Time after Epiphany Theme
written by Matt Reece, Director of Music Ministries
Claimed through water and light, we proclaim God’s love to all
The season of Epiphany draws the church into the bright mystery of God revealed in Jesus Christ. It is a season shaped by light: light that guides the magi, light that shines at Jesus’ baptism, and light that continues to break into our world through Christ’s life and ministry. In worship, we return to water and light as signs of God’s self-giving love. At the font, we remember that we have been claimed and named as God’s beloved, not by our own doing, but by grace alone.
Baptism is more than a memory from the past: it is a present and enduring promise. Through water and the Word, God joins us to Christ’s death and resurrection and calls us into a life made new. In baptism, God’s presence is promised for every season of life—for joy and struggle, for clarity and uncertainty. Epiphany invites us to trust that the same God who met Jesus in the waters of the Jordan continues to meet us here, renewing us again and again in mercy and hope.
Claimed through water and illumined by Christ’s light, we are sent into the world to proclaim God’s love to all. This proclamation takes shape in lives marked by generosity, compassion, and faithfulness. As people of the light, we bear witness to God’s promise of new life, sharing hope where it is needed and reflecting Christ’s love in our daily callings. In this season of Epiphany, we rejoice that God’s light is not only revealed to us, but shines through us for the sake of the world.
Ardor (Worship Musicians)
The musicians rehearse from 9:00 to 9:45 am every Sunday morning. You are invited to join us in leading music during the worship service. The musicians for worship can find the service orders and music in the crate on the back pew in the sanctuary for each week. Contact the director of music ministries or the church office if you plan to help lead worship.
Worship Information
Worship at All Saints might look and feel a little different. We carefully and prayerfully select a worship theme each season, and we choose songs and liturgical elements that help communicate that theme and bring us closer to God and to one another.
All Saints Lutheran Church is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and participates in the Synod Authorized Ministry (SAM) program offered by the Southeastern Iowa Synod. Bishop Amy Current has authorized Wanda Barber, Matthew Reece, and Julie Schoville to be Synod Authorized Ministers able to preside over all worship services and offer pastoral care. The Synod provides training and instruction throughout the year and fully supports this program.
If you would like the spoken words for the worship services, contact the office (office@allsaintsdavenport.org) to request the information or use this link:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YvQ6n5EEq_DAyNXgNDSu8RCxng8mIeFy/view?usp=sharing
This link will open a document that has the entire season of Epiphany (01.11.2026 – 02.15.2026)
Introduction
Jesus begins his public ministry by calling fishers to leave their nets and follow him. In Jesus the kingdom of God has come near. We who have walked in darkness have seen a great light. We see this light most profoundly in the cross—as God suffers with us and all who are oppressed by sickness, sin, or evil. Light dawns for us as we gather around the word, the font, and the holy table. We are then sent to share the good news that others may be “caught” in the net of God’s grace and mercy.
Prayer of the Day
Lord God, your lovingkindness always goes before us and follows after us. Summon us into your light, and direct our steps in the ways of goodness that come through the cross of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Scripture
Isaiah 9:1-4 Light shines for those in darkness
The northern tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali experienced the gloom of defeat by Assyrian military forces, but they are assured that their condition will be reversed when God makes a light-filled appearance. The joy they will experience will resemble celebrations of great harvests, because God will deliver them from everything that diminishes or oppresses them.
Psalm 27:1, 4-9 The Lord is my light and my salvation. (Ps. 27:1)
1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Appeal for unity in the gospel
Paul calls on the Corinthians to end their dissensions and share the unified outlook of the gospel. Discord arises when we forget that we belong not to human leaders or institutions but to Christ. Indeed, the unifying word of the cross of Christ is the center of the gospel and the power of God’s salvation.
Matthew 4:12-23 Revelation of Christ as a prophet
Jesus begins his public ministry shortly after John the Baptist is imprisoned by Herod. He proclaims the nearness of God’s reign and calls four fishermen to be his first disciples.
Fellowship Time
After worship there is time for refreshments and fellowship in the gathering space.