Peachtree Road United Methodist Church

Transcription

1 Peachtree Road United Methodist Church December 15, 2013 Third Sunday of Advent Advent is a season of four weeks including four Sundays. Advent derives from the Latin adventus, which means coming. The season proclaims the comings of the Christ whose birth we prepare to celebrate once again, who comes continually in Word and Spirit, and whose return in final victory we anticipate. Each year Advent calls the community of faith to prepare for these comings. Purple and blue are the colors of this season symbolizing penitence, royalty and hope. - Adapted from the United Methodist Book of Worship, published by The United Methodist Publishing House, Nashville, Tennessee, Peachtree Road United Methodist Church 3180 Peachtree Road Northwest. Atlanta, Georgia www. prumc. org Main / Pastoral Care Emergency /

2 The Greeting Morning Worship December 15, :45 & 11:15 am the gathering Carillon Prelude Sally Westmoreland Prelude Es ist ein Ros entsprungen Johannes Brahms ( ) Praise and Thanksgiving At the sound of the bells, please prepare your hearts and minds for worship. The Choral Introit Charles Beaudrot (b. 1951) Comfort, comfort ye my people, speak ye peace, thus saith our God; comfort those who sit in darkness mourning neath their sorrows load. Speak ye to Jerusalem of the peace that waits for them; tell her that her sins I cover, and her warfare now is over. Johannes G. Olearius (1671) tr. Catherine Winkworth (1863) alt. At the Procession,* Hymn 211 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel Veni Emmanuel (stanzas one, two, six, and seven) Invocation* Affirmation of Faith* The Apostles Creed I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord: who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. Ritual of Christian Fellowship* ** The people are seated. Ministry of Music May my light shine Lynn Shaw Bailey and Becki Slagle Mayo May my light shine like the star of Bethlehem. May the world see God s love through me. May my light shine for my Jesus and my King. May I shine so others see. Star of wonder, star of light, shining down for all to see. Star of wonder, star of light, shine your light through me. Star of wonder, star of light, may I keep my eyes on you. Star of wonder, star of light, shine in all I do. The Covenant Choir (8:45 am) Margaret French and Rebecca Tomasetti, soloists Come to earth O tiny King Ruth Elaine Schram Come to earth O tiny King, take away our sadness, at your birth our hearts will sing filled with hope and gladness. Come to earth O tiny King, heaven s love descending at your birth our hearts will sing of our joy unending. Come to earth O tiny King, God among us dwelling, at your birth our hearts will sing your salvation telling. The Carol Choir (11:15 am)

3 The Lighting of The Advent Candle Veni Emmanuel Choir: O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. Leader: Rejoice. Give Thanks. The Holy one is near. People: We offer up our anxieties and fears, seeking God s peace. Leader: Along the journey, we need to rest, to get our bearings so that we might press on. People: We worship God who gives rest to the weary and increases the power of the weak. The Lighting of the Candle Leader: Let us pray: God of rest, grant us peace. People: May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds as we journey ever closer to the manger. Amen. People (all sing): rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. Sacrament of Christian Baptism Response: With God s help we will so order our lives after the example of Christ, that this child (these children), surrounded by steadfast love, may be established in the faith and confirmed and strengthened in the way that leads to life eternal. Prayer of Dedication Hymn Tune: Stuttgart Child of blessing, child of promise, baptized with the Spirit s sign; with this water God has sealed you unto love and grace divine. Children s Moments with the Minister Hymn 147 All Things Bright and Beautiful Royal Oak (stanza one) All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small, all things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made them all. Each little flower that opens, each little bird that sings, God made their glowing colors, and made their tiny wings. Refrain Reception of New Members (11:15 am) Response: We rejoice to recognize you as members of Christ s holy church and bid you welcome to this congregation of the United Methodist Church. With you we renew our vows to uphold it by our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Welcome to Peachtree Road. Parish Notes We welcome each of you to this service! Please register your attendance on the Ritual of Christian Fellowship. Let us know if you are new, would like to become a member or are interested in more information about Peachtree Road. We pray that this time together will be a blessing in your life. Pastoral Prayer The Lord s Prayer

