8

STRC Staff

Pastor: Rev. Jeffrey Neevel Minister of Music & Arts: Chanelle Schaffer Church Administrator: Dawn Wheatley Comissiong Operations Administrator: Vicky Gomez Christian Maintenance Supervisor: Charles Edwards STRC @ LPCC Directors: Noel Regalado and Lucy Sutton Website Manager: Phyllis Carrozza

Contact Information Office Phone 340-776-8255

Street Address 2105 Crystal Gade # 5 St. Thomas, VI 00802-6661 Mailing Address PO Box 301769 St. Thomas, VI 00803

Website: www.stthomasreformedchurch.org Email: mail@stthomasreformedchurch.org STRC “APP” free from iTunes and Google Play

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stthomasreformedchurch/

PRAYER REQUESTS THIS WEEK*: In gratitude for Doris Comissiong celebrating her 100th birthday! For Hannah Upp, Georgia Ann Murphy and those missing since Irmaria. Linares Warell, his family and his enemies. Pray for peace. Peace for Brad & Barbara Shingleton and their daughter Rebecca and

husband Kevin, who tragically lost their 6-week old daughter Margot. Silas Wisehart who needs to pass rigorous medical tests this week to

continue his Coast Guard Academy training. For healing and hope: Edye Ciaccia's brother in law Ron diagnosed with

lung cancer; Dr. Mark Livingston; Marilyn Salmon (surgery on July 22 for lung cancer); Dr. Ron Nimmo’s brother James; Chris Jordan’s father Dick recovering from open heart surgery.

For new beginnings: For David and Jennifer (Dave Haddow’s goddaughter) as they exchange the vows of matrimony and begin their new life together. May God bless them with love, health and happiness in marital bliss.

*If you would like prayers added to our Sunday prayer list please contact Pastor Jeff at mail@stthomasreformedchurch.org or call the church office at

340-776-8255

St. Thomas Reformed Church

July 7, 2019

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Founded in 1660

All are welcome

In the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ

2

“ We Gather In God’s Presence...” Prelude Music (Please take time to prepare for worship and silence electronic devices)

Greeting and Ministry Updates

Introit “Prayer of Thanksgiving” Knox/Wilson

We kneel in wonder before your presence, O God of mercy, power, and might

The earth is filled with your glory; the heavens reflect your light: Alleluia!

Accept our praises for all your goodness surrounding us to bless us each day

Receive our song of thanksgiving, your grateful children pray: Alleluia!

Call to Worship - Lisa Fuentes

Our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth! Amen!

We gather in the name of the living Christ to worship God. Surely, God is in this place and calls us to worship in spirit and in truth. God’s love is for you and for all people everywhere. May we be renewed in the refreshing Spirit of the living Christ, and share in the joy of life with God.

Prayer *Hymn # 22 ‘All Creatures of Our God and King’ LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Call to Confession - Michelle Carson Unison Prayer of Confession

Holy One, why is it that we can grow so weary of doing what is right, yet always energetically do that which we know is harmful to us and others? Forgive us when we fail in our walk of faith. Rather than letting our sins gloat over us, Healing God, we would open ourselves to your mercy and grace. As you reach out to heal us with your forgiveness, may we embrace your love, your mercy, your grace for our lives. As you pour out your Spirit of gentleness, may we bring the peace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to all the world…

Fourth Sunday After Pentecost The liturgical color today is green representing the growth and mission of the church!

7

WELCOME… today we celebrate Doris Comissiong 100th birthday! Today we also celebrate the baptism of Lena Joanne Brown, daughter of Daren & Lynnsy Brown, and great, grand-niece of Doris Comissiong. Bathrooms are in the Undercroft and inside the gate going to Bakery Square. Summer Camp 2019 begins tomorrow! Please keep the campers and the following staff in your prayers:

GIVING THANKS: Leading Worship Today:

