December 24, 2009             Christmas Eve Service                      7:00 p.m..

WE GATHER TO WORSHIP GOD

Singing of Christmas Carols (suggestions from the congregation)

Prelude (people gathered in a reflective mood)                                        Joel Dizon     

+ Lighting of the Christ Candle                                   The Agsalud Family

        Family: We are reminded that in the last four Sundays we lighted candles of Hope, Grace, Joy, and Peace.

        Congregation: Tonight of Christmas Eve, we kneel with families all over the earth in the presence of the Most High. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. And now, the candle of Love, Jesus the Christ.

(Christ[mas] light is lit)

+ Opening Hymn                          “Joy to the World”                           UMH #246

+ Invocation                                                                                   Debbie Wise

      O Word of God incarnate, Light of the World, Abundant Life, be among your people today. You came to call us to follow you and to live the abundant life you bring. May we know your presence on this Christmas Day. Amen.

Welcome and Passing of the Peace                                           Pastor Fred

Choir Anthem                    “Carol of the Drum”                       Chancel Choir

                                               “Do You Hear What I Hear”                                                 

A Time to Worship Through Our Offering

An Offering of Talent

+ Doxology for Christmas                                                         

          Praise God whose dawn transfigures night,

          Whose Daystar shines for us on high,

          Whose Spirit brings into our sight

          The hope which to our world draws nigh. Amen.

+ Offertory Prayer                                                                                   Unison

          Thank you, God of love, for the promise of this season. We are grateful for the generosity aroused in us by Christ's coming into the world. May these gifts represent a new spirit of joyous sharing among us, for the sake of all your children everywhere. Amen.

Scripture Lessons                Isaiah 9:2-7 (OT 815)                          Debbie Wise

                                               Luke 2:1-20 (NT 86)

The Word for the World               Finally, Christmas!                         Pastor Fred  

+ Closing Hymn                    “Silent Night”                               UMH #239

(please light your candle while we sing “Silent Night;”

 you may also come forward to hang your special Christmas offering on the tree)

+ Closing Prayer and Benediction                                            Pastor Fred

Postlude                                                                                                Joel Dizon

Join us for fellowship downstairs!

Welcome Visitors/Guests!

We are happy you are worshiping with us! Please take the time to fill out the welcome pad as it is passed in your row. If you need assistance for settling in and/or serving in a faith community, please feel free to contact the pastor or anyone of us.

Glory to God in the Highest!