e Thursday, December 24, 2020 NATIVITY OF OUR LORD Christmas Eve We thank musicians Olushola Amusa, Christopher Perry-Coon, and Jonathan Heim for sharing their talents with us this evening. Worship Assistants Ministers Presiding Minister Deacon Deacon Deacon Lector Lector Cantor/Pianist Cantor Pianist
The People of Good Shepherd Pastor Eric O. Olsen James Blewett Donna-Mari Fieldsa Marge Wenger Bonnie McGowan Cathy Vollono Caryn Yakacki Emma Fitzpatrick Sean Fitzpatrick Loving, Living & Sharing Christ Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and School 99 Central Park Rd., Plainview, NY 11803 Phone: 516.349.1966 Church Website: ourshepherdlives.org Email:
[email protected] School Website: gsplainview.org Email:
[email protected] Reverend Eric Olaf Olsen, Pastor Home Phone: 516-342-9501 Cell Phone: 716 352-0055
[email protected] James Blewett, Donna-Mari Fieldsa & Margaret Wenger, Deacons
Liturgy + Sundays at 8:00 a.m., 10:15 a.m. & 4:00 p.m.
GATHERING The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God. Call to Worship—"Unto Us, Gloria” by Jay Althouse Unto Us a Child is born Gloria Unto Us a Child is born Gloria Christ the savior come to earth, Sing the Angels of his birth, Gloria! Born today in Bethlehem, Gloria Born today in Bethlehem, Gloria Now the righteous all rejoice, sing to God in one great voice, Gloria! Sing Glory to God in the highest for He has delivered a Son Sing Glory to God in the highest and peace to everyone Christ has come to save us all Gloria Christ has come to save us all Gloria Sing to Him the new born King, may our voices ever ring, Gloria! Stars shone bright on that cold night in Bethlehem long ago for God came down to that small town so all the world would know Tiny Babe, tiny Babe. Asleep in manger low Born today in Bethlehem, Gloria! Born today in Bethlehem, Gloria! Now the righteous all rejoice, sing to God in one great voice, Gloria! Sing Glory to God in the highest for He has delivered a Son Sing Glory to God in the highest and peace to everyone Unto Us a Child is born Gloria Unto Us a Child is born Gloria Sing to Him the newborn King, may our voices ever ring, Gloria! For Christ is born today!
Proclamation of the Birth of Jesus Christ Many ages after God created the heavens and the earth, when man and woman were formed in God's own image; long after the great flood, when God set the rainbow in the clouds as a sign of the covenant; twenty-one centuries from the time of Abraham and Sarah; thirteen centuries after Moses led God's people to freedom; eleven centuries from the time of Ruth and the judges; a thousand years from the anointing of David as king; in the sixty-fifth week as Daniel's prophecy takes note; in the one hundred and ninety-fourth Olympiad; the seven hundred and fifty-second year from the founding of the city of Rome; the forty-second year of the reign of Octavian Augustus; in the sixth age of the world, all earth being at peace, Jesus Christ, eternal God, Son of the eternal Father, willing to hallow the world by his coming in mercy, was born of the virgin Mary in Bethlehem of Judea. Today is the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, God made flesh. Entrance Hymn ELW#289 “Angels We Have Heard on High”
Apostolic Greeting P: C: Kyrie
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!
Canticle of Praise
Prayer of the Day P: The Lord be with you. C: And also with you. P: Let us pray. A brief silence is kept before the prayer. P: Almighty God, you made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true Light. Grant that here on earth we may walk in the light of Jesus’ presence and in the last day wake to the brightness of his glory; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. C: Amen. WORD God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching, and song First Reading 2
Isaiah 9:2-7
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. 3You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. 4For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. 5For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. 6For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. L: The Word of the Lord. C: Thanks be to God. Children’s Sermon Christmas Eve Antiphon (sung by choir) "Alleluia! When the time had fully come, God sent forth his Son. Alleluia" Second Reading 11
Titus 2:11-14
The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, 12training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, 13while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 14He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds. L: The Word of the Lord. C: Thanks be to God.
Gospel Processional Hymn: ELW#271 “I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve” verses 1 & 2 I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve Jeg er så glad hver julekveld 1 I am so glad each Christmas Eve, the night of Jesus' birth! Then like the sun the star shone forth, and angels sang on earth. 2 The little child in Bethlehem, he was a king indeed! For he came down from heav'n above to help a world in need. Gospel
Luke 2:1-20
P: The holy gospel according to Luke the 2nd Chapter C: Glory to you, O Lord. In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3All went to their own towns to be registered. 4Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were
terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see — I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger." 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!" [15When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." 16So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.] P: The Gospel of the Lord. C: Praise to you, O Christ. Gospel Recessional Hymn: ELW#271 “I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve” verses 4 & 5 I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve Jeg er så glad hver julekveld 4 I am so glad each Christmas Eve! His praises then I sing; he opens now for ev'ry child the palace of the king.
5 And so I love each Christmas Eve, and I love Jesus too; and that he loves me ev'ry day I know so well is true. Text: Marie Wexelsen, 1832-1911; tr. Peter A. Sveeggen, 1881-1959 Text © 1932 Augsburg Publishing House, admin. Augsburg Fortress. Duplication in any form prohibited without permission or valid license from copyright administrator
Sermon Hymn of the Day ELW#300 “The First Noel”
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, 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 the Church P:
Joining our voices with the song of the angels, let us pray for the church, the world, and all who are in need.
