Christmas 2, January 10, 2021

Holy Eucharist
St. Paul’s Parish, Charlottetown, PEI
January 10, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
Christmas 2
 
The Gathering of the Community
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
and the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
be with you all.
And also with you.
 
Almighty God,
to you all hearts are open,
all desires known,
and from you no secrets are hidden.
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts
by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit,
that we may perfectly love you,
and worthily magnify your holy name;
through Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
Hymn 118: O Come, All Ye Faithful (verses 1-4 & 5a)
 
The Collect of the Day
Let us pray,
God of power and life, the glory of all who believe in you, fill the world with your splendour and show the nations the light of your truth; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Proclamation of the Word: The Gospel: John 1:1-18
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark.
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.'") From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father's heart, who has made him known.
The Gospel of Christ.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
 
Sermon
 
Prayers of the People
In this New Year let us bless God for the gift of salvation and offer prayers for the church and for the world, saying: Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
For the Church: especially Linda, our Primate, and Sandra, our bishop, that through us God's light may shine forth on all who live in darkness, confusion, and fear.
Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
For this parish of St. Paul’s, that we may welcome all those whom God leads to us and be blessed through the diverse gifts and talents which they bring.
Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
For all who live and work in places of danger, that the Prince of Peace may lead all who are the children of the one God to seek peace and justice.
Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
For all who we miss and who were away from home, that like the Shepherds and the Magi, God will guide their footsteps, and bring them in safety, to the place where they would be.
Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
For all who suffer from the Covid-19 and those who care for them, and for those who live in the shadows of fear, violence, and poverty, that, in Christ, they may find healing, hope, and peace.
Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
We pray for the sick, the suffering, and those in distress of any kind especially…;
-
… and others we may name out loud, or in our hearts…
-
that you would heal all injuries, comfort all grief, and settle all wrongs.
Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
For those who have died in this past year, that they may rejoice in the light of God’s incarnate Word.
Glory and praise to you, O living God.
 
Lifting our voices with all creation, with Mary, the God-bearer, blessed Joseph, and all the saints and angels, let us offer ourselves and one another to the living God through Christ.
To you, O Lord our God.
 
O God of everlasting glory, accept the prayers we offer you in this joyful season, and grant that as we celebrate this mystery of your love, we may also delight in the joy that will be ours as children and heirs of your kingdom. Glory to you for ever and ever. Amen.
 
Confession and Absolution
Let us confess our sins, confident in God’s forgiveness.
 
Silence is kept.
 
Most merciful God,
we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us, that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.
 
Almighty God have mercy upon you,
pardon and deliver you from all your sins,
confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,
and keep you in eternal life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
The Peace
The peace of the Lord be always with you.
And also with you.
 
Announcements
 
Hymn 135: Shepherds In the Field Abiding
 
The Celebration of the Eucharist
The Prayer over the Gifts
Let us pray,
Source of love and life, receive all we offer you this day, and through the coming of your Son, help us to see in others him who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Great Thanksgiving: Eucharistic Prayer 2
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
 
We give you thanks and praise, almighty God, through your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Redeemer. He is your living Word, through whom you have created all things.
 
By the power of the Holy Spirit he took flesh of the Virgin Mary and shared our human nature. He lived and died as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all.
 
In fulfilment of your will he stretched out his hands in suffering, to bring release to those who place their hope in you; and so he won for you a holy people.
 
He chose to bear our griefs and sorrows, and to give up his life on the cross, that he might shatter the chains of evil and death, and banish the darkness of sin and despair. By his resurrection he brings us into the light of your presence.
 
Now with all creation we raise our voices to proclaim the glory of your name.
Holy, holy, holy Lord,
God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
 
Holy and gracious God, accept our praise, through your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ; who on the night he was handed over to suffering and death, took bread and gave you thanks, saying, “Take, and eat: this is my body which is broken for you.” In the same way he took the cup, saying, “This is my blood which is shed for you. When you do this, you do it in memory of me.”
 
Remembering, therefore, his death and resurrection, we offer you this bread and this cup, giving thanks that you have made us worthy to stand in your presence and serve you.
 
