December 25, 2016 CHRISTMAS

THEME: Names of Christmas - Jesus Christ
Characters: The Christ Child

Scripture:  Isaiah 9:2-7
9:2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness on them light has shined.

9:3 You 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.

9:4 For 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.

9:5 For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire.

9:6 For 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.

9:7 His 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.

8:30 AM Order of Service

The Gathering

Welcome

Prelude

Introduction: "Christ"
Good morning! On this Christmas Day, we are gathered as God's people to celebrate again what Christ's coming means to the world. We join with Christians all over the world who are celebrating today.

Scripture: Isaiah 9:6

For to us a child is born,  to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,  Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

The Light of Christ’s Advent

Hymn, #155 "Angels We Have Heard on High"                      ALL

Gathering the Advent Lights

          *Need four light bearers:

          *Need advent wreath candle lighter:

The Candles of Christmas
Today we relight the four candles and recall what the Good News means. Jesus Christ is the greatest gift, who makes all these other gifts possible. SO we light the Christ candle now as we think about what Christ's coming means to each one of us.

Prayer for the Coming of Christ

We thank you, God, for your gift of Jesus Christ to the entire world. We thank you that Christ's coming makes Hope, Peace, Love and Joy possible for every person in every nation. Encourage us to do our part to bring good will and peace to our families, our churches, our neighborhoods, and the world. Now let your Spirit put us in touch with you, the living God, through the words and music we hear today, in the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Hymn #143 "Joy to the World"                      ALL

Contemplating God’s Word

Scripture: Isaiah 9:2-7

Anthem: "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day"                     ALL

Children's Sermon 

Sermon/Meditation

Prayers of the People

We Share Our Joys & Concern

Prayer Hymn #148   "O Come, All Ye Faithful"                          sts. 1 & 4

Praying Together

The Lord’s Table

Invitation to the Table

Hymn of Communion #15          "Something About that Name"   sing twice

The Elder’s Prayer of Communion

Words of Institution

The Lord’s Supper

All are welcome to share at the Table.  Come forward using the center aisle.  As you partake of the bread and the cup you are welcome to place an offering in the wooden bowl in front of the table.  The offering you share supports the ministries and life of Christ’s church.

The Lord’s Prayer

Going Forth into the World

Hymn  #150  "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing"                         ALL

Challenge

Blessing
Children are welcome to come forward.
Leader: The light that was in one place at one time, is now in all places and all times,
People: For God has placed the light in us!
Leader: We go in peace!
People: Amen!