August 17 - Sanctuary Worship Bulletin
First Presbyterian Church – St. Petersburg, Florida
Order of Worship – 11 a.m. Sanctuary Service
August 17, 2025 – Tenth Sunday After Pentecost
Blessing of the Backpacks/Baptism
Rev. Robert Galloway
Prelude: “Two Preludes on American Hymn Tunes” (Amazing Grace and Nettleton), Gilbert M. Martin (b. 1941) - Jack Rain, organ
Welcome & Announcements - Rev. Robert Galloway
Call to Worship - Robert Galloway
We gather as witnesses to God's faithfulness.
We come seeking our Lord and creator.
We come with child-like wonder.
We stand in awe of the mighty works of the God of heaven and earth.
Christ calls us to see what is before us;
it is the kingdom of God.
Let us worship with open hearts,
ready for God's transforming word.
*Hymn #354: “Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory” BATTLE HYMN
Call to Confession - Helen Shaw
Prayer of Confession (unison) - Helen Shaw
Merciful God, you pardon all who truly repent and turn to you. We humbly confess our sins and ask your mercy. We have not loved you with a pure heart, nor have we loved our neighbors as ourselves. We have not done justice, loved kindness, or walked humbly with you, our God. Have mercy on us, O God, in your loving-kindness. In your great compassion, cleanse us from our sin. Do not cast us away from your presence, or take your Holy Spirit from us. Restore to us the joy of your salvation and sustain us with your bountiful Spirit.
Assurance of Pardon - Helen Shaw
…Friends, believe the good news: In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!
Passing the Peace - Helen Shaw
…The peace of Christ be with you. And also with you.
*Response #582: “Glory to God Whose Goodness Shines on Me” (v. 1) GLORY TO GOD
Baptism: Anya Mossman
Time for Young Disciples: Blessing of the Backpacks - Robert Galloway
Prayer for Illumination - Robin Lyle
First Scripture Reading: Hebrews 11:29-12:2 - Robin Lyle
Sermon Scripture: Luke 12:49-56 - Robert Galloway
…The word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
Sermon - Robert Galloway
*Hymn #136: “Go Tell it on the Mountain” GO TELL IT
Presentation of our Gifts – Invitation - Robin Lyle
…Please join me in a unison Prayer of Dedication:
Gracious God, we offer these gifts as a symbol of our trust in your faithfulness. We dedicate these offerings to your kingdom work. Use these gifts to support the work of justice and mercy in our community and world. Help us to give our whole selves in service to others in your name. May these gifts kindle hope and healing wherever they are needed. We pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Offertory Solo: “Canzonetta,” Op. 19, Gabriel Pierné (1863–1937) - Abigail Aldas, clarinet
*Doxology OLD HUNDREDTH
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer - Robert Galloway
*Closing Hymn #718: “Take Up Your Cross, the Savior Said” BOURBON
Charge & Benediction - Robert Galloway
Postlude: “Dialogue,” Gilbert M. Martin (b. 1941) - Jack Rain, organ
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Announcements:
Today, August 17
A Stephen Minister is available at the close of this service
Informational meeting for the congregation about upcoming improvements to campus and facility security, directly following this worship service.
Wednesday, August 20
Praise Band Rehearsal, 7 p.m., Youth Center
Friday, August 22
Men's Lunch Bible Study, 12 p.m., via Zoom
Sunday, August 24
Childcare available 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Pickups, Room S-203
Connect Service, 9 a.m., Youth Center
Power Hour class, 10 a.m., Church Office Conference Room
Children’s Sunday School, (Pre-K-5th), 10 a.m., S-203
Faith Journey class, 9:45 a.m., Chapel
New Member Inquirer’s Class, Part 2, 10 a.m., SPPS Office (note new location!)
“Next” Adult class, 10 a.m., Room N-123
Upcoming Events:
Monday, September 1, Church Office closed for Labor Day