Prepared by

Dr. Thomas S. Warren II

Revised 2024

Advent Christian General Conference

P.O. Box 690848

Charlotte, NC 28227

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This issue of the Minister’s Service Manual is an extension of a labor begun many years ago. In addition to the excellent work of Dr. Albert C. Johnson and later by Dr. Nelson B. Melvin, the current volume owes a great debt to several others. Dr. Thomas S. Warren II deserves particular recognition for the many hours he invested both in typesetting and revising the content. Rev. Mary Roller also devoted many hours to editing and improving the work. Additional contributions were made by the Advent Christian Pastor’s Associations of the Piedmont Conference and the Advent Christian Pastors’ Association of the Eastern North Carolina Conference, Coastal District.

Table of Contents

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

MARRIAGE

PRESENTATION OF CHILDREN

BAPTISM

RECEPTION OF NEW MEMBERS

SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR COMFORT IN TRIAL AND SICKNESS

FUNERALS

FUNERAL SCRIPTURE READINGS

ORDINATION

INSTALLATION

DEDICATION SERVICE

HOLY COMMUNION

PUBLIC WORSHIP

SELECTED POEMS

CHURCH AND CONFERENCE LETTERS

MARRIAGE

One of the pastor’s greatest joys is to help a Christian couple arrange their wedding and establish their home. Our Lord performed his first miracle at the marriage in Cana of Galilee. Let us, as his servants, bring Christ’s living presence into each wedding we conduct.

Several forms are included in this manual. Confer with the prospective bride and groom and guide them in selecting that which will best express their pledges of love and commitment. A couple may delete parts of a ceremony, or they may choose to combine selections from several. In every case, their ceremony should reflect the sacred covenant represented as well as satisfy the civil requirements. One of the pastor’s first duties in a new location is to contact the local authorities, usually in the courthouse, and register with them so that he may legally perform marriages.

The pastor may wish to meet with the couple several times, not only to discuss the wedding, but to prepare them for marriage. In the rare situation where the pastor cannot in good conscience perform a wedding, he should tell the couple. The final decision as to whether he should perform the wedding or not must always rest with the pastor, and in such cases he must be true to his conscience before God.

Conducting the Rehearsal

A wedding requires a complete rehearsal in order that, on the day of the ceremony, participants can concentrate upon the sacred union taking place, rather than wondering where to stand or what to do. Ask the bride and groom to notify all members of the wedding party of the time of the rehearsal.

The rehearsal should provide a “dry run” of the wedding ceremony (though singing may be omitted), with all matters clearly understood by the entire company, the musicians, the ushers, and the parents. A second “walk through” the movements, but not the vows, will further prepare the participants to carry out their responsibilities properly. It will also be helpful if the ushers “walk through” all of their responsibilities, which may include lighting the candles, seating the groom’s parents and bride’s mother, unrolling the aisle cloth, then taking their places with the wedding party to begin the procession.

Begin the rehearsal by asking the bride and groom to come forward and take their places in front of the minister. The bride is to the minister’s right as he faces the audience; the groom is to his left. Ask the bride to place her attendants as follows: maid of honor, matron of honor (in that order if there are both), then the bridesmaids. Ask the groom to station the best man next to him and then the groomsmen. Some brides like to arrange the couples according to height. Position the flower girl near the maid of honor, who can direct the little girl if need be. Likewise, position the ring bearer near the best man.

Consideration should be given to the most advantageous placement of the wedding party within the space and design of the sanctuary. If there are steps to a raised platform, usually the early part of the ceremony takes place on the floor level, then, at the point where the vows are to be exchanged, the participants move to the platform. Where steps are off to one side this may not be practical.

At the rehearsal, assure the bride and groom that during the ceremony the minister will prompt their responses, instructing them what to say and what movements to make. All vows should be rehearsed, though the responses need not be made. Likewise, all movements: such as coming to the platform, the ring exchange, lighting the unity candle and kneeling if the couple chooses to kneel.

The Formal Wedding

There are many ways to conduct a wedding ceremony. Help the couple choose from the following elements those that they want included in their ceremony, and how each will be handled.

Preparation

Whether the wedding party is to dress at home or at the church building, all participants should be ready at the church one hour before the ceremony begins. The auditorium should be prepared before the rehearsal. If the reception is to be in the church fellowship hall, that room should also be prepared the day before, if possible

Music

The music usually begins 30 minutes before the ceremony. Instrumental or a mixture of instrumental and vocal music can be used.

Lighting the Candles

Two ushers light the candles as soon as the music begins. If the ceremony will include the lighting of a unity candle, the ushers will light the two outer candles when they light the candles in the candelabra, or the mothers will light them at the time they are seated. The center candle is left unlit until the bride and groom light it in the unity ceremony.

The Guest Book

The guest book is placed near the entrance door and guests may sign before coming into the sanctuary.

Seating

Ushers will greet the guests at the door of the sanctuary after they have signed the guest book and will lead them to their seats. The bride’s guests are seated in the left half of the auditorium, and the groom’s on the right. However, when the wedding is held at a distance from the groom’s home and he expects fewer guests, ushers should distribute the guests evenly rather than have most seated in the bride’s section.

The usher offers his right arm to the lady when she is accompanied by her escort; to the older of the two women who have come together. If a man comes alone, an usher leads him to his seat, walking beside him on the left.

The front pews are reserved for family members of the wedding couple. Grandparents and other close family members will be seated in the second and third pews (more if necessary) on either side according to their relationship to the bride and groom. Brothers and sisters of the wedding couple who are not participating in the ceremony may sit in the first pew with the parents. If there is no railing enclosing the front pews, the parents actually sit in the second pew, grandparents in the third and so forth.

Minutes before the ceremony begins, the groom’s parents will be seated, an usher giving his right arm to the mother and leading her, with the father two steps behind, down the center aisle to the first pew on the right side.

The bride’s mother will be seated first, ushered down the center aisle to the first pew on the bride’s side (the left, facing the altar). Some brides prefer to have the candles lit just before the bride’s mother is seated, in which case the groom’s mother must be seated early enough that lighting the candles and unrolling the aisle cloth not delay the ceremony. When there is no center aisle, the right aisle may be treated as if it were a center aisle, with the wedding taking place at the head of this aisle, and the remaining sections of the auditorium are ignored.

Divorced parents do not occupy the same pew. The groom’s mother will be seated in the first pew with her husband, and the groom’s father will take his seat earlier in the third row with his wife. Likewise, the bride’s mother takes the aisle seat in the first row, with her husband if she is married. The bride’s father takes his seat in the third row on the bride’s side.

Following the seating of the bride’s mother, two ushers unroll the aisle cloth, then retire to join the wedding party, and the ceremony is ready to begin. Any guests who arrive after that should be seated from side aisles.

The Processional

When the organist begins the processional, the minister, groom, best man and groomsmen enter in that order, either from behind the altar or coming down a side aisle. The minister stands at the head of the center aisle, facing the audience; the groom stands just to his left and nearer the first pew, with the best man and groomsmen aligned parallel to the front pew.

The bridesmaids proceed slowly down the center aisle, one at a time. The farthest bridesmaid enters first, then nearer bridesmaids, with the maid of honor last.

The ring bearer follows, then the flower girl.

As the organist strikes the wedding march, the bride enters, upon the right arm of her father. Her mother stands as a signal to the congregation that they also stand and remain standing as the bride comes down the aisle.

The bride may prefer to have the groomsmen and bridesmaids enter in pairs, separating as they approach the altar to take their places. In this case, the minister, groom and the best man enter first. The attendants then enter in pairs; then the maid of honor, ring bearer, flower girl and the bride with her father.

The bride remains with her father until the minister asks, “Who is giving this woman to be married to this man?” After his reply, the bride’s father retires to his seat.

If there is no center aisle, the procession may go up the left aisle, and the wedding party may exit down the right aisle after the ceremony.

The Recessional and Dismissal of Guests

When the ceremony is over, the bride and groom will leave first, to be followed by the best man and maid of honor, the groomsmen and bridesmaids and the ring bearer and flower girl, all in pairs.

An usher returns immediately for the bride’s mother and father. A second usher comes for the groom’s parents. Then two ushers come together and, beginning at the front pew, dismisses the guests one row at a time.

The Receiving Line

The order for a formal receiving line is as follows: bride’s mother, father of the groom, matron of honor, maid of honor and bridesmaids according to age. If guests are to be received informally after the ceremony, this arrangement may be preferred: the bride and groom stand together in the center of the receiving line, with the bride’s parents next to her, the groom’s parents next to him. Bridesmaids take their places to the bride’s left at the beginning of the receiving line, the groomsmen to the groom’s right at the end, except for the two ushers who will be dismissing the guest. The maid of honor will precede the bride’s parents, the best man will stand following the groom’s parents.

FORM I1

The couple standing together, the bride at the minister’s right and the groom on the left, the minister shall say:

Marriage was ordained of God in Eden, and confirmed at the wedding in Cana of Galilee by the gracious presence and miraculous blessing of Christ. It is to unite two hearts and lives, blending all their interests, sympathies and hopes. It involves mutual compromise, loving sufferance and holy trust. I charge and entreat you, therefore, in entering upon and sustaining this hallowed union, to seed the favor and blessing of Him whose favor is life; whose blessing maketh rich and addeth no sorrow.

Short Prayer

The prayer may be in the following form, or as it may please the minister:

Lord Jesus, we beseech thee, come by thy grace to this marriage. And give to these that marry a due sense of the obligations they are now to assume. With true intent, and in utter unreserved love, may the plight their troth, and henceforth be helpmeets for each other, till death do them part. Amen.

The man and the woman here joining their right hands, the minister shall say:

Do you, G2 _____________________, take this woman whose hand you now hold, before God and these witnesses, to be your wife?

I do.

Do you promise to love, honor, sustain and cherish her, in joy and sorrow, in health and sickness, in prosperity and adversity, and to be faithful unto her as becometh a good husband, so long as you both shall live?

I do.

Do you, B ______________________, take this man whose hand you now hold, before God and these witnesses, to be your husband?

I do.

Do you promise to love, honor and cherish him, in joy and sorrow, in health and sickness, in prosperity and adversity, and to be faithful unto him as becometh a good wife, so long as you both shall live?

I do.

If a ring is used the minister shall here say to the man:

What token do you give in pledge that you will faithfully perform these vows?

Here the man, without speaking, shall present the ring, still holding it in his hand, and the minister shall say to the woman:

Do you receiving this ring in pledge of the same on your part?

Here the woman, without speaking, shall take the ring, in acceptance of the pledge on her part, pass it to the minister, and he to the man, thus making the unbroken circle: and the man shall place it upon the third finger of the woman’s left hand, when the minister shall say:

May this ring henceforth be the chaste and changeless symbol of your constant, pure and changeless affection.

Here the minister shall say:

Forasmuch, then, as you, G _________________, and you, B ____________________, have consented together in holy wedlock, and have plighted each to the other your sacred troth, by the authority of the laws of this state, and in the name of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, I pronounce you husband and wife. Amen.

What therefore, God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Henceforth, you go down life’s way together. Let love be the charmed word in the dialect of your home and hearts. And may heaven’s constant benediction crown your union with ever-increasing joy and blessedness and unite your hearts and lives by all grace and true affection of a happy marriage.

Prayer – Aaronic Benediction

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace (Numbers 6:24-26).

FORM II3

When the appointed time has arrived the minister shall thus address the assembled company:

Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the presence of God and of these witnesses to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony. If any person can show just cause why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter forever hold his peace.

He may then offer a brief prayer.

To the persons about to be married the minister shall say:

Please join your right hands.

To the man:

Do you, G ___________________, take B ________________________ to be your lawful and wedded wife; and do you solemnly promise before God and these witnesses the you will love, honor and cherish her, and in every regard prescribed by the Word of God and your own conscience that you will be to her a loving and faithful husband, till death do you part?

I do.

To the woman:

Do you, B _____________________, take G _____________________ to be your lawful and wedded husband; and do you solemnly promise before God and these witnesses that you will love, honor and cherish him, and in every regard prescribed by the Word of God and your own conscience that you will be to him a loving and faithful wife, till death do you part?

