United Congregational Church of Southern Africa

Book of Occasional Services CONTENTS

...... Page

Acknowledgments and Notes 3

Order for the Introduction and Placement of an Intern...... 4

Order for the (Ordination and) Induction of a Minister...... 7

Order for the ending of a Pastoral Ministry...... 16

Order for the Recognition of a Church Extension Charge...... 19

Order for the Formation of a Local Church...... 22

Order for a Service of Corporate Reconciliation...... 25

Order for the Dedication of a Church Building 28

Order for the Dedication and Unveiling of a Tombstone...... 31

Order for a Wedding Service 33

Order for a Funeral Service 38

Order for Confirmation of Baptismal Vows...... 49

2 Book of Occasional Services ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Worship and Liturgy Unit UCCSA Mission Council 2001

Notes:

1. Many of the orders herein can be incorporated into standard orders of service, with the specific applicable sections added, generally after the readings and before or after the sermon.

2. PROCESSIONAL ORDER Where there is a processional hymn, the (closed) Bible may be brought into the church at the head of the procession. It should be placed on the reading lectern and then opened. At the commencement of the recessional hymn the procedure may be reversed and the Bible carried out (closed) at the head of the procession.

2.1 The processional order following the Bible is as follows: Choir Visiting deacons Local deacons Person whose rite is celebrated (Intern, Ordinant, Inductee, etc.) Visiting clergy Interns and Ministers of the UCCSA Officers of the Region/Synod/UCCSA Preacher Officer officiating Person conducting the Service 3. Wherever possible services have been designed to afford full opportunity to deal with all announcements and thanks at the beginning of the service. This will obviate the sense of anti-climax, which can be caused by lengthy speeches after the celebration, which tend to dissipate the poignancy and intensity of the occasion. 4. Wherever ‘Region’ is referred to, ‘Synod’ may replace it, as appropriate. We have attempted to use non-sexist language, except for personal pronouns, where ‘he’ can mean ‘she’ and vice versa. 5. The order for the funeral service follows the same order as the one already available in Afrikaans. 6. The wedding service has been designed to comply with legal requirements in the RSA. 7. A computer copy of this booklet or appropriate portion thereof is obtainable from the Denominational offices, so that customised services can be developed from the basic services herein.

3 Book of Occasional Services Order for the Recognition and Placement of an Intern

Conducted by Regional Moderator

1. Organ Prelude

2. Processional Hymn

3. Welcome, Thanks and Announcements

4. Greeting and Call to Worship Leader: Grace and peace to you from God our Creator and the Lord Jesus Christ People: Grace and peace to you also. All: Rejoice for God is among us. Give thanks, for in Christ we are a new people Sing praise, for we come to worship God.

5. Introit

6. Purpose Leader: In the UCCSA there is a two-year period between completion of one’s ministerial studies and ordination by the church. In this time ministerial candidates undergo a supervised internship in a local church. It is a time to learn as well as to serve. The local church receives the services of the Intern but also releases the Intern for times of study and supervision sessions.

The Intern’s supervisor is …...... , who will expect to meet at least monthly with him. Each year the Intern will attend a UCCSA Intern Retreat. You are a teaching church. While the intern needs courage and enthusiasm, the congregation needs patience and understanding to help him grow in ministry. The internship represents an agreement to walk together for the next two years, to journey together in faith and commitment.

7. Prayer Leader: Let us pray. O God of all creation, we offer thanksgiving and praise to you on this festive day. We give you thanks for those who responded to your call to establish this church. Help us to preserve the best of our past and to be open to new vision. Bless the union made today between this congregation and ..... , who will serve you. May they together continue to be a sign of your Spirit, and a witness to Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray and who taught us to pray together: All: The Lord’s Prayer

8. Scripture Readings

9. Hymn

4 Book of Occasional Services 10. The Charges to the Intern and to the Local Church.

11. Act of Recognition of the Intern

11.1 Affirmation by the Intern (The Moderator will invite the Intern and the Supervisor to stand before him.) Moderator: In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the King and Head of the Church, and in his presence, we are met as a congregation and as a Regional Council, in order to set apart ..... as the Intern of this congregation.

The Moderator addresses the Intern: Moderator: Do you confess again your faith in our three-in-one God? Intern: I do.

Moderator: Do you confess anew Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour? Intern: I do.

Moderator: Do you believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments contain all things necessary for eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ? Intern: I do.

Moderator: Do you accept this placement of internship in this church? Intern: I do.

Moderator: Do you promise, with God’s help, to conduct the worship of this church, reside at its meetings, and care for its people faithfully during the time of your internship? Intern: I do, with the help of God.

Moderator: Do you promise to work with your Supervisor and the Director of Training, to seek their guidance, receive their support, and communicate regularly with them? Intern: I do, with the help of God.

The Moderator addresses the Supervisor: Moderator: Do you, ...... , promise to support ...... , to guide him, to support him, to maintain regular contact with him, and to report regularly on your relationship to the Region, through the Ministerial Committee? Supervisor: I do, with the help of God.

11.2 Affirmation by the local congregation and the Region Moderator: Will all present please stand. Do you, the members of this congregation and of the ..... Regional Council accept ...... as an accredited Ministerial Intern of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, and do you promise to support and encourage him in this work? Congregation: We do, with the help of God. Moderator: May the God of Grace who has called you to Christian faith and service, strengthen you with the Holy Spirit and keep you faithful to Christ all your days.

5 Book of Occasional Services All: Amen

The Moderator addresses the Intern: Moderator: I offer you (and your spouse, .....) the right hand of fellowship, and invite visiting ministers and deacons of the local church to join me in this welcome and affirmation.

As we do that the congregation will sing the next hymn on the Order of Service.

12. Hymn

13. Anthem, during which the Offertory will be received

14. Prayer Here will follow the following individual prayers  Thanksgiving,  Intercession for the church (in particular the newly-formed congregation and its leaders)  And for the world.

15. Benediction (All standing) Chairperson: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, Keep your hearts and minds In the knowledge and love of God and of Jesus Christ And the blessing of God Almighty remains with you always. All: Amen

16. Recessional Hymn

6 Book of Occasional Services Order for the [Ordination and] Induction of a Minister

Conducted by Regional Moderator with, if possible, participation by the General Secretary

1. Organ Prelude

4. Greeting and Call to Worship Leader: Grace and peace to you From God who was, and is, and is to come, And from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, And the sovereign of the rulers on earth.. People: To God be glory in the church And in Christ Jesus to all generations, Forever and ever. Amen.

3. Introit

4. Prayers of Adoration, Repentance and Forgiveness - ending with: Leader: Lord, have mercy on us. People: Christ have mercy on us. Leader : Lord have mercy on us All: In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Forgive us all that is past, And grant that we may serve you in newness of life To the glory of your name. Amen.

5. Scripture Readings After the Old Testament and Epistle Leader: This is the Word of the Lord People: Thanks be to God.

After the Gospel Leader: This is the Good News of Christ. People: Praise to Christ our Lord.

6. Statement by the Presiding Minister In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the king and head of the Church, and duly authorised by the Assembly of the United Congregationalist Church of Southern Africa, we are gathered [to ordain ...... to the ministry of Word and Sacrament; and] by the authority of the ..... Regional Council to confirm ...... [him] as minister of this congregation.

A minister is called to proclaim the Word of God, to teach and encourage the congregation, and to call them to repentance to God, through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. A minister serves the congregation in the administration of the Sacraments. He cares and loves his congregation in such a way that they may grow in grace, and in the knowledge and love of the Lord, and become a light in the world. Ordination to this 7 Book of Occasional Services holy service rests on God’s calling, which is acknowledged and confirmed by the Church of Christ. We come now [to set apart ..... to this holy calling,] to hear from the ..... Church how they have called / decided in consultation with the.... Region to accept his placement to labour among them, to hear from .... of his assurance that God has called him [to this charge], of his faith and of his intention to be a faithful pastor to this congregation.

