110
Lakeville United Church of Christ5687 Big Tree Road Lakeville, New York 14480 December 2, 2007 10:30 a.m. First Sunday of Advent God is Still Speaking, |
A Time for Gathering
Lighting the Advent Candle: First Sunday of Advent: Hope
One: Advent season reminds us that we live by hope.
Many: Hope in anticipation of the coming of the Messiah . . .
One: the promised one who comes from God to bring good news of salvation . . .
Many: the expected one who will establish justice for all who are in
need . . .
One: the liberator who will free us from our estrangement.
Many: For the Messiah will bring a new day for all God’s people. We
await the day of salvation, of justice and of liberation. We
await the new day where all people will proclaim God’s
goodness and will know the fulfillment of God’s will for all the
creation.
*Opening Hymn #264 (Brown) Crown Him with Many Crowns
*Call to Worship
One: Awaken to a season of anticipation
God is offering peace within and among us.
Many: How good it is to gather in God's house!
God draws us together for this time of worship.
One: God calls us to celebrate our diversity.
Differences shall no longer divide us.
Many: We want to see one another through God's eyes.
We will look for the good in our neighbors.
* Prayer: God of peace, whose ways are not our own and whose coming among us cannot be predicted, we dare to welcome your surprises, seeking to be awake and alert to fully embrace the unexpected, that we might be changed by your appearing and transformed into a peaceful, loving community, for the sake of your house. Amen
Our Prayers of Confession
*Call to Confession: Often we are reluctant to examine our intentions or our deeds. Let us delay no longer.
*Prayer of Confession: Eternal God, you have brought us to this moment. You know when we are jealous of others. You see how we seek self-gratification rather than the ways you intend for us. Our physical desires are more important to us than the spiritual hungers we suppress. Come among us now to turn us toward the paths where you want to lead us. Amen.
*Assurance of Pardon: The word of God comes to us for our instruction. The forgiveness of God prompts our thanksgiving.
*Gloria Patri (Brown Hymnal: back page)
A Time for Stewardship
Offertory Invitation: We are stewards of God's household, managers of the earth's treasures for a little while. Let us give generously of ourselves.
Presentation of Talent – Choirs of all ages
Children of All Ages
Presentation of our Treasure: The offering is collected at this time.
* Doxology
* Prayer of Dedication: Thank you, God, for the privilege of sharing your bounty with those in need. Thank you for prospering our work and witness. We seek to walk in your light and follow the pathways where you lead. We want to share the good news of salvation through these gifts and by the way we live. May all your people be made ready for Christ's coming. Amen.
A Time for Scripture and Consideration of God's Word
Scripture Reading: To be announced
Dialog Sermon: A humble dialog
A Time for Prayer
Sharing our Joys and Concerns
Pastoral Prayer, followed by the Lord’s Prayer (sins)
A Time for Communion
Hymn # 332 (Black) As We Gather at Your Table
Invitation to the Lord's Table and Communion Prayer
The Elements: The Bread of Life and the Cup of Salvation
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Commission and Blessing
*Hymn #492 (Black) I Would Be True
One: May we carry the peace of God wherever we go.
Let us share that peace with all whom we meet.
Many: For the sake of all people, we say, "peace be with you."
To all of the world, we promise, "We will seek your good.
Amen. Amen.
A Time to Depart
*Fellowship Circle Go Tell it on the Mountain
* Benediction
*Please stand in body or in spirit.
Bold print indicates Unison