Service 21st December 2025
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests on his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. from Isaiah 9:6.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: For a child has been born for us,
All: a son given to us;
Min: authority rests on his shoulders;
All: and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. from Isaiah 9:6.
Advent Candles
Hymn 284 vv. 1-4 ‘Hope is a candle.’
Hymn 273 ‘O come, O come, Emmanuel.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word
Isaiah 7: 10–16.
Hymn 314 ‘Child in a manger.’
St Matthew 1: 18-end.
Sermon: ‘Emmanuel, God with us.’
Response
Hymn 308 ‘Behold the great Creator makes.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 304 ‘O little town of Bethlehem.’
Blessing
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
‘And Mary gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.’
The Lord of all born in a stable with a manger for his bed. Emmanuel, ‘God with us’ not with fanfare and trumpet call but quietly and humbly, as he still comes to hearts that will receive him.
Service 14th December 2025
3rd in Advent 14th December 2025
Hymn 197: As we are gathered Jesus is here; one with each other, Jesus is here; joined by the Spirit, washed in the blood, part of the body, the Church of God. As we are gathered Jesus is here; one with each other, Jesus is here.
Approach; Min: The desert and the parched land will be glad,
All: the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.
Min: Like the crocus it will burst into bloom;
All: it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
Min: The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
All: the splendour of Carmel and Sharon;
Min: they will see the glory of the Lord,
All: the splendour of our God. from Isaiah 35: 1-2.
. Hymn 149 ‘Let all creation dance.’
Hymn 505 v1 (back page)
All Age Talk
Hymn 284 vv. 1-3 ‘Hope is a candle.’
Prayer
God’s Word: Isaiah 35: 3-10.
Hymn 181 ‘For the beauty of the earth.’
St Matthew 11: 2-11.
Sermon: ‘John’s question and ours.’
Response: Hymn 562 ‘Through the love of God, our Saviour.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 248 ‘For my sake and the gospel’s go.’
Blessing: Benediction/ Threefold Amen
Hymn 786: ‘May the God of peace go with us as we travel from this place; may the love of Jesus keep us firm in hope and full of grace.’
Service 7th December 2025
Prepare the way of the Lord in the desert; make a highway in the wilderness for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill shall be made low, the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all humanity together will see it. from Isaiah 40: 3-5
Approach
Min: Prepare the way of the Lord in the desert;
All: make a highway in the wilderness for our God.
Min: Every valley shall be raised up,
All: every mountain and hill shall be made low,
Min: the rough ground shall become level,
All: the rugged places a plain.
Min: And the glory of the Lord will be revealed,
All: and all humanity together will see it. from Isaiah 40: 3-5
Hymn 472 ‘Come thou long expected Jesus.’
Hymn 505 v1 (back page)
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
All Age Talk
Hymn 284 vv. 1-2 ‘Hope is a candle.’
Prayer
God’s Word
Isaiah 11: 1-10.
Hymn 483 ‘Father of heaven, whose love profound.’
St Matthew 3: 1-12.
Sermon: ‘Prepare the Way of the Lord.’
Response
Hymn 336 ‘Christ be our light!’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 291 ‘When out of poverty is born.’
Blessing
Benediction/ Threefold Amen
Thought for the week.
‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ St Matthew 3: 3b
Preparations are well under way for Christmas, the lights have been switched on in the High Streets, the shops have started selling their Christmas fare, and Christmas lights and decorations can be seen on many houses. However, John reminds us of another preparation, the straightening out of our lives to welcome our Lord into our hearts afresh.
Service 30th November 2025
Sunday 30 November – First in Advent
Welcome , Announcements and Call to Worship
Organ Introit: Im wachet auf – music for Hymn 278.
Prayer Collect
Hymn CH4 273 Oh come oh come Emmanuel
Offering Prayer and Hymn: 505 All that I am
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Reading: OT ISAIAH 2: 1-5
Hymn: 543 Longing for light, we wait in darkness
Reading : NT Matthew 24: 36-44
SERMON
Hymn: 279 Make way, make way, for Christ the KING.
