December 1, 2024
First Sunday of Advent and Celebration of Holy Communion
Reverend Debra McGuire
Music Director - Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Liturgist - Craig Bray
Advent Bells
Opening Prayer 1, 2
God of darkness, in these days marked by cold air and growing night, gather us in your secret place of waiting. Remind us that the dark is not empty. Show us where new life is being formed. Reveal to us the fertile grounds of our waiting, that we might bear witness to your incarnation among us, both now and in the days to come. Lord Jesus Christ, we await your coming. We wait filled with hope, knowing your light will shine in the darkness. We wait anticipating your peace, believing that one day it will fill our world. We wait embracing your love. May we reach out to share it with our neighbors. We wait with joy, bubbling us in expectation of your birth. Lord we wait. Come soon and fill us with your life. Amen.
Welcome and Announcements
Hymn 86 The People Who Walked in Darkness
Advent Candle Lighting: HOPE 3
ONE: As we gather today, we remember the promised gifts of the Messiah. In the lighting of one candle, we set our gaze upon beacons that sustain us through sleepless nights and restless days. We bear this light together.
We call this candle Hope.
Advent Prayer
ONE: You, O God, are our hope, the quiet strength in our deepest longing. With the Holy Spirit as our guide, we join the prophet Jeremiah in testifying to your timeless, unending faithfulness in the shadowiest of days.
ALL: We stand in awe of a light that endures, a steady glow through the dimmest days. We draw near to the God who waits with grace, filling us with hope in every season. With hearts ignited, we work and wait for liberative justice, trusting that it shines beyond even the deepest shadows. Though our flames may falter, we press on, for God-is-with-us – Emmanuel is near. Amen.
Response Hymn 90
Wait for the Lord, whose day is near;
Wait for the Lord, be strong, take heart.
Call To Worship
ONE: The days are coming; your salvation is nearing.
ALL: Teach us your paths as we wait on your coming promise.
ONE: The heavens are speaking; your kingdom is arriving.
ALL: Strengthen our hearts as we wait on your coming promise.
ONE: The world is turning; new life is appearing.
ALL: Keep us alert as we wait on your coming promise.
ONE: We worship you with waiting hearts this day.
ALL: Fill us with hope in this season. Let us worship God together!
Hymn 82 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus
Affirmation of Faith 4
We believe in God, creator and lover of the earth, origin and destiny of us all. We believe in Jesus the Christ - God coming to us in the fragile promise of a baby yet unborn - who emerges as the herald of hope, God's laughter in the face of despair. Plunged into death and hell, he broke free the captives, and is leading the way to the land of promise where justice and peace will flourish. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who implants the seed of truth, brings us to birth as the body of Christ, and empowers us to confront and transform all that is corrupt, degrading and deceitful. We believe in the coming reign of God. Announced by the Baptist, it has drawn near to us in Jesus, and will be consummated in the glorious marriage of earth and heaven, when all who have passed through the world's deep sorrow will be raised from the waters, robed in righteousness, and gathered into the joyous fulfilment of God's desire. For the coming of that day on this day, we work and pray: Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Response Hymn 145
This, this is Christ the King,
whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud,
the babe, the son of Mary.
Sharing the Peace of Christ
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response Hymn 155
Raise a song of gladness, peoples of the earth.
Christ has come, bringing peace, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Scripture: Jeremiah 33:14-16
ONE: This is the word of the Lord.
RESPONSE: Thanks be to God.
Hymn 97 Watchman, Tell Us of the Night
Sermon Reverend Debra McGuire
Hymn 105 People, Look East
Invitation to the Offering 5
The willingness to give is a sign of life. The fruit tree gives of its fruit, and we know it is alive. The ability to give comes and goes. Truly God is good to us in ways beyond our understanding. Offerings consist of many things, some of which are financial. As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with us. You are invited to come and put your offerings and any prayer requests in this basket on the table now, or later this morning, and you are welcome to continue mailing your offerings to the church. Let us receive this morning's offering.
Hymn 129 Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming
Prayer of Dedication
Almighty God, giver of every good and perfect gift, teach us to give to you all that we have and all that we are, that we may praise you not with our words only, but with our whole lives. We ask you to bless all of the gifts that we give, and bless what we keep, and fill us with joy as we discover ways to use our resources for your work in our world. Amen.
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper
Preparation of the Table
Invitation and Great Prayer of Thanksgiving 6
Rejoicing in the Lord always, we give thanks for the Word made flesh. With grateful hearts let us offer our whole selves to God.
Welcome to the delight that is this table. Our Lord's table. Welcome to the table where the love of God meets Humanity. We welcome everyone to this table, no matter your church background, your knowledge of biblical ideas, no matter your sexual orientation or gender truth, no matter your mood. Wherever and whoever you are you are welcome here, you belong, you are worthy.
This is for you, but it may change you from one who is anxiously concerned about their own redemption into one who knows that Christ's body is the earth and all who walk upon it, are one in Him. Into knowing that we are not redeemed by our being good but by our being connected. Into knowing that daring to eat at the table of Jesus Christ has unimaginable consequences.
So come, come to be made whole, and to participate in the work of making us one with God and each other.
