wfn.org | July Fourth morning worship service

[PCUSA.NEWS@ecunet.org]

05-July-1996 
 
GA96104 
 
                    July Fourth morning worship service 
 
ALBUQUERQUE - In the morning worship service held on the 4th of July, 
preacher Margy Wentz spoke of Jesus "going to Jerusalem for the fireworks." 
 
    On the day commemorating American Independence,  Wentz read from John 
7, an account of the festival of booths, which reminded the Jewish people 
of their national roots.  As Jesus participated in this annual event by 
teaching in the temple, Wentz said he "redefined freedom and identity." 
 
    Wentz emphasized the unconditional acceptance Jesus offered, "let 
anyone who is thirsty come unto me"  (John 7:38).  In spite of this, the 
people were divided because of him, noted Wentz.  "Some thought his 
teaching liberating, others did not."  Wentz took her sermon title from the 
"police report" on Jesus' address that day, "never has anyone spoken like 
this." 
 
    Her sermon kept the rapt attention of worshipers who occupied most of 
the seats of Kiva Auditorium in the Albuquerque Convention Center.  Before 
her sermon, the people sang some rousing hymns expressing love of country. 
The music was  led by David Poole, of the LaMesa Presbyterian Church of 
Albuquerque.  Manuel Rodriguez served as liturgist, reading selections in 
Spanish as well as English. 
 
    A special part the service was provided by the Albuquerque Girl's 
Choir, a group of girls nine to 13 years of age,  directed by their 
founder, Linda Rice.  The girls, dressed in shining blouses of red, white, 
and blue over black skirts, blended their voices to sing "America, the 
Beautiful."  The congregation joined them in the anthem's third verse.  The 
choir filed out of the auditorium to the instrumental music of the fourth 
verse and to the appreciative applause of all the people gathered. 
    In this hot and dry land, thirsty people found living water as they 
worshiped on the 4th of July during the 208th General Assembly of the 
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). 
 
Dee Wade 

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