Sunday service for 5 October 2025
Sunday 5 October 2025 — NL4-6, youth
Gourock St. John’s Church of Scotland
Service prepared by Rev. Teri Peterson
Manse: 632143
Email: TPeterson (at) churchofscotland.org.uk
Email Charlene, Parish Assistant: CMitchell (at) churchofscotland.org.uk
Sanctuary Prelude Music (praise band)
Sanctuary Processional Hymn 533: Will You Come and Follow Me
Welcome and Announcements
We Gather As God’s Family (As the Bible is brought in, we stand and sing)
A family gathered in love,
striving for justice and joy,
blessing the broken-hearted,
and sharing the hope of God’s kingdom.
Call to Worship (anchor boys)
One: In this holy space, God speaks.
All: To young and old together, God’s word comes alive.
One: In this holy space, we listen.
All: Wondering together what God will do.
Sanctuary Hymn GWA42: God Welcomes All
Prayer (two voices – Brownies)
Together: Let us pray.
1: God who speaks,
2: we admit that sometimes we don’t want to hear.
1: God who calls,
2: we admit that sometimes we are too afraid to answer.
1: God who is always close to us,
2: we admit that sometimes we act like you’re far away and silent,
because then we can do what we want.
1: God who does a new thing,
2: we admit that sometimes we just want things to be like they have always been.
1: God who gives gifts and tasks to young and old,
2: we admit that sometimes we don’t want to give up our control to the next generation.
1: God who listens,
2: we admit that sometimes we aren’t sure how to speak, how to ask,
how to pray for a difference.
Together: Forgive us, God who loves,
forgive us for how we have failed,
and teach us to live faithfully as your people.
Amen.
Hymn 251: I, the Lord of Sea and Sky
Bible Story and Reflection: 1 Samuel 3.1-21
Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the Lord under Eli. The word of the Lord was rare in those days; visions were not widespread.
At that time Eli, whose eyesight had begun to grow dim so that he could not see, was lying down in his room; the lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was.
*Samuel is still a child, learning from Eli and also learning just by being in the holy space. No one told him he didn’t belong — in fact, it looks like the temple itself was also his bedroom! He was at home, comfortable in the house of God. but just being there didn’t mean he understood yet! It says that the word of the Lord was rare in those days, and that seems to be true even right there in the home and family of the priest.
Then the Lord called, “Samuel! Samuel!” and he said, “Here I am!” and ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he said, “I did not call; lie down again.” So he went and lay down. The Lord called again, “Samuel!” Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he said, “I did not call, my son; lie down again.” Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him. The Lord called Samuel again, a third time. And he got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’ ” So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
*It took Eli three times to realise that Samuel really was hearing something, and to finally figure out that he needed to teach Samuel what to do. How would Samuel have known that God could even speak? How would he have known what to say? Someone has to teach the next generation…so often we rely on them just being in a place, or picking it up somewhere else, but the adults who spend the most time with them are the ones who need to make sure to pass on the knowledge of how to listen for God, how to speak to God, how to worship God, how to serve God. These relationships that cross generations are how faithfulness gets passed down…but it only works if the grown ups realise their part and also do it!
Now the Lord came and stood there, calling as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
*Samuel did exactly what he had been taught! He was a good student, putting into practice what Eli taught him to say.
Then the Lord said to Samuel, “See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make both ears of anyone who hears of it tingle. On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. For I have told him that I am about to punish his house forever for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them. Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be expiated by sacrifice or offering forever.”
*What a scary message to receive…it’s a big deal, something way bigger than Samuel probably thought he could handle. He’s just a kid! And Eli’s sons must have been like big brothers to him — but they were doing really bad stuff, like stealing people’s offerings, and they wouldn’t stop, so they weren’t someone to look up to. God had big plans for Samuel though, and God knew that Samuel was capable of more than people usually think kids can do, and he understood more than people think kids understand. What if we recognised that God has big plans for young people? How would our community be different, if we trusted young people the way God trusts them? Kids — what would you think if God gave you a really big and really hard thing to do?
Samuel lay there until morning; then he opened the doors of the house of the Lord. Samuel was afraid to tell the vision to Eli. But Eli called Samuel and said, “Samuel, my son.” He said, “Here I am.” Eli said, “What was it that he told you? Do not hide it from me. May God do so to you and more also, if you hide anything from me of all that he told you.” So Samuel told him everything and hid nothing from him. Then he said, “It is the Lord; let him do what seems good to him.”
*Samuel had to teach his teacher, to share a really hard message. But Eli didn’t get Samuel into trouble for it, he trusted that if God had given this message to Samuel, then it must be for a reason. And he trusted that God’s ways would be good, even if it wasn’t that good for him personally. He allowed Samuel’s vision to be true, and stepped aside and made space for him to grow into his leadership role. Sometimes we grown ups think we have to hold on to our roles forever, or we have to be the ones who are always right. But Eli shows us that it is okay to trust God who raises up new leaders, and to do our part to make space for that next generation to take their place. We are not forever…our job is actually to do our best now and then to pass the baton.
As Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground. And all Israel from Dan to Beer-sheba knew that Samuel was a trustworthy prophet of the Lord. The Lord continued to appear at Shiloh, for the Lord revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the word of the Lord.
*what a change from the beginning of the story when God’s word was rare! Once Samuel learned from Eli how to listen to God, and once Eli allowed Samuel to grow into his potential, it turned out that the Lord was speaking often, and the word of God was spreading, and the whole country got the chance to hear God’s word. What a difference it makes when we learn from each other, listen to God, and make room for new leaders.
Dedication
Friends, you have been called by God: not to be perfect or all-knowing, but to be faithful, and to share your journey. For those of us who are older — we are called to pay attention to the experiences of the young people, and to pass on what we know of how to meet God, recognising that how God speaks to them may be different than to us, and may even involve difficult things. God is trusting them with big tasks, and we will need to learn to trust God’s judgment of their abilities. For those of us who are younger — we are called to learn to listen, both to God and to those who are teaching us about God. And we are also called to pick up some hard jobs that God has for us to do — God knows that we can do it, or else God wouldn’t give it to us, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy. You are being entrusted with sharing God’s love with others, making sure that people can see and hear God even though the world is crazy busy and chaotic, and also with carrying out the tasks that will build God’s kingdom here.
None of us are doing this alone. God is with us, even when we can’t hear him speaking. And also, God has placed us in community — Samuel had Eli and Eli had Samuel! We have each other, across the generations, to help each other grow and learn and to support each other as we try to be faithful in every age.
Grown ups:
…if you are in leadership on the session, a committee or task group, a prayer group,…
…if you have volunteered for anything this year, from reading to cooking to cleaning or helping with anything at all…
…if you have attended an event or group like bowl & blether, contact group, choir or band, one of the fun fellowship events we put on through the year, etc…
…if you have donated items or money to the ministry of St John’s…
You are a part of what God is doing here. Will you continue to listen to God’s leading and participate in God’s kingdom coming on earth as it is in heaven? Will you?
Will you pray for these children, and for these organisations that seek to serve young people? Will you? Will you do your best to be an example of faith, hope, and love, to always make choices based on your values, so that in your words and your actions, these children will see God’s blessing and God’s call to faithfulness, for them and for others? Will you? And will you, in your own life, attend to the purpose God has for you, seeking God in prayer and offering yourself in service, that you might be equipped for every good work? Will you?
Young people…
…
…smurfs/brownies/guides:You are children of God, loved and gifted, and I know you have been exploring your own beliefs and your place in the God’s world. As you grow and learn and discover what part of the body of Christ God has made you to be, will you do your best to take part in the work God is giving you to do? Will you?
…brownie promise
…BB boys: Do you promise to be a loyal member of the Boys Brigade, supporting the activities of the Company? Do you promise to do your best to follow Christ and his purpose, to be a blessing to others? Do you?
Let us pray. (Junior section)
Here we are, O God.
You brought us together today,
and we pray now you would quiet our minds and hearts,
help us to truly be here in this moment,
that we may hear what you have to say,
and be honest in what we have promised.
