WEBSTER GROVESPRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Service for the Lord’s DayNovember 24, 2019

10:30 a.m.

OUR MISSIONWe seek to live Christ’s love,

welcome all people and joyfully serve God.

1

Service for the Lord’s DayWhen this symbol precedes an element of the service, please rise in body or spirit.

Prelude: Sonata “Saint Mark” arr. HickmanStonehenge Brass

WELCOME AND COMMUNITY LIFEAll are encouraged to sign and pass the Friendship Pads at the ends of the pews. As the music begins, let us use this time for quiet reflection and prayer, so that we, individually and as a great crowd of witnesses, may prepare ourselves to reaffirm our faith as the people of God.

GATHERING FOR GOD’S WORD

GATHERING SONG “Come and Give Thanks” Shackley Stonehenge Brass

CALL TO WORSHIP David Knight, Liturgist

Leader: We gather on this holy day,People: for we have seen Love crucified and raised.Leader: We gather around a font and a table,People: for we have known Joy through water and bread.Leader: We gather around an ancient story,People: for we have heard Truth in the words of the Scriptures.Leader: We gather around the Holy Spirit,People: who enlivens our hearts for the worship of God!

HYMN #263 “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” CORONATION

CALL TO CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God of wonder and might,Forgive us when we put our faith in earthly powerinstead of in your promises.You call us to work for your reign in this world,“on earth as it is in heaven.”Forgive us when we take those words as a platitudeinstead of a pledge.Forgive us, O Lord.Move us and challenge us to be servants of peace and justice.

2

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

PASSING THE PEACE OF CHRIST Addison Demko, Liturgist

Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us forgive one another.The peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.And also with you.

RESPONSE TO GOD’S GRACE “Come, Great God of All Ages” HYFRYDOL

Come, great God of all ages; make your earthly mission known;speak through every deed and person; let your way and will be shown.Guide the church to true commitment; give direction now, we ask;fit us for the work of building; dedicate us to the task.

PROCLAIMING GOD’S WORD

SCRIPTURE CONVERSATION Rev. Ed Zumwinkel

PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION David Knight, Liturgist

READING FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT Jeremiah 23:1-6 Pew Bible pg. 725

ANTHEM “God Has Called Us” Hobby Chancel Choir

READING FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT Luke 22:33-43 Pew Bible, pg. 87

SERMON Rev. Edwin Zumwinkel

SILENCE FOR REFLECTION

RESPONDING TO GOD’S WORD

THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISMKatherine and Matthew Stocke present their daughter

Lyla Josephine

PRESENTATION

PROFESSION OF FAITH

APOSTLES’ CREEDLeader: Do you believe in God, the Father almighty?

3

All: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

Leader: Do you believe in Jesus Christ?All: I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only son our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,born of the Virgin Mary,suffered under Pontius Pilate,was crucified, died, and was buried;he descended to the dead.On the third day he rose again;He ascended into heaven,He is seated at the right hand of God,And he will come to judge the living and the dead.

Leader: Do you believe in the Holy Spirit?All: 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.

THANKSGIVING OVER THE WATER

THE ACT OF BAPTISM

LAYING ON OF HANDS AND ANOINTING

WELCOMELeader: Let us welcome them together:All: With joy and thanksgiving, we welcome you, into Christ’s church;for we are all one in Christ.We promise to love you, encourage you, and support you, to share the good news of the gospel with you,and to help you know and follow Christ.

Leader: The peace of God be with you. All: And also with you.

PRAYER FOR INTERCESSION

All: The Lord is our righteousness.

OFFERING INVITATION

PRESENTATION OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY “The Promise of the Living” Copland / Morales Stonehenge Brass

4

DOXOLOGY “Come, Great God of All the Ages” HYFRYDOL

Come, Christ Jesus, flesh and spirit; sure foundation, cornerstone;help us form the church eternal; may your vision be our own.Send a message to each follower; lead all people to your way;urge us to strong faith and action as we build the church today.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

HYMN #268 “Crown Him With Many Crowns” DIADEMATA

CHARGE

BENEDICTION

BENEDICTION RESPONSE “Come, Great God of All Ages” HYFRYDOL

Come, great Spirit, in and with us, tune our ears to hear your call;through the moving of your presence, let redeeming love recall ministry in dedication, love embodied in our deeds; challenge us to do your bidding, see your purpose, fill all needs.

POSTLUDE “Grand Valley Fanfare” Ewazen Stonehenge Brass

You are invited to remain seated for today’s Postlude.

Please welcome our next guests in our Music In A Great Place Series,

Stonehenge Brass!