Ministers: All the people of the church Preaching: Rev. Jeff Neevel Liturgists: Michelle Carson, Tina Comissiong, Lisa Fuentes Music: Chanelle Schaffer, Courtney Reese, YouthSong (Flame Gonzalez, Grace King, Kamui Nieves), Amy & David Himes, Tama McConnell, Tate DeWalt, Rachel Himes-DeWalt Greeters/Ushers: Joel Comissiong, Gabriella Dickson, Dr. Adam Flowers, James Boschulte III, Natalia Figueroa, Jeffrey Boschulte Audio/Video: James Cobb

Lectionary Scripture Readings for this week: Amos 7: 7 - 17 Psalm 82

Deuteronomy 30: 9 - 14 Psalm 25: 1 - 10 Colossians 1: 1 - 14 Luke 10: 25 - 37

Director: Brittany Bryan

Teachers: Bible – Roxanne Rhymer Music – Tama McConnell Recreation – Tate DeWalt

Swim – Rachel Himes Arts & Crafts – Amy Stewart Himes

Counselors:

Joshua Gomez Jessica Gibbs

Gregory Christian Sonrisa O’Neal

Junior Counselors: Diego Villegas

Gabriel Christian Jaela Auguste Solyce O’Neal

Swim Staff:

Haley Jennings Isabel Villegas

David Dawson III

Helper: Carlotta Bartolome

6

HAPPY 100th BIRTHDAY, DORIS!

Doris Comissiong was born on July 8, 1919 to Leslie and Maud Proudfoot. Although the family was from the Virgin Islands, Doris was born in

Colon, Panama. Her father, like many, had gone to Panama for work. He was an employee of the Cable & Wireless company and the job required

travel between Panama, Peru and other Central American countries. In those days the poor living conditions in those countries made it an unsafe

environment to raise children. Because of this, Doris' mother, Maud, returned to St. Thomas with Doris, a toddler and

pregnant with her second child Elaine.

Doris attended Ms. Stevenson Elementary School and eventually the Charlotte Amalie High School from which she graduated in 1937. She later

received an Associate degree from the Catholic University in Puerto Rico in 1963.

On December 1, 1938 Doris married Albert Comissiong. Lifelong friend

Nina Corneiro was in attendance. Nina's husband, Phillip, gave the bride away. Together, Doris and Albert had five children: Maxine, Joel, Brenda, Kathleen and Sidney, who were all raised in St. Thomas. Her sister Elaine married Hugo Reese and they had four children. The cousins lived close

by and were able to grow up with each other.

Doris worked at the VI Cooperative, an establishment that sold native handicrafts. She later worked for the Virgin Islands Government in both the

Department of Finance and the Government Employee Retirement System. After retirement in the early 1970's, Doris and Albert, traveled

extensively, visiting the 7 continents.

"D" has had a long history with the St Thomas Reformed Church (formerly known as the Reformed Dutch Church). She was baptized in the sanctuary on July 5, 1921. She attended Sunday School as a little girl, was married in

the church and had all five of her children baptized in the church. For many years she was responsible for preparing the communion elements for

Communion Sunday. She single handedly produced the church bulletin and frequently prepared the weekly refreshments for fellowship after service.

Doris loves singing and for many years was a member of both the Caribbean Chorale and the church choir.

When not traveling, much of her retirement has been spent nurturing her

12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. She would pick up her grandchildren after school, teach them about making local treats like pates,

sweet bread and pepper sauce and share with them many stories of her travels and the Virgin Islands of "long ago."

3

Response ‘Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God’ Townend/Getty

Words of Assurance and Hope YouthSong Anthem "All the People Said Amen" Maher

Celebration of the Life of Doris Comissiong

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,

When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost Count your many blessings, name them one by one

And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done Count your blessings, name them one by one

Count your blessings, see what God hath done, Count your blessing – name them one by one.

Count your many blessings – see what God hath done

UNDER HIS WINGS Under His wings I am safely abiding

Though the night deepens and tempests are wild Still I can trust Him - I know He will keep me

He has redeemed me and I am His child. Under His wings, under His wings, who from His love can sever?

