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December 3, 2017First Sunday of AdventColor: Purple or Blue

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 64:1–9 Tear open the heavens and come down; save us from our sin.

Psalm 80:1–7, 17–19 Restore us, O God; let your face shine, and save us. 1 Corinthians 1:3–9 God will strengthen you while you wait for Christ’s coming. Mark 13:24–37 In those days the stars will fall from heaven; keep awake.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

May accompany the lighting of Advent candlesJesus says: I am coming soon. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!Heaven and earth will pass away,but the word of God endures forever.Let us worship God.

HYMN, PSALM, OR SPIRITUAL SONG

THANKSGIVING FOR BAPTISM

At the baptismal font: The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the hope and longing you instill in usthrough the promise of our baptism—a voice crying out in the wilderness,a messenger to prepare the way,the day of redemption drawing near.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,keep us awake and make us readyfor the coming of your glorious realmof righteousness, justice, and peace;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

CONFESSION AND PARDON At the baptismal font:We have all sinned, not one of us is clean;but there is mercy for thosewho call on the name of the Lord.

Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin.God our Maker, we confessthat we are not ready to meet you. We study the trends of our timesand ignore the signs of your reign.We trust in things that pass awayand forget your eternal promise. Forgive us, God of grace. Strengthen us, by your hand,so that we may be ready for that daywhen you come to reign in glory;through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lifting water from the font:Every valley is lifted up; every mountain, made low. Now the glory of the Lord is revealed,for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God.

— Word —

PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION

At the lectern or pulpit: Holy God, our hope and strength,by the power of your Spiritprepare the way in our heartsfor the coming of your Word,so that we may see the glorious signsof your promise fulfilled;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

SCRIPTURE

Before the readings: A voice is crying in the wilderness:Listen to the word of the Lord.

Mark 1:3; John 1:23

After the readings: Heaven and earth will pass awaybut the word of the Lord stands forever.Thanks be to God. Isaiah 40:8; Mark 13:31

SERMON

ASCRIPTION OF PRAISE After the sermon: Now to the God of all wisdom, who strengthens us according to the gospel,through Jesus Christ be all glory forever. Amen. Romans 16:25–27


AFFIRMATION OF FAITH

Season of Advent (and Christmas)Out of Israel, God in due time raised up Jesus. His faith and obedience were the response of the perfect child of God. He was the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel, the beginning of the new creation, and the pioneer of the new humanity. He gave history its meaning and direction and called the church to be his servant for the reconciliation of the world. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.19

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

Watching and waiting for the coming of Christ, we pray for the promise of a new creation,saying: Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for the church . . .Let your reign of love shape us,as a master potter skillfully forms a vessel,that we may reveal your beauty to the world.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for the world . . . Draw near to those who wait for you. Break into their circumstances with blessing.

Heal the earth that awaits your restoration.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for this community . . . Transform the places in which we live.Grant that the gifts you have given all of usmay be used for the common good.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you.With expectation, we pray for loved ones . . . Comfort all who suffer and despair.Assure them of your presence and care.Let your face shine and save us. Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. God our hope, as the promised day approaches, fill us with the joy of your Holy Spiritand strengthen us to serve you faithfully; through Christ, who is coming to reign. Amen.

— Eucharist —

INVITATION TO OFFERING

At the communion table: All things in heaven and earth belong to God, who is coming in glory to reveal a new creation. Therefore, let us offer our lives to the Lord. 2 Peter 3:8–15

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

At the communion table: God Most High, receive the gifts of our livesas an offering of gratitude for your grace.Overshadow us with your Holy Spiritand let it be with us according to your word,for nothing is impossible with you. Amen. Luke 1:35–38; 1 Corinthians 1:4

GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:

The heavens tremble and the mountains quake at your presence. Although we have forsaken you, you have never forgotten us: you are the potter and we are the clay, the work of your hand. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Christ Jesus is our grace and peace, the Word that we proclaim, the source of all our strength, and the giver of every good gift. In Christ’s body, we have received fellowship with you, our God.The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Keep us awake until the hour of Christ’s coming,when the sun and moon and stars will fall from heavenand you will gather up the faithful from the ends of the earth.Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD

COMMUNION OF THE PEOPLE


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

At the communion table:God our hope, we give you thanks that you have given us this foretasteof the justice, righteousness, and peace

of your promised new creation. Strengthen us with this heavenly foodas we seek to serve your holy realm. Lead us to live in joyful expectation of the coming again in gloryof Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE

At the doors of the church:May the God of peace make you holyand the power of the Spirit sustain youuntil the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia!1 Thessalonians 5:16–24

Prepare the way of the Lord! Amen.Isaiah 40:3; Mark 1:3

December 10, 2017Second Sunday of AdventColor: Purple or Blue

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 40:1–11 Comfort my people; a voice cries: prepare the way of the Lord!

Psalm 85:1–2, 8–13 God will speak peace; faithfulness and righteousness will meet.2 Peter 3:8–15a God is patient with us, but the day of the Lord is coming. Mark 1:1–8 In the wilderness, John baptizes and proclaims the one to come.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

May accompany the lighting of Advent candlesJesus says: I am coming soon. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!God has promised us a new creationwhere righteousness will be at home. Let us worship God.



At the baptismal font: The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the hope and longing you instill in usthrough the promise of our baptism—a voice crying out in the wilderness,a messenger to prepare the way,the day of redemption drawing near.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,keep us awake and make us readyfor the coming of your glorious realmof righteousness, justice, and peace;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin.God our Maker, we confessthat we are not ready to meet you. You call us to repent,but we turn away from you.You wait patiently for us,but we fail to watch and wait for you. Forgive us, God of grace. Embrace us with tender mercyso that we may be at one with youwhen all your glory is revealed; through Jesus Christ our Lord.



— Word —



SCRIPTURE

Before the readings:

A voice is crying in the wilderness:Listen to the word of the Lord. Mark 1:3; John 1:23


SERMON






Watching and waiting for the coming of Christ, we pray for the promise of a new creation,saying: Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for the church . . . May we hear the word your messengers speak,so that we can change our hearts and actionsand live holy and faithful lives.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for the world . . .

Speak peace to your peopleso that we might become your peace.Don’t let us return to foolish ways.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for this community . . .May your steadfast love and truth meet in this placeand righteousness and peace embrace in our streets,so that all in our community will flourish.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you.With expectation, we pray for loved ones . . . As you know the needs and hopes of each person, bring comfort to all who are mourning or anxious. Let us hear the compassionate words you speak.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. God our hope, as the promised day approaches, fill us with the joy of your Holy Spiritand strengthen us to serve you faithfully; through Christ, who is coming to reign. Amen.

— Eucharist —





GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.

Blessed are you, O Lord our God:The grass withers and the flower fades, but your word stands forever. You speak tenderly to your people, with tidings of peace and comfort. Like a shepherd, you feed us and gather us in your arms. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Baptized by John, Jesus came to be our way in the wilderness, to wash us clean from the dust of death and the stain of sin, and to pour out the power of the Holy Spirit among us. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Help us to repent and live in peace with you and with one another, watching and praying for your new heavens and new earthwhere righteousness and justice will be at home. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:God our hope, we give you thanks

that you have given us this foretasteof the justice, righteousness, and peaceof your promised new creation. Strengthen us with this heavenly foodas we seek to serve your holy realm. Lead us to live in joyful expectation of the coming again in gloryof Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE



December 17, 2017Third Sunday of AdventColor: Purple or Blue

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 61:1–4, 8–11 The spirit of the Lord is upon me; I will rejoice in my Savior.

Psalm 126 When the Lord restored our fortunes, we shouted with joy.

or Luke 1:46b–55 My soul magnifies the Lord, who has done great things.1 Thessalonians 5:16–24 Rejoice, pray give thanks; may God keep you until Christ’s coming. John 1:6–8, 19–28 John came to testify to the light, so that all might believe.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

May accompany the lighting of Advent candlesJesus says: I am coming soon. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!The Spirit of the Lord is upon me;God sends good news to the oppressed. Let us worship God.



