2013 christmas eve

Christmas Eve: The Nativity of Jesus

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UNITED CHURCH OF CHRISTCOLUMBUS, OHIO

He Qi © 2013 All Rights Reserved

Welcome to First ChurchGlory to God in the hiGhest! Christ is Born!

What child is this, who, laid to rest,On Mary’s lap is sleeping?

Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,While shepherds watch are keeping?

This, this is Christ the King,Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:

Haste, haste to bring Him laud,The Babe, the son of Mary.- William Chatterton Dix -

“What Child is This?” was written by 29 year-old English poet William Chatterton Dix during the lowest point of his life. He had been struck with a sudden near-fatal illness and confined to bed rest for several months, during which he went into a deep depression. Out of his near-death experience, in the depths of despair, Dix wrote a poem entitled, “The Manger Throne.” Set to the English tune Greensleeves, the world has been blessed by Dix’s lyrical vision of the newborn Christ since 1865. We never know the seeds of hope and faith which are being planted by God in us every single day. We never know how deeply God in Jesus Christ is touching us and reflecting Christ’s light in us, on us, and through us to others. We simply walk in faith, trusting God will reveal Godself to us one more time. Every Christmas the most beautiful sight to me in our glorious Cathedral of Grace is a broken down feed trough with hay sticking out. We place it in the center of the chancel right in front of the Communion Table. It reminds us how humble our roots are in the birth of “God with us.” We can relate to the broken down, simple wooden feed trough. I ask you, “Would we place your newborn child in such a manger?” Probably not. But, our God would do that for us! That is how low God bends to touch our hearts tonight and every single day. Make haste to welcome the newborn Christ, “…the Babe, the son of Mary.” The love of God and the love of First Church is yours tonight. We are glad that you are here. No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here. Let us “bring Him laud, the Babe, the son of Mary….”Our Christmas love and welcome extends to you and all your loved ones!

The Reverend Tim Ahrens, Senior Minister

If you are visiting today and looking for a church home, welcome! For 161 years our Covenant has been: We covenant with the Lord Jesus Christ and one another, and bind ourselves in the presence of God to live together in all God’s ways as revealed to us by the Holy Spirit and holy scripture. The church acknowledges that all members have the right of individual interpretation of the principles of the Christian faith and respects them in their honest convictions. In accordance with the teaching of our Lord, the church recognizes two sacraments: Baptism and Holy Communion.

Please turn off pagers and cell phones. Bookmarks welcoming children to worship are found in the pew racks. Hearing assistance devices are available at the sanctuary doors. Deacons wearing white carnations or ushers wearing blue carnations can assist you.

Cards requesting prayer are in the pew racks. (*) Indicates the congregation should stand as they are able.

taBle of Contents3:00 p.m. Family Service.........................................................................................Page 37:30 p.m. Drama of the Nativity Service.................................................................Page 710:30 p.m. Nativity Concert...................................................................................Page 1011:00 p.m. Candlelight Service...............................................................................Page 12Christmas Dedications............................................................................................Page 21

Worship at 3 p.m.Prelude A Christmas Triptych John Ferguson Partita on “Lo, How a Rose” Max Drischner

Welcome The Rev. Dr. Janine Wilson

* Call to Worship Rev. WilsonLeader: Give thanks for the Lord is good. People: God’s love endures forever. * All standLeader: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.People: Those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shined.Leader: To us a child is born. To us a son is given.People: And his name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting God, Prince of Peace.

* Opening Carol 31 “Hark! the herald angels sing” Mendelssohn Hark! The herald angels sing glory to the newborn King.Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!Joyful, all ye nations, rise, join the triumph of the skies;With angelic host proclaim Christ is born in Bethlehem!Hark! The herald angels sing glory to the newborn King!

Christ, by highest heav’n adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord;late in time behold him come, off-spring of the virgin’s womb.Veiled in flesh the God-head see; hail the incarnate Deity.Pleased in flesh with us to dwell; Jesus, our Emmanuel.Hark! The herald angels sing glory to the newborn King!

* Invocation Mark S. WilliamsLeader: Let us pray.All: O God, you make us glad by the yearly festival of the birth of your only Son Jesus Christ: Grant that we,who have been born again and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the same Spirit be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

* Carol 38 “It came upon the midnight clear” Carol It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,from angels bending near the earth, to touch their harps of gold:“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heaven’s all-gracious King.”The world in solemn stillness lay, to hear the angels sing.

Still through the cloven skies they come, with peaceful wings unfurled,And still their heavenly music floats o’er all the weary world:Above its sad and lowly plains they end on hovering wing,And ever o’er its Babel sounds the blessed angels sing.

* Passing the Christmas Peace Rev. WilsonLeader: The Peace of Christ be with you all.People: And also with you.Leader: Let us greet one another with the sign of Christ’s peace.

* Carol 29 “Go, tell it on the mountain” Go, tell it on the mountain

Go, tell it on the mountain over the hills and everywhere;Go, tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born.

While shepherds kept their watching o’er silent flocks by night,behold throughout the heavens there shone a holy light.Go, tell it on the mountain over the hills and everywhere;Go, tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born. The shepherds feared and trembled when lo! above the earth,rang out the angel chorus that hailed our Savior’s birth.Go, tell it on the mountain over the hills and everywhere;Go, tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born.

