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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Worship | Jan. 17, 2020

1/17/2021

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We give thanks to Church Anew who, "leaning into a year with further determination to combat racism in all its forms after the death of Mr. George Floyd," has provided this week's virtual worship service in commemoration of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | First Sunday after Epiphany (Jan. 10, 2021)

1/9/2021

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Click to Zoom Fellowship @ 10:30am

WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor
Sharon Gabriel, lector
Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, Trai Dunlap, vocalists
Trai Dunlap & Steven Hobert, musicians
Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer | Amy Koopman, videographer

WORSHIP BULLETIN

Welcome

Gathering Carol: Angels We Have Heard on High ELW 289

Epiphany Dialogue
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.
   The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Those who dwelt in the land of deep darkness, on them light has shined.
   We have beheld Christ’s glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father.
For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given.
   In him was life, and the life was the light of all people.

Greeting
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ who is Savior and Lord, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
And also with you.

Opening Prayer (In Unison)
Everlasting God, the radiance of all faithful people, you brought the nations to the brightness of your rising. Fill the world with your glory, and show yourself to all the world through him who is the true light and the bright morning star, your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Lesson: Isaiah 12:2-6
2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my
strength and my might; he has become my salvation.
3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
4 And you will say in that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known his
deeds among the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted.
5 Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth.
6 Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.

Response: Hark the Herald Angels Sing (refrain only)

Lesson: John 1:1-14
    1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 4 in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.
    10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. 12 But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.
    14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth

Carol: Jesus the Light of the World TFF 59

Lesson: Isaiah 61:1-3
1 The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me
to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty
to the captives, and release to the prisoners;
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort
all who mourn;
3 to provide for those who mourn in Zion— to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil
of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. They will be
called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, to display his glory.

Response: Hark the Herald Angels Sing (refrain only)

Lesson: Luke 1:26-35
26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 34 Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God.

Carol: O little town of Bethlehem ELW 279

Lesson: Isaiah 6:1-8
In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. 2 Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3 And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.”
4 The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke. 5 And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!”
6 Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. 7 The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.” 8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!”

Response: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (refrain only)

Lesson: John 1:19-23, 29-34
19 This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed and did not deny it, but confessed, “I am not the Messiah.”[a] 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the prophet?” He answered, “No.” 22 Then they said to him, “Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said,
“I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness,
‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’”
as the prophet Isaiah said.
29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” 32 And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. 33 I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.”

Carol: Away in a Manger ELW 277

Nicene Creed
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven,was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,and his kingdom will have no end.We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Offering Prayer
O God, receive these gifts as you receive us: like a mother receives her child, with arms open wide. Nourish us anew in your tender care, and empower us in faithful service to tend to others with this same love, through Jesus Christ, our saving grace. Amen.

Offering Carol The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy TFF 53

Responsive Prayer
Glory to God in the highest,
  and peace to God’s people on earth.
Blessed are you, Prince of peace. You rule the earth with truth and justice.
  Send your gift of peace to all nations of the world.
Blessed are you, Son of Mary. You share our humanity.
  Have mercy on the sick, the dying, and all who suffer this day.
Blessed are you, Son of God. You dwell among us as the Word made flesh.
  Reveal yourself to us in word and sacrament that we may bear your light to all the world.

The Lord’s Prayer
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing
God the creator strengthen you; Jesus the beloved fill you;
and the Holy Spirit the comforter ☩ keep you in peace. Amen.

Sending Carol: Go tell it on the mountain TFF 52

Dismissal
Go in peace. Be the light of Christ.
Thanks be to God.

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | Second Sunday after Christmas (Jan. 3, 2021)

1/2/2021

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Join Zoom Fellowship at 10:30am

