Prayers – Christmas ii – Online
January 2, 2022, 10:00 a.m.
 
Welcome
 
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.
 
Preparation
O Lord, open our lips
and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.
You laid the foundation of the earth
and the heavens are the work of your hands. Alleluia.
 
Blessed are you, sovereign God, creator of heaven and earth, to you be praise and glory for ever.
As your living Word, eternal in heaven, assumed the frailty of our mortal flesh, may the light of your love be born in us to fill our hearts with joy as we sing:
Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Blessed be God for ever.
 
Hymn 139: The First Nowell
 
Canticle 7: The New Jerusalem (Isaiah 60.1–3, 11ab, 14cd, 18–19)
Arise, shine, for your light has come; * the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Though night still covers the earth * and darkness covers the nations,
Arise, shine, for your light has come.
 
Over you will the Lord arise, * over you will his glory appear.
Nations will stream to your light * and kings to your dawning brightness.
Arise, shine, for your light has come.
 
Your gates will always be open; * day or night, they will never be shut.
They will call you, The City of the Lord, * The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.
Arise, shine, for your light has come.
 
Violence will no more be heard in your land, * ruin or destruction within your borders;
you will name your walls, Salvation, * you will call your gates, Praise.
Arise, shine, for your light has come.
 
No longer will the sun be your light by day, * no longer the moon give you light by night;
the Lord will be your eternal light; * your God will be your glory
Arise, shine, for your light has come.
 
First Reading: Ephesians 3:1-12
A Reading from The Letter Of Paul To The Ephesians
This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles - for surely you have already heard of the commission of God's grace that was given me for you, and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: that is, the Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God's grace that was given me by the working of his power. Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God
 
Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:1-12
A Reading from The Gospel according to Matthew
In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage." When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: 'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel. '" Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage." When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God
 
Sermon
 
Song: Do You Hear What I Hear?, solo: Katherine Lowings
 
The Prayers of the Community
As we join the angels, shepherds and magi to celebrate with joy the birth of Jesus Christ, let us offer prayers to God, who shines the light of Christ on all creation, saying: “Hear our prayer.”
 
O God, we pray for the Church in all places, remembering especially Linda, our Primate, and Sandra, our bishop, that our worship and praise may give you glory, and our witness and ministry bring new hope to many. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for this Parish of St. Paul’s, that we may show the good news of your saving love and be instruments of peace to all who walk the human journey with us. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for all who live in Bethlehem and the hill country of Judah, and for Christians, Jews, and Muslims everywhere, that your spirit will open new pathways of peace and hope to all who live in danger and fear. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for our nation, that you will preserve public peace, and guide all leaders to new cooperation in addressing the needs of those who are unemployed, hungry, or homeless. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for all those who are caring for others, that you will strengthen and protect healthcare workers, public safety and utility workers, and those who care for the poor and vulnerable. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for those whose lives are touched by fear, anxiety, or depression, and for all those in need of our prayers,
- …
that Christ will bring healing, light and hope to their hearts. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We give thanks for all your blessings, that we may receive them with gratitude, and rejoice that Christ is born again in our hearts, and in our lives. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
We pray for those who have died, remembering especially…
-
that they may rejoice in the light of your incarnate Word. God of love.
Hear our prayer.
 
Source of light and gladness, accept the prayers we offer on this joyful feast. May the Rising Sun of Christ spread across the world, and brighten all humanity. Glory to God in the Highest and peace among those whom God favors. Amen.
 
Confession and Absolution
Christ the light of the world has come
to dispel the darkness of our hearts.
Let us turn to the light and confess our sins.
 
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 128: The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy
 
Collect
Let us pray,
Eternal God, who by a star led magi to the worship of your Son. Guide by your light the nations of the earth, that the whole world may know your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to the king's son;
That he may rule your people righteously and the poor with justice;
That the mountains may bring prosperity to the people, and the little hills bring righteousness.
All nations shall serve him.
 
