December Worship 2024

The Bells of Christmas – Nine Lessons & Carols – December 29, 2024

PRELUDE

PROCESSIONAL                   He Came Down                   Redeemer Choir

WELCOME AND GREETINGS

Please stand, if able.

OPENING CAROL              Once in Royal David’s City                ELW 269

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, whose steadfast love is everlasting.

C: Amen.

P: Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.

Silence is kept for reflection.

P: God-with-us,

C: we confess that we have turned away those seeking shelter, claiming there is no room when we have plenty.  We have made power and wealth our idols, while you show us true glory: a baby in a manger.  We have overlooked the shepherds, expecting good news in prettier packaging.  Too often, we have valued violence instead of your peace.  Turn us from our ways to your ways.  Grant us the grace to begin again.  Free us from all that keeps us bound, and forgive our sin, through Jesus Christ, who gives himself for us. Amen.

P: Hear the good news and rejoice! You are God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, forgiven in Christ, and freed to respond in joy.

C: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Beloved in Christ, at this Christmas-tide let it be our care and delight to hear again the message of the angels, and in heart and mind to go even unto Bethlehem and see this thing which is come to pass, and the Babe lying in a manger.

Therefore, let us read and mark in Holy Scripture the tale of the loving purposes of God from the first days of our disobedience unto the glorious Redemption brought us by this Holy Child.

But first, let us pray for the needs of the whole world; for peace on earth and goodwill among all his people; for unity and brotherhood within the Church he came to build, and especially in this our Synod.

And because this would rejoice his heart, let us remember, in his name, the poor and helpless, the cold, the hungry, and the oppressed; the sick and them that mourn, the lonely and the unloved, the aged and the little children; all those who know not the Lord Jesus, or who love him not, or who by sin have grieved his heart of love.

Lastly, let us remember before God all those who rejoice with us, but upon another shore, and in a greater light, that multitude which no man can number, whose hope was in the Word made flesh, and with whom in the Lord Jesus we are one for evermore.

These prayers and praises let us humbly offer up to the Throne of Heaven, in the words which Christ himself hath taught us:

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.  Amen.

Please be seated.

MEMORY MOMENT FOR HANS BARFELS

FIRST READING                                                                  Genesis 3: 8-19

CAROL                                O Thou Joyful Day                                  Sheet

SECOND READING                                                         Genesis 22: 15-18

CAROL                   Angels, from the Realms of Glory                 ELW 275

THIRD READING                                                                  Isaiah 9: 2, 6-7

SPECIAL MUSIC      O Young and Restless Prophet of Ancient Galilee David Lickfeldt                                     

FOURTH READING                                                                Isaiah 11: 1-9

CAROL                      Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming                     ELW 272

OFFERING/ANTHEM               Calypso Lullaby               Redeemer Choir

Please stand, if able.

OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create In Me a Clean Heart

OFFERING PRAYER

P: God with us: You came as a baby to a manger. You slept on straw and greeted shepherds. You come again in bread and wine. Remind us how good you are at blessing ordinary things. And then, through these gifts, help us to bless the lives of others in the strength of your holy name.

C: Amen.

APOSTLES’ CREED

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.   Amen.

Please be seated.

FIFTH READING                                                                    Luke 1: 26-38

CAROL                   Angels We Have Heard on High                     ELW 289

SIXTH READING                                                                         Luke 2: 1-7

CAROL                              What Child Is This                                ELW 296

SEVENTH READING                                                                Luke 2: 8-16

CAROL          While Shepherd’s Watched Their Flocks      SHEET MUSIC

EIGHTH READING                                                            Matthew 2: 1-12

CAROL                        We Three Kings of Orient Are                  WOV 646

NINTH READING                                                                   John 1: 1-14

CAROL                                 The First Noel                                  ELW 300

Please stand, if able.

BENEDICTION

P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

C: Choral Amen.

CAROL                     Hark! The Herald Angels Sing                     ELW 270

POSTLUDE                              Auld Lang Syne                    SHEET MUSIC

P: Go in peace. The Word of God dwells in you richly.

C: Thanks be to God.

December 25, 2024 – Christmas Day

As on the first day of creation, on this Christmas Day the Word illumines the world, shining forth to bring all things into being. Today we celebrate the incarnate Word, God becoming flesh to live among us in the person of Jesus Christ then and now. Emboldened by the good news of Christ’s birth, along with the shepherds, Mary and Joseph, and all witnesses to the light of Christ, we declare to the world that we have indeed seen and been transformed by the arrival of “the salvation of our God.” O come, let us adore!

PRELUDE

WELCOME

Please stand, if able.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

GREETING

P: Today, Christ is born:  Alleluia, Alleluia!  The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

C: And also with you.

CAROL                          O Little Town of Bethlehem                    ELW 279

P: In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

C: Amen.

P: Unto us a Child is born!

C: Unto us a Son is given.

P: And the government shall be upon his shoulder:

C: And his name shall be called wonderful counselor,

P: the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father;

C: the Prince of Peace.

P: Of the increase of His government and of peace,

C: there shall be no end!

P: Therefore we join angels to sing;

C: Glory to God in the highest.

P: Therefore we join in fervent prayer;

C: That there may be peace on earth.

P: Therefore we express our Christmas hope:

C: That we might show goodwill toward all.

SALUTATION AND PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: The Lord be with you.

C: And also with you.

P: All-powerful and unseen God, the coming of your light into our world has brightened weary hearts with peace. Call us out of darkness, and empower us to proclaim the birth of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

C: Amen.

Please be seated.

CAROL                          Go Tell It on the Mountain                    ELW 290

FIRST READING Isaiah 62: 6-12

The prophet invites the people to give God no rest until God reestablishes Jerusalem. In turn, they will receive names full of promise: Holy People, the Redeemed of the Lord, a City Not Forsaken.