7. Statement by the Representative of .... Church The representative will give a short account of decisions and actions leading to this occasion.

8. Affirmation by the Ordinant / Minister Leader: My brother, ...... Seeing that through grace God has called you to be a minister, that you have already given proof of your ministry, that this church has been led to call /accept you to its pastorate, and that now we about to commit its charge to you, I ask you in the name of the Church:

Are you persuaded that God has called you to be an ordained minister of the Church of Christ, and are you ready with the help of God to enter this ministry and to serve faithfully in it? Answer: I am.

Do you believe in the one triune God, and in Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord? Answer: I do.

Do you believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament contain all things necessary for eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ? Answer: I do.

Do you believe that you are truly called by God to the pastoral oversight of this congregation? Answer: I do.

Do you reaffirm your assent to the constitution of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, and do undertake to continue to exercise your ministry in accordance with it? Answer: I do.

Do you promise as a minister of the United Congregational Church to continue to be subject to its government, and to take the part entrusted to you in the administration of its affairs? Answer: I do.

May Almighty God, who has called you into this holy ministry, grant you his Spirit, strengthen you, and so direct you that you may serve him fruitfully, to his praise and glory, and to the furthering of the kingdom of Jesus Christ. Amen.

9. Hymn, invoking the Holy Spirit

8 Book of Occasional Services The congregation remains standing

10. Act of Ordination

10a The Ordination Prayer The ordinant kneels while ministers gather and lay hands on him. Leader: We praise and worship you, O God, for your great love shown to us in Jesus Christ, our source of great blessing and joy. We praise you that through his death and resurrection he has conquered death and opened up your kingdom for all who believe in him. We thank you that through the gifts of your Holy Spirit you enable us to help in the work of being the body of Christ here on earth. We thank you for your servant, ....., who has heard and accepted your call. Fill him with your Holy Spirit, as we ordain him to the ministry of Christ’s church.

10b Declaration of Ordination Leader: In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and on behalf of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, I declare you ordained to the ministry of Word and Sacrament in the Church of Jesus Christ.

And may our God of all grace, who has called you through Jesus Christ to share in his everlasting glory, strengthen and confirm you in this holy calling.

The congregation is seated.

10c Presentations The ordinant may be presented with a Bible from the Denomination, as well as a certificate of Ordination, signed by the Moderator and other participating ministers of the denomination.

10d Vesting with the Robes The ordinant is robed. ]

11. Act of Induction

11.1 Introduction by Presiding Minister Leader: Let us now hear from the members of .....Church how they have been led by the Holy Spirit to call (accept the placement) of .... as their minister.

11.2 Statement by Local Church A representative of the local church gives a short account of events leading to this day.

11.3 Questions to the Minister and Local Church Leader:My brother, ....., do you accept your placement /call to this church and congregation? Answer: I do.

The congregation stands Leader: Do you, the members ..... Church,

9 Book of Occasional Services acknowledge ..... as your minister, and do you receive him in the name of Jesus Christ? Answer: We do.

Leader: Do you promise to share with him in the ministry of this church, and at all times. to encourage and loyally support him? Answer: We do.

11.4 Promises of the Minister and of the Local Church The Presiding Minister conducts the Minister-elect to the lectern

Leader:Hear the words of Paul: Every inspired scripture has its use for teaching the truth and refuting error, or for the reformation of manners and discipline in right living, so that those who belong to God may be efficient and equipped for good work of every kind. My brother, will you diligently study the Scriptures? Will you read and expound them to the people? Answer: With God's help, I will.

Leader: People of this church, will you read and meditate on the Scriptures, so that you may grow in the knowledge of God and in obedience to his word? Answer: With God's help, we will.

The Presiding Minister conducts the Minister-elect to the pulpit. Leader:Hear the words of Paul: Before God, and before Christ Jesus who is to judge men living and dead, I charge you solemnly by his coming appearance and his reign, proclaim the message, press it home on all occasions, convenient or inconvenient, use argument, reproof, and appeal, with all the patience that the work of teaching requires. My brother, will you proclaim God's word with boldness? Will you teach the truth, and banish error? Answer: With God's help, I will.

Leader: People of this church, will you hear what is preached? Will you apply it to your lives, and by word and deed commend the Gospel to others? Answer: With God's help, we will.

Commitment to Worship and Prayer The Presiding Minister conducts the Minister-elect to the body of the church . Leader:Hear the words of Paul: I urge then petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be offered for all. Such prayer is right, and approved by God our Saviour, whose will it is that all people should find salvation and come to know the truth. My brother, will you be faithful in prayer? Will you help the people to persevere and to grow in the life of prayer?

10 Book of Occasional Services Will you lead them in worship, and order the services in God's house with reverence and care? Answer: With God's help, I will.

Leader: People of this church, will you be faithful in daily prayer? Will you come together regularly to worship almighty God, and to pray for the needs of the whole world? Answer: With God's help, we will.

Commitment to the Sacraments The Presiding Minister conducts the Minister-elect to the baptismal font. Leader:Hear the words of our Saviour Christ: Go to the people of all nations and make them my disciples; baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teach them to observe all that I have told you. I will be with you with you always, even until the end of the world. My brother, will you joyfully administer the Sacrament of Baptism, and instruct the people in it? Answer: With God's help, I will.

Leader: People of this church, will you honour your commitment to Christ through your baptism, and faithfully care for all who are baptized into this fellowship? Answer: With God’s help, we will.

The Presiding Minister conducts the Minister-elect to the front of the Communion table. Leader:Hear the words of Paul: When we bless 'the cup of blessing', is it not a means of sharing in the blood of Christ? When we break the bread, is it not a means of sharing in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, many as we are, are one body; for it is one loaf of which we all partake. For every time you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord, until he comes. My brother, will you joyfully celebrate the Lord's Supper with your people, so that Christ's saving death and resurrection may be proclaimed, and his body, the Church, may be built up in love? Answer: With God's help, I will.

Leader: People of this church, will you come with joy and thanksgiving to take part in the Lord's Supper, preparing you in faith and penitence? Answer: With God’s help, we will.

Commitment to Christ and to one another Leader: My brother, and you, the people of this church, you are the body of Christ in this place. Through you God continues to work today.

11 Book of Occasional Services Make full use of the varied gifts which the Holy Spirit richly bestows on each of you for the common good. Support one another in prayer and fellowship. Witness to Christ in your work, in your leisure, and in your homes. Strive for justice in society. Be instruments of Christ's peace and love. Do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, for without Him you can do nothing. So I ask you: do you turn to Christ, and dedicate your life to Him? The Minister-elect and the local church members answer: We turn to Christ, and dedicate our life to Him.

Commitment to the Wider Church Leader: My brother, and you, the people of this church, will you take your share in the affairs of this Region and of the United Congregational Church? Will you support the work of the Gospel throughout the world? And will you work and pray for the reunion of Christ's Church? The Minister-elect and the local church members answer: With God's help, we will.

The Presiding Minister then asks the rest of the congregation: Brothers and sisters in Christ, here you represent the Church as a whole. Will you love and care for the minister and members of this church and congregation? Will you encourage them in the Lord's work, and hold them in your concern and in your prayers? The rest of the congregation answers: With God's help, we will.

The congregation remains standing.

The Induction Prayer Leader:Almighty God, we glorify you, that you have chosen a people for your own possession, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and that you have given Jesus Christ to be our great High Priest, the author of eternal salvation.

We praise you that by his death he destroyed the power of death, by his resurrection he has opened your kingdom to all believers, and by his ascension he has poured his abundant gifts on all your people, making some apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip your people for work in your service, to the building up of the body of Christ.

We thank you that your servant, ....., has heard and accepted your call.

12 Book of Occasional Services Grant him now your Holy Spirit, as in your name, and in obedience to your blessed will, we induct him to this pastorate. Keep him steadfast in the work to which you have called him. Give him insight into the Scriptures, courage to proclaim your holy word, zeal in caring for Christ’s flock. Endue him with wisdom to lead your people, fidelity to your will, and joy to the end.