ONE: The Lord be with you
ALL: And also with you
ONE: Lift up your hearts
ALL: We lift them up to the Lord
ONE: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God
ALL: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
ONE: Blessed are you, O Lord our God: We give thanks, O Lord, that the days are surely coming when all the world will see the fulfillment of your promise of salvation. You alone are our righteousness, our only hope for justice and peace. Therefore we praise you, joining the song of the universal church and the heavenly choir:
ALL: Holy Lord, God of endless love, heaven and earth are surely full of your glory. The angels sang of it - we have been lavished with it. Blessed is he who was born that we might have life. Glory to God and on earth peace to all people.
ONE: Holy God, as the travelers with their treasures were overwhelmed with joy on finding Jesus, so we also are overwhelmed on finding out the depth of his love for us. For Jesus showed just how beloved we are to him, by loving us and giving himself for us.
Send the power of your Holy Spirit upon these gifts of bread and wine, O God, that we may experience the presence of the Word-made-flesh - Jesus Christ. Breathe your Spirit in us that we may be one body with him - living out his ministry in the world today and every day. This we pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
Words of Institution
Sharing of the Cup and Bread
Prayer of Thanksgiving 7
Generous God, You are the source of all life, creating and sustaining every living thing. You are the source of all food, material and spiritual, nourishing us in both body and soul. We rejoice that you satisfy our needs. By your presence in this meal you have fed us and strengthened us, as a mother nourishes her baby. In this waiting season fill us with hopeful expectation that we may see the signs of your kingdom all around us and rejoice in your coming salvation and glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People 8
ONE: Lord in your Mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers.
ONE: Lord, we have pulled out the Advent wreath, the Christmas tree, the poinsettias. We dusted off the hymns, unsung for a year, and unearthed the words of your prophets. Yet, in your eyes, these efforts are for nothing without the regular, persistent, deep pursuit of justice for all people. Our efforts are hollow without consistent work toward peace, reconciliation, and participation in your mission for creation.
In our hearts, we do long to be your people, to carry out your mission, to be lights in the darkness—proof that no darkness can overcome your truth. Awaken us to action. Stir us to courage. Rouse us to prepare a way in the wilderness for your coming, clearing the brush of oppression, racism, injustice, and hopelessness - so that all may see your light and perceive your coming. Amen.
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Hymn 121 O Little Town of Bethlehem
Pastoral Blessing
Closing Charge
Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!
Hymn 119 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
1 PCUSA resources for Advent
2 Christine Sine (2012) GodSpace
3 “Wait for the Lord” Advent Candle Lighting, adapted from The Presbyterian Outlook, Nov. 2024
5 Thom Schuman Lectionary Liturgies
6 Rev. Bob Gibson for the London Conference of the United Church of Canada
7 adapted from PCUSA resources
December 8, 2024
Second Sunday of Advent
Reverend Debra McGuire
Music Director - Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Liturgist - Tamra Hollenbeck
Advent Bells
Opening Prayer
God of the wilderness, you have always sent your prophets to lead us to repentance, to make a way for your salvation to arrive. Help us this day to receive your presence, removing every hindrance and obstacle to your Spirit's work. Make your salvation known from every segment of our lives to every corner of this earth. Amen
Welcome and Announcements
Introit Even So Come Chris Tomlin, Jason Ingram, and Jess Cates
Advent Candle Lighting: PEACE
ONE: As we gather today, we remember the promised gifts of the Messiah. In the lighting of two candles, we set our gaze upon beacons that sustain us through sleepless nights and restless days. We bear this light together.
We call this candle Peace.
Advent Prayer 1
ONE: Eternal source, amid life's turmoil, we find our way by turning to you. When courage fades and trust feels fragile, your promises remain steady and true. You are the unfailing light on our path. You, O God, are our hope and our peace, the quiet strength in our deepest longing. Amen.
ALL: With the Holy Spirit as our guide, we join John the Baptist's father, Zechariah, in testifying to God's timeless, unending faithfulness in the shadowiest of days. “And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.” Because of the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. Amen.
Response Hymn 90
Wait for the Lord, whose day is near;
Wait for the Lord, be strong, take heart.
Call To Worship
ONE: A voice cries out; a prophet speaks:
ALL: In the wilderness, prepare the way.
ONE: The valleys are filled; the mountains are made low.
ALL: In the wilderness, prepare the way.
ONE: The winding roads are made level, the rough ways made smooth.
ALL: In the wilderness, prepare the way.
ONE: God's salvation has come and even now it is on its way.
ALL: Blessed is the Lord God, who has come to save us! Hallelujah! Let us worship God together!
Hymn 87 Comfort, Comfort Now My People
Affirmation of Faith 2
We believe in God, creator and lover of the earth, origin and destiny of us all. We believe in Jesus the Christ - God coming to us in the fragile promise of a baby yet unborn - who emerges as the herald of hope, God's laughter in the face of despair. Plunged into death and hell, he broke free the captives, and is leading the way to the land of promise where justice and peace will flourish. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who implants the seed of truth, brings us to birth as the body of Christ, and empowers us to confront and transform all that is corrupt, degrading and deceitful. We believe in the coming reign of God. Announced by the Baptist, it has drawn near to us in Jesus, and will be consummated in the glorious marriage of earth and heaven, when all who have passed through the world's deep sorrow will be raised from the waters, robed in righteousness, and gathered into the joyous fulfilment of God's desire. For the coming of that day on this day, we work and pray: Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Response Hymn 145
This, this is Christ the King,
whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud,
the babe, the son of Mary.