He shall defend the needy among the people; he shall rescue the poor and crush the oppressor.
He shall live as long as the sun and moon endure, from one generation to another.
He shall come down like rain upon the mown field, like showers that water the earth.
In his time shall the righteous flourish; there shall be abundance of peace till the moon shall be no more.
All nations shall serve him.
 
The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall pay tribute, and the kings of Arabia and Saba offer gifts.
All kings shall bow down before him, and all the nations do him service.
For he shall deliver the poor who cries out in distress, and the oppressed who has no helper.
All nations shall serve him.
 
He shall have pity on the lowly and poor; he shall preserve the lives of the needy.
He shall redeem their lives from oppression and violence, and dear shall their blood be in his sight.
All nations shall serve him.
 
 
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.
 
Announcements
 
Hymn 138: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
 
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.
 
The Scattering
Alleluia! Go forth into the world,
rejoicing in the birth of our Savior.
Thanks be to God. Alleluia!

 
Christmas Eve 2021
St. Paul’s Church, Charlottetown, PEI – ONLINE
 
Welcome 
 
Preparation 
O God, make speed to save us.
         O Lord, make haste to help us.
Reveal among us the light of your presence
         that we may behold your power and glory.
 
Blessed are you, Sovereign God, creator of light and darkness, to you be glory and praise for ever.
 
As evening falls, you renew your promise to reveal among us the light of your presence.
 
May your word be a lantern to our feet and a light upon our path that we may behold your coming among us.
 
Strengthen us in our stumbling weakness and free our tongues to sing your praise.
 
Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Blessed be God for ever.
 
Hymn 118: O Come, All Ye Faithful (v 1-5) 
 
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.
 
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 
 
The Collect 
Let us pray,
Almighty God, you wonderfully created and yet more wonderfully restored our human nature. May we share the divine life of your Son Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to share our humanity, and now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
The Proclamation of the Word 
A Reading From The Book Of Isaiah
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, "Your God reigns." Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices, together they sing for joy; for in plain sight they see the return of the Lord to Zion. Break forth together into singing, you ruins of Jerusalem; for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. The Lord has bared his holy arm before the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God. (52:7-10)
Hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church
         Thanks be to God
 
 
Psalm 98 
Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvellous things. With his right hand and his holy arm has he won for himself the victory.
         All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
The Lord has made known his victory; his righteousness has he openly shown in the sight of the nations. He remembers his mercy and faithfulness to the house of Israel, and all the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God.
         All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Shout with joy to the Lord, all you lands; lift up your voice, rejoice, and sing. Sing to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the voice of song.
         All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn shout with joy before the King, the Lord. Let the sea make a noise and all that is in it, the lands and those who dwell therein.
         All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Let the rivers clap their hands, and let the hills ring out with joy before the Lord, when he comes to judge the earth. In righteousness shall he judge the world and the peoples with equity.
         All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
 
A Reading From The Letter To The Hebrews 
Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God's glory and the exact imprint of God's very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son; today I have begotten you"? Or again, "I will be his Father, and he will be my Son"? And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him." Of the angels he says, "He makes his angels winds, and his servants flames of fire." But of the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, and the righteous sceptre is the sceptre of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions." And, "In the beginning, Lord, you founded the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands; they will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like clothing; like a cloak you will roll them up, and like clothing they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years will never end." (1:1-12)
Hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church
         Thanks be to God
 
“O Holy Night” 
 
The Holy Gospel: John 1:1-14 
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
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.
The Gospel of Christ.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
 
Sermon
 
Hymn 121: O Little Town of Bethlehem 
 
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, and 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 
Christ the light of the world has come
to dispel the darkness of our hearts.
Let us turn to the light and confess our sins.
 
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.
 
126: Away in a Manger 
 
Announcements 
 
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.
 
Hymn 119: Silent Night 
 
 
The Sending Forth of the Community 
May the Lord, when he comes,
find us watching and waiting. Amen.
 
Let us bless the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.
Thanks be to God. Alleluia, alleluia.
 
The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light.
For to us a child is born
to us a Son is given.
His name will be called
Wonderful counsellor, mighty God,
the everlasting Father,
the Prince of Peace.
Glory to God in the highest
and peace to God’s people on earth.
 