 ⁶Upon your walls, O Jerusalem,
  I have posted sentinels;
 all day and all night

  they shall never be silent.
 You who remind the Lord,
  take no rest,
 ⁷and give him no rest
  until he establishes Jerusalem
  and makes it renowned throughout the earth.
 ⁸The Lord has sworn by his right hand
  and by his mighty arm:
 I will not again give your grain
  to be food for your enemies,
 and foreigners shall not drink the wine
  for which you have labored;
 ⁹but those who garner it shall eat it

  and praise the Lord,

 and those who gather it shall drink it
  in my holy courts.
 ¹⁰Go through, go through the gates,
  prepare the way for the people;
 build up, build up the highway,
  clear it of stones,
  lift up an ensign over the peoples.
 ¹¹The Lord has proclaimed
  to the end of the earth:
 Say to daughter Zion,
  “See, your salvation comes;
 his reward is with him,

  and his recompense before him.”
 ¹²They shall be called, “The Holy People,
  The Redeemed of the Lord“;
 and you shall be called, “Sought Out,
  A City Not Forsaken.”

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

SECOND READING                                Titus 3: 4-7

God saves us not because of what we do. Rather, God is a God of mercy and salvation who graciously cleanses us in baptism and renews our lives through the Holy Spirit.

⁴When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, ⁵he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. ⁶This Spirit he poured out on us

richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, ⁷so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

CAROL                                 Away in a Manger                            ELW 278

Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.

THE CHRISTMAS GOSPEL                                                     Luke 2:1-20

The world’s deep night is shattered by the light of God’s new day. The glory of God is revealed to poor shepherds, who share the good news with others.

¹In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. ²This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. ³All went to their own towns to be registered. ⁴Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. ⁵He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. ⁶While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. ⁷And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 

 ⁸In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: ¹¹to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹²This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” ¹³And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,

 ¹⁴“Glory to God in the highest heaven,

  and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”

  ¹⁵When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” ¹⁶So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. ¹⁷When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; ¹⁸and all who heard it were amazed at what the  shepherds  told  them. ¹⁹ But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

P: The Gospel of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

Please be seated.

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE                                             David Allman, Pastor

CAROL                            Angels We Heard on High                     ELW 289

Please stand, if able, for the Nicene Creed.       

NICENE CREED

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.  Through him all things were made.  For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and man was made.

For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.  On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son.  With the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified.  He has spoken through the prophets.  We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.  We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.  We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

Prayers on behalf of others.

Filled with good news of great joy, let us offer our prayers for the church, the earth, and all people.

A brief silence.

The church sings a new song for you, O God. By the water of rebirth, you claim us as your own. Renew all the baptized by your Spirit of grace and truth, and embolden us to announce your salvation to all. God of grace, receive our prayer.

The heavens and the earth are the work of your hands. By your Word, all things have come into being. Protect coastlands and waters. Awaken in us a heightened care for habitats threatened by rising sea levels. God of grace, receive our prayer.

Beautiful are the feet of your messengers who announce peace. Sustain the work of diplomats, relief agencies, and all who strive for peace in places of conflict and violence. God of grace, receive our prayer.

You guard the lives of your faithful ones and rescue them in times of distress. Heed the cries of all who are afraid. Comfort the grieving and despairing, the lonely and forgotten, and those who are ill. God of grace, receive our prayer.

Voices and instruments ring out with melodies of praise to you. Bless the music ministries of this congregation and all who lead us in making a joyful noise in worship. God of grace, receive our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

We give you thanks for our ancestors in faith. As their lives bear witness to your light and love, inspire us to testify to the hope we share in you. God of grace, receive our prayer.

We pray for those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, receive our prayer.

We pray that you keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us. God of grace, receive our prayer.

P: We commend these prayers to you, O God, trusting your grace made known to all, through the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

C: Amen.

OFFERING

OFFERING PRAYER

P: God of abundance, receive and bless these gifts we have offered. Join our hearts with the song of the angels, and gather us at your table of celebration. Strengthen us to share with all the world the abundance of your grace upon grace, poured out in Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh.

C: Amen.

The Meal

God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. The choir will receive Holy Communion first.  If you are unable to come to the altar for Holy Communion, please let an usher know and Holy Communion will be brought to you.

INVITATION TO COMMUNION            

Christ invites you to a place of honor at this banquet.  Welcome to the feast.  There are both wine and purple grape juice available.  Tell the Communion Assistant if you prefer juice. 

WORDS OF INSTITUTION

P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.       

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.  Amen.

Please be seated.

Communion will be distributed in a continuous fashion. 

P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.

C: Amen. 

SENDING OF COMMUNION

P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned.  May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.

C: Amen.

BENEDICTION

P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

C: Choral Amen.   

CAROL                    Good Christian Friends, Rejoice                  ELW 288

P: Go in peace. The Word of God dwells in you richly.

C: Thanks be to God.

Nativity of our Lord – Christmas Eve

December 24, 2024 – 7:00 PM

In winter’s deepest night, we welcome the light of the Christ child. Isaiah declares that the light of the long-promised king will illumine the world and bring endless peace and justice. Paul reminds us that the grace of God through Jesus Christ brings salvation to all people. The angels declare that Jesus’ birth is good and joyful news for everyone, including lowly shepherds. Filled with the light that shines in our lives, we go forth to share the light of Christ with the whole world.

PRELUDE                         

Please stand, if able, and join the choir and bells in singing O Come All Ye Faithful.

CAROL                          O Come All Ye Faithful                            ELW 283

Please be seated.

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY

The purpose of the Advent Candle Lighting Ceremony is to recapture the wonder of Christ’s coming and the joy of Christ’s presence.

MUSIC                              Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

P: Tonight, we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the source of our hope.

C: Let heaven and nature sing.

P: The Prince of Peace has come to dwell among and within us.

C: Let heaven and nature sing.

P: The source of our joy and our salvation is here.

C: Let heaven and nature sing.

P: The greatest gift of all, the gift of love, has been given.

C: Let heaven and nature sing.

Candle Lighting

As we gather on this sacred Christmas Eve, we light all the candles, including the center candle the Christ candle.  Together, these candles symbolize the Light of the World coming to dispel the darkness.  As we light this Christ candle, may its flame ignite the warmth of God’s love within us and spread the message of joy and salvation to all.

MUSIC                              Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

CHRISTMAS EVE PRAYER

Gracious Creator, we thank you for the love that brought Christ into our lives, for the hope his birth represents, and for the peace that his presence brings.  As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, may this Christ candle illuminate our hearts and minds, drawing us closer to you and to one another. In the name of the newborn King, we pray. Amen.

