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A Festival of Lessons and Carols

ABOUT TODAY’S SERVICE

The lessons and carols service for Christmas is a tradition that dates back to the late 1800s in England. Originating at Truro Cathedral, the lessons begin with prophetic scriptures from the Old Testament; narratives from the Gospels then recount the stories surrounding the birth of Jesus. The final scripture is traditionally from the beginning of the Gospel according to John, which focuses on what Christ’s birth means for us, even today. The lessons are interspersed with anthems and carols, which offer expressions that help us to understand the good news of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World.

PRELUDE

Brass Ensemble: Carols for Christmas

Calvin Bell Choir: Largo Deborah Holden-Holloway Sleep, Holy Babe Traditional Carol

Little Drummer Boy Harry Simeon PROCESSIONAL OF THE PEACE LIGHT Patrick and Esmé Elkins, Luke Aparato Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying setting, Paul Manz

*PROCESSIONAL HYMN (see page 2) Once in Royal David’s City IRBY

BIDDING PRAYER and THE LORD’S PRAYER Rev. Marc Oehler Friends in Christ,

in this Christmas season we delight to hear again the message of the angels, to go to Bethlehem and see the Son of God lying in a manger. Let us therefore open the Holy Scriptures and read the story of the loving purpose of God in the glorious redemption brought to us by this Holy Child, and let us make this place glad with carols of praise. But first, let us pray for the needs of the whole world: for peace and justice on earth . . . for the unity and mission of the Church for which Christ died . . . And because Christ particularly loves them, let us remember in Christ’s name: the poor and helpless . . . the cold, the hungry, the oppressed . . . the sick and those who mourn . . .

*The congregation may stand.

December 24, 2019 West Side Presbyterian Church 4:00 pm

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the lonely and unloved . . . the aged and little children . . . Finally, let us remember before God that multitude which no one can number, whose hope was in the Word made flesh, and with whom, in Jesus, we are one forevermore . . . And now, let us pray the words which Christ taught us, saying, Our Father . . . (using “debts” and “debtors”)

THE LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT AND CHRIST CANDLES Mike and Katie Rome, Chloe, Emma, Camryn and Eleanor THE PREPARATION

Choir: Prepare your hearts to receive the light of the world.

Congregation: The Family: Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; anyone who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Family Member: Why do we light five candles?

Family Member: We light five candles as a sign of the coming light of Christ. Advent means coming. We are preparing ourselves for the days of hope, peace, joy, love and light as we join our voices with the psalmist who sings: “O sing to the LORD a new song; declare God’s glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples.” (Psalm 96: 1a, 3)

let us walk in the light of the lord!

THE RESPONSE (congregation) Christ is the Light of the World

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In the nine lessons that follow, the reading of each lesson concludes with the phrase “the Word of The Lord.” The congregational response is “Thanks be to God.”

THE FIRST LESSON Isaiah 40: 1-5 Rev. Marc Oehler Pastor, Head of Staff

The prophet hears the divine voice telling him to make ready a great processional highway for

God’s appearance and to announce the good news that God is coming. CAROL Comfort, Comfort Ye, My People setting, John Ferguson

“Comfort, comfort now My people; tell of peace!” so says our God. Comfort to those who sit in darkness mourning under sorrows load.

To God’s people now proclaim that God’s pardon waits for them! Tell them that their war is over; God will reign in peace forever!

For the herald’s voice is crying in the desert far and near, calling us to true repentance, since the Kingdom now is here.

Oh, that warning cry obey! Now prepare for God a way! Let the valleys rise to meet Him, and the hills bow down to greet Him! Straight shall be what long was crooked, and the rougher places plain!

Let your hearts be true and humble, as befits His holy reign! For the glory of the Lord now on earth is shed abroad,

and all flesh shall see the token that God’s word is never broken. -Johann G. Olearius

High School Choir

THE SECOND LESSON Isaiah 40: 6-11 Rev. Penny Hogan Associate Pastor

The good news is to be spread among the people: God will care for His people as a shepherd cares for his sheep.

ANTHEM And He Shall Feed His Flock (from Messiah) George Frederic Handel

And He shall feed His flock like a shepherd, and He shall carry the lambs in His arm,

and carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.

Chapel, Covenant and John Knox Boy Choirs, and High School trebles

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THE THIRD LESSON Micah 5:2-4 Rev. Liz Junod Pastoral Associate

The Messiah will come from little Bethlehem. He will rule as a shepherd; His kingdom will be worldwide.

*CAROL HYMN 44 O Little Town of Bethlehem ST. LOUIS

THE FOURTH LESSON Luke 1:26-38 Deborah Holden-Holloway Minister of Music

The Angel Gabriel comes to Mary and tells her that she will give birth to the Messiah.

CAROL Nova, Nova! Michael Bedford

The angel, Gabriel by name, unto the Virgin Mary came, with joyful news unto the same. Nova, nova! Tidings of salvation!