We ask you to send your Holy Spirit upon the offering of your holy Church. Gather into one all who share in these sacred mysteries, filling them with the Holy Spirit and confirming their faith in the truth, that together we may praise you and give you glory through your Servant, Jesus Christ.
 
All glory and honour are yours, Father and Son, with the Holy Spirit in the holy Church, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Lord’s Prayer
As our Saviour taught us, let us pray,
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Breaking of the Bread
We break the bread of life,
and that life is the light of the world.
God here among us,
light in the midst of us,
bring us to light and life.
 
The gifts of God for the People of God.
Thanks be to God.
 
Lamb of God
 
Hymn during… 132: Of Eternal Love Begotten (verses 1, 3-5)
 
Prayer After Communion
Let us pray
Light eternal, you have nourished us in the mystery of the body and blood of your Son. By your grace keep us ever faithful to your word, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
The doxology
Glory to God,
whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more
than we can ask or imagine.
Glory to God from generation to generation,
in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.
 
Blessing
May the God of infinite goodness
scatter the darkness of sin
and brighten your hearts with holiness;
and the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be among you and remain with you always. Amen.
 
Hymn: We Three Kings
 
The Scattering
Go forth into the world,
rejoicing in the birth of our Savior.
Thanks be to God.

December 27, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.

Holy Eucharist
St. Paul’s Parish, Charlottetown, PEI
December 27, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Christmas 1
 
The Gathering of the Community
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
and the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
be with you all.
And also with you.
 
Almighty God,
to you all hearts are open,
all desires known,
and from you no secrets are hidden.
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts
by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit,
that we may perfectly love you,
and worthily magnify your holy name;
through Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
Hymn 123: Once In Royal David’s City
 
The Collect of the Day
Let us pray,
Almighty God, you have shed upon us the new light of your incarnate Word. May this light, enkindled in our hearts, shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Proclamation of the Word:
The Gospel: Luke 2:22-40
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke.
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, Jesus' parents brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord"), and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons." Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, "Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel." And the child's father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, "This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed and a sword will pierce your own soul too." There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshipped there with fasting and prayer night and day. At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favour of God was upon him.
The Gospel of Christ.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
 
Sermon
 
Prayers of the People
In joy and humility let us pray to the creator of the universe, saying, Hear our prayer.
 
In the poverty of our humanity, we have become all we need, by the good news of our salvation brought to Mary by the angel, God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
We have been made holy by the mystery of the Word made flesh, God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
Your eternal love, O God, is made known to all creation by the birth in time of the timeless Son of God. So much heartache, pain and grief were felt this year that we rejoice in the promise of your presence. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
Even those who have leadership roles in this world: political; religious; education; business; and in the arts can choose wisdom by the manifestation of the King of glory to the shepherds and magi, God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
We have learnt humility by the submission of the maker of the world to Mary and Joseph of Nazareth, may we show that same humility in serving one another, God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
We have the opportunity to be committed to forgiveness, mercy, love and peace by the baptism of the Son of God in the river Jordan, and we look with joyful expectation to the new year, God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
Grant that the powers of this world may join together in the unity of all peoples in the realm of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, that all of us may work for the common good; God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for the sick, the suffering, and those in distress of any kind especially…;
- …
… and others we may name out loud, or in our hearts…
-
that you would heal all injuries, comfort all grief, and settle all wrongs. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
 
O God, your love was so great for us that you gave us your Son to shine out in our darkness. Help us to make that love known to all the world, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
Confession and Absolution
Let us confess our sins, confident in God’s forgiveness.
 
Silence is kept.
 
Most merciful God,
we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us, that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.
 
Almighty God have mercy upon you,
pardon and deliver you from all your sins,
confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,
and keep you in eternal life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
The Peace
The peace of the Lord be always with you.
And also with you.
 
Announcements
 
Hymn 151: All Poor Fold and Humble
 
The Celebration of the Eucharist
The Prayer over the Gifts
Let us pray,
God of light, in the birth of your Son we see your glory. May we who share in this mystery grow daily in your love. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
 
The Great Thanksgiving: Eucharistic Prayer 3
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
 
Blessed are you, gracious God, creator of heaven and earth, because in the mystery of the Word made flesh you have caused a new light to shine in our hearts, to give knowledge of salvation in the face of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now with angels and archangels and the whole company of heaven, we lift our voices to proclaim the glory of your name.
 
