Please find below the launching liturgy that congregations can use from 15 April 2018 to 14 April 2019, each week with a different bibel verse.
Call to worship
Lighting of the Candle of Hope
Song: 25 years celebration song: Hosanna 116, Sionsgesang 278/279
Law: 1 John 4:7-8
Song
Confession of Belhar
Song
Announcing the theme of the celebrations
Thanksgiving prayer for the past 25 years: Older member in congregation
Scripture Reading and sermon: Psalm 40
Litany of Praise (based on Psalm 40):
Liturgist (L): Today we celebrate the birth of the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa 24 years ago.
Congregation (C): Many, o Lord our God, are the wonders you have done.
L: For 24 years the truth of your word has led and guided us on our journey together
C: Many, o Lord our God, are the wonders you have done.
L: You have guided us as we seek to stay true to our calling to be the prophetic voice in search of unity, reconciliation and justice.
C: Many, o Lord our God, are the wonders you have done
L: You have given us the courage to stand where you stand
C: Many, o Lord our God, are the wonders you have done
L: You have given us ordinary women, men, youth and children who have done extra-ordinary things in the establishment of your kingdom
C: There would be too many to declare
L: We come before you with thanksgiving for the past, with joy in the present, and hope for the future as we celebrate this 25th year of our united existence.
C: Many, o Lord our God, are the wonders you have done.
Congregation sings Sionsgesang 29/Hosanna (O Lord my God)
Prayer for the coming 25 years: Young member in congregation
Song: Hosanna 30, Sionsgesang 43
Sending out