OOS 12-24-20

Thank you to our Worship Partners George Johnson and Tracey Wysor

Welcome and Announcements

Chalice Lighting by~ Rev. Sarah Richards 

Prelude: Organ Sonata Purcell played by Nonetta Shatakhtsian

Opening Words by Earl K. Holt

*Opening Carol: Oh Come, All Ye Faithful by John Francis Wade, performed by Brandon Hornsby-Selvin arranged and accompanied by Adam Podd

Unison Affirmation
Love is the spirit of this church
and service its mission
This is our great covenant
To dwell together in peace
To seek the truth in love
And to help one another

Reading by Barbara Rhode (adapted)

Birth 

Ancient Reading: Luke 2:1-7, The Birth of Jesus 

Modern Reading: “Unexpected” from Kneeling in Bethlehem by~ Ann Weems 

Offering 

Offertory: Starry Skies Descending Italian Christmas 18th century played by Nonetta Shatakhtsian

Visit of the Wise Men

Ancient Reading: Matthew 2:9-12

Modern Reading: Adapted from a fable by Leonard Wibberley 

Congregational Carol: We Three Kings of Orient Are performed by Julie Hassett, Laurie Tyce, Bruce Foresman, Bob Tyce, and Nonetta Shatakhtsian

The Angels visit the Shepherds 

Ancient Reading: Luke 2:8-20 

Modern Reading: “December” by Gary Johnson

Congregational Carol: The First Nowell performed by Denise Aiken, Julie Hassett, Laurie Tyce, and Nonetta Shatakhtsian

Homily

Musical Interlude What Child Is This? Arrangement by J. Kowalewski, performed by Tina Q. Kambil

Meditation By Rev. Andy Pakula 

Candle Lighting With a prayer by Lisa Rubin

*Congregational Carol: Silent Night performed by Laurie Tyce, Denise Aiken, Julie Hassett, Bob Tyce, Bruce Foresman and Nonetta Shatakhtsian

Benediction Adapted from a Blessing by Libby D. Stoddard