JANUARY 3, 2016 11:00 AM 2 ND SUNDAY after CHRISTMAS THE WORD BECAME FLESH
2 ND SUNDAY after CHRISTMAS January 3, 2016 11:00 am Worship Liturgically, Christmas is not over! Contrary to advertising campaigns that tout Christmas as beginning with Advent (or Halloween!), the actual Christmas Season in most Western church traditions begins at sunset on Christmas Eve, December 24, and lasts through January 5. Since this time includes 12 days, the season of Christmas is known in many places as the Twelve Days of Christmas. January 6 is usually celebrated as Epiphany, although it carries different significance in various church traditions. Historically, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth to a young maiden from Galilee. Theologically, Christmas is the celebration of the incarnation of God in Jesus the Christ, the self-revelation of God to the world in human form for the reconciliation of humanity to Himself. [2] *Those who are able, please stand. WELCOME Welcome to all who are worshipping with us. Child care and a worship education program for preschoolers are available in Building D during this service. Consult an usher if you need an assistive hearing device or a largeprint bulletin. As we enter a holy space and time this morning, please silence all electronic devices. The opening voluntary is the call to silent meditation and preparation for worship. OPENING VOLUNTARY Prelude on Forest Green Richard Purvis *CALL TO WORSHIP One: Our God is the one who brought us up from nothingness, who breathed into emptiness and created all that is. All: With love and care, God shaped the world in all its diversity of nature and people. One: And running through God s creation are beautiful hopes for justice, compassion, liberation, and peace. All: O God, creator of our past, our present, and our future, we thank you for the many blessings you bestow on us each moment. One: Be with us now. Draw near to us as we draw near to you. All: Lead us in paths of righteousness. Fill our hearts with compassion and a thirst for justice. Teach us to be cocreators, with you, of a world where all belong and share in the abundance you have given us. *PROCESSIONAL HYMN #292 All Beautiful the March of Days CALL TO CONFESSION forest green PRAYER OF CONFESSION All: Holy God, as we begin the New Year may we approach it with thanksgiving. We too often come to you with sorrow and regretfulness, may your spirit guide us and give us hearts of gratitude. May we constantly remember that your Son died on the cross so that we may live, and live abundantly. Forgive
us for our lack of gratitude and turn us toward You with open and grateful hearts. Silent confession One: Gracious God, All: Give us grace and forgiveness for those who are against us, give us compassion for the other, hope for the future, and give us the strength to fight for justice in our broken world. We pray these things in your holy name. Amen. ASSURANCE OF PARDON *CONGREGATIONAL RESPONSE toulon We give our minds to understand your ways, hands, eyes and voice to serve your great design, heart with the flame of your own love ablaze, till for your glory all our powers combine. (may be found as stanza 2 of hymn #375) CONCERNS OF THE PEOPLE Please sign and pass the Friendship Register. Before reading from the Bible, we seek the illumination of the Holy Spirit and call upon God to make us receptive to the life-giving Word that comes to us through both the reading and proclamation of Scripture. PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION OLD TESTAMENT READING Jeremiah 31:7-14 One: The Word of the Lord. All: Thanks be to God. ANTHEM Behold a Star Felix Mendelssohn Behold a star from Jacob shining, and a scepter from Israel rising to reign in glory over the nations. As bright the star of morning gleams, so Jesus sheddeth glorious beams of light and consolation. Thy word, O Lord, radiance darting, truth imparting, gives salvation. Thine be praise and adoration. NEW TESTAMENT READING John 1:10-18 One: The Word of the Lord. All: Thanks be to God. LITANY OF PARTING For first- and second-graders as they leave for worship enrichment Congregation: May God be with you there. Children: May God be with you here. Felix Mendelssohn- Bartholdy (1809-1847) was a true child prodigy and musical genius in the tradition of Mozart. He was equally skilled in composition, conducting, and as a pianist and organist. His symphonies, sonatas, and concertos are all models of their respective forms, and bridge the styles of late Classical and early Romantic music in Germany. His eloquent gift for melodic invention is displayed in this morning s anthem. SERMON There s A Stranger In The Land Andrew Esqueda [3]