4 Ministry of Music (11:15 am) Let every heart prepare a throne Mark Patterson (Twentieth Century) Let every heart prepare a throne for soon the Child of Light will come. Let every voice prepare a song to welcome Christ the Promised One. Let every hand reach out with love to greet this gift from God above. Make ready now, the Savior comes, the Prince of Peace the Promised One. So let the flame of Advent glow, each candle shines that all may know the hope we need, so long foretold will soon be here for us to hold. Let every heart prepare a throne for soon the Child of Light will come. Let every voice prepare a song to welcome Christ the Promised One. Let every heart prepare a throne. Celebration Singers Phillip Doddridge proclamation of the word At the Gospel Procession,* Hymn 219 What Child Is This Greensleeves The Gospel Lesson* Matthew 11:2-6 before the reading Cantor: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew. Choir: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! Sermon People: Response to the word At the Offertory, Prayer Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! following the reading Minister: The Gospel of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God! the Alleluia is repeated. It s a Wonderful Life - Believe It! Anthem The hands that first held Mary s child Dan Forrest (b. 1978) The hands that first held Mary s child were hard from working wood. From boards they sawed and planed and filed and splinters they withstood. This day they gripped no tool of steel, they drove no iron nail, but cradled from the head to heel our Lord, newborn and frail. When Joseph marveled at the size of that small breathing frame, and gazed upon those bright new eyes and spoke the infant s name, the angel s words he once had dreamed poured down from heaven s height, and like the host of stars that beamed blessed earth with welcome light. This child shall be Emmanuel, not God upon the throne, but God with us, Emmanuel, as close as blood and bone. The tiny form in Joseph s palms confirmed what he had heard, and from his heart rose hymns and psalms for heaven s human word. The tools that Joseph laid aside a mob would later lift and use with anger, fear, and pride to crucify God s gift. Let us, O Lord, not only hold the child who s born today, but charged with faith may we be bold to follow in His way. The Parish Choir (8:45 am) Thomas Troeger The Chancel Choir (11:15 am) Jennifer Humphreys, cello At the Presentation,* Hymn 95 Tune: Old Hundredth Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise Him, all creatures here below; praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

5 At the Retiring Procession,* Hymn 238 Angels We Have Heard on High Gloria sending forth Benediction* Peace* Minister People The peace of the Lord be always with you. And also with you. Response* Tune: Houston I want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus. God set the stars to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine on my heart, Lord Jesus. Choir and Congregation Closing Voluntary Toccata on Veni Emmanuel Andrew Carter (b.1939) * Stand as you are able. ** Ushers will seat all those who are waiting. Please turn off all pagers, cellular phones and similar devices while in the Sanctuary. Hearing devices and large print hymnals are available through our usher teams. Following the service, Stephen Ministers are available in the chapel for prayer and support. Please Welcome to our Church Community These Children Being Baptized Today: Eleanor Robbins Dickey, born June 9, 2013, daughter of Laney & Ty Dickey; Brooks Oliver Katterheinrich, born August 5, 2013, son of Lauren & Josh Katterheinrich; Elizabeth Fleming MacKenzie, born October 18, 2012, daughter of Katie & Josh MacKenzie; Grady Mitchell Weller, born March 28, 2013, son of Kati & Greg Weller. The Flowers on the Altar are Given to the Glory of God In Loving Memory of: Bob E. Noble by Robert A. Noble and family. In Loving Memory of: Jerry and Betty Shetler by Tee, Kris, Erickson, and Stone Bridges. In Loving Memory of: Erma Jean Marshall Smith, a wonderful mother and grandmother, honoring her December 14th birthday by Alan Smith and Chandler Smith. Altar Flowers: If you would like to make a donation in honor or in memory of a loved one, please contact Linda Schutte at Preaching: Rev. Bill Britt, Senior Minister - Matthew 11:2-6 Liturgists: Rev. Darren Hensley, Deacon, Rev. Karla Otroszko Daniel, Associate Minister, Rev. Thomas Martin, Associate Minister, Beth Spencer, Director of Lay Volunteer Service and Local Outreach Music: Scott Atchison, Director of Music and Organist, Nicole Marane, Associate Director of Music and Associate Organist, Kathy Fletcher, Director of Youth and Children s Music, Greg Matteson, Associate Musician, Sally Westmoreland, Associate Musician, The Parish Choir, The Chancel Choir, The Celebration Singers, The Carol Choir, The Covenant Choir Lighting the Advent Candles Today: 88:45 am Mack & Martha Barnes; 9:00 am Clint & Ashley Smith; 11:15 am Jeff & Lisa Peterson Holy Communion Moore Chapel: Rev. Lindley Curtis, Associate Minister, is the celebrant today. Jeremy McElroy, Assistant Organist, leads the music. Upcoming Celebrant: December 22 - Rev. Thomas Martin, Associate Minister