We thank you for this Church family you have created.
We thank you for the Boys Brigade and the Girl Guides,
for parents and teachers and leaders and officers.
Give us the courage to stick with you,
to keep listening even if the message is hard,
and to commit to your way every day, not only today.
Make us a blessing to your world.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen.
Hymn MP167: Give Me Oil In My Lamp (praise band)
Sanctuary Offering: Take It Easy (praise band)
*Offering Response: The Doxology (tune: Old Hundredth)
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Christ all creatures here below;
Praise Holy Spirit evermore;
Praise Triune God whom we adore.
Amen.
Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (two voices: Company Section / Guides)
1: We thank you, God, for revealing yourself
through your word
through your creation
through the people you place in our lives.
You are always on the move
and inviting us to join you in bringing your kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
2: So we are bold to pray for things to change, O God.
For the injustice that seems so normal to us
to come to an end,
for people and creation that have been used and abused
to experience healing and hope,
with peace and compassion taking the lead.
For those who have power to use their positions well,
to speak up for what is right, to work for the common good, to insist on change.
1: For those who have become too comfortable with the way things are
and for those who never fit into the boxes we insist on
to find themselves in a new world at last —
where there is room for everyone to be themselves,
where there is enough food and clean water to go around,
where we have the imagination to stretch to your possibilities.
2: For the generation that has worked hard for a long time
to do their best to pass on the best of what they’ve learned
and also to make space for the next generation to step into their place;
and for young people in our midst to bring forward what is useful
and to use their gifts to make your vision real in our days.
1: And where it is hard for those older to let go or to take responsibility for their failings,
where it is hard for those younger to untangle and appreciate the foundations on which they build,
we ask for your help, Lord,
to give us open minds and gracious hearts,
courageous wills and strong hope.
2: On the 5th day of the month we join our hearts as your St John’s family to pray:
For Clyde Presbytery, for its staff, congregations, ministers, elders, and members.
For the staff of St John’s: for the minister, the organist, and the parish assistant.
For the land, people, and governments of the nations of Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia, Czechia, and Poland.
1: We thank you for trusting us with big visions
and with challenging words,
things that seem beyond us and yet you believe in us anyway.
Speak your new world into being,
even here and today.
2: We ask in the name of Jesus
who taught us to pray together:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever.
Amen.
Sanctuary Hymn 703: National Anthem verses 1 & 3
Hymn GWA129: Build Your Kingdom Here (praise band)
Sending (anchor boys + Teri)
In a world where everything is changing, live with your ears open, your mind open, and your heart open to listen when God speaks, and to share God’s word in ways everyone can hear.
May the Spirit of God go above you to watch over you…may the Spirit of God go beside you to be your companion… may the Spirit of God go before you to show you the way, and behind you to push you into places you might not go if you thought you were alone. And may the Spirit of God go within you, to remind you that you are loved more deeply than you can possibly imagine. May the fire of God’s love burn brightly in you, and through you into the world. Go in peace. Amen.
Sung Benediction Response (John L Bell, tune Gourock St John’s)
Now may the Lord of all be blessed,
Now may Christ’s gospel be confessed,
Now may the Spirit when we meet
Bless sanctuary and street.
Sanctuary Postlude (organ)
Announcements
* We worship in the sanctuary on Sundays at 11am, and Sunday worship is also online. If you are able, please enter by the front door in Bath street, and only those who need step-free access should use the back door. If you feel unwell, please worship online, to protect both yourself and others in our community.
* The first Sunday of the month at 11am is an all-age service, with different ways of encountering God’s word without a traditional sermon. All people — young and old, different personalities and learning styles, are welcome! You’ll find a more informal service with a variety of music, a Bible story, prayer, and some more interactive elements. The online service for the first Sunday will therefore also be different — there will still be a reading, prayers, and music, but usually not a sermon.
* Starter Packs are in need of Bathroom/Kitchen Cleaner, Hand Wash/Soap, Shampoo, Deodorant.
The FoodBank are running low on tinned meat, tinned meals, tinned fruit, UHT milk, diluting juice, pasta sauces, and mens & ladies deodorant.
You can bring donations to the church and place them into the boxes in the vestibule. Thank you!
* Bowl & Blether is TOMORROW, Monday 6 October! Doors open at 11:30, and soup & toasties are served from 12-1:30. All are welcome for a meal and a friendly chat in our cozy warm hall!
* The Contact Group meets on Tuesday the 7th at 2pm to hear from Isabel Lind talking about John Gault. All are welcome. The syllabus of this session’s events is now available, and the syllabus donation of £5 will go towards our charity fundraising.
* Wednesday Evening Bible Study is at 7:30pm in the Manse and we are reading Luke!
* Mark your diaries for lunchtime on Saturday 25 October — we’ll be having an 80s disco in the sanctuary! Visit the farmer’s market and then pop into the church to dance your heart out (or at least to tap your toes!) to your favourite 80s tunes.
* Did you know that the ministry we do at St John’s costs about £3000 per week and we are currently running about £500 short? Everything we do is funded by your generous giving — all our support for young people, older people, bereavement care, community outreach, worship, study, spiritual growth, and community work is because of your offering. If you would like to set up a standing order in order to facilitate your spiritual discipline of giving, or if you would like to make an extra gift to support the ministry St. John’s does in our parish, you can give online by clicking here. If you would like to set up a standing order, please contact Teri and she can give you the treasurer’s details. You can also send your envelopes to the church or the manse by post and we will ensure they are received. It is also possible to donate to the work of the parish assistant, speak to Anne Love about how to go about directing new donations to that item in the budget.
* Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Youtube, and to sign up for our email newsletter! Midweek you can watch Wine and the Word on Youtube, pray with video devotions on Facebook, and consider a new angle on something with a devotional email.
* Free period products are available in the church toilets for anyone who might need them, thanks to Hey Girls and Inverclyde Council.
Sunday service for 11 May 2025, fourth Sunday of Easter
Sunday 11 May 2025, Fourth Sunday of Easter, youth end-of-session service
Gourock St. John’s Church of Scotland
Service prepared by Rev. Teri Peterson
Manse: 632143
Email: TPeterson (at) churchofscotland.org.uk
Email Charlene, Parish Assistant: CMitchell (at) churchofscotland.org.uk
Prelude Music (praise band)
Welcome
Sanctuary Processional Hymn 198: Let Us Build A House (vv. 1-2, 4-5)
We Gather As God’s Family (As the Bible is brought in, we stand and sing)
A family gathered in love,
striving for justice and joy,
blessing the broken-hearted,
and sharing the hope of God’s kingdom.
Call to Worship
One: The good news is spreading,
The Spirit is moving,
All: The Body of Christ is growing!
One: And sometimes the world feels complicated.
And sometimes the need feels overwhelming.
All: God has given us gifts to share and power to serve!
Prayer
God of word and wisdom,
your story can’t be contained,
just as your Son couldn’t be held in the tomb.
Your voice echoes through the words of our ancestors,
and our neighbours,
and even our own.
God who is Three and yet One,
you call us into community,
to live together in your way.
Focus our hearts now,
make us faithful in a world
full of other ways that do not lead to life.
Speak to us this day
and help us hear you calling us
beyond the wood and stone of a church building,
beyond the tune of our favourite songs,
to live from the centre of your truth:
that you love the world and you have come among us
and show us your Way.
Open our eyes to see you,
give us the right words to tell your story,
and fill us up us with your Spirit
so we can serve you with joy in every place.
We ask in the name of the Risen Lord, Jesus the Christ.
Amen.
Online Hymn: Draw Near the Tomb (Resound)
Sanctuary Hymn GWA199: Oh How Good It Is (praise band)
Scripture Reading: Acts 6.1-7 (New Revised Standard Version)
Now during those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Greek-speaking members complained against the Hebrew-speaking members because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. And the twelve called together the whole community of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, brothers and sisters, select from among yourselves seven men of good standing, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this task, while we, for our part, will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the word.” What they said pleased the whole community, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, together with Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. They had these men stand before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
The word of God continued to spread; the number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.