At the baptismal font: The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the hope and longing you instill in usthrough the promise of our baptism—a voice crying out in the wilderness,a messenger to prepare the way,the day of redemption drawing near.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,keep us awake and make us readyfor the coming of your glorious realm

of righteousness, justice, and peace;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin.God our Maker, we confessthat we are not ready to meet you. You send your Spirit to release us,yet we remain captivated by sin.You stand among us in Christ Jesus,yet we claim we do not know you.Forgive us, God of grace. Make us holy; make us whole.Keep us safe and sound until the day of your coming; through Jesus Christ our Lord.



— Word —



SCRIPTURE

Before the readings: A voice is crying in the wilderness:Listen to the word of the Lord. Mark 1:3; John 1:23


SERMON






Watching and waiting for the coming of Christ, we pray for the promise of a new creation,saying: Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for the church . . .Anoint us with the gift of your Spirit that we may feed the hungryand proclaim good news to the poor.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you.

With expectation, we pray for the world . . .Use us in your work to heal the brokenhearted,grant freedom to those who are held captive,and bring liberation to those who are in prison.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for this community . . .Be present in abandoned and forgotten neighborhoods,places where mourning overshadows joyand healthy food is hard to find. Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you.With expectation, we pray for loved ones . . .Remembering your commandment to love, we pray for our enemies and those who trouble us,as well as those whose presence in our lives brings us joy.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. God our hope, as the promised day approaches, fill us with the joy of your Holy Spiritand strengthen us to serve you faithfully; through Christ, who is coming to reign. Amen.

— Eucharist —





GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You are good news to the oppressed, healing for the brokenhearted, freedom to the captive, and comfort for those who mourn.Now the time has come at last to proclaim the year of your favor. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Jesus Christ is the true light that the prophets foretold. He has come into the world to enlighten everyone so that we might testify to your saving power and love. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Teach us to rejoice and give thanks always, to pray without ceasing, to follow the Spirit, heed the prophets, and hold fast to what is good, so that we may be holy and whole at the coming of our Lord. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:

God our hope, we give you thanks that you have given us this foretasteof the justice, righteousness, and peaceof your promised new creation. Strengthen us with this heavenly foodas we seek to serve your holy realm. Lead us to live in joyful expectation of the coming again in gloryof Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE



December 24, 2017Fourth Sunday of AdventColor: Purple or Blue

Lectionary Readings2 Samuel 7:1–11, 16 The Lord will build a house for David and his descendants.

Luke 1:46b–55 My soul magnifies the Lord, who has done great things.

or Psalm 89:1–4, 19–26 I will sing of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness to David. Romans 16:25–27 Glory to God for the mystery now revealed to all peoples!Luke 1:26–38 The angel Gabriel appears to Mary; her child will be God’s Son.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

May accompany the lighting of Advent candlesJesus says: I am coming soon. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!The mystery of the ages is now revealed. To God be the glory forever! Amen. Let us worship God.



At the baptismal font: The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the hope and longing you instill in usthrough the promise of our baptism—a voice crying out in the wilderness,a messenger to prepare the way,the day of redemption drawing near.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,keep us awake and make us readyfor the coming of your glorious realm

of righteousness, justice, and peace;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin.God our Maker, we confessthat we are not ready to meet you. You offer us a place in your house,yet we find no room for you in our lives.You invite us into your eternal realm,yet we fail to welcome others. Forgive us, God of grace. Let your word of life be with usso that we may truly believe that nothing is impossible with you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.



— Word —



SCRIPTURE

Before the readings: A voice is crying in the wilderness:Listen to the word of the Lord. Mark 1:3; John 1:23


SERMON






Watching and waiting for the coming of Christ, we pray for the promise of a new creation,saying: Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for the church . . . Fill our mouths with the song of your unending love.May we never stop proclaiming your faithfulnessfrom one generation to another.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you.

With expectation, we pray for the world . . .Come and dwell among all the people of the world.As you made your home with your people in ancient times,make your home among us now.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. With expectation, we pray for this community . . . By your power at work in us, use us to bring healing and freedom, liberation and comfort,and to share the good news that you walk in our streets.Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you.With expectation, we pray for loved ones . . . Remember those who are hurting or searching. Even when they feel that all is losthold their desires and dreams in your heart. Come quickly, Lord; our hope is in you. God our hope, as the promised day approaches, fill us with the joy of your Holy Spiritand strengthen us to serve you faithfully; through Christ, who is coming to reign. Amen.