WORSHIP BULLETIN
Second Sunday after Christmas | Word and Prayer

PRELUDE & WELCOME

CHRISTMAS GREETING
We praise you, O God, for your creating Word!
You set the foundations of the world and gave breath to every living thing. There is no Rock like you. Blessed be God, forevermore;
Our hearts sing of your mercy and might!
We praise you, O God, for your liberating Word!
In your steadfast love you led the people whom you redeemed, you guided them by your strength to the land of promise. You have lifted up the lowly. Blessed be God, forevermore;
Our hearts sing of your mercy and might!
We praise you, O God, for your life-giving Word!
Your Word became flesh and lived among us, full of grace and truth. You have looked with favor on the lowliness of your servants. Blessed be God, forevermore;
Our hearts sing of your mercy and might!
Blessed be God, from this time on and forevermore, from the rising of the sun to its setting. With Miriam, Hannah, and Mary, we give you thanks and praise for your creating, liberating, and life-giving Word! Send us forth in the power of your Spirit to sing of your greatness and serve all people, following Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.     (Exodus 15; 1 Samuel 2; Psalm 113; Luke 1; John 1)

PRAYER OF THE DAY
We pray: Almighty God, you have filled all the earth with the light of your incarnate Word. By your grace empower us to reflect your light in all that we do, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen

HYMN: Jesus, What a Wonderful Child TFF 51

THE WORD

First Reading: Jeremiah 31:7-14
7 Thus says the Lord:
Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob,
and raise shouts for the chief of the nations;
proclaim, give praise, and say,
“Save, O Lord, your people,
the remnant of Israel.”
8 See, I am going to bring them from the land of the north,
and gather them from the farthest parts of the earth,
among them the blind and the lame,
those with child and those in labor, together;
a great company, they shall return here.
9 With weeping they shall come,
and with consolations I will lead them back,
I will let them walk by brooks of water,
in a straight path in which they shall not stumble;
for I have become a father to Israel,
and Ephraim is my firstborn.

10 Hear the word of the Lord, O nations,
and declare it in the coastlands far away;
say, “He who scattered Israel will gather him,
and will keep him as a shepherd a flock.”
11 For the Lord has ransomed Jacob,
and has redeemed him from hands too strong for him.
12 They shall come and sing aloud on the height of Zion,
and they shall be radiant over the goodness of the Lord,
over the grain, the wine, and the oil,
and over the young of the flock and the herd;
their life shall become like a watered garden,
and they shall never languish again.
13 Then shall the young women rejoice in the dance,
and the young men and the old shall be merry.
I will turn their mourning into joy,
I will comfort them, and give them gladness for sorrow.
14 I will give the priests their fill of fatness,
and my people shall be satisfied with my bounty,
says the Lord.
The Word of God (Thanks be to God)

Psalm 147:12-20
12 Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion!
13 For he strengthens the bars of your gates; he blesses your children within you.
14 He grants peace[a] within your borders; he fills you with the finest of wheat.
15 He sends out his command to the earth; his word runs swiftly.
16 He gives snow like wool; he scatters frost like ashes.
17 He hurls down hail like crumbs— who can stand before his cold?
18 He sends out his word, and melts them; he makes his wind blow, and the waters flow.
19 He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and ordinances to Israel.
20 He has not dealt thus with any other nation; they do not know his ordinances.
Praise the Lord!

Second Reading: Ephesians 1:3-14
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4 just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. 5 He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace 8 that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight 9 he has made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. 11 In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, 12 so that we, who were the first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 13 In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; 14 this is the pledge of our inheritance toward redemption as God’s own people, to the praise of his glory.

Gospel Acclamation: Jesus, the Light of the World

The Holy Gospel According to John 1:1-18
[C: Glory to you, O Lord]
[1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was in the beginning with God. 3All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 4in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. 5The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
6There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. 9The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.]
10He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. 11He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. 12But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, 13who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.
14And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. 15(John testified to him and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’ ”) 16From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. 17The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known.
P: The Gospel of the Lord C: Praise to you, O Christ

SERMON: Mr. David Scherer

HYMN: The First Noel ELW 300

CONFESSION of FAITH The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven,was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended in to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,and his kingdom will have no end.We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

OFFERING PRAYER: We pray: Gracious God, you came to us as one unknown,bringing joy and salvation to the earth. Nourish us at your banquet table, that with all who welcome your birth we may proclaim your peace,revealed in Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

SHARING of the PEACE!
The Peace of Christ be with you always! And also with you.

PRAYERS of INTERCESSION: The Lord is My Light
...Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

THE LORD’S PRAYER
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

SENDING

BLESSING:
Almighty God,who sent the Holy Spirit to Mary, proclaimed joy through the angels,sent the shepherds with good news,and led the magi by a star, bless you this day ☩ through the Word made flesh. Amen.