I do.

If a ring be used, the minister shall say to the man:

What token do you give of your sincerity and as a seal of your vows?

The man shall present the ring in his right hand. Then the minister shall say to the woman:

Do you, as an evidence of mutual sincerity and seal of your vows, accept this ring?

The woman offering her left hand, the man shall then place the ring on the fourth finger of the same.

The minister shall say:

Forasmuch, then as you, G __________________, and B ______________________, have thus engaged and promised, according to the ordinance of God and the laws of this commonwealth, I pronounce you husband and wife, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

Whom therefore, God has joined together, let no man put asunder.

The minister may then repeat the Lord’s Prayer.

A brief extemporaneous prayer shall follow, and the service shall conclude with a benediction.

FORM III

Double Ring Marriage Service

The parties standing in the presence of the minister, the lady at the left of the man, having previously placed the ring to be given in each case on their own left hand from which it can easily be withdrawn, the minister shall say:

The institution of holy matrimony was once ordained of God in Paradise, amid the scenes of purity and innocence. It is the highest and holiest of all earthly relationships. For the purpose of uniting in these sacred bonds, you present yourselves on this occasion, and you may, in token of your free and deliberate choice of each other as partners for life, unite right hands.

Do you G ___________________, take the lady you hold by the hand, to be your lawful and wedded wife, and promise to love, cherish and protect her, and leaving all others cleave only to her until death shall separate you? Do you promise?

I do promise.

Do you B ____________________, take the man you hold by the hand to be your lawful and wedded husband, and promise to love, cherish and honor him, and leaving all others cleave only unto him until death shall separate you? Do you promise?

I do promise.

Addressing the man, the minister shall say:

What seal do you give of plighted faith and affection?

Then the parties let go their right hands, and the man takes the woman’s left hand in his left hand, and with the right hand takes the ring from his own little finger, and places it on the correct finger of the lady’s hand, repeating after the minister these words:

With this ring I thee wed, and with my worldly goods I thee endow.

Addressing the woman, the minister shall say:

What seal do you give of plighted faith and affection?

The woman then places her left hand under his left hand and with the right had slips the ring from her finger and places it on the right finger of his left hand, repeating after the minister:

With this ring I thee wed, and with my heart’s deepest affections I thee endow.

Then the minister shall place their right hands together again, saying:

Let these rings remain as seals and symbols of unchanging love and devotion.

Having thus assumed the marriage covenant, and plighted your troth each to the other, in the giving and receiving of these rings, I do, in the presence of God and these witnesses, pronounce you husband and wife, no more two, but one flesh, one in all your temporal interest, one in every event of life, whether prosperous or adverse, on in every condition, whether in sickness or health, and what God has joined together let no man put asunder.

Prayer

FORM IV4

Dearly beloved, we are assembled here in the presence of God, to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony, which is instituted of God, regulated by his commandments, blessed by our Lord Jesus Christ, and to be held in honor among all men. Let us therefore reverently remember that God has established and sanctified marriage for the welfare and happiness of mankind. Our Savior has declared that a man shall forsake his father and mother and cleave unto his wife. By his apostles, he has instructed those who enter into this relation to cherish a mutual esteem and love; to bear with each other’s infirmities and weaknesses; to comfort each other in sickness, trouble and sorrow; in honesty and industry to provide for each other, and for their household, in temporal things; to pray for and encourage each other in the things which pertain to God; and to live together as the heirs of the grace of life.

Forasmuch as these two persons have come hither to be made one in this holy estate, if there be any here present who knows any just cause why they may not lawfully be joined in marriage, I require him now to make it known, or ever after to hold his peace.

If no impediment appear, the minister shall say:

Let us pray.

Here shall follow an extemporaneous prayer, or, at his discretion, the minister may say:

Almighty and ever blessed God, whose presence is the happiness of every condition, and whose favor sweetens every relation; we beseech thee to be present and favorable unto these thy servants, that they may be truly joined in the honorable estate of marriage, in the covenant of their God. As thou hast brought them together by thy providence, so do thou sanctify them by thy Spirit, giving them a new frame of heart fit for their new estate; and enrich them with all grace, whereby they may enjoy the comforts undergo the cares, endure the trials, and perform the duties of life together as becometh Christians, under thy heavenly guidance and protection; through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Then the minister shall say to the man:

G ________________, wilt thou have this woman to be thy wife, and wilt thou pledge thy troth to her, in all love and honor, in all duty and service, in all faith and tenderness, to live with her and cherish her, according to the ordinance of God, in the holy bond of marriage?

I will.

Then the minister shall say to the woman:

B ________________, wilt thou have this man to be thy husband, and wilt thou pledge thy troth to him, in all love and honor, in all duty and service, in all faith and tenderness, to live with him and cherish him, according to the ordinance of God, in the holy bond of marriage?

I will.

Then, if the woman is to be given away, the minister may say:

Who giveth this woman to be married to this man?

Then the father or guardian of the woman shall put her right hand into the hand of the minister, who shall cause the man with his right hand to take the woman by her right hand and to repeat after him, phrase by phrase, the following:

(If the giving away of the woman is to be omitted, then shall the minister at once cause the man with his right hand to take the woman by her right hand and to repeat after him, phrase by phrase, the following:)

I, G ______________________, take thee B ____________________, to be my wedded wife; and I do promise and covenant, before God and these witnesses, to be thy loving and faithful husband. In plenty and in want, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live.

Then shall they loose their hands; and the woman with her right hand taking the man by his right hand, shall likewise repeat after the minister, phrase by phrase, the following:

I, B ______________________, take thee G ____________________, to be my wedded husband; and I do promise and covenant, before God and these witnesses, to be thy loving and faithful wife. In plenty and in want, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live.

Then, if a ring be provided, the minister shall say to the man:

What token dost thou give, in pledge that thou wilt faithfully perform these mutual vows?

Then shall the man give the ring to the minister, who shall return it to the man, who shall put it upon the fourth finger of the woman’s left hand, holding it there, and shall say after the minister:

This ring I give thee, in token and pledge, of our constant faith and abiding love.

If a second ring be provided, then the minister shall say to the woman:

What token dost thou give, that thou wilt faithfully perform these mutual vows?

Then shall the woman give a ring to the minister, who shall return it to the woman, who shall then put it upon the fourth finger of the man’s left hand, and holding it there, shall say after the minister:

This ring I give thee, in token and pledge, of our constant faith and abiding love.

The minister shall say:

Let us pray.

Then shall he offer prayer, beseeching the favor and blessing of God upon this marriage. Or if he desires, the minister may pray as follows:

Most merciful and gracious God, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is names bestow upon these thy servants the seal of thine approval and thy fatherly benediction; granting unto them grace to fulfill, with pure and steadfast affection, the vow and covenant between them made. Guide them together, we beseech thee, in the way of righteousness and peace; that loving and serving thee, with one heart and mind all the days of their life, they may be abundantly enriched with the tokens of thine everlasting favor, in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Or else this:

Almighty God, Creator and Father of all men, who from the beginning has ordained that men should dwell together in families, bless, we pray thee, these thy servants, bestowing upon them the grace and happiness of a true marriage, in constancy and fidelity each to the other. May the gifts of understanding, patience and courage be theirs, of mutual forbearance and loving trust. Let much sunshine, and little of shadow fall upon them, as they journey along life’s pathway together. May the home that they shall establish and the family that they shall found, ever be blessed with thy loving favor. May the Lord Jesus Christ be the Head of their house, sweetening its every relation, filling them with every benediction and grace, and granting them so to live together in this life that in the world to come they may have life everlasting. Amen.

Then shall the minister say unto all who are present:

Forasmuch as G _______________ and B ___________________ have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth, each to the other and have declared the same (by giving and receiving a ring or rings and) by joining hands; now therefore, by the authority committed unto me as a minister of the gospel, I pronounce that they are husband and wife, according to the ordinance of God and the laws of the state. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

Then placing his hand over the clasped hands of the husband and wife, the minister shall say:

Whom therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder.

And the minister shall let them go with this blessing:

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace, both now and in the life everlasting. Amen.

FORM V

Minister: Dear friends, we are assembled here in the presence of God, to join this man and this woman in holy marriage, which is instituted by God, regulated by his commandments, blessed by our Lord Jesus Christ and to be held in honor among all men.

Let us therefore reverently remember that God has established and sanctified marriage for the welfare and happiness of mankind. Our Savior has declared that a man shall forsake his father and mother and cleave unto his wife. By his apostles, he has instructed those who enter into this relation to cherish a mutual esteem and love; to bear with each other’s infirmities and weaknesses; to comfort each other in sickness, trouble and sorrow; in honesty and industry to provide for each other and for their household, in temporal things; to pray for and encourage each other in these things that pertain to God; and to live together as the heirs of the grace of life.

Let us pray: Dear Lord, we are thankful for your presence here today. We ask that your blessing would be upon this couple. We believe that you have brought them together, and we pray that you will bless their commitment to each other. Give them a new heart, fit for this relationship. Enrich their lives with grace that they might endure the hardships and enjoy the comforts of their life together. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Personal Comments: In many cases, the minister has been involved in counseling with the couple. This would be a great time, at the beginning of the service, to remind them of some of the fundamental truths about the marital relationship they are about to enter.

Preliminary Vows

Each partner will respond with “I will” following the questions:

G ____________________, will you take B ____________________, to be your wife and will you give your commitment to her, in all love and honor, in all duty and service, in all faith and tenderness, to live with her and cherish her, according to the plan of God, in the holy relationship of marriage?

I will.

B ____________________, will you take G _____________________, to be your husband and will you give your commitment to him, in all love and honor, in all duty and service, in all faith and tenderness, to live with him and cherish him, according to the plan of God, in the holy relationship of marriage?

I will.

The minister will then say:

Who gives this woman to be married to this man?

The father will usually say, “Her mother and I do”. If it is not the father giving the bride away, another more appropriate response should be chosen.

Congregational comments: Quite often the pastor will share some thoughts with those in the congregation about their role in helping the married couple live their lives to the fullest.

Personal Vows5

The couple is now instructed to repeat the following vows, phrase by phrase, beginning first with the groom. The groom will take the right hand of his bride during the repeating of his vows. The bride will do the same for her vows.

I, G ___________________, take you, B __________________ to be my wife, and I do promise and covenant, before God and these witnesses, to be your loving and faithful husband, in blessing and in need, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, as long as we both will live.

I, B ___________________, take you, G __________________ to be my husband, and I do promise and covenant, before God and these witnesses, to be your loving and faithful wife, in blessing and in need, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, as long as we both will live.

Exchanging of Rings

The minister will ask the following question regarding the exchanging of rings:

G ___________________, what token do you give in pledge that you will faithfully keep your vows?

The groom will usually receive the ring from his best man and after giving it to the minister and receiving it back, place it on the fourth finger of his bride’s left hand repeating the following vow:

This ring I give thee, in token and in pledge, of our constant faith and abiding love.

The minister shall say to the woman:

B ___________________, what token do you give in pledge that you will faithfully keep your vows?

The bride will usually receive the ring from her maid or matron of honor and after giving it to the minister and receiving it back, place it on the fourth finger of her groom’s left hand repeating the following vow:

This ring I give thee, in token and in pledge, of our constant faith and abiding love.

Let us pray: Dear Lord, impart to this couple (G _____________ & B _______________) your seal of approval. May these rings serve as reminders to them of your unending love and their lifelong commitment to each other. Give to them the grace to fulfill their vows, one to another; guide them as they walk together in one heart and may it be pleasing in your sight. In the holy name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Lighting of the Unity Candle

The lighting of the unity candle signifies at least two important truths concerning marriage: 1) In marriage God brings together two people who are different, 2) He brings two people together that they might function as one in purpose. By lighting the unity candle, the couple signifies their commitment to being one in purpose and yet unique in their personalities.6

It is customary for the groom and his bride to leave the center portion of the platform and walk over to the unity candle. The groom and bride will take the outside candles and together light the center candle, which signifies their commitment to becoming one in marriage. Following the lighting of the candle and before they return to their position on center stage, it is customary to have a song sung.