The Congregation may be seated.

Lighting the Christmas Candle Jason Holton, Christen CoyleAudrey, William and Jacob Holton

Carol 25 “Away in a manger” Mueller

Away in a manger, no crib for his bed, the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay,the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,but little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.I love thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky,and stay by my side until morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stayclose by me forever, and love me I pray.Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,and fit us for heaven to live with thee there.

Children’s Time Mark S. Williams

The Christmas Story

The First Reading: Luke 2:1-7 Todd Cunningham

Carol 44 “O little town of Bethlehem” St. Louis

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light;the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary; and gathered all above,while mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wondering love.O morning stars together proclaim the holy birth!And praises sing to God the King, and peace to all on earth.

The Second Reading: Luke 2:8-14 Melissa Kulwicki

Carol 23 “Angels we have heard on high” Gloria

Angels we have heard on high, sweetly singing o’er the plains,and the mountains in reply echoing their joyous strains.Gloria in excelsis Deo; Gloria in excelsis Deo.

Shepherds, why this jubilee? Why these songs of happy cheer?What great brightness did you see? What glad tidings did you hear?Gloria in excelsis Deo; Gloria in excelsis Deo.

Come to Bethlehem and see him whose birth the angels sing;come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King.Gloria in excelsis Deo; Gloria in excelsis Deo.

The Third Reading: Luke 2:15-20 Kevin Jones

Carol 41 “O come, all ye faithful” Adeste fideles

O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, Ocome ye, O come ye to Bethlehem?Come, and behold him, born the King of angels;O come, let us adore him, O come, let us adore him,O come, let us adore him, Christ, the Lord. Sing choirs of angels, sing in exultation!Sing all ye citizens of heav’n above!Glory to God, glory in the highest!O come, let us adore him, O come, let us adore him,O come, let us adore him, Christ, the Lord.

A Christmas Poem Mark S. Williams

A Christmas Prayer Rev. Wilson

The Lord’s PrayerOur Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.

Offertory Invitation Mr. WilliamsCash and designated checks go to the United Church of Christ Christmas Fund. Gifts to the fund help provide pension and health premium supplementation to low-income retired clergy and emergency assistance to the families of clergy and lay employees. A $30,000 challenge grant from anonymous donors will match dollar for dollar any gift you give this year.

Instrumental Noël sur les flutes Louis Claude Daquin

* Presentation Hymn 53 “What child is this” Greensleeves

What child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping?Whom angels greet with anthems sweet while shepherds watch are keeping?This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing;haste, haste to bring Him laud, the Babe, the son of Mary.

Why lies he in such mean estate where ox and ass are feeding?Good Christians, fear: for sinners here the silent Word is pleading.This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing;haste, haste to bring Him laud, the Babe, the son of Mary.

* Benediction Rev. Wilson Leader: Holy God, you came to earth to show us how to live. Bless us in this holy season and brighten our hearts with the light of Christ.People: Glory to God in the highest!Leader: Holy God, you sent your angels to proclaim your birth, fill us with joy and make us heralds of the Gospel.People: Glory to God in the highest!Leader: Holy God, in the Word made flesh you joined heaven to earthand earth to heaven, grant us your peace.People: Glory to God in the highest!Leader: Jesus is born! God is with us! Let us go forth rejoicing in the love of God and the peace of Christ.People: Glory to God in the highest!

* Closing Carol 40 “Joy to the world!” Antioch

Joy to the world! the Lord is come: let earth receive her King:let every heart prepare him room, and heav’n and nature sing,and heav’n and nature sing, and heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing.

Joy to the world! the Savior reigns: let us our songs employ;while fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains repeat the sounding joy,repeat the sounding joy, repeat, repeat the sounding joy. He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations provethe glories of his righteousness, and wonders of his love,and wonders of his love, and wonders, wonders of his love.

Postlude Noël Suisse Louis Claude Daquin It is our custom to be seated for the postlude.

PartiCiPants in the serviCe

The Reverend Dr. Janine WilsonMr. Mark S. Williams

Todd Cunningham, First ReaderMelissa Kulwicki, Second Reader

Kevin Jones, Third Reader & Organist

Worship at 7:30 p.m.The Drama of the Nativity

Prelude Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabella arr. Keith Chapman Chorale Prelude on “Silent Night” Samuel Barber

James E. Bobb, organist “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” arr. Gerald Near

The Teen Choir

Welcome The Rev. Timothy C. Ahrens * Call to Worship The Rev. Dr. Janine Wilson

Leader: Give thanks for the Lord is good. People: God’s love endures forever. * All standL: The Light shines in the darkness,P: and the darkness has not overcome it.L: The Word became flesh and lived among usP: and we have beheld Christ’s glory.L: To us a child is born. To us a Son is given. All: In the Word is life, and the life is the light of all people.

* Processional Carol 41 “O come, all ye faithful” Adeste Fideles

* Invocation Rev. AhrensL: Let us pray.P: O God, you have made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true light of your incarnate Word. Grant that this light, enkindled in our hearts, may shine forth in our lives now and forever. Amen.

* Song of Praise 23 “Angels we have heard on high” Gloria

* Passing the Peace of the Newborn Christ Rev. WilsonLeader: The Peace of Christ be with you all.People: And also with you.Leader: Let us greet one another with the sign of Christ’s peace.

