F i r s t S u n d ay a f t e r C h r i s tm a s D ays e v e n t h s u n d ay o f e a s t e r

t h e t w e n t y-f o u rt h d ay o f m ay, 2 02 0

3180 peachtree road, ne . atlanta, georgia 30305 . www.prumc.org

THE GATHERING

Carillon Prelude Sally Westmoreland

† At the sound of the bells, please prepare your hearts and minds for worship.

Morning WorshipMay 24, 2020 . 11:15 aM

Minister: May the love, mercy, and grace of God the Creator, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit the Sustainer be with you.

People: And also with you.

Minister: Creating God, from the dust of the earth you have made us and breathed the breath of life into us.

People: You have created us into your image, and shaped us into your likeness

Minister: You have endowed us with abilities and reasoning that separate us from other created things.

People: Human life reflects the power of your ability and the depths of your love

Minister: Remind us each day through your Holy Spirit that life is a gift from you. People: And help us to honor this most precious gift you have given unto us.

The Call to Worship

The Greeting

We welcome each of you to this service! We pray that this time together will be a blessing in your life.

Opening Voluntary Dies sind die heil’gen zehn Gebot, BWV 678 J.S. Bach (1685-1750)

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

Hymn of Praise, 577* God of Grace and God of Glory CWM Rhondda

Harry Emerson Fosdick, 1930

Pastoral Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Concerns and Celebrations of the Congregation

† The people are seated.

**

Prayer of Confession*

Let us confess our sins before God and one another.

Creator God, we confess that we do not always honor life as you have commanded us. Daily we hear the news of lives being snuffed out from one corner to another in our society. There seems to be no regard for the sanctity of life, or for honoring you. We confess there is an ease in which a person can destroy life that you have created, because the law says it is okay. But we are not courageous enough to resist or confront, and we have often remained silent in the face of such evil.

Forgive us we pray. Remind us each day of the sacredness of all life, and of your commandment to honor it. Help us to see you in each other, so we will truly treasure this precious gift you have given. Amen.

Hear the good news: God is merciful and gracious, long-suffering and abounding in love. God has endowed you with the gift of life, and has given you the capacity to honor every life. In the Name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.

In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Glory to God! Amen.

Children’s Moments with the Minister

Gloria Patri* Charles Meineke

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

The Act of Remembrance *

PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD

At the Offertory,* † An offering is collected to support the work of Peachtree RoadUnited Methodist Church sharing God’s love with the world.

The Gospel Lesson* Matthew 5:21-24 † following the reading Minister: The Gospel of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God!

At the Presentation* Hymn 95 Tune: Old Hundredth

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise Him, all creatures here below; praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

Sermon Thunder on the Mountain: Honoring Life

Anthem Set me as a seal René Clausen(b. 1953)

Song of Solomon 8:6

Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm, for love is strong as death. Many waters cannot quench love; neither can the floods drown it.

Peachtree Road Staff Singers

Prayer*

Affirmation of Faith The Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord: who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

RESPONSE TO THE WORD

Ministry of Music At the river Robert Lowry (1826-1899)

arr. Aaron CoplandShall we gather by the river, where bright angels’ feet have trod, with its crystal tide forever flowing by the throne of God. Yes, we’ll gather by the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river, gather with the saints by the river that flows by the throne of God. Soon we’ll reach the shining river, soon our pilgrimage will cease, soon our happy hearts will quiver with the melody of peace. Yes we’ll gather by the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river, Gather with the saints by the river, That flows by the throne of God.

Clarke Harris, soloist

Response* Christ is risen! Shout Hosanna! Celebrate this day of days. Christ is risen! Hush in wonder; all creation is amazed. In the desert all surrounding, see, a spreading tree has grown. Healing leaves of grace abounding bring a taste of love unknown.

Choir and Congregation

Altar Flowers: If you would like to make a donation in honor or in memory of a loved one, please contact Linda Schutte at 770.329.2075.

* Stand as you are able. ** Ushers will seat all those who are waiting. Please turn off all mobile and electronic devices while in the Sanctuary.

Closing Voluntary Praeludium in C, BuxWV 137 Dieterich Buxtehude(1637-1707)

For information on upcoming worship services please visit www.prumc.org.

Peace* Minister: The peace of the Lord be always with you. People: And also with you.