Communion

Following the lighting of the unity candle, the couple will again take their places on the platform.

The minister will then say:

The lighting of the unity candle speaks very clearly about your intention to become one. This can only be possible through the work of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord’s Table symbolizes his saving and life-changing power that is available to everyone who believes on Christ in their heart and confesses him as Lord with their mouths. Do you at this time wish to proclaim your commitment to become one, in Christ, by the taking and receiving of Communion?

We do.

At this point, the couple and the minister will move toward the Communion table. The couple will kneel on a cushion or before a rail placed so the minister can stand between them and the Communion table. He will then say:

Let us remember him who said, “My body is food indeed and my blood is drink indeed.”

Then facing the altar the minister will say:

Most merciful God, accept our thanksgiving for the broken body and shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. May the benefits of his sacrifice be with this couple and overshadow their home throughout their lives. Amen.

Taking a plate containing a small piece of Communion bread scored in the middle, the minister will hold it out to the couple. If the bride’s veil falls over her mouth, the bridegroom will fold it back over her forehead. Each partner will take half of the bread and eat it as the minister says:

Take this to your comfort, and may the presence of the Lord Jesus permeate your lives.

The minister will replace the plate on the table and then pass the cup to the man, who will take a sip from it and hand it to the woman who will do the same. Meanwhile the minister will say:

Jesus said, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Drink this in remembrance of me.”

The minister will receive the cup from the woman and replace it on the table. Then he will turn toward the couple and say:

Let us pray.

The minister will offer an extemporaneous prayer of blessing or a written prayer of choice.

Dear Lord, we thank you and praise you for G _________________ and B ______________, who have publicly confessed their commitment to you and to each other on this special day. Guide them, Lord, in their life together, leading them along the path of righteousness. Impart to them the grace and happiness of a true marriage of faithfulness to each other and to you. May the Lord Jesus Christ be the head of their house, sweetening its every relation, filling them with every blessing and grace to live in this life and preparing them for the life to come. Amen.

Another option is to have the couple pray the following prayer together.

Precious Lord, please bless us on this holy day of new beginnings. Teach us to love each other purely and faithfully with a love that comes from you alone. With each new day, may we draw closer to each other as we draw closer to you. Amen.

The minister will then say:

Forasmuch as G ________________ and B _________________ have consented together in marriage, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and have given and pledged their commitment to each other and have declared the same by the giving and receiving of rings (or joining hands), therefore, by the authority committed unto me as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, I pronounce that they are husband and wife according to the ordinance of God and the law of the state. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Therefore, since God has joined you together, let no man take you apart.

After placing his hands over the couple’s hands, the minister will now say:

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace, both now and forevermore. Amen.

Following this blessing the couple may say together:

Lord, help us to remember when we first met and the strong love that grew between us and to work that love into practical things, so nothing can divide us. We ask for words both kind and loving, and hearts always ready to ask forgiveness, as well as to forgive. Dear Lord, we put our marriage into your hands. Amen.

The pastor will now say:

G ____________, you may now kiss your bride.

Introduction of the Bridal Couple

Ladies and gentlemen, it gives me great pleasure to introduce to you Mr. and Mrs. ________________.

At this point, the organist or pianist will begin to play the music for the recessional. The wedding party will begin at this time to leave the sanctuary.

PRESENTATION OF CHILDREN

While we do not believe in the practice of infant baptism or the christening of children, an increasing number of our pastors do feel that some sort of service should be held, so that those fathers and mothers who desire to dedicate their children to God in his church may have the opportunity to do so, for their own spiritual help and comfort, as well as for the good that may afterwards come to the children.

The following Scriptures and a proposed order of service will assist the pastor in ministering to families at this very important time in their lives.

A Service of Dedication For Parents and Little Children by L.A. Keating

While soft music is being played, the parents with their child will come forward to the designated place. They may be accompanied by a deacon, deaconess or friend. The pastor will then read the following:

Scripture

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them (Mark 10:13-16).

Invocation

O God our Father, who are the giver of life, we thank you for every manifestation of your love, and for these gracious words of your Son who himself, for love of us, became a little child. We ask your blessing upon these parents as they dedicate this life that you have entrusted to their keeping. Amen.

The minister shall say to the congregation:
You who are gathered today in worship are privileged to witness the coming of these parents to dedicate their child to the tender care and keeping of God our Father and to the love of the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior. In so doing, they also rededicate themselves to the maintenance of a Christian home, where Christ shall be honored and the Word of God held in reverence.

And to the Parents:
And you parents who come bringing your child, as is fitting, to the house of the Lord to offer _____________________ (name of child) before God in a service of worship, we pray with you that God’s richest blessings may attend _____________________ (name of child) on his/her journey through life. And may his blessings rest on you also as in all humility and singleness of heart you seek to train and educate him/her so that _____________________ (name of child) shall grow even as Jesus grew, “in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.”

Dedication

Recognizing the dignity and responsibility of parenthood and of your dependence upon divine help for strength and wisdom to faithfully discharge the duties of parents, do you now present _____________________ (name of child) in dedication to God, seeking diving blessing and guidance for his/her life?

We do.

Having thus purposed in your hearts, do you in the presence of these witnesses solemnly promise to arrive by precept and example, and using the many agencies of the church to train your child in love toward God, his/her family and others in the spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord?

We do.

Consecration

And now, having presented your child in dedication to God, do you also desire to reconsecrate yourselves to Christ and in the spirit of this commitment live exemplary lives, relying upon the grace of God, to so commend Christ by your example?

We do.

Having heard these vows and sacred assurance, as a minister of Christ, I joyously and with earnest prayer commend your child to the gracious keeping of God, our Heavenly Father. Your child will not remember this day; therefore, tell him/her early of the commitment and the prayers made this day in her/her behalf.

Prayer

Our Father, let your blessing be upon this child, and guide these parents we pray by your light and your truth, that in humbleness and with sincerity they shall walk before you in righteousness with a sense of divine guidance all their days. Grant, we beseech you, the holiest desires of their hearts concerning this child. Hear us as we together pray even as our Lord taught us: (Parents will join in the Lord’s Prayer).

A Child’s Hymn

Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us

Selected Scripture

Genesis 44:32

Your servant guaranteed the boy’s safety to my father. I said, “If I do not bring him back to you, I will bear the blame before you, my father all my life!”

Psalm 127:3-4

Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one’s youth.

Psalm 128:3-4

Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. Thus is the man blessed who fears the Lord.

1 Samuel 1:27-28

I prayed for this child, and the Lord granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord. And he worshiped the Lord there.

Luke 2:22, 24-32

When the time of their purification according the Law of Moses had been completed, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. And to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: a pair of doves or two young pigeons.

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required. Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”

Luke 18:15-16

People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

Matthew 18:10

See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.

Mark 10:13-16

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.

BAPTISM7

Preparation

In many churches, the candidates for baptism will prepare prior to the service. They might sit in a room close to the sanctuary in order to hear the service as it progresses. In other settings, the baptismal candidates will remain in the service and actively participate in the worship experience until an appropriate time, which has been predetermined, when it is necessary for them to get changed for the baptismal service. At this time, it would be appropriate for the deacons and deaconesses to be ready to assist the candidates in their preparation. This might include making sure that their baptismal robes are ready, that they have handkerchiefs or face cloths to use in the service and that towels are available for them as they come out of the baptismal.

The pastor should remind each candidate of the way in which he will conduct the service. By doing this, he can reduce much of the anxiety that the candidate might have about being immersed in the water. The most important thing the pastor can do at this point is to encourage and support the candidate and make this service a great experience of faith.

The Service

A baptismal service should be a time of rejoicing and praising God for the step of faith the candidate has made. It is common for the entire church body to engage in worship and praise through singing songs that focus on the love of the Lord, both his love for us and ours for him. Songs of commitment also highlight the significance of the service being shared by all.

It is common and appropriate for the pastor to speak about each candidate prior to his/her baptism. In many families, this is a special time in the life of their loved one. Some churches make a special effort to highlight the candidate’s journey of faith by telling his story of coming to Christ. This can be done through the printed word, a Powerpoint presentation or the personal word of one who played a special part in the candidate’s conversion. The important thing to emphasize is that baptism is something to be celebrated by the entire church body.

At this point, the pastor will carry out the baptism according to the acceptable and biblical baptismal formula (Matthew 28:19 – “...baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit...”).

Following the baptism, it is common for the pastor to offer a prayer and the laying on of hands for the candidate. In many churches, the candidate will ask a special family member or friend to offer prayer following baptism. The deacons or deaconesses should be ready to assist the candidate from the baptismal pool and to the appropriate changing room.

The Service (an example)

The entire congregation rising, the pastor will say to each baptismal candidate:

_____________________ (candidate’s name), we have come here to pray with you as you are about to obey and confess your Savior and Lord in the most significant step of baptism. Your baptism is based on profession of your faith. Therefore, it is appropriate that you are here, before this congregation, to confess your repentance, your faith and Christian purpose.

Question to the candidate:

Do you at this time publicly forsake Satan and all of his sinful attempts to pull you away from God?

I do.

Do you believe with all your heart the Word of God and the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, and do you here and now desire to be baptized in this faith?

I do.

Do you consecrate yourself to God, and commit to keeping his commandments, and doing his will all the days of your life?

I do.

It would be appropriate at this point in the service to offer a prayer of blessing on the candidates as they approach the baptismal service.

Formulas

My brother (or sister) on your repentance and profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and by his command, I now baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Brother (or sister), since you have turned from your sins and have accepted Christ as your Savior, your Lord and Master, I now, in obedience to the great Head of the church, baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Some prefer to use simply the Christian name, feeling that this adds a more directly personal note:

_______________ (name of candidate), upon profession of your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, and by his command, I now baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The following may be preferred at the baptism of a committed Christian, who is being obedient to a new understanding of the Bible’s teaching on this subject.

In obedience to the command, and in imitation of the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, I now baptize you, in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Selected Scripture

Jesus Recognizing Baptism

Matthew 3:1-2, 5-8, 11-17

In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.

But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to the: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. I baptize you with water for repentance, But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”

Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?”

Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all the righteousness.” Then John consented.

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is My Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

Jesus Commanding Baptism

Matthew 28:18-20

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Command and Practice of Baptism in the Acts

Acts 2:36-42

“Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”

When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off – for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

Acts 10:44-48

While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.

Then Peter said, “Can anyone keep these people from being baptized with water? They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

Baptism in the Epistles – Symbolism and Mode

Romans 6:2-11

We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin – because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.

Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.

In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:26-27

You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

Colossians 2:11-12

In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.

RECEPTION OF NEW MEMBERS

The reception of new members is a very important time in the life of a local church. The entire church body should always be interested in those who would seek to join the church in membership. Sometimes, however, the process is not always clear to the potential member. Each church body would do well to make clear what a person must do in order to join the church. Once a person shows interest in membership, his name should be conveyed to the leadership of the church, so as to insure a proper response to their inquiry.

It would be wise to offer any candidate for membership the opportunity to read some of the church’s official documents. This material may vary from church to church but will often include a vision or mission statement declaring the purpose and direction of the church, the Declaration of Principles describing those beliefs that bind the church together as a people and the constitution and by-laws which explain how the local church operates on a daily basis.

In many cases, the church has a clearly defined process through which candidates for membership flow that insures that their questions are answered. However, if this is not the case, it is a good practice for the candidates to spend some time with a member of the pastoral staff to insure that their questions are responded to and to give the pastor a chance to learn more about their experiences of salvation and their particular interests regarding the church.

Once a person is recommended for church membership, his name should be acted upon by the church at the next regular service. In some churches, it is preferred to receive members during Holy Communion, while others receive people into membership during the next business meeting of the church.

In many churches being accepted into membership by the official board is sufficient. A service that includes the receiving of new members is usually highlighted by the giving of the right hand of fellowship, which officially welcomes the new members into the church. During the service the pastor may address the members in the following way:

Dear friends, joining a local church is an important event in the life of a Christian. It is the beginning of a relationship that brings many blessings as well as responsibilities. It is fitting then, that as you enter this fellowship, you do here publicly confess your faith and declare your purpose by answering these questions:

Do you here and now, in the presence of God and his people, renew your baptismal vows by which you set apart yourself unto God in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit?

