The Congregations of St. Mark’s and St. David’s
United Church of Canada
Port Hawkesbury/Port Hastings, NS
Office: 625-2229, Fax 625-3597, e-mail: stmarksuc@gmail.com
Blog: http://ourcontactonline.blogspot.com/
Presbytery Website: inverguyunited.ca
Ministers: Whole People of God
Minister: Nan Corrigan D. M. Minister of Music: Al Fougere
Accompanist: Adam Cooke
December 25th, 2016-Christmas Day
Light of the World
(*All who are able may stand. In keeping with the simple informality of this service, we are invited to remain seated for most of the Carols)
Introit He is Born (Il est né) Refrain Fr, Eng VU 50
Call to Worship Isaiah 52:7-10
* Carol O Come, All Ye Faithful VU 60
Gathering PrayerGod of light, we thank you for giving us the gift of Jesus Christ. We come before you with wonder and delight that you come to us in the child born in a manger. Be with us on this day of birth and rebirth. Come, honor us with the presence of your gracious, joyful Spirit. Fill our weary hearts with renewed hope and joy. Rekindle in our souls the light of Christ. Glory to you in the highest, O God, glory in the highest! Amen.
Scripture Reading Hebrews 1:1-4 God has spoken to us by a Son
One: The witness of the early church. All: Thanks be to God.Carol Joy to the World VU 59
Gospel and Meditation John 1:1-4, 14, 16-17(During the gospel reading the Christ candles are lighted)One: This is Good News. All: Thanks be to God.
Blessing of the Christ CandlesSource of all Light, we celebrate today the coming of your Word made flesh, your Light of Life to dwell among us. Bless these holy flames that in their glow we may be blessed by your grace and abiding love. As these candles grace our tables and our homes today, let them remind us of your constant presence and your unwavering care. Bless us, that we might reflect the Light of Christ in our dailylives and in our world so desperate for the love, peace, hope and joy this day brings. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, the light of the world!
Response Go, Tell It on the Mountain VU 43
Prayers of the People(During this time you are invited to share a prayer, wish, joy or concern)
Offerings of Music
Pastoral Prayer
The Lord’s Prayer
Carol Angels We Have Heard on High VU 38
*CommissioningProclaim the good news. The Word of God dwells among us. The Light of God shines in the world. Sing praises. Shout for joy!Celebrate the hope and promise of this day. Go with the peace of God in your hearts.
*BenedictionAnd now may the glory and love of God surround you. May the peace and grace of Christ dwell deep within you. May the power and presence of the Holy Spirit uphold you.
*Carol Hark, the Herald Angels Sing VU 48
Light of the World: Service for Christmas Day was written by the Rev. Mark Suriano.
Adapted.
Copyright 2013 Local Church Ministries, Faith Formation Ministry Team, United Church of Christ, 700 Prospect Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115-1100. Permission granted to reproduce or adapt this material for use in services of worship or church education. All publishing rights reserved.
