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Using Other Texts in a Service

Second Order of Service

Featured: Litanies and Affirmations

This service uses a litany as a responsive opening reading. A litany punctuates a series of statements with a simple congregational refrain, a literary device that can create a chant-like effect for the speakers. Through simple repetition, this litany emphasizes the theme of gratitude, which the hymn will intensify.

Near the end of the service, a unison affirmation functions not only as the congregation's blessing on the offering (which in other services might be followed by a sung doxology or by words of dedication by the minister) but also as a statement of resolve and gratitude. The minister's benediction blesses the congregation, which then sings a chant in response to close the service.

Prelude

Please rise

* Opening Words - Read Responsively

For our community gathered here, for the spirit that called us together and drew us to this place:
     We give thanks this day.

For moments we have shared with others; for times when we have reached out across barriers of distance and fear; for times when others have reached out to us; for moments when we have discovered another along our path:
     We give thanks this day.

For this community of celebration and growth, introspection and solitude, and for those moments of "that peace which passes all understanding":
     We give thanks this day.

For our gathering together out of distant places; for our weaving together out of many separate selves this hour of celebration and worship:
     We give thanks this day.
         -- Jane Mauldin, adapted

* Opening Hymn - SLT #21 - "For the beauty of the earth"

Please be seated

(Service continues)

Offering

Please rise

* Affirmation - Read in unison

With faith to face our challenges,
With love that casts out fear,
With hope to trust tomorrow,
We accept this day as the gift it is --
A reason for rejoicing.
         -- Gary Kowalski

* Benediction - SLT #713

Keep alert, stand firm in your faith; be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.
         -- 1 Corinthians 16:13 NRSV

* Sung Response - SLT #400 - "Shalom, havayreem!"
     Congregation joining hands

See the rest of this service

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