January 4, 2015 Epiphany Sunday "HIS STAR"

AN AFFIRMATION OF FAITH FOR ALL SEASONS
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 most
beloved Son of God; he sought to heal humanity by taking our brokenness upon himself,
suffering for us and dying for our sakes.
God raised Jesus from the dead and in so doing, God 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 lives.
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 and counselor of truth
reminding us of God’s ever-presence, and the promise of eternal life.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving God, on this Epiphany Sunday, like the Magi, we are aware that there are many ways in which you have sought to reveal your presence to us. The brilliant star was a message and an invitation to strangers from a distant land. You were inviting them to come and see salvation. The marvelous light hanging in that first-century-sky beckoned to all who longed for a sign that a new day was dawning. As we enter the new year, let us be alert to all the signs of your gracious presence. Let us confess hope, not despair; cause us to embrace trust, not skepticism. Help us comprehend the deeds we do in your name are gain for the well-being of the world as well as our own souls. Be with us as the year unfolds, guiding us into a future that will bring glory to your name and to the Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, we offer these gifts of thanksgiving and praise understanding that they are instruments of goodwill. May they light the way into our future as we work in and for your kingdom. May they be the light in someone’s darkness as we labor side by side lending our hearts and hands to heal a broken and hurting world. Help us, Gracious God as we continue to build ministries that glorify your name and empower us to serve wholeheartedly in Christ’s name. Amen.