*AFFIRMATION OF 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. Healey Willan (1880-1968) was an Anglo- Canadian organist, church musician and composer. Author of over 800 works, including operas, symphonies, chamber music, and works for piano and organ, he is best remembered for his sacred choral music. While serving as Precentor at Toronto s Church of St. Mary Magdalene from 1921 until his death, Willan created a unique and respected body of liturgical song and sacred choral settings that form an enduring repertoire for many church choirs. 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. Nicene Creed *CONGREGATIONAL RESPONSE resignation The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days; O may your house be my abode and all my work be praise. There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come; no more a stranger or a guest, but like a child at home. (may be found as stanza 3 of hymn #172) GIVING OF OFFERINGS OFFERTORY O Sacred Feast Henry Willan O sacred feast, wherein Christ is received, the memory of his passion is renewed in us, our souls are fill d with grace, and the pledge of everlasting glory is given unto us. Alleluia. *DOXOLOGY #592 old hundredth *PRAYER OF DEDICATION INVITATION TO THE TABLE GREAT PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING One: The Lord be with you. All: And also with you. [4]
One: Lift up your hearts. All: We lift them to the Lord. One: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. All: It is right to give our thanks and praise. Congregational responses during prayer (sung) Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna in the highest. Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again. PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. COMMUNION OF THE LORD S SUPPER The elements used in the Lord s Supper are wine and gluten-free bread. For those who do not wish to drink wine, grape juice is in the outer rim of the trays. When passing the bread to your neighbor, say, This is the Bread of Life. When passing the wine or juice to your neighbor, say, This is the Cup of Salvation. POST-COMMUNION PRAYER *CLOSING HYMN #309 divinum mysterium Of the Father s Love Begotten *CHARGE AND BENEDICTION The word thanksgiving, in its Greek-derived form, Eucharist, has become perhaps the most widely known designation in ecumenical use for the sacrament of this meal we share today. Other ways of describing the meal are Lord s Supper or Holy Communion. The name Lord s Supper evokes the sense of koinonia (fellowship), enjoyed by the people of God with one another as they gather at the Table with Christ, their host. The words Holy Communion accent the congregation s intimate spiritual relation with the Christ whose presence is given in the Sacrament. Companion to the Book of Common Worship BENEDICTION RESPONSE Amen John Stainer CONCLUDING VOLUNTARY In Thee Is Gladness Johann Sebastian Bach As our time of worship comes to an end, our time of service begins; we depart to be the church in the world! [5]
LIFE AT TRINITY WELCOME welcome intentionally WE RE GLAD YOU ARE HERE! JOIN US FOR COFFEE AND CONVERSATION IN THE FIVE POINTS COURTYARD AFTER THE SERVICE. We can answer any questions you may have or simply get to know you, whether you are just visiting or looking for a church home. If you are interested in learning more about Trinity Church or in becoming a member, you are encouraged to attend one of the New Member classes held throughout the year. Classes are held in the Chapel Parlor from 9:45 to 10:45 am on Sunday. Child care is available. The next class series meets January 23, 31; February 7, 14. For more information, contact Gay Gunter at 770-432-1090 or gayhgunter@charter.net. worship Creatively TODAY AT TRINITY Worship Leaders Preaching: Andrew Esqueda, director of youth and family ministries Liturgist: Rev. Pam Driesell, senior pastor Music The Chancel Choir of Trinity Church Norman Mackenzie, organist and director of music and fine arts Acolyte Justin Schaufele Child Care Although children are always welcome in the sanctuary, child care is available for children, birth through K, in building D: infants, D100; one-year-olds, D102; two-year-olds, D104; three-year-olds, D106; pre-k, D119. Church School 9:45 am Biblical Definition of Marriage Leader: Rev. Lindsay Armstrong Williams Hall Jan. 10: Marriage and the New Testament Theological Reflections on Issues Before the Church Leader: Dr. George Stroup B108 Jan. 10: Spirituality Joys and Losses across the Life Cycle: Navigating the Human Journey Leaders: Dr. Mary Lisa Henry, Dr. Matthew Norman B110 Topics in the series: embarking on adulthood; setbacks: divorce and co-parenting; work identities; health issues; death and dying; coping: the value of therapy and the role of faith NEXT SUNDAY Sunday, January 10 Not in Polite Company?? Amos 5:21-24; Micah 6:8; Luke 4:14-21 Rev. Pam Driesell preaching A congregational lunch will follow the 11 a.m. service. [6]