Holy, holy, holy Lord,
God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
 
We give thanks to you, Lord our God, for the goodness and love you have made known to us in creation; in calling Israel to be your people; in your Word spoken through the prophets; and above all in the Word made flesh, Jesus your Son. For in these last days you sent him to be incarnate from the Virgin Mary, to be the Saviour and Redeemer of the world. In him, you have delivered us from evil, and made us worthy to stand before you. In him, you have brought us out of error into truth, out of sin into righteousness, out of death into life.
 
On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, a death he freely accepted, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”
 
After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”
 
Therefore, Father, according to his command,
we remember his death,
we proclaim his resurrection,
we await his coming in glory;
and we offer our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to you, Lord of all; presenting to you, from your creation, this bread and this wine.
 
We pray you, gracious God, to send your Holy Spirit upon these gifts, that they may be the sacrament of the body of Christ and his blood of the new covenant. Unite us to your Son in his sacrifice, that we, made acceptable in him, may be sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
 
In the fullness of time, reconcile all things in Christ, and make them new, and bring us to that city of light where you dwell with all your sons and daughters; through Jesus Christ our Lord, the firstborn of all creation, the head of the Church, and the author of our salvation;
 
by whom, and with whom, and in whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory are yours, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Lord’s Prayer
As our Saviour taught us, let us pray,
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Breaking of the Bread
We break the bread of life,
and that life is the light of the world.
God here among us,
light in the midst of us,
bring us to light and life.
 
The gifts of God for the People of God.
Thanks be to God.
 
Lamb of God
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
have mercy on us.
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
have mercy on us.
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
grant us your peace.
 
Hymn during…
131: Love Came Down at Christmas
 
Prayer After Communion
Let us pray
Source of truth and joy, may we who have received the gift of divine life always follow the way of your Son. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
 
The doxology
Glory to God,
whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more
than we can ask or imagine.
Glory to God from generation to generation,
in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.
 
Blessing
May the God of infinite goodness
scatter the darkness of sin
and brighten your hearts with holiness;
and the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be among you and remain with you always. Amen.
 
Hymn 143: Angels From the Realms of Glory
 
The Scattering
Go forth into the world,
rejoicing in the birth of our Savior.
Thanks be to God.

Christmas Eve 2020

Christmas Eve 2020
4:00 pm, 6:00 pm & 8:00 pm

The Gathering of the Community

Hymn 118: O Come, All Ye Faithful (v 1-5)
 
The Gathering
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
and the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
be with you all.
And also with you.
 
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
May all the earth be filled with his glory.
Light has sprung up for the righteous,
And joyful gladness for those who are true-hearted.
Glory to God in the highest,
And peace to his people on earth.
 
The Advent Wreath:
Let us pray in the peace of this Christmas celebration that our joy in the birth of Christ will last for ever.
 
Prayer
Eternal God, who made this most holy night to shine with the brightness of your one true light: bring us, who have known the revelation of that light on earth, to see the radiance of your heavenly glory; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
Candle Light, Sacred Light - Tune - Silent Night
Candle light, sacred light.
Mystery flames, burning bright
Hope, joy and peace are the gifts of this night.
Love poured out over all within sight.
Shine your light in our world; shine your light in our world
© Catherine MacDonald 2006 (full permission given to use with acknowledgement)
Pastor in United Church of Canada
Halifax, Nova Scotia

The Collect
Let us pray,
O God our Father, whose Word has come among us in the Holy Child of Bethlehem, may the light of faith illumine our hearts and shine in our words and deeds; through him who is Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
Hymn 120: O Little Town of Bethlehem
 
The Proclamation of the Word: The Holy Gospel: Luke 2:1-20
 
Sermon
 
Anthem (8:00 only): Christ Is Born This Holy Night
 
The Prayers of the Community
We join together at this holy time to praise God, the creator and maker of all saying, “Hear our prayer.”
 
