The Fourth Sunday of Advent
8 AM in the sanctuary
11 AM in the sanctuary and via Zoom
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Narthex Door Wreath:
To the Glory of God
and in Loving Memory of
Elizabeth and Amil Loch,
by Ruth Lynne Loch & John Polger
To the Glory of God
and in Loving Memory of
Elizabeth and Amil Loch,
by Ruth Lynne Loch & John Polger
Prelude
Processional: Hymnal #56 (vv.1-4) O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
1 O come, O come Emmanuel,
and ransom captive Israel,
that mourns in lonely exile here
until the Son of God appear.
[Refrain] Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!
2 O come, thou Wisdom from on high,
who orderest all things mightily;
to us the path of knowledge show,
and teach us in her ways to go. [Refrain]
3 O come, O come, thou Lord of might,
who to thy tribes on Sinai's height
in ancient times didst give the law,
in cloud, and majesty, and awe. [Refrain]
4 O come, thou Branch of Jesse's tree,
free them from Satan’s tyranny
that trust thy mighty power to save,
and give them victory o'er the grave. [Refrain]
Lighting the Advent Wreath:
Light the Advent candle four,
Think of joy forevermore,
Christ child in a stable born,
Gift of love that Christmas morn.
Candle, candle burning bright,
Shining in the cold winter night.
Candle, candle burning bright,
fill our hearts with Christmas light.
Opening Acclamation
Celebrant Blessed are you, holy and living One.
People You come to your people and set them free.
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thought of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy Name, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Song of Praise: LEVAS #237 Lord, Have Mercy [Tune at end of bulletin]
Lord, have mercy, Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy, have mercy, O Lord.
Salutation
God be with you.
People
And also with you.
Celebrant
Let us pray.
Collect: BCP p.212 Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Micah, Chapter 5 verses 2-5a
You, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel. And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth; and he shall be the one of peace.
Hear what the Spirit is saying to God’s people. [The People keep silence.]
The Response is Canticle 15, prayed by the lector, BCP p.91.
[The Song of Mary Magnificat Luke 1:46-55]
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.
A reading from the Letter of the Hebrews, Chapter 10 verses 5-10
When Christ came into the world, he said, "Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure. Then I said, 'See, God, I have come to do your will, O God' (in the scroll of the book it is written of me)." When he said above, "You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings" (these are offered according to the law), then he added, "See, I have come to do your will." He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. And it is by God's will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Hear what the Spirit is saying to God’s people. [The People keep silence.]
Gradual: Hymnal #465 Eternal Light, Shine in My Heart
1 Eternal light, shine in my heart; eternal hope, lift up my eyes;
eternal power, be my support; eternal wisdom, make me wise.
2 Eternal life, raise me from death; eternal brightness, help me see;
eternal Spirit, give me breath; eternal Savior, come to me:
3 until by your most costly grace, invited by your holy word,
at last I come before your face to know you, my eternal God.
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (1:39-45) Glory to you, Lord Christ
In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord."
The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Christ
Sermon
The Nicene Creed
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: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man. 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. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He 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 the People Please kneel, sit or stand. The People respond: Shine in our hearts.
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. Isaiah 9:2
You who dwell in darkness and light, in silence and sound, dwell in the hearts of your people. In hope, peace, and joy may we await with anticipation the coming of Christ the Morning Star.
Silence.
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who framed the brightness of the first light in creation, dispel the arrogance, animosity, and anger that shatter the unity of your holy Church. Fill your faithful people with the radiant light of truth.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who delivered your people from the misery of bondage in slavery to the land of promise, set us free from enslavement to division, disunity, and distrust in our public life and labor. Illumine those in authority with the light of vision.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who patterned the stars and called the sun into being, who appointed the moon and chartered the cosmos, pattern the hearts of people everywhere to see in each other the beauty of the universe and the splendor of creation, that divisions of race, class, gender, and ethnicity may be recreated into one common humanity.
We pray for Epiphany School in Uganda, its primary class Seven; and in our Diocese for St. Anne’s, Trexlertown; and Education for Ministry (EfM).
We give thanks for Elizabeth and Amil Loch - in whose memory the Narthex Door Wreath is given.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who shower comfort and hope to the lowest, the lost, and the least, shower the light of compassion on the sick, the sorrowful, and the suffering especially Canon Bill & Fran; Rev. Tom; Maureen; Mary-Jo & the Cliff family; Irena; Mason; Jim; Jackie; Bill; Arja; Addie; Wendy; Gail; David D.; Robert; David; the Johnson family; Tristan; Nancy & Derry; Joyce; Michael, Mikey, Allie; Rick; Carol; Luke; Wilmer; Pat; Mason; Beth; James, Laura & Cristina; Ryan & Michelle; Mel; Donna; Paula; Mike and the residents & staff at Abington Manor; Jimmy; Adele; Molly; Judy; John; Amy and Jim; Beth; Jack; Susan; Scott; Lynn; Richelle; Kim; Ceil; Jim; Don; Eleanore & George; Amy & Todd; Sandi; Bob; Betsy & Ed; Jane; Louise; Daryl; Addiction Sufferers & their families; all whose lives are touched by COVID-19; for Children killed by gunfire, and their families..
