Sunday, July 26, 2026
Ninth Sunday after Pentecost | Year A
Genesis 29:15-28 | "What is This?"

Call to Worship (inspired by Psalm 105)
One: Give thanks to the Holy One. Make God's deeds known among the peoples.
Many: We call upon the name of the Holy One!
One: Give thanks to the Holy One. Tell of all God's wonderful works!
Many: We sing praises and remember the wonderful works, miracles, and judgements!
One: Give thanks to the Holy One. Glory in God's holy name!
Many: We seek the Holy One, and our hearts rejoice! Praise the Holy One!

Invocation
Gracious God, you have made yourself known among us. When we seek you, we find you. You surround us with love and righteousness. Your presence strengthens and upholds us. While we gather together, let us be mindful that your wisdom speaks, your power fuels, and your heart fills us. Grant us discernment. Let us be faithful. May you be glorified.  Amen.

Prayer for Transformation and New Life
Glorious God, may your face shine upon us. Teach us your ways so that we may live in peace, justice, and righteousness. Keep our way steady and directed toward you. Remove the hold of oppression and evil from among your people. Transform our hearts and minds so that we might reflect your goodness and love in the world. Amen.

Words of Grace
Servants of God, the Holy One radiates grace and mercy. By the power of Love and Spirit, receive the opportunity to redeem and repair every mistake, every passive participation, every deliberate action that has caused harm. Receive God's forgiveness in order to be released from shame and release to make things right. Nothing can separate us from God's love. 

Invitation to Generosity
We are privileged to participate in the construction of the kindom of God. Through our gifts, we follow the model of God's generosity, we express our hope for a better future, and we tangibly love our neighbor. Let us give with joy and expectation that our gifts are met with God's magnifying power.  

Prayer of Dedication and Thanksgiving
Generous God, may these gifts be sufficient to meet the needs before. May we be good stewards of your resources. And, may we be moved to live the generous life more deeply and completely in every aspect of our lives. Amen.

Benediction (Inspired by Matthew 13)
As you go, carry the kindom of God with you
Like mustard seeds ready to be planted 
Along your journey
Like the greatest treasure
That may be shared without limit
Like a net of love 
Cast widely and deeply
Go, in peace and hope for the glory of God 

What is This?: Service Prayers for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost Year A was written by the Rev. Dr. Cheryl A. Lindsay, Minister for Worship and Theology for the United Church of Christ.