Sharing the Peace of Christ
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response Hymn 155
Raise a song of gladness, peoples of the earth.
Christ has come, bringing peace, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Scripture: Luke 3:1-6
ONE: This is the word of the Lord.
RESPONSE: Thanks be to God.
Anthem Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord Carol Troutman Wiggin
Sermon Reverend Debra McGuire
Hymn 96 On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry
Invitation to the Offering 3
The willingness to give is a sign of life. The fruit tree gives of its fruit, and we know it is alive. The ability to give comes and goes. Truly God is good to us in ways beyond our understanding. Offerings consist of many things, some of which are financial. As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with us.
Offertory A Waiting Prayer Susan & Lee Dengler
Prayer of Dedication
Almighty God, giver of every good and perfect gift, teach us to give to you all that we have and all that we are, that we may praise you not with our words only, but with our whole lives. We ask you to bless all of the gifts that we give, and bless what we keep, and fill us with joy as we discover ways to use our resources for your work in our world. Amen.
Prayers of the People
ONE: Lord in your Mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers.
ONE: Lord, we have pulled out the Advent wreath, the Christmas tree, the poinsettias. We dusted off the hymns, unsung for a year, and unearthed the words of your prophets. Yet, in your eyes, these efforts are for nothing without the regular, persistent, deep pursuit of justice for all people. Our efforts are hollow without consistent work toward peace, reconciliation, and participation in your mission for creation.
In our hearts, we do long to be your people, to carry out your mission, to be lights in the darkness—proof that no darkness can overcome your truth. Awaken us to action. Stir us to courage. Rouse us to prepare a way in the wilderness for your coming, clearing the brush of oppression, racism, injustice, and hopelessness - so that all may see your light and perceive your coming. Amen.
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Hymn 105 People, Look East
Pastoral Blessing
Closing Charge
Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!
Postlude Peace Be Still Mia Fieldes, Andrew Holt, and Hope Dorst
1 “Wait for the Lord” Advent Candle Lighting, adapted from The Presbyterian Outlook, Nov. 2024
3 Thom Schuman Lectionary Liturgies
December 15, 2024
Third Sunday of Advent
Reverend Debra McGuire
Music Director - Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Liturgist - Craig Bray
Advent Bells
Opening Prayer
God of good news, God of joy, your Spirit is always at work in our midst. Your nearness brings life and salvation. Help us join in the songs of our ancestors who have declared your mighty works through the generations. Let our praise arise with theirs as we rest in the joy of your arriving presence. Amen.
Welcome and Announcements
Introit Even So Come Chris Tomlin, Jason Ingram, and Jess Cates
Advent Candle Lighting: JOY
ONE: As we gather today, we remember the promised gifts of the Messiah. In the lighting of three candles, we set our gaze upon beacons that sustain us through sleepless nights and restless days. We bear this light together.
We call this candle Joy.
Advent Prayer 1
ONE: Giver of Life, we inhabit a world that often seeks to steal our joy. Rejoicing is a courageous embodiment, a tender defiance. Reveling in the goodness of God stands against the current: a quiet rebellion against forces that thrive on fear. To find beauty amid complexity is a bold act, and gratitude is a balm that brings healing to our souls. You, O God, are our hope, our peace and our joy, the quiet strength in our deepest longing. Amen.
ALL: With the Holy Spirit as our guide, we join the apostle Paul in testifying to your timeless, unending faithfulness in the shadowiest of days. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:4-7). We delight in the joy found in your presence, a fullness of joy that the world cannot give nor take away. This joy is a blessed assurance sealed with your love by the foretold birth of your son. This is a joy once discovered, can be made known to all and shared. Nothing else can fill the spaces of waiting; nothing else can light the path. Amen.
Response Hymn 90
Wait for the Lord, whose day is near;
Wait for the Lord, be strong, take heart.
Call To Worship
ONE: God, you are our salvation and trust.
ALL: Rejoice in the Lord, for our God is near.
ONE: You redeem your people; you restore our fortunes.
ALL: Rejoice in the Lord, for our God is near.
ONE: You have become for us our strength and salvation.
ALL: Rejoice in the Lord, for our God is near.
ONE: Let us sing to the Lord, who has done glorious things.
ALL: Let us offer joy, thanks, and praise this day. Hallelujah! Let us worship God together.
Hymn 805 Come Sing to God
Affirmation of Faith 2
We believe in God, creator and lover of the earth, origin and destiny of us all. We believe in Jesus the Christ - God coming to us in the fragile promise of a baby yet unborn - who emerges as the herald of hope, God's laughter in the face of despair. Plunged into death and hell, he broke free the captives, and is leading the way to the land of promise where justice and peace will flourish. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who implants the seed of truth, brings us to birth as the body of Christ, and empowers us to confront and transform all that is corrupt, degrading and deceitful. We believe in the coming reign of God. Announced by the Baptist, it has drawn near to us in Jesus, and will be consummated in the glorious marriage of earth and heaven, when all who have passed through the world's deep sorrow will be raised from the waters, robed in righteousness, and gathered into the joyous fulfilment of God's desire. For the coming of that day on this day, we work and pray: Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Response Hymn 145
This, this is Christ the King,
whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud,
the babe, the son of Mary.
