 Fruitland United Methodist Church May 10, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “Joyful, Joyful we Adore Thee” by Ludwig van Beethoven Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. Welcome and Announcements Letha & Jorge Good morning and welcome to worship. Today we gather to praise God and to give thanks for the gift of mothers-- for their love, their strength, and their witness in our lives. We also hold space for those whose hearts carry both gratitude and longing today. Call to Worship. (based on Psalm 128:1-3) Letha Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways. We will eat the fruit of our labor; we will be blessed and it will be well with us. Your family will be a blessing, a place of life and hope. We come to worship the God who gives life, nurtures us, and sustains us. Let us worship God with grateful hearts. *Sharing the peace of Christ. “The peace of the risen Christ be with you... *Sing: “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” UMH 89 Scripture Reading: Psalm 113:1-9 UMH 834 Time With Young Christians: Leslie Ward (Please write prayer concerns and celebrations on yellow notepads, to be collected.) Community Expressions Hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Gratitude for mothers, grandmothers, and caregivers Prayer for those who grieve or feel absence Prayer for families and community “...and now, we pray in the way that Jesus taught us to pray:” The Lord’s Prayer “Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven....” Scripture Reading: Luke 1:46-49 Letha Pew Bible 1589 Music: “Open Our Eyes, Lord” TFWS 2086 Invitation to Generosity – Pastor Jorge Offertory “Ave Maria” by J.S. Bach *Doxology: Praise God, from whom all blessings flow . . . UMH 95 Scripture Reading: Proverbs 31:15-29 Pew Bible 1032 *Hymn: “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” UMH 140 Sermon: “The Love That Resembles God” Rev. Jorge Rodriguez Mother’s Day Proverbs 31:25-28 “Strength and dignity are her clothing... Her children rise up and call her blessed...” There are stories that are not written in books, yet they hold the world together. They are not found in headlines or broadcast across the news, but they are the kind of stories that sustain life, shape communities, and leave lasting marks on the hearts of those who live them. Today, on this Mother’s Day, I want to share one of those stories; the story of a mother, my mother. My mother was the only woman among four brothers. From a very young age, she learned how to make her own way in a world that was not always ready to make space for her. She did not wait for opportunities to come; she learned how to create them. When my parents separated, I was only eight years old, and from that point forward, I grew up with her. And when I say I grew up with her, I do not mean simply that we lived under the same roof. I mean that I was formed by her effort, shaped by her discipline, and sustained by her constant and faithful love. The words of Scripture say, “Strength and dignity are her clothing,” and for me, those words are not abstract or poetic alone; they are deeply personal. I saw them lived out in her life every day. My mother was a teacher, -a community- based teacher during the 1960s and 1970s, a time when there were not enough formally trained teachers in rural areas. Yet she taught with dedication and purpose. She embodied the truth that there are people who do not wait until they have everything in order to serve; instead, they serve faithfully with what they have. She was also a hardworking woman who managed to build her home and raise her four children with determination and resilience. But beyond her labor, she was also an artist with her hands. She became the florist of the community, bringing beauty into the lives of others in moments of celebration and remembrance. Where others saw simple flowers, she saw meaning, color, and possibility. Where others saw work, she saw purpose. Scripture also says, “She opens her mouth with wisdom,” yet I have come to understand that there are mothers who preach without speaking many words. They preach through their actions. They preach when they rise early to provide. They preach when they stretch limited resources to meet real needs. They preach when they refuse to give up, even when circumstances are difficult. My mother taught us an essential truth: that everyone in the household contributes. From an early age, we learned that love is not only about receiving; it is also about participating, about sharing responsibility, and about helping carry the weight of life together. She was a woman of faith, a faith she inherited from my grandmother, who served as a lay leader in the church during times when access to clergy was limited. It was a simple faith, but it was strong and enduring. It did not depend on favorable circumstances or institutional structures; it was rooted in conviction and trust in God. That faith sustained my mother, and through her, it sustained all of us. My mother also came from an indigenous background, from the Mayan culture, and in that heritage, there is a profound story of resilience, dignity, and identity. It is a story marked by struggle, yet also by perseverance, hope, and a deep capacity to love. That story lives in her, and through her, it lives in me. So when I read the words, “Her children rise up and call her blessed,” I do not hear mere poetry. I hear justice. I hear recognition. I hear gratitude for a life poured out in service and love. And it leads me to say something carefully, but truthfully: a mother’s love is the closest many of us have experienced to the love of God. It is a love that does not give up, a love that provides, a love that corrects, and a love that remains even when life is not easy. In many ways, God has loved us through them. That is why today is not just another day. I am convinced that this reflection and this testimony echo the feelings of many who are gathered here. Every day is important, but this day is unique. It is a day set apart to say to our mothers, to our daughters, to our grandmothers, and to our wives how deeply grateful we are. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for your life. If your mother is with you today, take a moment to embrace her and let her know what she means to you. If she is no longer with you, give thanks to God for her life and the legacy she has left in you. And if your story is different, if there is pain or absence, remember this: the love of God reaches you today as well. In the end, all true love comes from Him. “Blessings to every mother on her day.” Amen. Prayer of Confession: Loving God, we thank you for the gift of those who have nurtured us. Forgive us when we fail to honor them as we should. Heal our memories where there is pain and help us to reflect your love in our relationships. In Christ we pray, Amen. Sing: “In His Time” TFWS # 2203 Pastoral Benediction: Go in peace, honoring the love that has shaped you, and sharing the love that comes from God. May you carry gratitude in your hearts, and may God’s grace surround you today and always. *Song of Blessing: “Halle, Halle, Hallelujah” TFWS 2026 Postlude: “Down to the River to Pray.” African-American spiritual Note: Next week, May 17, is United Methodist Student Sunday. A Special offering will be taken to support United Methodist Scholarships. Pastor Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]
