Prelude
Gabriel’s Oboe (from 2019 service)
Welcome
Lighting of the Christ Candle
We give thanks for the light of hope—unrelenting and inexplicable.
Our hope in Christ shines on.
We give thanks for the light of peace—strong and unafraid.
The peace of Christ lights our way.
We give thanks for the light of joy—persistent and unpredictable.
The joy of Christ brightens our lives.
We give thanks for the light of love—hot and holy.
The love of Christ comforts and challenges.
Now let us light the Christ candle as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Thank you, God, for your light in this world through Jesus Christ.
The light shines in the darkness.
And the darkness has not overcome it.
Hymn No. 133 (recorded from 2019)
O Come, All Ye Faithful
Prayer of Confession
God of joy, we gather to celebrate the arrival of Love Incarnate here in our very midst. Your glorious arrival is enough to cause the forests to sing for joy, yet we still find reasons to complain and sigh. Your light of salvation is bright enough to illuminate every corner of our lives, yet we still find ourselves shrouded in worry and doubt. Your gift of Love is big enough for the whole world, yet we still find ourselves resentful that your love extends to those whom we deem unworthy. God, you invite us into the light of the stable where the overlooked and forgotten have gathered to celebrate the miracle of your love. Give us the strength and courage to join you at the manger. In Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Assurance of Forgiveness
Do not be afraid! Hear the good news of great joy for all people: a Savior has been born this night for you and all the world!
Thanks be to God! Amen.
Sung Response
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Time With Young Disciples
Hymn No. 114
Away in a Manger
Prayer of Illumination
Scripture Reading Luke 2:1-20
Homily Rev. Jeff Lehn
Bell Anthem
Joy to the World
Prayers for Christmas Eve and the Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
Call to Offering
Candle Lighting and Sharing the Light of Christ
Carol Medley
Benediction
Bell Postlude
Carol Medley arr. Christine Anderson
Worship Leaders:
Rev. Jeff Lehn, preaching
Rev. Laura Sherwood, pastoral liturgist
Ian Daugherty, oboe
Chancel Choir, carol medley
Rose and Will McGrath, hymn singers
Chancel Bells, bell anthem
Greg Korak, bell postlude
Lindley Traynor, time with young disciples
Children of FPCW, scripture reading
Peggy Massello, organ, piano and music leadership
Bulletin Image: Kate Cosgrove, "Nativity Three"