Lighting the Christ Candle Carol 22 “Angels from the realms of glory” (verse 1) Regent Square The Lighting Todd, Mary Anne and Ian Jacobson Carol 22 “Angels from the realms of glory” (verse 4)

The Christmas Story

The First Reading: Luke 2:1-7 Mark S. Williams

Anthem “Lullaby” John Ness BeckThe Teen Choir

A child, a holy child, fast asleep beneath a winter sky is warm at rest at his mother’s breast as she sings her lullaby.The lambs, the cattle too are sleeping in a bed of hay, and all around there’s no other sound than lullaby, lullay.Sleep, lullaby, sleep well, lullaby, my precious one; lullay, my love, my only son; New life has now begun. So the story goes: once upon a winter morn a tiny boy bringing love and joy, the Prince of Peace was born.—John Ness Beck

The Second Reading: Luke 2:8-20 Rev. Wilson

Christmas Meditation “The Salvation of the Lord” Rev. Ahrens

* Meditation Carol 44 “O little town of Bethlehem” St. Louis

A Christmas Prayer Rev. Wilson The Lord’s Prayer (debts, debtors)

Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Offertory Invitation Rev. AhrensCash and designated checks go to the United Church of Christ Christmas Fund. Gifts to the fund help provide pension and health premium supplementation to low-income retired clergy and emergency assistance to the families of clergy and lay employees. A $30,000 challenge grant from anonymous donors will match dollar for dollar any gift you give this year.

Anthem “On Christmas Night” Robert J. PowellThe Treble Choir, Pam Welsh-Huggins, director

On Christmas night all Christians sing To hear the news the angels bring. News of great joy, news of great mirth. News of our merciful King’s birth.

Then why should we on earth be so sad, Since our Redeemer made us glad?When from our sing He set us free,All for to gain our liberty?

All out of darkness we have light, Which made the angels sing this night. “Glory to God and peace to allNow and forevermore. Amen.”

* Presentation Carol 53 “What child is this” (stanzas 1 & 3) Greensleeves

The Drama of the NativityOn this Holy Eve, the Angels appear bearing lighted tapers. By the Angels’ light come the Shepherds, who gather around the Holy Family. Wise Men, eastern Magi, also come to honor the newborn One. All kneel in adoration of the One before whom “every knee in heaven and on earth and below the earth shall bend, and before whom every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” —Philippians 2:10-11

* Carol 60 “Silent night, holy night” Stille Nacht

* Benediction Rev. AhrensLeader: Jesus is born! God is with us! Let us go forth rejoicing in the love of God and the peace of Christ.People: Glory to God in the highest!

* Closing Carol 31 “Hark! The herald angels sing” Mendelssohn

Postlude Toccata-Gigue on “The Sussex Carol” George Baker It is our custom to be seated for the postlude.


The Reverend Timothy C. AhrensThe Reverend Dr. Janine Wilson

Mr. Mark S. Williams

The Cast of the Drama of the Nativity

The Treble ChoirPam Welsh-Huggins, Director

The Teen ChoirKevin Jones, Minister of Music

James E. Bobb, Assisting Organist

Mary – Emma GonzalesJoseph – Joe Spofforth AngelsCarly KutschbachBetsy TraceJulie TraceKatie TraceAnna RhoadsMeg Rhoads

ArchangelsSarah AhrensAllison Lange

ShepherdsAlfred FieldsAdam WadeDylan HopcraftNina ZimmermanErin MurrayThomas TraceLuke ZimmermanWill Zimmerman

MagiSteven Deliman Cameron WadeCarl Jacobson

Technical CrewPeter Murray, leadJoseph Bellissimo Bill RhoadsSam SpofforthDrew WadeMissy Zimmerman

Costumes/Make-upPam Welsh-HugginsThomas Welsh-HugginsEmma Welsh-Huggins

10:30 p.m. - A Concert in Honor of the NativityChristmas Music for Choir, Oboe and Harp

Music of Stephen Paulus (b. 1949)Three Nativity Carols The Holly and the Ivy (Traditional)

This Endris Night (15th Century)

Wonder Tidings (15th Century)

The holly and the ivy,When they are both full grownOf all the trees that are in the woodThe holly bears the crownThe rising of the sunAnd the running of the deerThe playing of the merry organSweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a blossomAs white as the lily flowerAnd Mary bore sweet Jesus ChristTo be our sweet Saviour.The rising of the sun…

The holly bears a berryAs red as any bloodAnd Mary bore sweet Jesus ChristTo do poor sinners good.The rising of the sun…

The holly bears a prickleAs sharp as any thorn;And Mary bore sweet Jesus ChristOn Christmas Day in the morn.

The holly bears a barkAs bitter as any gall;And Mary bore sweet Jesus ChristFor to redeem us all.The rising of the sun…

This endris night1 I saw a sightA star as bright as day;And ever among a maiden sung,“Lullay, by by, lullay.”

This lovely lady sat and sung,And to her Child did say:“My Son, my Brother, Father, dear,Why liest Thou thus in hay?”

The Child then spake in His talking,And to his mother said:“Yea, I am known as Heaven-King,In crib though I be laid.