For the word of God in Scripture
For the word of God among us
For the word of God within us
Thanks be to God.
Online Sermon: leadership lessons
During those days when the disciples were increasing in number…
Those are challenging days. When a group becomes a family becomes a community becomes an institution, things get complicated, fast. Where it used to be that everyone just pitched in, and everyone knew what everyone else was good at and what they were bad at, it was easier. A dozen, or a few dozen, are simple — we can sit down together, share a meal, joke about whose turn it is to do the washing up and whose turn it is to take out the bins.
But when a community grows, that’s harder. New people with their foibles and failings, their talents that overlap ours, their previous experiences that make them sensitive to different stuff, the things they like or think are important and the things they dislike or think are meaningless…they change how we interact with one another. Add in people joining who speak a different language, and that’s a whole other layer.
Communities are always changing. Every time a new person comes in, and every time someone leaves or dies…even every time a person who’s been here for a while has a new experience or learning that changes their opinion or outlook or understanding. Multiplied times — well, in the book of Acts, dozens and then even thousands at a time! It’s easy to see how conflicts arise.
Sometimes the leadership assumes everyone joining is just like them, and so there’s no need to expand or do anything differently. Sometimes a whole community assumes that anyone who joins just assimilates, melting in seamlessly and becoming like us, regardless of where they come from or who they are or what their lives have been like. Sometimes we just don’t realise or notice that people have different needs or ideas or triggers. Sometimes we just overlook things or people because we got busy or distracted or overwhelmed with trying to keep it all together.
And often leaders in those situations will struggle to recognise just what the issue is — they’re trying to keep all the plates spinning, meet all the expectations, and also make sure their own relationship with God is alive. Leaders need people to come and tell them, directly, what’s happening. And when that happens, the twelve apostles give us a great example of what to do next.
First, they make sure it’s a real issue, not just one person saying “people are saying”…and then they acknowledge that it’s a problem they haven’t noticed or solved yet. Admitting that there’s a situation they aren’t managing well is the first step in changing course.
Second, they think and pray about their capacity and boundaries. What is actually their job to do, and what is important but needs to be done by someone else? How much can they manage without burning out? Just saying yes and trying to fix it themselves is what many of us might think we have to do, but that can end up taking on more and more and more…until we have a pretty spectacular fail. And while it is tempting to believe the hype that we can do it all and have it all, and there are plenty of people and organisations out there that want us leaders to just take responsibility for every single thing themselves, and that want churches to do everything and then some, the truth is that’s impossible and also unhealthy. It’s bad for the leaders and bad for the community. Recognising what is actually ours to do is a crucial skill for everyone, and for every church.
Third, they get everyone together and articulate what they see as their role, and what skills are needed in order to fill the gap or solve the problem that has arisen. They are clear about their gifts and the community’s needs. And they don’t just do this among themselves, they call a meeting and make sure everyone has the chance to participate in this clarifying of the situation.
Fourth, they ask for help. The apostles said “great, let’s divide the labour and share the load. We can carry more and go farther if we do it together.” They suggested that those who brought up the problem, who were un-represented on the leadership team, select the people who were gifted to do the thing that they saw needed doing. And they made space for these new people to join the leadership — even though they were new people, even though they spoke a different language and had a different background, even though they hadn’t learned all the traditions yet.
Fifth, they trusted the Holy Spirit — they believed that the Spirit had already gifted and called people, and all the community needed to do was look for that. Look around and see who is being called, and then lay hands on them and let them get on with it. No need to check they’re good enough, no need to micromanage their tasks. Just discern that they have the gifts needed for this situation, and crack on together as a bigger team all working for the same goal, but in different ways.
Notice they did not say they needed more people just like themselves. Instead, they trusted that the Spirit was gifting and calling people to fill this new need that had arisen because the community had changed. They didn’t need more people to duplicate their efforts, they needed people with different skills because the need was different than what they had trained for. So they made sure these new leaders were discerned, equipped, prayed for, and deployed to do their particular ministry…and so the diaconate was born. The word used for these seven men who took up this task of looking after the vulnerable in the community, while also proclaiming the word in their own language, is: deacon.
In a community that was growing and changing, they needed more than one kind of leader. In a community that was growing and changing, they needed to let people participate even if they hadn’t yet earned it by their long service. In a community that was growing and changing, they needed to try new things and not control the program too tightly. In a community that was growing and changing, they needed to trust the Holy Spirit to empower them all to share the load so that ever more people could hear the good news…and so the gospel spread, up and down the ladder of society, across the city, even into places that no one ever expected…and so they grew and grew, because they shared the story and shared the work…and the world would never be the same.
May it be so. Amen.
Online Hymn GWA199: Oh How Good It Is (praise band)
Sanctuary Hymn GWA224: Sing a New World Into Being (tune: Nettleton)
Welcoming Colin as new BB Captain
The Boys Brigade was founded in 1883 for the purpose of “Advancing Christ’s Kingdom amongst boys and the promotion of habits of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline, Self-respect and all that tends towards a true Christian Manliness.” Here in St John’s the 2nd Gourock Company has 127 years of working toward that mission, building community among boys and guiding them into Christian life and values since 1898. The Captain is the leader of the company, who sets the priorities and program, managing and planning for the whole company so that the work carried out with and for young people will be valuable, safe, loving, and meaningful. It is a big task, and not one undertaken lightly.
We are grateful that Colin has discerned God’s calling to this ministry, leading the 2nd Gourock into the next chapter. Colin, please know that your church family is here, praying for you, encouraging you, a resource and support for you, and we look forward to seeing your work flourish in this community. As you formally begin this role as the 15th captain of our company, we ask you these questions:
You have been called by God: not to be perfect or all-knowing, but to be faithful, and to share your journey. You are called to share God’s love, to walk with Jesus, and to look for the movement of the Holy Spirit in the world. Today we ask you to be mindful of this task: to form young people in grace and gratitude, to help them discover God’s purpose for their lives, and to lead them in being a blessing to the world. Will you, by your work, your word, and the example of your life seek to advance Christ’s kingdom, to work in partnership with the Church to share the good news of God’s love? Will you?
And will you, in your own life, attend to the purpose God has for you, seeking God in prayer and offering yourself in service, that you might be equipped for every good work? Will you?
(Bible)
Let us pray.
Loving God, thank you for Colin, for his answering your call to leadership in the Boys Brigade, and for all the experiences that have brought him to this point, from coming up through this company, to being a part of this church family, to his work and his family and his passions and talents. We ask your blessing on him today, that he made guide and form the volunteers and the boys in his care to seek your kingdom and develop into faithful people who serve you by serving others. We ask your blessing too for the leaders who make up the 2nd Gourock team, and also for Colin’s family, for Alison and Euan, that they may also be a support and an inspiration to him, and that they may themselves be supported and inspired by your Holy Spirit and your Church and by this company of the boys’ brigade.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Colin, thank you for offering yourself in service, an example to us all.
Sanctuary Offering and Response: Draw Near the Tomb v 3/choruses (Resound Worship)
Celebrations
Speaking of offering — Alan has offered his time and energy and talent as captain of the 2nd Gourock for more than one third of its existence — 47 of our 127 years.
When he was just 19, not technically old enough to become captain, the Kirk session agreed to entrust him with the post – along with an elder as a mentor – and the rest is 37% of 2nd Gourock history. Through that time, Alan has nurtured countless boys, seeking to fulfil the BB mission: to “Advance Christ’s Kingdom amongst boys and the promotion of habits of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline, Self-respect and all that tends towards a true Christian Manliness.” He has been an example of those habits, a role model of commitment and faithfulness, and a steadfast companion on the way. Through camps, residential, trips, sports, study, and more — including somewhere around 1200 Friday nights spent in the church hall — he has walked beside hundreds of young people as they have grown into the people God called them to be. Actually I did some maths and realised that likely upwards of a thousand boys have come through the 2nd Gourock in one way or another over the past 47 years. What an immense legacy to leave not just for the company, but in the church and the town and the nation.