Prayers for Others
Hymn: 282 vv 1-4 only Christmas is coming
BENEDICTION
Service 23rd November 2025
Let praise to God resound in the heavens! Let praise to God fill the earth! Let all God’s angels offer praise and rejoicing! Let all God’s creatures sing praise and joy! Open your hearts and spirits today. Let us praise the Lord today and always!
Approach
Words of Welcome
Song 512. To God be the Glory
Song 736. Give thanks for life, the measure of our days
All age ‘feature’!
Song: Faith As Small As A Mustard Seed
Faith as small as a mustard seed
Will move mountains, move mountains
Faith as small as a mustard seed
Will move mountains by the power of God
Believe what Jesus said was true (oooh la la la)
Believe he meant it just for you (oooh la la la)
Wait and see what God will do (oooh la la la)
As you pray
As you pray
Do da do da, do da do do da, do da do da, mountains
Do da do da, do da do do da, do da do da, mountains
Do da do da, do da do do da, do da do da, mountains
Do da do da, do da do do da, do da do da, mountains
Word:
Bible reading – Mark 5: 24-34
Sermon: ‘One Touch!’
Musical reflection, prayer & Lord’s Prayer
Song 183: Fill now our life, O Lord our God (Tune of Ellacombe no.247)
Blessing
Benediction/Three Fold Amen
Service 16th November 2025
Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvellous things. The Lord has made his salvation known, and revealed his righteousness to the nations. All the ends of the earth, have seen the salvation of our God. from Ps 98
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: Sing to the Lord a new song,
All: for he has done marvellous things.
Min: The Lord has made his salvation known,
All: and revealed his righteousness to the nations.
Min: All the ends of the earth,
All: have seen the salvation of our God. from Ps 98
Hymn 173 ‘Sing to God new songs of worship.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
All Age Talk
Hymn 204 ‘I am the Church! (v.v. 1 & 2)
Prayer
God’s Word
1 Peter 2:
Hymn 200 ‘Christ is made the sure foundation.’
St Luke 21: 5-19
Sermon: ‘Beautiful Stones.’
Response
Hymn 739 ‘The Church’s one foundation’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 198 ‘Let us build a house.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen
Thought for the week. . ‘As you come to him, the living Stone – you also like living stones are being built into a spiritual house.’
1 Peter 2: 4a, 5a.
The Church is not a building, the Church is not a steeple, the Church is not a resting place, the Church is a people. Hymn 204 v1
Service 9th November
Remembrance Sunday
Rothes Order at War Memorial
Minister: We are gathered here to glorify God and not war.
We are gathered to give thanks to God for preserving this nation and its way of life through the sacrificial living and dying of thousands of ordinary men and women, and particularly those whose names are recorded on this war memorial.
Hymn
1. O God our help in ages past
our hope for years to come
our shelter from the stormy
blast, and our eternal home!
3 Before the hills in order stood,
or earth received her frame,
from everlasting thou art God
to endless years the same.
Prayer of Remembrance
Minister: Tryst
They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.
All: We will remember them.
Last Post
2 Minutes Silence
Reveille
Minister:
‘’When you go home, tell them of us and say,
‘For your tomorrow we gave our today.’
Laying of Wreaths.
Prayer.
Hymn
4. A thousand ages in thy sight
are like an evening gone;
short as the watch that ends the
night before the rising sun.
6. O God, our help in ages past,
our hope for years to come,
be thou our guard while troubles
last, and our eternal home!
Benediction.
‘Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.’ St John 15:13 NIV
Rothes Kirk
Approach:
Call to worship: Psalm 46: 1
Hymn 37 ‘God is our refuge, God our strength.’
Offering: Hymn 505 v1:
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
God’s Word
Isaiah 2: 2- 4.
Hymn 715 ‘Behold! the mountain of the Lord.
St. John 15: 9 -17.
Sermon: ‘Lest we Forget.’
Response
Hymn 706 ‘For the healing of the nations.’
Please remain standing.
Prayer of Remembrance.
