Christmas Eve

As the season of Advent draws to a close we prepare to light the Christ Candle. During the four Sundays of Advent we have lit the four candle sitting in the Evergreen Wreath surrounding the tall white candle in the center. These outer candles, an additional one lit every week, represent our desires of the season. These candles are Hope, Love, Peace and Joy.

But tonight Advent ends, because tonight we celebrate the gift God gave to humanity over 2,000 years ago, when God came to dwell among His people. Jesus was born in a stable in Bethlehem, and God’s promises were fulfilled.

Because of Jesus’ sacrifice our sins are forgiven and we are able to receive God’s Grace, the gift of eternal life in the heaven God is creating for us.

Join us for Our Christmas Eve Service.

Photo: Nativity Birth of Jesus, Giotto, 1303-1305 Scrovegni Chapel Fresco, Padua, Italy

Handbell Prelude

Welcome / Call to Worship: Pastor Bob Ramos

Lighting the Christ The King Candle: Larry & Chris Murray

“The Candle of Love”

Christmas Carol: Congregation

“Joy to the World”

Prophecy of Jesus Birth in Bethlehem: Rod Thompson

Micah 5:2-5

Christmas Carol: Congregation

“O Little Town of Bethlehem”

Mary is Told She Would Bear the Son of God: Jeri Mead

Luke 1:26-28

Christmas Carol: Congregation

“O Holy Night”

Joseph Learns Mary Would Give Birth to Emmanuel: Mark Petiford

Matthew 1:18-25

Christmas Carol: Congregation

“Away in the Manger”

Our Savior is Born in Bethlehem: Cheryl Leatherman

Luke 2:1-7

Christmas Anthem: Recording by Bob Buchanan

“Sweet Little Jesus Boy”

Declaration of Christ’s Birth: Nancy Chancellor

Responsive Reading:

Christmas Carol: Congregation

“Angels We Have Heard on High”

Angel Choirs Announces Christ’s Birth: Lucinda Anderson

Luke 2:8-20

Meditation: Pastor Ron Urzua

“When God Became Human”

Candle Lighting Litany: Vickie Thompson

Sharing of the Light: Judi Blevins / Rich Brandon / Rod Thompson

Closing Hymn: Congregation

“Silent Night”

Christmas Benediction: Pastor Ron