Then said the angel, “Do not fear, I bring you glad news for you to hear: You will bring forth God’s Son so dear.” Nova, nova! Tidings of salvation!

Then Mary looked unto the sky: “Be as it pleases God on high, whose name my soul shall magnify.” Nova, nova! Tidings of salvation!

By her the Christ Child comes to earth, in Bethlehem to have His birth; let all the world be filled with mirth! Nova, nova! Tidings of salvation!

Chapel, Covenant and John Knox Boy Choirs, and men of the High School Choir

THE FIFTH LESSON Matthew 1:18-25 Erik Eickhoff Associate Minister of Music

The angel announces that Mary is to have a Son by the creative act of the Holy Spirit. She will name Him Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.

ANTHEM Psallite attributed to Michael Praetorius

The Anthem continues.

Psallite, unigenito Christo Dei Filio, redemptori Domino, puerulo, iacenti in praesepio

Sing psalms to the only-begotten, Christ the Son of God, the Redeemer Lord, the little baby lying in a manger.

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THE SIXTH LESSON Luke 2:1-7 Lynn Morneweck-Fuld Elder, Worship and Music Council

Luke tells the story of the birth of Jesus. He was poor and unnoticed. Yet in Him, God has entered human life.

*CAROL HYMN 36 In the Bleak Midwinter CRANHAM

THE SEVENTH LESSON Luke 2:8-14 Tommy Montgomery, Chorister High School Choir

To the shepherds in the field comes the good news of the birth of the Savior of the world.

ANTHEM Sing Noel! Natalie Sleeth

Shepherds, shepherds, hear the story: Christ is born in Bethlehem. Rise and go to see His glory, leave your flock to welcome Him!

Sing noel, O sing noel, for Christ is born! Angels, angels, heavenly chorus, Christ has come to earth today!

Bright the star that shines before us, pointing clear to all the way! Sing noel, O sing noel, for Christ is born!

Carol Choir

*CAROL HYMN 23 Angels We Have Heard on High GLORIA

THE EIGHTH LESSON Matthew 2:1-11 Gigi Ochs, Chorister Covenant Choir

The coming of the Wise Men indicates that Jesus was for all people.

When Jesus came, the ends of the earth gathered at His cradle.

Ein kleines Kindelein liegt in dem Krippelein, alle liebe Engelein dienen dem Kindelein, und singen ihm fein.

A little child is lying in a manger, all dear angels pay Him homage and sing beautifully to Him.

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CAROL The Exeter Carol setting, Barry Rose

In a stable so bare the Christ-child was born, sing heavenly praise on this blessed morn, wise men from the east journeyed from afar, they followed the light of the star. O blessed Mary, virgin, maiden mild, sweet mother of all humankind, boy Jesus is born to save us from sin, in a stable, no room at the inn. O sleep, gentle child, asleep in the hay, God’s creatures around, they will not stray. This wondrous fair night for all to behold, wise men from the east bearing gold. Eyes that twinkle in the lantern’s ray, a Babe so small in the hay, Child of the stable’s wondrous birth; God’s greatest gift to the earth.

Chapel, Covenant and John Knox Boy Choirs THE NINTH LESSON John 1:1-14 John Chang, Chorister John Knox Boy Choir

The Gospel of John presents Jesus as the eternal Word of God,

who “became a human being and lived among us.” As the book itself says, this Gospel was written so that its readers might believe that Jesus is the promised Savior, the Son of God,

and that through their faith in Him they may have life. *CAROL 40 Joy to the World! ANTIOCH OFFERING

ANTHEM Climb to the Top of the Highest Mountain Carolyn Jennings

Climb to the top of the highest mountain, joyous tidings proclaim to the world, lift up your voice, shout the good news: Behold, your Lord comes to you.

He will feed His flock like a shepherd, He will carry the lambs in His arms, He will ever keep them safe from harm.

He who made the stars in heaven, He who fashioned the earth and the sea, from time eternal, He was Alpha and Omega, He, behold, your Lord!

The Anthem continues.

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He will come in power and glory, He will rule with mercy and truth,

hope of nations, light of all the world.

He will love the little children, He will hold them in His arms. Love Him and trust Him as a child.

Combined Choirs

*CAROL HYMN 46 On This Day Earth Shall Ring PERSONENT HODIE

BENEDICTION (seated) Rev. Marc Oehler CONGREGATIONAL RESPONSE (seated) CAROL HYMN 60 Silent Night, Holy Night STILLE NACHT

Please remain seated while the choirs recess.

The carol will be sung by the combined choirs first in German, as it was originally composed in 1818 by Franz Gruber.

Following the introduction, please remain seated and sing all verses.

Parents, please pick up your children in the Chapel.