Of course Alan hasn’t done it alone — as we have heard already, sharing the load is part of good leadership. And Alan’s first, and longest, bit of sharing was to ask Helen to help out for a year…46 years ago. Together they have had an impact on so many lives. We your St John’s family are so grateful for all you have given to the building of Christ’s kingdom in this community. As you head into a well-earned retirement, looking forward to some Tuesday and Friday nights spent outside this building, we want to give you a token of your church family’s appreciation and gratitude and love, in the hope that you’ll be able to enjoy yourselves a wee bit without any uniforms needed!
The rest of the Anchor Boys team — Alison Purdue and Peter Lowles — aren’t able to be here today, but they too are retiring after 33 and 28 years respectively, and we are also so grateful to them for their dedication to the youngest boys in the company, and to the wellbeing of this community.
For those doing the maths today that means that the four retiring officers have given a combined 154 years of dedicated service to the boys of this community. They have shared their faith and values, they have taught and encouraged, they have empowered and guided, they have been companions through some of the hardest times young people can face and cheerleaders through huge successes. They have been role models for not only children but also families and friends. Through their faithful efforts we truly believe that the world has been changed. Thank you.
Prayer and Lord’s Prayer
Faithful God, we give you thanks today for those whom you have called into leadership among us,
for those who have shown us your love and grace,
those who have given of their best day in and day out.
We thank you especially today for Alan, for his steadfast commitment to the young people you have given into his care, for his ability to keep them engaged, for his flexibility in growing as the years have changed, for his persistence in getting them to reach higher and achieve all they can. Truly he has led the 2nd Gourock to be second to none, and we are so grateful to have been witnesses to his ministry in this place.
We thank you today too for Helen, for decades of work with our youngest boys, ensuring they have fun and learn and grow, always finding something new for them to experience. We thank you for her patience and imagination and humour, and for her dedication that shines in all she does.
We give you thanks for Alison and Peter, for their many years of faithful work, the ways they have anticipated what was needed, supported behind the scenes and out in front, and shown up for your children week in and week out.
We pray that Alan, Helen, Alison, and Peter would enjoy a well-deserved rest, that they might experience the fullness of your sabbath joy, and know themselves cared for and loved, by you and by us.
Loving God we thank you today for all the leaders of our youth organisations, and for the young people and families who are part of this community. We pray for your spirit to be present among them, revealing your abundant life, guiding them on your path, and helping them grow into the people you call them to be.
We thank you too for all who have answered the call to lead in our community, nation, business, and world. It is a challenging time in the world and we pray that you would inspire them, give them courage to seek the common good rather than their own greed, to do what is right without thought for their ego, and to find a new way forward in the changes of these days. We especially pray for wisdom for those new to their roles — new ministers ordained across the church, new councillors across England and Wales, new staff at our own local council, and even the new Pope Leo XIV — that they may discern your way and walk it faithfully.
Remind us all today of our part in your world, our part in your Body — not to do it all, but to work together and share the load and so participate in making your vision, your plans, real right here on earth.
On the 11th day of the month we join our hearts as your St John’s family to pray:
*For all who live and work in the Castle Levan area.
*For the leaders of St John’s congregation: for the elders, the Kirk Session, the Session Clerk and Assistant Session Clerk, and the Treasurer.
*For the land, people, and governments of the nations of Mauritania, Senegal, the Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, and Sierra Leone.
Set our feet firmly on your path, Lord, and make our lives a reflection of your love and grace for the world. We ask in the name of Jesus the Christ, who taught us to pray together:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.
Hymn 737: Will Your Anchor Hold
Sanctuary Hymn 703: National Anthem vv. 1 & 3
Sending
Go from this place following the Spirit of the Risen Christ, telling the story of how God changes our lives for the better.
And as you go may the Spirit of God go above you to watch over you. May the Spirit of God go beside you to be your companion. May the Spirit of God go before you to show you the way, and behind you to push you into places you might not go alone. And may the Spirit of God go within you, to remind you that you are loved more deeply than you can possibly imagine. May the fire of God’s love burn brightly in you, and through you into the world. Go in peace. Amen.
Sung Benediction Response (John L Bell, tune Gourock St John’s)
Now may the Lord of all be blessed,
Now may Christ’s gospel be confessed,
Now may the Spirit when we meet
Bless sanctuary and street.
Recessional / Postlude Music
Announcements
*If you’d like to join one of our prayer groups, or ask them to pray for someone or something, please be in touch with the coordinators: Sunday morning 10:10 in the vestry (Brian Ross), Intercessors who pray at home (Fiona Webster)
* We worship in the sanctuary on Sundays at 11am, and Sunday worship is also online. If you are able, please enter by the front door in Bath street, and only those who need step-free access should use the back door. If you feel unwell, please worship online, to protect both yourself and others in our community.
The Sunday evening service is on a break for Lent so that we can focus on the Monday evening book group (more info below). The Sunday evenings will re-launch after Easter.
* The first Sunday of the month at 11am is an all-age service, with different ways of encountering God’s word without a traditional sermon. All people — young and old, different personalities and learning styles, are welcome! You’ll find a more informal service with a variety of music, a Bible story, prayer, and some more interactive elements. The online service for the first Sunday will therefore also be different — there will still be a reading, prayers, and music, but usually not a sermon.
* Starter Packs are in need of Bathroom/Kitchen Cleaner, Shampoo, Shaving Foam, Razors, Ladies Deodorant
.
The FoodBank are in need of toothpaste, diluting juice and tinned tomatoes.
You can bring donations to the church and place them into the boxes in the vestibule. Thank you!
* The General Assembly of the Church of Scotland begins next weekend, Saturday the 17th of May. You can watch online at the Church of Scotland website to keep informed about all that the Church is doing! Teri is a commissioner this year so will be away during the following week (from the 18th after worship). If you need anything, please contact Charlene or Cameron. Teri will have access to email and text messages for urgent matters but responses may be delayed.
* The Kirk Session will meet on Thursday 5 June at 7pm and the meeting will include discussion of the book “Finding Our Voice.” Elders should have a copy but there is one left in the church if anyone still needs to pick one up.
* A funeral service to celebrate the life of Mrs Betty Dixon will be held at Greenock Crematorium on Monday 12 May at 11am.
A funeral service to celebrate the life of Mrs Rene Brown will be held at Greenock Crematorium on Monday 19 May at 1pm.
* Did you know that the ministry we do at St John’s costs about £3000 per week? Everything we do is funded by your generous giving — all our support for young people, older people, bereavement care, community outreach, worship, study, spiritual growth, and community work is because of your offering. If you would like to set up a standing order in order to facilitate your spiritual discipline of giving, or if you would like to make an extra gift to support the ministry St. John’s does in our parish, you can give online by clicking here. If you would like to set up a standing order, please contact Teri and she can give you the treasurer’s details. You can also send your envelopes to the church or the manse by post and we will ensure they are received. It is also possible to donate to the work of the parish assistant, speak to Anne Love about how to go about directing new donations to that item in the budget.
* Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Youtube, and to sign up for our email newsletter! Midweek you can watch Wine and the Word on Youtube, pray with video devotions on Facebook, and consider a new angle on something with a devotional email.
* Free period products are available in the church toilets for anyone who might need them, thanks to Hey Girls and Inverclyde Council.
Sunday Service for 8 October 2023
Sunday 8 October 2023 — NL2-5, Conversations With God 5, Youth Sunday
Gourock St. John’s Church of Scotland
Service prepared by Rev. Teri Peterson
Manse: 632143
Email: TPeterson (at) churchofscotland.org.uk
Email Charlene, Parish Assistant: CMitchell (at) churchofscotland.org.uk
Sanctuary Prelude Music
Sanctuary: We Gather As God’s Family (As the Bible is brought in, we stand and sing)
A family gathered in love,
striving for justice and joy,
blessing the broken-hearted,
and sharing the hope of God’s kingdom.
Welcome & Announcements
Sanctuary Processional Hymn 198: Let Us Build A House (vv. 1-2, 4-5)
Call to Worship
One: From generation to generation,
All: our God is the Lord.