“Now, sweet Son, since Thou art a king,Why art Thou laid in stall?Then why dost not order thy beddingIn some great kingès hall?

“Mary mother, I am thy Child,Though I be laid in stall;For lords and dukes shall worship Me,And so shall kingès all.

“And in thy arm thou hold Me warm,And keep Me night and day,And if I weep, and may not sleep,Thou sing, By by, lullay.”

What tidings bringest thou, messenger,Of Christes birth this jolly day?A babe is born of high nature.The Prince of peace that ever shall be;Of heav’n and earth he hath the cure:His lordship is eternity:Such wonder tidings ye may hear,That man is made now Goddes peer,Whom sin had made but fiendes prey.

What tidings bringest thou, messenger,Of Christes birth this jolly day?A wonder thing is now befall;That King that formed star and sun,Heaven and earth and angels all,

Now in mankind is new begun: Such wonder tidings ye may hear,An infant now of but one year,That hath been ever and shall be ay.

What tidings bringest thou, messenger,Of Christes birth this jolly day?That lovliest gan greet her child,“Hail, son! Hail, brother! Hail, father dear!Hail daughter! Hail, sister! Hail, mother mild!”This hailing was of quaint mannere:Such wonder tidings ye may hear,That hailing was of such good cheer.That mannes pain is turned to play.A babe is born. Alleluia!

Remaining seated, please join in singing theCongregational Carol 57 “The snow lay on the ground” Venite adoremus

Anthem “A Savior from on High” Stephen PaulusLissa Wade, soloist

O sweet was the song the Virgin sang When she to Bethl’em Judah came,

And was delivered of a son, And Jesus was his name.

Lullee, lully, lullo, lullaby.

“O sweet babe,” sang she, “my son.” And so a Savior is born,

Who was given from on high

To visit us that were forlorn. Lullee, lully, lullo, lullaby.

—William Ballet, 17th century

Remaining seated, please join in singing theCongregational Carol 61 “‘Twas in the moon of wintertime” Une Jeune Pucelle

Anthem “How Far is it to Bethlehem?” Stephen PaulusJanet Axt & Leo Welsh, soloists

The First Church ChoirStephen Secan, oboe

Jane Zopff, harpKevin Jones, conductor

How far is it to Bethlehem? Not very far.Shall we find the stable room Lit by a star?

Can we see the little child, Is he within?If we lift the wooden latch May we go in?

May we stroke the creatures there, Ox, ass, or sheep?May we peep like them and see Jesus asleep?

If we touch his tiny hand Will he awake?Will he know we’ve come so far Just for his sake?

Great kings have precious gifts, And we have naught,Little smiles and little tears Are all we have brought.

For all weary children Mary must weep.Here, on his bed of straw Sleep, children, sleep.

God in his mother’s arms, Babes in the byre,Sleep, as they sleep who find Their heart’s desire.

—Frances Chesterton (1875-1938)

Worship at 11 p.m.Candlelight Communion

Welcome The Rev. Timothy C. Ahrens * Call to Worship The Rev. Dr. Janine Wilson

Leader: Give thanks for the Lord is good. People: God’s love endures forever. * All standL: The Light shines in the darkness,P: and the darkness has not overcome it.L: The Word became flesh and lived among usP: and we have beheld Christ’s glory.L: To us a child is born. To us a Son is given. All: In the Word is life, and the life is the light of all people.

* Processional Carol “O come, all ye faithful” Adeste Fideles, descant David Willcocks

* Invocation The Rev. Sarah ReedL: Let us pray.P: O God, you have made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true light of your incarnate Word. Grant that this light, enkindled in our hearts, may shine forth in our lives now and forever. Amen.

* Song of Praise 23 “Angels we have heard on high” Gloria

* Passing the Peace of the Newborn Christ Mark S. WilliamsLeader: The Peace of Christ be with you all.People: And also with you.Leader: Let us greet one another with the sign of Christ’s peace.

Lighting the Christ Candle Carol 40 “Joy to the world” (verse 1) Antioch The Lighting Joseph Bellissimo and Kevin Jones Carol 40 “Joy to the world” (verses 2 and 3)

The Hebrew Scripture: Isaiah 9: 2-7 Rev. Ahrens

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

L: The Word of God for the people of God. P: Thanks be to God.

Anthem “Sing lullaby” Herbert Howells

Sing lullaby, while snow doth gently fall,Sing lullaby to Jesus born in an oxen-stall.

Sing lullaby to Jesus born now in Bethlehem, The naked blackthorn’s growing to weave his diadem.

Sing lullaby, while thickly snow doth fall,Sing lullaby to Jesus the Saviour of all.– Frederick William Harvey

The Epistle: Titus 2:11-14 Rev. Reed

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds.


Gospel Anthem Lux aurumque Eric Whitacre (Light and Gold)

— Edward Esch, tr. to Latin by Charles Anthony Silvestri

The Gospel: Luke 2:1-20 Rev. Wilson

In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.


Christmas Meditation “On Us Has Light Shined” Rev. AhrensA time of reflection follows.

Lux,Calida gravisque pura velut aurumEt canunt angeli mollitermodo natum.

Light,warm and heavy as pure goldand angels sing softlyto the new-born babe.