Bless, ....., his wife; Enfold the family in your love and in the love of the people here.

Be gracious to this church: bless it through your servant’s ministry: establish it in all godliness, in obedience to your will, and in joyful service of Jesus Christ, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, on God, be glory evermore. Amen.

Declaration of Induction Leader: In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and on behalf of the..... Regional Council, we declare you to be minister of this church and congregation. Mercy, peace, and love be yours in fullest measure. Amen.

Introduction and welcome of the minister’s spouse

The congregation sits.

The Right hand of Fellowship The Presiding Minister and all other ministers present, the Officers of the Regional Council, the representative(s) of the Denomination, and members of the local church council give the right hand of fellowship to the Inducted minister and his spouse.

11. Anthem

12. The Charge to the Minister and Congregation

13. Hymn The offertory will be taken during this hymn and brought forward to the singing of the Doxology.

14. [ The Lord’s Supper ]

[ The Words of Institution ]

[ The Gracious Invitation ]

[ The Prayer of Approach ]

[ The Peace ]

[ Setting a part of the Elements ]

[ Prayer of Thanksgiving, ending with the Lord's Prayer (sung) ]

13 Book of Occasional Services [ The Action ]

[ The Communion ]

[ The Acclamation Minister: Let us praise the Lord! People: Christ has died! Christ has risen! Christ will come again! ] Renewal of the Covenant (Members of the local church stand) Minister: And now, as one people within the household of God, in the unity of the faith, in the communion of saints, in love and goodwill to all, let us in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ give ourselves afresh to Him and to one another in joyous covenant: promising to walk together with God and with one another in all the privileges and duties of our high calling in Christ Jesus. Minister and members: We believe in God, Creator of Heaven and Earth; We confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour; We depend on the guidance of the Holy Spirit; We seek to live in God’s presence according to all God has made known and will make known to us. We covenant to worship, work, and witness together in the fellowship of this church, For the building up of the body of Christ and the manifesting of the kingdom of God on earth. Minister: Almighty God, Guide ad Guardian of your people, Grant that the covenant we have made to-day on earth may be sealed in heaven; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

[ Post Communion Prayer]

15. Dismissal and Blessing Minister: Beloved in Christ, go in peace to love and serve God. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.

14 Book of Occasional Services Order for the Ending of a Pastoral Ministry

Conducted by the Regional Moderator

1. Organ Prelude

4. Greeting and Call to Worship Leader: The..... Region of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa greets you in the name of Jesus Christ, the head of the church, who calls us to service and ministry. Hear these words from the Apostle Paul: There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit gives them. People: There are different kinds of serving, but the same God is served.

Leader: There are different abilities to perform service, but the same God gives ability to each of us for our particular service. People: The Spirit’s presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all.

5. Introit

6. Purpose Local church representative: Friends in Christ, the ..... Congregational Church and the Rev ...... have invited you to accompany us and to conduct this celebration of the ministry of Rev...... and to mark its conclusion. We welcome your presence among us. Minister: I welcome you, my brothers and sisters in Christ. Thank you for joining us to mark the conclusion of my ministry in this church.

Leader: We recognise that in God’s providence there are: times for beginning and times for ending times for coming together and times for parting times for rejoicing and times for mourning. Just as we marked the beginning of this ministry, we are present today to support you as we mark its end.

7. Prayer Minister: Let us pray. Almighty God, we worship and adore you, our shelter in the storms of life and our helper in times of trouble. Humbly we acknowledge that without you our efforts are futile - that unless you build the house it is built in vain. As we worship you we realise how far we fall of your will for us. You love us with a love that far outweighs our human abilities to love you in return. We offer you this, our confession that we are sinners who have been saved and yet continue to sin. People: Like Paul that which we would, we do not; and that which we would not, even that we do.

15 Book of Occasional Services Minister: Forgive us, Lord, the sins of commission - the malicious tongue, the angry word, the dishonest act. People: Forgive us the sins of omission - the idle hand, the unused talent, the blind eye and the silent voice.

Minister: Forgive us, Lord, for these sins and all other sins of which we now repent, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Lord, hear our prayer All: And let our cry come unto you.

Minister: Lord God, we thank you for our forgiveness granted through Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.

8. Hymn

10. Sermon

11. Hymn (3) The Offertory will be received during the singing of the hymn, and dedicated immediately thereafter.

12. Anthem

13. Recognition of the end of a Ministry The Leader, Minister and Members of the local church stand. Leader: On ... (date) this church called Rev ...... [this Region placed Rev...... in this church] to serve it as minister. Minister: I thank the members of...... Church for the love, kindness and support shown me these last..... years. I ask forgiveness for the mistakes I have made. I am grateful for the ways my leadership has been accepted. As I leave, I carry with me all that I have learned here. Members: We receive your gratitude, forgive you, and accept that you now will leave us. We express our gratitude for your time among us. We ask your forgiveness for our mistakes. Your influence on our faith and faithfulness will not leave us at your departure. Minister: I accept your gratitude and forgive you. I trust that our time together and our parting are pleasing to God.

Leader: (addressing the members) Do you, the members of ..... Church release Rev...... from the duties of minister of your church? Members: We do, with the help of God.

Leader: Do you offer encouragement for his ministry as it unfolds in new ways? Members: We do, with the help of God.

Leader: (addressing the minister)

16 Book of Occasional Services Do you ...... release this church from turning to you for teaching, care, and direction? Minister: I do, with the help of God.

Leader: Do you offer your encouragement for the continued ministry of this church and for the ministry of whoever serves and leads this church? Minister: I do, with the help of God.

Leader: (addressing the congregation) Will ministers and members of other churches of the..... Region please stand. Ministers and members of other churches: On behalf of the .....Region and the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, we witness the words spoken: Words of thankfulness, forgiveness and release. The member churches of our Region hold each of you in prayer. We pledge our support in the transitions which we are marking in this service. All: Thanks be to God.

14. An opportunity for farewell words and gifts

15. Prayers - for the minister - for the local church - The Lord’s Prayer

16. Benediction and Dismissal (all standing) Minister: To God, who by the power at work within us is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think, be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Go now, surrounded by our love and led by the promises of God, the presence of Jesus Christ, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

17 Book of Occasional Services Order for the Recognition of a Church Extension Charge

Conducted by the Regional Chairperson

1. Organ Prelude

4. Call to Worship Chairperson: Be still and know that God is. All: God was, also, in the beginning.

Chairperson: And when all human striving has ceased, God will still be. All: From everlasting to everlasting, God is God and alone is worthy to be worshipped.

Chairperson: Let us sing praise to our God.

5. Introit

6. Purpose Chairperson: Sisters and brothers in Christ, we are here to enter into a Covenant. The people of God to be known as ...... , and the churches of God known as the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, here represented by the ..... Regional Council/Synod, rejoice to affirm that by the grace of God we intend to be the church together. 7. Prayer Leader: Let us pray. Almighty and ever-present God, we come in glad adoration to worship you.

You have brought us to this place through Jesus Christ and the endeavours of those who have laboured faithfully before us.

We are humbled and privileged to be the recipients of that great heritage. Our footsteps have often faltered and we have often fallen short of your will for us. Yet you have remained constant and patient. We thank you for your faithfulness, and we pray that through the power of your holy Spirit alone we may respond in Spirit and in truth. Amen.

8. Hymn

10. Anthem 11. Formation

11.1 A representative of the local community will recount events leading to this occasion. 18 Book of Occasional Services 11.2 The Regional Secretary will describe how this step came to be approved.

11.3 The Chairperson will seek the commitment of local members Chairperson: Will all local members please stand. Brothers and sisters of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa in .....(place), do you wish to enter into a covenant relationship with the other churches of this denomination? Local members: We do, with the help of God.

Chairperson: Will you, then, state your commitment. Local members: We confess our living God and proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour of the world. In Christ’s name and grace we accept our mission of witness and service to all people. We rejoice in the covenant of love which binds us to God, to other believers, to the other churches of this denomination, and to one another.