— Eucharist —





GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:Since the time when you brought your people Israel out of Egypt, you have been our shepherd, leading us and traveling among us. Now, as you promised, you have established for us an eternal home. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Born in a humble home, to a virgin named Mary, Jesus came to rule over the house of Jacob forever;for with you, O God, nothing is impossible. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Strengthen us by the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ so that we may be obedient to your commandments and proclaim the mystery of our faith to all the nations. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:

God our hope, we give you thanks that you have given us this foretasteof the justice, righteousness, and peaceof your promised new creation. Strengthen us with this heavenly foodas we seek to serve your holy realm. Lead us to live in joyful expectation of the coming again in gloryof Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE



December 24, 2017Nativity of the Lord / Christmas EveColors: White and Gold

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 9:2–7 Light shines on people in darkness; a child has been born for us.

Psalm 96 Sing a new song to the Lord, all the earth; declare God’s glory. Titus 2:11–14 The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all. Luke 2:1–14 (15–20) Jesus is born in Bethlehem; angels tell shepherds the good news.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

May accompany the lighting of Advent candlesThere is good news of great joy for all! Our Savior is born: the Messiah, the Lord. Light shines on those who live in darkness, for a child is born to us this night. Let us worship God.



At the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the wonder and love you offer usthrough the gift of our baptism—your Word made flesh among us,a child and Savior born to us,good news of great joy for all.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,let us be born anew from aboveso that we may give glory to youand live as your beloved children;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

CONFESSION AND PARDON

At the baptismal font:Like a great light in a land of deep darkness,the mercy of the Lord shines upon us. Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God our Savior, we confessthat we fail to live in your light. We pursue worldly passionsand revere false idols.We cherish our possessionsand spurn your good gifts. Forgive us, God of grace. Teach us to live as your people,following your holy wayand rejoicing in your saving love;through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the promise of the Lord:See, your salvation has come!You are a holy people, redeemed by God,sought out, not forsaken. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God.

— Word —


At the lectern or pulpit: Gracious God, by the gift of your Holy Spiritshow us the Word made flesh—good news of great joy for all—so that we may sing with the angels:glory in the highest and peace on earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

SCRIPTURE

Before the readings: Treasure these wordsand ponder them in your heart. Luke 2:19

After the readings: And the Word became fleshand lived among us.Thanks be to God. John 1:14

SERMON

ASCRIPTION OF PRAISE After the sermon: Glory to God in the highestand peace to God’s people on earth! Amen. Luke 2:14



Season of (Advent and) ChristmasThe one sufficient revelation of God is Jesus Christ, the Word of God incarnate, to whom the Holy Spirit bears unique and authoritative witness through the Holy Scriptures, which are received and obeyed as the word of God written. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.27


Rejoicing in the gift of Jesus Christ our Savior,we pray for this world that God so loves, saying: Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the church . . .For the astounding and joyful news of Jesus’ birth,we give you thanks and sing with the angels:Glory to God in heaven and peace to all the earth!Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the world . . . We pray for peace where there is no peace. We pray for wisdom where foolishness now reigns.As we claim the name of Christ, may we witness to your glory.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for this community . . .

Fill the shadowy places with your light.Let a joyful song of love be sung in every place,so that your beauty and strength may be praised.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for loved ones . . . We give thanks for those you have given to us to love.As Mary pondered the wondrous events of her day,may we, deep in our hearts, hold the wonder of your love.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. Holy One, as you have come to dwell among us,show us how to live as your faithful people,sharing the good news of your grace with all; through Christ, your Word made flesh. Amen.

