November 2nd Worship Service

Last Friday we celebrated Halloween, which reaches back several thousand years to a season where the climate shifted from the fall harvest into the cold gloom of winter. The Celts of Ireland, United Kingdom and northern Europe believed during the shift the thin vail between the living on earth and spiritual world allowed for the transfer from one realm to the other.

On Saturday we celebrated All Saints Day. Reaching back about 1,500 years this is a time of remembrance for those who have passed from this life into the next. Originally focused on the saints who have been cantonized, the day evolved into including all who had died, emphasizing the Roman Catholic belief that all who are in heaven are “saints” and have been redeemed by God.

Today, November 2 we are celebrating All Souls Day.  This is a very Catholic celebration.  It focuses on those who have passed, but have not yet reached the realm of heaven.  Revolving around special thoughts and prayer it is to help those who are in purgatory as they prepare to enter into heaven. 

Gathering Music:                                      Donna Nelson

“It Is Well With My Soul”

Announcements:                                          Chris Buchanan             

Call To Worship:                                                             Pastor Bob Ramos

Songs of Praise:                                                              Praise Team

 "Send Me"

"Sing"

Congregational Prayer:                                   Pastor Bob Ramos

Scripture:                                      Susan Elder

Luke 12:13-21

Message:                                                                          Pastor Ron Urzua

"Am I Still Rich Toward God?"

Communion: Pastor Ron / Pastor Bob

Dedication of Offerings:                                                Veronica Rios

Doxology:                                                                   Praise Team

Closing Song: Praise Team

“Be Thou My Vision”

Blessing:                                                              Pastor Ron

Ron Urzua, Pastor

Bob Ramos and Rob Schleef, Commissioned Lay Pastors

Music Director: Aleeya Flores

Accompanist: Donna Nelson

While not very protestant the holiday has evolved in many instances into a meeting day for family and friends to get together to remember those who have passed. It is a time to tell stories, remember fond traits, habits, attitudes and the feelings we had about those who influenced our lives.

The day has taken on special meaning in our Mexican neighbors as Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead). While academics are unsure whether this festival reaches back to the ancient Aztecs or was brought from Spain to create a common bond bringing the communities together it has caught hold in Hispanic culture. Along with family and friends gathering to remember those who have died often memorials are created in the home, or at grave sites honoring those who have passed. Flowers and gifts of food are common.

Join us for our November 2 Worship Service.

Photos: traditional day of the dead alter Milpa Alta Mexico City / Catrina female character created by Guadaluoe Posadas / Cempasuchil flower