CANDLELIGHT COMMUNION SERVICE
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Prelude
Call to Worship
Anthem Choir/Charla Nunnelley, Soloist
“Down in the City of David”
The Lighting of the Advent Wreath
Responsive Litany
L: We are a people of hope. Our hearts are full of anticipation for
the coming of our beloved Christ Child. For God is to be among
us and we will see a great light in the midst of our night. Let us
light the Candle of Hope.
P: We are a people who seek peace. We know that God has told us to
turn our weapons of war into instruments that benefit all
humanity. In the name of that Child who was born long ago to
become the Prince of Peace, we now light the Candle of Peace.
L: Joy to the world! Our God is now coming to bring us “good news.”
May we sing songs of praise and gladness. We know that our Savior
reigns. Let us light the Candle of Joy.
P: We are a people who seek to be brought together by the love of
Christ. Our faith teaches us that God gives us unconditional love
and forgiveness. Acknowledging God’s free gift of grace, we light
the Candle of Love.
Invocation Dr. Larry W. Bishop
Hymn: “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” all verses 119
Scripture for Christmas Eve Luke 2: 15-20
Meditation Dr. Larry W. Bishop
“But You Were My Sun”
Anthem “The First Noel” Choir
Christmas Confession
Lighting of the Christ Candle
Invitation to Communion
Anthem “Strangers in Bethlehem” Choir
Words of Assurance
Prayers of Thanksgiving
Distribution of Elements
THE SERVICE OF CANDLELIGHTING
At this point in the service, light will be brought to each pew from
the central candle. The person on the aisle will share the light
from his or her candle with the person next in the pew, who will
then pass it on. As the last verse is sung, candles will be held high
so that the light we have may be seen from afar. The purpose of
this service is fulfilled only as we carry the light we have received
from Christ into the darkness and needs of the world.
Closing Hymn: all verses 145
“Silent Night, Holy Night”
The Benediction
Carol: “Joy to the World!” 143
Congregation may leave after singing the first stanza
Postlude: “Joy to the World!”
Remaining stanzas by the choir
JOYOUS CELEBRATION OF CHRIST’S BIRTH
Merry Christmas! Please feel free to linger and exchange greetings and glad tidings. Share the good news of Christ’s birth!