CHRISTMAS EVE POEM                                                            Doris Hahn

SPECIAL MUSIC                                                                      Ladies Choir

Were You There on that Christmas Night?

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song from the Old Testament, and the New Testament.

FIRST READING                                    Isaiah 9: 2-7

This poem promises deliverance from Assyrian oppression, a hope based on the birth of a royal child with a name full of promise. While Judah’s king will practice justice and righteousness, the real basis for faith lies in God’s passion for the people: The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this!

 ²The people who walked in darkness
  have seen a great light;
 those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
  on them light has shined.
 ³You have multiplied the nation,
  you have increased its joy;
 they rejoice before you
  as with joy at the harvest,
  as people exult when dividing plunder.
 ⁴For the yoke of their burden,
  and the bar across their shoulders,
  the rod of their oppressor,
  you have broken as on the day of Midian.
 ⁵For all the boots of the tramping warriors
  and all the garments rolled in blood
  shall be burned as fuel for the fire.

 ⁶For a child has been born for us,
  a son given to us;
 authority rests upon his shoulders;
  and he is named
 Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
  Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
 ⁷His authority shall grow continually,
  and there shall be endless peace

 for the throne of David and his kingdom.
  He will establish and uphold it
 with justice and with righteousness

  from this time onward and forevermore.
 The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

SECOND READING                                  Titus 2: 11-14

The appearance of God’s grace in Jesus Christ brings salvation for all humanity. Consequently, in the present we live wisely and justly while also anticipating the hope of our Savior’s final appearance.

¹¹The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, ¹²training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, ¹³while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. ¹⁴He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds. The reader concludes:

The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

SPECIAL MUSIC                 Breath of Heaven [Mary’s Song]                     Lynn Barrett

Please stand, if able, to welcome the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke, the second chapter.

GOSPEL                                                                                   Luke 2: 1-20

God’s greatest gift comes as a baby in a manger. Angels announce the “good news of great joy” and proclaim God’s blessing of peace.

¹In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. ²This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. ³All went to their own towns to be registered. ⁴Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. ⁵He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. ⁶While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. ⁷And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

  ⁸In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: ¹¹to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹²This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” ¹³And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,

 ¹⁴“Glory to God in the highest heaven,

  and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”

  ¹⁵When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” ¹⁶So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. ¹⁷When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; ¹⁸and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. ¹⁹But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

P: The Gospel of the Lord.

Please be seated.                                  

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE                                             David Allman, Pastor

CAROL                      It Came Upon the Midnight Clear               ELW 282

Please stand, if able, for the Nicene Creed.       

NICENE CREED

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.  Through him all things were made.  For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and man was made.

For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.  On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son.  With the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified.  He has spoken through the prophets.  We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.  We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.  We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

Prayers on behalf of others.

Filled with good news of great joy, let us offer our prayers for the church, the earth, and all people.

A brief silence.

Angels sing with praise, and shepherds run with haste. As we glorify and praise you in this place, send us into the world, proclaiming the salvation you have revealed this night. God of grace, receive our prayer.

The seas roar, and the trees of the forest sing for joy. As creation resounds with praise, inspire us with awe, reverence, and a renewed care for all that fills the fields, skies, and seas. God of grace, receive our prayer.

The nations declare your glory. Uphold the leaders of the earth with your justice and righteousness. Break the rod of the oppressor in every land, and bring peace where there is conflict. God of grace, receive our prayer.

The holy family finds shelter around the animals’ manger. Draw near to persons experiencing homelessness, those who are alone this holiday season, and all for whom this world makes no room. Wrap all your children in bands of love and mercy. God of grace, receive our prayer.

A child is born for us and light shines on the weary. Watch over those who give birth this night and attend to those who are dying. Be present in our joys and in our sorrows. God of grace, receive our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

The heavenly host praises you. With thanksgiving for Mary, Joseph, and all your saints, sustain us in the blessed hope revealed this night. Fashion us by their example into a people zealous for good deeds, sharing your love and mercy with all. God of grace, receive our prayer.

We pray for those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. God of grace, receive our prayer.

We pray that you keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us. God of grace, receive our prayer.

P: We commend these prayers to you, O God, trusting your grace made known to all, through the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

C: Amen.

Please be seated.

WORDS OF WELCOME                                              David Allman, Pastor

OFFERING/ANTHEM        Carry Me to Bethlehem          Redeemer Choir

Please stand, if able.

OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create in Me a Clean Heart

OFFERING PRAYER

P: Generous God, you have given us life, this community, and these gifts of the earth that become the meal of your grace. Move in our hearts, that we might use your gifts to bring hope and blessing wherever we go, through Christ our Lord.

C: Amen.

The Meal

God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion. The choir will receive Holy Communion first.  If you are unable to come to the altar for Holy Communion, please let an usher know and Holy Communion will be brought to you.

INVITATION TO COMMUNION              

Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you. There are both wine and purple grape juice available.  Tell the Communion Assistant if you prefer juice. 

WORDS OF INSTITUTION

P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.       

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.  Amen.

Please be seated.

Communion will be distributed in a continuous fashion.  The choir will start first.

DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNION– Lamb of God

COMMUNION CAROL             Away in a Manger                        ELW 277

Please stand, if able.

P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.

C: Amen.

The Ushers will be lighting candles before singing “Silent Night.”

CAROL                           Silent Night, Holy Night                            ELW 281

Please remain standing if able.

BENEDICTION (from the back of the church by the Pastor)

P: May Christ, who by his incarnation has filled us with grace and truth, give you peace this Christmas and always.  Almighty God, Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, bless you now and forever.

C: Amen.

CAROL                             Joy to the World                               ELW 267

P:  Christ is born!  Go tell it on the mountain and everywhere.

C: Thanks be to God.

December 22, 2024 – Fourth Sunday of Advent

Cradle and cross are inextricably connected on the fourth Sunday of Advent. Between a lovely tribute to the little town of Bethlehem and Mary’s magnificent song of praise, the letter to the Hebrews reminds us in no uncertain terms that Christ’s advent is for “the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” It is the kind of tension in which the church always lives as when in holy communion—with high delight—“we proclaim the Lord’s death.”

