We believe that God’s decision to be with us, in the person of Jesus, manifested God’s immeasurable love for humankind.
We abide in Jesus, the Beloved One,
whose name is written upon our hearts.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, who is at work whispering words of hope, peace, joy and love to ALL people.
We believe in the church, the living body of Christ in the world, to which we belong.
As members of the body, we are called to minister to all people in Jesus’ name
seeking transformation for ourselves, the church, and the world.
And so it begins. Amen
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Dear Lord, we have come into this sanctuary to worship you, to give thanks for your gift of love, and redemption remembered and cherished throughout the Advent and Christmas Season. Let us not be cowed by those who seek to paint our days with the paint brush of darkness and fill our hearts with fear and trepidation. Empower us to fill the air around us with joyful songs full of triumph and hope. Let our prayers resound through the ether like the voices of the angels, full of light, and glory, hope and goodwill, magnificent, majestic and clear. We confessed our faith in you O Lord, proclaiming Jesus as the priceless treasure residing in our hearts. Keep us ever mindful that his love is a treasure to be shared, offered, given away, openly and freely for the maximum benefit of all. Make us confident messengers of your kingdom come today! In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
OFFERING INVITATION
When you hear the words “Christmas gift(s)” what comes to mind, the tangible or the intangible? When you hear the word “gift” does your mind’s eye picture: a cherished object, a much beloved person, or maybe even a treasured talent? Do you think of sugar plums or packages swaddled in brightly colored wrapping paper topped with a crisp bow? Are your visuals big ticket items, like jewelry or vehicles? Does Christmas conjure Tiffany, Shreve’s, or Cartier; Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, or Saks; Home Depot, Lowe’s or Sears? Let us cherish the intangible gifts, delivered anywhere, any time, always on time, free of charge, whether we have been bad or good, naughty or nice — they are God’s gifts of grace, mercy, love and goodwill brought to life, made tangible for a time in the Christ child.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Wondrous and Eternal God, pour out your good blessing upon the gifts we offer on this Christmas Sunday. Singing and listening to the music that heralds the birth of the Christ-child, our we realize the true joy of Christmas. Our hearts are full and our spirits renewed. We offer ourselves once again in service to you seeking always to do your work and will. Amen.
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