One: For our ancestors, yes, and also for us, here, today,
All: our God is the Lord.
One: In the stories of old, and the story we are still living,
All: our God is the Lord.
One: Listen — not just with your ears but with your whole self:
All: our God is the Lord,
and we will love God with all our being.
Sanctuary Hymn: What Kind of World Are We Passing On (Fischy)
Prayer
You have offered us a story with thousands of generations of blessing, O God,
and we come today to hear and to join in.
You set us free from the empires of destruction, scarcity, and supremacy
so that we can worship you together in spirit and truth.
The way of the world is
to get as much as we can, think of ourselves first,
and do whatever it takes no matter who gets hurt.
but You call us to another way:
the way of life, lived to the full,
sharing in your goodness and grace.
Help us today to hear you, and to obey, that we may live.
God of all times and places,
you have created a people and made us one with each other and with you.
We confess that we rarely think of ourselves as one human family,
even today let alone across the ages.
We benefit from things our ancestors have done,
without thinking of the cost borne by others in your family or the earth.
We choose not to think of how our choices affect the future we will never see.
Forgive us when we disconnect ourselves from responsibility to both past and future.
Forgive us our self-centredness
and our unwillingness to recognise the gift of being one part of your story.
Forgive us when we see your way of life as only a set of rules
by which we can judge others but not ourselves.
Help us to hear and obey,
learning your care and compassion for all your people and your world.
We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Assurance of Forgiveness
Our God is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love — God is a thousand parts compassion for every four parts judgment. Trusting in God’s steadfast love to the thousandth generation, take up your place in this forgiven family, and live in that grace so that all may know the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Hear and believe this good news: in Jesus Christ, we are forgiven. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Online Hymn 727: In the Bulb There is a Flower
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 5.1-21, 6.4-9 (New Living Translation)
Moses called all the people together and said, “Listen carefully. Hear the decrees and regulations I am giving you today, so you may learn them and obey them!
“The Lord our God made a covenant with us at Mount Sinai. The Lord did not make this covenant with our parents and grandparents, but with all of us who are alive today. At the mountain the Lord spoke to you face to face from the heart of the fire. I stood in between you and the Lord, for you were afraid of the fire and did not want to approach the mountain. He spoke to me, and I passed his words on to you. This is what he said:
“I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.
“You must not have any other god but me.
“You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind, or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations of those who reject me. But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands.
“You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.
“Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the Lord your God has commanded you. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your oxen and donkeys and other livestock, and any foreigners living among you. All your male and female servants must rest as you do. Remember that you were once slaves in Egypt, but the Lord your God brought you out with his strong hand and powerful arm. That is why the Lord your God has commanded you to rest on the Sabbath day.
“Honour your father and mother, as the Lord your God commanded you. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you.
“You must not murder.
“You must not commit adultery.
“You must not steal.
“You must not testify falsely against your neighbour.
“You must not covet your neighbour’s wife. You must not covet your neighbour’s house or land, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbour.
“Listen! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”
For the word of God in scripture
for the word of God among us
for the word of God within us
thanks be to God.
Sermon
Have you ever felt like the Bible is just an old story of people who died a long time ago and doesn’t have anything to do with us?
Or like you’re tired of hearing your parents or grandparents talk about stuff they remember from back in the day…sometimes stuff about how hard life was, no one had any money, toilets were on the landing in the close, shipyard work was dangerous, the war was on…or how great life was when everyone went dancing and made friends with other people who ran down the hill for the same bus after work in the factories and you could support a family on one good job that you kept forever?
Or have you ever felt like people older than you are expecting something from you, like somehow we owe it to people who died a long time ago to do some particular thing, or to keep a particular tradition going even though it doesn’t mean anything to you, or to like the things they liked?
It turns out that the people Moses talked to had the same problem. He was super old by the time he said the stuff we heard read today, and he started out by saying to all the young people in front of him that he didn’t want to talk about stuff God used to do, or about stuff their parents used to do, he wanted to talk to them about what God was doing right now, and what they were supposed to do as God’s people right now, not because their parents had done it that way but because it was a legitimately good way to live.
I suspect that some of them rolled their eyes the same way most of us have done when our parents or grandparents tried to tell us something they thought was important. But for him to start out by saying “not with our ancestors but with us”…Moses is trying to get every generation to realise that God is not about the past tense, but about the right now. Because the facts are that the people standing in front of Moses that day were not actually there when he brought the stone tablets down from the mountain forty years before. They weren’t even born. And yet he says that this is important right now, today, for these young people, because the truth is that God is too big for just one generation. God’s story can’t be contained in just one age group or one set of people. So Moses tries to help them see themselves in a story that started before they were born, and will carry on long after they die, generation to generation. Not just to dismiss the old as something irrelevant, but also to take seriously the now as a foundation for the future.
In other words, we are part of a sort of chain…we are connected to the people who came before us, even the ones who came so long before us we can’t imagine why they still matter, and we are also connected to the people who will come after us, even the ones who will live so far into the future we can’t imagine what it will be like or what we have to do with each other. And because even one damaged link in a chain makes the whole thing weak and easy to break apart, it matters that we take seriously our place in the story. That’s why God gives us the rules we often call the Ten Commandments — because they are meant to help us build a community that supports each other, cares for one another, and builds up each other for the good of the whole. And sometimes that’s obvious, like…don’t kill. Well, duh. Clearly killing breaks down community and damages the links in the chain. Same thing with stealing and lying, which damage relationships. And that whole business about coveting — most of us don’t even really know what it means to covet something, but it’s really about wanting and trying to take something that isn’t ours, not in the same way as stealing but more like setting up a system that would manipulate the thing you want so you can have it and others can’t — like stacking the deck of the world so that some people are at a disadvantage so that you can take advantage of it.
But every few sentences there’s another reminder that we’re all connected, not separate individuals or generations that can just do what we want without consequences to others. There’s the bit about honouring our parents so that our own legacy in the land will be long and fruitful…the part about remembering the old stories so that we don’t repeat the mistakes our predecessors have made…the instructions to teach all this stuff to the next generation too, including the reminders we might need along the way, almost like putting an alert on your phone to keep it in front of your eyes all the time…and that scary business about how God’s punishment and God’s blessing extend past us into the generations still to come — a thousand generations of blessing will follow those who live their lives according to these community-minded instructions, and three or four generations of bad consequences follow those who choose a different or more self-centred way.
It sounds so unfair. But we also know the truth of it, because right now we are living with the consequences of the actions of people in the past few generations. The climate emergency was not created by you young people here today, but you and your children are the ones who will suffer most. The economic situation we are in today was not of our making, but we still have to figure out how to live with the choices of those who came before. Social realities like racism and homophobia and sexism and bigotry weren’t our idea, but they are still part of our lives, just hanging on from generation to generation.
You know how whenever there’s a story about time travel, the characters say they have to be super careful because if they do something little that changes things, it could affect the entire outcome of history and change the world in unexpected ways?
Why don’t we ever think that about how we live right now? Like…small changes we make today could affect the entire outcome of the future. Literally change the world. Do you ever think of yourself as changing the world by how you live?
We are supposed to be good ancestors to the people who will come along in another twenty years, a hundred years, a thousand years. What we do today, how we treat each other today, how we build community that cares for each other today…all of that can change everything. We are responsible to and for each other, and for the future.
It isn’t that we’ve always done it this way, therefore we always have to do it this way, and we just keep doing the old ways. It’s that what we do today matters — to us and the people around us, yes…and to people far away who we may never meet but who live with the consequences of our actions, especially when it comes to stuff like climate change or politics or violence…and also it matters to people who will be born a long time after we die. The culture we create now, the way we choose to look out for each other and for the earth, will affect them. So I hope every day we will ask the question: am I being a good ancestor? Am I living, making choices, treating others, in a way that sets up a good foundation for the future? Or am I going to be one of those people that in a hundred years people look back and say “I can’t believe they did that and we have to live with the consequences now”?