Help us to be your compassion and hope in the world.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You have welcomed into the brilliant light of eternity those who have died, welcome those whose lives have been cut short by violence, warfare, and strife. Shine the light of hope.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who delight in the complexity and splendor of creation, help us to delight in the diversity of this earth, our island home. Inspire your people to care for all you have made.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
The Celebrant adds a concluding Collect.
May Christ, the Morning Star who knows no setting, find us ever burning with the light of love, the spirit of truth, and the wellspring of hope. Amen.
Confession of Sin
The Deacon or Celebrant says: Let us confess our sins to God. Silence may be kept.
Minister and People: God of all mercy, we confess that we have sinned against you, opposing your will in our lives. We have denied your goodness in each other, in ourselves, and in the world you have created. We repent of the evil that enslaves us, the evil we have done, and the evil done on our behalf. Forgive, restore, and strengthen us through our Savior Jesus Christ, that we may abide in your love and serve only your will. Amen.
Absolution: Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through the grace of Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.
The Peace: The peace of Christ be always with you.
The People And also with you.
Announcements & Opportunities!
Prayer For a Birthday (#50 BCP page 830)
O God, our times are in your hand: Look with favor, we pray, on you servants as they begin another year. Grant that they may grow in wisdom and grace, and strengthen their trust in your goodness all the days of their lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer For those we Love (#54 BCP page 831)
Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to thy never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come, knowing that thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Deacon: Offertory sentence
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Offertory: Hymnal #265 The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came
1 The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
his wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame;
"All hail," said he, "thou lowly maiden Mary, most highly favored lady," Gloria!
2 "For know a blessed Mother thou shalt be,
all generations laud and honor thee,
thy Son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold, most highly favored lady," Gloria!
3 Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head,
"To me be as it pleaseth God," she said,
"my soul shall laud and magnify his holy Name." Most highly favored lady, Gloria!
4 Of her, Emmanuel, the Christ, was born
in Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn,
and Christian folk throughout the world will ever say--"Most highly favored lady," Gloria!
Doxology: Praise God from whom all blessings flow
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.
Eucharistic Prayer 2
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Celebrant: We praise you and we bless you, holy and gracious God, source of life abundant.
From before time you made ready the creation. Your Spirit moved over the deep and brought all things into being: sun, moon, and stars; earth, winds, and waters; and every living thing.
You made us in your image, and taught us to walk in your ways.
But we rebelled against you, and wandered far away; and yet, as a mother cares for her children, you would not forget us. Time and again you called us to live in the fullness of your love. And so this day we join with Saints and Angels in the chorus of praise that rings through eternity, lifting our voices to magnify you as we sing (say):
Hymnal #S 128: Sanctus Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna in the highest.
The Celebrant continues Glory and honor and praise to you, holy and living God.
To deliver us from the power of sin and death and to reveal the riches of your grace,
you looked with favor upon Mary, your willing servant, that she might conceive and bear a son, Jesus the holy child of God. Living among us, Jesus loved us. He broke bread with outcasts and sinners, healed the sick, and proclaimed good news to the poor.
He yearned to draw all the world to himself yet we were heedless of his call to walk in love. Then, the time came for him to complete upon the cross the sacrifice of his life, and to be glorified by you.
At the following words concerning the bread, the Celebrant is to hold it, or lay a hand upon it; and at the words concerning the cup, to hold or place a hand upon the cup and any other vessel containing the wine to be consecrated.
On the night before he died for us, Jesus was at table with his friends. He took bread, gave thanks to you, broke it, and gave it to them, and said: “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” As supper was ending, Jesus took the cup of wine. Again, he gave thanks to you, gave it to them, and said: “Drink this, all of you:
This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is poured out for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Now gathered at your table, O God of all creation, and remembering Christ, crucified and risen, who was and is and is to come, we offer to you our gifts of bread and wine, and ourselves, a living sacrifice.
Pour out your Spirit upon these gifts that they may be the Body and Blood of Christ.
Breathe your Spirit over the whole earth and make us your new creation,
the Body of Christ given for the world you have made.