DISMISSAL:
May God’s peace be with you ‘til we meet again (2x)
‘Til we reach that distant shore, and we shed a tear no more,
May God give you strength to endure
‘Til we meet again (2x)

L: Go in peace. Share the gift of Jesus.
C: Thanks be to God

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | First Sunday after Christmas (Dec. 27, 2020)

12/27/2020

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WORSHIP HOSTED by the MINNEAPOLIS AREA SYNOD
with gratitude to Bishop Ann Svennungsen and Synod Staff Worship Leaders

WORSHIP BULLETIN:

SERMON TRANSCRIPT

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | Christmas Eve (Dec. 24, 2020)

12/24/2020

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WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly - interim pastor
Paul Koopman - lector
Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, Trai Dunlap, Steven Hobert,
Amy and Paul Koopman - musicians
Dave Scharnhorst - audio engineer

CHRISTMAS EVE
Word, Carols, and Prayer

WELCOME

THE PROPHETIC ANNOUNCEMENT Isaiah 9: 2-7
2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. 3You 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. 4For 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. 5For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
6For 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. 7His 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.
Word of God; Word of Life Thanks be to God.

GATHERING HYMN Hark! The Herald Angels Sing ELW 270

CHRISTMAS LITANY
Come away, come away, come today to Bethlehem.
Come adore on bended knee, the one whose birth the angels sing.
Come away, come away, from the busyness of preparations and the distraction of too much to accomplish in too little time.
Come with wonder, come with awe to join the shepherds as they worship the newborn King.
Come away, come away, come with all your heart carries for you will be welcomed with mercy and grace.
Come with singing and thanksgiving, the Christ has come with peace and love to embrace our world.
Come away, come away, come today to Bethlehem.

CAROL: Little Drummer Boy Traiveon Dunlap

A PRAYER FOR CHRISTMAS
The grace of our Lord… be with you all. And also with you.
We pray. We praise you, Gracious God, that in Jesus Christ you have come to speak your Word of love and life. Touch us with unearthly joy, like the singing of angels; fill us with wonder, like the eyes of children; teach us to humble ourselves before you, like the visiting shepherds. May our journey to the manger be only the beginning of service to Jesus our Christ. Amen.

CAROL: This Christmas Emander Deward

CHRISTMAS GOSPEL Luke 2: 1-20 Glory to you, O Lord
1In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3All went to their own towns to be registered. 4Joseph 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. 5He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7And 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.
8In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 14“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” 15When 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.” 16So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. 17When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
The gospel of the Lord! Praise to you, O Christ.

BLESSING OF NATIVITY & HOMILY Pastor Kelly

CAROL: O Holy Night Alyssa Schwitzer

BLESSING OF PEACE

CHRISTMAS OFFERING APPEAL Pastor Kelly

OFFERING PRAYER
We pray: Gracious God, you came to us as one unknown, bringing joy and salvation to the earth. Nourish us at your banquet table, that with all who welcome your birth we may proclaim your peace, revealed in Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

OFFERTORY Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming Steven Hobert

PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
O Lord hear us… Graciously, hear us

THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our 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 forever. Amen.

LITANY OF LIGHT
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
For to us a child is born, to us our Lord is given.
In Jesus is life and his life is the light of all.

CAROL: O Light Amy and Paul Koopman

BENEDICTION
The Wonderful Counselor guide you, The Mighty God protect you, The Everlasting Father be with you, The Prince of Peace inspire you, And the blessing of God, Father, Son (+), and Holy Spirit, be upon you now and evermore. Amen

CANDLELIGHT CAROL: Silent Night ELW 281

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"DO NOT BE AFRAID" Children's Virtual Christmas Pageant

12/24/2020

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Do Not Be Afraid!
2020 Children's Christmas Pageant
Presented in collaboration with families from Redeemer, Edina Community Lutheran Church, St. Paul's Lutheran Church - Iglasia Luterana San Pablo,
and Christ the River of Life Lutheran Church
Edited by Kelly Rowley of Edina Community Lutheran Church

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | Fourth Sunday in Advent (December 20, 2020)