PRELUDE    

PROCESSIONAL                   Come Lord Jesus                 Redeemer Choir

GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

CALL TO WORSHIP              Soon and Very Soon            Redeemer Choir

Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, alive in the world, reviving creation, arriving soon.

C: Amen.

P: Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.

Silence is kept for reflection.

P: God of mercy,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We trust earthly powers and human authority alone. We grow fearful. We cling to false comforts.

P: God of might,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We have turned away from our neighbors. We have trusted false promises.

P: God in our midst,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We plead: come to us. Bring your mercy to birth in us.

P: A righteous branch springs forth: it is Christ the Lord, our Savior, in whom we have forgiveness, life, and mercy. By the power of the Holy Spirit, receive the grace and forgiveness of God through Christ Jesus, whose day draws near.

C: Amen.

GATHERING CAROL        Oh, Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel           LBW 34

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY

The purpose of the Advent Candle Lighting Ceremony is to recapture the wonder of Christ’s coming and the joy of Christ’s presence.

MUSIC                              Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

P: Love creates the bonds that provide us with deep meaningful relationships.

C: The greatest of all gifts is love.

P: Love inspires random acts of kindness and generosity.

C: The greatest of all gifts is love.

P: Love causes us to only look for the best in others.

C: The greatest of all gifts is love.

P: Love allows us to be accepted for who are, flaws and all.

C: The greatest of all gifts is love.

Candle Lighting

Today the fourth candle, the candle of Love, joins the candles of Hope, Peace, and Joy. Like the combined glow of many candles, let this season remind us of the strength found in unity as we come together to love and uplift one another.  Let the warmth of love illuminate the connections that bind us together and foster us in a deep sense of belonging.

MUSIC                              Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

ADVENT PRAYER

Gracious Creator, we gather in your presence today, hearts brimming with gratitude for the extraordinary gift of love you have bestowed upon us.  May the celebration of love extend beyond our immediate circles, creating ripples of compassion and unity in the world.  In recognizing the beauty of love, may we become vessels of your light, shining brightly for all to see. Amen.

MEMORY MOMENT FOR KURT NOLDEN

SPECIAL MUSIC           O Little Town of Bethlehem            Shari Fleming

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song

from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

FIRST READING                                                                   Michah 5:2-5a

The prophet Micah, having pronounced judgment upon Judah, speaks of a future shepherd-king who, like David, will come from the small town of Bethlehem. (Ephrathah refers to the area around Bethlehem.) This king will restore Israel and bring peace. New Testament writers understood this passage to be referring to Jesus.

 ² But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah,

  who are one of the little clans of Judah,
 from you shall come forth for me
  one who is to rule in Israel,
 whose origin is from of old,
  from ancient days.
 ³ Therefore he shall give them up until the time
  when she who is in labor has brought forth;
 then the rest of his kindred shall return
  to the people of Israel.
 ⁴ And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord,
  in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.
 And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great
  to the ends of the earth;
 ^5a and he shall be the one of peace.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

PSALM (responsively)                              Luke 1:46b-55

 ^46b My soul proclaims the greatness ^| of the Lord,
  ⁴⁷ my spirit rejoices in ^| God my Savior,
 ⁴⁸ for you, Lord, have looked with favor on your ^| lowly servant.
  From this day all generations will ^| call me blessed:
 ⁴⁹ you, the Almighty, have done great ^| things for me
  and holy ^| is your name.
 ⁵⁰ You have mercy on ^| those who fear you,
  from generation to ^| generation.
 ⁵¹ You have shown strength ^| with your arm
  and scattered the proud in ^| their conceit,
 ⁵² casting down the mighty ^| from their thrones
  and lifting ^| up the lowly.
 ⁵³ You have filled the hungry ^| with good things
  and sent the rich ^| away empty.
 ⁵⁴ You have come to the aid of your ^| servant Israel,
  to remember the prom- ^| ise of mercy,
 ⁵⁵ the promise made ^| to our forebears,
  to Abraham and his chil- ^| dren forever.

SECOND READING                                Hebrews 10:5-10

The author of Hebrews uses the image of religious sacrifice to convey the significance of Christ’s coming. Through obedient acceptance of God’s will, Christ allows his own body to become the greatest sacrifice of all, one through which we are made a holy people.

⁵ Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said,
 “Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired,
  but a body you have prepared for me;
 ⁶ in burnt offerings and sin offerings
  you have taken no pleasure.
 ⁷ Then I said, ‘See, God, I have come to do your will, O God’
  (in the scroll of the book it is written of me).”

⁸ When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), ⁹ then he added, “See, I have come to do your will.” He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. ¹⁰ And it is by God’s will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke, the first chapter.

GOSPEL                                                                                  Luke 1:39-55

Elizabeth, John’s mother, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, are two women filled with the Holy Spirit and with faith. In Elizabeth’s inspired greeting and Mary’s song of praise we hear of a saving God who remembers, scatters, lifts up, and fulfills all things.

³⁹ In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, ⁴⁰ where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. ⁴¹ When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit ⁴² and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. ⁴³ And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? ⁴⁴ For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. ⁴⁵ And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.”

  ⁴⁶ And Mary said,
 “My soul magnifies the Lord,
  ⁴⁷ and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
 ⁴⁸ for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
  Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
 ⁴⁹ for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
  and holy is his name.
 ⁵⁰ His mercy is for those who fear him
  from generation to generation.
 ⁵¹ He has shown strength with his arm;
  he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
 ⁵² He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
  and lifted up the lowly;
 ⁵³ he has filled the hungry with good things,
  and sent the rich away empty.
 ⁵⁴ He has helped his servant Israel,
  in remembrance of his mercy,
 ⁵⁵ according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
  to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

P: The Gospel of the Lord.

MESSAGE                                                                   David Allman, Pastor

CAROL OF THE DAY                      The First Noel                           ELW 300

APOSTLES’ CREED

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.   Amen.

OFFERING/ANTHEM         Emmanuel! God with Us       Redeemer Choir

Please join in singing the offertory response.

OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create in Me a Clean Heart

OFFERING PRAYER

P: Lord Jesus, our portion and our cup, you offered yourself in love for the world, and in this meal you nourish us with your life. Fill us with your abundance, that we may feed the hungry and welcome the stranger, trusting in your name.

