Christmas Eve
December 24, 2021
Theme: “Coming Home”

2 Preludes (A time of silent meditation.)
John Sheaffer, organ
“Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” by Roberta Rowland-Reybold

“The First Noel” by C. P. P. Burton
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/What Child is This” Tom Ajack, guitar
(A time of silent meditation.)

Opening Hymn “O Come, All Ye Faithful” UMH 234 (vv 1,3,6)
Red hymnal

Word of Welcome Rev. Susan Bresser

Lighting of the Christ Candle Rev. Greta Hietpas

Call to Worship (responsively)
On this holiest of nights,
we come, joining the shepherds who are stunned by wonder.
On this most silent night,
we come, our hopes and dreams joining those of Mary and Joseph.
On this night of carols and candlelight,
we come, our glad songs joining with the choirs of angels over us.

Hymn “Joy to the World” UMH 246 (vv 1,2,4)
arr. Handel, Mason, Ajack

A Christmas Prayer with the Lord’s Prayer Rev. Susan Bresser

Musical Response “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” arr. Keith Wilbank
Chancel Choir and Brass
Cynthia Eisenmann, Eric Eisenmann, Kelsey Shook, and Kent Shook

The Christmas Story The Birth Luke 2:1-7

Musical Response "Lo, How A Rose Ere Blooming/The Rose”
Chancel Choir, Kris Jacobsen, Alto.
Praetorius/Craig Hella Johnson/Amanda McBroom

The Announcement Luke 2:8-14

Hymn “Angels We Have Heard on High” UMH 238 (vv 1,2)

The Glory of the Lord Luke 2:15-20

Hymn “The First Noel” UMH 245 (vv 1,2)

Christmas Meditation Rev. Susan Bresser

Musical Response “Away in a Manger” Tom Ajack, guitar

Ministry Moment Rev. Greta Hietpas

Prayer of Dedication Rev. Greta Hietpas

The Light of Christ

The pastor will light a candle from the Christ Candle. As the individual candles are lighted, you
are cautioned not to tip a lighted candle. Hold burning candles upright. Tip only the candle which
is yet to receive the flame from the usher or your neighbor.

Hymn "Silent Night, Holy Night" UMH 239 (vv 1,2,3)

Blessing (responsively while candles remain lit)
Scripture says the glory of the Lord shone around them.
Each of us can reflect the light of Christ.
Go with light enough for every shadow and grief.
The peace of Christ is ours to share. Glory to God. Amen.

Postlude "O Come, All Ye Faithful" John Sheaffer, organ
(A time for reflection.) by Jason Payne

* * * * * *

If you are visiting this Christmas Eve service, we especially welcome you.
Your presence increases our joy.
If you are looking for a church home, we warmly invite you to worship with us
in person or online on Sundays at 9:30 am.

Find us at www.fumcwaukesha.org.
Download our app: Waukesha First United Methodist Church.
Search “Waukesha First United Methodist Church” on Youtube.