I do.

Do you believe and love the Word of God, and also accept and agree to the vision or mission and faith of this church, and will you by the grace of God live according to these standards?

I will.

Is it your intention to hold sacred the ordinances of God, to promote the wellbeing of your fellow members and to contribute of your means, as the Lord shall bless you, for the support and extension of the gospel through your local church?

It is my purpose to do so.

As the congregation rises, the pastor will say:

Dear friends, since you have been accepted into membership with us and have entered into a covenant relationship with God and with us, we therefore welcome you to the communion of the church and in testimony of our Christian affection, and the warmth with which we receive you, I hereby extend to you, in the name of Christ, and on behalf of the church, the right hand of fellowship. May God grant that you will be faithful and useful members of the church and that when Christ shall present the church to himself, glorious and without spot, you may share her joy and everlasting triumph. Amen.

A Less Formal Service

When a less formal service is desired, the pastor may begin by introducing the people who are joining as members and invite them to join him at the front of the sanctuary. At this point the pastor may offer a brief welcome, after which he should extend to them the right hand of fellowship. The service concludes by asking the congregation to rise and sing a fellowship hymn.

Or the pastor may share a few appropriate words to each person in turn, welcoming them in a personal and friendly way into the church. After each person has been given the right hand of fellowship, the pastor would ask the congregation to rise and sing a fellowship hymn. It would be appropriate to conclude this service with a Communion service.

In the case of an informal service, the congregation should be instructed to extend their individual welcomes to the new members as the close of the service. It is better that this be done spontaneously after the service, and not in any set, formal fashion in the service itself.

SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR COMFORT IN TRIAL AND SICKNESS

Psalm 27:1

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 25:16-18, 20

Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Relieve the troubles of my heart and free me from my anguish. Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins. Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.

Habakkuk 3:17-19

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.

Isaiah 43:1-2

But now, this is what the Lord says — he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”

Isaiah 63:9

In all their distress he too was distressed, and the angel of his presence saved them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old.

Psalm 20:1-4

May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion. May he remember all your sacrifices and accept your burnt offerings. May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.

Psalm 94:12-15

Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law; you grant them relief from days of trouble, till a pit is dug for the wicked. For the Lord will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance. Judgment will again be founded on righteousness, and all the upright in heart will follow it.

Proverbs 3:11-12

My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.

Hebrews 12:8-13

If you are not disciplined — and everyone undergoes discipline — then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.

Hebrews 4:15-16

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

James 5:7-11

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

Psalm 119:49-50, 59-60, 75-77

Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering in this: your promise preserves my life. I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes. I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands. I know, O Lord, that your laws are righteous and in faithfulness you have afflicted me. May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant. Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight.

Romans 8:14, 16-17

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs — heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

2 Corinthians 4:7-10, 16-18

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 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.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 12:7-10

To keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

1 Peter 1:3-7

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith — of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire — may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

1 Peter 4:12-16

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

Lamentations 3:31-33

For men are not cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men.

Psalm 121:1-8

I lift up my eyes to the mountains — where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip — he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you — the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. (This has been called “The Psalm of the Keeping Jehovah”).

For Those Near to Death

Isaiah 40:1-2

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.

Psalm 23:1-2, 4

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 73:26

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Psalm 16:8-11

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay. You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Isaiah 66:13-14

As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem. When you see this, your heart will rejoice and you will flourish like grass; the hand of the Lord will be made known to his servants, but his fury will be shown to his foes.

Hebrews 2:14-16

Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death — that is, the devil — and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants.

Romans 8:35-39

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

2 Timothy 1:12; 4:6-8

That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day. For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

1 John 3:1-2

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

Philippians 3:20-21

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

FUNERALS

Order of Service

It is quite common for a funeral service to begin with organ background music as friends and family members enter the sanctuary. The pastor will usually start the spoken part of the service by the reading of the Scriptures. The following scriptural passages, along with others, should be considered for this purpose:

Selected Scriptures

Hebrews 9:27-28

Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

John 11:25-27

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” “Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”

Job 19:25-27

I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes – I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

Revelation 14:13

Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”

After the reading of selected Scriptures, the service will often include the following: singing, prayer, Scripture reading related to the message, personal remarks from friends and family, sermon, hymns and benediction.

At the Funeral Home or Chapel

More and more funerals are conducted in funeral homes or chapels. The service may begin with an invocation and follow the same order as mentioned above.

In the Home

Funerals are occasionally held in the home, and in many cases there is no place more suitable for such a service, especially if the deceased let a quiet and private life. The order should be simple and appropriately designed given the context of the home. The service should include many of the same ingredients found in a service held at the church or funeral home.

At the Grave

It is customary for the pastor to precede the casket both when it is taken from the church or home to the hearse, and when it is carried from the hearse to the grave. The pastor normally stands at the head of the grave for the burial service. If he expects to use a form of committal, he should notify the funeral director in advance, so that he may be prepared.

The service at the grave should be brief, and as formal as the situation permits, inasmuch as this tends to bring under control the emotions of the family, who usually find this part of their ordeal the most difficult to bear.

When the body has been prepared to be lowered into the grave and the family and friends have gathered about, the pastor shall say,

Let us pray:

Lord, support us all the day long on the uneven journey of life, until the evening comes, and the shadows lengthen, and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over and our work is done. Then, of thy mercy, grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest and peace at last, through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Or else this:

Dear Lord, just as you stood by the grave of your dear friend Lazarus and grieved with the family over their loss, please, O Lord, come to your servants today and keep your promise not to leave us comfortless. In this hour through the gentle ministry of the Holy Spirit, make yourself known. Remind us that one day you will raise him/her up at the last day. Hear us, O Lord, for your own name and mercy’s sake. Amen.

Then the pastor shall say:

Hear the words of the apostle Paul: Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to go! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

If a committal is used, then the pastor may use one of the following:

Committals

1. Forasmuch as it hath seemed good to almighty God, our heavenly Father, in his wise providence, to permit the death of our (brother, sister, friend), we therefore submissively resign and commit him/her soul, body and spirit, to the merciful, faithful and secure keeping of God our Savior, looking for the general resurrection in the last day and the life of the world to come, through our Lord Jesus Christ; at whose Second Coming in glorious majesty to judge the world, the earth and sea shall give up their dead and the corruptible bodies of those who sleep in him shall be changed and made like unto his own glorious body, according to the mighty working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

This should be followed by prayer and benediction; or, if preferred, before the prayer other Scriptures may be quoted; or the Apostle’s Creed (in whole or a part) may be used, also the Lord’s Prayer.

2.We have come here to lay our dead out of sight. But we sorrow not as those who have no hope. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, we commit all that is mortal of this our brother/sister to the earth whence he came; earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. And to him that sitteth on high, in whose hands are the keys of death and hell, we look for that resurrection of the body whereof he was the first fruits from the dead.8

3. Forasmuch as in the natural course of human mortality, our brother (sister, friend) has fallen on sleep and been gathered to his/her fathers, we therefore resign and commit him (or her) to the bosom of mother earth, and to the tender watchcare of a loving heavenly Father. And by the opening buds we now scatter upon his/her sleeping form, we witness to our faith in that glorious Resurrection, when that which is sown in weakness shall be raised in power and when God shall give to every seed his/her own body. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

4. Unveil thy bosom, faithful tomb;

Take this new treasure to thy trust,

And give these sacred relics room

To slumber in the silent dust.

Nor pain, nor grief, nor anxious fear,

Invades thy bounds; no mortal woes

Can reach the peaceful sleeper here,

While angels watch the soft repose.

So Jesus slept; God’s only Son

Passed through the grave and blest the bed;

Rest here blest saint, till from his throne

The morning break, and pierce the shade.9

Then the pastor shall say:

Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”

If it is doubtful that the deceased died in the triumphs of a Christian faith, the above may be omitted.

The Benediction

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Suggested helps for services for unchurched people.10

When doing a funeral service for a person who made no clear confession of faith in Christ, or whose life seriously contradicted any profession of faith, it is helpful to divide the service into two distinct parts, as follows:

Part One

Opening Scripture

Welcome

Invocation

Songs

Eulogy

Highlight the major events and interesting facts about the person’s life and any admirable character qualities or special memories that friends and family may provide. There should be no attempt to diagnose the person’s spiritual condition, or implying anything about whether we’ll see that person someday in God’s eternal kingdom. The focus is on the life already lived, not on the future.

Song

Part Two

Short message to the living: a sympathetic acknowledgement that (a) the death of a friend or loved one causes real grief and that we should allow ourselves to express that, while offering comfort and support to one another; and, (b) that such a loss often causes us to think of our own mortality. Where, then, can we look for hope, as we consider the reality of death? The minister can ask that question and then answer it with the good news that Jesus, God’s Son, came into the world to atone for sin and conquer death by his own death and resurrection; and that God promises to raise us to an immortal, happy existence in his presence if we repent of our sins and put our trust in Christ. This should be a simple, tactful presentation of the gospel, avoiding the style of an “evangelistic crusade.” It is more appropriate and effective when a minister speaks as a fellow grieving mortal who also stands in need of hope.

Song

Prayer for Comfort

Benediction

Committal Service

You’ve gathered to say goodbye to ______________. He/she was a part of your lives, and will certainly be missed. It’s not easy to be here; but it’s important to express our grief and to support each other. Some of the sorrow we feel may come from being reminded of our own mortality. We know that people will gather for our funeral, one day. That should motivate us to live for what is truly important.

Someone once asked the Lord Jesus about proper priorities in life, and he gave a profound answer: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all you mind. [and] … You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt. 22:37, 39, NKJ). Relationships are very important!

We’re dependent on other people who enrich and influence our lives in a multitude of ways – more than we probably realize. No one is an island; we need to be connected to others. And, to be complete, we need to be connected to God. Though our sins separate us from him, the Scriptures assure us that God’s Son, Jesus Christ, “bore our sins in his own body on the cross ... so that he might bring us to God ...” (2 Pet. 2:24; 3:18, NASB).

We can be reconnected to our Creator, because Christ took our punishment and was raised to life. We can be totally forgiven, here and now, and be resurrected to live forever when he returns. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in [trusts in, relies on] him shall not perish but have eternal life” (Jn. 3:16, NASB).

We can know that he’ll receive us into the kingdom of heaven if we receive him as King of our lives. When we welcome him into our hearts, he rescues us from the guilt and grip of sin; he eases our grief and fear of death, and he gives us peace and unshakable hope.

Today, we’ve come here to honor ____________’s memory, and say goodbye to him/her. In God’s purpose, perhaps we’re also here to discover a deeper faith than we’ve known before, and a new set of priorities. Don’t let grief turn you inward. Reach out to each other in love and support. And reach out to the Creator of all life, who is stronger than death. Let’s pray.

Prayer of Committal - Option 1

Our Father and Creator, you formed the first man from the dust of the ground and gave him life. We thank you for the gift of life. We thank you for the gift of life, and for the people we meet as we walk through this world. Those here today, and many who can’t be here, can say “Thank you for the privilege of knowing _______________.”

Thank you, O God, for hope in the face of death. Thank you for forgiving our sins when we confess and turn to you for mercy. Thank you for offering us eternal life through your Son, Jesus.

And now, Father, we commit ______________’s body to this resting place, and his/her soul into your hands. And we look forward to that day when your Son returns to judge the world and welcome all of his followers into your eternal kingdom.

May your Holy Spirit comfort us and turn us toward the kind of life that will please you and be a positive influence on those around us. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Prayer of Committal - Option 2

Dear Father God, even as we mourn the loss of _______________, we thank you for the gift of his/her life. Thank you for the opportunity we had to know him/her, and for the unique abilities and talents you gave to him/her.

Lord, we’re reminded of our own mortality, as we gather here today. Thank you for the gift of eternal life through Jesus, your Son. Help us each to receive that greatest of gifts. May we all commit our lives to you, now and forever, trusting your grace and power to pardon and transform us, and bring us into your eternal presence.