Sharing the Peace of Christ
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response Hymn 155
Raise a song of gladness, peoples of the earth.
Christ has come, bringing peace, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Scripture: Isaiah 12:2-6. Luke 3:7-18
ONE: This is the word of the Lord.
RESPONSE: Thanks be to God.
Anthem Joy to the World (Joyful, Joyful) Phil Wickham
Sermon Reverend Debra McGuire
Hymn 360 Christ is Coming!
Invitation to the Offering 3
The willingness to give is a sign of life. The fruit tree gives of its fruit, and we know it is alive. The ability to give comes and goes. Truly God is good to us in ways beyond our understanding. Offerings consist of many things, some of which are financial. As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with us.
Offertory The Only Son from Heaven Elizabeth Kreuziger/15th c. Melody, arr. J.S. Bach
Prayer of Dedication
Lord, we bring before you the common things of our common life: our money, our songs, our labors to be your faithful congregation, our needs and dreams, our joys and sorrows, our selves. We celebrate all this with you, seeking the touch of your Spirit so that we will share more deeply what we are and have with all people in our city and our world. In faith and gratitude, we offer common things made miracles by your grace. Bless what we give and bless what we keep that all may be used for your glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People
ONE: Lord in your Mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers.
ONE: Lord, we have pulled out the Advent wreath, the Christmas tree, the poinsettias. We dusted off the hymns, unsung for a year, and unearthed the words of your prophets. Yet, in your eyes, these efforts are for nothing without the regular, persistent, deep pursuit of justice for all people. Our efforts are hollow without consistent work toward peace, reconciliation, and participation in your mission for creation.
In our hearts, we do long to be your people, to carry out your mission, to be lights in the darkness—proof that no darkness can overcome your truth. Awaken us to action. Stir us to courage. Rouse us to prepare a way in the wilderness for your coming, clearing the brush of oppression, racism, injustice, and hopelessness - so that all may see your light and perceive your coming. Amen.
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Hymn 147 The First Nowell
Pastoral Blessing
Closing Charge
Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!
Postlude An Advent Reflection Joseph M. Martin
1 “Wait for the Lord” Advent Candle Lighting, adapted from The Presbyterian Outlook, Nov. 2024
3 Thom Schuman Lectionary Liturgies
Due to circumstances beyond our control and the vagaries of Facebook, we are unable to post today's worship video.
December 22, 2024
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Reverend Debra McGuire
Music Director - Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Liturgist - Bonnie Morgan
Advent Bells
Opening Prayer 1
Faithful God, you chose Mary, full of grace, to be the mother of our Sovereign and Savior, Jesus Christ. Now fill us with your grace, that with her, we may understand your ways, rejoice in your salvation, and embrace your will; through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Welcome and Announcements
Introit What Are We Waiting For? Joanna Mills
Advent Candle Lighting: LOVE
ONE: As we gather today, we remember the promised gifts of the Messiah. In the lighting of four candles, we set our gaze upon beacons that sustain us through sleepless nights and restless days. We bear this light together.
We call this candle Love.
Advent Prayer 2
ONE: Beloved Sustainer, in a world where care is mocked by the powerful, we stand as those who know the life-giving force of your love — for you, for our neighbors, for ourselves. You call us to be fierce in love, bold in tenderness. You enable us to be protectors of compassion, guardians of mercy in a world in need. Amen.
ALL: With the Holy Spirit as our guide, we join Mary in testifying to your timeless, unending faithfulness in the shadowiest of days. And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant. Surely from now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name; indeed, his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. He has come to the aid his child Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever” (Luke 1:39-55). Amen.
Response Hymn 90
Wait for the Lord, whose day is near;
Wait for the Lord, be strong, take heart.
Call To Worship 3
ONE: Our souls magnify the Lord, and our spirits rejoice in God our Savior.
ALL: God has looked with favor on the lowliness of God's servant.
ONE: God's mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.
ALL: God has shown strength with God's arm.
ONE: God has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
ALL: God has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly;
ONE: God has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.
ALL: Come, for God is doing a new thing! Come, let us worship God!
Hymn 110 Love Has Come
Affirmation of Faith 2
We believe in God, creator and lover of the earth, origin and destiny of us all. We believe in Jesus the Christ - God coming to us in the fragile promise of a baby yet unborn - who emerges as the herald of hope, God's laughter in the face of despair. Plunged into death and hell, he broke free the captives, and is leading the way to the land of promise where justice and peace will flourish. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who implants the seed of truth, brings us to birth as the body of Christ, and empowers us to confront and transform all that is corrupt, degrading and deceitful. We believe in the coming reign of God. Announced by the Baptist, it has drawn near to us in Jesus, and will be consummated in the glorious marriage of earth and heaven, when all who have passed through the world's deep sorrow will be raised from the waters, robed in righteousness, and gathered into the joyous fulfilment of God's desire. For the coming of that day on this day, we work and pray: Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Response Hymn 145
This, this is Christ the King,
whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud,
the babe, the son of Mary.
Sharing the Peace of Christ
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response Hymn 155
Raise a song of gladness, peoples of the earth.
Christ has come, bringing peace, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Scripture: Micah 5:2-5a, Luke 1:39-55
ONE: This is the word of the Lord.
RESPONSE: Thanks be to God.