12/20/2020

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JOIN ZOOM FELLOWSHIP at 10:30AM

WORSHIP LEADERS:
Interim pastor: The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly
Lector and Intercessor: Pastor Babette Chatman
Advent Candle Lighter: Elijah Koopman
Musicians: Alyssa Schwitzer, Steven Hobert, Traiveon Dunlap
Sound Engineer: Dave Scharnhorst | Videographer: Amy Koopman

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT
Worship Bulletin

LIGHTING of the ADVENT WREATH
We praise you, O God, for this wheel of time that marks our days of preparation for Christ’s advent. As we light the candles on this wreath, open our eyes to see your presence in the lowly ones of this earth. Enlighten us with your grace, that we may sing of your advent among us in the Word made flesh. Grant this through Christ our Lord, whose coming is certain and whose day draws near. Amen.

ADVENT GREETING
Holy God, the Beginning and the Ending, our Hope as we wait, we praise you for joining us to your people of old. We bless you for your prophets who call us to righteousness and promise a new earth with peace for all.
For the Word of your covenant, we thank you, O God. We thank you, O God.
We praise you for the coming of Jesus our Lord, who lifts up the lowly, heals the suffering world, and proclaims your way of mercy and truth.
For your Word who is Christ, we magnify you, O God. We magnify you, O God.
Send your Spirit on all who receive your Word. Nurture our faith with your grace, accompany us with your might, and empower our zeal for your justice and joy. For your Word through the church, we praise you, O God. We praise you, O God.
All praise to you, holy God, today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY
We pray: Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. With your abundant grace and might, free us from the sin that would obstruct your mercy, that willingly we may bear your redeeming love to all the world, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

HYMN: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (TFF 257)

THE WORD

First Reading: 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
1 Now when the king was settled in his house, and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, 2 the king said to the prophet Nathan, “See now, I am living in a house of cedar, but the ark of God stays in a tent.” 3 Nathan said to the king, “Go, do all that you have in mind; for the Lord is with you.”
4 But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan: 5 Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the Lord: Are you the one to build me a house to live in? 6 I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day, but I have been moving about in a tent and a tabernacle. 7 Wherever I have moved about among all the people of Israel, did I ever speak a word with any of the tribal leaders of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, saying, “Why have you not built me a house of cedar?” 8 Now therefore thus you shall say to my servant David: Thus says the Lord of hosts: I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep to be prince over my people Israel; 9 and I have been with you wherever you went, and have cut off all your enemies from before you; and I will make for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. 10 And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place, and be disturbed no more; and evildoers shall afflict them no more, as formerly, 11 from the time that I appointed judges over my people Israel; and I will give you rest from all your enemies. Moreover the Lord declares to you that the Lord will make you a house. 16 Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever.
L: Word of God, Word of Life. C: Thanks be to God.

Psalm: THE MAGNIFICAT
(My Soul Proclaims Your Greatness, ELW 251)
My soul proclaims your greatness, Lord; I sing my Savior’s praise!
You looked upon my lowliness, and I am full of grace.
Now every land and every age this blessing shall proclaim -
Great wonders you have done for me, and holy is your name.

To all who live in holy fear your mercy ever flows.
With mighty arm you dash the proud, their scheming hearts expose.
The ruthless you have cast aside, the lowly throned instead;
The hungry filled with all good things, the rich sent off unfed.

To Israel, your servant blest, your help is ever sure;
The promise to our parents made their children will secure.
Sing glory to the Holy One, give honor to the Word,
And praise the Pow’r of the Most High, one God, by all adored.

Second Reading: Romans 16:25-27
25 Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages 26 but is now disclosed, and through the prophetic writings is made known to all the Gentiles, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith—27 to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever! Amen.
L: Word of God, Word of Life. C: Thanks be to God

Gospel Acclamation: Soon and Very Soon

The Holy Gospel According to Luke 1:26-38
C: Glory to you, O Lord
26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 34 Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. 36 And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.
P: The Gospel of the Lord C: Praise to you, O Christ

SERMON: Pastor Kelly

HYMN: Joy to the World (ELW 267)

CONFESSION of FAITH The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven,was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended in to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,and his kingdom will have no end.We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,who has spoken through the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.
Amen.