And, now, we commit _____________’s body to this resting place, and his/her spirit11 into your hands, Father, until that day when all shall rise to be judged by the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Please help us each prepare for that. And, may your Holy Spirit give us comfort and hope, and faith to live for you. In the name of Jesus.

May God give us peace, as we trust his mercy and believe his Word. Amen.

FUNERAL SCRIPTURE READINGS

Scripture Readings

The pastor may begin by reading such selections from sections I and II as he thinks best; whichever is appropriate, and complete the reading of the Scriptures by selections from the final group on Christian hope.

Human Mortality

Psalm 124:8

Our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

1 Chronicles 29:15

We are aliens and strangers in your sight, as were all our forefathers. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope.

Psalm 103:15-16, 13-14

As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on these who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.

Isaiah 40:6-8

A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?” “All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the work of our God stands forever.”

Psalm 90:1-6, 10-12

Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You turn men back to dust, saying, “Return to dust, O sons of men.” For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night. You sweep men away in the sleep of death; they are like the new grass of the morning – though in the morning it springs up new, by evening it is dry and withered. The length of our days is seventy years – or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. Who knows the power of your anger? For your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you. Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Comfort in Affliction

Isaiah 66:13

As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.

John 14:18

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

Isaiah 51:12

I, even I, am he who comforts you. Who are you that you fear mortal men, the sons of men, who are but grass?

Psalm 121:1-8

I will lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip – he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you – the Lord is you shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Psalm 63:7

Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

Isaiah 43:1-2

But now, this is what the Lord says – he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel; “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Children

Jeremiah 31:15-17

This is what the Lord says: “A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted because her children are no more.” This is what the Lord says: “Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded” declares the Lord. “They will return from the land of the enemy. So there is hope for your future,” declares the Lord. “Your children will return to their own land.”

Isaiah 40:10-11

See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and his arm rules for him. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

Mark 10:13-16

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.

Youth and Middle Life

Job 14:1-2, 7-15

Man born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He springs up like a flower and withers away; like a fleeting shadow, he does not endure. At least there is hope for a tree: If it is cut down, it will sprout again, and its new shoots will not fail. Its roots may grow old in the ground and its stump die in the soil, yet at the scent of water it will bud and put forth shoots like a plant. But man dies and is laid low; he breathes his last and is no more. As water disappears from the sea or a riverbed becomes parched and dry, so man lies down and does not rise; till the heavens are no more men will not awake or be roused from their sleep. If only you would hide me in the grave and conceal me till your anger has passed! If only you would set me a time and then remember me! If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my hard service I will wait for my renewal to come. You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made.

Ecclesiastes 11:7-10; 12:1-2, 7-8

Light is sweet and it pleases the eyes to see the sun, however many years a man may live, let him enjoy them all. But let him remember the days of darkness, for they will be many. Everything to come is meaningless. Be happy, young man, while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you to judgment. So then, banish anxiety from your heart and cast off the troubles of your body, for youth and vigor are meaningless. Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of you trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them” – before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars grow dark, and the clouds return after the rain; and the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it. “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Everything is meaningless.”

Luke 7:11-16

Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out – the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.” Then he went up and touched the coffin, and those carrying it stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother, They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.”

The Aged

Psalm 39:4-5

“Show me, O Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you.”

Psalm 116:7-8, 14-15

Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you. For you, O Lord, have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Psalm 90:1-6, 10-12

Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You turn men back to dust, saying “Return to dust, O sons of men.” For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night. You sweep men away in the sleep of death; they are like the new grass of the morning – though in the morning it springs up new, by evening it is dry and withered. The length of our days is seventy years – or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. Who knows the power of your anger? For your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you. Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Ministers of the Gospel

1 Peter 5:1-4

To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed. Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

2 Timothy 4:6-8

For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

Revelation 3:12

Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name.

Public Men and Office-bearers

Psalm 92:12-15

The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, “The Lord is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him.”

2 Samuel 3:31-32, 35-38

Then David said to Joab and all the people with him, “Tear your clothes and put on sackcloth and walk in mourning in front of Abner.” King David himself walked behind the bier. They buried Abner in Hebron, and the king wept aloud at Abner’s tomb. All the people wept also. Then they all came and urged David to eat something while it was still day; but David took an oath saying, “May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if I taste bread or anything else before the sun sets!” All the people took note and were pleased; indeed, everything the king did pleased them. So on that day all the people and all Israel knew that the king had no part in the murder of Abner son of Ner. Then the king said to his men, “Do you not realize that a prince and a great man has fallen in Israel this day?”

The Christian Hope

Job 19:23-27

Oh, that my words were recorded, that they were written on a scroll, that they were inscribed with an iron tool on lead, or engraved in rock forever! I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes – I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

Psalm 16:9, 11

Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure. You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Psalm 17:15

And I – in righteousness I will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.

John 11:25-26

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

John 14:1-3

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore, encourage each other with these words.

1 Corinthians 15:51-58

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed – in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound the dead will be raised imperishable and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Revelation 21:1-4

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Revelation 22:3-5

No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign forever and ever.

ORDINATION

Ordination to the ministry is one of the most solemn and sacred services of the church. If possible, the service should take place in a public meeting in the presence of the church body over which the candidate for ordination is to serve as pastor.

The candidate should demonstrate his readiness for this important step by holding a ministerial license and using his spiritual gifts over a pre-determined period of time, depending on the conference within which the candidate is serving. Although it is believed that the Holy Spirit will empower anyone whom God calls, the pursuit of an adequate education is highly desirable. Such educational qualifications are set forth in the Ministerial Standard for Ordination as adopted by the General Conference.

The process of ordination usually begins with a request from the church of which the candidate is a member. The church recommends to the conference, which then authorizes the ministerial committee to proceed with the ordination after it has examined the candidate as to his doctrinal views and Christian experience, and has reported favorably. Some conferences authorize the ministerial committee to act upon its own responsibility in cases of urgency between conference sessions. In such cases, the proposed candidate should also be approved by the conference board.

It is usually a good evangelical practice not to encourage a pastor with a minister’s license to perform the responsibilities of the ministry beyond that of preaching, teaching and the daily ministry of the church. However, some conferences in special cases do permit those with a minister’s license to administer the Lord’s Supper and baptize their own congregation. In addition, the pastor with a minister’s license is usually permitted to perform a marriage ceremony, but each church is advised to check with the requirements of their individual states where authorization of this privilege is given.

Order of Service12

Prelude

This is a good time to prepare the congregation for the service they are about to experience. The organist and/or pianist could play some of the great hymns of the church while people are arriving. In addition, it would be helpful to provide some clearly written material about the nature of ordination in the program, so as to prepare the congregation for the significance of the service that is about to begin.

Statement of Purpose

A statement of purpose has at least two components: 1) the setting apart of a person for a specific calling of God on his life to be involved in the pastoral ministry and 2) a clear and forthright challenge for the local church to support their leader as God leads him. A statement of purpose would make these aspects of the ordination event clear.

Hymn

(Suggested): “Zion, Haste, Thy Mission High Fulfilling”

Invocation

Scripture Reading

Biblical passages such as Acts 13:1-3; Ephesians 4:7-13; and 2 Timothy 4:1-5 are appropriate to read at this time.

Ministry of Music

Sermon

The ordination sermon should focus on God’s call upon a person to commit himself to pastoral ministry and the fact that God will provide everything necessary to fulfill this purpose.

Hymn

“Oh, To Be Like Thee”

Ordination Vows

These vows are usually administered by a pastor who is a part of the licensing board or perhaps a conference president or regional superintendent. As in a marriage ceremony, this part of the service is where the candidate states publicly before God and witnesses his intention to keep his commitment to serve God, the church and others in accordance with God’s call upon his life.

The minister administering the vows shall turn to the candidate, addressing the following questions to him:

1. Do you believe in one God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – and do you confess and commit to the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord and acknowledge him as the Lord of the church, which is his body?

2. Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and new Testaments to be the Word of God, the only infallible rule of faith and practice?

3. Do you promise to work with your fellow believers in a spirit of mutual submission regarding the work of the Lord?

4. Do you have a clear calling from the Lord to serve him in the pastoral ministry?

5. Do you give your word to be passionate and faithful in maintaining the truths of the gospel, with a spirit of peace and a commitment to purity on behalf of the church, regardless of the persecution or opposition that may come to pass?

6. Do you intend to be faithful and diligent in the exercise of all your duties as a Christian and a minister of the gospel, whether private or public, and to attempt by the grace of God to live a live that will honor the pastoral ministry and demonstrate faithfulness to the church over which he will give you leadership?

7. Do you now commit to the work of the ministry (evangelist, teacher, editor, etc.,) and do you promise, in dependence upon God for strength, to be faithful in the exercise of all the duties incumbent upon you as a minister of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ?

Ordaining Prayer and the Laying on of Hands

The candidate will often select a pastor-friend who will offer a prayer on behalf of the candidate, followed by a larger group of clergy and ministry officials who will acknowledge God’s call upon the person’s life and demonstrate this by laying on of hands (Acts 6:1-6; 1 Timothy 1:3-7).

Right Hand of Fellowship

The right hand of fellowship is sometimes extended immediately in the service while at other times following the service. In either setting, this act indicates the official welcoming of the candidate into the ministry with all of its responsibilities and privileges.

Charge to the Candidate

There are many things about the pastoral ministry that can only be learned after years of experience. However, at this point in the service, the person of the candidate’s choice (often a pastoral colleague of respect) is given an opportunity to share some words of wisdom for the candidate as he embarks on his journey of service unto the Lord in the pastoral ministry.

Address of Charge to the People

Again, at the discretion of the candidate, a person is selected to give a charge to the local congregation. These words are intended to be an encouragement to the local body as they support the ongoing ministry of their pastor. Special care is usually given to the ways in which the congregation can support their pastor and make his ministry a fruitful one for the glory of God.

Hymn

“Oh, Jesus I Have Promised”

Closing Prayer & Benediction

In many services, the newly ordained pastor is offered the opportunity to close the service in prayer and pronounce a benediction of blessing upon all in attendance.

[Optional Dedication of Candidate’s Wife]

Without announcement, the candidate and his wife shall meet the presiding minister at the front of the sanctuary, facing the chancel with their hands joined. The minister administering the vows shall say:

The calling to the gospel ministry, more than any other, necessitates that the wife, with her husband, pledge her life and love and allegiance to Jesus Christ.

The nature of the marriage relationship making of the two one flesh and the spiritual demands of the pastoral relationship make it imperative that the wife be vitally related to him who is the Head of the church, and that the home that together they have established give witness to the lordship of Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

The apostle Paul’s instruction regarding the prerequisites of the office of deacon provides scriptural support of this solemn conclusion. We read, “In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers, but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be the husband of one wife and must manage his children and household well” (1 Timothy 3:11-12).

It is fitting then ___________________ (name of wife) that as you stood at the altar of the church to promise your love to ___________________ (name of husband) in that relationship which best describes the union of Christ and his church that you stand with him now as he publicly responds to the call of God and that you give expression to your purpose in the cherished pledge of fidelity uttered by Ruth to Naomi.

The wife facing her husband will speak the following:

“Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God (Ruth 1:16).

Selected Scriptures

Isaiah 61:1-3

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.

Isaiah 52:7-8

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the Lord returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes.

Ezekiel 33:7-9

Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the people of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. When I say to the wicked, ‘You wicked person, you will surely die,’ and you do not speak out to dissuade them from their ways, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. But if you do warn the wicked person to turn from their ways and they do not do so, they will die for their sin, though you yourself will be saved.

John 15:16

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit —fruit that will last — and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.

Mark 16:15-16

He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”

Romans 10:11-15

As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile — the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

Acts 13:2-3

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

Ephesians 4:11-12

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.

Titus 1:5-9

The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless — not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

1 Timothy 5:21

I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.

2 Timothy 4:1-5

In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage — with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

1 Timothy 4:6-7, 10-12, 15-16

If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

INSTALLATION

By conducting an installation service, the church can send a positive message to its new pastor. It provides a great opportunity for the church to expose the pastor to the community through advertisement in the local media as well as giving the pastor an occasion to meet and fellowship with other pastors in the city.