Tryst
Silence
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer.
Hymn 710 ‘I have a dream.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen
Please remain standing.
National Anthem: Hymn 703 v1
There will be a Retiring Offering for the Poppy Appeal.
Service 2nd November 2025
Lord God, you are our rock and our fortress, for your name’s sake lead us and guide us. Love the Lord, all you his saints, for the Lord reserves the faithful. Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord. from Ps 31
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: Lord God, you are our rock and our fortress,
All: for your name’s sake lead us and guide us.
Min: Love the Lord, all you his saints,
All: for the Lord preserves the faithful.
Min: Be strong and let your heart take courage,
All: all you who wait for the Lord. from Ps 31
Hymn 167 ‘Guide me, O thou great Jehovah.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
All Age Talk
Hymn 530 ‘One more step.’ (v.v. 1 & 3)
Prayer
God’s Word
Jeremiah 31: 31-34.
Hymn 439 ‘Look, ye saints, the sight is glorious.’
Hebrews 12: 1- 4.
Sermon: ‘A great cloud of witnesses.’
Response
Hymn 517 ‘Fight the good fight with all thy might.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 740 ‘For all the saints.’ (omit v.v. 4-6)
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen
Thought for the week. ‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race that is marked out for us.’
Hebrews 12: 1
‘Quote: Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.’ Walter Elliot.
Service 19th October 2025
The Lord is the everlasting God, the creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint, nor grow weary. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they will mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. from Isaiah 40.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: The Lord is the everlasting God, the creator of the ends of the earth
All: He does not faint, nor grow weary.
Min: He gives power to the faint,
All: and strengthens the powerless.
Min: Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
All: they will mount up with wings like eagles,
Min: they shall run and not be weary,
All: they shall walk and not faint. from Isaiah 40.
Hymn 59 ‘Oh, come, and let us to the Lord.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word
Genesis 32: 22-31.
Hymn 755 ‘Be still and know that I am God.’
St. Luke 18: 1-8.
Sermon: ‘Stick with it.’
Response
Hymn 191 ‘Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 562 ‘Through the love of God, our Saviour.’
Blessing
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
‘However, when he comes will the Son of Man find faith on the earth.’
We live in a country in which Christian faith seems to be less relevant to many people. Faced with apathy and disinterest it is easy to become discouraged. Jesus’ parable encourages us to be persistent in our prayers and never to give up our mission to be his people so that, when he comes, he will ‘find faith on the earth’.
Service 12th October 2025
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to your name, O Most High. To declare your loving kindness in the morning, and your faithfulness every night. For you, O Lord, have made me glad through your work; at the work of your hands I sing for joy. from Psalm 92.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
All: and to sing praises to your name, O Most High.
Min: To declare your loving kindness in the morning,
All: and your faithfulness every night.
Min: For you, O Lord, have made me glad through your work;
All: at the work of your hands I sing for joy. from Psalm 92.
Hymn 229 ‘We plough the fields and scatter.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
All Age Talk.
JP 232 ‘Thank you Lord, for this fine day.’
Thank you, Lord, for this fine day,
thank you, Lord, for this fine day,
thank you, Lord, for this fine day,
right where we are.
Alleluia, praise the Lord!
Alleluia, praise the Lord!
Alleluia, praise the Lord!
right where we are.
Thank you, Lord, for loving us,
Thank you, Lord, for loving us,
Thank you, Lord, for loving us,
right where we are.
Alleluia…
Thank you, Lord, for giving us peace,
Thank you, Lord, for giving us peace,
Thank you, Lord, for giving us peace,
right where we are.
Alleluia…
Thank you, Lord, for setting us free,
Thank you, Lord, for setting us free,
Thank you, Lord, for setting us free,
right where we are.
Alleluia…
Prayer
Word
2 Cor. 9: 6-15.
Hymn 146 ‘From all that dwell below the skies.’
St. John 6: 1-13.
Sermon: ‘Sowing seeds.’
Response
Hymn 230 ‘Praise God for the harvest.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 153 ‘Great is they faithfulness.’
