loose change in the buckets in that area for our last Sunday of the month ‘noisy offering’ for missions.

Scripture Reading: Acts 2:1-21
 The Word of God, for the people of God.
          THANKS BE TO GOD.

Message:    Pastor Nancy White 

A Litany for an Unfinished Church    by Tanya Linn Bennett, 2010, based on 1968 reflections of Dr Albert C. Outler, at the joining of the United Brethren and Methodist Church into the United Methodist Church)
Many years ago, the people gathered and were ignited by passion for God, lit up by Pentecost fire, shouting out in Pentecost voices, carried away on Pentecost winds. So many years later, we gather. We have learned new words, and written books of rules. We have heard the stories of our past. We come to create stories for the future.
WE ARE AN UNFINISHED CHURCH.
Like those disciples so many years ago, we are not sure we know the way. We are afraid to make mistakes. We are afraid to fail.
WE ARE AN UNFINISHED CHURCH.
But, Christ calls us to carry on the blessing of discipleship, to move forward in love and faithfulness, so that all might find a place in our holy space, our church.
WE ARE AN UNFINISHED CHURCH.
So long as even one of us is left outside the door because of our cold heartedness, 
WE ARE AN UNFINISHED CHURCH.
So long as any one is lonely, hungry, sick, in prison, naked,
WE ARE AN UNFINISHED CHURCH.
So long as any one of us is destitute of the great Hope that is our future in Christ Jesus, raised up to set us free from death into holy and everlasting life,
WE ARE AN UNFINISHED CHURCH.
Every day is a new Pentecost, full of the promise and possibility that God offers.
TODAY IS A DAY OF DREAMING, A PENTECOST DAY FILLED WITH REFINING FIRE, AND HOLY SMOKE, AND WINDS OF CHANGE, AND VOICES FULL OF PASSION FOR GOD AND FOR EACH OTHER.
We are an unfinished church, but we are God’s church.
WE ARE GOD’S CHURCH, FULL OF GRACE AND LOVE AND HOPE. TODAY IS A NEW PENTECOST DAY, MAY WE BE BIRTHED AGAIN INTO NEW BEGINNING.

Closing Blessing 
May we go out, honoring the Christ in each other, loving the Christ in each other, lifting up the Christ in each other. May we go in peace, One Body, now and forever. Amen.

Sunday May 24, 2020 Ascension Sunday

Order of Worship

​(For those in their vehicles, remember that flashing your lights is an acceptable response for ‘Amen’ and sharing your joy in the service. We will refrain from horn blowing out of courtesy for our neighbors.)

Prelude     He Leadeth Me, O Blessed Thought (arr. Lewis)      Lynn McGinnis

Call to Worship
Clap your hands, all you people!        (Flash your Lights, all you people!)
    Shout joyfully to God with a joyous shout!    (Share joyfully in your vehicle)
Clap your hands, all you people!
    The Lord has ascended.
Clap your hands, all you people!
    For we have ascended.
Clap your hands, all you people!
    We have ascended through the transformative power of God. We are to be witnesses of Your power. It is with joy that we live a life that bears witness to Your love for all of Your people. We clap our hands and give You praise for You have given us unspeakable joy!

Let us pray this Prayer of Repentance: 
Our risen Lord, we confess that we have not used Your transformative power to be witnesses of the faith. We admit that we have allowed ourselves to be guided by other entities and calls for our attention, thus opening the doors to injustices, oppression and fear. Flood our hearts with Your Spirit and may we be the body of Christ in the fullness of Christ, who fills everything in every way. AMEN.

Response Today:    The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. AMEN.

Special Music:      A medley of favorites to sing along 
                         with Robert Jackson and Lynn McGinnis

Message to the Young People 

Offering Time 
Offertory Music:     Just a Closer Walk with Thee (arr. Denton)    Lynn McGinnis

If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. Today as you exit the parking lot, you may present any gift in the offering receptacle near the Smith Street exit.

Hear this prayer over the gifts and services:
O God of all glory and majesty, we give you thanks for the gift of your Son, and his power at work in our lives and our gifts. Bless the gifts given to you to the benefit of bringing life to others and bless our lives that we may be your witnesses as we love and serve you, O God most high. AMEN.

Scripture Reading:    Luke 24:44-53
Message:    Pastor Nancy White 

Closing Blessing
May the glory of God fill you with praise,
the beauty of Christ strengthen you in service,
and the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with peace.  AMEN.

Sunday, May 17, 2020

Prelude:                “Blessed Assurance” (arr. DeCou)     Lynn McGinnis

Call to Worship:   Pastor Nancy
God made the world and everyone in it.
    Our life and breath come from God.
God made all nations under heaven and we are God’s.
    When we search for God, we find God nearby.