The installation service can be tailored to capture the unique talents and gifts of the new pastor as well as the specific ministry of the local church. The service should be designed to introduce the new pastor, challenge and encourage the church and welcome the pastor to the local community of faith.

Installation Service Outline

This service should include: singing, invocation, Scripture reading, prayer, sermon, address of welcome, address to the church of congratulations and counsel and benediction by the new pastor.

Scripture Selections

Psalm 71:15

My mouth will tell of your righteousness, of your salvation all day long, though I know not its measure.

Psalm 71:16

I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, O Sovereign Lord: I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone.

Psalm 71:17

Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.

Luke 24:45-49

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Acts 1:8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Matthew 28:19-20

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

Matthew 9:35-38

Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

John 20:21-23

Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

2 Corinthians 5:18-6:1

All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain.

1 Peter 5:2-4

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

1 Peter 4:10-11

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

DEDICATION SERVICE

According to the Old Testament, the ancient tabernacle and temple were sacred places. They were holy places because of the presence of God and the ministry of priests, holy places where offerings and sacrifices were made according to God’s design. In modern times, few seem to hold this same conviction about our church buildings.

One might ask, “Is not the presence of God experienced in our churches? Are they not dedicated to be used for worship and praise? Are not the holy sacraments of the gospel administered there? Are not people set free from their sin, granted a new life in Christ, graciously set apart to God, and given visions of God’s work for the future? What more could set a building apart for God’s glory than a continued ministry such as this?

And if this were not enough, certainly we believe in the importance of the pulpit where God’s Word is proclaimed; the altar where repentant sinners find forgiveness; the baptistery where believers are immersed in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit; and the Communion table where the emblems of the body and blood of Jesus Christ are shared. These are essential factors of a holy and sacred ministry.

A dedication service should focus on the importance of using the church building for the glory of God. The service should include carefully selected hymns and songs, Scripture readings, an appropriate sermon, an act of dedication and a prayer of dedication.

Responsive Reading

(Pastor) How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty!

(Congregation) My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.

Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for her young – a place near your altar, O Lord Almighty, my King and my God.

Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you.

Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.

As they pass through the valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools.

They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.

Better is one day in thy courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.

O Lord Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.

One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I see; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.

For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.

Within your temple, O God, we meditate on your unfailing love.

Like your name, O God, your praise reaches to the ends of the earth; your right hand is filled with righteousness.

Mount Zion rejoices, the villages of Judah are glad because of your judgements.

For this God is our god forever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.

Selected Scripture

1 Kings 8:12-13, 27-30, 54-58

Then Solomon said, “The Lord has said that he would dwell in a dark cloud; I have indeed built a magnificent temple for you, a place for you to dwell forever.”

“But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built! Yet give attention to your servant’s prayer and his plea for mercy, O Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence this day. May your eyes be open toward this temple night and day, this place of which you said, ‘My name shall be there,’ so that you will hear the prayer your servant prays toward this place. Hear the supplication of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive.”

When Solomon had finished all these prayers and supplications to the Lord, he rose from before the altar of the Lord, where he had been kneeling with his hands spread out toward heaven. He stood and blessed the whole assembly of Israel in a loud voice, saying:

“Praise be to the Lord, who had given rest to his people Israel just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave through his servant Moses. May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our fathers; may he never leave us nor forsake us. May he turn our hearts to him, to walk in all his ways and to keep the commands, decrees and regulations he gave our fathers.”

Psalms 122:1; 100:4-5

I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

1 Peter 1:24-25; 2:4-6

For all men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the Word of the Lord stands forever.

As you come to him, the living Stone – rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him – you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says:

“See I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”

Matthew 16:18

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.

Ephesians 2:17-22

He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

1 Timothy 3:14-16

Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is he church of the living god, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great:

He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.

2 Chronicles 7:12, 15

The Lord appeared to him at night and said: “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a temple for sacrifices.” Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.

Act of Dedication13

(Pastor) Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it;

(Congregation) They will sing before the Lord, for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the earth in righteousness and the peoples in his truth.

To the glory of God the Father, by whose favor we have built this house; to the honor of Jesus, the Christ, the Son of the living God, our Lord and Savior; to the ministry of the Holy Spirit, source of life and light;

We dedicate this house.

For worship in prayer and song; for the ministry of the Word; for the celebration of the holy sacraments;

We dedicate this house.

For the comfort to those who mourn; for the strength to those who are tempted; for help in right living;

We dedicate this house.

For the sanctification of the family; for the guidance of childhood; for the salvation of men;

We dedicate this house.

For the fostering of patriotism; for the training for conscience; for aggression against evil;

We dedicate this house.

For the help of the needy; for the promotion of brotherhood; for building up the cause of Christ;

We dedicate this house.

As a tribute of gratitude and love, a freewill offering of thanksgiving and praise, from those who have tasted the cup of thy salvation, and experienced the riches of thy grace;

We, the people of this church and congregation, now consecrating ourselves anew, dedicate this entire building to and in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost.

Dedication of the Church and Furnishings (Alternate Form)

(Pastor) We set apart this house to the worship of the living and true God, and to the service of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

(Congregation) We devote it to the preaching of the gospel of the grace of God for the conversion of sinners, and to the education of Christians in a knowledge of spiritual truth, in all activities of the Christian life.

Here shall the incense of prayer and praise ascend to God. Here shall the ordinances of the Lord’s house be sacredly observed.

Here shall the Word of God, which liveth and abideth forever, be sounded out for the salvation of the perishing, and shine as a perpetual light to guide God’s pilgrims through the night of time to the land of everlasting light.

Here may children of sin and sorrow find a refuge from despair and ruin, and Christians a harbor to that they can resort when the tempest is high and be safe.

May no discordant note of strife ever be heard within these walls, no unholy spirit of pride or worldliness find entrance here.

And may God graciously accept this offering of a house in his name – an offering made by grateful hearts and willing hands – and bless every heart that shares in this gift.

May multitudes here be won to Christ, that when our Lord and Savior returns, many will be gathered home.

To the glory of God, our Father, by whose favor we have built this house; to the honor of Jesus the Christ, the Son of the living God and our Savior; to the praise of the Holy Spirit, source of life and light,

We dedicate this house and furnishings.

For worship in prayer and song; for the ministry of the Word; for the observances of the holy ordinances,

We dedicate this house.

To the sanctification of the family; to the training and nurture of childhood; to the inspiration of youth and the salvation of all,

We dedicate this house.

To the help of the needy; to the promotion of brotherhood; to the extension of the kingdom through the whole wide world,

We dedicate this house.

Dedication of Kitchen14

(Leader) The book of Acts is the recorded history of the actions of the apostles and the early church. One striking characteristic of the early church is their willingness to share meals together. Acts 2:42-44 says, “They devoted themselves to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common.”

Such meals promoted the welfare and growth of the individual believer as well as the good of the early church. Surely it is not surprising that this tradition continues in the church of today. Therefore, we are privileged to formally dedicate to the ministry of the __________________ (name of church) a fully-equipped kitchen.

To the exaltation and worship of God through fellowship meals,

(Congregation) We dedicate this kitchen.

To feed the physically and spiritually hungry,

We dedicate this kitchen.

To promote love and unity,

We dedicate this kitchen in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Unison Prayer: Father, we are thankful for the privileges we have to gather together in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to share fellowship meals. This new kitchen that has been provided to us by Your sovereign hand will greatly aid us as we seek to promote love and unity among the members and friends of this congregation. May it be said of us that we, too, devote ourselves to “the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” And may you add to our “number daily those who are being saved.” Therefore, we ask that you use this new kitchen to bring glory to your matchless name and enable us to use it as an instrument of your grace and mercy. We ask in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Accessibility Lift Dedication15

(Leader) There are many in our society who face special challenges. Sometimes one is challenged by being confined to a wheelchair; still others are challenged with the inability to move independently due to injury or age.

The church of God has been commissioned by Jesus Christ to make disciples of all the world. Therefore, his people are genuinely interested in helping the physically challenged cope with their disabilities and to introduce them to Christ as Savior. The modern era provides many wonderful mechanical devices that enable the church to minister to those with special needs.

Today, we are privileged to formally dedicate to the ministry of the ________________________ (name of church) an accessibility lift.

To the exaltation and worship of God through helping those with physical challenges,

(Congregation) We dedicate this accessibility lift.

To enable all people to come to this house of worship and Holy Communion,

We dedicate this accessibility lift.

To allow all people an opportunity to find Christ as Savior,

We dedicate this accessibility lift in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Unison Prayer: O God, Creator of all, we are reminded of your concern for those who face special challenges and of our privilege of ministering to them. Your Word says that your people are to “show respect for the elderly” and it also promises that those with physical disabilities who are trusting in Jesus as Lord and Savior will, “leap like a deer.” Truly you extend special love, mercy and grace toward those who face disabilities and expect your people to do the same. Therefore, we are truly grateful, O God, that you have blessed this church with an accessibility lift. May you use it to bring glory to your matchless name and enable us to use it as an instrument to help those with physical disabilities. We ask in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

HOLY COMMUNION

This is the most sacred and solemn service of the church, and should never be approached in a careless manner, or without serious thought and careful preparation.

Communion should not be a hurried supplement of another service, but should receive deliberate and thoughtful observance as its character rightly demands. Only then can it become a love feast to Christ, communicate its great lessons of truth and be of deep spiritual benefit to the believer, as was the intent of its establishment.

The Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion, Eucharist) reminds us of the depth of our sin, the plan of redemption, which cost Christ his life (atonement), and the wonderful love of God that is revealed in the person of Christ. To the conditionalist, it is full and overflowing with spiritual significance, profound philosophy and the essential doctrines relating to sin, punishment and salvation – symbolizing the mystery of human redemption.

The Service

If the Communion service follows the regular worship service of the church, one should attempt to keep it brief and without unnecessary preliminaries. A short introductory service, similar to the usual order, may be followed by a brief service of short testimonies and then Communion itself.

Or the entire service may be given over to the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. The introduction should remain brief. The biblical lesson or sermon should be appropriately related to the doctrines of communion. Some have found this a great time to collect a benevolent offering for the poor. The service is especially meaningful when it includes a time for reflection, commitment, testimonies and songs of praise. It is common for the service to conclude with the singing of a hymn and encouragement to enter the world to serve the risen Lord.

The Invitation

Our usual form: The Communion service is offered to all believers. Each one is given the privilege of sharing the Lord’s Supper. Therefore, everyone who confesses Jesus Christ as Lord is enthusiastically invited to participate in this memorial of his death, burial and resurrection.

The Administration

It is common for the pastor to begin the Communion service by calling the church to prayer, praying that God will sanctify the bread and the wine to its holy purpose, and to open up the hearts and minds of his people so they might see in the physical symbols something more than mere bread and wine.

Next, the pastor will uncover the bread and will give thanks for God’s wonderful gift of his Son, the true bread of life. He will usually break the bread while citing 1 Corinthians 11:23-24, or a similar passage from the Gospels, completing the quotation as he hands the plates to the deacons (one of which is first handed back to him so he might partake), and then they are passed to all who desire to share in Communion. As the deacons return, the pastor takes the plates from their hands, and after they are seated serves each one of them in turn.

After waiting for everyone to take and eat the bread, the pastor will pour the wine, or, if already poured into cups, will uncover them and give thanks for the atoning blood, the great expiation of human guilt in the cross and sacrifice of Jesus. Then, while reciting the words of 1 Corinthians 11:25-26, he will hand the cups to the deacons, so that the wine will be passed to the church body in the same manner as the bread.

After this, an offering for the poor may be taken, while the pastor quotes selected Scripture passages selected for this purpose.

Scriptures Regarding the Lord’s Supper

Matthew 26:17-30

Now on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying to him, “Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?” And he said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, “My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.”’” So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover.

When evening had come, he sat down with the twelve. Now as they were eating, he said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and each of them began to say to him, “Lord, is it I?” He answered and said, “He who dipped his hand with me in the dish will betray me. The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.” Then Judas, who was betraying him, answered and said, “Rabbi, is it I?” He said to him, “You have said it.”