Blessing
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
‘’He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.’
How many kinds of different seeds we can sow. The seeds of generosity in our giving for others, the seeds of compassion and care, the seeds of grace and forgiveness, the seeds of our faith and hope in Jesus Christ. Whatever seeds we sow God will increase their harvest. So, let us sow generously. 2 Cor. 9; 10
Service 5th October 2025
Let the name of the Lord be praised, now and forevermore. From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised. Praise the Lord. from Psalm 113
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: Let the name of the Lord be praised,
All: now and forevermore.
Min: From the rising of the sun to its setting,
All: the name of the Lord is to be praised.
Praise the Lord. from Psalm 113
Hymn 202 ‘ Stand up and bless the Lord.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
All Age Talk.
JP 253 ‘The wise may bring their learning.’
Prayer
Word:
2 Timothy 1: 1-14.
Hymn 600 ‘Spirit of God, unseen as the wind.’
St. Luke 17: 1-10.
Sermon: ‘As a mustard seed.’
Response:
Hymn 644 ‘O Jesus, I have promised.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 532 ‘Lord, you have come to the seashore.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
‘If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, “be uprooted and planted in the sea,” and it will obey you.’
St Luke 17: 6
How is faith measured? Is it by being able to do fantastic things like telling a tree to be uprooted and planted in the sea? Jesus used hyperbole to point out that having faith isn’t about being able to do fantastic things. He then went on to talk about servants carrying out their duties. We have enough faith if, as followers of Jesus, we have faithfully done our duty every day.
Service 28th September 2025
Blessed are those whose hope is in the Lord their God, the maker of heaven and the Lord who remains faithful forever. Who upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hung The Lord reigns forever. Praise the Lord. from Psalm 146
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: Blessed are those whose hope is in the Lord their God,
All: the maker of heaven and earth.
Min: The Lord who remains faithful forever.
All: Who upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry.
Min: The Lord reigns forever.
All: Praise the Lord. from Psalm 146
Hymn 53 ‘O God, you are my God alone.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
All Age Talk
Hymn 620 ‘Spirit of the living God.’ x2
Prayer
Word:
1 Timothy 6: 17-end.
Hymn 622 ‘We sing a love that sets all people free.’
St. Luke 16: 19-end.
Sermon: ‘Dives and Lazarus.’
Response:
Hymn 616 ‘There’s a spirit in the air.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 465 ‘Be thou my vision.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
‘The world’s proverb is “God help the poor, for the rich can help themselves”, but to our mind, it is just the rich who have most need of heaven’s help. Diva’s in purple is worse off than Lazarus in rags unless divine love shall uphold him.’ Charles Spurgeon
‘Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.’ 1 Timothy 6: 18-19
Service 21st September 2025
How good and lovely it is to live together in unity. Love and faith come together, justice and peace join hands. Lord, open our lips and our mouths shall declare your praise.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: How good and lovely it is
All: to live together in unity.
Min: Love and faith come together,
All: justice and peace join hands.
Min: Lord, open our lips
All: and our mouths shall declare your praise.
Hymn 129 ‘The Lord is King! Lift up your voice.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
All Age Talk
Hymn SGP 3 ‘Abba Father.’ (back page)
SGP 3: Abba Father, let me be yours, and yours alone.
May my will forever be evermore your own.
Never let my heart grow cold, never let me go.
Abba Father, let me be yours, and yours alone.
Prayer
Word:
1 Timothy 2: 1-7.
Hymn 268 ‘O God of Bethel!’
St. Matthew 5: 43-48.
Sermon: ‘Pray for Everyone.’
Response:
Hymn 624 ‘In Christ there is no east or west.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 724 ‘Christ’s is the world in which we move.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
The world is sadly divided and many people are choosing the extremes of political opinion. Paul urges Christians to pray for all, even those who may take up positions at odds with our own.
‘First of all then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for everyone.’ 1 Timothy 2: 1
Communion 14th September 2025
Good and upright is the Lord; therefore, he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.
Approach
Min: Good and upright is the Lord; therefore, he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.