In the bonds of Christian faith we yield ourselves to God that we may serve the one whose kingdom has no end.

Local members will remain standing.

11.4 Declaration of Formation Chairperson: By the authority vested in me I declare the ...... duly constituted. Will all members of the UCCSA please rise, and join their fellows in this place in the saying of the Covenant.

11.4 The Covenant All: We believe in God, the eternal One; We confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour; We depend on the guidance of the Holy Spirit; We seek to live in God’s presence according to all that God has made known and will make known to us. We covenant to worship, work, and witness together in the fellowship of this Church, For the building up of the body of Christ And the manifesting of the Kingdom of God on earth.

The congregation will sit.

11.5 Signing of the Constitution

Leader: In terms of the Constitution of the UCCSA a Church Extension Charge operates as a local church in most respects. In acknowledgment of the responsibility which this entails, I now ask the Acting Minister and Secretary to come forward and sign the Constitution of the ...... Church Extension Charge.

19 Book of Occasional Services The Constitution is signed.

12. Hymn

13. The Preaching of the Charge

14. The Offertory will be received, during which the Choir will sing an Anthem As the Offertory is brought forward all stand and sing the Doxology.

15. Prayer Here will follow Prayers of Thanksgiving, Intercession for the church and for the world, and the Lord’s Prayer.

16. Benediction (all standing) Chairperson: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God and of Jesus Christ and the blessing of God Almighty remain with you always. Amen

(Recommendations: 1. If the new charge has not completed the formality of the compilation and approval of the Constitution beforehand, it is suggested that the Constitution of the sponsoring church or the Model Constitution be adapted and used until a new Constitution has been approved. 2. The involvement of the Mission Council Church Extension unit can be symbolised if the presiding minister explains this connection at Item 11.5 and asks the Convener or representative of the unit to supervise the signing of the Constitution.)

20 Book of Occasional Services Order for the Formation of a Local Church

1. Organ Prelude

4. Opening Sentences Leader: In the past you were dead because you sinned and fought against God. You followed the ways of this world and obeyed the devil. People: Once we were also ruled by the selfish desires of our bodies and minds.

Leader: But God was merciful! We were dead because of our sins, but God loved us so much that he made us alive with Christ. People: It is by grace we have been saved.

Leader: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. All: Amen.

5. Introit

6. Purpose Leader: Sisters and brothers in Christ, we are here to enter into a Covenant. The people of God to be known as the ...... United Congregational Church, and the churches of God known as the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, here represented by the ..... Regional Council, rejoice to affirm the by the grace of God we intend to be the church together.

7. Prayer Leader: Let us pray. Almighty and ever-present God, we come in glad adoration to worship you. You have brought us to this place through Jesus Christ and the endeavours of those who have laboured faithfully to follow him.

We are humbled and privileged to be the recipients of that great heritage. Our footsteps have often faltered and we have often fallen short of your will for us. Yet you have remained constant and patient. We thank you for your faithfulness, and we pray that through the power of your holy Spirit alone we may respond in spirit and in truth. Amen.

9. Hymn

10. Formation

10.1 A representative of the local community will recount events leading to this 21 Book of Occasional Services occasion.

10.2 The Regional Secretary will describe how this step came to be approved.

10.3 The Chairperson will seek the commitment of local members Chairperson: Will all local members please stand. Brothers and sisters of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa in ,,,,, do you wish to enter into a covenant relationship with the other churches of this denomination? Local members: We do, with the help of God.

Chairperson: Will you, then, state your commitment. Local members: We confess our living God and proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour of the world. In Christ’s name and grace we accept our mission of witness and service to all people.

We rejoice in the covenant of love which binds us to God, to other believers, to the other churches of this denomination, and to one another. In the bonds of Christian faith we yield ourselves to God that we may serve the one whose kingdom has no end.

Local members will remain standing.

10.4 Declaration of Formation Chairperson: By the authority vested in me I declare the..... United Congregational Church duly constituted. Will all members of the UCCSA please rise, and join their fellows in this place in the saying of the Covenant.

10.4 The Covenant All: We believe in God, the eternal One; We confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour; We depend on the guidance of the Holy Spirit; We seek to live in God’s presence according to all God has made known and will make known to us. We covenant to worship, work, and witness together in the fellowship of this Church, For the building up of the body of Christ And the manifesting of the Kingdom of God on earth.

The congregation will sit.

10.5 Signing of the Constitution

Chairperson: In terms of the decision of the UCCSA Assembly the..... Church now becomes a constituent church. In acknowledgment of the responsibility which this entails, I now ask the designated officials to come forward and sign its Constitution.

11. While the Constitution is being signed the Choir will sing an

22 Book of Occasional Services Anthem .

12. Hymn

13. The Preaching of the Charge

14. The Offertory will be received As the Offertory is brought forward all stand and sing the Doxology.

15. Prayer Here will follow Prayers of Thanksgiving, Intercession for the church (in particular the newly-formed congregation and its leaders) and for the world, and the Lord’s Prayer.

16. Benediction (all standing) Chairperson: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God and of Jesus Christ and the blessing of God Almighty remain with you always. Amen

23 Book of Occasional Services Order for a Service of Corporate Reconciliation (to seek and celebrate healing within a congregation or between congregations)

1. Opening sentences (all standing) Leader: In the name of the triune God: Creator, Liberator, and Healer. People: Amen.

L Jesus said: Ask, and it will be given; seek, and you will find knock, and it will be opened to you. P For everyone who asks receives, and those who seek find, and to each who knocks it will be opened.

2. Prayer All God of all mercy and consolation, come to the aid of your people, turning us from our sin to live for you alone. Give us the power of your Holy Spirit, that we may attend to your word, confess our sins, and receive your forgiveness, and grow into the fullness of Jesus Christ, who lived and died and rose again for us and for our salvation.. Amen.

3. Examination of Conscience (all seated) L Jesus said the first commandment is: The Holy One, our God, is the only Holy One. and you shall love the Holy One, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul and with your entire mind, and with all your strength.

The second commandment is this: You shall love your neighbour as you love yourself. No other commandment is greater than these.

Let us call to mind the words of Jesus Christ: Blessed are the poor in spirit; P Theirs is the reign of God.

L Blessed are those who mourn; P They shall be comforted.

L Blessed are the meek; P They shall inherit the earth.

L Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness; P They shall be satisfied.

L Blessed are the merciful; P They shall obtain mercy. 24 Book of Occasional Services L Blessed are the pure in heart; P They shall see God.

L Blessed are the peacemakers; P They shall be called children of God.

L Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness' sake; P Theirs is the reign of God.

L Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. P Rejoice and be glad. for your reward is great In heaven..

4. Prayer for Illumination L Let us pray. P Merciful God. from whom come all holy desires and just works, breathe into our hearts by your Holy Spirit the gift of obedient faith, those we, knowing your will may treasure these words in our minds and hearts and may in all things love and serve you. Amen.

5. Reading of Scripture Appropriate readings could be: Isaiah I: 10-18; Ephesians 4: 17 -32; John 15: 12-17 or Ezekiel 11:19-20; Ephesians 5: 1-14; Matthew 22: 34-40

6. Sermon

7. Affirmation of Faith Here all may stand and say together a Creed, such as the Apostles’ Creed, or the Congregational Covenant, as appropriate.

8. Confession of Sin and Assurance of Pardon (all seated) L If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. P If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness,' L Let us confess our sins.

All Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart. We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We are truly sorry, and we humbly repent. For the sake of our Saviour Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us that we may delight in your will and follow your ways, to the glory of your name.

25 Book of Occasional Services Amen

L Jesus said to a sinner: Where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you? P Neither do I condemn you; go and do not sin again.

L Do you believe that God is willing, for Christ's sake, to forgive all your sins? P I believe.

L Do you forgive those who have sinned against you? P I do, with the help of God.

L Do you resolve to offer yourself to the guidance of the Holy Spirit that you may have the power to resist evil and to do what is good? P I do.

