Grace Lutheran Church

Transcription

1 First Sunday of Christmas December 30, :30 a.m. Grace Lutheran Church 313 S. Prospect Avenue, Champaign, IL (217) Pastor: Chris Repp

2 Welcome to Grace! We're glad you've joined us as we gather to be encountered by God in Word and Sacrament. We believe that God is at work here to create and sustain faith in God s promise of love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. We use a rich, traditional pattern of worship that dates back to the early days of Christianity. We recognize it comes with a bit of a learning curve, but we re convinced that it s worth the effort. Don t feel like you have to get everything the first time. We ll carry you until you get a feel for it. Helpful information for first-time visitors: Restrooms are in the hall to the left of the entrance, on the right opposite the elevator. Our staffed nursery for children 4 and younger is on the right past the restrooms. Clipboards with crayons and activity sheets are on a table in the Narthex (Lobby). Other activities for young children are in the pink and blue totes. Our pastor enjoys meeting visitors. Please introduce yourself. Please sign the Friendship Register located on the pew, next to the center aisle, and pass it to the person next to you during the Offering portion of the service. We provide Name Tags for frequent visitors as well as members. If you would like one, please contact our Office Assistant (office@gracelutherancu.org). Key to the order of service: Regular type: spoken by a leader Bold type: spoken by the people Regular Italics: sung or chanted by a leader Bold Italics: sung or chanted by the people Small Red Italics: liturgical directions indicates that the sign of the cross may be made ELW: Evangelical Lutheran Worship (Red Hymnal) As We Gather: On the first Sunday of Christmas we find the boy Samuel and the boy Jesus, both in the temple, both growing in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and humankind. We too have returned to the house of God to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God, who has gifted us with a savior. As the festival continues, let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. It is Christmas, still. Note: This bulletin is available electronically on the worship menu of the Grace web site. Large-print bulletins are available from the ushers.

3 Gathering Prelude The assembly stands. Confession and Forgiveness All may make the sign of the cross, the sign marked at baptism, as the pastor begins. Blessed be the holy Trinity, one God, who shines in glory, clothes us in compassion, and bears gifts of mercy for all. Amen. Let us confess our sins with confidence in God s promise of forgiveness. Silence is kept for reflection. God, wonderful counselor, we confess that we have turned from your gifts and chosen our own way. We have not made room for you in our hearts or in our world. We have lived in fear; we have not welcomed the stranger; we desire gifts that will not endure. Forgive us our sins, known and unknown, and open us to receive the peace of Jesus dwelling in and among us. Amen. God s lovingkindness has appeared to us in Christ our Savior. We are saved, not by anything we have done, but by God s mercy poured out on us richly. In the name of Jesus Christ, your sins are forgiven. Through the Spirit living in you, God give you faith to trust Jesus, who is Love born for you, now and always. Amen.

4 Gathering Hymn Angels, from the Realms of Glory ELW 275 Greeting The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. And also with you. Prayer of the Day Let us pray. Shine into our hearts the light of your wisdom, O God, and open our minds to the knowledge of your word, that in all things we may think and act according to your good will and may live continually in the light of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. The assembly is seated. Word First Reading 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 Having dedicated her son Samuel to God s service, Hannah visits him every year when she and her husband, Elkanah, come to the Lord s house to offer sacrifices. God grants Hannah more children, and Samuel himself gains favor in the sight of all. 18 Samuel was ministering before the LORD, a boy wearing a linen ephod. 19 His mother used to make for him a little robe and take it to him each year, when she went up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. 20 Then Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife, and say, May the LORD repay you with children by this woman for the gift that she made to the LORD ; and then they would return to their home. 26 Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favor with the LORD and with the people. Word of God, word of life. Thanks be to God. 2

5 Psalmody Psalm Hallelujah! Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise God in the heights. 2 Praise the LORD, all you angels; sing praise, all you hosts of heaven. 3 Praise the LORD, sun and moon; sing praise, all you shining stars. 4 Praise the LORD, heaven of heavens, and you waters above the heavens. 5 Let them praise the name of the LORD, who commanded, and they were created, 6 who made them stand fast forever and ever, giving them a law that shall not pass away. 7 Praise the LORD from the earth, you sea monsters and all deeps; 8 fire and hail, snow and fog, tempestuous wind, doing God s will; 9 mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars; 10 wild beasts and all cattle, creeping things and flying birds; 11 sovereigns of the earth and all peoples, princes and all rulers of the world; 12 young men and maidens, old and young together. 13 Let them praise the name of the LORD, whose name only is exalted, whose splendor is over earth and heaven. 14 The LORD has raised up strength for the people and praise for all faithful servants, the children of Israel, a people who are near the LORD. Hallelujah! R Second Reading Colossians 3:12-17 Just as newly baptized Christians in the early church were clothed with white robes upon arising from the baptismal waters, so all who have received God s gift of life in Jesus Christ are covered with the character of Christ. 12 As God s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 13 Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint 3