— Eucharist —


At the communion table: From the fullness of Godwe have all received grace upon grace.Let us offer our lives to the Lord. John 1:16



GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You keep watch over us, day and night, protecting us from enemies.By your grace we enjoy our daily bread, and the fruit of our labor.We are your holy people—redeemed, sought out, and not forsaken. Therefore we praise you, joining the song

of the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Born in a stable, he is our good shepherd, and your holy Lamb. Lying in a manger, he is the bread of life, food for our souls.Praised by the heavenly host, he is the hope and joy of all the earth. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Continue to lead us through the waters of renewal and rebirth,bathed in the blessing of your Holy Spirit and the grace of Jesus Christ,so that we may be heirs of your promise of everlasting life. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:God of shepherds and sheep,we give you thanksthat you have gathered us here,revealed to us your glory,and fed us with your mercy.Now send us out with good news for all—

for us a child is born:Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE

At the doors of the church:The loving kindness of the Lord our God, the grace of Jesus Christ our Savior,and the renewing power of the Holy Spiritbe with you all. Alleluia!Titus 3:4–7

Go and tell this good news of great joy:to us a Savior is born. Amen.Luke 2:10–11

December 25, 2017Nativity of the Lord / Christmas Day (Dawn)Colors: White and Gold

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 62:6–12 Salvation comes; Jerusalem is restored; the people are redeemed.

Psalm 97 The Lord reigns over all the earth; light dawns for the righteous. Titus 3:4–7 We are justified by the grace of Christ, reborn in the Holy Spirit. Luke 2:(1–7) 8–20 To you is born this day a Savior, the Messiah, the Lord.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

May accompany the lighting of Advent candlesThere is good news of great joy for all! Our Savior is born: the Messiah, the Lord. The grace of God has come to us;Jesus Christ brings salvation to all. Let us worship God.





At the baptismal font:Like a great light in a land of deep darkness,the mercy of the Lord shines upon us. Isaiah 9:2

Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God our Savior, we confessthat we fail to live in your light. When you come to us with grace,we say there is no room for you.When you shine on us with glory,we turn away in fear. Forgive us, God of grace. Pour out the blessing of your Spirit,so that, justified by your grace,we may receive everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the promise of the Lord:See, your salvation has come!You are a holy people, redeemed by God,sought out, not forsaken. Isaiah 62:11–12


— Word —



SCRIPTURE

Before the readings: Treasure these wordsand ponder them in your heart.

Luke 2:19


SERMON






Rejoicing in the gift of Jesus Christ our Savior,we pray for this world that God so loves, saying: Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the church . . .For the astounding and joyful news of Jesus’ birth,we give you thanks and sing with the angels:Glory to God in heaven and peace to all the earth!Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the world . . . We pray for peace where there is no peace. We pray for wisdom where foolishness now reigns.As we claim the name of Christ, may we witness to your glory.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer.

With gratitude for your love, we pray for this community . . .Fill the shadowy places with your light.Let a joyful song of love be sung in every place,so that your beauty and strength may be praised.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for loved ones . . . We give thanks for those you have given to us to love.As Mary pondered the wondrous events of her day,may we, deep in our hearts, hold the wonder of your love.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. Holy One, as you have come to dwell among us,show us how to live as your faithful people,sharing the good news of your grace with all; through Christ, your Word made flesh. Amen.

— Eucharist —





GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You keep watch over us, day and night, protecting us from enemies.By your grace we enjoy our daily bread, and the fruit of our labor.We are your holy people—redeemed, sought out, and not forsaken.

Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Born in a stable, he is our Good Shepherd, and your holy Lamb. Lying in a manger, he is the bread of life, food for our souls.Praised by the heavenly host, he is the hope and joy of all the earth. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Continue to lead us through the waters of renewal and rebirth,bathed in the blessing of your Holy Spirit and the grace of Jesus Christ,so that we may be heirs of your promise of everlasting life. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:God of shepherds and sheep,we give you thanksthat you have gathered us here,revealed to us your glory,and fed us with your mercy.Now send us out

with good news for all—for us a child is born:Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE



December 25, 2017Nativity of the Lord / Christmas Day Colors: White and Gold

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 52:7–10 How beautiful is the messenger who brings good news and peace.

Psalm 98 Make a joyful noise to the Lord; give thanks for God’s victory. Hebrews 1:1–4 (5–12) Now God has spoken to us by a Son, the reflection of God’s glory.John 1:1–14 The Word of God became flesh and lived among us.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

May accompany the lighting of Advent candlesThere is good news of great joy for all! Our Savior is born: the Messiah, the Lord. The Word became flesh to live among us;now we have seen the glory of God. Let us worship God.






Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God our Savior, we confessthat we fail to live in your light. We speak when we ought to listen;we are silent when we ought to sing.We are consumed with vanityand work for things that perish. Forgive us, God of grace. Teach us to hate what is eviland to love what is right,so that we may find true joy in you;through Jesus Christ our Lord.



— Word —



SCRIPTURE



SERMON






Rejoicing in the gift of Jesus Christ our Savior,we pray for this world that God so loves, saying: Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the church . . .God of abounding hope, teach us to sing and shout,rejoicing with the mountains, roaring with the sea, clapping our hands with the rivers to praise your name!Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the world . . . God of overwhelming peace, send us forthto share the joy of your justice and the riches of your righteousness. Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for this community . . .

God of amazing joy, help us to proclaim in this and every generation, the good newsthat you have come to live in our neighborhood. Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for loved ones . . .God of astounding love, give us glad voices to sing of the wonderful things you have done,encouraging others with the promise of your living Word. Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. Holy One, as you have come to dwell among us,show us how to live as your faithful people,sharing the good news of your grace with all; through Christ, your Word made flesh. Amen.

— Eucharist —





GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:All the ends of the earth have seen your saving power, O Lord. From the ruined cities to the highest mountains, we sing your praise:How beautiful is the messenger of your peace, who brings salvation!

Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Jesus was with you in the beginning; through him all things came to be. Now he has come to live among us—your Word made flesh—and we have seen his glory, full of grace and truth.The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.As you have spoken to us through the prophets and apostles,continue to speak to us through your Son, Jesus Christ.Sustain us by your powerful Word, until we worship you in glory.Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:God of shepherds and sheep,we give you thanksthat you have gathered us here,revealed to us your glory,and fed us with your mercy.Now send us out

with good news for all—for us a child is born:Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE



December 31, 2017First Sunday after Christmas DayColors: White and Gold

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 61:10—62:3 The Lord will give you a new name; you will be a crown of beauty.

Psalm 148 Praise the Lord, all creation! God is exalted in heaven and earth. Galatians 4:4–7 Through the Son and the Spirit, we may call God Abba, Father. Luke 2:22–40 Jesus is presented in the temple; Simeon and Anna rejoice.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

There is good news of great joy for all! Our Savior is born: the Messiah, the Lord. Now we have seen the saving love of the Lord,the glory of God’s people and a light to all.Let us worship God.






Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God our Savior, we confessthat we fail to live in your light. You reveal your saving love,but we hide your love from others.You claim us as your children,but we do not claim you as our God.Forgive us, God of grace. Let your will be done in our livesso that we may live in peaceaccording to your word; through Jesus Christ our Lord.



— Word —



SCRIPTURE



SERMON




Season of (Advent and) ChristmasGod expressed love for all humankind through Israel, whom God chose to be a covenant people to serve him in love and faithfulness. When Israel was unfaithful, God disciplined the nation with judgment and maintained the covenant through prophets, priests, teachers, and true believers. These witnesses called all Israelites to a destiny in which they would serve God faithfully and become a light to the nations. The same witnesses proclaimed the coming of a new age, and a true servant of God in whom God’s purpose would be realized. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.18


Rejoicing in the gift of Jesus Christ our Savior,we pray for this world that God so loves, saying: Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the church . . .Help us to worship and praise you with sun, moon, and stars;wild animals and sea monsters; creatures that fly and creep—

all giving thanks together for your overflowing gifts of grace. Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the world . . .Bring peace and healing to the cities and countriesthat have been torn apart, again and again, by violence and despair.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for this community . . . Fill our lives with your compassion, that we may be an outpouring of love for all people, helping them to know how deeply you care for them. Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for loved ones . . . As we have received such grace from you,may we share that grace with others.Even in us, let them see your face and know your care. Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. Holy One, as you have come to dwell among us,show us how to live as your faithful people,sharing the good news of your grace with all; through Christ, your Word made flesh. Amen.