L In Christ's name, and as one with you in the church, I declare to you: your sins are forgiven. P In Christ’s name. and as sisters and brothers in the church, We declare to you: your sins are forgiven. All Thanks be to God.

9. Holy Communion Then can follow a celebration of the Lord’s Supper, commencing with intercessory prayer, and including the passing of the peace before proceeding with the rest of the communion service.

26 Book of Occasional Services Order for the Dedication of a Church Building

1. Organ Prelude

(Alternatively: The congregation gathers inside the church. The procession gathers outside the church doors. The leader knocks on the door, which is opened from inside.

Leader: Open to us the gates of righteousness. We will go into them, and we will praise the Lord. Let us sing the processional hymn ......

[The leader stands aside to allow the procession to enter the church, with the leader entering last.]

4. Call to Worship

Leader: Who may climb the Lord’s hill or stand in God’s temple? People: Those who have clean hands and pure hearts, And do not worship idols or tell lies. Leader: The Lord God saves them, Will bless and reward them, because they worship and serve the God of Jacob. People: Open the ancient gates, So the king of glory may come in.

5. Introit

6. Description of events leading to this day. The Church Secretary reads an account, which could be a collage of contributions by the children, youth, and/ or any others involved in the planning and activities leading to this day.

7. Prayer Leader: Surrounded by the physical evidence of your bountifulness, O Lord; and of the skills and generosity of your servants who have laboured to create this place in the beauty of holiness, we come in great joy to offer you this, our service of worship.

We come to acknowledge that you are God, our Creator, Redeemer and Friend. We come in response to your Call. We come because we want to be with you in the presence of one another. We come because we want to worship you. People: Lord God, accept this, our sacrifice of praise.

Leader: We come also because we need your forgiveness. 27 Book of Occasional Services People: We have sinned against you and one another in thought, word and deed.

Leader: When we measure ourselves and our puny efforts against you, we realise that we are unworthy to be called your children. All: Forgive us, we pray, and teach us how to find true repentance.

Leader: O Lord, hear our prayer; People: and let our cry come unto you.

Leader: Lord, you have taught us that if we truly repent, you are gracious and will forgive us. All: We repent of our sins. Thank you for your forgiveness, granted through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Amen.

8. Hymn

[Alternatively, or additionally, there could be dancing or movement through the building, where the intended use of each area - e.g. pulpit, communion table, baptismal font, choir stalls, etc. - can be symbolised.]

10. Hymn

11. Sermon

12. Anthem during which the offertory will be taken up. As the offertory is brought forward the congregation rises and sings the Doxology.

13. Dedication of the Building (all standing) Leader: For the worship of God in prayer and praise, for the preaching of the Word, for the celebration of the holy sacraments, People: We dedicate this building. Leader: For the comfort of those who mourn, for the help of those who are perplexed, for the guidance of those who seek strength, People: We dedicate this building. Leader: For the support and nurture of families, for the guidance of children, for the calling of youth to a life of service, People: We dedicate this building. Leader: For the opening of minds to your truth, for the caring of the needy, for the giving of hope and courage, People: We dedicate this building. Leader: For the unity of all believers in Christ, for the carrying of the gospel into all the world, for the furtherance of our service in the community, People: We dedicate this building.

28 Book of Occasional Services Leader: For the consecration of life and service, in grateful remembrance of those who have gone before us, and in gratitude for our life together in this church, People: We dedicate this building. to the glory of God, to the honour of Christ, and to the praise of the Holy Spirit.

All: Thanks be to God!

The congregation sits.

14. Prayer Leader: O God of all creation, we give thanks for the calling to be your church and for the power you give us to fulfil our calling.

We are a people with a past full of assurance and a future full of hope. Today we dedicate this ..... to you. May its meaning live on in us so that each time we see it or use it, we may be reminded of your holy presence, May we pass its significance on to our children and our children’s children, so that their journey of faith may be enhanced.

Unless you are the real builder, we work in vain, O Lord. As we work on our houses of life, may yours be the plans we fulfil and may yours be the glory. Amen.

Now let us sum up our prayers as we pray how Jesus taught us: All: Our Father ......

15. Benediction and Dismissal (all standing) Leader: May God’s Holy Spirit lead you. May God’s strength protect you. May God’s peace be with you. Go now in the name of God, by the grace of Christ, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. All: Amen.

29 Book of Occasional Services Order for the Dedication and Unveiling of a Tombstone

At the tombstone

1. Opening sentences The Lord has risen Christ has risen Heaven and Earth are full of his glory Hosanna in the highest!

We believe in the resurrection to eternal life through our Lord, Jesus Christ, who will change our mortal bodies and make them like his own glorious body. Therefore our citizenship is not in the grave, but in heaven. (Phil 3: 20-21)

2. Prayer Let us give thanks to God for the memory of N..... (the deceased). Let us pray:

Creator God, the giver of life, we give you thanks for the life you have given us. We thank you for lives of meaning and purpose, service and love, and faith and obedience, which you have made possible through the gift of your son, who is the way, the truth and the live.

At this time we give you special thanks for the life of N....., for his light of wisdom and understanding, his love for family and friends his diligence of work and support, his generosity of time and resources his faithfulness to Christ and his church which by your grace, Lord, were his gifts to us who remember him and all the good which he brought to us in his life. Amen.

[3. Hymn]

4. Scripture Readings One each from the OT, Epistles and Gospels may be selected: Ps. 23; Ps. 42: 1-5; Ps.46; Ps. 121; Is. 25: 6-9; Is. 61: 1-3 2 Tim. 2: 17; Acts 10: 34-43; Rom. 8: 9-11, 31-39; 1 Thess. 4: 13-18 Luke 23: 33, 39-43; John6: 37-40; 11: 17-27; 14: 1-3, 15-31

5. Address

6. Prayer Let us pray.

Accept our prayers for the relatives of N.... Bless them and their commemoration of their beloved, now separated from them by death. Strengthen their trust in you and your promises of eternal life. May they know Christ's presence, blessing and power! May they experience great joy and peace in the knowledge that their loved one is safe in his eternal presence, even him who 30 Book of Occasional Services taught us to pray together, saying: Our Father....

7. Unveiling of Tombstone (A member of the family unveils the tombstone) Our help is from the Lord. Who has made Heaven and Earth. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, we unveil this stone to the glory of God and in memory of N...... Grant eternal rest unto him. (A member of the family will read the inscription on the stone and place flowers if so arranged).

8. Prayer Let us pray:

Merciful God hear our prayers for ourselves. Comfort us by the presence of your Holy Spirit and give us peace today as we remember the death of N...... Give us grateful hearts for all that he meant to us, for all of your love that he conveyed to us, and for all the good that we received through his living among us. Grant that we may learn through his goodness and weakness to live more faithfully and love more fully today, so that when we have finished our earthly pilgrimage, we may hear your affirming words, "Well done, faithful servant". Amen.

[9. Hymn]

10. Benediction May the God of peace make you perfect and holy; And may you all be kept safe and blameless, spirit, soul and body, for the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ. God has called you; he will sustain you and He will not fail you.

The Lord bless you and keep you The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord look kindly on you and give you peace. Amen (Num. 6: 24-26)

31 Book of Occasional Services An Order for a Wedding Service

1. Call to worship Let us worship God.

Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders have toiled in vain.

2.Introduction (The Congregation is seated.) Dear friends, we have come together in the presence of God to witness the marriage of A and C, to support them with our prayers and to share in their joy.

Scriptures teach us that the bond and covenant of marriage is a state of life that God has provided and instituted for us; a holy mystery which we see as a symbol of the union between Christ and the church. It is thus not to be entered into lightly or thoughtlessly, but reverently and responsibly in obedience to the gospel of Christ.

God has provided it for the companionship of help and comfort in mutual care, so that husband and wife may live faithfully together. God has provided it for the fulfilling of human love in mutual honour, so that husband and wife may know each other with delight. God has provided it for the nurturing of children, so that they may find the security of love, and grow up in the heritage of faith. God has provided it for the enrichment of society, so that wife and husband being joined together, may enter into the life of the community as a new creation.