In the fullness of time bring us, with [ and] all your saints,
from every tribe and language and people and nation, to feast at the banquet prepared
from the foundation of the world.
Through Christ and with Christ and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
to you be honor, glory, and praise, for ever and ever. AMEN.
And now, as our Savior Christ has taught us, we now pray (BCP p. 364):
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Breaking of the Bread
Fraction Anthem: Lamb of God Agnus Dei
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: grant us peace.
The Gifts of God for the People of God.
Deacon: Prayer of Spiritual Reception:
In union, O Lord, with the faithful at every altar of Thy Church, where the Holy Eucharist is now being celebrated, we desire to offer you praise and thanksgiving. We present to you our soul and body with the earnest wish that we may always be united to you. And since we cannot now receive you sacramentally, we beseech you to come spiritually into our heart. We unite ourselves to you, and embrace you with all the affections of our soul. Let nothing ever separate you from us. May we live and die in your love. Amen. (Adapted from The Armed Forces Prayer Book 1951)
Communion: Hymnal #66 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus
1 Come, thou long expected Jesus born to set Thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in Thee.
2 Israel's strength and consolation, hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.
3 Born thy people to deliver, born a child, and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever, now thy gracious kingdom bring.
4 By thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone;
by Thine all sufficient merit, raise us to thy glorious throne.
Postcommunion Prayer
Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image and nourishing us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of Christ’s Body and Blood. Now send us forth a people, forgiven, healed, renewed; that we may proclaim your love to the world and continue in the risen life of Christ our Savior. Amen.
Blessing
God’s Blessing be with you, Christ’s peace be with you,
the Spirit’s outpouring be with you, now and always.
Amen.
(source: Celtic)
Recessional: Hymnal #437 Tell Out, My Soul
1 Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord! Unnumbered blessings give my spirit voice;
tender to me the promise of his word; in God my Savior shall my heart rejoice.
2 Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his name! Make known his might, the deeds his arm has done;
his mercy sure, from age to age the same; his holy Name -- the Lord, the Mighty One.
3 Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his might! Powers and dominions lay their glory by.
Proud hearts and stubborn wills are put to flight, the hungry fed, the humble lifted high.
4 Tell out, my soul, the glories of his word! Firm is his promise, and his mercy sure.
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord to children's children and forevermore
Processional: Hymnal #56 (vv.1-4) O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
1 O come, O come Emmanuel,
and ransom captive Israel,
that mourns in lonely exile here
until the Son of God appear.
[Refrain] Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!
2 O come, thou Wisdom from on high,
who orderest all things mightily;
to us the path of knowledge show,
and teach us in her ways to go. [Refrain]
3 O come, O come, thou Lord of might,
who to thy tribes on Sinai's height
in ancient times didst give the law,
in cloud, and majesty, and awe. [Refrain]
4 O come, thou Branch of Jesse's tree,
free them from Satan’s tyranny
that trust thy mighty power to save,
and give them victory o'er the grave. [Refrain]
Lighting the Advent Wreath:
Light the Advent candle four,
Think of joy forevermore,
Christ child in a stable born,
Gift of love that Christmas morn.
Candle, candle burning bright,
Shining in the cold winter night.
Candle, candle burning bright,
fill our hearts with Christmas light.
Opening Acclamation
Celebrant Blessed are you, holy and living One.
People You come to your people and set them free.
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thought of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy Name, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Song of Praise: LEVAS #237 Lord, Have Mercy [Tune at end of bulletin]
Lord, have mercy, Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy, have mercy, O Lord.
Salutation
God be with you.
People
And also with you.
Celebrant
Let us pray.
Collect: BCP p.212 Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Micah, Chapter 5 verses 2-5a
You, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel. And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth; and he shall be the one of peace.
Hear what the Spirit is saying to God’s people. [The People keep silence.]
The Response is Canticle 15, prayed by the lector, BCP p.91.
[The Song of Mary Magnificat Luke 1:46-55]
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.
A reading from the Letter of the Hebrews, Chapter 10 verses 5-10
When Christ came into the world, he said, "Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure. Then I said, 'See, God, I have come to do your will, O God' (in the scroll of the book it is written of me)." When he said above, "You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings" (these are offered according to the law), then he added, "See, I have come to do your will." He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. And it is by God's will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Hear what the Spirit is saying to God’s people. [The People keep silence.]
Gradual: Hymnal #465 Eternal Light, Shine in My Heart
1 Eternal light, shine in my heart; eternal hope, lift up my eyes;
eternal power, be my support; eternal wisdom, make me wise.
2 Eternal life, raise me from death; eternal brightness, help me see;
eternal Spirit, give me breath; eternal Savior, come to me:
3 until by your most costly grace, invited by your holy word,
at last I come before your face to know you, my eternal God.