The group is comprised of:

John Korak – TrumpetJason Harris – Trumpet

Matt Frederickson – TromboneSteve Hanrahan – HornCasey Kahaler - Tuba

5

Worship NotesSome prayers and liturgical texts for worship are provided by:

BIBLIOGRAPHY Book of Common Worship. (2016). Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press.Call to Worship. (2018). Louisville: Office of Theology and Worship of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

Feasting On The Word. (2012). Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press.

Family Bios

Emily and Pete Odum reside in Webster Groves with their three kids: Trudy (6), Peter George (3) and Millie (4 months). Because of their love for the WGPC early childhood center, where they sent Trudy for preschool, they decided to join the Church and have fallen in love with it as well. Pete is a marketing manager at Edward Jones and Emily is a stay at home mom and currently serves on the WGPC Early Childhood Center Commission. 

Matt and Katie Stocke live in Glendale with their three daughters Frankie (7), Phoebe (5) and Lyla (20 months). They began attending services at Webster Groves Presbyterian while Katie was working for the church.  Both Frankie and Phoebe attend Sunday evening Holy Moly and Whirl classes and Katie volunteers with Celtics. After years of participating in activities and services, they decided to become members of the church. The church's constant focus on mission outreach, social issues and fellowship are some of the reasons why they were drawn to Webster Presbyterian Church. They are excited to continue their faith journey here. 

THOSE WHO SERVE TODAYUshers: Glenn Seitz, Renee Bennett, Dan Egley, Karen Imse, Art Kramer, Janice & Steve Seele

Denise Thomas, Mike Kearney (Group Leader)

Greeters: Glenn Seitz, Joan Evans, Mabie Family

Office Volunteer: Jim Gloeckner, Mary Gloeckner

Liturgist: Pete Putnam, David Knight, Addison Demko

Flower Delivery: Anne Carpenter, Ann & Wayne Spohr

Sunday Snack: Anne Carpenter

6

WORD OF WELCOMECHILDREN ARE ALWAYS WELCOME IN WORSHIP AT WGPC! Worship Activity Bags are located at each entrance to the Sanctuary.

NURSERY CARE While some children prefer to stay with their parents in worship, others enjoy the opportunity to meet new friends, play and learn stories from the Bible. Mrs. Robin is ready to greet your child with a happy smile and a generous spirit. The nursery is open from 8:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If there are no children in the nursery by 11:30 a.m., the nursery room will remain open for parents and children to enjoy together. There will be no nursery attendants on duty.

CHILDREN AND YOUTH MINISTRIES Children and youth are not forgotten at WGPC! Classes, activities and fellowship opportunities designed with them in mind happen most Sunday evenings. Please refer to the calendar for ages and times, or contact Cherstin Byers at chb@wgpc.org for more information.

LARGE-PRINT BULLETINS AND HYMNALS, hearing devices, and cushions are also available. One of our ushers would be happy to assist you.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO SIGN THE FRIENDSHIP PADS located at the end of each pew.

WATER AND LOZENGES Got a tickle in your throat? Relax. Just head to the Narthex (back of the sanctuary) where the ushers have water and lozenges for your comfort.

CHANCEL FLOWERS The chancel flowers are given to the Glory of God and in memory of Virginia, Gene, and Jim Johanson, the gift of their family.

MINISTRY STAFF

Pastor: Rev. Edwin Zumwinkel IIIAssociate Pastor: Rev. Hannah ZylaPastoral Assistant for Congregational Care: John RawlingsDirector of Music Ministries/Organist: Shawn PortellMusic/Organist Assistant: Ted CronbaughDirector of Youth and Family Ministries: Brian KuhnInterim Director of Youth and Family Ministries: Summer KohringDirector of Early childhood Center/ Nursery Coordinator: Robin CannonMission Outreach Coordinator: Beth KazlauskasConnections Coordinator: Tracey RapisardoBusiness Administrator: Jan ScheurerSenior Staff Assistant: Valerie HamptonAssistant for Children, Youth, and Family Ministries: Cherstin ByersCustodial Supervisor: Pete Brennan

efz@wgpc.orgParental Leavejdrtsn@gmail.comspp@wgpc.orgted.cronbaugh@gmail.comOn Sabbaticalslk@wgpc.orgrwc@wgpc.orgbok@wgpc.orgtar@wgpc.orgjls@wgpc.orgvph@wgpc.orgchb@wgpc.org(314)-962-9210 ext 3212

