Order of Worship: Christmas Eve
Bell Peal (Outdoor Service, 4 PM)
Prelude (Livestream, 5 PM) | Chiming of the Hour (5:30 PM)
Pouring of the Water
Call to Worship
The Word became flesh and dwelt among us,
full of grace and truth.
We have beheld his glory. Alleluia!
Glory to God in the highest,
and peace to God’s people on earth.
We worship Christ the new-born King. Alleluia!
Opening Hymn: "O Come, All Ye Faithful"
Advent Candle Verse: "O Holy Child of Bethlehem"
O holy child of Bethlehem, descend to us we pray;
cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today.
We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell;
O come to us; abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel!
Prayer for Illumination:
God of light,
through Christ, the Word made flesh,
help us to hear and understand your Word,
and, hearing, walk in it all our days.
In the name of Christ. Amen.
Hymn: "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Litany for Christmas (from the Book of Common Worship)
The grace of God has appeared,
bringing salvation to all.
Glory to God in the highest!
The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light.
Glory to God in the highest!
For a child has been born for us,
a Son has been given to us.
Glory to God in the highest!
He is Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Glory to God in the highest!
To us is born in the city of David
a Savior, the Messiah, the Lord.
Glory to God in the highest!
And the Word became flesh
and lived among us.
Glory to God in the highest!
After a brief silence, the leader concludes the litany:
Christ is born! Give him glory!
Christ has come down from heaven! Receive him!
Christ is now on earth! Exalt him!
O earth, sing to the Lord!
O you nations, praise him in joy,
for he has been glorified!
Amen.
Invitation to the Table
Great Prayer of 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.
Breaking of the Bread
Communion of the People
Candle Lighting
Closing Hymn: "Silent Night"
Benediction
Postlude: "Joy to the World", Michael Burkhardt