C: Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

Prayers on behalf of others

As we prepare for Emmanuel, God-with-us, let us pray for all people and places that long for God’s presence.

A brief silence.

God our uniter, increase communication and cooperation in our relationships with those of other traditions and religions. Root your church in the radical message of your incarnation, and enable us to pursue your justice in the world. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God our creator, we praise you for the beauty that surrounds us. Awaken in us a renewed sense of care for the wildlife in our communities. Form us into faithful stewards of what you have made. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God our sovereign, Mary proclaims a new way of life that lifts up the lowly and fills the hungry with good things. Nurture in local governments and municipalities a desire to care for all who are overlooked and ignored. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God our beacon, as the northern hemisphere begins its slow turn toward more daylight, remind us that even in the deepest nights, you are there. Comfort the lonely and bereaved. Hold closely the frightened, anxious, depressed, and ill. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God our guide, shepherd the leadership of this congregation. Bless the council and staff in discerning future ministry and open their hearts to the voices of the community. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

God our life, you remember the promises you have made to your people. In gratitude for those who have died, we praise you for your faithfulness throughout history. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God our comforter, we pray that you remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God our protector, we pray that you watch over our first responders and military personnel and keep them safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

P: Savior of the nations, come, and receive these prayers and the pleas of our hearts, in the name of Jesus Christ.

Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.  Amen.

GRACE, LOVE, & FELLOWSHIP

BENEDICTION

P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

C: Choral Amen.

SENDING CAROL                 Once in Royal David’s City              ELW 269

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

P: Go in peace. Prepare the way for Emmanuel.

C: Thanks be to God.

December 15, 2024 – Third Sunday of Advent

Christ’s presence in our midst in the wonder of the holy supper is cause for singing. The nearness of the God in prayer, in every circumstance, is cause for rejoicing. The coming of one “more powerful” than John, even with a winnowing fork in hand, is good news—and cause for exultation—for us who are being saved. Great joy is the tone for the third Sunday of Advent.

*Please conclude all conversations when the music begins*

PRELUDE

PROCESSIONAL               Emmanuel, Emmanuel           Redeemer Choir

GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

CALL TO WORSHIP            Lift Up Your Heads to the Coming King                Redeemer Choir

Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, alive in the world, reviving creation, arriving soon.

C: Amen.

P: Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.

Silence is kept for reflection.

P: God of mercy,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We trust earthly powers and human authority alone.  We grow fearful. We cling to false comforts.

P: God of might,

C: we confess that we have sinned.  We have turned away from our neighbors.  We have trusted false promises.

P: God in our midst,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We plead: come to us. Bring your mercy to birth in us.

P: A righteous branch springs forth: it is Christ the Lord, our Savior, in whom we have forgiveness, life, and mercy. By the power of the Holy Spirit, receive the grace and forgiveness of God through Christ Jesus, whose day draws near.

C: Amen.

GATHERING CAROL               O Promised One of Israel                   sheet

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY

The purpose of the Advent Candle Lighting Ceremony is to recapture the wonder of Christ’s coming and the joy of Christ’s presence.

MUSIC                         Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

P: When we think of the countless blessings that fill our lives

C: Our hearts are filled with joy.

P: For the warmth of relationships and the bonds we share with family and friends

C: Our hearts are filled with joy.

P: When we pause to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature

C: Our hearts are filled with joy.

P: For the giving and receiving of simple acts of kindness

C: Our hearts are filled with joy.

MUSIC               Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

Candle Lighting

Today the candle representing Joy joins the candles of Hope and Peace. As we light this third candle, let the joy of the season fill our hearts.  May we find joy in simple moments, and may that joy bring a sense of peace and well being into our lives.

ADVENT PRAYER

Gracious Creator, teach us to find joy not only in triumphs but also in the simple moments of everyday grace.  Fill us with joy that surpasses circumstance, anchored in the unchanging truth of your love.  Help us share this joy with others and may joy and laughter be a constant companion on our journey through life. Amen.

SPECIAL MUSIC                    Mary Did You Know                    Sherri Knaub

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song

from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

FIRST READING                          Zephaniah 3:14-20

The prophet Zephaniah’s message is mostly one of judgment for sin. This reading, however, which comes from the conclusion of the book, prophesies joy for Judah and Jerusalem. Judgment has led to repentance, and God’s salvation is at hand.

 ¹⁴ Sing aloud, O daughter Zion;
  shout, O Israel!
 Rejoice and exult with all your heart,
  O daughter Jerusalem!
 ¹⁵ The Lord has taken away the judgments against you,
  he has turned away your enemies.
 The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst;
  you shall fear disaster no more.
 ¹⁶ On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem:
 Do not fear, O Zion;
  do not let your hands grow weak.
 ¹⁷ The Lord, your God, is in your midst,
  a warrior who gives victory;
 he will rejoice over you with gladness,
  he will renew you in his love;
 he will exult over you with loud singing
  ¹⁸ as on a day of festival.
 I will remove disaster from you,
  so that you will not bear reproach for it.
 ¹⁹ I will deal with all your oppressors
  at that time.
 And I will save the lame
  and gather the outcast,
 and I will change their shame into praise
  and renown in all the earth.
 ²⁰ At that time I will bring you home,
  at the time when I gather you;
 for I will make you renowned and praised
  among all the peoples of the earth,
 when I restore your fortunes
  before your eyes, says the Lord.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

PSALM (responsibly)                                   Psalm 12:2-6

 ² Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not ^| be afraid,
  for the Lord God is my strength and my might, and has become ^| my salvation.
 ³ With joy you ^| will draw water
  from the wells ^| of salvation.
 ⁴ And you will say in that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call ^| on God’s name;
  make known the deeds of the Lord among the nations; proclaim that this name ^| is exalted.
 ⁵ Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done ^| gloriously;
  let this be known in ^| all the earth.
 ⁶ Shout aloud and sing for joy, O ^| royal Zion,
  for great in your midst is the Holy ^| One of Israel.

SECOND READING                         Philippians 4:4-7

Despite being in prison, Paul is remarkably upbeat as he writes this letter. Here, he urges his friends in Philippi to trust God with all their worries and concerns with the hope that they will experience God’s joy and peace.