Hymn 63 ‘All people that on earth do dwell.’
Offering forward - Hymn 505 v1
Min: Let us pray in the name of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd’
All: Almighty and eternal Lord God, we rejoice that Jesus Christ, our Lord, is the Good Shepherd who searches for the lost sheep of his pasture and brings them home rejoicing – through his obedient love and sacrifice we are all made new – attune our minds to the sound of his voice, lead our steps in the paths he has shown, that we may know his strength and enjoy the light of his presence forever. For we ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever. Amen.
Min: Let us confess our sins to God. Let us pray.
All: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden; cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Most merciful Lord God, we confess that we have sinned in thought, word, and deed, through our own fault and in common with others. We are truly sorry and turn humbly from our sins. Lord, have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord, have mercy.
Min: May Almighty God have mercy upon us, pardon and deliver us from all our sins, confirm and strengthen us in all goodness, and keep us in life eternal, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
All: Amen. The Lord’s Prayer.
God’s Word
R: 1 Timothy 1: 12-17.
Hymn 462 ‘The King of Love my Shepherd is.’
R: St. Luke 15: 1-10.
Sermon: ‘The friend of sinners.’
Response
Hymn 555 ‘Amazing grace!'
Please remain standing.
Affirmation
All: We believe in the God of Life who creates and loves people,
who acts in history, and who never leaves us alone.
We believe in Jesus of Nazareth, who is Lord and Redeemer,
who wants, not to be idolised, but to be followed.
We believe that we live in the presence of the Holy Spirit,
without whom we are nothing: but filled with the Holy Spirit
we are able to become creative, lively and free.
We believe in the Church of Jesus Christ,
a community where we can grow in understanding of our faith,
through worship, fellowship and action.
We believe that God has a purpose for us in this time and this place.
We believe in living, hoping, laughing and enjoying the good earth.
We believe that people can change, that attitudes can change,
and that God keeps leading us towards life,
and to a new world of justice and joy. Amen
Prayers of Thanksgiving & Intercession.
Holy Communion: Hymn 656 ‘I come with joy a child of God.’
Invitation: This is the Table, not of the Church, but of the Lord. It is made ready for those who love him a little but want to love him more.
So come, whether you have much faith or only a little. Come, if you have been here often or have not been for a long time. Come if you have tried to follow the Lord Jesus Christ and have failed. Come, because you are invited by our Lord Jesus Christ. It is his will that all those who want to know and serve him better should meet him here.
Institution: Hear the words of the Institution of the Lord’s Supper as they are recorded for us by Saint Paul, who wrote, ‘On the night on which our Lord was arrested he took bread and, after giving thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way after the supper, he took the cup and said, “This cup is the New Covenant sealed in my blood. Whenever you drink it do it remembering me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.’ 1 Cor. 11: 23-26.
The Great Prayer
Min: The Lord be with you.
Cong: And also with you.
Min: Lift up your hearts.
Cong: We lift them up to the Lord.
Min: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
Cong: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Min: Father, all powerful and ever living God, we do well always and everywhere to give you thanks for all our blessings. We gratefully remember that you gave your only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd who died and rose again. In him a new age has dawned, a broken world is made new, and humanity is again made whole. Therefore, we join our praises with all your people in heaven and on earth to proclaim your glory saying:
All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Min: Now we celebrate the feast of our redemption………
… that with the faithful of all ages, we may with one voice and
one heart glorify your most holy name.
All: And here we offer and present to you our very selves, to be a living sacrifice, dedicated and fit for your acceptance through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Through him, with him, in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honour are yours, Almighty Father, now and forevermore. Amen.
Breaking of Bread:
Min:Jesus, Lamb of God.
All: Have mercy upon us.
Min: Jesus, bearer of our sins.
All: Have mercy upon us.
Min:Jesus, Redeemer of the world.
All: Grant us your peace.
Communion Shared.
Prayer
Hymn 549 ‘How deep the Father’s love for us.'
