As we move into the Christmas season, I’m continuing to follow the theme of God’s promise. Here is the opening prayer for worship during our Sundays of Christmas.
Background information: In an effort to be intentional about celebrating Advent and Christmas more fully, as outlined by Taylor Burton-Edwards, Director of Worship Resources, Discipleship Ministries (United Methodist Church), in the United Methodist Worship post Three Ways to Celebrate Advent and Christmas Season Fully updated for 2016-2017 , my congregation will begin to observe Advent Sunday, November 13, 2016. The “new” fourth Sunday of Advent will be December 4, 2016. We are following the lectionary for these Sundays, as they already exist. Using the Old Testament lessons, I am writing Advent Wreath Lighting Liturgies for our Advent observance. If you would like to use them in worship, please feel free; however, I do ask that you acknowledge me as the author of the material.
By your birth, Promised One,
you have renewed our hope
and reassured us of your constant care.
Prophets foretold it;
angels proclaimed it;
and humble arms received your salvation in the Babe of Bethlehem.
As we celebrate this season of Christmas,
may we, too, speak as prophets,
witness as angels, and welcome You like Mary and Joseph,
so that all people will know You keep your promises. Amen.
Amy Persons Parkes © 2016
An Everyday Mystic 