Anthem Testify to Love Paul Field, Henk Pool, Ralph Van Manen, and Robert Riekerk
Sermon Reverend Debra McGuire
Hymn 99 My Soul Gives Glory to My God
Invitation to the Offering
The willingness to give is a sign of life. The fruit tree gives of its fruit, and we know it is alive. The ability to give comes and goes. Truly God is good to us in ways beyond our understanding. Offerings consist of many things, some of which are financial. As we offer our gifts and lives in this moment, may we become imitators of God, who holds nothing back from us, but is generous and gracious with us.
Offertory Breath Of Heaven (Mary's Song) Chris Eaton and Amy Grant
Prayer of Dedication
Lord, we bring before you the common things of our common life: our money, our songs, our labors to be your faithful congregation, our needs and dreams, our joys and sorrows, our selves. We celebrate all this with you, seeking the touch of your Spirit so that we will share more deeply what we are and have with all people in our city and our world. In faith and gratitude, we offer common things made miracles by your grace. Bless what we give and bless what we keep that all may be used for your glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People
ONE: Lord in your Mercy,
ALL: Hear our prayers.
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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Hymn 146 Gentle Mary Laid Her Child
Pastoral Blessing
Closing Charge
Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!
Postlude Soon and Very Soon Andraé Crouch, Arr. Jack Schrader
2 “Wait for the Lord” Advent Candle Lighting, adapted from The Presbyterian Outlook, Nov. 2024
3 Rev. Stephen M. Fearing (Permission is given for use in congregational worship)
December 29, 2024
A Service of Lesson and Carols
Music Director - Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Liturgist: Tamra Hollenbeck
Christmas Bells
Opening Prayer 1
Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Risen Christ, be with us today and always. Be our Light, our Guide, and our Comforter. Be our Strength, our Courage, and our Sanctifier. As we approach this New Year, may this be a time of deep spiritual growth for us, a time for welcoming your graces and gifts, a time for forgiving freely and unconditionally, a time for growing in virtue and goodness. Come, Holy Spirit, be with us today and always. Amen.
Welcome and Announcements
Hymn #133 O Come, All Ye Faithful
Call to Worship 2
ALL: The year has thinned, the light seems weaker, the year is tired, and the season running out. Yet here we are in the place of life. For this place believes in things beyond time and season. We might live in the echo of stables and incarnation, holding onto faith in the year's last days. Yet what do we do, but perform acts of renewal and rebirth, of baptism and hope, of seeking new life shaped in Jesus Christ. So let us gather in what the world sees as the cusp of the year, yet we know as another day in the eternity of love. Let us celebrate who we are and who we are yet to be. Come let us be together and worship.
Hymn 144 In the Bleak Midwinter
Affirmation of Faith 3
We believe in God, creator and lover of the earth, origin and destiny of us all. We believe in Jesus the Christ - God coming to us in the fragile promise of a baby yet unborn - who emerges as the herald of hope, God's laughter in the face of despair. Plunged into death and hell, he broke free the captives, and is leading the way to the land of promise where justice and peace will flourish. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who implants the seed of truth, brings us to birth as the body of Christ, and empowers us to confront and transform all that is corrupt, degrading and deceitful. We believe in the coming reign of God. Announced by the Baptist, it has drawn near to us in Jesus, and will be consummated in the glorious marriage of earth and heaven, when all who have passed through the world's deep sorrow will be raised from the waters, robed in righteousness, and gathered into the joyous fulfilment of God's desire. For the coming of that day on this day, we work and pray: Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Response #145
This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud, the babe, the son of Mary.
Sharing the Peace of Christ
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response #155
Raise a song of gladness, peoples of the earth.
Christ has come, bringing peace, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart
Hebrew Reading: Isaiah 63:7-9
Hymn 109 Blest Be the God of Israel
Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:13-18
Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:19-23
Gospel Reading: Luke 2:15-21
Hymn #135 There's a Star in the East
Litany of Gratitude
ONE: Generous God, for the abundance of your blessings to us day by day and year by year,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: For the simple pleasures of life: for garden harvests, coffee conversation, and familiar surroundings, For health and strength to appreciate the wonder of life, For needs met and desires fulfilled,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: For foods distributed to nourish body and spirit, For homes which supply shelter, which nurture order and beauty, and offer hospitality,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: With hearts that forgive as freely as you have forgiven, with enthusiasm of spirit for the gift of life, with music which declares your everlasting goodness, with prayers for mutual understanding and peace,
ALL: We worship you with joy.
ONE: With creative pursuits which contribute our God-given talents, with words which honor you as Creator, Redeemer, and Holy Spirit, with time volunteered and dedicated to service in church and community, with years committed to extending the love of Jesus Christ,
ALL: We worship you with joy.
ONE: With gifts of money which reach farther than we can manage ourselves, with deeds done in service of neighbor and stranger, with holy days set apart to celebrate your goodness and grace, with family and friends distant and nearby
ALL: We worship you, God, with grateful hearts and joyful spirit. Alleluia. Amen.
Hymn 134 Joy to the World
Invitation to the Offering
In Matthew 2:11 we read, “On entering the house, the wise men saw the child with his mother, and knelt down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts.” Today as we celebrate the birth of the child, we are invited to offer our gifts as well. We acknowledge and give thanks for all the gifts of time and creativity and talent and energy and ideas and money that are collected every day here at Bethany. Let us respond from grateful hearts to this invitation to give.