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (1:39-45) Glory to you, Lord Christ
In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord."
The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Christ
Sermon
The Nicene Creed
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: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man. 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. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He 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 the People Please kneel, sit or stand. The People respond: Shine in our hearts.
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. Isaiah 9:2
You who dwell in darkness and light, in silence and sound, dwell in the hearts of your people. In hope, peace, and joy may we await with anticipation the coming of Christ the Morning Star.
Silence.
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who framed the brightness of the first light in creation, dispel the arrogance, animosity, and anger that shatter the unity of your holy Church. Fill your faithful people with the radiant light of truth.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who delivered your people from the misery of bondage in slavery to the land of promise, set us free from enslavement to division, disunity, and distrust in our public life and labor. Illumine those in authority with the light of vision.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who patterned the stars and called the sun into being, who appointed the moon and chartered the cosmos, pattern the hearts of people everywhere to see in each other the beauty of the universe and the splendor of creation, that divisions of race, class, gender, and ethnicity may be recreated into one common humanity.
We pray for Epiphany School in Uganda, its primary class Seven; and in our Diocese for St. Anne’s, Trexlertown; and Education for Ministry (EfM).
We give thanks for Elizabeth and Amil Loch - in whose memory the Narthex Door Wreath is given.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who shower comfort and hope to the lowest, the lost, and the least, shower the light of compassion on the sick, the sorrowful, and the suffering especially Canon Bill & Fran; Rev. Tom; Maureen; Mary-Jo & the Cliff family; Irena; Mason; Jim; Jackie; Bill; Arja; Addie; Wendy; Gail; David D.; Robert; David; the Johnson family; Tristan; Nancy & Derry; Joyce; Michael, Mikey, Allie; Rick; Carol; Luke; Wilmer; Pat; Mason; Beth; James, Laura & Cristina; Ryan & Michelle; Mel; Donna; Paula; Mike and the residents & staff at Abington Manor; Jimmy; Adele; Molly; Judy; John; Amy and Jim; Beth; Jack; Susan; Scott; Lynn; Richelle; Kim; Ceil; Jim; Don; Eleanore & George; Amy & Todd; Sandi; Bob; Betsy & Ed; Jane; Louise; Daryl; Addiction Sufferers & their families; all whose lives are touched by COVID-19; for Children killed by gunfire, and their families..
Help us to be your compassion and hope in the world.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You have welcomed into the brilliant light of eternity those who have died, welcome those whose lives have been cut short by violence, warfare, and strife. Shine the light of hope.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
You who delight in the complexity and splendor of creation, help us to delight in the diversity of this earth, our island home. Inspire your people to care for all you have made.
Silence
Christ, be our light Shine in our hearts.
The Celebrant adds a concluding Collect.
May Christ, the Morning Star who knows no setting, find us ever burning with the light of love, the spirit of truth, and the wellspring of hope. Amen.
Confession of Sin
The Deacon or Celebrant says: Let us confess our sins to God. Silence may be kept.
Minister and People: God of all mercy, we confess that we have sinned against you, opposing your will in our lives. We have denied your goodness in each other, in ourselves, and in the world you have created. We repent of the evil that enslaves us, the evil we have done, and the evil done on our behalf. Forgive, restore, and strengthen us through our Savior Jesus Christ, that we may abide in your love and serve only your will. Amen.
Absolution: Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through the grace of Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.
The Peace: The peace of Christ be always with you.
The People And also with you.
Announcements & Opportunities!
Prayer For a Birthday (#50 BCP page 830)
O God, our times are in your hand: Look with favor, we pray, on you servants as they begin another year. Grant that they may grow in wisdom and grace, and strengthen their trust in your goodness all the days of their lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer For those we Love (#54 BCP page 831)
Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to thy never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come, knowing that thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Deacon: Offertory sentence
Please remember that you can give on-line at www.onrealm.org or by texting BREAD to 73256.
Thank you for your financial support!
Offertory: Hymnal #265 The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came
1 The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
his wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame;
"All hail," said he, "thou lowly maiden Mary, most highly favored lady," Gloria!
2 "For know a blessed Mother thou shalt be,
all generations laud and honor thee,
thy Son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold, most highly favored lady," Gloria!
3 Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head,
"To me be as it pleaseth God," she said,
"my soul shall laud and magnify his holy Name." Most highly favored lady, Gloria!
4 Of her, Emmanuel, the Christ, was born
in Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn,
and Christian folk throughout the world will ever say--"Most highly favored lady," Gloria!
Doxology: Praise God from whom all blessings flow
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.