A and C now come to give their free consent, and to exchange their vows of faithfulness to each other, for the whole of their life together.

If anyone knows of any reason why they may not be married to each other, you are now to declare it.

Likewise I charge you both that if you know of any reason why you may not lawfully be married, you are now to declare it.

3.The Legal Declarations A (C) will you say after me:

I do solemnly declare that I do not know of any lawful impediment why I, AB (CD) may not be joined in matrimony 32 Book of Occasional Services to CD (AB). (Repeat for each)

[At this point the Minister may ask: Who gives this woman (man) to be married to this man (woman)? The response to which is: I do! This could be an appropriate time for the bridal veil to be removed]

Let us enter this celebration confident that Christ’s Holy Spirit is present with us here. And let us pray that this couple will experience and follow God’s purpose for them for the whole of their lives.

4.Prayer Let us pray.

Gracious and loving God, giver of all good things, we thank you for the blessings in our lives, and especially at this time we thank you for the gift of love you have given to this couple. We thank you that you have appointed marriage to guard, to strengthen, and to make perfect that same gift of love. And since we believe that it is only through your help that we can do anything well, we ask that you will pour out your Spirit on them, so that in sincerity and truth they may make and keep their vows. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

4.Reading(s)

4.1 The Marriage Vows Will the congregation please stand for the Marriage Vows

A (C), will you take C (A) to be your wife (husband) in Christian marriage? Will you love her (him), comfort her (him), honour and protect her (him), in times of prosperity and health, and in times of trouble and suffering, and be faithful to her (him) as long you both shall live?

I will. (Repeat for each,)

[Who give these persons to be married to each other? The parents place the right hand of their own child in the right hand of the other. The parents resume their places. ]

Holding right hands the Bride and Groom face each other. Bride and Groom say in turn after the minister:

33 Book of Occasional Services I call upon the persons here present To witness that I, A ( C ) do take you, C ( A ), to be my lawful wedded wife (husband) according to God’s holy law; to have and to hold from this day forward for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish as long as we both shall live, and this is my solemn vow.

4.2 The Giving of Rings Bride and groom loose hands. The minister receives the ring(s).

Let us pray.

Loving Lord, Bless the giving and receiving of these wedding ring(s), symbol(s) of unending love and reminder(s) of the vows and covenants made this day. We ask you this for your love’s sake. Amen.

As each places the ring on the other’s finger, they say:

I give you this ring in God’s name as a symbol of all that we have promised. With my body I honour you, and all that I am I give to you.

5.The Declaration The minister joins their right hands together, and wraps his stole around them.

A and C have declared before God and before you that they will live together in Christian marriage; they have made sacred promises to each other, and have symbolised their marriage today by joining hands and by the giving and receiving of (a) ring(s).

In the name of God, I pronounce them to be husband and wife. Those whom God has joined together, no-one may separate.

6. The Blessing The couple may kneel.

May the Lord bless you and keep you; May the Lord make His face shine upon you And be gracious to you;

34 Book of Occasional Services May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you And give you peace.

The grace of Christ attend you; the love of God surround you; the Holy Spirit keep you that you may grow in holy love, find delight in each other always, and remain faithful until your life’s end. Amen.

The congregation may be seated.

The couple rise. You may kiss one another!

7. Address

[8. Candle Lighting - 3 candles: central candle unlit As a further symbol of what you have done this day, I invite you to come forward and light the central candle that remains unlit. This symbolises that you come from your separate lives to form a new life together, and that you have pledged in this church to ask the Holy Spirit to be head of your new household.

But you do not blow out the candles that represent your separate personalities; rather you pledge to create an additional personality with the help of God, always remembering to allow each other space to develop to the other’s fullest potential as a beloved child of God.]

9. The Signing of the Register

10. A solo may be sung

11. Prayer Let us pray.

Almighty God, you have given A and C grace to see each other in the special light of love. May your love in Christ deepen their love, and bring them through life bearing each other’s burdens and sharing each other’s joys. Bless their families and friends; may they always thank you for them. Bless their home; may they welcome both friend and stranger to it. [Bless them as they raise their children; may they be loving , wise and caring parents]. Lord, we thank you that in our earthly life you speak to us of eternal life:

35 Book of Occasional Services May A and C learn to know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, day by day; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who taught us to pray together, saying Our Father......

12. Hymn

13. The Blessing May God, the giver of hope fill you with all joy and peace because you trust in him, so that you may have abundant life, through the power of his Holy Spirit.

The blessing of Almighty God, Creator, Redeemer and Guide, be among you, and remain with you always. Amen.

36 Book of Occasional Services Order for a Funeral Service

In the church

1. Opening sentences A selection from the following should be used:

I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. John 11: 25-26 (RSV)

The eternal God is your dwelling-place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deut. 33: 27 (RSV)

Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you. Psalm 55: 22 (RSV)

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matt. 5: 4 (RSV)

God so loved the world that he gave his only son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3: 16 (RSV)

I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Rom. 8: 38, 39 (RSV)

Now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall understand fully, even as I have been fully understood. 1 Cor. 13: 12 (RSV)

Alternatively, the minister may use this or a similar preface:

We have come together to worship God; to give him thanks and praise for the life of N.... whose days among us have drawn to a close; and to share our grief over one loved and respected by those who knew him, and one whose love and concern for us have up till now been a strengthening.

And we meet in the faith that death is not the ultimate calamity that it seems, and that we can be enabled to face it without fear, or bitterness, or guilt.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us new birth into a living hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Jesus said: 'Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.'

2. Prayer One or more of these prayers may follow:

Eternal God, the creator and upholder of all things, your ways are not as our ways, nor your thoughts as our thoughts; your wisdom is unsearchable; your purposes 37 Book of Occasional Services cannot fail. Humbly we worship you, and as trusting children we come to you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father. Let not our hearts be troubled, neither let us be afraid.

Comfort us in the natural grief of parting, and help us to conduct ourselves as those for whom death itself is swallowed up in victory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

God our Father, our refuge and strength, a helper close at hand in time of trouble: you can change the shadow of death into the brightness of a new morning. We turn to you now, and to your Word, so that we may renew our trust and our hope, and be lifted from darkness and distress into the light and peace of your presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Heavenly Father, in your son Jesus Christ you have given us a true faith and a sure hope. Strengthen this faith and hope in us now and all our days. Help us to believe in the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, and the resurrection to eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gracious Lord, enable us to listen lovingly for your word. May we console each other with the message you proclaim, so finding light in darkness and faith in the midst of doubt; through Jesus Christ Lord. Amen.

3. Hymn

4. Readings

4.1 Psalms One of the following may be read:

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; For you are with me; Your rod and staff comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23

The Lord is compassionate and gracious; slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbour his anger for ever; He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from

38 Book of Occasional Services the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him and his righteousness with their children's children - with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts. Psalm 103: 8-18 (NIV)

If I lift up my eyes to the hills, where shall I find help? My help comes only from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot stumble; He who guards you will not sleep. The guardian of Israel never slumbers, never sleeps. The Lord is your guardian, your protector at your right hand; The sun will not strike you by day or the moon by night The Lord will guard you against all harm; He will guard your life. The Lord will guard you as you come and go, now and for evermore. Psalm 121 (REB)

Other suitable Psalms: 39:4-8, 12; 42; 90:1-6, 10, 12; 130

4.2 New Testament Readings One or more of the following passages may be read:

The Spirit of God joins with our spirit in testifying that we are God’s children; and, if children, then heirs. We are God’s heirs and Christ’s fellow-heirs, if we share his sufferings now in order to share his splendour hereafter. For I reckon that the sufferings we now endure bear no comparison with the splendour, as yet unrevealed, which is in store for us.

And in everything, as we know, the Spirit co-operates for good with those who love God and are called according to his purpose.