Under His wings my soul shall abide, safely abide forever

4

“ ...To Hear God’s Word…”

Scripture - Tina Comissiong Psalm 66

Message: Series on Gratitude in the Psalms (1 of 4)

PASS ME NOT O GENTLE SAVIOR Pass me not , O gentle Savior, hear my humble cry

While on others Thou art calling, do not pass me by Savior, Savior, hear my humble cry

While on others Thou art calling, do not pass me by

TELL ME THE OLD, OLD STORY Tell me the old, old story of unseen things above

Of Jesus and His glory, Of Jesus and His love. Tell me the story simply, as to a little child

For I am weak and weary, and helpless and defiled. Tell me the old, old story, tell me the old, old, story

Tell me the old, old story of Jesus and His love.

GENTLE JESUS MEEK AND MILD Gently Jesus, meek and mild, look upon a little child;

Pity my simplicity, suffer me to come to thee Lamb of God, I look to Thee, Thou shalt my example be;

Thou art gentle, meek and mild, thou was once a little child I shall then show forth Thy praise, serve Thee all my happy days

Then the world shall always see Christ the Holy Child in me

Celebration of New Life in Baptism (see insert) *Hymn # 552 ‘Standing On the Promises’ Carter

“...And Respond with Gratitude!”

Offering Offertory "O, Sing Unto the Lord" Sorenson/Ward

* Doxology

5

A Celebration of Communion (All who profess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are welcome at the table. Beginning with the back pews, you are invited to come forward using the side aisles, break off a piece of bread and dip your bread into the cup. Then return to your seat using the center aisle.)

Communion Music "Thanksgiving Song" Carpenter/Purifoy

Grateful for each hand we hold Gathered round this table.

From far and near we travel home, Blessed that we are able.

Grateful for this sheltered place

With light in every window, Saying "welcome, welcome, share this feast

Come in away from sorrow."

Father, mother, daughter, son, Neighbor, friend and friendless;

All together everyone in the gift of loving-kindness.

Grateful for what's understood, And all that is forgiven;

We try so hard to be good, To lead a life worth living.

Father, mother, daughter, son,

Neighbor, friend, and friendless; All together everyone, let grateful days be endless.

*Thanksgiving after Communion

*The Lord’s Prayer (The congregation is invited to stand, join hands and sing)

*Benediction

… Depart in peace

4

“ ...To Hear God’s Word…”

Scripture - Tina Comissiong Psalm 66

Message: Series on Gratitude in the Psalms (1 of 4)

PASS ME NOT O GENTLE SAVIOR Pass me not , O gentle Savior, hear my humble cry

While on others Thou art calling, do not pass me by Savior, Savior, hear my humble cry

While on others Thou art calling, do not pass me by

TELL ME THE OLD, OLD STORY Tell me the old, old story of unseen things above

Of Jesus and His glory, Of Jesus and His love. Tell me the story simply, as to a little child

For I am weak and weary, and helpless and defiled. Tell me the old, old story, tell me the old, old, story

Tell me the old, old story of Jesus and His love.

GENTLE JESUS MEEK AND MILD Gently Jesus, meek and mild, look upon a little child;

Pity my simplicity, suffer me to come to thee Lamb of God, I look to Thee, Thou shalt my example be;

Thou art gentle, meek and mild, thou was once a little child I shall then show forth Thy praise, serve Thee all my happy days

Then the world shall always see Christ the Holy Child in me

Celebration of New Life in Baptism (see insert) *Hymn # 552 ‘Standing On the Promises’ Carter

“...And Respond with Gratitude!”

Offering Offertory "O, Sing Unto the Lord" Sorenson/Ward

* Doxology

5

A Celebration of Communion (All who profess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are welcome at the table. Beginning with the back pews, you are invited to come forward using the side aisles, break off a piece of bread and dip your bread into the cup. Then return to your seat using the center aisle.)

Communion Music "Thanksgiving Song" Carpenter/Purifoy

Grateful for each hand we hold Gathered round this table.

From far and near we travel home, Blessed that we are able.

Grateful for this sheltered place

With light in every window, Saying "welcome, welcome, share this feast

Come in away from sorrow."

Father, mother, daughter, son, Neighbor, friend and friendless;

All together everyone in the gift of loving-kindness.

Grateful for what's understood, And all that is forgiven;

We try so hard to be good, To lead a life worth living.