* Meditation Carol 43 “O little town of Bethlehem” Forest Green

A Christmas Prayer Rev. Wilson

The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Offertory Invitation Rev. AhrensCash and designated checks go to the United Church of Christ Christmas Fund. Gifts to the fund help provide pension and health premium supplementation to low-income retired clergy and emergency assistance to the families of clergy and lay employees. A $30,000 challenge grant from anonymous donors will match dollar for dollar any gift you give this year.

Anthem “Heir of the Highest Heaven” Peter Niedmann Commissioned by the Barnard Music Fund and the Anthem Commission Fund for the 2013 Festival of Lessons and Carols

* Presentation Carol 53 “What child is this” (verses 1 & 3) Greensleeves

The Sacrament of Holy CommunionWe practice open communion: Wherever you are on your faith journey, you are welcome at the Lord’s table. Please come

forward down the center aisle and return to your seat by the side aisle. Wheat-free rice flour bread is available on the trays, cut into circles.

Invitation

Here, O prophet, is life and light!Here is the message sure!Beams from this face the glory brightOf the kingdom of the pure.

To us, o mortals, a Child is born!To us a Son is given,Light of light, and star of the morn,Heir of the highest heaven!

Heaven no longer is strange and far,Heaven to the earth draws near;Dawns on the world that morning starOur desolate hearts to cheer.

God is no longer a vision dim,For we have learned his name—Our Father; and we draw nigh to HimFrom whom Immanuel came;

Nay, in Immanuel’s smile we see The brightness of His face,With sweet compassion and mercy freeAnd gentleness and grace.

Thus to the world that travailed longUnder its sorrow and pain,There is chanted the happy Christmas song,Again and ever again;

Swifter than morning ray e’er ranLet the new glad tidings runThat the Son of God is the Son of man,And heaven and earth are one.

Text: Washington Gladden (1836-1918)Music: Peter Niedmann (1960-)

*Sursum Corda Plainsong

*Communion Prayer

Rev. Ahrens: We give you thanks, God of majesty and mercy, for calling forth the creation and raising us from dust by the breath of your being. We bless you for the beauty and bounty of the earth and for the vision of the day when sharing by all will mean scarcity for none. We remember the covenant you made with your people Israel, and we give you thanks for all our ancestors in faith. Rev. Reed: We rejoice that you call us to reconciliation with you and all people everywhere and that you remain faithful to your covenant even when we are faithless. We rejoice that you call the entire human family to this table of sacrifice and victory. Rev. Wilson: We come in remembrance and celebration of the gift of Jesus Christ, whom you sent, in the fullness of time, to be the good news. Born of Mary, our sister in faith, Christ lived among us to reveal the mystery of your Word, to suffer and die on the cross for us, to be raised from death on the third day, and then to live in glory. We rejoice in the good news of the birth of Jesus; with the angels, the shepherds, and the faithful of every nation, we glorify your holy name.

*Sanctus from Deutsche Messe, Franz Schubert

The Congregation may be seated.

Blessing the Elements

Rev. Ahrens: We remember that on the night of betrayal and desertion, and on the eve of death, Jesus gathered the disciples for the feast of Passover. Rev. Wilson: Jesus took bread, and after giving thanks to you, broke it, and gave it to the disciples, saying: “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” Rev. Reed: In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying: “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

Leaders: Therefore we proclaim the mystery of our faith.

All: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

Rev. Reed: Eternal God, we unite in this covenant of faith, recalling Christ’s suffering and death, rejoicing in Christ’s resurrection, and awaiting Christ’s return in victory. Rev. Wilson: We spread your table with these gifts of the earth and of our labor. We present to you our very lives, committed to your service in behalf of all people. Rev. Ahrens: We ask you to send your Holy Spirit on this bread and wine, on our gifts, and on us. Strengthen your universal church that it may be the champion of peace and justice in all the world. Restore the earth with your grace that is able to make all things new.

All: Be present with us as we share this meal, and throughout all our lives, that we may know you as the Holy One, who with Christ and the Holy Spirit, lives for ever. Amen.

* Prayer of Thanksgiving Mr. WilliamsL: Let us pray.All: Great and gracious God, we thank you that, in this holy meal, the true Light has come to dwell in us. As we return into the world you love, may we take to all people the good news of Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Isaiah ‘twas foretold it, The Rose I have in mind. With Mary we behold it, The Virgin Mother kind. To show God’s love aright,She bore to men a Savior,When half-spent was the night.

Breaking Bread and Pouring WineThe bread is broken and the wine is poured as visible and audible reminders of the sacrificial self giving of Jesus Christ. These actions call to mind the cost as well as the joy of Christian discipleship.

Rev. Ahrens: The bread which we break is the communion of the body of Christ. The cup of blessing which we bless is the communion of the blood of Christ.

Call to the Supper

The gifts of God for the people of God. Come, for all things are ready.