With all this in mind, what are we to say? If God is on our side, who is against us? He did not spare his own Son, but surrendered him for us all; and with this gift how can he fail to lavish upon us all he has to give? Who will be the accuser of God’s chosen ones? It is God who pronounces acquittal: then who can condemn? It is Christ - Christ who died, and, more than that, was raised from the dead - who is at God's right hand, and indeed pleads our cause. Then what can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction or hardship? Can persecution, hunger, nakedness, peril, or the sword? In spite of all, overwhelming victory is ours through him who loved us. For I am convinced that there is nothing in death or life, in the realm of spirits or superhuman powers, in the world as it is or the world as it shall be, in the forces of the universe, in heights or depths - nothing in all creation that can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8: 16-18, 28, 31-35, 37-39 (NEB)

If it is for this life only that Christ has given us hope, we of all men are most to be pitied. But the truth is Christ was raised to life - the first fruits of the harvest of the

39 Book of Occasional Services dead. For since it was a man who brought death into the world, a man also brought resurrection of the dead. As in Adam all men die, so in Christ all will be brought to life; but each in his own proper place: Christ the first fruits, and afterwards, at his coming, those who belong to Christ. Then comes the end, when he delivers up the kingdom to God the Father, after abolishing every kind of domination, authority, and power. For he is destined to reign until God has put all enemies under his feet; and the last enemy to be abolished is death.

But, you may ask, how are the dead raised? In what kind of body? A senseless question! The seed you sow does not come to life unless it has first died; and what you sow is not the body that shall be, but a naked grain, perhaps of wheat, or of some other kind; and God clothes it with the body of his choice, each seed with its own particular body.

So it is with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown in the earth as a perishable thing is raised imperishable. Sown in humiliation, it is raised in glory; sown in weakness, it is raised in power; sown as an animal body, and it is raised as a spiritual body. If there is such a thing as an animal body, there is also a spiritual body. What I mean, my brothers, is this: flesh and blood can never possess the kingdom of God, and the perishable cannot possess immortality.

This perishable being must be clothed with the imperishable, and what is mortal must be clothed with immortality. And when our mortality has been clothed with immortality, then the saying of Scripture will come true: 'Death is swallowed up; victory is won!' '0 Death, where is your victory? O Death, where is your sting?' The sting of death is sin, and sin gains its power from the law; but, God be praised, he gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, stand firm and immovable, and work for the Lord always, work without limit, since you know that in the Lord your labour cannot be lost. 1 Corinthians' 15: 19-26, 35-38, 42-44, 50, 53-58 (NEB)

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had vanished, and there was no longer any sea. . I saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready like a bride adorned for her husband. I heard a loud voice proclaiming from the throne: 'Now at last God has his dwelling among men! He will dwell among them and they shall be his people, and God himself will be with them. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be an end to death and to mourning and crying and pain; for the old order has passed away!' Then he who sat on the throne said, 'Behold! I am making all things new! 'And he said to me, ' Write this down; for these words are trustworthy and true. Indeed', he said, 'they are already fulfilled, for I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. A draught from the water-springs of life will be my free gift to the thirsty. All this is the victor's heritage; and I will be his God and he shall be my son. Revelation 21: 1- 7 (NEB)

(Jesus said) 'Set your troubled hearts at rest. Trust in God always; trust also in me. There are many dwelling places in my Father's house; if it were not so, I should have told you; for I am going there on purpose to prepare a place for you, And if I go and prepare a place for you, I shall come again and receive you to myself, so that where I am you may be also; and my way there is known to you’, Thomas said , Lord we do not know where you are going, so how can we know the way?' Jesus replied, 'I am the way; I am the truth and I am life’

40 Book of Occasional Services 'I will not leave you bereft; I am coming back to you, In a little while the world will see me no longer, but you will see me; because I live, you too will live.

'Peace is my parting gift to you, my own peace, such as the world cannot give. Set your troubled hearts at rest and banish your fears.' John 14: 1-6, 18-19, 27 (NEB)

The following passages are also suitable: Wisdom 4: 7 -15 Jerusalem Bible (for premature death); Rom, 14: 7-12; 2 Cor. 4: 7-18; 2 Cor, 5: 1-10; 1 Thess. 5: 1-11; 1 Peter 1: 3-9; Rev. 7: 9-17; Rev. 22: 1-5; John 6: 35-40

[5. Choir]

[6. Obituary]

7. Sermon

[8. Thanks]

9. Prayer of Thanksgiving One or more of the following prayers may be offered, and concluded with The Lord’s Prayer:

Almighty God, we thank you that you sent your Son Jesus Christ to die for us and to rise again. His cross declares your love to be without limit; his resurrection, that death, our last enemy, is doomed. By his victory we are assured of the promise that you will never leave us or forsake us; that neither death nor life, nor things present nor things to come, can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.

Gracious God, whose purpose for all is one of good, from whose love nothing can separate us, neither death nor life, nor things present nor things to come, we offer you our thanks and praise for all that you have done for humankind through Jesus Christ. By giving him to live and die for us you have made known your ways with us, and shown that your love has no limit. By raising him from the dead, you have promised that those who trust in him will share his resurrection-life. Grant us, then, that confidence in you, which, even in the hour of deep distress and great perplexity, clings to your guiding hand and finds strength and comfort: through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Eternal God, before whose face the generations rise and pass away, we praise you for all your servants departed this life in your faith and love, especially for N., whom today we commend into your sure keeping; each recalling in a moment of silence what he has meant to his loved ones, friends and colleagues. ...

We give thanks for all your goodness towards him; all he accomplished by your grace; and all that he was to those who loved him. And now we praise you that for him sorrow and sicknesses are ended, death itself is past, and he lives forever in your love and care; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

41 Book of Occasional Services Almighty and Eternal God, we give thanks for the witness of your faithful people in all generations. Especially now we lift up our hearts in gratitude for the life of N . . . whom we commit into your care and keeping; for the gracious memories he has left behind (here may follow appropriate thanksgivings) . . . for everything in his life that reflected your goodness and love. Help us to believe that death is the gateway to a fuller life and that he is safe in your keeping; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Heavenly Father, by your mighty power you gave us life and in your love you have given us new life in Jesus Christ. We now entrust N . . . to your merciful keeping: in the faith of Christ Jesus, your Son our Lord, who died and rose again to save us, and is now alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit in glory forever. Amen.

Lord of our lives, as we come together in a sense of common loss and personal grief let the spirit of faith, and love, and compassion so draw us closer together that gradually our fears may be dispelled, our loneliness eased, our hurt healed, and our hope re-kindled. May our natural sorrow rest ever more surely in that deep and quiet confidence which knows that death is not the end, but rather the completion of our lives. And so may we emerge from these dark days to live our lives gently with others in faith and trust and new hope.

Lord, we give thanks for all our friends and loved ones in whom we have seen the light of your presence, and the graciousness of your spirit, and the warmth of your love. Especially today we give thanks for N ...... We acknowledge with gladness that ever gracious love of God which gives also the great gift of acceptance - that love embodied in the lives of parents and family, friends and associates, which surrounded him in infancy, bore with him in adolescence and sustained him in manhood. We are deeply grateful for all he was to those in the close family circle as a husband, brother, and a friend, and a relative. We are glad for all that his wisdom and judgement, his sincerity and company meant to those in business, in pleasure, and in the service of the kingdom.

Lord, we shall miss him as long as we live. And yet because his tolerance and energy, his intensity of living and helpfulness, his steadfastness and humour were so freely given to us, his spirit will always be alive in us, and his memory treasured in our conversation. Lord, the love, loyalty and respect which lie deep in our hearts cannot be broken or diminished by the passing of time.

Lord, help us to see death for what it really is - The end of poverty and the beginning of riches, The end of frustration and the beginning of fulfilment, The end of fear and the beginning of tranquillity, The end of pain and the beginning of joy, The end of weakness and the beginning of strength.

