CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, on this day earth shall ring with the song your children sing to the Lord, Christ the King, born on earth to save us. He's the gift you gave us. The Christ child is you bright star, come to us, come for us, to shine in our hearts. He offers hope, not just for today, but with each new day, he is our chance to begin again. On this day, angels sing and with their song earth shall ring, praising Christ, heaven' King, born on earth to save us, peace and love he gave us. We hail his arrival and give thanks for the gift. We promise to treasure him always, keeping him close in our hearts. With him and in him we should never really be discouraged, because he promises to be our hope and our salvation now and forevermore. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
How many of you have been to the movies in the past month? How do you prepare for your entertainment? Do you take your own snacks? If not, do you bring enough money for admission and popcorn (ticket $7.50/person; snacks $12.00+)? It is likely, if you arrive at the theater without your wallet you won't get to see your movie. Now, how do you prepare for church? Do you check to see that you have your wallet? Do you check to see that there is more than a "couple of bucks" in it? You can, of course, get into church without your wallet, but it would be more honorable if you prepared to attend church in much the same way you prepare for a $30, $50, or $60 evening at the movies. The church requires your support -- not your tip-- whether you come twice a year or every Sunday.
OFFERTORY PRAYER
God bless these gifts to your service and create in us hearts to serve. Empower us to be the hands and feet of Jesus, working for the transformation of the world -- engaging one heart, renewing one soul, helping one person at a time. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
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