Music During Communion

Anthem “Prepare a Place” John GilbertPrepare a place for Love to dwell; No need for lavish inn or hall; the rudest space, the smallest cell can cradle Love so very well.Prepare a way for peace to grow beyond the limits of our fear. Define the path for all to know that Peace was promised long ago.Prepare a song for Life to raise, when born anew in human heart; Above the surge and swell and craze when Life is lived in languid days.Prepare a feast for Christ to share; A loaf and cup to feed the poor; to lift the masses from despair; each broken spirit to repair.Prepare a time for all to see the timeless Wonder born as Truth; A time to risk, a time to be; to ponder God’s humanity.—John Gilbert, Advent 1979

Anthem “Lo! How a rose e’er blooming” Hugo Distler

Lo! How a Rose e’er blooming From tender stem hath sprung, Of Jesse’s lineage coming, As men of old have sung. It came a Flow’ret bright Amid the cold of winter, When half-spent was the night.

Carol 25 “Away in a manger” Mueller

This Flow’r whose fragrance tenderWith sweetness fills the airDispels with glorious splendorThe darkness ev’rywhere.True man, yet very God!From sin and death He saves usAnd lightens ev’ry load.

* Lighting the CandlesWe celebrate the birth of Jesus and the Light that brought the people of God out of darkness. Turn towards the center aisle

to face the Christ candle. Please tip your unlit candle into the nearest flame.

* Carol 60 “Silent night, holy night” Stille Nacht After the Choir sings the first verse in the original German, please join in singing the remaining verses in English.

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht!Alles schläft, einsam wachtNur das traute, hochheilige Paar.Holder Knabe im lockigen Haar,Schlaf ’ in himmlischer Ruh’,Schlaf ’ in himmlischer Ruh’.

Silent night, holy night! All is calm, all is bright, Round yon virgin mother and child! Holy Infant, so tender and mild, Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace.

* Christmas Benediction Rev. AhrensLeader: Jesus is born! God is with us! Let us go forth rejoicing in the love of God and the peace of Christ.People: Glory to God in the highest!

* Closing Carol “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” Mendelssohn, descant Paul Halley

Silent night, holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight, Glories stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing: “Alleluia; Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born.”

Silent night, holy night!Son of God, love’s pure light Radiant beams from Thy holy face, With the dawn of redeeming grace,Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

As the Postlude begins, please extinguish your candle. It is our custom to remain seated for the postlude.

Postlude Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her, BWV 738 Johann Sebastian Bach(From Heaven Above to Earth I Come)

Please place the extinguished candle in the designated box as you leave worship.

The Congregation, Council and Staffwish you a Merry Christmas!


The Reverend Timothy C. AhrensThe Reverend Dr. Janine Wilson

The Reverend Sarah ReedMr. Mark S. Williams

Steven Deliman, CruciferAdam Wade and Cameron Wade, Acolytes

The First Church Choir

Kevin Jones, Minister of Music/OrganistJames E. Bobb, Assisting Organist

The list is headed by the names and dates of those ministers who served this church with distinction and devotion. William H. Marble 1852-1856 Washington Gladden 1882-1918 John M. Steele 1856-1857 Carl S. Patton 1911-1917 Henry B. Elliott 1858-1860 Irving Maurer 1918-1924 Edward P. Goodwin 1860-1867 McIlyar H. Lichliter 1924-1942 George W. Phillips 1868-1871 Boynton Merrill 1943-1959 Robert G. Hutchins 1872-1882 Chalmers Coe 1960-1983

To the glory of God andIn memory of and celebration of our parents Herman & Lorene Ahrens, Robert F. Sitler & Ruth L. Ann Sitler; In celebration of our children Luke & Kirsten, Daniel, Sarah & Thalia by Rev. Tim Ahrens & Susan SitlerIn memory of parents Herbert & Carolyn Livingston by Gretchen AtkinsonIn memory of George W. & Merriam Frances Barnard and Jean Byerly by G. Dene BarnardIn celebration of my church family by Sandy BennettIn celebration of Ed & Marilyn Koetz by Kris Brant & Debbi KellyIn memory of my parents Maxine & Bill Gilson by Nancy BravermanIn memory of Lee Burba by Nancy BurbaIn celebration of music by Nicola & Kemper CampbellIn celebration of Bill & Gail Johannes by Barb ClaphamIn celebration of Quinten & Kinsey Burns by Bert & Bev CookIn memory of parents and brother by Ned CullomIn memory of Ruth, Leslie & Jim Wesner and Tom Danneberger by the Danneberger familyIn memory of my mother Arlene Martha Huerster Ellenberger by Allison L. EllenbergerIn memory of beloved family & friends by Chris & Tom FarquharIn memory of parents Austin & Opal Garrison by Melva FisherIn memory of Herbert & Ruth Gale and Robert & Helen Knapp by Erick GaleIn celebration of music ministry; in memory of parents by Carol & Jim GallagherIn memory of Victoria Guadalupe Salazar & Bea by Sandra GeronimoIn celebration of family & friends; in memory of loved ones by Sarah & Wally GiffenIn memory of beloved mother Erma Thurston & beloved father Orville Gray by Gary & Dale Ann GrayIn memory of Marian Guynn; in celebration of the season by Harry GuynnIn memory of Ruth Warman, Carl & Ruth Henderson and William Everett by Mike, Gayle, Emma & Rachel HendersonIn memory of Ardis Edmondson Holt by David, Lauren, Brian and Christina HoltIn memory of Ardis Postle, Amy Allen, Carmen Williams, parents Howard & Irene Hoskinson by Cheryl HoskinsonIn celebration of the HJudson family by Anne & Gerry HudsonIn memory of Frieda & Dana Stewart, Fred Stewart and Richard & Sandra Eidson by Ann HuntIn celebration of Frank & Carol Hussey by their children & grandchildrenIn memory of Dr. & Mrs. Max Tyler and Dr. & Mrs. William M. Johannes by Bill & Gail JohannesIn memory of Barbara & Leo Jones; in celebration of the birth of Gray Elliot Jones by Kevin Jones & Joseph BellissimoIn celebration of the gifts of friends, family and the First Church community; in memory of Alun Jones & Garth Peterson by Scott A. Jones & Tom W. RegouskiIn memory of David Knox by Barbara KnoxIn memory of Martin & Carolyn Shimp by the Koscher familyIn memory of William Kutschbach Sr, Suzanne H. Kutschbach, Janice Kutschbach; in celebration of our children & grandchildren by Bob & Diana KutschbachIn memory of Dorothy Cromartie by Carly KutschbachIn memory of Bob & Shirley Lange; in celebration of music at First Church by Bill & Sarah LangeIn memory of Edwin & Ruth Busey, Paul & Elsie Leidheiser, and in celebration of children & grandchildren by Paul & Melody LeidheiserIn celebration of music by Nancy LivingstonIn memory of Nervida Maynell & Ruth Maynell by Laurie MaynellIn clelbration of parents Eda & Peter Mikolaj by Heather MikolajIn memory of Kay & Tom Carter and Leora & Elmer Monahan by Bob Monahan & Jane CarterIn memory of Jane Morris by Lisa MorrisIn memory of my mother Elizabeth Stone by Pat PattersonIn memory of Ardis & David Postle by the Postle FamilyIn memory of Ken Beitzel & Jeanne McKinney by Jenny, Joe, Mia and Matty Provenzano