A brief silence. A:
C: A:
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The shepherds sing, “Jesus Christ is born!” Let your church throughout the world proclaim this good news, over the hills and everywhere. Unite the voices of all your faithful people in songs of praise and rejoicing. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great. Heaven and nature sing, “Joy to the world!” Give respite to flocks, fields, and those who tend them. Come near to us in the beauty of nighttime, the shining of the stars, and the hush of a world at rest. May our wonder at your creation rouse our care for all the earth. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great. The angels sing, “Peace on earth!” Come quickly to still the strife of this world. Hush the noise of war and violence in places of unrest (especially). Inspire leaders of nations to seek lasting peace and sustainable provision for all in their care. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.
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Mary sings melodies of comfort to her newborn child. Bring rest and reassurance to those facing struggles this night. Shelter travelers and those without homes. Console those who lie awake due to pain or anxiety. Heal those who are sick or hurting (especially). Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great. Love sings through the sound of a new baby’s cry. Bless new parents and expectant parents. Comfort those who long for children, especially those running out of hope or options. Surround families of every shape and size with your love and care. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great. The heavenly chorus sings, “Glory to God in the highest!” We give you thanks for all the saints who have proclaimed your glory in word and deed (especially). Let us join them this night in joyful praise around your eternal throne (especially). Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.
Here other intercessions may be offered. P: C:
God of mercy, come quickly to us with grace upon grace as we lift these and all our prayers to you, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Peace P: C:
The peace of Christ be with you always. And also with you.
The Offering Please consider making your offering on line at www.ourshepherdlives.org and clicking “Please Place Your Offering Here” (the first choice on the right-hand side of your screen). You may also text the amount of your gift to 855-964-3732 and follow the prompts. Thank you very much. Choir Anthem: “Come and Dance” by Toby Young, Poem by Jennifer Thorp Come and dance upon the silvered winter ground all agleam with firelight from the open door and so brimmed with snow it gives up not a sound just as if we moved inside a world of pearl This is the merry dance of Christmas night This is the beat and swell of winter’s heart This is the message born upon the earth Come dance with us, let joy be everywhere Come and join the circle round the soaring pine sap as dark as honey shining on the bows crowned with candles brilliant with holly twined she is queen of Christmas this the forest knows This is the merry dance of Christmas night This is the beat and swell of winter’s heart This is the message born upon the earth Come dance with us, let joy be everywhere Come and hold my hand beneath the velvet night when the feast is over and the quiet comes As the bonfire forges a world of light Halo of embrace from flickers spun This is the merry dance of Christmas night
This is the beat and swell of winter’s heart This is the message born upon the earth Come dance with us, let joy be everywhere Come and sing the songs of season and of cheer Golden and resounding though he frost is nigh Christmas is the finest note of all the year Let us hear it rising in the hopeful sky This is the merry dance of Christmas night This is the beat and swell of winter’s heart This is the message born upon the earth Come dance with us Oh come and dance, oh come and dance Oh come and dance, Oh everybody! Oh come and dance, oh come and dance Oh come and dance, Oh everybody! Come and dance, Come and dance Come and dance, Come and dance Come and dance, Come and dance Come and dance, Everybody dance! Offertory Hymn: ELW#296 “What Child is This?” (verse 3) So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh; come, peasant, king, to own him. The King of kings salvation brings; let loving hearts enthrone him. Raise, raise the song on high, the virgin sings her lullaby; joy, joy, for Christ is born, the babe, the son of Mary!
Offertory Prayer A: C:
Let us pray. Blessed are you, O God, ruler of heaven and earth. Day by day you shower us with blessings. As you have raised us to new life in Christ, give us glad and generous hearts, ready to praise you and to respond to those in need, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen
Period of silence SERVICE OF LIGHT Pastor Olsen will invite you to light a candle in your home at this time.) Hymn: ELW#281 Silent Night”
P: C: P: C: P:
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The light shines in the darkness. But the darkness has not overcome it. The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray. Gracious God, we hear the glad tidings of your love and light. The Word was made flesh and lived among us. Clothed in our humanity, Jesus Christ is not ashamed to call us sisters and brothers, and claims us as your beloved children through our baptism. Help us to let our light so shine before others, that they may see our good works and give glory to you through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
Silence for reflection.
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 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, forever and ever. Amen. Silence for reflection. Benediction P:
C:
May you be filled with the wonder of Mary, the obedience of Joseph, the joy of the angels, the eagerness of the shepherds, the determination of the magi, and the peace of the Christ Child. Almighty God Father, + Son, and Holy Spirit bless you now and forever. Amen.
Dismissal A: C:
Go in peace. Christ is with you. Thanks be to God.
Postlude: “Christmas Fanfare” by Joseph M. Martin Rejoice, sing and alleluia and proclaim with jubilant song Rejoice, sing and alleluia for the time of singing has come Rejoice, sing and alleluia and proclaim with jubilant song Rejoice, sing and alleluia for the time of singing has come Fill the earth with the sound of glad music Fill the heavens with glorious praise Fill each heart with the jubilant gloria Let every voice be strong, lift up a joyful song Jubilant jubilant jubilant jubilant song! Rejoice, sing and alleluia and proclaim with jubilant song Rejoice, sing and alleluia for the time of singing has come Hark the herald angels sing, glory to the newborn King Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled Joyful all ye nations rise, join the triumph of the skies With angelic hosts proclaim, Christ is born in Bethlehem Hark the herald angels sing, glory ton the newborn King Rejoice, sing and alleluia and proclaim with jubilant song Rejoice, sing and alleluia for the time of singing has come Fill the earth with the sound of glad music Fill the heavens with glorious praise Fill each heart with the jubilant gloria Let every voice be strong, lift up a joyful song Jubilant jubilant jubilant jubilant song! Rejoice, sing and alleluia and proclaim with jubilant song Rejoice, sing and alleluia for the time of singing has come Rejoice, sing a jubilant song!
Sending Hymn ELW#267 “Joy to the World”