Choosing the way of life God sets out — the way of love, the way of community, the way of caring for and looking out for each other instead of only for ourselves — that way of life sets up thousands of generations of blessing. Let’s be those people.
May it be so. Amen.
Online Hymn: What Kind of World Are We Passing On (Fischy)
Sanctuary Hymn 727: In the Bulb There Is A Flower
Offering
Sanctuary Offering Response: God Our Creator, vv. 1 & 4 (tune: Bunessan; words: John L Bell & Graham Maule)
God our Creator, you in love made us
who once were nothing but now have grown.
We bring the best of all our lives offer;
for you we share whatever we own.
And with the people summoned together
to be the Church in which faith is sown,
we make our promise to live for Jesus,
and let the world know all are God’s own.
Sanctuary Youth Dedication / Promises
Prayer and Lord’s Prayer
God of love and justice and freedom,
You are personally invested in your creation,
and we give you thanks for your attention and care.
We are grateful that you not only take notice of us,
but you come to be with us,
close by and interested in how we live.
We remember today those who feel alone, as if no one cares,
and we pray that your presence would be made known to them.
We pray for all those who think no one is paying attention,
and so it doesn’t matter what they do or how they feel or whether they’re here.
We ask that you would be visible, and your love so obvious that they can’t help but notice,
and know that they are beloved, wanted, and that they belong.
We remember today all those people who don’t have the luxury of sabbath,
who labour for others’ profit,
who have no choice but to keep working or to go hungry,
who long for a day off but can’t make ends meet.
May your abundance be a reality,
so that all people can experience the freedom of your kingdom.
We remember today those who have been victims of others’ greed,
who have lost lives, livelihoods, family, or friends to violence or jealousy,
and those who are unlucky enough to be at the bottom of the pile
when the system is rigged against them.
May your justice turn this world upside down,
and bring hope to those in despair and a future to those who see no way forward.
We remember today those who are caught in the ways of this world,
who can’t imagine anything other than the way we’ve always done it,
who want to believe that with you, all things are possible, but just don’t see it.
Reveal yourself, and your kingdom of justice and peace,
your way of life that overcomes death,
your truth that changes everything.
And remind us, again and again, of our part in your covenant story.
And on this 8th day of the month we join our hearts together as your church family to pray:
*For all who live and work in the centre of Gourock — for those who are neighbours of our churches, those who own businesses, those who use the library, and those who come into the centre of town for any reason.
**For those who use the building at St John’s — may they encounter your grace in our hospitality — and for the volunteers who keep the building clean and in good repair.
*For the land, people, and governments of the nations of Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece.
And we pray especially today for the people and land of Afghanistan in the aftermath of an earthquake, and of Ukraine as the war rages on, and of Israel and Palestine as the impossible situation there brings violence, destruction, fear, and grief yet again. May your peace that passes all understanding guard and guide all your people.
Teach us to love you with our whole heart, mind, and strength,
and to live as if your kingdom is coming on earth as it is in heaven.
We ask these and all things in the name of your son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
your living word, who taught us to pray together:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.
Sanctuary Hymn 737: Will Your Anchor Hold
Sanctuary National Anthem vv. 1 & 3
Benediction
Listen! Our God is the Lord, and God is Love. In a world with so many choices about who to serve: love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
And as you go, may the Spirit of God go above you to watch over you. May the Spirit of God go beside you to be your companion. May the Spirit of God go before you to show you the way, and behind you to push you into places you might not go alone. And may the Spirit of God go within you, to remind you that you are loved more deeply than you can possibly imagine. May the fire of God’s love burn brightly in you, and through you into the world. Amen.
Sung Benediction Response (John L Bell, tune Gourock St John’s)
Now may the Lord of all be blessed,
Now may Christ’s gospel be confessed,
Now may the Spirit when we meet
Bless sanctuary and street.
EDICT FOR ORDINATION AND ADMISSION OF ELDER
Mr Joseph Heffernan, a member of this congregation, has been elected to be a ruling elder (and the Kirk Session has judged him to be qualified for that office and has sustained his election)*; Joseph Heffernan has accepted office as elder: if anyone has any objections why this member should not be ordained to office, they state their objection at the meeting of the Kirk Session in the small hall of Gourock: St John’s Church on Sunday, 15th of October, 2023, at 10.40am; if no relevant objection regarding life or doctrine is made and substantiated, the Kirk Session will proceed to the ordination.
* We plan to expand Bowl & Blether to add the 3rd Mondays of the month in the winter months, starting on the 16th of October. This will require a team of volunteers to make soup in the church kitchen in the morning, to make toasties, and to serve soup/toasties/tea/coffee, offering hospitality and a warm cheery chat to anyone who wants to come in through the winter. Please contact Teri if you would be willing to volunteer on the 3rd Mondays of the month over the winter.
* A funeral service for Mr Rodger Manson will be held at Old Gourock & Ashton church on Monday the 9th of October at 1pm.
* The Kirk Session will meet on Sunday 15 October at 10:40am.
* Wednesday Evening Bible Study meets in the manse on Wednesday 11 October at 7:30pm.
* A funeral service for Mr Norman Leitch will be held at Greenock Crematorium on Thursday the 12th of October at 1pm.
* On Sunday evening the 15th of October at 7pm we will have a special Songs of Praise, with Philip, the praise band, and the Connect+ singing group leading us. If you have any suggestions you’d like to submit, please send them to Teri by today.
* We worship in the sanctuary on Sundays at 11am, and all Sunday worship is also online. If you are able, please enter by the front door in Bath street, and only those who need step-free access should use the back door. If you feel unwell, please worship online, to protect both yourself and others in our community.
* Starter Packs are short of Shaving Foam, Shampoo and Cleaning cloths. The FoodBank are short of biscuits, UHT milk, tinned soup, tinned custard, tinned tomatoes. You can bring donations to the church and place them into the boxes in the vestibule. Thank you!
* Did you know that the ministry we do at St John’s costs about £3000 per week? Everything we do is funded by your generous giving — all our support for young people, older people, bereavement care, community outreach, worship, study, spiritual growth, and community work is because of your offering. If you would like to set up a standing order in order to facilitate your spiritual discipline of giving, or if you would like to make an extra gift to support the ministry St. John’s does in our parish, you can give online by clicking here. If you would like to set up a standing order, please contact Teri and she can give you the treasurer’s details. You can also send your envelopes to the church or the manse by post and we will ensure they are received. It is also possible to donate to the work of the new parish assistant, speak to Anne Love about how to go about directing new donations to that new item in the budget.
* Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Youtube, and to sign up for our email devotions! Midweek you can watch Wine and the Word on Youtube, pray with video devotions on Facebook, and consider a new angle on something with a devotional email. Feel free to share with your friends, too!
* Free period products are available in the church toilets for anyone who might need them, thanks to Hey Girls and Inverclyde Council.
* Youth organisations are in full swing, and we are especially looking for new members of the Anchor Boys and the Smurfs (P1-P3, boys and girls respectively). Young people are invited to come along to the Junior Section (P4-P6) of the BB on Monday evenings at 7, Anchor Boys (P1-P3) on Tuesdays at 5:30, Brownies and Guides on Wednesday evenings at 6pm and 7:30pm respectively, Smurfs on Thursdays at 6pm, and Company Section (P7-S6) of the BB on Fridays at 7. For more information on the Boys’ Brigade, email: 2ndgourock@inverclydebb.org.uk , for more information on the Smurfs (pre-Brownies), email Lyn at lyn41185@hotmail.com, and for more information on the Brownies/Guides, visit https://www.girlguidingscotland.org.uk/for-parents/register-your-daughter .
* The Church of Scotland has a new online learning platform called Church of Scotland Learning (more info here). The first set of modules is now available, and are designed with members of local congregations in mind and will help to grow faith, stretch minds and explore possibilities. They are set at an introductory level and accessible for all. We hope this will ignite people’s interest in learning more. Currently available topics include Vows for Elders; Vows for Ministers; Conversations in Discipleship, Exploring Discipleship, Talking About Your Faith; New Ways of Being Church; Knowing You Knowing Me (Learning to understand more fully where God is and what God is calling us to do); Theological Reflection for Everyone; Equality Diversity and Inclusion; and Unconscious Bias and Me. More modules will be added periodically, so sign up today by clicking here!