Offertory Hymn 151 We Three Kings of Orient Are
Prayer of Dedication
God of Love and Light, on this day of mystery and wonder, we present our offering here, knowing you will guide us for its use. Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People 4
ONE: Quietly the New Year slips in. Are we now more fearful, the radio asks? More careful? More tired? Are we now more aware of the suffering, the violence, the inequality, the injustice in our world? Holy God, in this New Year, we seek you as we have always sought you. We need you as we have always needed you. We hunger for your presence, your peace, your justice and your love. Open our hearts afresh and anew. Open our minds that we may know you. Open our hands that we may care for you. Open our ears and eyes that we may hear and see you in our neighbor, in the foreigner, in the refugee, even in our enemy, And, perhaps especially, in ourselves. That we may know in the deepest part of ourselves that you call us and that we are capable of seeing and naming, doing and being your love, your peace, your hope and your justice in this your world. Hear us now, as we pray together, the prayer your Son taught us to pray, in whatever language or wording that brings us closer to you. Let us 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Hymn 123 It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
Community Benediction for the New Year 5
Let us look for Christ wherever we go. Let us never stop seeking, believing that there is a light that shines in the darkness which the darkness shall not overcome. And may the love of the Creator, the joy of the Spirit, and the peace of the Christ-child be with us this New Year, and ever more.
Closing Charge
Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!
Hymn 136 Go, Tell It on the Mountain
1 Prospect Hill Co. (adapted)
2 Roddy Hamilton, Listening to the Stones Used by permission
4 Rev Thandiwe Dale-Ferguson Worship Words
5 Cara Heafey Worship Words
Due to circumstances beyond our control and the vagaries of Facebook, we are unable to post today's worship video.
December 24, 2024
Candlelight Christmas Eve
Reverend Debra McGuire
Music Director - Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Prelude A Christmas Medley Presented and Arranged by George Lynch
Christmas Chimes
Welcome
Introit Calypso Lullaby Jester Hairston
Sharing of Christmas Greetings
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response Hymn 132
Good Christian Friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice!
Give ye heed to what we say: Jesus Christ is born today;
Ox and ass before him bow, and he is in the manger now.
Christ is born today! Christ was born today!
Lighting of the Christ Candle
ONE: We come to receive the light of Christ as we celebrate his miraculous birth; we receive this light that illuminates the holy path of hope, peace, joy, and love. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onwards and for evermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
Let us pray:
ALL: O Lord our God, the night is far spent, and the day is at hand. Keep us observant, watching for the coming of your Son, in whom is light to reflect your splendor. Come and lead us to joy and peace. Amen.
Hymn 134 Joy to the World
Christmas Prayer
O God of love, you have brought us together tonight and blessed us with your very self. Open our eyes to the light of Christ which glows in the darkness of a world engulfed in apathy, pain and loss; a world separated from you. Speak to us now that we may hear the good news of your salvation. Bring us into the wonder of your presence. Fill us with that light that we may carry it out with us into our lives. Amen.
Response Hymn 152
O Jesus, while the star of grace
impels us on to seek your face,
Let not our slothful hearts refuse
the guidance of your light to use.
Hebrew Reading: Isaiah 9:2-7
Musical Offering Were You There on that Christmas Night? Natalie Sleeth
Gospel Reading: Luke 2:1-7
Hymn 121 O Little Town of Bethlehem
Gospel Reading: Luke 2: 8-14
Hymn 113 Angels We Have Heard on High
Gospel Reading: Luke 2:15-20
Christmas Message Reverend Debra McGuire
Musical Offering Mary Did You Know Buddy Greene and Mark Lowry
Invitation to the Offering
In Matthew 2:11 we read, “On entering the house, the wise men saw the child with his mother, and knelt down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts.” Tonight as we celebrate the birth of the child, we are invited to offer our gifts as well. We acknowledge and give thanks for all the gifts of time and creativity and talent and energy and ideas and money that are collected every day here at Bethany. Let us respond from grateful hearts to this invitation to give.
Offertory Whence Comes This Rush of Wings? French Carol, Arr. Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Prayer of Dedication
God of Love and Light, on this night of mystery and wonder, we present our offering here, knowing you will guide us for its use. Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory. Amen.
Musical Offering Face of God Phil Wickham, Shane Barnard, and Shane Everett
Christmas Candle Lighting
ONE: We who dwelled in darkness have seen a great light;
ALL: And on us this night a great light shines.
ONE: A Child has been born for us.
ALL: And he is named Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, Emmanuel.
Hymn 122 Silent Night, Holy Night
Merry Christmas!
Go in Peace!
Christmas Bells
Opening Prayer 1
Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Risen Christ, be with us today and always. Be our Light, our Guide, and our Comforter. Be our Strength, our Courage, and our Sanctifier. As we approach this New Year, may this be a time of deep spiritual growth for us, a time for welcoming your graces and gifts, a time for forgiving freely and unconditionally, a time for growing in virtue and goodness. Come, Holy Spirit, be with us today and always. Amen.
