UMH – United Methodist Hymnal
FWS – The Faith We Sing Hymnal
Prelude
Welcome
Sharing the Peace of Christ
Hymn Gloria Patri (UMH 71)
Call to Worship
Leader: Rejoice! The Lord is near!
People: Our hearts sing with joy for the coming of Christ.
Leader: The promise of God’s salvation fills us with delight.
People: We celebrate the good news of great joy for all people.
Leader: Let us lift our voices in praise and thanksgiving.
All: Our souls rejoice in the goodness of God! Amen.
Hymn Light the Advent Candle v. 1-3 (FWS 2090)
Lighting the Advent Wreath
Hymn Angels from the Realms of Glory (UMH 220)
Scripture Luke 2:8-20
Leader: The word of God for the people of God.
People: Thanks be to God.
Children’s Message
Hymn Away in a Manger (UMH 217)
Message Emmanuel
Hymn Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (UMH 240)
Confession
Savior, we confess that joy can be hard to find amid the burdens of life. We are quick to complain and slow to give thanks. Forgive us when we forget that joy is not dependent on our circumstances but rooted in your love. Restore to us the joy of your salvation and let our lives shine with gladness in your presence. Amen.
Giving Our Tithes and Offerings
Offertory
Doxology (UMH 94)
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Joyful God, your blessings overflow! In gratitude, we bring these gifts as an expression of our joy in you. Use them to bring laughter where there are tears and strength where there is struggle. We give joyfully because we have received your grace. Amen.
Prayers of the People
The Lord’s Prayer (UMH 895)
Hymn Angels We Have Heard on High (UMH 238)
Benediction
Postlude