And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.” Then he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. For this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.” And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Luke 22:14-23

When the hour had come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. Then he said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” Then he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”

Likewise he also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is shed for you. But behold, the hand of my betrayer is with me on the table. And truly the Son of Man goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed!” Then they began to question among themselves, which of them it was who would do this thing.

1 Corinthians 10:14-17

Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. I speak as to wise men; judge for yourselves what I say. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we, though many, are one bread and one body; for we all partake of that one bread.

1 Corinthians 11:23-32

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which he was betrayed took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is my body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same manner he also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till he comes.

Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world.16

A More Formal Service

In case a more formal service is desired, the following, or selected parts of it, may be useful.

The Invitation

At the end of the morning service, and usually following the sermon, the pastor may say:

Dear friends, we have come to the most sacred and solemn of all of the church’s services, the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper. This is not our table, but his. We must, therefore, come to it in faith, repentance and love, and with a holy desire to be fed by the Bread of Life.

The precious benefits of his table are offered freely to those who are truly sorry for their sins, those who long to be free from the burden of their sins and to anyone who puts their trust in Christ. All who are a part of the household of faith, regardless of name or creed, profess their love and commitment to Christ and their neighbors, are encouraged to share in this communion and memorial of his cross and sacrifice.

The people should stand at this point and be encouraged to sing.

A Communion Hymn

During the song, the elders and/or deacons should make their way to the front of the sanctuary and take their places with the pastor. Following the song, and while the congregation is still standing, the pastor may choose to lead the entire church body in reciting the Apostles’ Creed.

The Communion table should be prepared in advance displaying the bread in convenient dishes and the wine in cups and covered appropriately. The pastor should rise at this point, and after uncovering the emblems and laying the cloth aside, read to the people the words of institution:

Dear friends in Christ, listen to the words written by the apostle Paul regarding our Lord’s Supper:

“For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which he was betrayed took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is my body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same manner he also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till he comes.

Other biblical texts might include: Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; and Luke 22:14-18.

The pastor may then offer the following prayer:

Dear Lord, you know the condition of our hearts and the very thoughts in our minds. With you, Lord, there are no secrets. May the Holy Spirit guide us as we approach your throne with boldness based on the redeeming work of Christ and in so doing, magnify and glorify your name. Amen.

Then, the pastor, continuing, may offer unto God the praises of the people saying:

May all glory and praise be given to you, O God, for the redeeming work of Christ on the cross, making a once and for all atonement and sacrifice for our sins and the sins of the whole world. As a vital part of this gospel story, you have commanded us to share a perpetual memorial of the work of Christ until he returns. In view of your faithfulness, we confess you with our mouth and hearts saying:

The pastor may himself recite the following, or it may be sung by the choir, or said or sung by the people, as a response.

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Hosts; Heaven and earth are full of thy glory; Glory be unto thee, O Lord most high.

The pastor will continue with the prayer of consecration, either in his own words or the following:

Dear God, help us now to offer and present ourselves, our minds and bodies to be a reasonable, holy, and living sacrifice acceptable through Christ Jesus. Sanctify these emblems, the bread and the wine, and bless this ordinance to the praise of your glorious grace (Ephesians 1:6).

Here the pastor (or one of the elders, if he is ordained) standing behind the table, and taking some of the bread into his hands, shall break it into the plates, and pass them to the deacons, meanwhile reciting the following:

We read in the New Testament that on the night of his betrayal, Jesus took the bread; and when he had blessed it, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, as I, your pastor (or elder), ministering in his name, share the bread with you.

The deacons, having received the bread from the pastor, will serve the pastor, the elders and then the congregation. When everyone has been served, and the deacons have returned to their places at the front of the sanctuary, the pastor or one of the elders will serve them. Then the pastor, holding a piece of bread in his hand, will say:

The Savior said, “Take and eat, this is my body. Do this in remembrance of me.”

At this time, the pastor along with the entire congregation will eat the bread of our Lord. Then the pastor (or one of the elders, if he is ordained), standing behind the table, will uncover the trays and pass them to the deacons, while saying:

Following the supper, the Lord took the cup of wine and passed it to his disciples, as I, ministering in his name, share it with you.

The deacons, having received the wine from the pastor, will serve the pastor and the elders first and then the members of the congregation. When everyone has been served, and the deacons have returned to their places at the front of the sanctuary, the pastor or one of the elders will serve them. Then the pastor, holding the cup in his hand will say:

The Savior said, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

At this time, the pastor, along with the entire congregation, will drink the cup of our Lord. When the communion service is completed, the pastor will cover the table again with the cloth. If there is to be a communion offering, the pastor will say:

Let us remember the words of our Lord, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Then the deacons will receive the offerings of the congregation while the pastor reads Scripture or recites other appropriate readings. When the deacons have completed the collection of the offering, the pastor will lead the entire congregation in a prayer of thanksgiving.

Then the pastor will call for a fellowship hymn. One stanza of “Blest Be the Tie That Binds” is always appropriate. Then the pastor will dismiss the congregation with the benediction.

May the God of peace, who raised Jesus from the dead, lead and empower you to do his will, creating in you that which is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ; to the praise of his glorious grace.

PUBLIC WORSHIP

The public worship of God is of utmost importance for the Christian. It is the corporate act of a congregation of believers in offering their common adoration, praise, thanksgiving and prayer to God, thereby entering into a joint experience of fellowship with him. Such an experience should characterize all meetings for religious purposes. By common consent, however, the regular Sunday services and the celebration of the ordinances contribute primarily to this end, and are in a special sense worship services, while other meetings exist principally for other purposes. The Sunday morning service is usually of a more serious and reverent nature, while the Sunday evening service possesses a more informal, spirited and evangelistic flavor.

The Minister and Worship

Christian people should cultivate the art of worship. In certain religious groups – particularly those that have reacted most strongly against “ritualism” – there is an unfortunate tendency to irreverent and sometimes unbecoming behavior in the house of God. This cannot be too strongly condemned. Christian people should remember that the apostolic injunction, “Let everything be done decently and in order,” applies specifically to the conduct of worship in the house of God.

Leadership of public worship is one of the important functions of the pastor. He should make a careful study of the principles of worship, familiarizing himself with the best evangelical books on the subject. Not only should he be a competent leader of worship services; he should also lead his people into a deeper appreciation and experience of the values of true worship. He should cultivate the art not only for himself but also for his congregation.

Suggested Orders of Morning Worship

Order One

Organ Prelude

The Doxology

The Invocation, closing with the Lord’s Prayer

Hymn

The Scripture Lesson

The Prayer

Special Music

Announcements

Offering

Hymn

Sermon

Hymn

Benediction

Order Two

Organ Prelude

Call to Worship

Coronation Hymn (first stanza)

Invocation

The Lord’s Prayer

Responsive Reading

Hymn

Scripture Lesson

Prayer of Intercession (pastor)

Choral Response

Announcements

Offering (announced by offertory sentence and preceded by offertory prayer)

The Doxology (as an act of praise, the people standing)

Special Music

Sermon

Benediction

Order Three

Announcements (displayed through the use of Powerpoint) as people enter the sanctuary

Musical Prelude (A praise team sings worship songs or music is played by the pianist or organist)

Welcome & Greetings

A Hymn of Praise

Prayer

The Morning Offering & Doxology

Praise and Worship Choruses

Drama Presentation (A sketch relating to the message)

Morning Message

Closing Hymn/Chorus & Prayer

Calls to Worship

1. But the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him (Hab. 2:20).

2. Come let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come and extol him with music and song (Psalm 95:1-2).

3. Surely the Lord is in this place. This is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise (Gen. 28:16-17).

4. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations (Psalm 100:4-5).

5. Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name (Psalm 105:1-2).

6. I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Come, let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker: let us worship in his holy name (Psalm 122:1; 95:6).

7. I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together (Psalm 34:1-3).

8. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise (Psalm 51:10-11, 15).

9. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple (Psalm 19:14; 27:4).

10. Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care (Psalm 95:6-7).

11. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is a spirit and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth (John 4:23-24; Psalm 96:9).

For an Evening Service

From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised. Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord who minister by night in the house of the Lord (Psalm 113:3; 134:1).

For a Communion Sunday

For Christ, our Passover Lamb, has been sacrificed. Therefore let us keep the festival, not with the old yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth (1 Cor. 5:7-8).

The Apostle’s Creed17

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 Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; he descended into hell, the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on 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 Ghost; The holy catholic church, The communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father in heaven, hollowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

Offertory Sentences

1. Freely ye have received, freely give (Matt. 10:8).

2. Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift (2 Cor. 9:15). Let us gratefully worship him with our offerings.

3. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7).

4. Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds, and praise your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16).

5. Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand (1 Chron. 29:14).

6. Remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

7. Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me (Matt 25:40).

8. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the day approaching (Gal. 6:10; Heb. 10:25).

9. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income (1 Cor. 16:2).

10.Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. If it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully (Col. 3:23; Rom. 12:8).

11.Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it (Mal. 3:10).

Benedictions

1. The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace (Num. 6:24-26).

2. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you (1 Cor. 16:23).

3. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Cor. 13:14).

4. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen (Phil. 4:23).

5. Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love (Eph. 6:24).

6. May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen (Heb. 13:20-21).

7. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:7).

8. Peace to all of you who are in Christ (1 Pet. 5:14).

9. To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy – to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power, authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forever more (Jude 24-25).

SELECTED POEMS

Hymn of Dedication

Father, here a temple in thy name we build;

Ever may thy purpose in it be fulfilled.

Circled by thy kindness, and thy smile above,

May it stand for worship, service, faith and love.

Here may all who enter, feel thy presence near,

Here the Holy Spirit bring a message clear.

Of thy Son, beloved, child and youth be taught;

Measured by his standard, character be wrought.

May the sad find comfort, weary ones find rest,

Here the sick and lonely be with friendship blest;

Strength for those who falter, faith for all who doubt,

May thy love, O Father, bind this place about.

-Elizabeth E. Scantlebury

Blessed Are They That Mourn

Oh, deem not they are blessed alone

Whose lives a peaceful tenor keep!

The Power who pities man hath shown

A blessing for the eyes that weep.

The light of smiles shall fill again

The lids that overflow with tears;

And weary hours of woe and pain

Are promises of happier years.

There is a day of sunny rest

For every dark and troubled night;

And grief may bide an evening guest,

But joy shall come with early light.

For God hath marked each sorrowing day,

And numbered every secret tear,

And Heaven’s long age of bliss shall pay

For all his children suffer here.

-William C. Bryant

Someday

Some day all doubt and mystery

Will be made clear;

The threatening clouds which now we see

Will disappear.

Some day our weary feet will rest

In sweet content,

And we will know how we were blest,

By what was sent.

And looking back with clearer eyes

O’er life’s short span

Will see with wondering, glad surprise

God’s perfect plan.

And knowing that the path we went

Was God’s own way,

Will understand his wise intent

Some day, some day.

-Anonymous

Ancient Hymn to a Dying Christian

Sleep on, beloved, sleep and take thy rest;

Lay down they head upon they Savior’s breast.

We love thee well, but Jesus loves thee best – Good night.

Calm is they slumber as an infant’s sleep,

But thou shalt wake no more to toil and weep,

Thine is a perfect rest, secure and deep – Good night.

Until the shadow from the earth is cast,

Until he gathers in his sheaves at last,

Until the twilight gloom is overpast – Good night.

Until the Easter glory lights the skies,

Until the dead in Jesus shall arise,

And he shall come, but not in lowly guise – Good night.

Until made beautiful by love divine,

Thou in the likeness of the Lord shall shine,

And he shall bring that glorious crown of thine – Good night.

Only “good night,” beloved, not farewell!

A little while and all his saints shall dwell

In hallowed union, indivisible – Good night.

Until we meet again before his throne,

Clothed in the spotless robes he gives his own,

Until we know even as we are known – Good night.

-Second Advent in Poetry and Song

It Is Not Far

It is not far, I know,

To where God lives.