Eucharistic Prayer 2
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Celebrant: We praise you and we bless you, holy and gracious God, source of life abundant.
From before time you made ready the creation. Your Spirit moved over the deep and brought all things into being: sun, moon, and stars; earth, winds, and waters; and every living thing.
You made us in your image, and taught us to walk in your ways.
But we rebelled against you, and wandered far away; and yet, as a mother cares for her children, you would not forget us. Time and again you called us to live in the fullness of your love. And so this day we join with Saints and Angels in the chorus of praise that rings through eternity, lifting our voices to magnify you as we sing (say):
Hymnal #S 128: Sanctus Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna in the highest.
The Celebrant continues Glory and honor and praise to you, holy and living God.
To deliver us from the power of sin and death and to reveal the riches of your grace,
you looked with favor upon Mary, your willing servant, that she might conceive and bear a son, Jesus the holy child of God. Living among us, Jesus loved us. He broke bread with outcasts and sinners, healed the sick, and proclaimed good news to the poor.
He yearned to draw all the world to himself yet we were heedless of his call to walk in love. Then, the time came for him to complete upon the cross the sacrifice of his life, and to be glorified by you.
At the following words concerning the bread, the Celebrant is to hold it, or lay a hand upon it; and at the words concerning the cup, to hold or place a hand upon the cup and any other vessel containing the wine to be consecrated.
On the night before he died for us, Jesus was at table with his friends. He took bread, gave thanks to you, broke it, and gave it to them, and said: “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” As supper was ending, Jesus took the cup of wine. Again, he gave thanks to you, gave it to them, and said: “Drink this, all of you:
This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is poured out for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Now gathered at your table, O God of all creation, and remembering Christ, crucified and risen, who was and is and is to come, we offer to you our gifts of bread and wine, and ourselves, a living sacrifice.
Pour out your Spirit upon these gifts that they may be the Body and Blood of Christ.
Breathe your Spirit over the whole earth and make us your new creation,
the Body of Christ given for the world you have made.
In the fullness of time bring us, with [ and] all your saints,
from every tribe and language and people and nation, to feast at the banquet prepared
from the foundation of the world.
Through Christ and with Christ and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
to you be honor, glory, and praise, for ever and ever. AMEN.
And now, as our Savior Christ has taught us, we now pray (BCP p. 364):
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Breaking of the Bread
Fraction Anthem: Lamb of God Agnus Dei
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: grant us peace.
The Gifts of God for the People of God.
Deacon: Prayer of Spiritual Reception:
In union, O Lord, with the faithful at every altar of Thy Church, where the Holy Eucharist is now being celebrated, we desire to offer you praise and thanksgiving. We present to you our soul and body with the earnest wish that we may always be united to you. And since we cannot now receive you sacramentally, we beseech you to come spiritually into our heart. We unite ourselves to you, and embrace you with all the affections of our soul. Let nothing ever separate you from us. May we live and die in your love. Amen. (Adapted from The Armed Forces Prayer Book 1951)
Communion: Hymnal #66 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus
1 Come, thou long expected Jesus born to set Thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in Thee.
2 Israel's strength and consolation, hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.
3 Born thy people to deliver, born a child, and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever, now thy gracious kingdom bring.
4 By thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone;
by Thine all sufficient merit, raise us to thy glorious throne.
Postcommunion Prayer
Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image and nourishing us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of Christ’s Body and Blood. Now send us forth a people, forgiven, healed, renewed; that we may proclaim your love to the world and continue in the risen life of Christ our Savior. Amen.
Blessing
God’s Blessing be with you, Christ’s peace be with you,
the Spirit’s outpouring be with you, now and always.
Amen.
(source: Celtic)
Recessional: Hymnal #437 Tell Out, My Soul
1 Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord! Unnumbered blessings give my spirit voice;
tender to me the promise of his word; in God my Savior shall my heart rejoice.
2 Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his name! Make known his might, the deeds his arm has done;
his mercy sure, from age to age the same; his holy Name -- the Lord, the Mighty One.
3 Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his might! Powers and dominions lay their glory by.
Proud hearts and stubborn wills are put to flight, the hungry fed, the humble lifted high.