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 Fruitland United Methodist Church May 3rd , 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: Lamb of God by Twila Paris Welcoming the Light of Christ Welcome & Announcements: Rev. Jorge R. & Holly K. Good morning, church. Welcome to this time of worship as we gather in the presence of God. Today we come not only to hear the Word, but to receive the grace of Christ at His table. Call to Worship (based on Psalm 95) 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 and praise. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. We come to worship, to listen, and to receive. All: Let us worship God! *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: We are One in Christ Jesus/Somos uno en Cristo Scripture Readings: Psalm 119: Holly K. Reader: The Word of God for the people of God. People: Thanks be to God. Time with young Christians Pastor Jorge R. Community Expressions Rev. Jorge & Holly K. Hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Thanksgiving & Celebration Prayers for Healing & Wholeness Our Community & World Let us Pray The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name….. Invitation to Generosity Rev. Jorge R. Offertory: “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” by John Greenleaf Whittier and Frederick Maher *Doxology: Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95 Gospel Reading: John 14:1-14 Holly K. Hymn: “Sanctuary” TFWS 2164 Sermon: Do Not Let Your Heart Be Troubled” Rev. Jorge R. John 14:1–14 There are days… and then there are moments when the heart becomes troubled. Not because of small things, but because of those realities we cannot control: loss… uncertainty… a future we cannot clearly see. Jesus speaks these words in one of those moments. Not on a day of celebration. Not in a moment of victory. But on the eve of the cross. The disciples are confused. They have left everything to follow Him… and now He is talking about leaving. And then Jesus says: “Do not let your heart be troubled.” Jesus does not deny their reality. He does not say, “There is no problem.” He does not say, “Everything is easy.” Instead, He says: “Believe in God. Believe also in me.” Faith does not remove the storm… but it changes where we stand in it. There is a difference between living through uncertainty… and living through it without hope. Jesus invites them—and us—to trust even when we do not understand. Then He adds a promise: “In my Father’s house are many dwelling places.” This is more than a promise about heaven. It is a declaration of belonging. “You are not alone. You have a place. You have a home. There is a future prepared for you.” In a world where many feel displaced, unseen, or forgotten… Jesus says: You belong. Not because of what you have done, but because of who God is. Thomas, with honest courage, asks: “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” And Jesus responds: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” He does not give directions. He does not hand them a map. He gives them Himself. The way is not a path we figure out… it is a relationship we enter into. Following Jesus is not about having all the answers. It is about trusting the One who walks with us. Then Philip says: “Lord, show us the Father.” And Jesus answers: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” If you want to know what God is like… look at Jesus. Look at how He touches the sick, how He listens to the forgotten, how He forgives, how He draws near, and how He loves. God is not distant. God is not abstract. God has come near. And then comes a surprising promise: “The one who believes in me will also do the works that I do… and, in fact, will do greater works than these.” This sounds impossible. But Jesus is telling them: “My work does not end here. It continues through you.” Faith is not only comfort. Faith is also calling. The church is not only a place that remembers Jesus… it is a community that lives His work in the world. So today we hear again these words: “Do not let your heart be troubled.” Not because everything is solved… but because Christ is present. Not because we understand everything… but because we know the One who is the way. Not because there is no pain… but because there is hope. Prayer Lord Jesus, when our hearts are troubled, teach us to trust in you. When we cannot see the way, remind us that you are the way. And when we feel uncertain, help us to live as your people, continuing your work in the world. Amen. Holy Communion Invitation: Christ our Lord invites to His table all who love Him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another. Confession and Pardon Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Time of Silence… Words of Assurance Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen. *Hymn: “One Bread One Body” UMH 2130 The Great Thanksgiving The Lord be with you. And also with you. Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise. 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. Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again. Pastor continue with blessing the elements… The Lord’s Prayer Our Father, who art in heaven… Breaking the Bread & Sharing the Cup The body of Christ, given for you. The blood of Christ, given for you. Song During Communion One Bread One Body UMH #620 *Sharing the Bread and the Cup (All are welcome at Christ’s Table.) Prayer After Communion: Eternal God, we give you thanks for this holy mystery in which you have given yourself to us. Grant that we may go into the world in the strength of your Spirit, to give ourselves for others, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. *Closing Hymn Go, Tell It on the Mountain – UMH 251 Benediction: Go forth in peace. Walk in the light of Christ. Share the good news with joy. And may the blessing of God Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  Fruitland United Methodist Church April 26th, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: Welcoming the Light of Christ Welcome & Announcements: Rev. Jorge R. & Leona W. Call to Worship The Lord is our Shepherd; we shall not want. He leads us beside still waters and restores our souls. Jesus calls us by name and leads us to life. We listen for His voice and follow Him. All: Let us worship the Good Shepherd who gives us abundant life. *Sharing the Peace of Christ. “The peace of the rise Christ be with you... *Sing: “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us” UMH #381 Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42-47 Leona W. Time with young Christians Pastor Jorge R. Community Expressions Rev. Jorge & Leona W. Hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy” Thanksgiving & Celebration Prayers for Healing & Wholeness Our Community & World “and now, we pray in the way that Jesus taught us to pray:” The Lord’s Prayer 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 trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen Scripture Reading: I Peter 2:19-25 Leona W. Sing: “Give Thanks” TFWS 2036 Invitation to Generosity Rev. Jorge R. Offertory: *Doxology: Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95 Scripture Reading: John 10:1-10 Leona W. Hymn: “You Are My Hiding Place” TFWS 2055 Sermon: A Pastor in the Way of Jesus Rev. Jorge R. Prayer of Confession: Merciful Shepherd, we confess that we have not always listened to Your voice. We have followed other voices that lead us away from life. We have wandered in our own ways and forgotten Your care. Forgive us, O Lord. Call us again by name. Lead us back to Your path of life and peace. In Christ’s name, Amen. Words of Assurance: Pastor: Hear the good news: The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and restored. Thanks be to God. *Song: “The Summons” TFWS 2130 *Pastoral Benediction: Go now, listening for the voice of the Good Shepherd. Follow where Christ leads you. Serve with love and compassion. And May you know the abundant life that is found in Him alone. *Song of Blessing: “We Are Marching in The Light of God” TFWS 2235-b Postlude: Rev. Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]  Fruitland United Methodist Church April 19, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “Arioso” by G.F. Handel Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. Welcome and Announcements Call to Worship Liturgist There are days . . . And then, there is “that” day. Days that pass without leaving a mark . . . And days that change everything. When hope feels lost . . . Christ walks beside us. When our hearts are weary . . . Christ speaks and restores us. When we do not recognize Him . . . He is still near. Stay with us, Lord. Walk with us. Speak to us. Set our hearts on fire again. Amen *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: “Shine, Jesus, Shine” TFWS 2173 *Scripture: Psalm 34: 1-10 Read responsively. Liturgist Time with Young Christians Pastor Jorge Please write prayer concerns and celebrations on yellow notepads, to be collected. Community Expressions Pastor Jorge & Liturgist Sing: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Thanksgiving and Celebration Prayers for Healing and Wholeness Our Community and World Let us pray. Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name . . . Scripture: 1 Peter 1:17-23 Liturgist *Sing: “They’ll Know We Are Christians” TFWS 2223 Invitation to Generosity Pastor Jorge Offertory: “My Jesus, I Love Thee” by Adoriram Gordon *Doxology: UMH 95 Gospel Reading: Luke 24: 13-35 Liturgist The Word of God for the people of God People: Thanks be to God *Sing: “When the Poor Ones” UMH 434 Sermon: “THAT SAME DAY” Rev. Jorge Rodriguez Matthew 24:13-35 There are days... and then there is that day. Days that pass without leaving a mark and days that change everything. Jesus reminds us: “the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13) But no one tells us how hard it is to endure when your world is falling apart. That same day... two disciples were walking to Emmaus. They were not famous. Not leaders. Not the inner circle. They were almost unknown. They were... like us. And why them? Why didn’t Jesus appear first to the strong, the certain, the unshakable? Because the Lord is not looking for great names, He is looking for weary hearts. They were on the road to Emmaus. But why Emmaus? Maybe because it was far from Jerusalem. Far from the pain. Far from the cross. Maybe they were running away. Because when hope breaks, we don’t run forward, we drift away. They had seen too much: betrayal, suffering, death. The end of everything they believed in. And they said it plainly: “We had hoped...” Not we hope. But we had hoped. For them, faith had become past tense. And yet... the sun rose. Against all logic. Against every feeling. The sun rose just as it rises over our darkest moments. And with that sunrise came rumors: an empty tomb, angels, voices speaking of life. Too much to believe. Too much to ignore. So they walked on confused, overwhelmed, suspended between grief and something they dared not yet call hope. Then... Jesus came near. Not with power. Not with spectacle. Just walking beside them. That is how God often comes quietly, yet changing everything. “What are you discussing?” He asked. And the question hurt. Because when we speak our pain, we feel it all over again. They answered like a confession of broken faith: “About Jesus... mighty in deeds... crucified... and we had hoped...” How many of us could say the same? “I had hoped in that relationship...” “I had hoped in that dream...” “I had hoped in God...” But Jesus did not leave them there. He spoke. He explained. He reminded them of the story they thought they knew, from beginning to end. He showed them that suffering was not the end, but the way. That the cross was not defeat, but fulfillment. That the worst day... was actually the turning point of everything. And as they walked, something happened. Not around them, within them. Their hearts began to burn. They didn’t understand everything. But they felt something awakening. Hope... returning quietly. When they reached Emmaus, they urged Him: “Stay with us.” Because Jesus never forces His way in. He waits to be invited. They opened the door, and He entered. He sat at the table. He took the bread. He broke it. And in that moment... everything became clear. They recognized Him. And just as suddenly, He was gone. Because now they no longer needed to see Him with their eyes. They knew Him in their hearts. “Were not our hearts burning within us?” Yes burning with truth, burning with hope, burning with life again. Because death did not have the final