* Trinity College Glasgow and New College Edinburgh also both offer “short courses” for lay people — there are a variety of interesting modules available for online or in-person participation, including courses on Listening In Mission, worship, New Testament, Mission and our response to Presbytery planning, Creative Writing as a Spiritual Practice, and more. Please become a lifelong learner and dig into some of these opportunities that God is putting in front of us to grow in our faith and life together!
* Would you be able to host two university students from the USA from 8-11 June, 2024? They will each need their own bed, though they can share a room, and you would be providing them breakfast and dinner, bringing them to church on Sunday, and being a welcoming and engaging host as they get a cultural exchange experience. There would be some financial help to cover the food expenses. If you might be interested, please be in touch with Teri or Seonaid Knox, so we have a sense of how many students we can host.
Sunday service for 2 October 2022
Sunday 2 October 2022, youth enrolment service
Gourock St. John’s Church of Scotland
Service prepared by Rev. Teri Peterson
Manse: 632143
Email: tpeterson (at) churchofscotland.org.uk
Prelude Music
Welcome/Announcements
Call to Worship (Junior Section)
One: From many places, God calls us one people.
All: From perfect family trees and journeys that took several detours,
God calls us one people.
One: God’s generosity inspires ours—
All: in welcome,
in helping each other,
in laying aside assumptions,
in commitment to serve.
One: Come hear again God’s truth that defines what greatness is.
All: We come to worship God together.
Online Hymn: I Will Follow (Chris Tomlin)
Sanctuary Processional Hymn 171: Take Up the Song (tune: Highland Cathedral)
Prayer (Brownies)
Providing God,
we come with thanks for how amazing you are.
Your care for us goes beyond our expectations,
even though all of us fall short of your glory.
You are faithful to all, forever—
from the beginning of time,
you have called all kinds of characters to be your people.
When we forget that their story is our story, forgive us.
When we admire them from afar
while insisting that kind of faith isn’t practical for us, forgive us.
We confess that our commitment is often to our own best interest instead of yours,
and that when your path becomes difficult we will leave it un-traveled.
Teach us your ways again, and help us to be faithful.
Remind us today of your call to care for one another,
to bear one another’s burdens,
to offer ourselves in service,
and to build up the community of your people,
wherever we have come from and whoever we are.
Bind our hearts and hands to you,
for you are our God and we are your people.
Amen.
Sanctuary Children’s Time— Song: We will walk with God (Sizohamba Naye)
Sanctuary: Guides and Brownies Promise
Reading: Ruth (Common English Bible) (Company Section)
(Teri to tell the story of Ruth 1.1-14)
Ruth 1.15-19a
Naomi said, “Look, your sister-in-law is returning to her people and to her gods. Turn back after your sister-in-law.”
But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to abandon you, to turn back from following after you. Wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord do this to me and more so if even death separates me from you.” When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped speaking to her about it.
So both of them went along until they arrived at Bethlehem.
(Teri to tell the story up to 2.13)
Ruth 2.14-18, 23
At mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come over here, eat some of the bread, and dip your piece in the vinegar.” She sat alongside the harvesters, and he served roasted grain to her. She ate, was satisfied, and had leftovers. Then she got up to glean.
Boaz ordered his young men, “Let her glean between the bundles, and don’t humiliate her. Also, pull out some from the bales for her and leave them behind for her to glean. And don’t scold her.”
So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she threshed what she had gleaned; it was about an ephah of barley. She picked it up and went into town. Her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. She brought out what she had left over after eating her fill and gave it to her.
Thus Ruth stayed with Boaz’s young women, gleaning until the completion of the barley and wheat harvests.
(Teri to tell the story up to 4.12)
Ruth 4.13-17
So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife…and she gave birth to a son. The women said to Naomi, “May the Lord be blessed, who today hasn’t left you without a redeemer. May his name be proclaimed in Israel. He will restore your life and sustain you in your old age. Your daughter-in-law who loves you has given birth to him. She’s better for you than seven sons.” Naomi took the child and held him to her breast, and she became his guardian. The neighbourhood women gave him a name, saying, “A son has been born to Naomi.” They called his name Obed. He became Jesse’s father and David’s grandfather.
For the word of God in scripture
For the word of God all around us
For the word of God within us
Thanks be to God.
Sermon: Life Changing Choices
I really love a story with a happy ending. Sometimes stories just seem to end without actually finishing, you know? And sometimes they end with everyone dying or something terrible. But in the story of Ruth and Naomi, all the really terrible stuff happens right at the beginning, literally in the first few sentences. And after that, it’s a story of people working together to try to figure out what to do in this complicated world we live in. Every choice they make is a choice that could go horribly wrong, or it could be the thing that saves the day. And when everyone’s choices all add up together, it leads to a happy ending, pointing toward a bright future for God’s people, as this turns out to be the family of King David.
It might not feel like the choices we make every day are quite as important as the ones Ruth and Naomi and Boaz and all the others in this story were making. But the truth is that Ruth was just…living her life. She had no idea what the future would hold for her. She only knew that in each situation, she had to make a choice. And that’s true for us too. We don’t know what the future will hold. We don’t know whether the choices we make today will become the foundations of something incredible in years to come, or if the story we are living right now will turn out to be a story people are still telling hundreds of years from now. All we know is that in each situation, we have to make a choice.
Ruth made the choice, in the middle of terrible grief, to leave behind everything she had ever known in order to stick by Naomi. Her life was falling apart, but instead of going back to her old ways, to the place where she might have been comfortable, she chose to go with Naomi. Remember Ruth had never been to Bethlehem before, and she only knew four people from there and three of them had died. She would be going to a brand new place, in a foreign country, where she would stick out as a stranger. But her loyalty to Naomi was greater than her fear of the unknown. She chose to go to a new home, and to turn to a new God, and to take up a whole new way of life, because she loved Naomi and she was committed to being family with her.
Naomi didn’t really know what to do with that, so she just…stopped talking. She had lost her husband and both her sons, and now she was going home after a long time away, but she’d be accompanied by this foreign woman who was a reminder of everything that had gone wrong. Her sadness got the better of her. Even when they got to Bethlehem, Naomi just went into the house and stayed there. She was in a very dark place, and it almost seems as if she couldn’t really bring herself to get up and take care of things. She just sat there in her despair.
But Ruth had made a promise. So she decided to get to work keeping it. When she went out to try to pick up some of the grain that the harvesters had missed or left behind, she caught the eye of a man who had also made a choice: a choice to follow God’s way very carefully. There are rules in the Bible about how to harvest a field, and those rules say that you should always leave the edges for people who don’t have any land to come harvest a bit for themselves. Boaz was loyal to God and he wanted to do what God asked, so he not only left the edges but even told his workers to pull some extra out and drop it, and to keep an eye on this young woman to make sure she was okay. And then he asked her to his dinner table, too! He chose to invite her in, even though she was different, even though she was an immigrant, even though her life story kind of seemed like bad luck. He welcomed her as if she was one of them — which is also what the Bible teaches us to do. And his choice to welcome her and help her meant that it was a bit easier for Ruth to keep her promise to Naomi.
Both Ruth and Boaz made their choices…just everyday choices, in the middle of all the complicated life stuff that was going on. Ruth was grieving and sad and worried about Naomi. The two of them were hungry and there was no one to take care of them. She was different from everyone else, a newcomer, and people might even have been suspicious of her. She’d had a hard time in life so far. Boaz was pretty well-off, he had land and he could afford to pay his workers, and to give some charity too. He was busy, and important in his community. Boaz and Ruth were very different people, with different life experiences, different backgrounds, different everything. But in one way they were the same: they made choices that were based on their values, on what was important to them.