Blessing: Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Meditation for 31st August 2025
Come, let us worship the God who invites us to take the lower place,
who calls us to lives of humility, compassion, and grace.
Let us delight in God’s commands—doing good, showing kindness,
loving the stranger, remembering the forgotten.
We gather not for honour, but to honour the One
who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Let our praise rise, not only in words, but in lives that reflect God’s justice and generosity. Come, let us worship the Lord with reverence, with joy, and with open hearts.
CH4 522 – “The Church is wherever God’s people are praising” –
Prayer
Merciful God,
You invite us to live with humility,
to take the lower seat,
to love without seeking reward.
Yet we confess that we often chase recognition,
protect our pride and serve only when it suits us.
You call us to remember those who are forgotten,
to welcome the stranger,
to honour relationships,
and to be content with what we have.
But too often we turn inward—
neglecting the needs of others
and grasping for what does not last.
Forgive us, Lord,
when our lives do not reflect Your generous love.
Renew our hearts by Your Spirit,
that we may live uprightly, love freely,
and walk humbly in Your grace.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord,
Amen.
Reading
Luke 14:1, 7-14
CH4 544 – “When I needed a neighbour, were you there, were you there?”
Blessing
May God give you the grace to walk humbly,
to seek not the highest seat, but the path of quiet service.
And may Christ Himself call you forward,
saying, "Friend, come up higher".
As you live with compassion, welcome the stranger,
and honour others above yourself.
As you leave here today, go in peace and walk in the way of Christ.
Amen.
Service 24th August 2025
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. O give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures forever. O give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever. from Psalm 136
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
All: for his steadfast love endures forever.
Min: O give thanks to the God of gods,
All: for his steadfast love endures forever.
Min: O give thanks to the God of heaven,
All: for his steadfast love endures forever. from Psalm 136
Hymn 93 ‘Let us with a gladsome mind.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
Isaiah 58: 3-9.
Hymn 607 ‘The bright wind is blowing.’
St. Luke 13: 10-17.
Sermon: ‘Straight and Free.’
Response:
Hymn 718 ‘We cannot measure how you heal.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 521 ‘ Children of God, reach out to one another.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
‘When Jesus saw the woman he called her over and said, ‘Woman, you are set free from your ailment.’ When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God.’ St Luke 13 : 12-13
Service 17th August 2025
O sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless his name, tell of his salvation from day to day. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be revered above all gods. psalm 96
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: O sing to the Lord a new song,
All: sing to the Lord all the earth.
Min: Sing to the Lord, bless his name,
All: tell of his salvation from day to day.
Min: For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised;
All: he is to be revered above all gods. from Psalm 96
Hymn 125 ‘Lord of all being, throned afar.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
Malachi 3: 1-4.
Hymn 583 ‘Spirit divine, attend our prayers.’
St. Luke 12: 49-56.
Sermon: ‘Fire on the earth.’
Response:
Hymn 497 ‘Almighty Father of all things that be.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 352/2 ‘O for a thousand tongues to sing.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
Jesus said, ‘I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed!’ Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.’
Service 10th August 2025
The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall rise up on wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: The Lord is the everlasting God,
All: the Creator of the ends of the earth.
Min: Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
All: they shall rise up on wings like eagles,
Min: they shall run and not be weary;
All: they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:28, 31
Hymn 127 ‘O worship the King.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
Hebrews 11: 1-3, 8-16.
Hymn 608 ‘Spirit of truth and grace.’
St. Luke 12: 32 -40.
Sermon: ‘Waiting for the Kingdom.’
Response:
Hymn 261 ‘Father eternal, Ruler of Creation.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 473 ‘Thy kingdom come!’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
Jesus said, ‘Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes.’ St Luke 12: 35
Service 3rd August 2025
I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. Psalm 34: 1-3.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: I will bless the Lord at all times;
All: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
Min: My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
All: let the humble hear and be glad.
Min: O magnify the Lord with me,
All: and let us exalt his name together. Psalm 34: 1-3.
Hymn 132 ‘Immortal invisible, God only wise.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
1 Timothy 6: 6-19.
Hymn 42 ‘Only on God, do thou my soul.’