6 against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Word of God, word of life. Thanks be to God. The assembly stands. Gospel Acclamation Gospel Luke 2:41-52 Jesus grew up in a family that went to the Passover festival each year. It was in this environment of faithful adherence to the law that Jesus grew into spiritual maturity and an understanding of his identity and mission. The Holy Gospel, according to Luke, the 2 nd chapter. Glory to you, O Lord. 41 Now every year [Jesus ] parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. 43 When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. 44 Assuming that he was in the group of travelers, they went a day s journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. 45 When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 When his parents saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety. 49 He said to them, Why were you searching for me? 4

7 Did you not know that I must be in my Father s house? 50 But they did not understand what he said to them. 51 Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, O Christ. The assembly is seated. Children s Sermon Sermon Pastor Janet Lepp Pastor Janet Lepp The assembly stands. Hymn of the Day Good Christian Friends, Rejoice ELW 288 5

8 Nicene Creed With the whole church, let us confess our faith. 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, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary and became truly human. 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, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who 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. Prayers of Intercession Dwelling in the presence of God with us, let us boldly pray for the church, the world, and all in any need. Each petition concludes: Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great. The prayers conclude: Trusting in the presence of God by the power of the Holy Spirit, we commend all for whom we pray, dwelling in the light and hope of Christ, our Savior. Amen. 6

9 Peace The peace of Christ be with you always. And also with you. The people may greet one another with a sign of Christ s peace, and may say, Peace be with you, or similar words. After the Peace, the assembly is seated. Meal Offering An offering is gathered for the mission of the church, including the care of those in need. At this time, please fill out the Friendship Register and pass it to the person next to you if you have not already done so. When all have signed the Register, please return it to the center aisle for later collection. Offertory Star Shine Bright Ivanna Vipinraj, soloist Text: Star shine bright, guiding light, leading to the wondrous sight. Wise Men three, come to see Jesus in a manger. Star of heaven light the way, on this first of Christmas days. Shining star, from afar, leading to the Baby. J. Miller Silent night, holy night, all is calm and all is bright. Shepherds, we, come to see Jesus in a manger. In a stable, manger bed, baby Jesus lays his head. Faithful star, from afar, shine your light on Bethlehem tonight. Shine your light for all the world tonight. 7

10 The assembly stands as the offering is brought forward. Offering Prayer Let us pray. Holy God, your beauty shines forth from the manger and your love flows from the cross. As you gather us around these signs of your love come among us, warm us to extend your care among the hungry and all in need. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. Great Thanksgiving The Lord be with you. And also with you. Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise. It is indeed right, our duty and our joy, that we should at all times and in all places give thanks and praise to you, almighty and merciful God, through our Savior Jesus Christ. In the wonder and mystery of the Word made flesh you have opened the eyes of faith to a new and radiant vision of your glory, that, beholding the God made visible, we may be drawn to love the God whom we cannot see. And so, with all the choirs of angels, with the church on earth and the hosts of heaven, we praise your name and join their unending hymn: 8

11 THANKSGIVING AT THE TABLE Holy One, the beginning and the end, the giver of life: Blessed are you for the birth of creation. Blessed are you in the darkness and in the light. Blessed are you for your promise to your people. Blessed are you in the prophets hopes and dreams. Blessed are you for Mary s openness to your will. Blessed are you for your Son Jesus, the Word made flesh. 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 for the 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 for the remembrance of me. 9

12 Let us proclaim the mystery of faith: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. With this bread and cup we remember your Word dwelling among us, full of grace and truth. We remember our new birth in his death and resurrection. We look with hope for his coming. Come, Lord Jesus. Holy God, we long for your Spirit. Come among us. Bless this meal. May your Word take flesh in us. Awaken your people. Fill us with your light. Bring the gift of peace on earth. Come, Holy Spirit. All praise and glory are yours, Holy One of Israel, Word of God incarnate, Power of the Most High, one God, now and forever. Amen THE LORD S PRAYER Gathered into one by the Holy Spirit, let us pray as Jesus taught us. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen. The gifts of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God. The assembly is seated. 10