4 Tell out, my soul, the glories of his word! Firm is his promise, and his mercy sure.
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord to children's children and forevermore
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Officiant: Mo. Lou Divis
Assistant: Deacon John Davis
Organist: Mary-Jo Cliff
Choir Director: Melissa Driscole
Broadcast Media: Rick Little
Crucifer: Boden Loss
Acolyte & Youth Reader: Liam Moran
First Lesson & Psalm: Al Mileski
Intercessor: Mary-Jo Cliff
Ushers: Al Mileski (8) – John Voigt (11)
Altar Guild: Adrien Lambert, Melissa Driscole, Mary-Jo Cliff
Social Media Director: Barbara Little
Sexton: Jeff Napierala
Admin: Adrien Lambert
Officiant: Mo. Lou Divis
Assistant: Deacon John Davis
Organist: Mary-Jo Cliff
Choir Director: Melissa Driscole
Broadcast Media: Rick Little
Crucifer: Boden Loss
Acolyte & Youth Reader: Liam Moran
First Lesson & Psalm: Al Mileski
Intercessor: Mary-Jo Cliff
Ushers: Al Mileski (8) – John Voigt (11)
Altar Guild: Adrien Lambert, Melissa Driscole, Mary-Jo Cliff
Social Media Director: Barbara Little
Sexton: Jeff Napierala
Admin: Adrien Lambert
This Week's Opportunities
Parish Intercessions December 19-25
Birthdays: Holly Gilpin, Peter Bower
Anniversaries: Scott & Rev. Demery Bader-Saye.
For the Pygmy Ministry, Fr. Charles & Alice their principal
For: Mo. Lou, our Priest-in-Charge, and Rev. John, our Deacon
For: Our Vestry & Staff
Special Services at Epiphany:
Christmas Eve Holy Eucharist, celebrating the birth of Christ, will be held at 5:00 pm December 24. All are welcome to worship, sing, and receive communion!
Note that this is a one time Zoom link just for Christmas Eve - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84777567039
Or on your telephone, dial: +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) then enter Meeting ID: 847 7756 7039#
December 26 at 10:00 am, Church of the Epiphany, Glenburn, and St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Tunkhannock will celebrate the joy of Lessons and Carols. This tradition began in the 1870's in England, and is a favorite combination of the Biblical story of the coming of Christ, interspersed with Christmas carols and hymns. All are welcome! There is no Eucharist at this service. (Use the regular links below for this service.)
Regular Sunday Services at Epiphany:
8 AM Holy Eucharist in the church
11 AM Holy Eucharist at Epiphany – You may join us in church or online
Join Virtual Worship at 11 AM via Zoom on your PC or smart-device here: https://zoom.us/j/99005230944
Call-in via telephone: +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) – enter Meeting ID: 990 0523 0944#
Go to www.epiphanyglenburn.org for the Zoom worship link and bulletin. Be sure to download Zoom software or app a few minutes prior to start of worship.
Acolyte Schedule:
Dec 19 - 11am
Crucifer – Boden
Server – Liam YR
December 23 - 5pm
Crucifer - Phoebe YR
Servers - Hayden and George
December 26 - 10am
Crucifer - Phoebe YR
Acolyte -
Family to Family Christmas Food Giveaway:
Wed, Dec 22nd 9am-4.30pm drive-thru. Armed Forces Reserve Center, 3401 Olyphant Ave, Scranton Pa 18510. Volunteers are needed Dec 21st and 22nd; contact Ann 570-340-6086, Cell: 570-892-8038 call or text, development@fotp-ihm.org
2021 Parish Reports DUE:
If your committee or group has a report to offer the Parish during its Annual Meeting Jan. 30, 2022, please submit for printing to the office @ cote@epix.net
For Our Common Life:
Two remaining sessions of this four-part virtual formation series Thursday, January 13 from 7:00-8:45pm focuses on issues of racial reconciliation and the calling of the Church and our diocese to strive for justice and peace among all people. This series was born of the work and study of the diocesan Racial Justice and Reconciliation Task Force and diocesan staff. We have worked together to create a series of guided interviews with authors and speakers from across the Church that will prompt group discussions and, hopefully, ministry in our congregations and action in our communities. Any questions, email office@diobeth.org Introduction & Glossary doc: https://diobeth.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/FOCL-INTRO-GLOSSARY-draft-2.pdf
Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsde-rqzIjGtS2swtkxaygEIa1_wO_8S4L
Christmas Gifts for Our Homebound:
We have purchased ‘2022 Walking in Grace’ (formerly Daily Guidepost) books in large-print for our homebound parishioners. Please consider a donation of any amount to provide this present of a book from their Epiphany family. Place donation in Sunday offering plate, drop at office, mail to PO Box 189, Clarks Summit Pa 18411.