SENDING FORTH

Benediction*

Preaching: Rev. Bill Britt, Senior Minister Matthew 5:21-24

Liturgists: Rev. Daniel Ogle, Associate Minister Rev. Geoff Beakley, Associate Minister

Music: Oliver Brett, Associate Organist and Choirmaster Peachtree Road Staff Singers

Complete details at www.prumc.org. Join us on Facebook and Instagram.Sign up to receive our weekly Enewsletter at prumc.org.

ANNOUNCEMENTS . MAY 24, 2020

WORSHIPWORSHIP LIVE @prumc.org Today Memorial Day SundayMay 31 Pentecost

Ten Commandments Sermon SeriesTo find inspiration for a new beginning, we turn to the basics of our faith — the Ten Commandments. Hear God's message in a new light and reflect upon this framework for our faith. Together we will discover new ways to live as Christians.

Sunday Worship Service11:15 am, prumc.orgJoin in the worship of God and the fellowship and support of this community. We are live online each Sunday morning at prumc.org.

1|99 for YouthSundays, 4:00 pm, Zoom Join us for games, prizes, and a message of hope. Visit prumc.org for details.

ON DEMAND @prumc.orgSunday CommunionClergy-led blessings let us break bread together and affirm our connectedness as Christians. We post a new Eucharist video each Sunday.

Worship Companion LessonEnjoy recorded lessons that dive deeper into each week's sermon theme. Consider the message individually or discuss as part of your online Sunday School class each week.

Wednesday Midweek MessageTake a moment midweek to pause for prayer, inspiration, and solace. Our clergy offer a new, relevant video message each week.

Archives and PodcastsVisit our "Worship on Demand" options at prumc.org to watch videos of sermons and services, listen to or download sermon podcasts, or access worship bulletin PDFs.

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENTThe Epic of Eden: A Christian Entry into the Old TestamentWednesdays, 10:30 am, ZoomDr. Sandra Richter's video series gives exciting new facts and perspectives on the history of God's redeeming grace. This series will organize your understanding of the Old Testament and renew your enthusiasm for studying the Bible as a whole. Visit prumc.org/zoom for details.

New! Study of ActsFridays, 8:00 am, ZoomJoin Rev. Elizabeth Byrd for this 5-week study on the book of Acts. Visit prumc.org/zoom for details.

Dimanche en Provence (Sunday in Provence):Jill Steenhuis WebinarSunday, June 7, 12:30 pm, ZoomDuring this special webinar from her home in France, international artist Jill Steenhuis will share her artistic talents and the story of her faith journey with us and audience members from around the world! Visit prumc.org for details.

PRAYERPrayers for the TimesWe are offering a daily prayer series to address the current needs of the world. The PRUMC clergy offer a meaningful, relevant prayer each day by email. To subscribe, visit prumc.org/daily-prayer.

Clergy-Led Open Prayer Circle Monday - Friday, 7:15 - 7:30 am, ZoomWe believe in the power of prayer. In these significant times, help us bring hope, healing, and heart to each other and the world through daily prayer. Visit prumc.org/zoom for details.

Online Prayer Requests"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6–7). Please submit your prayer requests at prumc.org/pray.

COVID-19 CHALLENGE FUND

If you are looking for an opportunity to help your church during this time of change, we would be grateful for your support. Our COVID-19 Challenge Fund is a matching gift opportunity that will allow us to continue serving our congregation and community. Thank you for your help in keeping our ministry strong. To give, please visit prumc.org/give or send a check marked "COVID-19 Challenge Fund" to the church offices.

BE IN COMMUNITYWe Want to Connect with You!Recently, we’ve been making an effort to call or intentionally connect with each member of our congregation. We want to know how you are doing, if you or anyone you know needs prayer, and whether we can be of help to you and your family. If you have not received a call or been in conversation with your Sunday school class or small group, please contact Lisa Huni at lisah@prumc.org or 404.240.8226.

A MESSAGE FROM RON GREERKnowing God’s Grace While Sheltering-in-PlaceWith his characteristic compassion, empathy, and humor, Ron Greer examines both the emotional struggle of this era and how best to respond to the challenges it brings. His words build a helpful framework for how we might approach stress, anxiety, loneliness, and grief and remind us that "in every challenge...we are never beyond the reach of God's grace." To view or read this message, visit prumc.org.