Welcome and Announcements
Hymn #133 O Come, All Ye Faithful
Call to Worship 2
ALL: The year has thinned, the light seems weaker, the year is tired, and the season running out. Yet here we are in the place of life. For this place believes in things beyond time and season. We might live in the echo of stables and incarnation, holding onto faith in the year's last days. Yet what do we do, but perform acts of renewal and rebirth, of baptism and hope, of seeking new life shaped in Jesus Christ. So let us gather in what the world sees as the cusp of the year, yet we know as another day in the eternity of love. Let us celebrate who we are and who we are yet to be. Come let us be together and worship.
Hymn 144 In the Bleak Midwinter
Affirmation of Faith 3
We believe in God, creator and lover of the earth, origin and destiny of us all. We believe in Jesus the Christ - God coming to us in the fragile promise of a baby yet unborn - who emerges as the herald of hope, God's laughter in the face of despair. Plunged into death and hell, he broke free the captives, and is leading the way to the land of promise where justice and peace will flourish. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who implants the seed of truth, brings us to birth as the body of Christ, and empowers us to confront and transform all that is corrupt, degrading and deceitful. We believe in the coming reign of God. Announced by the Baptist, it has drawn near to us in Jesus, and will be consummated in the glorious marriage of earth and heaven, when all who have passed through the world's deep sorrow will be raised from the waters, robed in righteousness, and gathered into the joyous fulfilment of God's desire. For the coming of that day on this day, we work and pray: Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Response #145
This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud, the babe, the son of Mary.
Sharing the Peace of Christ
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response #155
Raise a song of gladness, peoples of the earth.
Christ has come, bringing peace, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart
Hebrew Reading: Isaiah 63:7-9
Hymn 109 Blest Be the God of Israel
Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:13-18
Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:19-23
Gospel Reading: Luke 2:15-21
Hymn #135 There's a Star in the East
Litany of Gratitude
ONE: Generous God, for the abundance of your blessings to us day by day and year by year,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: For the simple pleasures of life: for garden harvests, coffee conversation, and familiar surroundings, For health and strength to appreciate the wonder of life, For needs met and desires fulfilled,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: For foods distributed to nourish body and spirit, For homes which supply shelter, which nurture order and beauty, and offer hospitality,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: With hearts that forgive as freely as you have forgiven, with enthusiasm of spirit for the gift of life, with music which declares your everlasting goodness, with prayers for mutual understanding and peace,
ALL: We worship you with joy.
ONE: With creative pursuits which contribute our God-given talents, with words which honor you as Creator, Redeemer, and Holy Spirit, with time volunteered and dedicated to service in church and community, with years committed to extending the love of Jesus Christ,
ALL: We worship you with joy.
ONE: With gifts of money which reach farther than we can manage ourselves, with deeds done in service of neighbor and stranger, with holy days set apart to celebrate your goodness and grace, with family and friends distant and nearby
ALL: We worship you, God, with grateful hearts and joyful spirit. Alleluia. Amen.
Hymn 134 Joy to the World
Invitation to the Offering
In Matthew 2:11 we read, “On entering the house, the wise men saw the child with his mother, and knelt down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts.” Today as we celebrate the birth of the child, we are invited to offer our gifts as well. We acknowledge and give thanks for all the gifts of time and creativity and talent and energy and ideas and money that are collected every day here at Bethany. Let us respond from grateful hearts to this invitation to give.
Offertory Hymn 151 We Three Kings of Orient Are
Prayer of Dedication
God of Love and Light, on this day of mystery and wonder, we present our offering here, knowing you will guide us for its use. Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People 4
ONE: Quietly the New Year slips in. Are we now more fearful, the radio asks? More careful? More tired? Are we now more aware of the suffering, the violence, the inequality, the injustice in our world? Holy God, in this New Year, we seek you as we have always sought you. We need you as we have always needed you. We hunger for your presence, your peace, your justice and your love. Open our hearts afresh and anew. Open our minds that we may know you. Open our hands that we may care for you. Open our ears and eyes that we may hear and see you in our neighbor, in the foreigner, in the refugee, even in our enemy, And, perhaps especially, in ourselves. That we may know in the deepest part of ourselves that you call us and that we are capable of seeing and naming, doing and being your love, your peace, your hope and your justice in this your world. Hear us now, as we pray together, the prayer your Son taught us to pray, in whatever language or wording that brings us closer to you. Let us 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Hymn 123 It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
Community Benediction for the New Year 5
Let us look for Christ wherever we go. Let us never stop seeking, believing that there is a light that shines in the darkness which the darkness shall not overcome. And may the love of the Creator, the joy of the Spirit, and the peace of the Christ-child be with us this New Year, and ever more.
Closing Charge
Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!
Hymn 136 Go, Tell It on the Mountain
1 Prospect Hill Co. (adapted)
2 Roddy Hamilton, Listening to the Stones Used by permission
4 Rev Thandiwe Dale-Ferguson Worship Words
5 Cara Heafey Worship Words
January 5, 2025
Celebration of Holy Communion
Reverend Debra McGuire
Music Director - Jessica Reddell-Popovich
Liturgist:
Christmas Bells
Opening Prayer 1
Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Risen Christ, be with us today and always. Be our Light, our Guide, and our Comforter. Be our Strength, our Courage, and our Sanctifier. As we approach this New Year, may this be a time of deep spiritual growth for us, a time for welcoming your graces and gifts, a time for forgiving freely and unconditionally, a time for growing in virtue and goodness. Come, Holy Spirit, be with us today and always. Amen.