Let us pray:
Sometimes, God, you are such a mystery to us that we don’t really know what to expect. We don’t expect you to be so near and to hear our prayers when you are so big and glorious. But we are so thankful God, that you do care about each one, that you do make your presence known to us and that we can come to you with our worries, our grief and our needs. 
This day God we offer our thanksgiving unto you for blessing us with this day and for taking care that we have joys and celebrations to name before others and before you…
Hear our praises lifted unto you.
This day God we offer to you our prayers for those that are ill, for those that are facing the loss of a loved one, for those that aren’t sure what comes next and have hard decisions to make…
This day we offer to you our concerns for our friends…and our neighbors…for our family members…for ourselves…
This day we offer to you the needs of our nation and world…our leaders…
O God, make your presence known to us and receive our prayers and our praise this day as we bow before you and pray the prayer given to the disciples by your Son,

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. AMEN.

Scripture Reading:    Acts 17: 22-31

Offering Time
As we are assured that God is present with us in all things, we are offered the opportunity to offer back unto God what God has blessed us with. We are given the opportunity to be a blessing to others; to those that seek after God and those who doubt, to those that have real needs in our community and the world. God continues to bless us and continues to be present for us. May our lives be an acceptable offering in union with our risen Lord. 
If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. You may also wish to support a church closer to wherever you are and we encourage that as well. 
In our efforts to support the ministry of ECCHO, which serves to help those in Eastern Cabell County with needs of food and other services. We are hosting a “drive through/drop off” for food collection on Memorial Day Weekend. You will find details shortly on our facebook page. As we move into summer, there is a need to provide for families through ECCHO and with our own Blessing Box. We are thankful that through our faithful giving, we are able to support agencies within the UM connection as well, so the needs in communities around WV and also in the mission fields of the world may continue. Thank you for your giving which allows us to reach out and service in the name of Jesus Christ.

As we close this portion of our worship, we invite you to continue to worship with us each week here on Facebook and our Website and then when we are able to worship in person, please consider joining with us if you are able. We anticipate beginning to meet together for summer with a service offered outside and in the parking area. The exact plan is being developed and we will still practice safe cautions and social distancing but look forward to being ‘together’ even in a limited way to worship.

This week you can join us at 1:00 pm Tuesday for Prayer and Devotion on ZOOM and at 1:00 pm Wednesday for a Facebook Live sharing of the “One Hit Wonder: 3 John”

Offertory Music:        “Close To Thee” (arr. Moore)    Lynn McGinnis

Message to the Young People:     “The Thimble Game”

Message:              “Hidden in Plain Sight”        Pastor Nancy White

Blessing:
May God, who creates, redeems and sustains, keep you steadfast in faith, filled with hope and abounding in love. And the blessing of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit be among you and remain with you always. AMEN.

Sunday, May 10, 2020

Prelude by Lynn McGinnis     When There’s Love at Home   Arr. Wilson

Call to Worship
God is our rock, the foundation of our spiritual home.
    We are the living stones, used to build God’s house.
God’s house is not made of brick and stone 
    but of those nourished by God’s Word.
We are God’s own people and precious in God’s sight.
    There is room for everyone in God’s house.

This week is Christian Home Week and today we celebrate Mother’s Day. As we gather wherever we are to pray to our God, our guide and guardian, we are remembering those who have nurtured us, protected us and helped us grow. We give thanks for the people with whom we find acceptance and affirmation. We are grateful for the homes that offer us a strong foundation and shelter us with healing love. ​

Let us pray:
Holy God you are our fortress and our rock, you have made us one family and one people, precious in your sight. We give you thanks for the rain and the sun, for the food and water of the earth. 
We praise you for family, especially for moms, and those who mother us in life and faith. We call out their names now… 
We are thankful for family and friends, neighbors and community where we find hospitality and welcome.
We pray this day for all of those named on our hearts with their concerns for safety, healing, stress and worry…
We pray for those who work and serve and for those that grieve…
We offer to you prayers for ourselves…
May we find Your peace and may we continue to seek after Your ways as led by the example of Your Son Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray: 

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. AMEN.

Special Video Presentation:
Today we have a special video for you in honor of Mother’s Day. May it bring a little smile to your face and perhaps there are some surprises inside for some of you.  Thank you to everyone who was able to help with this presentation.​

Offering Time
Our God continues to bless us and continues to be present for us. May our lives be an acceptable offering in union with our risen Lord. 
If you wish to support this church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541. You may also wish to support a church closer to wherever you are and we encourage that as well. 
We at Milton United Methodist Church continue to support the ministry of ECCHO, which serves to help those in Eastern Cabell County with needs of food and other services. We also continue to support UMCOR, which is the United Methodist Committee On Relief, ready to move and serve in times of need around the world and right here close to home. Thank you for your giving which allows us to reach out and service in the name of Jesus Christ.