OFFERING PRAYER:
We pray: Generous God, you have created all that is, and you provide for us in every season. Bless all that we offer, that through these gifts the world will receive your blessing. In the name of Jesus, Emmanuel, we pray. Amen.

SHARING of the PEACE!
The Peace of Christ be with you always! And also with you.

PRAYERS of INTERCESSION
Lord, Listen to your children praying (TFF 247)
...Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

THE LORD’S PRAYER (traditional)
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

SENDING

BENEDICTION:
The Creator of the stars bless your Advent waiting, the long-expected Savior fill you with love, the unexpected Spirit guide your journey, ☩ now and forever. Amen.

DISMISSAL:
May God’s peace be with you ‘til we meet again (2x)
‘Til we reach that distant shore, and we shed a tear no more,
May God give you strength to endure
‘Til we meet again (2x)

L: Go in peace. Prepare the way of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | Third Sunday in Advent (Dec. 13, 2020)

12/13/2020

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Annual Budget Meeting + Fellowship | 10:30am

WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor
Alyssa, Mark, and Elizabeth Hanson, readers
Alyssa Schwitzer and Steven Hobert, musicians
Amy Koopman, intercessor & videographer
Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer

Third Sunday of Advent | December 13, 2020

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DECEMBER MEMBERS!
Birthday song by Bill Dexheimer Pharris

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH
We pray: Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. Your prophets spoke of a day when the desert would blossom and waters would break forth in the wilderness. Bless us as we light the candles on this wreath. Strengthen our hearts as we prepare for the coming of the Lord. May he give water to all who thirst, for he is our light and our salvation. Blessed be God forever. Amen.

ADVENT GREETING
Holy God, the Beginning and the Ending, our Hope as we wait, we praise you for joining us to your people of old. We bless you for your prophets who call us to righteousness and promise a new earth with peace for all.
For the Word of your covenant, we thank you, O God. We thank you, O God.
We praise you for the coming of Jesus our Lord, who lifts up the lowly, heals the suffering world, and proclaims your way of mercy and truth.
For your Word who is Christ, we magnify you, O God. We magnify you, O God.
Send your Spirit on all who receive your Word. Nurture our faith with your grace, accompany us with your might, and empower our zeal for your justice and joy. For your Word through the church, we praise you, O God. We praise you, O God.
All praise to you, holy God, today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY
We pray: Stir up the wills of your faithful people, Lord God, and open our ears to the words of your prophets, that, anointed by your Spirit, we may testify to your light; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

HYMN: All Earth Is Hopeful

THE WORD
First Reading: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
    1 The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners; 2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; 3 to provide for those who mourn in Zion— to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. They will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, to display his glory. 4 They shall build up the ancient ruins, they shall raise up the former devastations; they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.
    8 For I the Lord love justice, I hate robbery and wrongdoing; I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. 9 Their descendants shall be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge that they are a people whom the Lord has blessed. 10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my whole being shall exult in my God; for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. 11 For as the earth brings forth its shoots, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all the nations.
L: Word of God, Word of Life. C: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 126
1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, then were we like those who dream.
2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy. Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad indeed.
4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the watercourses of the Negeb.
5 Those who sowed with tears will reap with songs of joy.
6 Those who go out weeping, carrying the seed, will come again with joy, shouldering their sheaves.

Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise the words of prophets, 21 but test everything; hold fast to what is good; 22 abstain from every form of evil.
23 May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.
L: Word of God, Word of Life. C: Thanks be to God

Gospel Acclamation: Soon and Very Soon

The Holy Gospel According to John 1:6-8, 19-28
C: Glory to you, O Lord
    6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.
    19 This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed and did not deny it, but confessed, “I am not the Messiah.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the prophet?” He answered, “No.” 22 Then they said to him, “Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said,
“I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ ” as the prophet Isaiah said.
24 Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. 25 They asked him, “Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” 26 John answered them, “I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, 27 the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal.” 28 This took place in Bethany across the Jordan where John was baptizing.
P: The Gospel of the Lord C: Praise to you, O Christ

SERMON: Pastor Kelly

HYMN: Somebody's Knockin' at Your Door

CONFESSION of FAITH The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven,was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended
into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,and his kingdom will have no end.We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,who has spoken through the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.
Amen.