The Christmas Dedications

In honor of loved ones by Arlene ReynoldsIn celebration of the music ministry at First Church by Bill & Susan RhoadsIn memory of loved ones; in celebration of Ellie Walker by Sue & Ken SalakIn memory of Pat Navin, Trudy Navin & Mary Schultz by Hugh Schultz & Dana NavinIn memory of Patricia & James Smith and Arthur Curren by the Smith/Curren familyIn memory of Hugh & Douglas Stephens by Gleva StephensIn memory of our parents, the Rev. Arwood Sterrett and Louis & Nancy Sargent; in celebration of Barbara Cornell Sterrett by Karen & Steve SterrettIn memory of Edward & Betty Ryan and Charles & Julia Wagner by Bill, Amy, Katie and Chase WagnerIn celebration of Mary Jo, Shirley, Annie & Pasha by Lynn WallichIn memory of loved ones by Larry & Sharon WalquistIn memory of Barbara W. Heer, J. Ralston Werum, Arthur Lynn and Barbara Heer Reed by Jane WerumIn memory of Randy Yontz & Dorinda White by Keith White & Debbie YontzWith thanksgiving for Helen Edmonstone; with joy for John Morris by the Matthew Wilson familyIn memory of loves ones by Mark S. Williams and Tim CarseyIn memory of Katherine & Charles Woodard and Florence & Harold Brooks by Jim & Carol WoodardIn memory of Glenn & Ernestine Worley by Tom Worley & Nancy LoyIn memory of loved ones by Gerry and Marty WorthIn memory of John Zahn & Christopher Toukan by John & Betsy ZahnIn memory of parents, James & Mary Jane Roberts by Missy & Doug Zimmerman

Join us for the Entire Season of Christmas

Sunday, December 29 - The First Sunday after Christmas Day9 a.m. - Worship

11 a.m. - A Community Festival of Lessons and Carols

Sunday, January 5 - The Second Sunday after Christmas Day9 & 11 a.m. Worship

About First Congregational Church

Welcome to First Congregational Church. As you can see and hear from the soaring Gothic Revival architecture, the stained glass windows, and the sound of music in this space, beauty is truly a multi-media encounter here.

Sunday Worship Services are held at 9:00 a.m. (informal Communion service, Parish Hall) and 11:00 a.m. (traditional, Sanctuary). Following in the tradition of Washington Gladden, minister of this church from 1882 to 1914, First Congregational Church welcomes all people and extends its mission and witness into the community.

As a congregation of the United Church of Christ, we believe that God is Still Speaking in the world today. Our church has a distinctive voice as a people of welcome, justice and passion for the Gospel, shaped in expressions and traditions of the historic church.

This Building was designed by renowned New York architect John Russell Pope, dedicated in 1931 and renovated in 1997. The Brussells Tapestries were woven in 1575 in Belgium, embodying the artistic ideals of the Renaissance. Part of a larger series, they depict events in the life of Abraham.

About the Stained Glass Windows: Five studios have placed their work in our church. Above the Chancel, the Jeffrey window depicts Christ’s earthly life and ministry, and the east Chancel window honors Mary, the Mother of Jesus. The Friendship window (east transept) represents Christ and Saint John, while the Gladden window (west transept) honors the social justice conscience of Washington Gladden. High above the nave, the eight clerestory windows depict the story of Creation, and the Fall of Adam and Eve. Below, windows in the side aisles illustrate parables of Jesus from the Gospels. The rose window behind the Beckerath organ case portrays Christian cardinal virtues. The Barnard Window in the east Narthex, which celebrates music, was inspired by Bach’s Fantasia and Fugue in G minor and honors G. Dene Barnard, who served First Church as Organist Choirmaster for 30 years. The Chancel cross is red enameled copper on rosewood.

