Opening Announcements
Good Morning and Welcome to Worship! Worship is often the first place that new people come into contact with this growing community of faith. And so, if you are joining us for the first time, I say to you what is said every Sunday: You are welcome here. Here is a place where all are welcome. For such is the love of God for God’s Very Good Creation.
Order of Worship
[please stand as you are able]Praise God from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below; praise God above, ye Heav'nly host: praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
Good Shepherd, you call us by name, and we know your voice. You have become the gate by which we come and go freely to enjoy life and have it abundantly.
We pray for the whole church, that we may devoted to following your way of life and love being generous to all who have need.
Shepherding God, in a dangerous world, let us hear your voice and may we boldly follow you beyond the gate.
We pray for the earth, for green pastures and still waters, that we may restore them to the goodness and purity that they once had at the time you created them.
Shepherding God, in a dangerous world, let us hear your voice and may we boldly follow you beyond the gate.
We pray for the people of the world, their nations, and leaders, that your wisdom and peace may govern all, so that no one is living in fear.
Shepherding God, in a dangerous world, let us hear your voice and may we boldly follow you beyond the gate.
We pray for all those in need, for those in want, those ill and those dying, that we may be the banquet that you set before them as we anoint them, feed them, and comfort them in your name.
Shepherding God, in a dangerous world, let us hear your voice and may we boldly follow you beyond the gate.
We pray for ourselves, our families, and those we love. May no one live in fear, may all dwell in your presence.
Shepherding God, in a dangerous world, let us hear your voice and may we boldly follow you beyond the gate.
Blessed are you, great Shepherd, who, through Jesus the Christ, and the Holy Spirit, teach us your way of goodness and mercy, you lead us down right paths, and restore us. Amen.
Loving God, we pray that your Holy Spirit will strengthen us to be devoted to the teachings of your Word, that through it we may hear your voice and follow it all the days of our lives. Amen.
Jesus the Good Shepherd 1 “Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5 They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6 Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. 7 So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and bandits, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
There is a cacophony of voices in the world today, many of whom are claiming to speak for Jesus or even portray themselves as Jesus. These voices seek to steal us or steal from from us by luring us beyond the safe enclosure. How do you determine whom you are listening to? Have you been listening to those who would steal from you or do you harm? What does The Good Shepherd’s voice sound like to you?
Church, the pasture has been prepared for us and it is filled with lush offerings. Let us then share with God what God has already shared with us as our way of listening to the Shepherd’s voice.
Holy and generous God, you are the Good Shepherd who seeks our well- being and joy. You have called us by name and we are yours. Bless these gifts that we share this day that they may be used to expand the reach of your pastures and pride comfort for more beside your still waters for any and all who need your comfort and restoration. Amen.
My siblings, may the Good Shepherd who calls you by name lead you out to green pastures and lead you back into the safety of the fold. Amen.
Music Team
Prayer Requests
Johan Dodge
Our Pastor will be seeing a vascular surgeon this week to treat a recent vein injury in his leg. Prayers for a simple diagnosis, easy treatment, and quick recovery.
Noemi Albulario
Noemi, a cancer survivor (and Dave’s mom!), recently had several medical scans and tests. She is grateful for your love. Prayers for good results and a clean bill of health.
Paul Polk
Jeanette Williams’ cousin, Paul, is in in ICU with pneumonia, affecting his immune system. He had a lung transplant four years ago, and doctors are working to find the right medication for his condition. Prayers for him and the family.
Mara Williams
Mara recently had carpal tunnel surgery. Prayers for healing, speedy recovery.
Marina Tesla
Marina is being treated for symptoms of pain and appreciates your prayers and concern. Please continue to pray for relief from pain and stress. Cards and phone calls are welcome.
Notes & Announcements
Today’s flowers are provided by Sandy Cardot. Fellowship refreshments are provided by Marina Tesla. See the sign-up charts for 2026 to provide refreshments or cover the cost of altar flowers for future services. Altar flowers are $25. See Phyllis Spencer to coordinate arrangements.
On Thursday, April 30th at 10 AM, join us for “Coffee with Pastor.” Every Thursday, we invite you to join Pastor Johan and other members of our congregation for a relaxed time to discuss any questions you may have, current events, or just to get something off your chest. Come share coffee & conversation.
Our gratitude once again to the lovely Kara Brouelette for raising her beautiful voice to lead our Worship music last Sunday and today with our wonderful pianist Hannah Yi.
Precious Life Shelter benefits pregnant women with no place to live. The generosity of LWCC has enabled them to continue to save babies, “one mother at a time.” Here is their wish list: For the Babies: Brushes and combs, baby powder, teethers, small books, rattle toys, travel size soap, baby shampoo, infant shoes. Administrative Needs: White 20 lb copy paper, 33-gallon black drawstring trash bags, ziplock storage bags (gallon & quart), paper towels, toilet paper, painter’s tape, packing tape, duct tape, zip ties (12" to 14"), batteries (AA & 9 Volt), “forever” postage stamps. Please leave items in the red box marked “Precious Life Shelter” next to the Food Donation area in the narthex. While our food donations are open to all, we ask that these items remain strictly as donations to Precious Life. Thank you!
Photos
Prayer Journal
Use this prayer in your time with God each day.
Generous God, thank you for the gift of this new day. Help me to watch for your signs and wonders in the world today, and fill my heart with gladness and generosity, that I may generate good will wherever I go. Amen.
Thank you, God, for shepherding me through the day. As I lie down to sleep this night help me to imagine green pastures and still waters, and to remember all the ways you have set a table before me and filled my cup to overflowing. Amen.