We give thanks for the birth of Jesus the Christ-child, born in Bethlehem, the city of David, of the line of David’s family, to be the Saviour of the world. We are grateful, O God, that you have made it possible for your Spirit to be born in each of us; that we may rejoice that you have blessed humanity and all of creation by your presence in the world. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We give thanks that messengers were sent to the shepherds, with news of great joy and peace for the whole world. We are grateful, O God, that the Good News is a comfort to the weak and a challenge to the strong; that we may embrace and ever hold fast to the Gospel proclaiming your love. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We give thanks that Magi, wise people from the east, came to worship the One born in time, the timeless Son of God, God with us, God with everyone. We are grateful, O God, that your people everywhere are blessed with the spirit of love; that we may worship fully and without fear. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We give thanks for the Holy Family, for Joseph and Mary, who lived as refugees in a time of great cruelty and hardship, and we ask you to look with mercy on all who are poor, powerless and who suffer. We are grateful, O God, that this extraordinary story of a birth, so long ago, fills us with hope and courage to do your will in this world. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
O God, grant an abundance of peace to your world; we pray for all your creatures, of land and sea and air; we pray for streams, rivers and oceans; we give thanks for all of creation; we pray for people of every nation, race and language. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
O God, we pray for those who are without a home; without food or water; we pray for refugees and those who are persecuted for their beliefs. We seek your protection, for families and this community; we pray for those who are suffering from Covid-19; for health care providers; for those we miss because of travel restrictions; for those who work and who are on duty this evening (for emergency workers, doctors and nurses, ambulance attendants, fire fighters, forces personnel). God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for those in particular need; for the sick and the suffering, especially those who are dear to us. Rejoicing in the fellowship we share – we pray for the faithful departed, (especially for:
-        
… we commend ourselves and all people to your unfailing love. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
O God, your love was so great for us that you gave us your Son to be born in the world and to shine in our darkness. Help us to make your light and love known in all the world, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
Confession and Absolution
Let us confess our sins,
confident in God’s forgiveness.
 
Most merciful God,
we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us, that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.
 
Almighty God have mercy upon you,
pardon and deliver you from all your sins,
confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,
and keep you in eternal life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
 
The Peace
The peace of the Lord be always with you
and also with you.
 
Announcements
 
Hymn-during-the-offertory: 138: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
 
The Celebration of the Holy Eucharist
The Prayer Over the Gifts
Let us pray,
Generous Creator, in faith and joy we celebrate the birth of your Son. Increase our understanding and our love of the riches you have revealed in him, who is Lord now and for ever. Amen.
 
Supplementary Eucharistic Prayer 2 (S2)
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord. 
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. 
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Eternal God, Source of all being, we give you thanks and praise for your faithful love. You call us into friendship with you and one another to be your holy people, a sign of your presence in the world.

When those we trust betray us, unfailingly you remain with us. When we injure others, you confront us in your love and call us to the paths of righteousness. You stand with the weak, and those, broken and alone, whom you have always welcomed home, making the first last, and the last first. Therefore we raise our voices with angels and archangels, forever praising you and saying (singing): 

Holy, holy, holy Lord,
God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.

Blessed are you, O Holy One: when Hagar was driven into the wilderness you followed her and gave her hope. When Joseph was sold into bondage, you turned malice to your people’s good. When you called Israel out of slavery, you brought them through the wilderness into the promised land. When your people were taken into exile you wept with them by the river of Babylon and carried them home.
Restore us, O God, let your face shine!

At the right time you sent your Anointed One to stand with the poor, the outcast, and the oppressed. Jesus touched lepers, and the sick, and healed them.

He accepted water from a woman of Samaria and offered her the water of new life. Christ knew the desolation of the cross and opened the way for all humanity into the redemption of your reconciling love.

On the night he was betrayed, Jesus, at supper with his friends, took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to them, and said, “Take and eat: this is my body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”

After supper he took the cup of wine, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”
Loving and Holy One, recalling Christ’s death and resurrection, we offer you these gifts, longing for the bread of tomorrow and the wine of the age to come.
Dying you destroyed our death,
rising you restored our life.
Lord Jesus, come in glory.

