Welcome & Announcements
Wendy Beistline, Elder

Passing the Peace

Gathering Music
“Here in This Place”

Call to Worship
Chuck Sadler, Liturgist
Leader: You, O God, made the springs into rivers that flow between the mountains. All the animals drink their fill from them, and the wild donkeys quench their thirst.
People: Beside them the birds of the air make their nests; among the branches they lift their
voice.
Leader: From your dwelling on high, you water the mountains; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your works.
People: You make grass grow for the cattle, and plants to serve humankind; that they may bring
forth food from the earth,
Leader: wine to gladden human hearts, oil to make the face shine, and bread to strengthen the human heart.
People: The trees of the Lord are well supplied, the cedars of Lebanon that you planted,
Leader: in which the birds build their nests, while the stork makes the fir trees its dwelling.
People: The high hills belong to the mountain goats, and the stony cliffs are a refuge for the
badgers.
Leader: All of them look to you to give them their food in due season.
People: You give it to them; they gather it; you open your hand, and they are filled with good
things.
Leader: When you hide your face, they are terrified; when you take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.
People: You send forth your Spirit, and they are created; and so you renew the face of the earth.

Song of Praise
“All Creatures of Our God and King”

Invocation
ALL: Source and sustainer of life, we cherish the myriad works of your hands. Water, earth, and sky are yours, as are all their inhabitants, wild and tame. We thank you for creatures that nourish and serve us, befriend, enrich, entertain, and protect us. May we, who are made in your image, care for them well. And may your groaning yet wondrous creation rally and thrive, revealing to all who come after us your wise, redemptive, transforming love; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Sharing our Faith with our Young Disciples

Old Testament Reading
Genesis 1:1, 20-28
Chuck Sadler, Liturgist

Special Music
“Bewaa” Dagara Recreational Music
Wil Angliss

Reflection
"Consider the Birds, Bless the Beasts."
Pastor Greg Larsen

Reflection Reading
Matthew 6:25-34

Special Music
“Gyil Yeru” by Bernard Soglinsog Woma
Wil Angliss

Service of Holy Communion

The Blessing of the Animals
ALL: Almighty and everlasting God, Creator of all things and giver of all life, let your blessing be upon all these animals. May our relationship with them mirror your love, and our care for them be an example of your bountiful mercy. Grant the animals health and peace. Strengthen us to love and care for them as we strive to imitate the love of Jesus Christ our Lord and your servant Francis. Amen.

Offering

Prayer of Dedication & Thanksgiving
ALL: God, we cannot deceive you with the appearance of generosity. You know how we manage the wealth entrusted to our care. Help us to know the joy of sharing from the abundance you provide. Help us to trust when we feel we do not have enough. We give thanks that you enable us to be givers, not just receivers. May what we offer here provide a helpful ministry to many. May what we offer to our families, friends, and co-laborers tomorrow also be blessed as ministry. Amen.

Parting Song of Praise
“Hear Our Praises”

Benediction
Pastor: Compassion, creativity, and joy are ours through Jesus Christ. May the Holy Spirit move us to preserve and enhance life on earth, giving clear witness to the life-giving purpose of our creator. Go out into God’s world. Live in peace with one another and with all God’s creatures. Beloved, ... and may God be with you.
People: And also with you.
ALL: Amen.

Benediction Music Response
“Hear Our Praises” (Chorus Reprise)

Exit Music
"Kyebekube" Traditional Ugandan Melody
Wil Angliss