Thank you!

FIRST CHURCH CHOIRSoprano: Marti Baumer, Brianna Burkett, Margaret Cipriani, Candace Cummings, Sharon Ferguson, Sarah Garbe,

Allison Lange, Nancy Loy, Susan Pusecker, Lissa Wade, Sharon Walquist, Shannon Washington,Mary Weaver, Pam Welsh-Huggins, Lexi White

Alto: Janet Axt, Cari Brackett, Cindy Deliman, Allison Ellenberger, Marcia Essig, Dale Ann Gray, Kim Garrison-Hopcraft, Cheryl Hoskinson, Mary Anne Jacobson,

Cathy Redenbarger, Jan Wade, Sharon Walquist, Marty WorthTenor: James E. Bobb, Neal Brower, Bill Catus, Kevin Cubick, John Deliman, Jim Griffin, Greg Halbe,

Bill Johannes, Bill Lange, Mike McCullough, Pavan Peter, Rick SayreBass: Joseph Bellissimo, Jonathan Bethke, Sean Bragg, Carl Gelfius,

Keith Gochnour, Scott Jones, Andrew MacGregor, Wayne Redenbarger, David Stang, Tom Stewart, Rick Welch, Leo Welsh, Ben Wiant, Bill Wirsching II

FIRST CHURCH RINGERSDan Albrecht, Janet Axt, G. Dene Barnard, Cindy Deliman, John Deliman, Carl Gelfius, Mary Anne Jacobson,

Kevin Jones, Jean Lebold, Josh Lebold, Nancy Livingston, Nancy Loy, Mary Weaver

TEEN CHOIRSarah Ahrens, Steven Deliman, Alfred Fields, Katie Gies, Dylan Hopcraft, Joseph Spofforth, Adam Wade,

Cameron Wade, Victoria Washington

TREBLE CHOIRPamela Welsh-Huggins, director

Hector Gonzalez, Maddie Helmer, Cassidy Hopcraft, Mae Hubbard, Erin Murray, Ethan Murray, Miriam Myers, Samantha Myers, Sophia Polo, Mia Provenzano,

Matty Provenzano, AnnaSofia Grace Severson, Peter Spofforth

We apologize if anyone has inadvertently been omitted from these lists.

The cover art is “The Nativity” by He-Qi and is used by license.All other artwork used throughout this bulletin is by Steven Erspamer, and is used with permission.

All music reproduced within this program is used with permission by arrangement with OneLicense.net #A-700311. All rights reserved.

With thanks to all the hundreds of people who serve in our community of faith - volunteers, deacons, council, crucifers and acolytes, greeters,

ushers, and so many others. Thank you.

First Church is a faith community: • Called together by God, the Creator and Sustainer of life, to worship, pray and serve;• Led by Jesus Christ, our Teacher and Savior, to learn the faith and welcome all God’s children;• Empowered by the Holy Spirit to witness to God’s love and justice between ourselves, and throughout the world.

Our Open and Affirming StatementWe, the members of First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Columbus, Ohio, believe the following represents our commitment and desire to reach out and welcome all those in need of and searching for God’s love: We believe that we are all created in God’s image, female and male, and we are called to love our neighbors as Jesus loves us. We believe we are many members, but one body in Christ, and called to unite all people in God’s love. We welcome and affirm all people. We invite those who are seeking God’s presence in their lives to join us on our common journey Our faith community seeks to unite persons of all ages, races, nationalities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, mental and physical abilities, socioeconomic levels and political and theological backgrounds. Together in our diversity, and being empowered and directed by the Holy Spirit, we will “do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8).”

(adopted September 8, 2002 by the congregation)

leadershiP

Senior Minister, Timothy C. Ahrens, M. Div.Associate Minister, Janine Wilson, D. Min.

Minister of Music, Kevin Jones, M.M.Director of Christian Education, Mark S. Williams, M. Ed.Commissioned Minister for Social Justice, Tom Brownfield

Commissioned Minister for Spiritual Formation and Direction, Jacquelyn DeanNursery Staff, Rosemary Pawandiwa-Priore, Summer Petras, Evin Wimberly

Organist Choirmaster Emeritus, G. Dene Barnard

diaConate

Senior Deacon, Bert CookDeacons, Kathryn Bamberger, G. Dene Barnard, Mark Brown, Craig Clay, Jacquelyn Dean,

Christine Farquhar, Betty Johnson, Tom Kiesel, John Matchett, Jonathan Miller, Matt Myers, Pat Patterson, Sue Salak, Bill Wagner

ChurCh staff

Business Manager, Sharon LeidheiserProgram Manager, Martha Worth

Building Manager, Thomas R. LuffOffice Manager, Jaclyn Hamilton

Custodians, William Lee, Mark Freeman, Kelvin MurphyWedding Coordinators, Janet Axt, Fran Panek, Lisa Fravel-Dean, Tori Stucke

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST444 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215-3885

phone: 614.228.1741 fax: 614.461.1741 www.first–church.org

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