POSTLUDE In dulci jubilo setting, Michael Praetorius

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Participants in the Service

Crucifer: Grace Coxworth

Torches: Morgan Fuld, Natalie Morell

Banner Carriers: Madison Essex, Adrianna Monaco, Tommy Montgomery,

Emma Wilhjelm, David Yang

Peace Light: Patrick and Esmé Elkins, Luke Aparato

Calvin Bell Choir

instrumentalists

Grace Coxworth Morgan Fuld Kevin Hanse

Robert Holloway

Eileen Leon Emily McNamara Peter McNamara Adrianna Monaco

Natalie Morell Alicia Rivers

Emma Wilhjelm

Flute Caroline Sonett-Assor

Clarinet Lynne Schreur French Horn Carolyn Kirby

Chris Wilhjelm

Trumpet Michael Connor Albert Semler Tony Spinuzzi

Trombone Henry Heyzer

Daniel Montella

Percussion Michael Klopp

Chimes Kevin Hanse

Choir Accompanists Erik Eickhoff

Esther Van Ness

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Merry Christmas from Pastor Marc!

As I reflect on this past year (my fifth as your pastor) and anticipate the next chapter in our journey together, I’m excited about the way we’ve opened our hearts more fully to all of God’s people, committed to a deeper journey with Christ and one another, and served more whole-heartedly the most vulnerable among us. I’m humbled and blessed to serve Christ alongside you.

Please join me in thanking God for some of the highlights of 2019:

We launched an exciting program for K-5 kids, which is open to the community. On Thursday afternoons, children enjoy fellow-ship and faith formation through singing, dancing, fun games, team-building activities and pizza!

During Lent, we raised $46,000 for West Bergen Mental Healthcare to help those who desperately need—but can’t afford—treatment for mental illness. And, in the process, we raised awareness about the mental health crisis in this country. We also hosted a seminar for parents called “Kids Under Pressure” and will roll out more mental health programs next year in partner-ship with West Bergen.

In addition to our ongoing commitment to feeding and tutoring our neighbors in Paterson, sharing holiday meals with prisoners and repairing homes for low-income families (to name just a few), we collected backpacks and school supplies for more than 110 families at Oasis in Pater-son and helped refugees from Nicaragua and Cameroon get settled in Bergen County.

West Side hosted two major community-wide events in 2019—an afternoon with Justin Lee, founder of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ Christian advocacy organization, and an evening with Jessica Zitter, M.D., an end-of-life-care specialist, in partnership with The Valley Hospital. Both programs were an incredible gift to the hundreds of people who attended.

We provided more space for members and friends of West Side to grow in faith, with nearly 30 men participating in a spiritual weekend retreat, an expanding small-groups ministry, and new Bible studies on Sunday and during the week. (Save the date—January 25—for a spiritual writing workshop open to the community.)

Fun social events attracted members of all ages—Family Square Dance, Trunk or Treat, Trivia Night, New Jersey Devils Game, 30s and 40s Night and Family Christmas Celebration.

You can keep up with what’s happening at West Side—and stay connected—by visiting our website (westside.org), watching our sermons on YouTube (westsidepres), following us on Facebook (westsideridgewood) and Instagram (@wspresbyterian and @wspckids), and reading the weekly e-blast (email cbialkowski@westside.org to sign up).

I hope you enjoy today’s celebration of Christ’s birth, and I look forward to connecting, growing and serving with you in the New Year! — Pastor Marc

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COMING UP AT WEST SIDE

Join Us on New Year’s Eve Pastor Penny will lead a meditative, experiential service with Communion in the Chapel at 5:00 pm on December 31. Look back—and forward—with eyes of faith in company with one another and with God during our last worship service of 2019.

Estate Planning for Your Heart—Part One 92% of people say talking with loved ones about end-of-life care is important. Yet only 32% have actually done so. At a hands-on workshop on January 12 at 11:30 am, we’ll give you the tools you need to have a conversation with your family about your wishes for end-of-life care. We’ll put our thoughts down on paper during Part Two, which will take place on March 29 at 11:30 am. Want a preview? Visit www.theconversationproject.org.

Third Annual Trivia Night Mark your calendar—January 11 at 7:00 pm—for Trivia Night with David Madden, winner of the 2019 Jeopardy! All-Star Games Tournament. Create your own five-person team, or we’ll create one for you. Please RSVP to Pastor Liz (ljunod@westside.org).

IS THIS YOUR FIRST TIME VISITING?

Welcome! We’re so glad you’re here. We look forward to helping you connect with others, grow more deeply in your faith and enrich your own life by serving others. Wherever you are on life’s journey, there’s a place for you at West Side.

Please stop by the visitor table located just inside the front doors, fill out a Let’s Connect card and pick up a visitor bag. One of our pastors will be happy to get in touch with you!

Rev. Marc Oehler, pastor, moehler@westside.org Rev. Penny Hogan, associate pastor, phogan@westside.org Rev. Liz Junod, pastoral associate, ljunod@westside.org Deborah Holden-Holloway, minister of music, dholden-holloway@westside.org Erik Eickhoff, associate minister of music, eeickhoff@westside.org Eric Hufschmid, contemporary music leader, ehufschmid@westside.org

To learn more about our faith community, and to see a complete staff directory, please visit westside.org.

6 South Monroe Street Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-652-1966 westside.org