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. ⁵ Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. ⁶ Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke, the third chapter.

GOSPEL                                      Luke 3:7-18

John the Baptist heralds the mighty one who is coming. John teaches that preparation for God’s reign is not a matter of identity but of bearing fruits of merciful justice, radical generosity, and vocational integrity.

⁷ John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? ⁸ Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. ⁹ Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”

  ¹⁰ And the crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” ¹¹ In reply he said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.” ¹² Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” ¹³ He said to them, “Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.” ¹⁴ Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.”

  ¹⁵ As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, ¹⁶ John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. ¹⁷ His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”

  ¹⁸ So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.

P: The Gospel of the Lord.

MESSAGE                                 David Allman, Pastor

CAROL OF THE DAY         Wild and Lone the Prophet’s Voice            Sheet

APOSTLES’ CREED

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.   Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

Prayers on behalf of others

As we prepare for Emmanuel, God-with-us, let us pray for all people and places that long for God’s presence.

A brief silence.

God who reforms, fill your church with courage to do your will. Empower your people in taking risks that bear fruit. Raise up leaders who will proclaim the good news. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God who creates, you hold in balance diverse ecosystems. Encourage efforts to protect wild lands from devastation. Care for animals and people in the path of destructive fires, storms, and other disasters. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God who leads, this world cries out for true justice. Guide legislatures, judges, and lawyers in actions steeped in love and restoration. Increase the desire to advocate for all who are confronted with discrimination and oppression based on race, gender, sexuality, class, or age. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God who embraces, help us notice the places where your people are hurting or sick. Show your compassion and remember your people in love. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God who abides, you dwell among the people of this congregation. Deepen our relationships with one another, and make us aware of the diverse talents and gifts present here. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

God who consoles, we thank you for the time we have had with loved ones who have died. Comfort us with the promise of everlasting life in you. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God who healing, we pray for those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God who protects, we pray that you keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.  Hear us, O God.  Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

P: Savior of the nations, come, and receive these prayers and the pleas of our hearts, in the name of Jesus Christ.

C: Amen.

OFFERING/ANTHEM          With Open Hearts We are Waiting          Redeemer Choir

OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create In Me a Clean Heart

OFFERING PRAYER

P: Creator God, you made the whole world, even the farthest stars, and you draw near to feed us. We praise you for these gifts of bread and wine. Strengthen us with this food that we may live in expectation for the advent of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

C: Amen.

The Meal

God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion.

INVITATION TO COMMUNION              

Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you.

WORDS OF INSTITUTION

P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom

come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day

our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.  Amen.

Please be seated.

DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNION– Lamb of God

Please stand, if able.

P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.

C: Amen.

SENDING OF COMMUNION

P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of

this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned.  May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.

C: Amen.

BENEDICTION

P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

C: Choral Amen.

SENDING CAROL                     Joy to the World                                                  ELW 248

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

P:  Go in peace. Prepare the way for Emmanuel.

C: Thanks be to God. 

December 8, 2024 – Second Sunday of Advent

Forerunners and messengers advance the advent of our God. While John the baptizer’s voice in the wilderness may be the principal focus of the day, Malachi’s prophecy could as easily herald the coming Christ as forerunner of the Lord of hosts. Finally all the baptized are called to participate in the sharing of the gospel. In so doing we prepare the way for the coming of Jesus and assist all people in capturing a vision of the “salvation of God.”

*Please conclude all conversations when the music begins*

PRELUDE    

PROCESSIONAL                   Come Lord Jesus                 Redeemer Choir

TEMPLE TALK                                                                   Carolyn Cole

GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

CALL TO WORSHIP            Enter in the Wilderness           Sherri Knaub

Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, alive in the world, reviving creation, arriving soon.

C: Amen.

P: Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.

Silence is kept for reflection.

P: God of mercy,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We trust earthly powers and human authority alone. We grow fearful. We cling to false comforts.

P: God of might,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We have turned away from our neighbors. We have trusted false promises.

P: God in our midst,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We plead: come to us. Bring your mercy to birth in us.

P: A righteous branch springs forth: it is Christ the Lord, our Savior, in whom we have forgiveness, life, and mercy. By the power of the Holy Spirit, receive the grace and forgiveness of God through Christ Jesus, whose day draws near.

C: Amen.

GATHERING CAROL          Prepare the Royal Highway                ELW 264

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY

The purpose of the Advent Candle Lighting Ceremony is to recapture the wonder of Christ’s coming and the joy of Christ’s presence.

MUSIC                         Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

P: In a world filled with conflict and confrontations

C: We humbly seek the gift of peace.

P: For the storms that sometimes rage within us

C: We humbly seek the gift of peace.

P: As we rush and hurry our way through busy lives

C: We humbly seek the gift of peace.

P: And for those around us we know are carrying heavy burdens

C: We humbly seek the gift of peace.

Candle Lighting

We continue our Advent journey today with the lighting of the Hope candle and the second candle, the candle of Peace.  Let the gentle glow of these candles symbolize the tranquility we seek in our hearts and homes, fostering a sense of peace that transcends the chaos of this world.

MUSIC                          Advents Holy Light                   Redeemer Choir

ADVENT PRAYER

Gracious Creator, in the quiet moments may we find solace in your presence, and in the noisy chaos of life may your peace prevail.  Calm the storms that rage within and around us.  May we be instruments of your peace, fostering understanding, compassion, and harmony in our hearts. Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song

from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

FIRST READING                          Malachi 3:1-4

God announces a covenant with Israel. A messenger like Malachi (his name means “my messenger”) will prepare the way for the coming of the Lord by purifying and refining God’s people, as silver and gold are refined.

¹ See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. ² But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?