OFFERING PRAYER:
We pray: Generous God, you have created all that is, and you provide for us in every season. Bless all that we offer, that through these gifts the world will receive your blessing. In the name of Jesus, Emmanuel, we pray. Amen

SHARING of the PEACE!
The Peace of Christ be with you always! And also with you.

PRAYERS of INTERCESSION
Lord, Listen to your children praying
...Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

THE LORD’S PRAYER (traditional)
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

SENDING
BENEDICTION:
The Creator of the stars bless your Advent waiting, the long-expected Savior fill you with love, the unexpected Spirit guide your journey, ☩ now and forever. Amen.

DISMISSAL:
May God’s peace be with you ‘til we meet again (2x)
‘Til we reach that distant shore, and we shed a tear no more,
May God give you strength to endure
‘Til we meet again (2x)

L: Beloved of God, go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | Second Sunday in Advent (Dec. 6, 2020)

12/6/2020

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Zoom Fellowship at 9:30am

WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor
The Rev. Sally Ankerfelt, guest preacher
Sarah Stadie, reader
Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, vocalists
Steven Hobert, piano
Amy Koopman, intercessor & videographer
Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer

Second Sunday of Advent
                    December 6, 2020

WELCOME

PRELUDE/ LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH AND PRAYER (Hulden-Albanese Family) We pray: Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. John the Baptist calls all people to prepare the Lord’s way for the kingdom of heaven is near. Bless us as we light the candles on this wreath. Baptize us with the fire of your Spirit, that we may be a light shining in the darkness welcoming others as Christ has welcomed us, for he is our light and our salvation.
Blessed be God forever. Amen.

ADVENT GREETING
Holy God, the Beginning and the Ending, our Hope as we wait, we praise you for joining us to your people of old. We bless you for your prophets who call us to righteousness and promise a new earth with peace for all. For the Word of your covenant, we thank you, O God.
We thank you, O God.
We praise you for the coming of Jesus our Lord, who lifts up the lowly, heals the suffering world, and proclaims your way of mercy and truth.
For your Word who is Christ, we magnify you, O God.
We magnify you, O God. Send your Spirit on all who receive your Word. Nurture our faith with your grace, accompany us with your might, and empower our zeal for your justice and joy. For your Word through the church, we praise you, O God.
We praise you, O God.
All praise to you, holy God, today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY
We pray: Stir up our hearts, Lord God, to prepare the way of your only Son. By his coming strengthen us to serve you with purified lives; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

HYMN: More

THE WORD

First Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11
1 Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God. 2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that she has served her term, that her penalty is paid, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.
3 A voice cries out: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be lifted up,
and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 5 Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” 6 A voice says, “Cry out!” And I said, “What shall I cry?” All people are grass, their constancy is like the flower of the field. 7 The grass withers, the flower fades, when the breath of the Lord blows upon it; surely the people are grass. 8 The grass withers, the flower fades; but the word of our God will stand forever. 9 Get you up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good tidings; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good tidings, lift it up, do not fear; say to the cities of Judah, “Here is your God!” 10 See, the Lord God comes with might, and his arm rules for him; his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. 11 He will feed his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and gently lead the mother sheep.

Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 (Read in unison)
8 Let me hear what God the Lordwill speak, for he will speak peace to his
people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.
9 Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him,
    that his glory may dwell in our land.
10 Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;
    righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
11 Faithfulness will spring up from the ground,
    and righteousness will look down from the sky.
12 The Lord Will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase.
13 Righteousness will go before him, and will make a path for his steps.

Second Reading: 2 Peter 3:8-15a
8 Do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. 9 The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, and the elements will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and everything that is done on it will be disclosed.
11 Since all these things are to be dissolved in this way, what sort of persons ought you to be in leading lives of holiness and godliness, 12 waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set ablaze and dissolved, and the elements will melt with fire? 13 But, in accordance with his promise, we wait for new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness is at home.
    14 Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish; 15a and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation.
L: Word of God, Word of Life. C: Thanks be to God

Gospel Acclamation: Soon and Very Soon

The Holy Gospel According to Mark 1:1-8 (C: Glory to you, O Lord)
1 The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2 As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; 3 the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,’ ”
4 John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7 He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. 8 I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
P: The Gospel of the Lord C: Praise to you, O Christ

SERMON: The Reverend Sally Ankerfelt

HYMN: He Came Down

CONFESSION of FAITH The Nicene Creed
     We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.
     We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,and his kingdom will have no end.
     We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,who has spoken through the prophets.
     We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.
     We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
     We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.
Amen.