Welcome and Announcements
Hymn #133 O Come, All Ye Faithful
Call to Worship 2
ALL: The year has thinned, the light seems weaker, the year is tired, and the season running out. Yet here we are in the place of life. For this place believes in things beyond time and season. We might live in the echo of stables and incarnation, holding onto faith in the year's last days. Yet what do we do, but perform acts of renewal and rebirth, of baptism and hope, of seeking new life shaped in Jesus Christ. So let us gather in what the world sees as the cusp of the year, yet we know as another day in the eternity of love. Let us celebrate who we are and who we are yet to be. Come let us be together and worship.
Hymn 144 In the Bleak Midwinter
Affirmation of Faith 3
We believe in God, creator and lover of the earth, origin and destiny of us all. We believe in Jesus the Christ - God coming to us in the fragile promise of a baby yet unborn - who emerges as the herald of hope, God's laughter in the face of despair. Plunged into death and hell, he broke free the captives, and is leading the way to the land of promise where justice and peace will flourish. We believe in the Holy Spirit, who implants the seed of truth, brings us to birth as the body of Christ, and empowers us to confront and transform all that is corrupt, degrading and deceitful. We believe in the coming reign of God. Announced by the Baptist, it has drawn near to us in Jesus, and will be consummated in the glorious marriage of earth and heaven, when all who have passed through the world's deep sorrow will be raised from the waters, robed in righteousness, and gathered into the joyous fulfilment of God's desire. For the coming of that day on this day, we work and pray: Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Response #145
This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud, the babe, the son of Mary.
Sharing the Peace of Christ
ONE: The peace of Christ be with you.
RESPONSE: And also with you.
Response #155
Raise a song of gladness, peoples of the earth.
Christ has come, bringing peace, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart.
Alleluia, alleluia, joy to every heart
Hebrew Reading: Isaiah 63:7-9
Hymn 109 Blest Be the God of Israel
Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:13-18
Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:19-23
Gospel Reading: Luke 2:15-21
Hymn #135 There's a Star in the East
Litany of Gratitude
ONE: Generous God, for the abundance of your blessings to us day by day and year by year,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: For the simple pleasures of life: for garden harvests, coffee conversation, and familiar surroundings, For health and strength to appreciate the wonder of life, For needs met and desires fulfilled,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: For foods distributed to nourish body and spirit, For homes which supply shelter, which nurture order and beauty, and offer hospitality,
ALL: We give you our thanks.
ONE: With hearts that forgive as freely as you have forgiven, with enthusiasm of spirit for the gift of life, with music which declares your everlasting goodness, with prayers for mutual understanding and peace,
ALL: We worship you with joy.
ONE: With creative pursuits which contribute our God-given talents, with words which honor you as Creator, Redeemer, and Holy Spirit, with time volunteered and dedicated to service in church and community, with years committed to extending the love of Jesus Christ,
ALL: We worship you with joy.
ONE: With gifts of money which reach farther than we can manage ourselves, with deeds done in service of neighbor and stranger, with holy days set apart to celebrate your goodness and grace, with family and friends distant and nearby
ALL: We worship you, God, with grateful hearts and joyful spirit. Alleluia. Amen.
Hymn 134 Joy to the World
Invitation to the Offering
In Matthew 2:11 we read, “On entering the house, the wise men saw the child with his mother, and knelt down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts.” Today as we celebrate the birth of the child, we are invited to offer our gifts as well. We acknowledge and give thanks for all the gifts of time and creativity and talent and energy and ideas and money that are collected every day here at Bethany. Let us respond from grateful hearts to this invitation to give.
Offertory Hymn 151 We Three Kings of Orient Are
Prayer of Dedication
God of Love and Light, on this day of mystery and wonder, we present our offering here, knowing you will guide us for its use. Bless what we give and bless what we keep, that all may be used for your glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People 4
ONE: Quietly the New Year slips in. Are we now more fearful, the radio asks? More careful? More tired? Are we now more aware of the suffering, the violence, the inequality, the injustice in our world? Holy God, in this New Year, we seek you as we have always sought you. We need you as we have always needed you. We hunger for your presence, your peace, your justice and your love. Open our hearts afresh and anew. Open our minds that we may know you. Open our hands that we may care for you. Open our ears and eyes that we may hear and see you in our neighbor, in the foreigner, in the refugee, even in our enemy, And, perhaps especially, in ourselves. That we may know in the deepest part of ourselves that you call us and that we are capable of seeing and naming, doing and being your love, your peace, your hope and your justice in this your world. Hear us now, as we pray together, the prayer your Son taught us to pray, in whatever language or wording that brings us closer to you. Let us 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Hymn 123 It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
Community Benediction for the New Year 5
Let us look for Christ wherever we go. Let us never stop seeking, believing that there is a light that shines in the darkness which the darkness shall not overcome. And may the love of the Creator, the joy of the Spirit, and the peace of the Christ-child be with us this New Year, and ever more.
Closing Charge
Go out into the world in peace. Have courage! Hold on to what is good. Return no person evil for evil. Strengthen the faint-hearted, support the weak, help the suffering. Honor all people. Love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!
Hymn 136 Go, Tell It on the Mountain
1 Prospect Hill Co. (adapted)
2 Roddy Hamilton, Listening to the Stones Used by permission
4 Rev Thandiwe Dale-Ferguson Worship Words
5 Cara Heafey Worship Words