  For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; ³ he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. ⁴ Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

PSALM (responsively)                       Luke 1:68-79

 ⁶⁸ Blessed are you, Lord, the ^| God of Israel,
  you have come to your people and ^| set them free.
 ⁶⁹ You have raised up for us a ^| mighty Savior,
  born of the house of your ^| servant David. 
 ⁷⁰ Through your holy prophets, you promised of old to save us ^| from our enemies,
  ⁷¹ from the hands of ^| all who hate us,
 ⁷² to show mercy ^| to our forebears,
  and to remember your ^| holy covenant.
 ⁷³ This was the oath you swore to our ^| father Abraham:
  ⁷⁴ to set us free from the hands of our ^| enemies,
 free to worship you ^| without fear,
  ⁷⁵ holy and righteous before you, all the days ^| of our life.
 ⁷⁶ And you, child, shall be called the prophet of ^| the Most High,
  for you will go before the Lord to pre- ^| pare the way,
 ⁷⁷ to give God’s people knowledge ^| of salvation
  by the forgiveness ^| of their sins.
 ⁷⁸ In the tender compassion ^| of our God
  the dawn from on high shall ^| break upon us,
 ⁷⁹ to shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shad- ^| ow of death,
  and to guide our feet into the ^| way of peace.

SECOND READING                             Philippians 1:3-11

The apostle Paul was the pastor of many new churches. He writes in this letter about his joy to be in partnership with the Christians of Philippi. Listen to how tender-hearted Paul, sometimes a stern preacher, is with his friends as he encourages them to grow in love and knowledge.

³ I thank my God every time I remember you, ⁴ constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, ⁵ because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. ⁶ I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. ⁷ It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart, for all of you share in God’s grace with me, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. ⁸ For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the compassion of Christ Jesus. ⁹ And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight ¹⁰ to help you to determine what is best, so that in the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, ¹¹ having produced the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke, the third chapter.

GOSPEL                                           Luke 3:1-6

John the Baptist is a herald of Jesus, whose way is prepared by “repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” As we hear the careful record of human leaders, we sense the spectrum of political and religious authority that will be challenged by this coming Lord.

¹ In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, ² during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. ³ He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, ⁴ as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah,

 “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
 ‘Prepare the way of the Lord,
  make his paths straight.
 ⁵ Every valley shall be filled,
  and every mountain and hill shall be made low,
 and the crooked shall be made straight,
  and the rough ways made smooth;
 ⁶ and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’ ”

P: The Gospel of the Lord.

MESSAGE                                                                   David Allman, Pastor

CAROL OF THE DAY        Jesus Came, the Heavens Adoring            sheet

APOSTLES’ CREED

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.   Amen.

OFFERING/ANTHEM         Prepare and Celebrate         Redeemer Choir

Please join in singing the offertory response.

OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create in Me a Clean Heart

OFFERING PRAYER

P: Lord Jesus, our portion and our cup, you offered yourself in love for the world, and in this meal you nourish us with your life. Fill us with your abundance, that we may feed the hungry and welcome the stranger, trusting in your name.

C: Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

Prayers on behalf of others

As we prepare for Emmanuel, God-with-us, let us pray for all people and places that long for God’s presence.

A brief silence.

Refining God, move through your church. Root out practices that harm your people, and kindle a fire for sharing the gospel among bishops, pastors, deacons, and all the baptized. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Renewing God, transform your creation. Steer us from habits that harm what you have made, and guide us in practices that preserve and restore creatures and habitats. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Ruling God, teach the nations your ways. Strengthen organizations and communities that broker peace and care for refugees, immigrants, and all caught in the center of conflict. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Rescuing God, restore your people who are in any need. Heal all who are suffering. Provide comfort and strength, and nurture sustained wholeness for the future. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Reforming God, fill this congregation with your presence. Enrich our seasonal preparations, and bless the efforts by worship committees, music ensembles, staff, clergy, and lay leaders as they work in the weeks ahead. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

Reassuring God, we remember those who have died and rest in you. Guide us in deep gratitude for their life, and allow us to learn from their faithful witness. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Healing God, we pray that you remember those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Protecting God, we pray that you watch over our first responders and military personnel and keep them safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

P: Savior of the nations, come, and receive these prayers and the pleas of our hearts, in the name of Jesus Christ.

Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.  Amen.

GRACE, LOVE, & FELLOWSHIP

To be sung by the congregation

May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us.

May the Grace of Christ, our Savior, and the love of God, our Father and the fellowship of the Spirit be with us, forever and ever for evermore.  Amen.

BENEDICTION

P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

C: Choral Amen.

SENDING CAROL     On Jordan’s Ban the Baptist’s Cry            ELW 249

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

P: Go in peace. Prepare the way for Emmanuel.

C: Thanks be to God.

December 1, 2024 – First Sunday of Advent

Advent is about the “coming days.” God’s people have always lived in great expectation, but that expectation finds specific, repeated enunciation in the texts appointed for these four weeks. The ancients anticipated a “righteous Branch to spring up for David.” The Thessalonians awaited “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all the saints.” Jesus’ contemporaries hoped for the time “to stand before the Son of Man.” With them we eagerly await the coming days: another Christmas celebration, a second coming, and the advent of Christ in word and supper.

PRELUDE

PROCESSIONAL               Emmanuel, Emmanuel           Redeemer Choir

GREETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

CALL TO WORSHIP              I Wonder as I Wander                Lynn Barrett

Redeemer’s Mission is to Grow in Faith.

The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

P: Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, alive in the world, reviving creation, arriving soon.

C: Amen.

P: Let us confess our sin in the presence of God and of one another.

Silence is kept for reflection.

P: God of mercy,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We trust earthly powers and human authority alone.  We grow fearful. We cling to false comforts.

P: God of might,

C: we confess that we have sinned.  We have turned away from our neighbors.  We have trusted false promises.

P: God in our midst,

C: we confess that we have sinned. We plead: come to us. Bring your mercy to birth in us.

P: A righteous branch springs forth: it is Christ the Lord, our Savior, in whom we have forgiveness, life, and mercy. By the power of the Holy Spirit, receive the grace and forgiveness of God through Christ Jesus, whose day draws near.

C: Amen.

GATHERING CAROL           Rejoice, Rejoice Believers               ELW 244

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY

The purpose of the Advent Candle Lighting Ceremony is to recapture the wonder of Christ’s coming and the joy of Christ’s presence.

P: For those of us facing difficult challenges

C: Ignite our hearts with hope.

P: For the end of wars wreaking havoc and pain in our world

C: Ignite our hearts with hope.

P: For safety for those fleeing the tyranny of oppression

C: Ignite our hearts with hope.