6 Announcements. December 15, 2013 Complete details at Join us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter. Sign up to receive our weekly E.newsletter by using the red pads in the pews. Today Carols by Candlelight! Today, 5:30 pm, Sanctuary Experience the Christmas Story told through music and narration at a joyful sing-a-long for all ages! This evening combines English and Australian traditions in a festive event that everyone will enjoy and remember! New this year: A stunning dramatic portrayal of Mary s experience as the Mother of the Messiah. Bring a friend and enjoy our final evening concert offering of this magnificent, musical Christmas season! Advent Forum Series: Reflections of Messiah Sundays in December,10:00 am, C106 This season, reflect on the scriptures that inspired Handel s transformative work The Messiah. Enjoy a wonderful lesson each Sunday as we prepare our hearts this Advent season. Worship The Longest Night Prayer Service Sunday, December 22, 7:00 pm, Chapel This candlelight service gives each of us a time to experience the hope that God intended through the coming of Christ. Rev. Leslie Watkins preaching, When the World Breaks Your Heart. Christmas Eve Worship Services Tuesday, December 24, 2013 All services webcast live at Complimentary childcare available for children ages 3 and under for the 4:00 & 6:00 pm services. 12:00 pm. The First Communion of Christmas 4:00 pm. Family Candlelight & Pageant 6:00 pm. Family Candlelight & Pageant 8:00 pm. Festival of Lessons & Carols 10:30 pm. Festival Choral Eucharist Christmas Eve Volunteer Chorus You are invited to sing with the choir at our first Christmas Eve service! We will have one rehearsal in the Music Suite at 11:00 am on the same day. Call Advent & Christmas Flowers Provide flowers and greenery in our Sanctuary for this glorious season! You may give in honor or memory of someone special using the envelopes in the pews or online at Christmas Giving PRUMC s Christmas Giving allows you to change lives with a simple gift. Your donations support both local and global outreach efforts. Christmas Kindness offers a dignified way for Atlantans in need to bring Christmas to their families. We make available toys, coats and household items so families can celebrate Christmas while living within their means. Our Christmas Eve Offering is dedicated to our global missions. A gift can provide life-saving clean water in Kenya, shelter in Nicaragua and Honduras, and love to orphans in Georgia. Give anytime this month by using the card in this bulletin, or giving online at Christmas Giving Cards and Mission Items Sunday, December 15 & 22, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm December 16 &17, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Select stylish local or global outreach cards to give to your loved ones this Christmas. With each card, a gift is made on the recipient s behalf to someone less fortunate in our community or around the world. Available for a limited time in the Dogwood Shop space, along with remaining Missions Market treasures. Pick up yours today! Music & Arts Christmas with The Georgia Boy Choir December 20 & 21, 7:00 pm, Sanctuary Enjoy a concert by the premiere boy choir of the southeast featuring seasonal favorites and a few surprises! Visit for more information and to purchase tickets. Education & Enrichment Winter Short Term Classes: I Resolve Join us in January for a special series of short term classes titled I Resolve. Whether you resolve to deepen your prayer life, strengthen your relationships or get a handle on your finances in the upcoming year, we have a class for you! Classes include: 24/6 - A Prescription for a Happier, Healthier Life, Financial Peace University, The Form and Power of Religion, Job, Adam Hamilton s Love to Stay, Prayer, and Psalms. Details and registration now online at

