December 23, 2012 Service

Enter to Worship, Depart to Serve

Our Mission:  "To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world."

WORDS OF WELCOME/ANNOUNCEMENTS

ORGAN PRELUDE

+ HYMN                     “People Look East”                          #202

+CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader:   In every heart there lies a Bethlehem,

People: A place where light shines with tender              memories,

Leader:   A place where angelic voices are clearer,

People: A place of wonder and awe, delight and          calm,

Leader:   A place where the humility of shepherds and the wisdom of Magi embrace.

People: In my heart, I prize my Bethlehem moments.Leader:   Come to Bethlehem, kneel in wonder,
People: Worship with songs of praise.

BELL CHOIR

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLE

      Bishop Family

CONGREGATIONAL RESPONSE (All Sing)

Light the Advent candle, four:  Think of joy forevermore; Christ Child in a stable born, gift of love that Christmas morn.  

Candle, candle, burning bright, shining in the cold winter night; candle, candle, burning bright, fill our hearts with Christmas light.

Time with Young Disciples

HYMN            “O Little Town of Bethlehem”                     #230

SCRIPTURES          Luke 2:1-7

MESSAGE

OFFERING

Let us offer ourselves and our gifts to God.  

+DOXOLOGY #95

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Amen.

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

+ HYMN         “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”               #211

+ SENDING FORTH WITH BLESSING

+ POSTLUDE

(+) Those who are able are invited to stand.      

Communion is available following the service where consecrated elements are distributed in the front of the sanctuary