7

45 West Lockwood AvenueWebster Groves, MO 63119

www.wgpc.org(314)-962-9210

OUR UPCOMING COMMUNITY LIFE TOGETHER

8

9

10

A Message From Environmental Stewardship…

Christmas Tree History

Evergreen – a symbol of renewal. Long before the advent of Christianity, evergreen plants held special meaning in wintertime. Many ancient peoples believed that the sun was a god and that winter came every year because the sun god had become sick and weak. The people celebrated the Winter Solstice because thereafter, the days would become longer and brighter; the sun god was getting well. Evergreen boughs reminded them of the green that would emerge as the sun god strengthened. For example, at the Solstice, when the sun god Ra began to recover from his illness, the ancient Egyptians filled their homes with green palm rushes, symbolizing the victory of life over death. In honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture, early Romans celebrated the Saturnalia feast at the time of Solstice. The Romans decorated their homes and temples with evergreen boughs, to mark the coming green fields. The Scandinavian Vikings believed evergreens were the special plant of the sun god, Balder.1 Scandinavians decorated the house and barn with evergreens to scare away the Devil and also set up a tree for the birds during the dark winter solstice.

Christmas Tree German Origins

The Christmas tree, specifically, is said to have originated in Germany. One legend attributes the tradition to Martin Luther. Walking in the woods one evening, he wanted to share with his wife the beauty of the stars shining through the trees. He cut down a fir and brought it home, placing lighted candles on the branches as a symbol of the beautiful Christmas sky. More likely is that the Christmas tree emerged from two German customs. The primary prop of a popular Medieval play about Adam and Eve was a “Paradise Tree,” a fir tree hung with apples, that represented the tree of knowledge in the Garden of Eden. The Germans set up a Paradise Tree in their homes on December 24, the religious feast day of Adam and Eve. They hung wafers (later replaced by cookies), symbolic of the Eucharist host. Candles, symbols of Christ, were often added. In the same room was 1 According to Norse legend, Balder was the son of Odin and the goddess Frigga. The blind god Hod, deceived by Loki, killed Balder by handing him mistletoe, the only thing that could hurt him (which fact Loki had learned by tricking Frigg). Frigg was so distraught that her tears turned to white berries, coating the plant and symbolizing her love for him. Independent, Friday, 18 December 2015.

11

the Christmas Pyramid, a triangular construction of wood that had shelves to hold Christmas figurines and was decorated with evergreens, candles and a star. By the 16th century, the Paradise Tree and the Christmas Pyramid merged, becoming the Christmas tree. The custom gradually became deeply rooted in Germany, and was taken to North America by early German settlers.

Christmas Tree DissentersAlthough the Christmas Tree grew increasingly popular, not everyone was in favor of the growing tradition. Oliver Cromwell preached against “the heathen traditions” of Christmas carols, decorated trees, and any joyful expression that desecrated the sacred day. The New England Puritan Governor William Bradford wrote that he sought to stamp out the “pagan mockery” of the tree. Indeed, in 1659, the General Court of Massachusetts enacted a law making any observance of December 25 (other than a church service) a penal offense; people were fined for hanging decorations.

Evolution of the Modern Christmas TreeThe Victorian era saw the popularization of the Christmas tree. In 1846, Queen Victoria and her German-born husband Prince Albert, were sketched in the Illustrated London News standing with their children around a Christmas tree. The custom of the tree became fashionable. The Victorian tree became more elaborately decorated, with toys, candies, popcorn strings and paper chains. Blown glass ornaments were offered for sale in the United States and Britain as early as the 1870s. F.W. Woolworth was selling $25 million in ornaments annually by 1890.

Sources: Encyclopedia Britanica, “Christmas tree, Holiday decoration,” www.Brittanica.com; History of Christmas Trees, Original October 27, 2009, updated September 12, 2018, History Channel, www.history.com.

12

NOW ACCEPTING POINSETTIAS ORDERS!! Order forms are available in the pew pockets, the bulletin, church office and Fellowship Hall. The cost is $10. Deadline to order is Sunday, December 8th. You may order flowers for the sanctuary and your home. Poinsettia’s for your home (which benefit the Nicaraguan scholarship fund) must be picked up, Thursday December 12th from 3 to 7pm in Fellowship Hall.

Flowers purchased for the sanctuary may be picked up and brought home after the 11pm service on Christmas Eve.

When paying by check, indicate “poinsettia order” in the memo line. You may also order and pay online – if you do, please indicate the number of plants, whether they are for the sanctuary, the home/ scholarship fund, or both. If your order is for the sanctuary and you’d like, please indicate whether it’s in memory of or in honor of someone special.

Poinsettia Order Form Name of

purchaser:_________________________________________________ _____ Number of poinsettias @ $10 each for SANCTUARY (please fill in information below) _____Number of poinsettias @ $10 each the Home / Nicaraguan scholarship fund

In Honor of: ___________________________________________________________________

In Memory of: __________________________________________________________________

Please place the form and your payment in the offering plate or in Valerie Hampton’s mailbox in the church office.As an alternative, you may order and pay online. Please indicate all information above when placing the order.

