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Call to Worship and Lighting the Fourth Advent Candle
Linda Johnston
One: On a gentle Arizona winter breeze, a peaceful word is
whispered.
All: From the mountain tops, a triumphant Word rings out,
One: From the depths of the desert comes the roar of a mighty Word,
All: The birds sing out a joyous Word,
One: All of creation calls out the Word,
All: Jesus the Christ is born, Hallelujah.
Singing Our Faith ~ Go Tell It On the Mountain
Go, tell it on the mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere,
Go, tell it on the mountain,
That Jesus Christ is born.
While shepherds kept their watching
O'er silent flocks by night,
Behold throughout the heavens
There shone a Holy light. Chorus
The shepherds feared and trembled,
Then, lo! Above the Earth
Rang out the angel chorus
That hailed our Savior's birth. Chorus
Down in a lowly manger
Our humble Christ was born,
And brought us all salvation
That blessed Christmas morn. Chorus
Opening Prayer ~
One: Over the past four Sundays we, as Shadow Rock, lit our Advent candles. We light them again and remember the ways of hope, joy, awe, and love. When we are at our best, these qualities are brought to birth in, through, and among, all creation.
(Four candles lit)
On Wednesday, we lit our Christmas Eve candles. It was a time for memories, to wonder, and to give thanks. It was an
experience of quiet awakening to beauty that still lives on
through the strife of personal griefs and a challenging world.
This morning we come to light our candles one more time.
It is a friendly candle. It brings light and love as we celebrate
in the coolness of our Arizona winter.
It is a candle of understanding which drives away fear.
It is a candle of truth. It can lead us on unknown paths to
learn more about the mysteries of life.
All: Once upon a time a baby was born who taught us to love and understand one another.
And they called his name, Jesus.
(The Christmas Candle is lit)
The Lord's Prayer
Our Creator in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those
Who trespass against us.
Save us from the time of trial,
And deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
And the glory are yours
Now and forever.
Amen.
Celebrations For the Deep Goodness of Life
Led by Pastor Ken
This is our time to share the celebrations of our lives: birthdays, anniversaries, words of kindness and works of peace and justice.
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