Sometimes I see his glory shine

Beyond the nearest hill,

And in the hush of some sweet moment

I have heard, but faintly,

Sounds that must have been his voice.

It is not far, I know

For oftentimes he comes

To spend a moment or an hour with me;

And though I have not seen his face,

The fingers of my heart

Have often touched his hand.

-James Asa Johnson

If There Had Been No Storm

If there had been no storm

There could have been no music of the rain,

No rhythm of the trees

Bending before the wind;

There could have been no lightening flash,

Giving the heavens a momentary loveliness,

No awe-inspiring thundertones.

If there had been no storm

The rainbow would have been undreamed,

And that first gentle moment of new calm

Could not have brought assurance to your heart.

-James Asa Johnson

Some Time We’ll Understand

Not now, but in the coming years,

It may be in the better land,

We’ll read the meaning of our tears,

And there, some time, we’ll understand.

We’ll catch the broken threads again,

And finish what we here began,

Heaven will the mysteries explain,

And the, ah, then, we’ll understand.

God knows the way, he holds the key,

He guides us with unerring hand;

Some time with tearless eyes we’ll see;

Yes, there, up there, we’ll understand.

-Maxwell N. Cornelius

No Man Is An Island

No man is an island, entire of itself;

every man is a piece of the continent,

a part of the main…

any man’s death diminishes me,

because I am involved in mankind;

and therefore never send to know

for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.

-John Donne

Not in Vain

If I can stop one heart from breaking;

I shall not live in vain;

If I can ease one life the aching,

Or cool one pain,

Or help one fainting robin

Unto his nest again,

I shall not live in vain.

-Emily Dickenson

The Complete Poems of Emily Dickenson, Thos. H. Johnson, Ed., Little, Brown and Co.

What God Hath Promised

God hath not promised skies always blue,

Flower-strewn pathways all our lives through;

God hath not promised sun without rain,

Joy without sorrow, peace without pain.

But God hath promised strength for the day,

Rest for the labor, light for the way,

Grace for the trials, help from above,

Unfailing sympathy, undying love.

-Annie Johnson Flint

Come, Ye Disconsolate

Come, ye disconsolate, where’er ye languish;

Come to the mercy-seat, fervently kneel;

Here bring your wounded hearts, here tell your anguish;

Earth has no sorrow that Heav’n cannot heal.

Joy of the desolate, light of the staying,

Hope of the penitent, fadeless and pure,

Here speaks the Comforter, tenderly saying,

“Earth has no sorrow that Heav’n cannot cure.”

Here see the bread of life; see waters flowing

Forth from the throne of God, pure from above;

Come to the feast of love; come, ever knowing

Earth has no sorrow but Heav’n can remove.

-Thomas Moore, altered by Thomas Hastings

The Sound of the Trumpet

He had walked an extra mile that day

To help a stricken brother.

He was weary and sick himself they say;

But he spent all his strength for another.

As they helped him to bed he said with a sigh,

“I have finished my race. I am ready to die.”

Wait! What is that light that fills the sky –

And that might sound? ‘Tis the trumpet!

She had cleaned and cooked for a lifetime it seemed,

For many depended upon her.

Now she had found rest for which she had dreamed

As she tried her Savior to honor.

They wrap her body in a shroud;

And their hearts are heavy and heads are bowed.

Then they hear a sound that is clear and loud

And she hears it too! ‘Tis the trumpet!

There are bones in every valley and rill –

Dry bones of the saints long gone.

In every country – on every hill –

A sudden upheaval! ‘Tis dawn!

And a loud clear sound is heard by the dead;

And the saints are joining their Lord in the air

At the mighty sound of the trumpet!

-Miriam Snow Priebe

Seeing Through the Fog

Fog drifted in and swirled about,

Covering all the landscape,

So when today I started out,

I only sensed the land’s shape.

Ahead there loomed a spectre tall

I strained my eyes to see

A hazy outline – that was all.

Yet, I knew it was a tree.

Around me were more shadowy things –

Some short, some long and low.

I knew they had to be the flowers

I had planted long ago.

So, without seeing, I walked on,

Knowing what grew around me.

The fog was dense; but I could sense

Familiar shapes beside me.

I could walk by faith, knowing the road,

Though mist obscured my way.

I must remember my walk in the fog

When next I kneel to pray.

Though I can scarcely see ahead,

I know that God is there.

By faith I’ll walk where he has led

Trusting his love and care.

-Miriam Snow Priebe

Dedication Poems and Prayers

Lord, we present our child to you;

Guide our child, your will to do.

Bless each stage through all of life,

Through times of joy and times of strife.

May your strength be his/hers always,

Through times of weakness, toilsome days.

Comfort, calm and bring him/her peace;

We do not ask a life of ease.

Bring this child into your fold;

Always in your strong arms hold.

This dear child we give to you;

Grand us, Lord, your will to do.

Give us wisdom, give us heart;

To guide our child, your love impart.

Help us teach him/her of your grace,

That you are present in every place.

As we present our child we pray,

Keep our family in your way.

Amen.

-Stephen M. Ruberg

An Offering To Jesus

As Jesus bid them bring each little one,

As Hannah, Elizabeth and Mary have done.

We’ll bring this child before you, Lord,

That through his/her life you’ll be adored.

Grant him/her a life of grace and strength,

That through his/her life your glory will shine

May your presence his/her life refine.

Keep this your child within your fold

To face all evil and be bold.

Keep him/her always in your way,

To give you praises every day.

To him who is the greatest love,

We offer this child, O Father above.

Amen.

A Blessed Parent

Blessed is/are the parent(s)

Who guides his/her/their child into the right.

Who ever leads,

To guide his/her/their children to the light.

Who ever guides,

To the only water that is living.

Who ever stands,

To make a place of rest and calm.

Who ever comforts,

To shield, protect and ever hold.

Who ever teaches,

To ever strengthen and endure

Who ever anoints,

To know God’s gentle love and care.

Who ever shows,

To live a life for God above.

-Stephen M. Ruberg

Parent’s Vows

We vow before God to always show

This precious child, God’s love to know.

Through every word and every deed

To trust god for his/her every need.

We vow before men to always teach,

To be an example, your will to reach.

To guide in paths, in your way lead,

And on your Word to always feed.

We make a vow unto our child

To be shepherd, gentle and mild.

To offer mercy, pardon and grace,

To find God’s love in every place.

We vow to one another to love,

Our child as does our Father above.

To shield, protect and ever show

That there is only one way to go.

We vow to offer a sacrifice,

Of time and talents, we’ll pay the price.

To teach this child about God’s way

And honor him through every day.

A Child’s Blessing

Our hearts rejoice O Lord, today,

We present this child unto your way.

Bless this child through all his/her life.

Keep him/her safe through days of strife.

Bless him/her through times of great need,

Ever comfort and protect, we humbly plead.

Bless him/her to know your great salvation.

Grant to him/her your confirmation.

Bless his/her future life’s discretion,

Ever guide and give protection.

Bless the parents and the friends,

May their love know no ends.

Bless this life with your we share,

We submit this one unto your care.

Amen.

CHURCH AND CONFERENCE LETTERS

Letter of Dismission

The Advent Christian Church of _____________________ to the ________________________ Church of _______________________.

Greetings:

This certifies that ______________________ is a member of this church in good and regular standing. As such, ______________is at his/her own request hereby dismissed and affectionately recommended to the fellowship and care of ______________________ church of _____________________ and when received by it, of which you will please inform us, his/her membership with this church will cease.

By order and in behalf of the church.

______________________ Clerk.

(Place and Date)

(This letter is valid for six months only.)

Letter of Dismission

To any Christian Church,

Greetings:

This is to certify, that _____________________ is at present a member of _________________ in good standing, and at his/her request, is hereby dismissed from us for the purpose of uniting elsewhere. When __________________ shall have so united, and due notification shall have been received, his/her connection with us will cease. May the blessings of God rest on _________________ and you.

By vote of church _______________________

(Date)

Attest: _________________________ Pastor

(This letter is valid for six months from date.)

Letter of Notification

To the __________________ Church in _______________________.

Greetings:

Dear Brethren:

This certifies that _____________________ was duly received by letter from you to membership in the __________________ church.

______________________

Church Clerk

(Place and Date)

A Traveling Letter

It is sometimes quite convenient when a church member is leaving home for extended travel to have with him credentials from his home church to be used when necessary. The following form is suggested:

To Whom it May Concern:

This certifies that ___________________ is a worthy member of the __________________ church of _______________ and is affectionately commended to the Christian fellowship of all who love our Lord Jesus Christ.

______________________ Pastor

______________________ Clerk

Date ______________________

Conference Letter

From the ___________________ Advent Christian Conference, to the ________________ Advent Christian Conference.

Greetings:

“Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord.”

This is to certify, that _______________________ is an acceptable and worthy member of this conference, and at his/her own request, because of a change in his/her field of labor (or residence) is, by vote of this conference in regular session assembled, given this letter of transfer that he/she may duly unite with your conference.

We commend him/her to your hearty confidence and most cordial fellowship, and we pray that both you and he/she may be richly blessed in the work of God, while waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Please notify the undersigned when he/she has united with you, and his/her membership with us will be terminated.

Yours in the Fellowship and Hope of the Gospel,

_____________________ Secretary

Date __________________________

Address ____________________________________

Letter of Notification

To the ______________________ Conference,

Dear Brethren:

This letter certifies that ___________________ was duly received by letter from you to membership in the _________________________ Conference.

_________________________

Conference Clerk

(Place and Date)

1 From Forms by Dr. Herrick Johnson, used by permission.

2 Throughout this marriage form the letter G will represent groom and the letter B will represent bride.

3 From The Pilgrim Pastor’s manual, revised.

4 Adapted from the Book of Common Worship, and used by permission of the Presbyterian Board of Publication.

5 At this time in the service, the couple, which is usually on the bottom level of a multilevel platform, will switch places with the minister. The minister will now take their place with his back to the congregation and the couple will move to the top level facing each other and in clear view of all attendees. This approach is also beneficial to the photographer.

6 There are two views concerning the lighting and blowing out of candles during the unity candle ceremony:
1.One view suggests that after the two outside candles are used to light the center candle, they are blown out. The symbolism in this act suggests that the couple are now one in their purpose before God. 2.The second view suggests that the two candles used to light the unity candle are not put out to suggest that both partners still have a rich heritage to remember and appreciate as they approach the building of their new life together. The minister would be wise to suggest the two views and allow the couple to make their choice.

7A service in which a person who has accepted Christ as their personal Savior, demonstrates publicly their commitment to him. The service itself symbolically represents the death, burial and resurrection of Christ, and new life for the believer.

8 This committal is from Dr. Sanderson’s Pocket Manual for Funerals. Used by permission.

9 Though Advent Christians do not believe in the platonic idea of the “soul” as immortal and fully functional apart from a body, it is appropriate to speak of body and soul (personality) as distinct, in some sense (Cf. Matthew 10:28).

10 Material provided by Rev. Tom Warner.

11 Committing a deceased person’s spirit into God’s hands does not imply that he is saved. It acknowledges that only God can bring a human spirit through death into resurrection. For the unbeliever, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” and be raised for judgment (Heb. 10:31; Rtv. 20:11-15). Tactfully mentioning the judgment and the need to be prepared for that will help the minister avoid giving false hope to his hearers.

12 Note: The president of the conference presides at the service, the other parts being taken by members of the ministerial committee. The conference secretary may read the qualifying documents and present the ordination certificate. The preacher is usually chosen by the ministerial committee in consultation with the candidate. The mechanics of the service would be carefully worked out beforehand, in order that the service will run smoothly and without confusion.

13 Pilgrim Pastor’s Manual, used by permission.

14 Written and provided by David W. Davis.

15 Written and provided by David W. Davis.

16 Other pastors prefer to be served by one of the deacons after they have returned from serving the congregation and just prior to sharing the symbol in the Communion service.

17 By general consent the Apostle’s Creed is accepted as an expression of the historic facts that underlie the Christian faith. Though not of apostolic origin, this is the earliest formulated Christian creed.