Pour out your Spirit on these gifts that through them you may sustain us in our hunger for your peace. We hold before you all whose lives are marked by suffering, our sisters and brothers. When we are broken and cast aside, embrace us in your love.
Restore us, O God, let your face shine!

Through Christ, with Christ, and in Christ in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory are yours, O Source of all life, now and for ever. Amen.
 
 
The Lord’s Prayer
Rejoicing in the presence of God here among us,
as our Saviour taught us, so we pray
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
 
Breaking of the Bread
We break the bread of life,
and that life is the light of the world.
God here among us,
light in the midst of us,
bring us to light and life.
 
Giving of Communion
Christ is the true bread
which has come down from heaven.
Lord, give us this bread always.
 
Lamb of God
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
have mercy on us.
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
have mercy on us.
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
grant us your peace.
 
Hymn-during-communion: 126: Away in a Manger
 
Music
 
Hymn 119: Silent Night
 
The Sending Forth of the Community

Prayer after Communion
Let us pray,
Source of truth and joy, may we who have received the gift of divine life always follow the way of your Son. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
 
A doxology
Praise God for gifts of hope and peace
Praise God for gifts of joy and love
Praise God for sending Christ to dwell
On earth for us – Emmanuel. Amen.
 
The Blessing
May the God of infinite goodness
scatter the darkness of sin
and brighten your hearts with holiness;
and the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be among you and remain with you always. Amen.
 
Hymn 154: Joy to the World
 
The Scattering (Mark 4:20)
Alleluia! Go in peace.
Proclaim the birth of the Saviour.
Glory, thanks and praise to God.
Alleluia! 

December 20, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. Advent IV

Holy Eucharist

St. Paul’s Parish, Charlottetown, PEI
December 20, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Advent IV
 
The Gathering of the Community
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
and the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
be with you all.
And also with you.
 
The Lighting of the Advent Wreath – Love
Let us pray,
Dear God, love is a candle shining in the dark places of our lives. We pray that our faith may be renewed once again as we await your coming. May we always be aware of the wonder of your love in our lives. In the name of Jesus the Christ, we pray. Amen.
 
Song: Candle Light, Sacred Light
Candle light, sacred light.
Mystery flames, burning bright
We are waiting for Jesus' new birth.
Shine his love over all of the earth.
Thanks for the gift of love, thanks for the gift of love.
© Catherine MacDonald 2006 (full permission given to use with acknowledgement)
Pastor in United Church of Canada
Halifax, Nova Scotia
 
The Collect of the Day
Let us pray,
Heavenly Father, who chose the Virgin Mary, full of grace, to be the mother of our Lord and Saviour, now fill us with your grace, that we in all things may embrace your will and with her rejoice in your salvation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
Hymn 89: O Come, O Come Emmanuel (versus 1, 3, 4, 7)
 
The Proclamation of the Word: The Gospel: Luke 1:26-38
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke.
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favoured one! The Lord is with you." But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God." Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.
The Gospel of Christ.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
 
Sermon
 
Prayers of the People
In this Season of Advent, we pray for ourselves and the world, placing before you our hope, confident in your peace, mindful of your joy, basking in your love, saying, hear our prayer.
 