St. Luke 12: 13-21.
Sermon: ‘Real Life.’
Response:
Hymn 509 ‘Jesus calls us!’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 192 ‘All my hope on God is founded.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
Riches in heaven: Jesus told a parable about a man of great wealth who planned for a comfortable future only to die that very night. Jesus ended the parable, “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So it is with those who store up treasure for themselves but are not rich towards God.”
Service 27th July 2025
Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake their way, and the unrighteous their thoughts; let them return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55: 6-7
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: Seek the Lord while he may be found,
All: call upon him while he is near;
Min: let the wicked forsake their way,
All: and the unrighteous their thoughts;
Min: let them return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on them,
All: and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55: 6-7
Hymn 210 ‘Awake my soul, and with the sun.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
1 Thessalonians 5: 16 -28.
Hymn 599 ‘Holy Spirit, hear us.’
St. Luke 11: 1-13.
Sermon: ‘When you pray.’
Response:
Hymn 552 ‘Oh, for a closer walk with God.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 641 ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
Jesus said, ‘Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks the door will be opened.’
When asked about prayer Jesus taught his disciples the Lord’s prayer and then told them the parable of the friend at midnight. A parable about persistence in prayer and seeking the kingdom
Service 20th July 2025
O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care.” from Psalm 95.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: O come, let us sing to the Lord;
All: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
Min: Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;
All: let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!
Min: For he is our God,
All: and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care.” from Psalm 95.
Hymn 175 ‘Praise, I will praise you Lord.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
Colossians 3: 12 – 17.
Hymn 601 ‘Look upon us blessed Lord.’
St. Luke 10: 38 -42.
Sermon: ‘Martha and Mary.’
Response:
Hymn 183 ‘Fill now our life, O Lord our God.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 529 ‘Forth in thy name, O Lord I go.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
Jesus said, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by so many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’
A commentator on this passage said, ‘Jesus was not getting at the ‘busy’ Martha but at the ‘distracted’ Martha.’ There is a difference between being busy and being distracted from our Lord and his Word.
Service 13th July 2025
The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength. Do not take revenge or bear a grudge against a neighbour, but love your neighbour as yourself.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.
All: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength. Deuteronomy 6: 4-5
Min: Do not take revenge or bear a grudge against a neighbour,
All: but love your neighbour as yourself. Leviticus 19: 18
Hymn 181 ‘For the beauty of the earth.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
Colossians 1: 3-14.
Hymn 115 ‘Love is the touch of intangible joy.’
St. Luke 10: 25-37.
Sermon: ‘Go and do likewise.’
Response:
Hymn 544 ‘When I needed a neighbour.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 357 ‘This is my will, my new command.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
An expert in the law asked Jesus, ‘Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ After asking what the man thought, Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan and asked the expert in the law, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’ Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
Service 6th July 2025
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. A word aptly spoken, is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
Approach:
Hymn 197 : As we are Gathered
Min: A gentle answer turns away wrath,
All: but a harsh word stirs up anger. Prov. 15:1
Min: The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life,
All: but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. Prov.15: 4
Min: A word aptly spoken,
All: is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Prov.25:11
Hymn 172 ‘Sing for God’s glory.’
Hymn 505 v1
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Take and sanctify these gifts for your honour, Lord.
Knowing that I love and serve you is enough reward.
All that I am, all that I do,
all that I’ll ever have I offer now to you.
Prayer
Word:
Galatians 6: 1-16.
Hymn 707 ‘Healing river of the Spirit.’
St. Luke 10: 1-11, 16-20.
Sermon: ‘Setting right – gently.’
Response:
Hymn 542 ‘Lord, speak to me that I may speak.’
Prayer/ Lord’s Prayer
Hymn 522 ‘The Church is ….. God’s people are praising.’
Blessing:
Benediction/ Threefold Amen.
Hymn 786: May the God of peace go with us
Thought for the Week
‘Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore them gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.’
- Galatians 6: 1.
Mortlach and Rothes Church 