13 Communion We believe that Christ is truly present for us in the bread and wine of Holy Communion, forming us into his body for the sake of the world. We welcome to the Lord s table all baptized Christians. Those who are not baptized we invite to explore with us the Christian faith and consider baptism. Those who do not commune are invited to come forward to receive a blessing. Please hold this bulletin in your hands as a sign to the pastor that you would like a blessing. To receive communion, please join the line on your side of the aisle and proceed to the pastor. (Note: gluten-free, dairy-free, wheat-free wafers are available. Just ask the pastor.) To receive wine, take an empty glass from the acolyte and proceed to a deacon with a pouring chalice. (Pre-poured glasses of grape juice are also available from the acolytes). Place your used glass in the basket provided near the stairs on the side you leave. Please notify an usher if you need to have communion brought to you in your seat. Lamb of God Communion Hymns What Child Is This ELW 296 Once in Royal David's City ELW 269 The assembly stands. The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace. Amen. 11

14 Prayer After Communion Let us pray. God of wonder, in Jesus we behold the light of the world come near. As you have come among us now, send us out in joy, hastening to share the good news of your love. We ask this in the name of Jesus, through the Spirit dwelling among us now and forever. Amen. Sending Blessing The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord s face shine on you with grace and mercy. The Lord look upon you with favor and give you peace. Amen. Sending Hymn Go Tell It on the Mountain ELW 290 Announcements Dismissal Go in peace. Share the joy of Christ. Thanks be to God. Postlude 12

15 Worship Support The ministry of the church is carried out by all of its people, and Christian worship is a communal activity of the whole assembly. We give thanks to the following for their worship leadership and support today. Presiding Minister: Assisting Minister: Reader: Deacons: Acolytes: Pastor Janet Lepp Claire Vail Deborah Leckband Lois Wilken Vipin Samraj Adele Miller Walter Pankau Director of Youth and Congregational Life: Caitlyn Reinders Communications Specialist: Virginia Lehmann Office Assistant: Chris Alcorn Director of Music: Jon Arnold Organ: Elizabeth Mazurak Sound Technician: Kevin Vail Ushers: Dave & Carol Larson Greeters: Kim & Julie Johnson Counters: Paula Miller Virginia Lehmann Communion Bread: Susan Monte Nursery Coordinator: Paula Miller Nursery Assistants: Melissa Goldman Jillian Devine Coffee Hour: Becky Kasten Hymns and portions of the liturgy are reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, 2006, and from Sundays and Seasons, 2018, by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #SAS026105, and ONE LICENSE, License #A

16 Christmas Chancel Plants In appreciation to Grace Lutheran Church members who purchased poinsettias and Norfolk pines to beautify the sanctuary for the Christmas Eve service and Sundays afterward: Name Dave and Dena Bagger Ken Bengoechea & Nancy Johnson Sydney Bianchini Blanke Family Blanke Family Kathy and Van Bowersox JoEllen DeVilbiss Randy & Kathy Endsley Bev and George Kieffer Doug and Karen Krusa Carol and David Larson Marcia Licquia Rodney and Nancy Marshall Tim and Ann Marty Susan Monte Gloria and Brian Rainer Nancy Reinertsen Grace and William Schoedel Carol and Frank Shupp Frank Shupp Shirley and Art Traugott Kevin and Claire Vail Robin Vail Betty Wendland Dedication To the Glory of God To the Glory of God To the Glory of God In memory of Grandma Lois and Grandpa Bob In memory of Grandma Anne To the Glory of God In memory of Nona Clagett In memory of Lynn Cliggett Wilkins, Patricia Endsley, Virgil and Shirley Byers To the Glory of God To the Glory of God In memory of loved ones With thanks to God In memory of our parents and other family members Thanks be to God To the memories of loved ones In memory of Family Members In memory of David Reinertsen In celebration of our family To the Glory of God In celebration of our family To the glory of our newborn Savior To the Glory of God In memory of grandparents In memory and celebration of my family After the Christmas Eve service, you may take your poinsettia and/or Norfolk pine home which you purchased. If you wish to leave your plant at Grace for future Sundays you may do so. When you take your plant home, please use the bags provided to cover and protect your plant from the cold. Thank you.