word. “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Matthew 24:35) And then they did something unexpected: they ran back. In the dark. Without fear. Because when you truly encounter Christ you cannot stay where you are. And what about us? We also walk roads to Emmaus roads of doubt, of disappointment, of “we had hoped.” But we are not alone. Because Jesus still walks beside us, even when we do not recognize Him. He still speaks. Still explains. Still breaks bread. Still sets hearts on fire. Why those two disciples? Because they are all of us the weary, the confused, the searching. Us. And this is the good news: Maybe today... is that same day for you. The day when everything seemed lost but was only just beginning. Amen. *Prayer of Confession: Lord, we confess . . . that sometimes, we walk away, instead of trusting; That we say, “we had hoped,” instead of “we still hope.” We confess that we do not always recognize You when You walk beside us. *Prayer of Confession, continued: Forgive us. Open our eyes. Set our hearts on fire again. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Moment of silence. Assurance of forgiveness: Christ is risen. Christ walks with us. We are forgiven. *Sing: “Sent Out in Jesus’ Name” TFWS 2184 *Benediction Pastor Jorge Go now . . . back into your roads, your homes, your lives. But do not go the same way you came. Because Christ has walked with you. Christ has spoken to you. Christ has set your heart on fire. And maybe . . . today . . .is “that same day.” Amen. *Song of Blessing: “Go Now in Peace” UMH 665 Postlude: “Victory in Jesus” arranged by E.M. Bartlett Rev. Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]  Fruitland United Methodist Church April 12, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “Panis Angelicus” by Cesar Franck Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. Welcome and Announcements Rev. Letha Essinger & Leslie Ward Minute for Mission Leslie Ward *Pastoral Prayer Rev. Letha E. Call to Worship: Psalm 16:5-11 (read responsively) UMH 748 *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: “Come, Christians, Join to Sing” UMH 158 Time with Young Christians Rev. Letha E. Please write prayer concerns and celebrations on yellow notepads, to be collected. Community Expressions Rev. Letha E. & Leslie W. Sing: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Thanksgiving and Celebration Prayers for Healing and Wholeness Our Community and World Let us pray. Lord’s Prayer: Our Father and Mother, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and glory forever. Amen. *Congregational Song “Holy, Holy” TFWS 2039 Invitation to Generosity Rev. Letha E. Offertory: “In Remembrance of Me” by Ragan Courtney and Buryl Red *Doxology: “Breathe on Me Breath of God” by E. Hatch and R. Jackson Gospel Reading: Acts 2:14a, 22-32 Letha E. Leader: The Word of God for the people of God People: Thanks be to God *Congregational Song “ I Love to Tell the Story” UMH 156 Sermon: “BUT THE BIBLE SAYS” Pastor Letha *Affirmation of Faith (1 Timothy) UMH 889 Leader: There is one God and there is one mediator, Christ Jesus, who came as a ransom for all, to whom we testify. People: This saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance: That Jesus Christ came into the world so save sinners, and was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory. Great indeed is the mystery of the gospel. Amen. *Congregational Song: “Lift High the Cross” UMH 159 *Benediction: Rev. Letha E. Postlude: “Dona Nobis Pacem” (Grant us Peace) Rev. Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]  Fruitland United Methodist Church April 5th, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “Panis Angelicus” by Cesar Franck *Processional Hymn: Alleluia TFW 2078 Words of Welcome Rev. Jorge R. & Jay Whitcomb Easter Proclamation Beloved, Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia! Our Savior is risen! Our Savior is risen indeed! Alleluia! Steadfast Love is risen! Steadfast Love is risen indeed! Alleluia! This is the day that the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it! Alleluia! Today is a day of celebration! Alleluia! Christ is risen indeed! AMEN. *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” (vs. 1-4) UMH #302 Scripture Reading: Acts 10:34-43 Pew Bible Pg. 1710 Jay W. Easter Prayer Rev. Jorge R. This is the good new of our Lord Jesus Christ for all people. Glory to God! Amen. We are Easter people: Raise us to new life, O God! Amen. Children’s Moment (Story Time) *Hymn: Up From the Grave He Arose UMH #322 Chase V. Scripture Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 Pew Bible pg. 1834 Jay W. Offering & Invitation to Generosity Rev. Jorge R. Offertory: “Breathe on Me Breath of God” by E. Hatch and R. Jackson *Doxology: Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95 Gospel Reading: John 20:1-18 Pew Bible pg. 1685 Jay W. *Congregational Song “ Christ Is Alive” UMH #318 Chase V. Sermon: “From Darkness to Light: Encounter and Transformation” Rev. Jorge R. John 20:1–18 It is still dark. Not only because the sun has not risen, but because the heart has not found light either. Mary Magdalene walks alone. Her steps are slow and heavy. Each step carries the weight of a lost love, of a broken hope, of a Friday that still hurts. She is not going looking for miracles. She is going to say goodbye one more time. And if we are honest, many of us know what that walk feels like. That inner dawn, when everything seems finished. When God is silent. When faith does not illuminate but simply keeps us company in the dark. Today, we walk with Mary. And perhaps, in her story, we discover our own. Mary arrives, and something is not right. The stone has been removed. But this does not bring hope. It brings confusion, fear, and desperation. She is not thinking about resurrection. She is thinking about loss again. “They have taken the Lord,” she says, almost out of breath. She runs. She searches. She asks. Because when life surprises us with something we do not understand, the first thing we do is not believe, but try to explain. How many times has this happened to us? Situations that do not make sense, doors that close, unexpected changes. And we ask, “Where is God in all of this?” The removed stone does not always feel like good news. Sometimes it feels like chaos. Peter and the other disciple run. They too are restless. They too are looking for answers. They arrive at the tomb and look. They see the linen cloths and the folded cloth. Everything is there, but nothing makes sense. The text tells us something profound: they had not yet understood the Scripture. They see, but they do not comprehend. They observe, but they do not fully believe. And