St. Paul United Church of Christ, Taylor, Michigan
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost/ June 21, 2026
Father’s Day
As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. ~Psalm 103:13
Ringing of the Bell
Prelude Ava Janus, Music Director
Welcome Pastor Cheryl Schalm
A Salute to Fathers and Father Figures
*Congregational Greeting
*Call to Worship (unison) Tim Ruffner, Liturgist
Come, bless the Lord with me! For the Lord is like a father to his children, compassionate and merciful, filled with endless love. He forgives our sins and heals the sickness inside us; he surrounds us with love and mercy and fills our lives with good things! Let’s worship God together!
*Hymn No. 59 “This Is My Father’s World” Tim Ruffner, Hymn Lea
Joys & Concerns
*Morning Prayer Pastor Schalm
One: Let us pray.
All: Loving God, you who are our father and our mother, we thank you that you have shown us how important it is to follow your example as we grow in faith. Teach us to be obedient to your will, respecting you as children ought. Thank you for your mercy despite our disobedience. Strengthen us to stand up against the challenges of this world, honoring your name and trusting your grace. In the Name of your Son, we pray. Amen.
Special Music (Unison Sing-along 2x) “O Mein Papa” (insert)
Presentation of Tithes and Offerings “Heart of the Father,” Ryan Ellis
*Doxology
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow; praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
First Lesson: Proverbs 3:1-12 Tim Ruffner
Unison Prayer for Illumination Pastor Schalm
Lord, Your Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. As we prepare to hear Your message, grant us clarity and understanding. We do not want to simply hear words—we want to understand Your heart. Unveil the truths of Scripture. Help us interpret it faithfully, discern it wisely, and apply it diligently. Remove any confusion or misunderstanding that might distort Your message. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Gospel Lesson: Luke 15:11-32
Message: “The Heart Of The Father” Pastor Schalm
*Hymn No. 86 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
A Father’s Day Prayer Eleanor & Lizzie Ruffner
Lord’s Prayer (unison)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever Amen.
*Closing Hymn No. 494 “They’ll Know We Are Christians”
*Benediction
Postlude /Recessional: Please remain in your pews as our Pastor leads the way into the world at the close of service.
*Congregation, please stand as you are able.
Our mission at St. Paul United Church of Christ is to promote God’s plan of salvation in our church, family, and community. Knowing that all blessings come from God, we seek to share these in the church universal and proclaim God’s good news of His love and compassion bringing together all people in Jesus Christ.
Rev. Lesa Branham Senior Pastor
Ava Janus Director of Music
Toni HIll Council Rep
Jeannette Wackro Deacon
Tim Ruffner Liturgist
Email [email protected]
Website: www.stpaulucctaylor.org
DONUTS FOR DADS the Christian Education ministry is honoring all men of our congregation, with a special “Donuts for Dads” Coffee Hour. Please join us and share a blessing for the men among us. Invite a friend to attend worship and stay for refreshments as we rejoice in God’s goodness!
ROSE ON THE PULPIT celebrates the birth of Colby Allen Eisenga, born June 16, 2026, to Joshua and Chelsy Eisenga. St. Paul Grandparents are James & Cheryl Schalm. St. Paul Great-grandparent is Pat Herkimer.
WORSHIP PLANNING will gather in the Parlor on Tuesday, June 23, 5:30 p.m. Elders and Deacons please send a representative. All are welcome to share their thoughts and ideas regarding worship services. CABINET WILL MEET at 6:45 p.m. in the West Room. This is a picnic planning meeting. A representative from each ministry should attend.
WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP LUNCHEON Thursday, June 25, 12 noon at Woodside Meadows, 20820 Inkster Rd., Romulus, 48174 (734-782-5136). All ladies are invited. Today is the deadline to R.S.V.P. to Chairperson, Toni Hill at 734.725.1060.
“THANK YOU” for all of the thoughts, prayers, and cards after my injury. They were a comfort to me as I travel a long road to recovery. Thank you again, Kathy Peters.
OUR SEMI-ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING follows our worship service July 12. Your attendance is important to be sure we have a quorum. Mark your calendars and plan on attending. There is no coffee hour that Sunday.
COFFEE WITH PASTOR LESA. This is a relaxed opportunity to connect, share conversation, and build relationships within our church family. Whether you’re new to St. Paul United Church of Christ or have been here for years, all are welcome. Come enjoy a cup of coffee, fellowship, and meaningful conversation. Listed are the dates: Tuesday, June 30, 2026 – 10:00 a.m.; Wednesday, July 1, 2026 – 6:00 p.m.; Saturday, July 25, 2026 – Noon; Sunday, August 5 – Following Worship Service
OPPORTUNITIES FOR MINISTRY AND FELLOWSHIP
Calendar Week June 21 - June 28 Sunday Worship Service 10:00 a.m. – Pastor Cheryl Schalm
Father’s Day / Sunday School / Donuts for Dad 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday Bible Study 10:30 a.m./ Worship Planning 5:30 p.m./ Cabinet 6:45 p.m.
Thursday Sewing Guild 10:00 a.m./ Exercise 11:00 / Women’s Fellowship Lunch 12
Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m. – Rev. Lesa Branham
Sunday School 10:00 a.m. / Coffee Hour 11:00 a.m.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Do you enjoy singing, playing an instrument, welcoming guests, helping with technology, or serving behind the scenes? There are many opportunities to share your gifts and talents in the life of our church. We are currently seeking volunteers for music ministry, including singers and instrumentalists, as well as worship support, children's ministry, technology ministries, and a photographer. Whether you can serve occasionally or on a regular basis, there is a place for you. Contact the church office (313.291.1221) for more information and to learn how you can get involved. Together, let's use our gifts to glorify God and strengthen our church family.
SPECIAL MUSIC SIGN-UP SHEET is located in the church office. Please add your name and the title of your piece to the list next to the date. If you have any questions, please contact Music Director, Ava Janus, the church office, or complete a Make – A – Wish card.
REMEMBER TO SUPPORT our ongoing food collection for Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry. Food staples are always in need as we recognize the food insecurity within our neighborhood. Donations can be placed near the front entrance of the church or in the box near the office and west entrance. Please, that all donations are appreciated!
FELLOWSHIP OF CONCERN:
DeAnna Schalm, Kirk Blanchard, Pauline Arndt, Harold Fick, Roy Staffeld, Makenna Gorbe, Holly Staten Thompson, Sally Sigman, Joan Smarr, Pam Martinez, Henry Martinez, Steve Newberry, Kelly Potter, Jefff MacZink, Randy Snelson, Dave & Denise Thorpe, Cindy Terwillger, Dave Terwillger