Each of these confession and pardon sequences is designed to be used as a set, following the shape of the Scripture or confession that is its source. In each case, a congregational prayer of confession should be supplied as indicated. Non-bold parts are intended for leaders; bold parts, for the congregation. Alternately, the leader may speak the entire text.
These words from Scripture and the confessions may be used as Declarations of Forgiveness. They are appropriately spoken from the baptismal font, perhaps while lifting water from the font. Non-bold parts are intended for leaders; bold parts, for the congregation. Alternately, the leader may speak the entire text (with the exception of selections from the catechisms).
These words from Scripture and the confessions may be used as Calls to Confession. They are appropriately spoken from the baptismal font, perhaps after pouring water into the font. Non-bold parts are intended for leaders; bold parts, for the congregation. Alternately, the leader may speak the entire text (with the exception of selections from the catechisms).
These words from Scripture and the confessions may be used as Prayers of Confession of Sin. Non-bold parts are intended for leaders; bold parts, for the congregation. Alternately, these texts may be spoken entirely in unison.
These sentences of Scripture and excerpts from the confessions may be used as Calls to Worship. Non-bold parts are intended for leaders; bold parts, for the congregation.
These greetings come from the opening words of the New Testament epistles and the book of Revelation. They are appropriate for use at the beginning of worship.
While this 26 page basic resource manual was last updated in 2000 and is now out of print, this partnership between PSMIN, the then PC(USA) Office of Human Services, and Pathways to Promise contains much timeless information for getting started in this ministry on a congregational level. Worship aids and education models for the congregation are included.
The covenant relationship between the Korean Presbyterian Church in America and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), approved by the 218th general assembly (2008) and ratified by a majority of presbyteries in 2009
This essay explores the debate over “open table” practice -- inviting persons who are not baptized to participate in the Lord’s Supper. The author examines the understandings of the gospel and the church behind each position, offering a new way of thinking about these questions.
Have you heard the good news? Host a public reading of the Gospel of Mark in your congregation during lectionary Year B (Nov. 27, 2011 – Nov. 25, 2012). The earliest and shortest of the four gospels, Mark offers a compact, concise, and compelling account of “the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). It takes less than two hours to read the whole Gospel of Mark out loud. By the gift of the Holy Spirit, this can be a life-changing, faith-shaping, disciple-making encounter with the living Word of God.