We believe in God, the creator of all things, the giver of life and breath.
We believe in Jesus Christ, born Emmanuel, God with us, baptized and revealed the beloved Son of God.
He sought to heal humanity by taking our brokenness upon himself, suffering for us and dying for all our sakes.
God raised Jesus from the dead and in so doing, made it clear to all the world that God can and will make all things new.
We believe in the gift of the Holy Spirit, continually poured forth from God to refresh our souls.
It is the Holy Spirit who leads us into a new day, renewing our faith, transforming us in mission and revitalizing the church.
The Holy Spirit is our soul companion, the counselor of truth who reminds us of God’s ever-presence, and God’s promise of eternal life.
All thanks and praise to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, how very grateful we are for the opportunities the Christmas season offers to each and every one of us. We seem to change our perspective about a lot of things. Perhaps because we are looking around at colorful lights, eyeing lavish decorations that we notice things not noticed before. Are there actually more smiling faces in the madding crowd this year than last year? Dearest LORD, every year someone says they wish the feeling of Christmas would last the whole year through. Help us understand that the music of the spheres is all around us everyday, and choirs of angels would be very rusty if they only sang on Christmas Eve. There is not end to your LOVE. We carry your gift of the Christ child with us. Our hearts are warmed by his presence and our hopes and dreams brightened by his light. The smile of knowing can be worn on our faces all the year round, for we are a new creation, born the children of light in him. We give you thanks in Christ’s name. Amen.
THE OFFERING INVITATION
The gift giving frenzy is winding down for this year. Was their a favorite gift you gave to someone or received from someone this year? I received gifts that made me chuckle, gifts that warmed my heart and my innards, and gifts that brought an oh-so-grateful-tear of nostalgic remembrance to my eye. Did you ever think how each gift you receive holds within it the presence and essence of the giver. When I hold a gift or look at it, or use it or wear it, I see the face of the giver and smile. In the give of the Christ child is the presence and essence of the giver, who longs for everyone alive to receive him. Even better we can share the gift of the Christ anytime.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, these gifts are an act of worship as important as praying, singing and attending to your word. Ever seeking to discern your will and way for us, our hearts are full as we labor side by side with our brother and sister Christians. As you have entrusted us with much, we respond in kind, lending our hearts and hands to heal a broken and hurting world. Help us build ministries that glorify your name, empowering us to serve wholeheartedly in Christ’s name. Amen.
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