Let us ask the Lord for a day of fulfilment and peace and to teach us to love others as he has loved us. Let us ask the Lord for peace and mercy in the world and to strengthen and relieve those who are in need. Let us ask the Lord to renew the Church through the power of the life-giving Spirit. God of love:
               Hear our prayer.
We are watchful at all times, we pray for strength to stand with confidence before you, O God, our Maker and Redeemer. Help us to live in the light of your coming and give us a longing for your realm of justice and mercy. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
We pray that you will establish among the nations your rule of righteousness, come to your world as King of nations, King of our hearts. We pray for you Church throughout the world, especially as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of the Christ-child. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
We pray that we may seek Christ in holy scriptures, know him in the breaking of bread, and recognize him in one another. Break into our lives, where we struggle with sickness and distress, and set us free to serve you forever. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
We pray that you will bind up the brokenhearted, restore the sick and raise up all who have fallen, we pray for those we know who are ill at home or in the hospital, remembering especially…
-
… and others we may name out loud, or in our hearts…
-
God of love:
Hear our prayer.
We pray that your light may dawn on all who live in darkness and the shadow of death, and come to us as shepherd and guardian of our souls. We pray for the crew of the Chief William Saulis scallop boat and for their loved ones. We remember those who have died in your peace and whose faith is known to you alone, especially…
- Master Sailor Duane Earle,
…that, with all the saints in light, we may shine forth as lights for the world, God of love:
Hear our prayer.
We give thanks for frontline workers and health care providers who work so hard to keep us safe in the midst of this pandemic. We are hopeful that there are vaccines available and that we are inching towards a time beyond this current situation. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
Almighty God, as your blessed Son Jesus Christ first came to seek and to save the lost; so may he come again to find in us the completion of his redeeming work; for he is now alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.
 
Confession and Absolution
Let us confess our sins, confident in God’s forgiveness.
Silence is kept.
Most merciful God,
we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us, that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.
Almighty God have mercy upon you,
pardon and deliver you from all your sins,
confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,
and keep you in eternal life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
The Peace
The peace of the Lord be always with you.
And also with you.
 
Announcements
 
Hymn 148: See Amid the Winter’s Snow
 
The Celebration of the Eucharist
The Prayer over the Gifts
Let us pray,
Gracious God, by the power of the Spirit who sanctified the mother of your Son, make holy all we offer you this day. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
 
The Great Thanksgiving: Eucharistic Prayer 3
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Blessed are you, gracious God, creator of heaven and earth; we give you thanks and praise through Jesus Christ our Lord, who in the fullness of time came among us in our flesh, and opened to us the way of salvation. Now we watch for the day when he will come again in power and great triumph to judge this world, that we, without shame or fear, may rejoice to behold his appearing. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who for ever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your name.
Holy, holy, holy Lord,
God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
We give thanks to you, Lord our God, for the goodness and love you have made known to us in creation; in calling Israel to be your people; in your Word spoken through the prophets; and above all in the Word made flesh, Jesus your Son. For in these last days you sent him to be incarnate from the Virgin Mary, to be the Saviour and Redeemer of the world. In him, you have delivered us from evil, and made us worthy to stand before you. In him, you have brought us out of error into truth, out of sin into righteousness, out of death into life.
 
On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, a death he freely accepted, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”
 
After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”
 
Therefore, Father, according to his command,
we remember his death,
we proclaim his resurrection,
we await his coming in glory;
and we offer our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to you, Lord of all; presenting to you, from your creation, this bread and this wine.
 
We pray you, gracious God, to send your Holy Spirit upon these gifts, that they may be the sacrament of the body of Christ and his blood of the new covenant. Unite us to your Son in his sacrifice, that we, made acceptable in him, may be sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
 
In the fullness of time, reconcile all things in Christ, and make them new, and bring us to that city of light where you dwell with all your sons and daughters; through Jesus Christ our Lord, the firstborn of all creation, the head of the Church, and the author of our salvation;
 
by whom, and with whom, and in whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory are yours, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Lord’s Prayer
As our Saviour taught us, let us pray,
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Breaking of the Bread
God of promise,
you prepare a banquet for us in your kingdom.
Happy are those who are called
to the supper of the Lamb.
 
The gifts of God for the People of God.
Thanks be to God.
 
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
have mercy on us.
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
have mercy on us.
Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world
grant us your peace.
 
Hymn during… 117: Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming
 
Prayer After Communion
Let us pray
Faithful God, in this sacrament we receive the promise of salvation. May we, like the Virgin Mary, be obedient to your will. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
 
The doxology
Glory to God,
whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more
than we can ask or imagine.
Glory to God from generation to generation,
in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.
 
Blessing
Be steadfast in faith, joyful in hope,
and untiring in love all the days of your life;
and the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be among you and remain with you always. Amen.
 
Hymn 91: People, Look East!
 
The Scattering
Go forth into the world,
rejoicing in the Love of God the Creator.
Thanks be to God.