O Lord Jesus, whose rich and unforgettable life was lived in the faith that the love which surrounds us is as real and dependable as that of a father, let that same sense of trust and hope steadies us at this time. Let not grief overwhelms us, or a sense of loss embitters us. But out of our sadness let there arise a new joy for so much given to us.

O gracious Spirit of peace, come alive within our experience and hurt, within our sorrow and isolation, within the sadness of today and the loneliness of tomorrow. Come alive as the peace and trust which nothing in life or death can kill. Cast out

42 Book of Occasional Services our fears and let not our hearts be troubled, knowing that this world this remains our Father's house.

These our prayers we offer through Christ our Lord and in whose name we further pray: Our Father...

10. Hymn

11. Benediction One of the following may be said:

May God bless you and keep you May God make his face shine upon you! And be gracious to you May God lift up his countenance upon you! And give you peace.

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, Who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and deed. 2 Thess 2: 16-17

The peace of God, which passes all understanding, Will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil 4: 7 Now to the One who can keep you from falling and set you in the presence of his glory, jubilant and above reproach, to the only God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, might and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all time, now, and for evermore. Amen. Jude 24,25 (NEB)

12. The congregation remains standing until the family has followed the coffin out of the church.

At the graveside

13. Words of Assurance The following may be said prior to the committal:

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Is. 40: 11

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. ... those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. Is. 40: 29,31

Jesus says: 'I am the one who raises the dead to life! Everyone who has faith in me will live, even if they die.

43 Book of Occasional Services And everyone who lives because of faith in me will never really die.’ John 11: 25-26 (CEV)

If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. Whether therefore we live or die, we belong to the Lord. Rom. 14: 8 (NEB)

The Lord says: 'Do not be afraid, I am the first and the last, and I am the living one; for I was dead and now I am alive for evermore, and I hold the keys of death and death's domain.' Rev. 1: 17b-18 (NEB)

14. Prayer One or more of the following may be said:

Almighty God, Father of all mercies and giver of all comfort: deal graciously; we pray, with those who mourn, that, casting all their care on you, they may know the consolation of your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gracious God, our heavenly Father, sustain and comfort those who are in the midst of grief and sorrow. Be their refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. May they know the love that passes understanding - the love of him who by death has conquered death and by rising again has opened the gates of everlasting life, Jesus Christ our Lord! Amen.

Almighty God, we pray that, encouraged by the example of those who have gone before us, we may run with patience the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith; so that at the last we may join those whom we love in your presence where there is fullness of joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Father, do not let grief overwhelm your children but rather teach us how to live out our lives serenely and gently with others, following the good example of those now at rest; and may we at the last enter with them into the fullness of your unending joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God, in this hour of sorrow we confess our sins to you. In the vigour of life we often live as though our destinies were in our own control and not in yours. Forgive us, O Father: help us to walk more humbly with you, doing your will with diligence and faithfulness; looking to that day when we shall be gathered with all those who love you, in your eternal kingdom of light and joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

15. Hymn (While the coffin is lowered into the grave)

16. The Committal One or more of the following sentences may be said at the grave or at the crematorium, prior to the words of committal:

We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 1 Tim. 6: 7 (NIV)

44 Book of Occasional Services The dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it. Eccl. 12: 7 (NIV)

Having entrusted our brother (or N.. .) into the hands of God, we now commit his mortal body to the ground (or to be cremated), earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust, insure and certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died, was buried and rose again for us. To him be glory forever. Amen.

Seeing that the earthly life of our brother has come to an end, we commit his body to be buried (cremated), confident of the resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. or

Having commended into God's hands our brother b departed, we commit his body to the ground (or to be cremated), putting our whole trust and confidence in the mercy of our Heavenly Father, and in the victory of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who died, was buried, and rose again for us, and lives and reigns forever. Amen.

One of the following may be said:

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain any more, for the former things have passed away. Rev. 21: 4 (RSV)

They shall never again feel hunger or thirst, he sun shall not beat on them nor any scorching heat, because the Lamb who is at the heart of the throne will be their shepherd and will guide them to the springs of the water of life; and God will wipe away all tears from their eyes. Rev. 7: 16-17 (NEB)

17. Prayer One of the following may be said:

Almighty God, you have bound together all your people in heaven and on earth in one holy fellowship: let not our thoughts linger here, but help us to believe that your servant's life has made a new beginning, with your mercy and your love still around him.

Strengthened by this assurance, may we return to the duties which await us in the world, resolved to be more faithful to you and more helpful to one another, for the sake of those no longer with us upon earth;

We remember with concern those whose sense of loss is keenest at this time because their love was deepest and most personal. As they grieve may they be aware that they do not do so alone.

45 Book of Occasional Services And let regrets give way to gratitude, sorrow be transformed by hope, and a sense of loss grow to a deep thankfulness for what can never be lost or tarnished. Let not their mourning be as endless grief, but as the courage of faith and the prelude to fresh meaning in life. Keep them from bitterness and self-pity, so that without any disloyalty life may again blossom as the rose. Through Jesus Christ our Lord! Amen

Lord, we remember with tenderness those who mourn. Help them to keep in loving remembrance him who has gone on before, him who has stood by in times of success and adversity, whose presence has given so many years of happiness. Help them still to hold their heads high lest the loss of special friendships sour their loneliness, and spoil that memory. And now, Lord, give us all grace to turn back again to life's tasks with steady nerves, a calm heart, and a courageous faith, that we may be truly worthy of those who have enriched our lives beyond measure, and lived in that spirit which alone can save the world, even the spirit of Him who died for us all, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

18. Benediction

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen.

46 Book of Occasional Services Order for Confirmation of Baptismal Vows

Confirmation should take place in the context of a service of Holy Communion, immediately before the Communion. The minister could also personally serve communion to the confirmands.

1.Introduction In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in accordance with the decision of the Church Council of this congregation we are about to admit to communicant membership of the Christian Church those persons gathered before me now. They have been under special instruction in the teaching of the Church and are now ready to profess publicly their faith in Jesus Christ.

In baptism you have already been received into the fellow ship of Christ. You were then sealed as members of the family and household of God, and were engaged to be the Lord’s. Now you come, of your own free will, to profess your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, to consecrate yourselves to him, and to accept the privileges and responsibilities of membership of his Church. To assist you to understand what this means you have undergone a period of prayer and study.

I ask you therefore to make your profession of faith and to answer before God and this congregation the questions which will I put to you.

2.Presentation of the Candidates Church Secretary: I present the candidates for confirmation and acceptance into full membership of this congregation. Will each candidate please stand as I read out your name. The Church Secretary names the candidates.

3.The Vows (candidates standing) Minister: Do you believe in one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and do you confess Jesus Christ as your Saviour? Answer: I do, with the help of God.

M: Do you promise to be faithful in private and public worship, to live in community with the other members of this congregation, and to take part in its activities? Answer: I do, with the help of God.

M Do you promise to give a fitting proportion of your talents and money for the Church's work in the world? Answer: I do, with the help of God.

M Do you promise, depending on the grace of God, to be Christ’s disciple, to resist oppression and evil, to show love and justice, and to witness to the work and word of Jesus Christ as best as you are able? Answer: I do, with the help of God.

M The Lord bless you and give you grace faithfully these solemn promises.

47 Book of Occasional Services 4.Affirmation of Faith I now invite you to share your affirmation of faith with us. Candidates recite the Apostles’ Creed

5.Prayer Let us pray Almighty God, who in baptism received these, your servants into the church, forgave their sins, and promised them eternal life. Increase in them the gifts of your Holy Spirit. Grant love for others, joy in serving you, peace in disagreement, patience in suffering, kindness toward all people, goodness in ill times, faithfulness in temptation, gentleness in the face of opposition, self-control in all things. Thereby strengthen them for their ministry in the world: through Jesus Christ our Saviour . Amen.

6. Welcome As the minister lays hands on, or offers the right hand of fellowship together with the Church Secretary to, each candidate, the Minister says:

The God of all grace who has called you to his eternal glory, confirm you to the end.

The rest of the Communion Service proceeds

48 Book of Occasional Services