Ruth was loyal to Naomi, and to God. She valued love and family and faithfulness and compassion for people who are struggling, and she was willing to put in hard work to follow through on her choices. She stayed right beside Naomi when Naomi didn’t even know how to love herself, and she did everything she could to be sure Naomi was taken care of through the difficult times, and surrounded with celebration and friends in the good times.
Boaz was loyal to God. He valued hospitality, welcoming, caring for others, helping the poor, supporting his community, and following God’s instructions. He was willing to choose to use his wealth and his influence in the community to watch out for the person who was marginalised and at risk, and he made sure everyone had enough to eat and a family to be a part of.
The choices we make every day are also based on our values. Thinking about what is important to us will help us be more clear about what we should do when a new situation comes up. It might still mean that the choices are difficult, or might lead to really hard work or to scary unknown paths. But at least we will know that we did what is right.
As Christians, our first and most important value is God’s love — because God loves us, and asks us to love both God and other people as our number one priority. Jesus said it was the first and greatest commandment, and without love everything else falls apart. Imagine if Ruth or Boaz tried to make their choices without love! Who knows what they would have done, but I bet it would have been a different story! Sometimes it might feel really difficult to love God, when things are tough. And sometimes it might feel really difficult to love other people, when they’re annoying or when they’re out of sight out of mind…or when we’re too busy or too important or too sad. But here’s the thing: God chose us first, and God always loves us. God is faithful, loyal, and true. God never leaves us to figure everything out alone. Which means that we can also choose to be faithful, loyal, and true. We can choose to follow God’s way, like Boaz and like Ruth — and that will affect all our choices in this life. Being loyal to God will show up in our behaviour toward other people, toward the environment, toward our community, and even toward ourselves. Even though our everyday choices might not feel like a big deal or like they’ll make a difference, each and every choice, from how we speak to each other – to what we choose to eat – to what kind of work we do – to how we spend our money and our time…all of it is part of building a life on our values — starting from love and following God.
If you’re wondering how you’re supposed to decide what values will guide your choices, I always suggest starting with Jesus. Knowing his story, and the other stories about God’s people in the Bible, can help us think about what it means to follow his way. That was how Boaz knew what to do! Then pray and ask God to help — don’t forget to listen as well as talk, because God has a lot to say if we’re listening carefully! I think that’s how Ruth knew what to do. And then after that, look to people in the community who do the right thing and help make the world better, and who seem to have some peace and confidence doing it. All of us need people around us who will support us like Ruth supported Naomi, who will celebrate with us like the neighbourhood women did, who will sometimes give instructions like Boaz gave his workers, and sometimes just feed us a meal and give us a safe place to rest like Boaz gave Ruth, people who will be an example and also a mentor. Those people can be a guide as we learn and grow — at any age, not just when we’re kids! Part of God’s gift to us is the gift of community to challenge and support us to follow Jesus closer each day.
(SANCTUARY: commissioning youth leaders and parents)
God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God. Each day is made up of so many choices, so many chances to live according to our values, so many opportunities to show God’s love to the world God loves so much.
May it be so. Amen.
Online Hymn 536: May the Mind of Christ My Saviour (tune: St Leonard’s)
Sanctuary Hymn: I Will Follow (Chris Tomlin; Praise Band)
Sanctuary: BB enrolment questions and prayer
Prayer and Lord’s Prayer
Thank you, Lord, for Ruth’s persistence and for Boaz’s generosity.
Thank you for revealing your tenacity and faithfulness through them.
Thank you for all who have embodied your persistent, generous grace,
and taught us to do the same.
You invite us to bring the cares of our hearts to you,
trusting that there is no burden your Spirit cannot carry.
We heave heard your word of love and justice,
your promise to reveal your kingdom.
So in the midst of this world,
longing for peace, for hope, for truth, for justice, we bring our prayers:
For those who grieve,
whose tears are their constant companion,
who feel the bitter bite of loss.
For those without enough to eat,
As the safety net unravels.
For those marked as an outsider,
described by how they are different.
For those who are vulnerable —
for women, for the young, for immigrants and refugees —
always on high alert.
For those caught in power systems they cannot change,
working to exhaustion yet forced to thank their boss for the privilege.
For those who care for others,
both meeting needs and investing in their well-being.
For those making new connections,
for communities growing through friendship and commitment,
for networks of care that hold us fast.
May your persistent generous grace encircle all your people,
that wherever we look we see your goodness in the land of the living.
We ask these and all things in the name of Jesus the Christ
who taught us to pray together:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever.
Amen.
Sanctuary Hymn 737: Will Your Anchor Hold
Sanctuary Hymn 703: National Anthem
Benediction
And as you go, may the Spirit of God go above you to watch over you. May the Spirit of God go beside you to be your companion. May the Spirit of God go before you to show you the way, and behind you to push you into places you might not go alone. And may the Spirit of God go within you, to remind you that you are loved more deeply than you can possibly imagine. May the fire of God’s love burn brightly in you, and through you into the world. Go in peace. Amen.
Sung Benediction Response (John L Bell, tune Gourock St John’s)
Now may the Lord of all be blessed,
Now may Christ’s gospel be confessed,
Now may the Spirit when we meet
Bless sanctuary and street.
Postlude Music
Announcements
* You are invited to join in reading the Bible in a year for 2022 — immersing ourselves in God’s word throughout the year. We get together to discuss each week on Wednesday at 7:30pm in the manse at 6 Barrhill Road. All are welcome, no experience necessary! Feel free to invite a friend, too! Anyone who has ever wondered just what the Bible actually says and what it has to do with us is welcome.
* On Sunday 16 October, in the evening, we’ll be hosting a BIG SING, with the Connect+ singing group! The group will lead us in short songs from around the world, including songs from Iona, Taize, various countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, and will guide us in harmonies and rhythms we didn’t know we could do. It will be a wonderful evening of making a joyful noise. No experience necessary, no need to read music, just the willingness to join in!
* We are hosting an October holiday club for Primary aged children, 18-20 October, on the theme “Life in Plastic, NOT Fantastic: Caring for God’s Good Earth.” More information and registration is available at our website. If you are interested in volunteering in any way — whether helping shepherd groups, cooking lunch, providing leadership, or a little light decorating, please contact Teri!
* All worship is online (or on the phone at 01475 270037, or in print) and we also meet in the sanctuary at 11am. If you are able, please enter by the front door in Bath street, and only those who need step-free access should use the back door. If you feel unwell, please worship online, to protect both yourself and others in our community.
* The Kirk now has online giving! If you have not already set up a standing order in order to facilitate your spiritual discipline of giving, or if you would like to make an extra gift to support the ministry St. John’s does in our parish, you can give online by clicking here. If you would like to set up a standing order, please contact Peter Bennett, our treasurer, or Teri and she can give you his details. You can also send your envelopes to the church or the manse by post and we will ensure they are received. Remember: no one is coming to your door to collect your envelopes, so please stay safe!
* Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Youtube, and to sign up for our email devotions! Midweek you can watch Wine and the Word on Youtube, pray with video devotions on Facebook, and consider a new angle on something with a devotional email. Feel free to share with your friends, too!
* Youth Organisations have begun! If you or anyone you know is interested in the Boys Brigade (P1 – S6), please contact Alan Aitken or 2ndgourock (at) inverclydebb.org.uk. If you or anyone you know is interested in the Brownies or Girl Guides, please visit the website to register. For the Smurfs, our youngest girls, please contact Teri and ask to be put in touch with the leader.
*Young Adult Bible Study meets in the manse on the 2nd and 4th Sundays — at 7pm for a meal and a study of the gospel according to John. If you’d like more information, for yourself, a family member, a friend, or neighbour who is in their 20s, please contact Teri for the dates/times and other information.
*Philip is organising a choir for any interested singer to come and have fun, learn some of the new hymns, and sing sometimes in worship. Please contact Philip for more information: philipnor617@gmail.com
*TOMORROW 3 October, is the next Bowl and Blether — come along for a bowl of soup and a chat with friends and neighbours! if you’re interested in volunteering either in the kitchen or in welcoming/hospitality/serving, please speak to Teri.
