Worship January 3, 2021

EPIPHANY 

10:00 Am Virtual Service 

ORDER OF WORSHIP 

CENTERING PRAYER God of every nation, by the light of a wondrous star you led wandering magi to the humble infant Jesus, revealing to them your salvation for the world. In the miraculous and the mundane, in union with all who have glimpsed the light of your grace, lead us to Christ, that we may offer our worship and serve him with sincerity of heart; for he lives with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever. Amen. 

PRELUDE      Joyful Processional      Norlan 

WELCOME and ANNOUNCEMENTS 

CALL TO WORSHIP A star has risen 

Star of Wonder, star of night! 

A child is born in Bethlehem. 

Hark! The herald angels sing!

 Let us follow the star to Bethlehem 

And bring our gifts to the newborn Christ. † 

HYMN      “We Three Kings of Orient Are”      Hymnal #151

PRAYER OF CONFESSION 

God of wonder, God of night, you are holy light in dark places; you are holy darkness when all is too bright. Forgive us, O God, when we turn away from your light; when we follow our own ambitions instead of your call, when we respond to your presence with fear rather than joy. Forgive us, O God, when we do not comprehend the depth of your Christmas love, the meaning of your powerful story, or the call you place on each of our lives. Forgive us, O God, and by your forgiveness, empower us to follow the star once more. (Silent Confession) 

ASSURANCE OF GRACE  

†SHARING THE PEACE OF CHRIST 

The peace of Christ be with you. And also, with you.

† HYMN      “Awake, Awake, and Greet the New Morn”      Hymnal #107 

SCRIPTURE      Matthew 2:1-12 

SERMON      “Traveling with ‘2020’ Vision”      Rev. MP Panco 

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH From a Brief Statement of Faith 11.1-11.6 

In life and in death we belong to God. Through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, we trust in the one triune God, the Holy One of Israel, whom alone we worship and serve. 

OFFERING 

SPECIAL MUSIC Quelle est cette Odeur Agreable (What Is That Lovely Fragrance) arr. Page

† THE DOXOLOGY

THE CELEBRATION OF HOLY COMMUNION

 Invitation to the Table 

Great Prayer of Thanksgiving and the Lord’s Prayer 

Words of Institution   

Sharing of the Bread & Cup   

Prayer After Communion

 † HYMN      “O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go”      Hymnal #833 

† CHARGE AND BLESSING 

† BENEDICTION RESPONSE      “Peace On the Earth”      Sussex Carol

 POSTLUDE     Angels from the Realm of Glory      arr. Long