2021 Inventory of Racial Justice and Truth-telling Ministries:
For the second year, The Episcopal Church has gathered data from more than 70 dioceses—as well as more than 140 congregations and institutions—detailing regional and local ministries of racial justice, reconciliation and healing. This year’s inventory includes an emphasis on ministries of truth-telling about our churches and race. Session #3: Taking the First Steps Wednesday, Jan. 12, 3 - 4:30 p.m. Eastern. Inspiring leaders share best practices and ideas for truth-telling, reckoning and healing work, to help other Episcopal groups jump-start or enhance their efforts. Learn more Racial Reconciliation Ministries https://www.episcopalchurch.org/ministries/racial-reconciliation/
ChurchNext Offering:
Praying with Visual Art with Roger Hutchinson. Visual art enriches life. We go to museums, purchase and create art, fill halls and homes with it. But how often do we use visual art as a prayer tool? Roger paints regularly with his hands as a prayer practice. He also takes time in his prayer life to engage with paintings by other artists, including Pine Trees at Sunset by Vincent Van Gough, which he discusses. Focusing on quiet time with God, conversation with God and exploring the imagination, Roger takes us on a tour of key pieces that have influenced him and deepened his spiritual journey and invites us to find our own journey. $10 per course Register here: https://www.churchnext.tv/library/praying-with-visual-art-with-roger-hutchison-169789/367616/about/
Episcopal Migration Ministries resettles its 100,000th refugee:
Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM)—one of nine national agencies responsible for resettling refugees and Special Immigrant Visa holders in partnership with the U.S. government—is pleased to announce the welcome and resettlement of 100,000 individuals since EMM was formally established in the 1980s.
For more information: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org or 1-800-334-7626
Upcoming Dates for Events at Epiphany:
Epiphany office will be closed Dec 15, 29, and 30 in addition to usual days.
Birthdays: Holly Gilpin, Peter Bower
Anniversaries: Scott & Rev. Demery Bader-Saye.
For the Pygmy Ministry, Fr. Charles & Alice their principal
For: Mo. Lou, our Priest-in-Charge, and Rev. John, our Deacon
For: Our Vestry & Staff
Special Services at Epiphany:
Christmas Eve Holy Eucharist, celebrating the birth of Christ, will be held at 5:00 pm December 24. All are welcome to worship, sing, and receive communion!
Note that this is a one time Zoom link just for Christmas Eve - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84777567039
Or on your telephone, dial: +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) then enter Meeting ID: 847 7756 7039#
December 26 at 10:00 am, Church of the Epiphany, Glenburn, and St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Tunkhannock will celebrate the joy of Lessons and Carols. This tradition began in the 1870's in England, and is a favorite combination of the Biblical story of the coming of Christ, interspersed with Christmas carols and hymns. All are welcome! There is no Eucharist at this service. (Use the regular links below for this service.)
Regular Sunday Services at Epiphany:
8 AM Holy Eucharist in the church
11 AM Holy Eucharist at Epiphany – You may join us in church or online
Join Virtual Worship at 11 AM via Zoom on your PC or smart-device here: https://zoom.us/j/99005230944
Call-in via telephone: +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) – enter Meeting ID: 990 0523 0944#
Go to www.epiphanyglenburn.org for the Zoom worship link and bulletin. Be sure to download Zoom software or app a few minutes prior to start of worship.
Acolyte Schedule:
Dec 19 - 11am
Crucifer – Boden
Server – Liam YR
December 23 - 5pm
Crucifer - Phoebe YR
Servers - Hayden and George
December 26 - 10am
Crucifer - Phoebe YR
Acolyte -
Family to Family Christmas Food Giveaway:
Wed, Dec 22nd 9am-4.30pm drive-thru. Armed Forces Reserve Center, 3401 Olyphant Ave, Scranton Pa 18510. Volunteers are needed Dec 21st and 22nd; contact Ann 570-340-6086, Cell: 570-892-8038 call or text, development@fotp-ihm.org
2021 Parish Reports DUE:
If your committee or group has a report to offer the Parish during its Annual Meeting Jan. 30, 2022, please submit for printing to the office @ cote@epix.net
For Our Common Life:
Two remaining sessions of this four-part virtual formation series Thursday, January 13 from 7:00-8:45pm focuses on issues of racial reconciliation and the calling of the Church and our diocese to strive for justice and peace among all people. This series was born of the work and study of the diocesan Racial Justice and Reconciliation Task Force and diocesan staff. We have worked together to create a series of guided interviews with authors and speakers from across the Church that will prompt group discussions and, hopefully, ministry in our congregations and action in our communities. Any questions, email office@diobeth.org Introduction & Glossary doc: https://diobeth.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/FOCL-INTRO-GLOSSARY-draft-2.pdf
Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsde-rqzIjGtS2swtkxaygEIa1_wO_8S4L
Christmas Gifts for Our Homebound:
We have purchased ‘2022 Walking in Grace’ (formerly Daily Guidepost) books in large-print for our homebound parishioners. Please consider a donation of any amount to provide this present of a book from their Epiphany family. Place donation in Sunday offering plate, drop at office, mail to PO Box 189, Clarks Summit Pa 18411.