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!

Holy Eucharist, December 19, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Advent IV

 
Holy Eucharist
St. Paul’s Parish, Charlottetown, PEI
December 19, 2021 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 363: My Soul Proclaims Your Glory, Lord
 
The Proclamation of the Word: The Gospel: Luke 1:39-55
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 those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord." And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
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.
 
We pray at this time for a day of fulfilment and peace: teach us to love others as you love us. Let your peace and mercy reign in this world, that we may be strengthen to relieve those who are in need. 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 just rule, that we may live in right relationship with you, with one another, and with all creation. We pray for your 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 all sorts of distress, and free us to serve you by addressing the sorrows of poverty, discrimination and selfishness. 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 in the shadow of death, and come to us as shepherd and guardian of our souls. We remember those who have died in your peace and whose faith is known to you alone, especially…
-
…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 vaccines are made available to everyone and together we will move 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 109: When the King Shall Come Again
 
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…
269: Heavenly Message
132: Of Eternal Love Begotten
131: Love Came Down at Christmas
Emmanuel (P 16)
 
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 89: O Come, O Come Emmanuel

The Scattering
Go forth into the world,
rejoicing in the Love of God the Creator.
Thanks be to God.

The Holy Eucharist December 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.

 
The Holy Eucharist
St. Paul’s Parish, Charlottetown, PEI
December 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.
Advent III
 
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.
 
The Lighting of the Advent Wreath – Joy
Let us pray,
Dear God, we pray for the joy that is found in Jesus, that those who seek it may truly find it. May we celebrate the joy found in You and share that joy so all may be guided by the Christ light shining in our hearts and in the world. Amen.
 
Song: Candle Light, Sacred Light

	Candle light, sacred light. Mystery flames, burning bright We are waiting for Jesus' new birth. Shine his joy over all of the earth. Thanks for the gift of joy, thanks for the gift of joy.
			© 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,
God of power and mercy, you call us once again to celebrate the coming of your Son. Remove those things which hinder love of you, that when he comes, he may find us waiting in awe and wonder for him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
 
Hymn 105: Where Jordon Cuts the Wilderness
 
The Proclamation of the Word
First Reading: Philippians 4:4-7
A Reading From The Letter Of Paul To The Philippians
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  
Hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church
Thanks be to God
 
The Gospel: Luke 3:7-18
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.
John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." And the crowds asked him, "What then should we do?" In reply he said to them, "Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise." Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, "Teacher, what should we do?" He said to them, "Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you." Soldiers also asked him, "And we, what should we do?" He said to them, "Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages." As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, John answered all of them by saying, "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.
The Gospel of Christ.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
 
Sermon
 
The 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.
 
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. Guide us in making effective and lasting change for the poor. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
We pray that you will establish among the nations your rule of righteousness, come to your world as who rules in our hearts. We pray for Linda our Primate, Sandra our Bishop. Be with us as we work towards truth and reconciliation with Indigenous people. God of love:
Hear our prayer.
We pray that we may seek Christ in holy scriptures, know him in the breaking of the bread, recognize him in one another. Help us be aware of our prejudice and break into our lives with hope and peace, 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 in the shadow of death, and come to us as shepherd and guardian of our souls. We remember those who have died in your peace and whose faith is known to you alone, especially…
-
…that, with all the saints in light, we may shine forth as lights for the world, 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 104: Joy Shall Come
 
The Celebration of the Eucharist
The Prayer over the Gifts
Let us pray,
God of hope, renew in us the joy of your salvation and make us a living sacrifice to you, for the sake of Jesus Christ our 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 103: On Jordon’s Bank, the Baptist’s Cry
 
91: People Look East
 
116: “Your Kingdom Come”
 
100: Comfort, Comfort Ye My People
 
Prayer after Communion
Let us pray,
Merciful God, may this eucharist free us from our sins, fill us with unending joy, and prepare us for the birthday of our Saviour. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, who is Lord now and for ever. 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 425: Joyful, Joyful
 
The Scattering
Go forth into the world,
rejoicing in the Joy of God the Creator.
Thanks be to God.