Father, mother, daughter, son,

Neighbor, friend, and friendless; All together everyone, let grateful days be endless.

*Thanksgiving after Communion

*The Lord’s Prayer (The congregation is invited to stand, join hands and sing)

*Benediction

… Depart in peace

6

HAPPY 100th BIRTHDAY, DORIS!

Doris Comissiong was born on July 8, 1919 to Leslie and Maud Proudfoot. Although the family was from the Virgin Islands, Doris was born in

Colon, Panama. Her father, like many, had gone to Panama for work. He was an employee of the Cable & Wireless company and the job required

travel between Panama, Peru and other Central American countries. In those days the poor living conditions in those countries made it an unsafe

environment to raise children. Because of this, Doris' mother, Maud, returned to St. Thomas with Doris, a toddler and

pregnant with her second child Elaine.

Doris attended Ms. Stevenson Elementary School and eventually the Charlotte Amalie High School from which she graduated in 1937. She later

received an Associate degree from the Catholic University in Puerto Rico in 1963.

On December 1, 1938 Doris married Albert Comissiong. Lifelong friend

Nina Corneiro was in attendance. Nina's husband, Phillip, gave the bride away. Together, Doris and Albert had five children: Maxine, Joel, Brenda, Kathleen and Sidney, who were all raised in St. Thomas. Her sister Elaine married Hugo Reese and they had four children. The cousins lived close

by and were able to grow up with each other.

Doris worked at the VI Cooperative, an establishment that sold native handicrafts. She later worked for the Virgin Islands Government in both the

Department of Finance and the Government Employee Retirement System. After retirement in the early 1970's, Doris and Albert, traveled

extensively, visiting the 7 continents.

"D" has had a long history with the St Thomas Reformed Church (formerly known as the Reformed Dutch Church). She was baptized in the sanctuary on July 5, 1921. She attended Sunday School as a little girl, was married in

the church and had all five of her children baptized in the church. For many years she was responsible for preparing the communion elements for

Communion Sunday. She single handedly produced the church bulletin and frequently prepared the weekly refreshments for fellowship after service.

Doris loves singing and for many years was a member of both the Caribbean Chorale and the church choir.

When not traveling, much of her retirement has been spent nurturing her

12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. She would pick up her grandchildren after school, teach them about making local treats like pates,

sweet bread and pepper sauce and share with them many stories of her travels and the Virgin Islands of "long ago."

3

Response ‘Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God’ Townend/Getty

Words of Assurance and Hope YouthSong Anthem "All the People Said Amen" Maher

Celebration of the Life of Doris Comissiong

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,

When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost Count your many blessings, name them one by one

And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done Count your blessings, name them one by one

Count your blessings, see what God hath done, Count your blessing – name them one by one.

Count your many blessings – see what God hath done

UNDER HIS WINGS Under His wings I am safely abiding

Though the night deepens and tempests are wild Still I can trust Him - I know He will keep me

He has redeemed me and I am His child. Under His wings, under His wings, who from His love can sever?

Under His wings my soul shall abide, safely abide forever

2

“ We Gather In God’s Presence...” Prelude Music (Please take time to prepare for worship and silence electronic devices)

Greeting and Ministry Updates

Introit “Prayer of Thanksgiving” Knox/Wilson

We kneel in wonder before your presence, O God of mercy, power, and might

The earth is filled with your glory; the heavens reflect your light: Alleluia!

Accept our praises for all your goodness surrounding us to bless us each day

Receive our song of thanksgiving, your grateful children pray: Alleluia!

Call to Worship - Lisa Fuentes

Our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth! Amen!

We gather in the name of the living Christ to worship God. Surely, God is in this place and calls us to worship in spirit and in truth. God’s love is for you and for all people everywhere. May we be renewed in the refreshing Spirit of the living Christ, and share in the joy of life with God.