this is so human. Many times we also see what God is doing, but we do not understand it in the moment. We see signs, but we do not know how to interpret them. We see changes, but we do not recognize God’s work in them. It takes more than physical eyes. It takes eyes of faith. And those often open slowly. Everyone leaves. But Mary stays. She weeps. And there is something sacred about that. Because sometimes, the place of the miracle is not where we run, but where we choose to remain, even when it hurts. She looks into the tomb and sees angels. But even that does not change her sorrow. Because when pain is deep, even the extraordinary is not enough. Then it happens. Someone is there. Jesus. But she does not recognize Him. She thinks He is the gardener. Because pain also clouds our vision. Until something simple happens, yet deeply transformative. Jesus says just one word: “Mary.” And in that moment, everything changes. The darkness breaks. The confusion fades. The grief is transformed. Because when Jesus calls your name, there is no doubt. There is no distance. There is no death that has the final word. Brothers and sisters, the story does not end with Mary. The story continues with us. Because the same risen Jesus is still calling names. Not loudly from the sky, but deep within the heart. In the middle of sorrow, in the middle of uncertainty, in the middle of unanswered questions, Jesus says your name. You are not just one more. You are not invisible. You are not forgotten. You are called. The question is not whether He speaks. The question is: are we listening? Do we recognize His voice in the middle of our tears? Are we willing to move from the tomb to testimony? Mary arrived weeping. She left proclaiming. She arrived in darkness. She left in light. She arrived looking for a body. She left proclaiming life. “I have seen the Lord.” That is faith. Not an idea. Not a theory. An encounter. And today, that same encounter is available. Because the resurrection is not only something that happened. It is something that is still happening. In lives that rise again. In hearts that believe again. In people who discover that the story does not end in the tomb. As Violeta Parra once said, “life itself is a song.” And today, Christ invites us to sing. To live. To proclaim. To say with Mary: “I have seen the Lord.” The Great Thanksgiving Rev. Letha E. & Pastor Jorge The Lord be with you. And also with you. Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise. And so, with your people on earth and all the company of heaven, we praise your name and join their unending hymn: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest! And so, in remembrance of your mighty acts in Jesus Christ, we offer ourselves in praise and thanksgiving as a holy and living sacrifice, in union with Christ’s offering for us, as we proclaim the mystery of faith: Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again. Pastor continues with the blessings of elements.... The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father and Mother, who art in heave, hallowed be thy name........ Service of Holy Communion *Hymn: One Bread, One Body UMH #620 *Benediction: May God’s abiding love and living hope give us new life. May God’s unmerited grace and mercy sustain us with hope. And may God’s restoring justice bring peace to all. For steadfast love is risen! Steadfast love is risen indeed! Alleluia! Amen. *Song of Blessing: “Alleluia” (Honduras) TFWS 2078 Postlude: “Dona Nobis Pacem” (Grant us Peace) Rev. Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]  Fruitland United Methodist Church March 8, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah,” by William Williams and John Hughes Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. Welcome and Announcements Pastor Jorge and Letha E. Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ. Today we gather as people who thirst for God. In a world full of noise and division, God invites us again to listen. *Call to Worship Letha E. Come, let us sing to the Lord. Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come into God’s presence with thanksgiving. Let us make a joyful noise with songs of praise. For the Lord is a great God. The maker of heaven and earth. Today, if you hear God’s voice May we not harden our hearts. Come, let us worship the Lord our God. Let us worship with open hearts. *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” UMH 400 Scripture Reading : Psalm 95 Letha E. Leader: The Word of God for the people of God. People: Thanks be to God. Time with Young Christians Jorge R. Please write prayer concerns and celebrations on yellow notepads, to be collected. Community Expressions Pastor Jorge & Letha E. Sing: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Thanksgiving and Celebration Prayers for Healing and Wholeness Our Community and World Let us pray. *Hymn: “Father, I Adore You” TFWS 2038 Scripture Reading: Exodus 17:1-7 Letha E. Leader: The Word of God for the people of God. People: Thanks be to God. Invitation to Generosity Pastor Jorge Offertory: “I love you Lord” by Laurie Klein *Doxology: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow . . .” UMH 95 All that we have is a gift from God. Let us offer our gifts with grateful hearts. Gospel Reading: John 4:5-42 Letha E. Leader: The Word of God for the people of God. People: Thanks be to God. *Hymn “You Who Are Thirsty” TFWS 2132 Sermon: “If Today You Hear His Voice” Rev. Jorge R. John 4:5–45 Psalm 95 There are places where people no longer speak to each other. Neighborhoods where invisible lines divide. Countries where borders become wounds. Families where an unfinished conversation becomes a heavy silence. Sometimes there are no gunshots. But there is distance. And distance can wound the human spirit just as deeply. In the Gospel of John, Jesus walks into one of those places. The text says: “He had to pass through Samaria.” It was not the shortest road. It was a decision. Because peace rarely begins by avoiding conflict. Peace begins when someone is willing to walk into difficult spaces with a different heart. For generations Jews and Samaritans avoided each other. Their history was long, bitter, religious, and political. And in that tense territory Jesus stops at a well. He is tired. He is thirsty. He sits down. Then a Samaritan woman arrives. And Jesus breaks the silence with a simple request: “Give me a drink.” It sounds like an ordinary sentence. But in that moment, it was revolutionary. A Jewish man speaking to a Samaritan woman. A rabbi crossing a social boundary. A religious teacher speaking to someone whose life had been marked by questions and wounds. Peace sometimes