Sunday, December 8, 2019

SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT

Preludes

Cold Frosty Morn; Basque Carol; 5^th Century Carol Medley Sea Raven, Celtic Harp

Welcome and Announcements

LIGHTING THE ADVENT WREATH

Advent Wreath Liturgy by Sister Marie Lucey of the Franciscan Action Network

Isaiah 11: 8-9: The baby shall play by the cobra’s den, and the child shall lay his hand on the adder’s lair. There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain. . .

Reflection: The context of this quote from the prophet Isaiah is Rule of Emmanuel. Following passages in social injustice and violence, Isaiah envisions a world of justice and peace where animals and children play together without fear. No child in this world should be hungry, or afraid, or mistreated, but many thousands of children today are hungry and live in fear. The United States, tragically, enacts policies that create trauma for children at our southern border. Between December, 2018 and June 2019, at least 8 children died in detention. Many reports provide evidence of unsafe and unhealthy conditions for immigrant children held in detention separated from parents or adult family members. Many people have been outraged at images of children in cold, crowded, unhealthy facilities and have taken action to challenge inhumane policies. Legislators in both parties deplored an order to deport seriously ill children who could die if deported. Advent gives us a challenge to shine the light on cruel treatment of children, and to work for the Rule of Emmanuel.

Prayer: Emmanuel, God-With-Us, shine your light of compassion on children and families treated inhumanely as they seek safety in the U.S. Shine your light of mercy in the hearts of government officials that they may be transformed. Shine your light of persistence on advocates for children. Amen.

Hymn: Isaiah the Prophet # 108

Sharing of Joys and Sorrows

Pastoral Prayer

Scripture Readings: Matthew 3:1-12; Romans 15: 4-13

Sermon: The Flame of Covenant: That’s the Way of the Lord Rev. M. Michael Morse

Responsive Sharing

Hymn: Sing a Different Song #150

(Substitute “Christmas is NEAR” for “Christmas is here.”)

Offering and Offertory I Wonder as I Wander (John Jacob Niles) Sea Raven, Celtic Harp

Sung Response: In the Bleak Mid-Winter (verse 4) #128

Closing Hymn: O Come Emmanuel #116

Taking the Light out into the World

BENEDICTION

Passing the Peace as we go…

All are invited to the Fellowship Hall, following service.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

It’s Christmas Sharing Tree Time! (spread the word) Over the past few years, St. James has made a new tradition. We hang gifts on the outdoor tree and invite the community to “Give what you can and take what you need.” Please donate unwrapped toys (new), or winter wear (new/good condition). See bins and supplies in breezeway.

Sunday, Dec. 8^th– 2^nd Sunday of Advent 10am – Sunday Schools: Adults meet in the Sanctuary to discuss faith, focused by Chs. 11&12 of The Phoenix Affirmations. Children (ages 5-11) do a Sunday School Service Project to make gift bags for Mobile Hope, which serves homeless teens. The goal is for the children to make up 20 gift bags. 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse

Sunday, Dec. 15^th– 3^rd Sunday of Advent: 9:30am – Council Meeting; all welcome; 11am – Worship led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle

Sunday, Dec. 22^nd – 4^th Sunday of Advent: 11am – Worship led by Rev. M. Michael Morse

Sunday, Dec. 24^th– Christmas Eve: 5pm – Candlelight Service led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lyle