As we close this portion of our worship, we invite you to continue to worship with us each week here on Facebook and our Website; and then, when we are able to worship in person, please consider joining with us if you are able.
We hope to share our plans for the summer in the next week. 
This week you can join us at 1:00 pm Tuesdays for Prayer and Devotion on ZOOM and at 1:00 pm Wednesday for a Facebook Live sharing of the “One Hit Wonder: 2 John.”

Offertory Music by Lynn McGinnis        Pastorale for Mother’s Day     Composed by Roesch

Video 2:  Message with the Rev. Dr. Okey Harless, District Superintendent, Western District of the WV UM Annual Conference. ​

Blessing
May Jesus Christ, the way, the truth and the life, be with you.
May the Spirit empower you to serve in Christ’s name.
May God, who raised Christ from the dead, keep you forevermore. 
Alleluia! AMEN!

Sunday, May 3, 2020

​

Prelude:            Lynn McGinnis 

Call to Worship:           Pastor Nancy White

Let us worship with glad and generous hearts
    for many signs and wonders are being done for us.
Let us devote ourselves to prayer and worship
    for in this way God will be glorified.

The early disciples devoted themselves to prayer, the teachings of the apostles, and sharing the bread of life. They were a people of prayer, who shared their joys and concerns, their passions and sorrows, with one another and with the Lord. For burdens shared are burdens lessened, and joys shared are joys enriched. Come let us follow their example and lift our prayers to God: 

We pray for the whole church that we may be devoted to your Word and generous to all who have need.
We pray for the earth, for green pastures and still waters that we may restore them to goodness and purity as God created them.
We pray for the people of the world, nations and leaders, that God’s wisdom and peace may govern all and no one will live in fear.
We pray for all of those in need, those who are ill, those who are grieving loss, those that need the comforting presence of the Spirit as we name them aloud and in our hearts…
We pray for ourselves, our families and those whom we love that the goodness and mercy of God would lead us down right paths and restore our souls.
We pray to You, Blessed Shepherd in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who taught us to pray

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever.  AMEN.

Message to the young people 

Offertory Music:                   Lynn McGinnis
Our God continues to bless us…continues to be present for us…and we are called to honor Him by offering back unto Him from the blessings given to us. If you wish to support the church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541

As we close this portion of our worship, we invite you, when we are able to be in worship together in person, to consider joining with us if you are able and in the area.

Video 2:  Message and Scripture Time with Pastor Nancy

Scripture will be Acts 2: 42-47

Message:   “Live the Five Words”

Blessing:
So devote yourself also to the teachings of the gospel, to your prayers and Christian fellowship that we might all be led to a glad and generous heart; and may the God who calls us by name be with us all

Sunday, April 26, 2020

Call to Worship
Followers of Jesus, 
by His cross we are redeemed from the futility of sin.
    Alleluia!
By His rising we are free from the fear of death.
    Alleluia!
By His love we are made new in the living and enduring Word of God.
    Alleluia! Thanks be to God!

Let us unite our hearts in prayer saying God of resurrection, HEAR OUR PRAYER

For the church throughout the world, that as we celebrate the great fifty days of Easter, we may renew our faith and strengthen our witness in Jesus’ name.
God of the resurrection, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

For the governments of the world and its leaders, especially those of our nation, state and communities, that they may seek to serve the common good and find courage in tough times.
God of the resurrection, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

For those that need a place of refuge and hope, for those who are sick and in distress and those that care for others, that your healing might touch them and they would feel your strength to be restored and renewed each day.
God of the resurrection, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

For our neighbors…
For our family members…
For ourselves…
Even for those we may be estranged from…
May we live together in peace, share resources, and receive good things.
God of the resurrection, HEAR OUR PRAYERS,

We are grateful to you God for your blessings, for your love and care, and we know that you hear our prayers as we lift them up to you in the name of your Son, our risen savior, Jesus Christ who taught us to pray:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Offertory
God’s gifts to us are bountiful and we come with gratitude to offer ourselves, our hearts and our lives to God’s service. We are appreciative of the continued generosity shown to Milton United Methodist Church so that we might be of service to God. If you wish to support the church with your tithes and gifts, please mail them to 1007 Church Street, Milton WV 25541


As we close this portion of our worship, we offer a reminder of being “Easter People” with a video we hope you will enjoy of some of our MUMC family. We invite you when we are able to be in worship together in person to consider joining with us if you are able and in the area.

​Video 2:  Message to the young people (ages 1–99), Presented by Gwen Reed

Message and Scripture Time with Pastor Nancy


Scripture will be 1 Peter 1:18-23


Easter People


Blessing
Go in the joy of resurrection: 
Be obedient to the truth and genuine in love through the living and enduring Word of God.
And May the grace of Jesus Christ, our risen Lord, the love of God who raised him from the dead, and the power of the Holy Spirit bless and keep you. Alleluia.