WELCOME AND CONCERNS OF THE CONGREGATION

PRELUDE

LIGHTING THE ADVENT CANDLE

*HYMN 106 “Prepare the Way, O Zion”

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

O Lord, you have called us to prepare for your arrival. But we confess that we have been content with lesser things. Rather than preparing for hope, we have remained mired in our fear. Rather than preparing for joy, we have already crowded our lives with frantic schedules and discouraging expectations. Forgive us for living as if you will not come. Free us to receive your advent…

Silent Prayers of confession

WORDS OF ASSURANCE – from Romans 13: 11b,12,14a

Salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers: the night is far gone, the day is near. That day of salvation is experienced as we lay aside the works of darkness and put on the protection of the Light of the world - Jesus Christ - in whom and through whom we are forgiven.

Thanks be to God!

*GLORIA

PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION

SCRIPTURE LESSONS: Isaiah 11:1-10; Romans 15:1-13

SERMON “Hope for Joy and Peace” Rev. Barrett Ingram

Text: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

*HYMN 129 “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming”

*AFFIRMATION OF FAITH The Apostles’ Creed Page 35

PASTORAL PRAYER AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

OFFERTORY ANTHEM

RECEIVING OF GOD’S TITHES AND OFFERINGS

*DOXOLOGY

*PRAYER OF DEDICATION

*HYMN 87 “Comfort, Comfort Now My People”

*BENEDICTION

*POSTLUDE

*Those who are able are invited to stand.