Liturgy and worship aids
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Examination of conscience
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
Here is a sample of a list of sins from a solemn assembly that was compiled by the preparatory team who had met in prayer for weeks before the larger gathering. You will want to go through the same preparatory process to compile your own list, but this one, taken and added to from HeartRest is a helpful start to you in compiling your own list for a bulletin insert. You will want to add printed directions regarding what you want people to do with this list during your solemn assembly.
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A service for the reaffirmation of the baptismal covenant
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
This liturgy for the Reaffirmation of Baptism, including the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, was used by the Worship and Spiritual Renewal Committee of the 218th General Assembly (2008) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in San Jose, California. This was the committee that discussed and approved the overture for solemn assemblies.
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A service for renewal
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
This service for solemn assemblies is a more informal, experiential service particularly suited for gatherings in flexible spaces. Whenever and however you decide to do it, you need to prepare for the service like any other renewal service.
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Confessional materials
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
Confessional materials for solemn assembly's extended examination.
You may also find other materials that will be helpful to you elsewhere in Theology and Worship and in the Book of Common Worship.
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Planning for a Renewal Service: A Chronological Checklist
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
There is more than one “right” way to go about planning a solemn assembly or spiritual renewal service. In some ways the preparation for the service will be just like the preparations made for any other worship service in the congregation’s life together.
You might want to design a timeline such as the one we’ve created. Adapt this schedule according to the needs and interest of your congregation or presbytery.
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The Confession of Sin in Reformed Worship
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
One of the hallmarks of the Reformed liturgical tradition is the prominence of the confession of sin in public worship. Gathered in the presence of the holy, triune God, we immediately recognize our unrighteousness and brokenness in the light of God’s glory.
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"Down by the Jordan" hymn
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
A hymn for Baptism of the Lord Sunday by Carolyn Winfrey-Gillette.
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Baptized into Mission
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
This sermon is provided for ideas. While you’re welcome to use what’s helpful, please do so remembering that the Lord called you to serve your people where they are.
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Variations on the French Reformed Church Baptismal Liturgy
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Theology and Worship
For several decades, variations on a portion of the French Reformed Church baptismal liturgy have been used in PC(USA) congregations. When infants are baptized, the minister addresses the child directly, proclaiming the sure promise of God. The Office of Theology and Worship provides these examples, noting that no single set of words is "right." Pastoral judgment may lead to particular variations.
Whatever words are used, the pastor should address the child directly, and should strive to speak rather than read.
Related pages:
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Baptism of our Lord Sunday service
From Presbyterian Mission Agency—Worship
A service for Baptism of the Lord Sunday with a renewal of baptismal vows and holy communion.