begins with something very small: “Give me a drink.” Not accusation. Notjudgment. Just a request that recognizes the dignity of the other. Psalm 95 gives a warning: “If today you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” The woman could have hardened her heart. She could have answered with sarcasm, with resentment, with the weight of centuries of conflict. But she doesn’t walk away. Instead, she keeps listening. She listens when Jesus speaks about living water. She listens when the conversation touches her personal story. She listens when Jesus speaks about worshiping God in spirit and in truth. Hardness of heart is a choice. Openness is also a choice. Wars begin when hearts stop listening. Peace begins when someone decides to listen again. The Samaritan woman was not perfect. Her story was complicated. Many people in her town probably judged her. But after meeting Jesus, the Gospel tells us something beautiful: “Then the woman left her water jar.” That jar represented her daily routine, her burden, her need. But she had encountered living water. And she runs back to the town and says: “Come, see a man who told me everything I have ever done.” She does not preach a theological lecture. She simply tells her story. And many believed because of her testimony. Peace is not only built by presidents or powerful leaders. Peace often begins with ordinary people whose hearts have been changed. Psalm 95 repeats the invitation: “If today you hear his voice...” Today. Not tomorrow. Not when everything is clear. Today. Jesus still walks through Samaria. He still crosses cultural boundaries. He still sits beside the wells of our lives. And he still speaks. The real question is not whether God speaks. The real question is whether we are willing to listen without hardening our hearts. The Samaritan woman rebuilt a bridge. She returned to her community carrying a message that invited people to come together. And today the church is called to do the same. In a world where fear grows easily and differences become excuses for conflict, Jesus shows another way: to sit, to listen, to speak truth with grace, and to announce hope. Working for peace does not mean ignoring injustice. It means confronting injustice without allowing hatred to rule our hearts. Perhaps today we are like the Samaritan woman: thirsty, full of questions, carrying our own stories. Or perhaps we are like the town: tired, skeptical, used to division. But the Psalm says: “If today you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” Jesus is still at the well. He is still asking for water. And he is still offering living water. May we not harden our hearts. May we leave behind the jar of prejudice. And may we, like that Samaritan woman, run to share the good news: “I have met the one who can transform my story.” And from that encounter, may we live and work for peace. Amen. Prayer of Confession: Merciful God, you are the source of living water, yet we often come to you with hardened hearts. We doubt when we should trust and forget the ways you have cared for us. Forgive us, Lord. Break the hardness within us and open our hearts to your grace. Let your living water renew our lives. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Closing Hymn: “Sent Out In Jesus Name” TFWS 2184 Benediction: Go into the world with open hearts. Listen for the voice of God. Receive the living water of Christ. And be people who build bridges of peace. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. *Song of Blessing: “Halle, Halle, Halleluja,” TFWS 2026 Postlude: “Rescue the Perishing” by Fanny Crosby Rev. Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]  Fruitland United Methodist Church March 1, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “To God be the Glory,” by William Doane Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. Welcome and Announcements Pastor Jorge and Liturgist Misson Moment by Mary Odom *Call to Worship Liturgist There are questions that come at night. And there is a God who meets us there. God calls us to places we cannot yet see. And promises to walk with us. The Spirit blows where it will. We open our hearts to be born again. All: We come to worship the God of promise, love, and new beginnings. *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: “Be Thou My Vision” UMH 451 Scripture Reading I: Psalm 121 (Read Responsively) UMH 844 Reader: The Word of God for the people of God. People: Thanks be to God. Time with Young Christians Leslie Ward Please write prayer concerns and celebrations on yellow notepads, to be collected. Community Expressions Pastor Jorge & Liturgist Sing: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Thanksgiving and Celebration Prayers for Healing and Wholeness Our Community and World Let us pray. *Hymn: “In His Time” TFWS 2203 Scripture Reading II: Genesis 12:1-4 (Read Responsively) UMH 844 Invitation to Generosity Pastor Jorge Offertory: “If you could Hie to Kolob” English tune arranged by Ralph Vaughn Williams *Doxology: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow . . .” UMH 95 Scripture Reading III: John 3:1-17 (Read Responsively) UMH 844 *Hymn: “Give Thanks” TFWS 2033 Sermon: “At the Doorway: Like Abraham, Like Nicodemus” Rev. Jorge Rodriguez There are questions that come at night. Not always because it is dark outside, but because something is dark inside. Nicodemus went out at night. We do not know exactly what he wanted to ask. We do not know what he had prepared in his mind. Maybe an argument. Maybe a trap. Maybe an elegant conversation between teachers. But Jesus did not allow him to set the agenda. Nicodemus begins with religious courtesy: “Rabbi, we know that you have come from God...”And before he finishes his introduction, Jesus interrupts him: “You must be born again.” It was not the question Nicodemus had asked. But it was the question his soul needed. In the Book of Genesis 12, God says to Abram: “Go... to the land that I will show you.” He does not show him the map. He does not hand him the itinerary. He does not give him GPS coordinates. Only a promise, and Abram went. That is all the text says: “So Abram went.” Without guarantees, without a signed contract. without knowing how the story would end. He went. In the Gospel of John 3, Nicodemus is also standing at a doorway. He does not have to leave his land. He has to leave his system. He wants to understand. He wants to control the Spirit. He wants the formula. “How can a man be born when he is old?” He wants the method. He wants the procedure. He wants to know what work must be done. But Jesus offers him a gift, not a task. And in the middle of confusion, in the middle of the night, in the