7 Missions Christmas Eve Offering Our special offering will benefit PRUMC global mission work by providing clean water in Kenya, love and support to children in the Nation of Georgia, and shelter for Hondurans and Nicaraguans. PRUMC Family Mission Trip December 27, 2013 to January 2, 2014 Two days after Christmas, Lee and Robert Daniel will lead PRUMC families on a mission trip to Nicaragua, Pinaz de Paz: Pineapples of Peace Ministry. Please keep these families in your prayers as they prepare for their upcoming trip to live and give like Jesus. PRUMC 2014 Mission Trips Join a PRUMC mission team to nurture human dignity and show the love of Christ! You will transform lives... and change yours forever. To learn more, contact Anne French at annef@prumc.org or visit our Global Missions pages at Oklahoma Relief I: January 17 to 20, 2014 Honduras Mission Trip: February 1 to 8, 2014 Oklahoma Relief II: February 14 to 17, 2014 Kenya Mission Trip: March 6 to 16, 2014 Nicaragua Mission Trip: March 9 to 14, 2014 Country of Georgia: May 23-31, 2014 Young Adult Bahamas: July 20-26, 2014 Country of Georgia Information Meeting Sunday, January 26, 10:00 am, C106 Join us for information, stories, a slide show and more about our May-June trip! Contact Lynn Banks at lynnsbanks@mindspring.com. Guilds Flower Guild Note Cards Sundays through December 22, Outside Sanctuary Enjoy twelve all-occasion note cards featuring the stunning floral arrangements of our church. Perfect for gifts, the proceeds will support the PRUMC Flower Guild. Pick up yours today or contact donnaludtke@comcast.net. Finance Annual Stewardship Please be sure to make your pledge to the church s annual operating budget as soon as possible so we may plan all programs, services and events for the upcoming year. For questions about your pledge, contact Louisa Mouchet at or louisa@ prumc.org. Thank you for continued and generous support of our church! Children & Families Nursery Volunteers Needed Shifts are from 8:30-10:30 am OR 10:30 am -12:30 pm. Contact Jordan Black at jordanb@prumc.org or to volunteer. Register Now for Youth Holiday Sports Camps Visit to sign up for All Sports Camp, Dec 19 and 20; Rising Stars Basketball Camp, Dec 23 or Dec 30 - Jan 3. UMKF Fellowship for 3rd, 4th & 5th Graders Sunday, January 12, 5:30-7:00 pm Kick off a new season of great activities, devotions, food and fun with church friends! We ll start with Bingo and prizes in January. Students & Confirmation Ski Trip Meeting Sunday, January 5, 9:00 am, Youth Lounge All students and parents will finalize ski trip details, room assignments and paperwork. Spots still open - registration forms online at MYF: Sundays, 5:00 to 7:00 pm, Youth Lounge Jan 5 Small Group Kick-off! Young Adults Save the Date Moms: Mom and Me Bible Study Sundays, Jan 26, Feb 9 & 23, 4:30-6:00 pm Couples: Ignite! Thursday Night Date Series Thursdays, Jan 23, Feb 6 & 20, 6:30 pm Parents: MPWG Sticky Faith Series Tuesdays, Jan 28, Feb 11 & 25, 6:30 pm Adults Ruth s Chris Steak House & Centennial Park Lights Tuesday, Dec 17, 4:30 pm departure Enjoy our annual dinner then stroll the park to enjoy the glittering lights - and even the Ferris Wheel! RSVP to Lindley Curtis at or lindleyc@prumc.org. Men Men s Breakfast Tuesday, January 14, 7:15 am, Hospitality Suite Guest speaker Bryant Cornett. Details and registration at

8 Welcome! Welcome to Peachtree Road United Methodist Thank you for worshiping with us today! We are grateful for your presence and invite you to participate in our worship, program and service life here at Peachtree Road. Our hope is to make a warm, caring community that you can call home. To keep up with PRUMC events, services and more we invite you to visit us at find us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter. You may also sign up to receive our weekly E.newsletter by using the red pads in the pews. If You Are New Childcare is available in our nursery for children ages 6 weeks to 2 years each Sunday. A paging system for the nursery is located on the front pillars of the chancel area. Education for all ages is held at 10:00 am each Sunday. Please ask an ambassador for more information. Information and registration for events, programs, services and small groups can be found online at The Choir always welcomes new members! Contact Scott Atchison at scott@prumc.org. To sing at the 12:00 pm service on Christmas Eve, December 24, please call There will be one rehearsal at 11:00 am on the same day. Visitor and New Member Orientation classes offer information on the church, small group opportunities, Methodism and more. For more information, contact Susan Marshall at or susanm@prumc.org. Member News Sympathy to: The family of Martha Nell Allman on her death on December 7, 2013 The family of Ann Epps on her death on December 7, 2013 Annette Meyer on the death of her brother, Charles (Bud) Cole on November 30, 2013 Pastoral Care To request pastoral care during weekdays, call the church offices at To request pastoral care after 5:00 pm or on weekends, call our Pastoral Care Emergency Line at for a minister on call. PRUMC Christmas Giving Scan this QR code to be directed to our secure Online Giving web page to make a donation to Christmas Giving. Joining Peachtree Road New Members are welcomed into the congregation during our Sunday morning worship services, at 8:45 or 11:15 am. You may: Transfer from another Methodist church Transfer from another denomination Join for the first time on Confession of Faith For more information please contact Susan Marshall at or susanm@prumc.org.