Congregational Meeting Sunday, January 10 The congregational meeting to elect the nominating committee for our new class of Elders will be held in the sanctuary after 11:00 am worship on Sunday, January 10. CONGREGATIONAL LIFE Thursday Night Supper Thursday, January 7 5:45 pm, Williams Hall Menu: baked potato bar, turkey chili, broccoli, mixed fruit, salad, brownies Gather around the table in Williams Hall and share joy, food, and fellowship. Meals are prepared from scratch, using fresh ingredients. Cost is $7 per adult, $4 per child. If you would like to join us in sharing supper with our Agape children, please contact Ginni Festa at ginnif8285@gmail.com. Reservations: www.trinityatlanta.org or 404-237-6491 WOMEN S LINK Women s Link Forum Saturday, February 6 9:00 am - 2:30 pm The 2016 Women s Link Forum will be held in Williams Hall on Saturday, February 6, from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. Linda Douty, author and spiritual director from Memphis, Tennessee, will lead us in discussing connection with God through Letting Go. Registration begins January 4. Cost is $25 and includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and all materials. TRINITY MEN Men s Breakfast Friday, January 8 7:27 am, Williams Hall GATHER JOYFULLY Join the group for this weekly opportunity to enjoy great fellowship, a lively program, and a really good breakfast. Reservations are not required; $7 per person. YOUNG ADULTS College Ministry Update Trinity college students are at Montreat this weekend for the College Conference! Pray for their safety and their time spent exploring what John 3:16 can mean in a pluralistic world. YOUTH Presbyterian Youth Connection Sunday, January 3 5:00 pm, Youth Choir There is no youth group tonight, but make sure to be at Youth Choir practice tonight! We ll see you back at youth group next Sunday! learn purposefully ADULT EDUCATION All-Adult Church School Sunday, February 14 9:45 am, Williams Hall An all-adult church school will be held on Sunday, February 14. Dr Erskin Clark will be speaking on his new book By the Rivers of Water a nineteenth Atlantic Odyssey. Trinity Explores Science & Religion: A Marriage Made in the Heavens? January 14, 28; February 11 Speaker: Dr. Albert Anderson Over three installments, we will survey the modern scientific understanding of the universe as a whole, with an emphasis on our place in space and time; in galactic and solar environments; in relation to other life (plant and animal); and in relation to ourselves (spiritual awakening and discovery of self). [7]
serve wholeheartedly MISSION Loose hange for Lunches Month of January Throughout the month of January, you will have an opportunity to offer your loose change to help feed the hungry children at our partner school, St. Francois, and the other schools on the island of LaGonậve, Haiti. The hot lunch provided for these school children may be their only meal of the day, at a cost of only 25 a meal. Our food aid to Haiti has become particularly critical because of Haiti s drought during 2015. You may participate in two ways: 1. toss your loose change into the baskets at the door following each worship service and/or 2. take home one of the Loose hange for Lunches cups to collect change in your family throughout the week and bring your collection to church when the cup is full. Journey Shelter Join in God s transformative work through Journey by preparing a meal for 30 men at Journey Night Shelter. All ages are welcome to serve! The following dates are available: Jan. 25, Feb. 22, March 28, April 25, May 23, June 27, July 25, Aug. 22, Sept. 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 28 and Dec. 26. Contact: Marcy Clerveaux, mclerveaux@ trinityatlanta.org THIS WEEK GATHER JOYFULLY Sunday, January 3 9:45 am Church School 11:00 am Worship 6:00 pm Youth Supper & PYC Monday, January 4 10:00 am Intergenerational Devotional for Women 10:00 am Women s Link Tutorial Tuesday, January 5 7:30 am Personnel Committee 8:30 am Yoga Wednesday, January 6 7:00 am Awakening 8:00 am Property Committee 8:30 am Strategic Planning 10:00 am The Tent 12:30 pm Silent Meditation 1:30 pm Dream Group 7:30 pm Chancel Choir 8:00 pm AA Meeting Thursday, January 7 9:30 am Tai Chi 10:00 am Spirituality of Aging: Bearing Fruit in All Seasons 4:00 pm Children s Choirs 5:30 pm Finance Committee 5:45 pm Thursday Night Supper 7:00 pm Novel Ideas Friday, January 8 7:27 pm Men s Breakfast 9:30 am CFM Committee [8]