13

DEADLINE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

14

15

FAITH FORMATION INFORMATIONCHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRIES meeting today

Infant – PreK: Nursery 8:15 a.m. – noon 1st floor nursery

PreK-3rd Grade: Children’s Choir 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. Room 208

4th & 5th Grade: Celebration Bell Ringers 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. Room 207B

After today’s Children’s Music rehearsals all children and their families are invited to Agape Dinner Theater in the Fellowship Hall at 5:15 p.m.

Visit wgpc.org or contact Cherstin Byers (chb@wgpc.org) for more information and to receive newsletter emails about children’s and youth activities.

ADULT EDUCATION meeting today16

November 24 - Cory Knoblauch, Forest ReLeaf  Join us as we continue to celebrate God's gift of trees and learn more about Forest ReLeaf of Missouri. Forest ReLeaf operates the only nonprofit community-assisted tree nursery in the region and since its inception in 1993 has planted more than 200,000 trees throughout Missouri and Illinois. They have increased the tree canopy in low-income areas and assisted with reforestation after major weather disasters.

17

Growing Faith !!

2020 campaign

Goal: $1,078,706.00

Current Pledges: $421.201.00

In addition, 30% of the pledges usually received have been submitted. In 2018,  40% of families submitted their pledge on In-Gathering Sunday, submitting  42% of the total pledges received. Please remember to submit your pledge to the business office or bring your pledge to In-Gathering on 11/24/19. Extra pledge cards are available in the end of the pews!   

WGPC Audit PerformedOn October 14, 2019 the board of trustees received the following financial opinion from the firm of Anders CPAs and Advisors: "In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Webster Groves Presbyterian Church as of December 31, 2018 and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America." In other words, the results are "clean" which is what you want! Special thanks to Business Administrator Jan Scheuerer and financial assistant Joyce Kimmons for the many hours coordinating with the audit firm.

WGPC has been one of the last to offer a worship service on Thanksgiving Day.  For those who participated, it was a nice centering time of gratitude to God for our blessings.  However, worship attendance at that service has been declining for a number of years.  We have reached the point where it is no longer good stewardship of resources to continue that service.  This year, instead of a worship service held at church, we will provide a Thanksgiving liturgy for you to download and use at home. 

Sunday, 24 November

8:30 a.m. – Informal Worship 9:30 a.m. – Diving Deeper9:30 p.m. – Faith in Real Life10:30 a.m. – Traditional Worship/In Gathering10:30 a.m. – Music In A Great Place4:30 p.m. – Children’s Choir5:15 p.m. – Celebration Bell Ringers5:15 p.m. – Agape Dinner Theatre

Monday, 25 November

10:30 a.m. – Ely Ringers4:00 p.m. – Prayer Ministry

Tuesday, 26 November

6:30 a.m. – Tuesday Prayer Meeting9:30 a.m. – Staff Meeting10:00 a.m. – ECC Thanksgiving Feast

Wednesday, 27 November

9:00 a.m. – Mom’s Group

Thursday, 28 November

All Day – Thanksgiving Holiday

Friday, 29 November

All Day – Thanksgiving Holiday

Saturday, 30 November

9:00 a.m. – Al Anon

Sunday, 01 December

8:30 a.m. – Informal Worship 9:30 a.m. – Advent Cafe10:30 a.m. – Traditional Worship4:30 p.m. – Celtics4:30 p.m. – Children’s Choir4:30 p.m. – Celebration Bell Ringers5:15 p.m. – Pageant Rehearsal7:00 p.m. – Agape

18

Give-A-Meal-A-Month December Menu

Donation towards a holiday turkey($2.50 or any amount to WGPC memo Turkey)Canned Sweet PotatoesCanned Peas – no or low saltCanned Mixed Fruit – lite or in fruit juiceBox of au gratin potatoes

Additional NeedsBaby foods

(fruits, vegetables, cereals, meats)

“I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11

CHILDREN'S OFFERING: This fall, the children’s offering will be collected to purchase piglets through the Presbyterian Mission Agency.  Our goal is to gather $160--enough for four piglets to help provide families with an important safety net and emergency source of income.

  Thank you. We can’t say it enough. As you celebrate Thanksgiving we on the Stewardship Commission want to thank each of you for your commitment to our Church and the gifts you bring to our Church. We thank each of you for your contributions to the vibrancy and growth of our Church and response to God’s grace.  Happy Thanksgiving!  

19