OFFERING PRAYER:
We pray: Generous God, you have created all that is, and you provide for us in every season. Bless all that we offer, that through these gifts the world will receive your blessing. In the name of Jesus, Emmanuel, we pray. Amen.

SHARING of the PEACE!
The Peace of Christ be with you always! And also with you.

PRAYERS of INTERCESSION
Lord, Listen to your children praying (TFF 247)
...Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

THE LORD’S PRAYER (traditional)
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

SENDING

BENEDICTION:
The Creator of the stars bless your Advent waiting, the long-expected Savior fill you with love, the unexpected Spirit guide your journey, ☩ now and forever. Amen.

DISMISSAL:
May God’s peace be with you ‘til we meet again (2x)
‘Til we reach that distant shore, and we shed a tear no more,
May God give you strength to endure
‘Til we meet again (2x)

L: Go in peace. Prepare the way of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God

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Redeemer Virtual Worship | First Sunday in Advent (Nov. 29, 2020)

11/29/2020

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JOIN Zoom Fellowship at 9:30am

WORSHIP LEADERS:

The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor
The Rev. Dr. Robin Bell, guest preacher
Jenny Lutter, reader
Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, vocalists
Steven Hobert, piano
Amy Koopman, intercessor & videographer | Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer

                                        WORSHIP BULLETIN
                                        First Sunday of Advent
                                                             November 29, 2020

PRELUDE/ LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH
Let us pray: We praise you, O God, for this evergreen crown, that marks our days of preparation for Christ’s advent. As we light the first candle on this advent wreath, raise us up from sleep that we may be ready to greet our lord when he comes with all the saints and angels. Enlighten us with your grace and prepare our hearts to welcome him with joy. Grant this through Christ our lord whose coming is certain and whose day draws near. Amen.

ADVENT GREETING
Holy God, the Beginning and the Ending, our Hope as we wait, we praise you for joining us to your people of old.
We bless you for your prophets who call us to righteousness and promise a new earth with peace for all.
For the Word of your covenant, we thank you, O God. We thank you, O God.
We praise you for the coming of Jesus our Lord, who lifts up the lowly, heals the suffering world, and proclaims your way of mercy and truth.
For your Word who is Christ, we magnify you, O God. We magnify you, O God.
Send your Spirit on all who receive your Word.
Nurture our faith with your grace, accompany us with your might, and empower our zeal for your justice and joy.
For your Word through the church, we praise you, O God. We praise you, O God.
All praise to you, holy God, today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY
We pray: Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. By your merciful protection awaken us to the threatening dangers of our sins, and keep us blameless until the coming of your new day, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

HYMN: We Worship You

THE WORD

First Reading: Isaiah 64:1-9
1 O that you would tear open the heavens and come down, so that the mountains would quake at your presence— 2 as when fire kindles brushwood and the fire causes water to boil— to make your name known to your adversaries, so that the nations might tremble at your presence!
3 When you did awesome deeds that we did not expect, you came down, the mountains quaked at your presence. 4 From ages past no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who works for those who wait for him. 5 You meet those who gladly do right, those who remember you in your ways. But you were angry, and we sinned; because you hid yourself we transgressed. 6 We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy cloth. We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away. 7 There is no one who calls on your name, or attempts to take hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us, and have delivered us into the hand of our iniquity. 8 Yet, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. 9 Do not be exceedingly angry, O Lord, and do not remember iniquity forever. Now consider, we are all your people.
L: Word of God, Word of Life. C: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
1 Hear, O Shepherd of Israel, leading Joseph like a flock; shine forth, you that are enthroned upon the cherubim.
2 In the presence of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, stir up your strength and come to help us.
3 Restore us, O God; let your face shine upon us, and we shall be saved.
4 O Lord God of hosts, how long will your anger fume when your people pray?
5 You have fed them with the bread of tears; you have given them bowls of tears to drink.
6 You have made us the derision of our neighbors, and our enemies laugh us to scorn.
7 Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine upon us, and we shall be saved.
17 Let your hand be upon the one at your right hand, the one you have made so strong for yourself.
18 And so will we never turn away from you; give us life, that we may call upon your name.
19 Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; let your face shine upon us, and we shall be saved.