P: For the light of forgiveness to shine in our hearts

C: Ignite our hearts with hope.

CANDLE LIGHTING

Our Advent journey begins today with the lighting of the first candle, the candle of Hope.  Like the flame of the candle, may hope be ignited in our hearts, reminding us that brighter days are ahead.

ADVENT PRAYER

Gracious Creator, in moments of uncertainty, we turn to you with hearts heavy but hopeful.  Grant us the strength to navigate challenges, the wisdom to see possibilities, and the courage to embrace the journey ahead.  May hope be our guiding light, leading us to a future filled with grace, love, and possibilities beyond our imagining. Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching and song

from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament.

FIRST READING                               Jeremiah 33:14-16

In the Old Testament, “righteousness” often has to do with being faithful in relationship. God acts righteously both in punishing Israel for its sin and in having mercy. In today’s reading, Jerusalem’s future name—“The Lord is our righteousness”—proclaims that God is even now working salvation for Israel.

¹⁴ The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. ¹⁵ In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. ¹⁶ In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: “The Lord is our righteousness.”

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

PSALM (read responsibly)                     Psalm 25:1-10

  ¹ To you, O Lord,
  I lift up my soul.
 ² My God, I put my trust in you; let me not be put to shame,
  nor let my enemies triumph over me.
 ³ Let none who look to you be put to shame;
  rather let those be put to shame who are treacherous.
 ⁴ Show me your ways, O Lord,
  and teach me your paths.
 ⁵ Lead me in your truth and teach me,
  for you are the God of my salvation; in you have I trusted all the day long.
 ⁶ Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love,
  for they are from everlasting.
 ⁷ Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions;
  remember me according to your steadfast love and for the sake of your goodness, O Lord.
 ⁸ You are gracious and upright, O Lord;
  therefore you teach sinners in your way.
 ⁹ You lead the lowly in justice
  and teach the lowly your way.
 ¹⁰ All your paths, O Lord, are steadfast love and faithfulness
  to those who keep your covenant and your testimonies.

SECOND READING                          1 Thessalonians 3:9-13

Upon Timothy’s report from the congregation at Thessalonica, Paul is exuberant with gratitude for them. In this passage from his letter, Paul voices overflowing thanks, joy, and blessings for the people of this growing church.

⁹ How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? ¹⁰ Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.

  ¹¹ Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. ¹² And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. ¹³ And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.

The reader concludes:  The Word of the Lord.

C: Thanks be to God.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION                 Celtic Alleluia                         ELW 174

P: The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke, the twenty first chapter.

GOSPEL                                                                               Luke 21:25-36

God will fulfill God’s purposes and, already, hidden signs of that fulfillment abound. On that great day there will be dismay, perplexity, confusion, and terror, but God’s people shall be given strength to stand boldly and receive God’s promised redemption.

[Jesus said:] ²⁵ “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. ²⁶ People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. ²⁷ Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. ²⁸ Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

  ²⁹ Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; ³⁰ as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. ³¹ So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. ³² Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. ³³ Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

  ³⁴ “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, ³⁵ like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. ³⁶ Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

P: The Gospel of the Lord.

MESSAGE                                                                   David Allman, Pastor

CAROL OF THE DAY                   Waken, O Sleeper                             Sheet

APOSTLES’ CREED

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.   Amen.

Redeemer’s Mission is to Love All People.

Prayers on behalf of others

As we prepare for Emmanuel, God-with-us, let us pray for all people and places that long for God’s presence.

A brief silence.

God of righteousness, your people live in hopeful expectation of your coming. Fill your church with renewed passion for our shared mission, and deepen our relationships with other Christians and other faith traditions in our local community and across the world. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God of the cosmos, all creation shows that your presence is near. Help us sense your goodness and love in the sun and moon, in sprouting leaves and bare branches, in the roaring sea and quiet breeze. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God of the nations, your reign extends over all principalities and powers. Give leaders and all in authority hearts for justice and peace. Encourage efforts to enact policies that benefit the common good. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God of change, you accompany us through life’s transitions. Be near to all who are changing jobs, moving, welcoming children, or facing the loss of loved ones. Sustain those who are ill or suffering. In times of change, remind us of your steadfast love. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God of community, your Spirit holds us together. Sustain our care for one another. Inspire us to seek new ways to live together and to embrace the diversity of thought and identity in our communities. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

God of memory, we give you thanks for faithful ones who have died. Tend to our grief and sorrow with renewed trust in your promise of abundant and eternal life. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God of healing, we pray for those of our congregation who may be suffering physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please bring healing, peace and comfort to all those that we name in our hearts and minds. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

God of all, we pray that you keep our first responders and military personnel safe, whether they are at home or overseas. Hold them in your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.  Hear us, O God.  Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.

P: Savior of the nations, come, and receive these prayers and the pleas of our hearts, in the name of Jesus Christ.

C: Amen.

OFFERING

Please join in singing the offertory response.

OFFERTORY RESPONSE – Create In Me a Clean Heart

OFFERING PRAYER

P: Creator God, you made the whole world, even the farthest stars, and you draw near to feed us. We praise you for these gifts of bread and wine. Strengthen us with this food that we may live in expectation for the advent of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

C: Amen.

The Meal

God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ. All baptized Christians are invited to receive Holy Communion.

INVITATION TO COMMUNION              

Speak to us, O Lord, in the breaking of the bread, and make us one with you.

WORDS OF INSTITUTION

P: In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this in remembrance of me.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom

come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day

our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.  Amen.

Please be seated.

P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace.

C: Amen.

SENDING OF COMMUNION

P: O God of tender compassion, as you healed the sick and welcomed the stranger, bless those who leave this assembly to share the gifts of

this table with our sisters and brothers who are sick, homebound, or imprisoned.  May they be sustained by the love and prayers of this community, and by the Bread of life that satisfies all hunger, Jesus Christ our Lord.

C: Amen.

BENEDICTION

P: The Lord bless us and keep us. The Lord make his face shine on us and be gracious to us. The Lord look on us with favor and give us peace. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

C: Choral Amen.

SENDING CAROL                   People, Look East                                              ELW 248

Redeemer’s Mission is to Proclaim Jesus Christ.

P:  Go in peace. Prepare the way for Emmanuel.

C: Thanks be to God.