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.”
He was baptized by John, and anointed the most beloved Son of God.
Jesus sought to heal humanity by taking our brokenness upon himself.
Suffering for us, he was crucified, died and was buried.
God raised him from the dead for our sake and for the sake of the whole world.
We believe he will come again, one day.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, who is poured out upon us refreshing our lives.
We believe in the church, the Body of Christ in the world.
The Spirit leads us ever onward, into a new day, and always toward the kingdom of God.
This Spirit is our soul companion, and counselor of truth,
speaking to us of the power of faith, the ever presence of God and the promise of eternal life.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Loving and ever-encouraging Lord, we call upon you to guide us as the new year begins and its 365 days unfold. With new leadership in our nation we are anticipating radical change in the new year to systems and ways we have come to depend on even though we may not fully understand them. We confess we are afraid we won’t be able to navigate the changes, weather them or afford them. Remind us daily, Gracious Lord, that we posses a resilient faith, able to move mountains. Let us not be quick to panic, but let us ponder the journey ahead with hopeful hearts. Like the wise men who saw the star and followed it, may we see your star leading us to something wonderful, new and hopeful. We are resolved to be able disciples of the Christ, marching to his drumbeat, choosing life over death and love over hate. All this we pray in his name. Amen.
INVITATION TO THE OFFERING
Epiphany, from the late Greek epiphaneia, means “manifestation, striking appearance.” The etymology dictionary also says that in Ancient Greece it was a festival held in commemoration of the appearance of a god at some particular place." When referring to Jesus the Christ the word refers to his being made manifest, displayed, shown off, as it were, in a particular place attested to by the visit of the star-following wise men. It was the day of his display, his appearance in a particular place, when foreign visitors, from a distant land made very public their belief that Jesus was the newborn king of the Jews. Certainly the gifts they brought were fit for a king. How could they have know that their gifts, in fact, saved the life of the child.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Wondrous and Eternal God, pour out your blessing upon these gifts and promises. We offer them with full and grateful hearts. We trust that you will always guide us to use them wisely, and always for the greater good. Proclaiming our belief that all things are possible with you, we offer ourselves in service, seeking always, in the name of the Christ, to do your work and will. Amen.
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