December 19 Worship Service Bulletin

First Presbyterian Church – St. Petersburg, Florida

Order of Worship - December 19, 2021 – 10 a.m.

4th Sunday of Advent

Rev. Ginny Ellis

Prelude: “Noël X” Louis Claude Daquin (1694–1772) - Performed by Jack Rain, organ

 Welcome and Announcements - Rev. Megan McMillan

Call to Worship - Megan McMillan

Jesus says: I am coming soon.

We know: Born and laid in a manger, Mary’s child.

But more: coming as Lord of all, even in this world of COVID and hunger and conflict.

We know that nothing can separate us from the love of God we find in you.

It is true; I come that you may have life and have it in abundance.

We eagerly await your coming again. Come, Lord Jesus.

Maranatha. Amen. Today we worship the present and coming Lord.

Processional Hymn #140: “Once in Royal David's City” IRBY

Advent Candle Lighting/Reading (Candle of Love) - Jim & Petra Garnett

This fourth week of Advent we light the last of the four candles: the Candle of Love. The now-glowing advent wreath is a sign for us that light shines in our darkness. Listen for the word of Love as we find it in Mary’s song: The Magnificat.

My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

God’s mercy is for those who fear our God, from generation to generation.

Prayer: God of grace, your eternal word became flesh among us when Mary placed her life at the service of your will and bore your child. Prepare our hearts for his coming again, and fill us with your love for the World. Amen.

Passing of the Peace

Response: Glory to God #583

Moment for All Ages - Megan McMillan

Special Music: “Angels We Have Heard on High” - Performed by Handbell Choir

Prayer for Illumination - Gretchen Letterman

First Scripture: Micah 5: 2-5a - Gretchen Letterman

Second Scripture: Luke 1: 26-38 - Gretchen Letterman

Praise Song: “O Holy Night” - FPC Praise Band

Sermon Scripture: Luke 1: 39-45 - Rev. Ginny Ellis

Sermon: “A Visit Between Mothers” - Rev. Ginny Ellis

Praise Song: “Joy To The World” - FPC Praise Band

Presentation of our Gifts – Invitation and Prayer - Gretchen Letterman

Offertory Anthem: “What Star is This?” David Ashley White - Performed by Chancel Choir

Doxology OLD HUNDREDTH

Prayers of the People - Rev. Ginny Ellis

Recessional Hymn # 121: “O Little Town of Bethlehem” ST. LOUIS

Charge & Benediction - Rev. Ginny Ellis

Postlude: “Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying” (Advent hymn 349), Paul Manz (1919–2009) - Performed by Jack Rain, organ