St. Thomas Community Presbyterian Church St. Thomas Community Presbyterian Church
St. Thomas Community Presbyterian Church is live
"The Worst Kept Secret Ever." - Worship Service August 23rd, 2026
Rev. Greg Larsen
Rev. Greg Larsen
Sunday, August 23, 2026
Chat
Bulletin
Playlist
Loading chat...
Welcome and Announcements
Terry Urwin, Elder
Passing of the Peace
Gathering Music
“Beautiful Things”
Call to Worship
Rae Anne White, Liturgist
Leader: Our help is from God, who made heaven and earth. Come to worship the One who answers our prayers.
People: If God were not on our side, we could not live. If God were not for us, we would be swept away.
Leader: God has gifted each one of us in unique ways. In our variety, we complement one another.
People: We rejoice in God’s love and faithfulness. Bless be our God, whose word is true.
Leader: In thankfulness, we bring our joyous songs. We are here to pay attention to God’s instructions.
People: We are here, seeking to discern God’s will. We are open to God’s transforming Spirit.
Hymn of Praise #317
“In Christ There Is No East or West”
Invocation
ALL: God beyond our knowing, we believe that you care for humble people who seek to follow your Word more than for those who are pretentious and proud in places of power. You have protected your people when they were surrounded by trouble. You have provided a way of escape in the midst of oppression. Your love never fails. Come, Holy One, to transform us. Work within and among us to renew our minds and build community. Nurse us into the health you intend for all your children. You are our help and our hope. Amen.
Sharing our Faith with our Young Disciples
Old Testament Reading
Isaiah 51:1-6
Rae Anne White, Liturgist
Special Music
“Grace”
Terri Lyon
Reflection
"The Worst Kept Secret Ever"
Pastor Greg Larsen
Reflection Reading
Matthew 16:13-20
Music Meditation
Dr. Alex Zakirov
Sharing of our Joys and Concerns
Pastoral Prayer & The Lord’s Prayer
Prayer of Dedication
ALL: Receive our offering, gracious God. As an expression of our thankfulness. In your church, we are privileged to cultivate the dimensions of our lives that give meaning and purpose to all we do. Here we become aware that the greatest gifts we receive are not material, and we learn how best to use the particular gifts you give us. At the same time, you show us how our material advantages can help others. May many be blessed through our sharing of these offerings and our sharing of ourselves. Amen.
Parting Hymn - #726
“Will You Come and Follow Me” (The Summons)
Benediction
Pastor: Serve the world as people transformed by God. Let others know God’s mercy and forgiveness.
People: We seek to live as Jesus taught. We seek to embody trust in God and love of all.
Pastor: Daily God renews our energy and confirms our gifts. In Christ we are drawn away from conformity to the world.
People: Our agenda is to discern and do God’s will. We aim to use well the gifts God has given.
Pastor: Remember that God is on our side. God call us into community with one another.
People: In Christ, there are no enemies. We recognize all people as God’s children.
Pastor: Beloved, ... and may God be with you.
People: And also with you.
ALL: Amen.
Benediction Music Response
“Beautiful Things” (Reprise)