2021 Inventory of Racial Justice and Truth-telling Ministries:
For the second year, The Episcopal Church has gathered data from more than 70 dioceses—as well as more than 140 congregations and institutions—detailing regional and local ministries of racial justice, reconciliation and healing. This year’s inventory includes an emphasis on ministries of truth-telling about our churches and race. Session #3: Taking the First Steps Wednesday, Jan. 12, 3 - 4:30 p.m. Eastern. Inspiring leaders share best practices and ideas for truth-telling, reckoning and healing work, to help other Episcopal groups jump-start or enhance their efforts. Learn more Racial Reconciliation Ministries https://www.episcopalchurch.org/ministries/racial-reconciliation/
ChurchNext Offering:
Praying with Visual Art with Roger Hutchinson. Visual art enriches life. We go to museums, purchase and create art, fill halls and homes with it. But how often do we use visual art as a prayer tool? Roger paints regularly with his hands as a prayer practice. He also takes time in his prayer life to engage with paintings by other artists, including Pine Trees at Sunset by Vincent Van Gough, which he discusses. Focusing on quiet time with God, conversation with God and exploring the imagination, Roger takes us on a tour of key pieces that have influenced him and deepened his spiritual journey and invites us to find our own journey. $10 per course Register here: https://www.churchnext.tv/library/praying-with-visual-art-with-roger-hutchison-169789/367616/about/
Episcopal Migration Ministries resettles its 100,000th refugee:
Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM)—one of nine national agencies responsible for resettling refugees and Special Immigrant Visa holders in partnership with the U.S. government—is pleased to announce the welcome and resettlement of 100,000 individuals since EMM was formally established in the 1980s.
For more information: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org or 1-800-334-7626
Upcoming Dates for Events at Epiphany:
Epiphany office will be closed Dec 15, 29, and 30 in addition to usual days.
- Dec 18 - 10 am – Pageant Rehearsal, Parish Hall
- Dec 18 - 11am – Vestry Meeting, Commons Room
- Dec 19 – Following the 11 AM service - Youth Christmas Pageant @ Epiphany
- Dec 19 - 7 pm – Organ Concert, Clarks Green United Methodist Church, 119 Glenburn Rd. – Free!
- Dec 20 - 6-8pm – Drum Circle w/ Al Cabral, Parish Hall - $10/person, $15/couple
- Dec 22 - 9am-4pm – Christmas Food Basket Program, Armed Forces Reserve Center, 3401 Olyphant Ave, Scranton. To donate to Friends of the Poor: text ‘friends’ to 570-525-5956
- Dec 23 –6pm - Caroling with Epiphany Choir – Contact 570-499-1943 if you want to participate
- Dec 24 – 5pm Christmas Eve Service at Epiphany
- Dec 26 – 10AM Lessons & Carols for Christmas at Epiphany with St. Peter’s Parish – NO 8am service at Epiphany – NO 9.15am service at St. Peter’s
- Dec 28 - 8.30am – Check Request Fulfillment, Epiphany Office
- January 6, 2022 – EPIPHANY!
- Jan 8 - 11.30am-1pm – Monthly Food Giveaway, Benton Twp Community Bldg, Fleetville Corners *Volunteers needed 8.30-noon, 11.00am-2pm https://www.facebook.com/NLCFoodSharing/
- Jan 9 - 12.45-5pm – Spinners Web, Parish Hall
- Jan 12 - 3-4.30pm – The Episcopal Church’s Truth-telling Ministries #3: Taking the First Steps –
- Jan 13 - 7pm – For Our Common Life – Virtual Formation series #2 with Diocese of Bethlehem
- Jan 13 Welsh Cookies available for Pick-up at Waverly UMC, 105 Church St, $5/dozen 586-8166
- January 23 – 3pm Holy Hootenanny @ St. Benedict’s Church – Area choirs welcome!
- Jan 30 – Epiphany Annual Parish Meeting & 2021 Presentation of Reports
Please visit our Facebook page for most current events.
Watch for our E-Weekly newsletter in your inbox each Thursday afternoon. Sign-up HERE if you are not already receiving the latest Epiphany news, photos, and links.
Watch for our E-Weekly newsletter in your inbox each Thursday afternoon. Sign-up HERE if you are not already receiving the latest Epiphany news, photos, and links.
Visit www.onrealm.org to claim your Epiphany profile and
set-up online one-time or recurring gifts via ACH transfer, Credit/Debit card.
set-up online one-time or recurring gifts via ACH transfer, Credit/Debit card.