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
4 I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, 5 for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind—6 just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you—7 so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. 8 He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
L: Word of God, Word of Life. C: Thanks be to God

Gospel Acclamation: Soon and Very Soon TFF 38

Pastor: The Holy Gospel According to Mark 13:24-37
C: Glory to you, O Lord
[Jesus said:] 24“In those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory. 27 Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
28“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
32 “But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. 34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. 35 Therefore, keep awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, 36 or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. 37 And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.”
P: The Gospel of the Lord C: Praise to you, O Christ

SERMON: The Rev. Dr. Robin Bell

HYMN: My Lord, What a Morning

CONFESSION of FAITH The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven,was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,and his kingdom will have no end.We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,who has spoken through the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.
Amen.

Affirmation of Vocation: Welcoming to Redeemer The Rev. Paul and Mrs. Jennifer Lutter and daughter Annika

SHARING of the PEACE!
The Peace of Christ be with you always! And also with you.

Offering Prayer
We pray: Generous God, you have created all that is, and you provide for us in every season. Bless all that we offer, that through these gifts the world will receive your blessing. In the name of Jesus, Emmanuel, we pray. Amen.

PRAYERS of INTERCESSION
Lord, Listen to your children praying (TFF 247)
...Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

THE LORD’S PRAYER (traditional)
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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

SENDING

BENEDICTION: The Creator of the stars bless your Advent waiting, the long-expected Savior fill you with love, the unexpected Spirit guide your journey, ☩ now and forever. Amen.

DISMISSAL:
May God’s peace be with you ‘til we meet again (2x)
‘Til we reach that distant shore, and we shed a tear no more,
May God give you strength to endure
‘Til we meet again (2x)

L: Go in peace. Prepare the way of the Lord.
C: Thanks be to God

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We give thanks to Church Anew who, "leaning into a year with further determination to combat racism in all its forms after the death of Mr. George Floyd," has provided this week's virtual worship service in commemoration of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

WORSHIP LEADERS:The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastorSharon Gabriel, lector Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, Trai Dunlap, vocalistsTrai Dunlap & Steven Hobert, musiciansDave Scharnhorst, audio engineer | Amy Koopman, videographer

WORSHIP BULLETIN:

SERMON TRANSCRIPT

WORSHIP LEADERS: The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly - interim pastorPaul Koopman - lector Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, Trai Dunlap, Steven Hobert, Amy and Paul Koopman - musicians Dave Scharnhorst - audio engineer

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENTWorship Bulletin

WORSHIP LEADERS: The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor Alyssa, Mark, and Elizabeth Hanson, readers Alyssa Schwitzer and Steven Hobert, musicians Amy Koopman, intercessor & videographer Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer

WORSHIP LEADERS: The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor The Rev. Sally Ankerfelt, guest preacher Sarah Stadie, reader Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, vocalists Steven Hobert, piano Amy Koopman, intercessor & videographer ​Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer

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WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor
Sharon Gabriel, lector
Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, Trai Dunlap, vocalists
Trai Dunlap & Steven Hobert, musicians
Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer | Amy Koopman, videographer

WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly - interim pastor
Paul Koopman - lector
Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, Trai Dunlap, Steven Hobert,
Amy and Paul Koopman - musicians
Dave Scharnhorst - audio engineer

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT
Worship Bulletin

WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor
Alyssa, Mark, and Elizabeth Hanson, readers
Alyssa Schwitzer and Steven Hobert, musicians
Amy Koopman, intercessor & videographer
Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer

WORSHIP LEADERS:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Kelly, interim pastor
The Rev. Sally Ankerfelt, guest preacher
Sarah Stadie, reader
Alyssa Schwitzer, Emander Deward, vocalists
Steven Hobert, piano
Amy Koopman, intercessor & videographer
Dave Scharnhorst, audio engineer