Prayer *Hymn # 22 ‘All Creatures of Our God and King’ LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Call to Confession - Michelle Carson Unison Prayer of Confession

Holy One, why is it that we can grow so weary of doing what is right, yet always energetically do that which we know is harmful to us and others? Forgive us when we fail in our walk of faith. Rather than letting our sins gloat over us, Healing God, we would open ourselves to your mercy and grace. As you reach out to heal us with your forgiveness, may we embrace your love, your mercy, your grace for our lives. As you pour out your Spirit of gentleness, may we bring the peace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to all the world…

Fourth Sunday After Pentecost The liturgical color today is green representing the growth and mission of the church!

7

WELCOME… today we celebrate Doris Comissiong 100th birthday! Today we also celebrate the baptism of Lena Joanne Brown, daughter of Daren & Lynnsy Brown, and great, grand-niece of Doris Comissiong. Bathrooms are in the Undercroft and inside the gate going to Bakery Square. Summer Camp 2019 begins tomorrow! Please keep the campers and the following staff in your prayers:

GIVING THANKS: Leading Worship Today:

Ministers: All the people of the church Preaching: Rev. Jeff Neevel Liturgists: Michelle Carson, Tina Comissiong, Lisa Fuentes Music: Chanelle Schaffer, Courtney Reese, YouthSong (Flame Gonzalez, Grace King, Kamui Nieves), Amy & David Himes, Tama McConnell, Tate DeWalt, Rachel Himes-DeWalt Greeters/Ushers: Joel Comissiong, Gabriella Dickson, Dr. Adam Flowers, James Boschulte III, Natalia Figueroa, Jeffrey Boschulte Audio/Video: James Cobb

Lectionary Scripture Readings for this week: Amos 7: 7 - 17 Psalm 82

Deuteronomy 30: 9 - 14 Psalm 25: 1 - 10 Colossians 1: 1 - 14 Luke 10: 25 - 37

Director: Brittany Bryan

Teachers: Bible – Roxanne Rhymer Music – Tama McConnell Recreation – Tate DeWalt

Swim – Rachel Himes Arts & Crafts – Amy Stewart Himes

Counselors:

Joshua Gomez Jessica Gibbs

Gregory Christian Sonrisa O’Neal

Junior Counselors: Diego Villegas

Gabriel Christian Jaela Auguste Solyce O’Neal

Swim Staff:

Haley Jennings Isabel Villegas

David Dawson III

Helper: Carlotta Bartolome

8

STRC Staff

Pastor: Rev. Jeffrey Neevel Minister of Music & Arts: Chanelle Schaffer Church Administrator: Dawn Wheatley Comissiong Operations Administrator: Vicky Gomez Christian Maintenance Supervisor: Charles Edwards STRC @ LPCC Directors: Noel Regalado and Lucy Sutton Website Manager: Phyllis Carrozza

Contact Information Office Phone 340-776-8255

Street Address 2105 Crystal Gade # 5 St. Thomas, VI 00802-6661 Mailing Address PO Box 301769 St. Thomas, VI 00803

Website: www.stthomasreformedchurch.org Email: mail@stthomasreformedchurch.org STRC “APP” free from iTunes and Google Play

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stthomasreformedchurch/

PRAYER REQUESTS THIS WEEK*: In gratitude for Doris Comissiong celebrating her 100th birthday! For Hannah Upp, Georgia Ann Murphy and those missing since Irmaria. Linares Warell, his family and his enemies. Pray for peace. Peace for Brad & Barbara Shingleton and their daughter Rebecca and

husband Kevin, who tragically lost their 6-week old daughter Margot. Silas Wisehart who needs to pass rigorous medical tests this week to

continue his Coast Guard Academy training. For healing and hope: Edye Ciaccia's brother in law Ron diagnosed with

lung cancer; Dr. Mark Livingston; Marilyn Salmon (surgery on July 22 for lung cancer); Dr. Ron Nimmo’s brother James; Chris Jordan’s father Dick recovering from open heart surgery.

For new beginnings: For David and Jennifer (Dave Haddow’s goddaughter) as they exchange the vows of matrimony and begin their new life together. May God bless them with love, health and happiness in marital bliss.

*If you would like prayers added to our Sunday prayer list please contact Pastor Jeff at mail@stthomasreformedchurch.org or call the church office at

340-776-8255

St. Thomas Reformed Church

July 7, 2019

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Founded in 1660

All are welcome

In the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