middle of misunderstanding, the brightest promise appears: “For God so loved the world...” “Por eso Dios amo al mundo” That is not a formula. It is a gift. Si es un regalo. Here is the tension. We want to make our way into the kingdom. We want to earn our place; we want to do something that secures the result. Nicodemus wanted to do. Abram simply believed. Paul will later say that Abraham is the example. Not because he worked harder. Not because he obeyed perfectly. But because he trusted. Believing is not work. It is a direction. It is stepping out when God says “Go,” even if we do not know where. It is accepting being born again even if we do not understand how. Jesus could have said to Nicodemus: Now you are Abraham. You are standing at the doorway of a new life.” You do not have to climb back into the womb. You must release control; you do not have to produce the Spirit. You must let the Spirit blow, you do not have to earn God’s love, you must receive it. The same God who called Abram is the God who calls into existence things that do not exist. He calls hope where there is fear, He calls faith where there is doubt. He calls it “there is” where there is exclusion, He calls life where there seemed to be death. We are no longer defined by flesh. We are not defined by the law, we are not defined by performance, we are defined by the Spirit. We are family not by blood, but by promise. Each of us lives at that moment. A moment when God says: “Go.” A moment when Christ says: “Be born.” And we want to ask: “How?” “Where?” “With what guarantees?” But faith does not begin with answers. It begins with trust. Abraham walked. Nicodemus listened. And we are standing at the same doorway. We move forward in the journey of our lives guided by this promise: The promise of presence. The promise of acceptance. The promise of grace. We do not work to enter. We walk because we have already been loved. We are not born again by effort. We are reborn because God loved first. And when God says “Go” ... even if it is night... we go. Amen. *Affirmation of Faith (Responsive) Do you trust the God who calls you to go? We trust, even when we do not see the whole way. Do you believe in the Spirit who gives new birth? We believe, even when we do not understand how. Do you receive the love God has already given? We receive it with gratitude and faith. Invitation to the Table: Christ invites to this table not those who have it all figured out, not those who have earned their place, but those who trust the promise. Like Abraham, we come in faith. Like Nicodemus, we come with questions. Like children, we come ready to receive. The Great Thanksgiving (Brief Form): The Lord be with you. And also, with you. Lift up your hearts. We liftthem up to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise. Words of Institution: On the night in which he gave himself for us, Jesus took bread...broke it... and said, “This is my body...” He took the cup... “This is my blood of the new covenant...” Prayer of Consecration: Pour out your Holy Spirit on us gathered here and on these gifts of bread and cup. Make them be for us the body and blood of Christ, that we may be for the world people of promise, people of new birth, people who walk in trust. Amen Father’s Prayer: Sharing of the Elements (Music during distribution) “One Bread, One Body” UMH 620 Prayer After Communion : Gracious God, you have fed us not because we earned it but because you loved us first. Send us now into the world as people who walk in faith, who trust the promise, who receive the gift. Amen. *Closing Hymn: “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” Benediction: You stand at a doorway. God says, “Go.” You may not see the map. You may not understand the how. But you are already loved. You are already called. You are already made new. Go in trust. Go in grace. Go even if it is night. Amen Postlude: “Lead on O King Eternal,” by Ernest Shurtleff and Henry Stuart Rev. Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]  Fruitland United Methodist Church February 22, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “Finlandia” by Jean Sibelius Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. Welcome and Announcements Holly K. & Jorge R. *Call to Worship Holly K. Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven. Blessed are those whose sin the Lord does not count against them. When we kept silent, our bones wasted away. But when we confessed, God forgave us. In the wilderness, Christ was tempted yet remained faithful. In our weakness, God is our strength. Let us worship the Lord, our refuge and our Redeemer. *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: “You Are My Hiding Place” TFWS 2055 Scripture: Psalm 32 UMH 766 (Read responsively) Holly K. Time With Young Christians Pastor Jorge Please write prayer concerns and celebrations on yellow notes, to be collected. Community Expressions Jorge & Holly K. Sing: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Thanksgiving and Celebration Prayers for Healing and Wholeness Our Community and World Let Us Pray The Lord’s Prayer: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name . . .” *Hymn: Amazing Grace! How Sweet The Sound UMC #378 Scripture Reading: Romans 5:12-19 Holly K. Invitation to Generosity Rev Jorge R Offertory: “It’s Me, It’s Me O Lord” African-American spiritual *Doxology: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow . . .” UMH 95 Dedication Prayer: All we have is gift. All we give is gratitude. Gospel Reading: Matthew 4:1-11 Holly K. *Hymn: “Lord, I Lift Your Name On High” TFWS 2088 Sermon: “When the Soul Is Silent.... And When the Devil Whispers” Rev. Jorge R. Psalm 32 | Matthew 4:1–11 There is a kind of silence that makes the soul sick. The psalmist writes, “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away.” This is not the silence of peace. It is the silence of hidden guilt. The silence of pretending. The silence of carrying something too heavy for the heart. Many of us know that silence. We smile on the outside, but inside something aches. Psalm 32 reminds us that freedom begins with honesty. When David confessed, he discovered grace: “You forgave the guilt of my sin.” Confession is not humiliation. It is liberation. Matthew 4 takes us into another kind of silence — the wilderness. Jesus is alone. Hungry. Weak. And in that quiet place, a voice whispers: “If you are the Son of God...” Temptation always questions identity. It whispers doubt before it offers shortcuts. Turn stones into bread. Prove yourself. Take power the easy way. Bread. Prestige. Power. Jesus refuses to negotiate who He is. He answers with trust in God’s Word. In the wilderness, Jesus