— Eucharist —




At the communion table: To you, O God of all glory,we offer the gifts of our livesas a way of bearing witnessto the gift of your Word made flesh.Use the humble things we offeras signs of your grace and truthso that all may know your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

John 1:7, 14

GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You cover us with saving power and love.Everything that is just and right comes from you. How can we keep from singing your praise? Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:In the coming of Jesus Christ our Lord our eyes have seen the dawning of salvation.Your glory, O God, is a light to the nations. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.By your Holy Spirit, speak to our heartsso that we may live as your beloved children,proclaiming the joy of redemption to all. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:God of shepherds and sheep,we give you thanksthat you have gathered us here,revealed to us your glory,and fed us with your mercy.Now send us out with good news for all—for us a child is born:Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE



January 6, 2018Epiphany of the LordColors: White and Gold

Lectionary ReadingsIsaiah 60:1–6 Arise, shine; your light has come; the glory of the Lord appears.

Psalm 72:1–7, 10–14 May the king reign forever and deliver the needy. Ephesians 3:1–12 An ancient mystery is revealed; Gentiles are fellow heirs in Christ.Matthew 2:1–12 Following a star, wise men visit Jesus and bring him gifts.

— Gathering —

OPENING SENTENCES

There is good news of great joy for all! Our Savior is born: the Messiah, the Lord. Tell the good news throughout the earth:the saving grace of Jesus Christ is for all.Let us worship God.






Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God our Savior, we confessthat we fail to live in your light. You have searched for us,and yet we hide from you. You have lavished us with blessing,and yet we treasure earthly things. Forgive us, God of grace. Let the mystery of your saving lovebe revealed, even in our lives, according to your eternal purpose;through Jesus Christ our Lord.



— Word —


At the lectern or pulpit: Holy One, giver of all light,lift up our hearts and minds to Christ,the morning star that never fades.By the light of your Holy Spiritreveal to us your saving Wordand lead us to offer our lives to youin service and in love;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

SCRIPTURE

Before the readings: Treasure these words

and ponder them in your heart. Luke 2:19


SERMON




Season of (Advent and) ChristmasGod expressed love for all humankind through Israel, whom God chose to be a covenant people to serve him in love and faithfulness. When Israel was unfaithful, God disciplined the nation with judgment and maintained the covenant through prophets, priests, teachers, and true believers. These witnesses called all Israelites to a destiny in which they would serve God faithfully and become a light to the nations. The same witnesses proclaimed the coming of a new age, and a true servant of God in whom God’s purpose would be realized. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.18


Rejoicing in the gift of Jesus Christ our Savior,we pray for this world that God so loves, saying: Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the church . . .

We pray that you would open our hearts to your gloryand transform us by your compassion,so that we may offer ourselves to those in need.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for the world . . .We pray that righteousness will flourishin your broken and beautiful world,and that peace will prosper in all times and places.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for this community . . . We pray especially for the children in our community.Give us the voice and courage to be their advocates,so that they will have what they need to grow and develop.Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. With gratitude for your love, we pray for loved ones . . .Help us all to welcome your grace in our lives, giving thanks for the immeasurable riches of Christand the goodness you shower down upon us. Emmanuel, God-with-us, hear our prayer. Holy One, as you have come to dwell among us,show us how to live as your faithful people,sharing the good news of your grace with all; through Christ, your Word made flesh. Amen.

— Eucharist —




At the communion table: To you, O God of all glory,we offer the gifts of our livesas a way of bearing witnessto the gift of your Word made flesh.Use the humble things we offeras signs of your grace and truthso that all may know your glory;

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. John 1:7, 14

GREAT THANKSGIVING

The Lord be with you. And also with you.Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:We look to you and we are radiant; we thrill and rejoice as nations come to your light and leaders welcome your dawning.You call us to arise, and shine, for your glory has risen upon us.Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:With the ancient Magi, we come to pay him homage;we give him the treasures of our hearts, our lives. As his star shines down upon us, we are overwhelmed with joy. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.By your Spirit, make us bold and confident in our faith,as you reveal to us the mystery of ages, your plan for the world—to bring all peoples to the knowledge of your grace in Jesus Christ. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung.

LORD’S PRAYER

BREAKING THE BREAD




At the communion table:We give you thanks, O God,for the gifts of this table—precious, prayerful, and poignant—like gold, frankincense, and myrrh.Lead us forth by your lightto share the gifts of your grace with all people everywhere,giving glory, honor, and praiseto Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

— Sending —


BLESSING AND CHARGE



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