OPERATIONSCommemorative Bricks & Pavers AvailableEngraved bricks and pavers in memory or honor of a loved one are now available for $125. For more information, please contact Cecelia O'Flinn at ceceliao@prumc.org.

LOCAL OUTREACHWays We Can HelpThank you for the outpouring of offers to help those in need during this time. Our community partners continue their efforts to manage and offset the financial hardships of their clients. Most of those needing aid are hourly wage earners. As you know, our community outreach partners need our help now more than ever. Thank you for being a light of hope in this extraordinary time. Visit prumc.org/ways-we-can-help for details on these continued efforts:

Sponsor Food for Healthcare ProvidersMember Volunteer MatchSenior Food ServiceAgape Gift CardsCovenant House Food DonationsCrossroads Atlanta Sack LunchesTrinity Wish List DonationsHopeWorks Groceries or Yardwork

UPDATE! Your Recent Gifts Helped...

• Deliver 3,300 baked goods and 280 meals to Piedmont and Grady Healthcare workers.

• Deliver over 45 gallons of ASW hand sanitizer to Agape and Trinity ministries.

• Provide 150 sack lunches to Covenant House and Clyde's Kitchen each week.

• Deliver groceries and complete yardwork for over 20 widows.

• Deliver groceries to over 10 PRUMC seniors.

GLOBAL MISSIONS

We couldn't be happier to announce that thanks to you, The Dogwood Shop has sold over $18,000 in merchandise during this time of physical distancing! That's $18,000 that will help us complete life-enriching and even life-saving Global Missions projects in 2020. Your support has been remarkable and speaks volumes about the loving spirit and generosity of you, our church family. We are grateful — thank you!

If you'd like to check out our newest summer items and continue your wonderful support of Global Missions, please visit thedogwoodshop.org today!

PASTORAL CARE REPORT View the daily pastoral care report at prumc.org.

In Hospital and Care FacilitiesManorCare RehabBarbara Haines PiedmontJenny Cross

Recently DischargedRev. Don Harp

Sympathy toThe family of Jo Nelle Taylor on her death on May 14.Katie Mori and family on the death of her mother on May 14.

Please note: no visitations allowed in all facilities until further notice. Thank you.

MEN

Virtual Community Groups for MenThe Men's Ministry of Peachtree Road recognizes the impact of these trying times. Virtual small groups are forming to connect, offer support, and pray for one another. To join a group or for more information, contact Geoff Beakley at geoffb@prumc.org.

Wednesday & Friday Morning Men’s Fellowship and Bible Study | 7:00 am, ZoomCome and be encouraged in your faith! Topical discussion and Bible study led by Geoff Beakley, no preparation necessary. For more information, contact Geoff Beakley at geoffb@prumc.org.

PRUMC DELIVERSMeals Available for Pick-Up or Delivery Chef Bob & Team's casseroles, soups, and baked goods are available for curbside pick-up or delivery — all made to order! Order information available at gourmetinnovationsinc.com.

Dogwood Curbside Pick-Up or DeliveryFind that perfect gift from our website, thedogwoodshop.org! You may now have your orders shipped anywhere in the US! Your order can also be delivered to your home (Atlanta area) or be available for curbside pickup. All proceeds support PRUMC Global Missions.

CONNECT ONLINE

Studies & Small GroupsVisit prumc.org/zoom for more information on the listings below.

Sundays10:00 am Sunday School for All Ages10:00 am 6th Grade Discussions4:00 pm 1|99 Youth Gathering

Mondays7:15 am Open Prayer Circle

Tuesdays7:15 am Open Prayer Circle4:00 pm HS Senior Discussions5:00 pm HS Junior Discussions

Wednesdays7:00 am Men’s Group7:15 am Open Prayer Circle10:30 am Journey Together4:00 pm HS Sophomore Discussions5:00 pm HS Freshmen Discussions7:00 pm Chancel Choir Rehearsal7:30 pm Young Professionals

Thursdays7:15 am Open Prayer Circle 10:30 am Stepping Stones4:00 pm 8th Grade Discussions5:00 pm 7th Grade Discussions

Fridays7:00 am Men’s Group7:15 am Open Prayer Circle8:00 am Study of Luke

CONNECT THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook.com/prumcInstagram.com/prumcPrumc.smugmug.comVimeo.com/prumcvideoYoutube.com/user/ThePRUMC

LenbrookJ.J. Joseph