ORDER OF WORSHIP | DECEMBER 17, 2023 | 10:00 AM HYBRID SERVICE
We are committed to being an antiracist, anti-oppressive congregation. We celebrate people of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations. We honor our spiritual connection to the earth and all living things.
Before the service: You may light a candle for the joys and sorrows in your heart. Please respect those seeking silence.
Opening Welcome
David Hopkinson, Worship Associate
Announcements
Rev. Michelle Collins, Interim Minister
Prelude
“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”
Heidi Souza, piano
Opening Greeting
David Hopkinson
Come, come, whoever you are,
Whomever you love,
Whatever your image of the Holy,
Your presence here is a gift.
All are worthy, all are welcome.
Lighting the Chalice
David Hopkinson
We light this chalice
for the warmth of love;
for the light of truth;
for the energy of action;
and for the harmony of peace:
Peace in our hearts,
peace in our community,
and peace in our world.
Lighting the Advent Wreath
Rev. Michelle Collins
Call to Worship
Jessica O’Brien, Guest Worship Leader
Opening Hymn
STJ #1008 “When Our Heart Is in a Holy Place”
Explanation of the Source of the Pageant
Jessica O’Brien
Music
“The Birthday Party,” by Peter Mayer
John Chowning, guitar & vocals
Holiday Pageant
Sharing Our Gifts
Online Giving
Text-to-Give: 757-500-0688
In-Person Giving: Place offerings in the collection plates as they’re passed during the service.
This week’s offering will help our congregation pay down the mortgage for our beautiful building. We take these monthly mortgage collections in gratitude for the physical space that helps us gather, and in the spirit of lightening the financial load on future generations. If you have been inspired by the beauty of our buildings and you would like to support the well-being of our congregation far into the future, please give generously today to help pay down our mortgage debt. Thank you for your support.
Offertory Music
“Silver Bells,” by Jay Livingston & Ray Evans
Heidi Souza, piano
Meditation
Rev. Michelle Collins
Story & Homily
Rev. Michelle Collins
Closing Hymn
STJ #1059 “May Your Life Be As a Song
Extinguishing the Chalice
David Hopkinson
We extinguish this flame,
but not the light of truth,
the warmth of community,
or the fire of commitment.
These we carry in our hearts
until we are together again.
Benediction
Kate McGaw, Guest Worship Leader
SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal
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