chooses faithfulness. Here is the good news for us: Most of us live somewhere between Psalm 32 and Matthew 4. Sometimes we resist. Sometimes we fall. But grace meets us in both places. When we are tempted, God strengthens us. When we fail, God forgives us. Temptation says, “Hide.” The Spirit says, “Return.” And the blessing is not for the perfect. It is for the forgiven. Today we are invited to ask: Where am I staying silent? Which voice am I listening to? The silence of guilt drains the soul. Confession restores it. The whisper of temptation divides the heart. The Word of God anchors it. We are not defined by our temptation. We are not defined by our failure. We are defined by grace. Rejoice in the Lord. There is forgiveness. There is strength. There is hope. Amen. *Prayer of Confession: Merciful God, When we remain silent about our sin, our hearts grow heavy. Forgive us when we hide. Forgive us when we justify. Forgive us when we doubt who we are in You. In moments of temptation, we do not always stand firm. Restore us through Your mercy. Remind us that we are Your children. Free us through Your grace. (Silent Prayer) Words of Assurance Pastor Jorge R. Hear the good news: Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven. In Jesus Christ, We are forgiven, restored, and strengthened. Thanks be to God! Amen. Closing Hymn: “Grace Alone” TFWS 2162 Benediction: Go into the wilderness knowing you are not alone. When temptation whispers, remember who you are. When guilt weighs heavy, remember there is grace. May the God who forgives, the Christ who strengthens, and the Spirit who sustains go with you this week. Amen. Postlude: Lord, Dismiss us with Thy Blessing by John Fawcett Pastor Jorge Rodriguez [email protected]  Fruitland United Methodist Church February 15, 2026 *(Please stand if you are comfortably able.) Prelude: “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by J.S. Bach Welcoming the Light of Christ and inviting the neighborhood to worship. Welcome and Announcements Leona W. & Jorge R. *Call to Worship Leona Whitcomb The Lord calls us from the heights of the mountain. We come to listen to the voice of God. God declares, “You are my beloved Son.” We recognize Christ as Lord of our lives. God says, “Listen to him.” We open our ears, our hearts, and our will. Let us come to worship the God who reveals divine glory And sends us into the world in love. Amen *Sharing the Peace of Christ. *Opening Hymn: “Shine, Jesus, Shine” TFWS 2173 Scripture: Psalm 2 Leona W. Time With Young Christians Pastor Jorge Please write prayer concerns and celebrations on yellow notes, to be collected. Community Expressions Jorge & Leona W. Sing: “Holy, Holy, Holy” TFWS 2007 Thanksgiving and Celebration Prayers for Healing and Wholeness Our Community and World Let Us Pray The Lord’s Prayer: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name . . .” Scripture Reading: Exodus 24:12-18 Hymn: How Great Is Our God TFWS #3003 Invitation to Generosity Rev Jorge R Offertory: “Open the eyes of my heart” by Paul Baloche *Doxology: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow . . .” UMH 95 Gospel Reading: Matthew 17: 1-9 Leona W. *Hymn: “Here I Am, Lord” UMH 593 Sermon: “Listen to Him: When God Speaks from the Mountain” Rev. Jorge R. Mathew 17 1-9 There are moments in life when we wish time could stand still— moments so clear, so bright, so full of meaning that we think, “I wish this could last forever.” Here in Fruitland, we know those moments well. Sometimes they come quietly: a sunrise over the fields, a conversation around the church kitchen table, a prayer whispered during a long workday, or a Sunday morning when the hymns sound stronger and hope feels closer. Peter knows that feeling. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain. He doesn’t explain much. Jesus often walks first and explains later. On that mountain something happens that none of them expect. Jesus changes. His face shines. His clothes become dazzling white. Moses and Elijah appear—the Law and the Prophets, the whole story of God’s people standing with Jesus. Peter, being Peter, doesn’t know what to say, but he says something: “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will make three shelters.” It’s an honest and human response. It sounds like us sometimes: “This feels safe. This is familiar. Let’s stay right here.” In a community like Fruitland, that makes sense. We value stability, relationships, tradition, and taking care of one another. But then the most important moment comes. A cloud covers them, and a voice speaks—not Peter’s, not Moses’, not Elijah’s, but God’s: “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased. Listen to him.” Psalm 2 had said it long before: “You are my Son; today I have begotten you.” God is not offering advice; God is revealing identity. Jesus is not just a teacher, not just a prophet, not just a powerful spiritual experience. He is God’s beloved Son. And God does not say, “Admire him,” or “Build something permanent here,” or “Stay on the mountain.” God says something far more demanding: “Listen to him.” Listening is harder than watching. Watching keeps us comfortable; listening calls us to respond. The story does not end on the mountain. It ends on the way down. They do not stay. They return to the crowds, the questions, and the needs of the world. Church is a safe place—but it is also a sending place. The voice from the cloud is still clear: “Listen to him.” May God give us ears to listen, hearts ready to obey, and feet willing to walk wherever Jesus leads. Amen. Prayer of Confession: God of light and glory, we confess that many times we prefer to speak rather than listen, to build shelters rather than follow Jesus, and to remain comfortable on the mountain instead of descending into the valley of human pain. Forgive us when we ignore your voice and fail to listen to your Son. Turn us back to you, so that we may be transformed and sent in love. Amen. Words of Assurance...... Pastor Jorge R. Hear the good news: The voice that spoke from the cloud is still speaking today with grace. In Christ we are forgiven, restored, and called to walk in God’s light. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. People: Thanks be to God! Amen. Closing Hymn: “ Sent Out In Jesus’ Name” TFWS 2184 Pastoral Benediction: Brothers and sisters, you have seen the glory of Christ, you have heard the voice of God. Now come down from the mountain to listen to Jesus in the cries of the world and to follow him faithfully. Go in peace. Amen. Song of Blessing: We Are Marching in The Light Of God Postlude: O How He Loves You And Me by Kurt Kaiser Pastor Jorge Rodriguez [email protected] |