December 27 @ St. Paul's UMC: Worship

First Sunday of Christmas

Today’s Meditation Verse: “I surely rejoice in the Lord; my heart is joyful because of my God….” --Isaiah 61:10a

Welcome—Claudia M.

Prelude: “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” —Louise C.

Call to Worship (Galatians 4:4-7)—Claudia M. (Leader) and Bob M. (People)

Congregation is encouraged to read People’s response aloud on mute setting

Leader: But when the fullness of time had come, God sent the Son, born of a woman, born under the law,

People: In order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children.

Leader: And because you are children, God has sent the Spirit of the Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”

People: So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God.

Hymn: “Joy to the World” Verses 1 & 2 — Lorie C. and Rebecca G.

Congregation is encouraged to sing along on mute setting; words and music will be provided onscreen

 

Away with Our Fears (Charles Wesley, 1745)—Bob M.

Congregation is encouraged to read aloud on mute setting

Away with our fears! The Godhead appears in Christ reconciled, the Father of Mercies in Jesus the Child. He comes from above, in manifest love, the Desire of our eyes, the meek Lamb of God in a manger He lies. At Immanuel's birth what a triumph on earth! Yet could it afford no better a place for its heavenly Lord! The Ancient of Days to redeem a lost race, from His glory comes down, self-humbled to carry us up to a crown.

Made flesh for our sake, that we might partake the nature Divine, and again in His image, His holiness shine; a heavenly birth experience on earth, and rise on His throne, and live with our Jesus eternally one. Then let us believe, and gladly receive the tidings they bring, who publish to sinners their Saviour and King. And while we are here our King shall appear, His Spirit impart, and form His full image of love in our heart.

Community prayer requests, concerns, and celebrations—Claudia M.

Congregational Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer—Claudia M.

Congregation is encouraged to pray The Lord’s Prayer aloud on mute setting

Old Testament Lesson: Psalm 118:24-29—Bob M.

Musical Offering: “Truth and The Light” —Chancel Choir (January 12, 2020)                

Gospel Lesson: Luke 14:16-24—Bob M.

Sermon: “It’s today!”—Claudia M.

Celebration of Ministry: Philosophy of Religion discussion group--Claudia M. and Scott G.

 

Hymn: “He Is Born” Verses 1 & 2 —Lorie Courier and Rebecca Glancy

Congregation is encouraged to sing along on mute setting; words and music will be provided onscreen

Words for the Journey—Claudia M.

Postlude: “We Are the Church” —Louise C.