Preparation for Worship - “Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God. The Lord executes justice for the oppressed; gives food to the hungry & sets the prisoners free. The Lord watches over the strangers; upholds the orphan and the widow. The Lord will reign forever!” (Psalm 145:7-9)

Prelude “Angels We Have Heard on High” French carol Rachel Ordaz, flute Please sign & pass the red Friendship pad

Opening Prayer

*HYMN 143 “Angels From the Realms of Glory”

*Share the Peace of Christ

The Word Became Flesh (read as indicated; Luke 1:46-55)

Leader: God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin engaged to marry a man named Joseph, from the family of David. Her name was Mary. The angel said -

Men: Greetings! The Lord has blessed you, and is with you!

Leader: But Mary was startled.

Men: Don’t be afraid, Mary; God has shown you his grace. You will give birth to a son and name him Jesus. He will be great, and his kingdom will know no end.

Women: How can this happen?

Men: The power of the Most High will cover you and the baby will be called the Son of God.

Women: Then so it shall be, for I am the servant of the Lord.

“Mary, Did You Know” Buddy Greene

Barry Martin, soloist

Mary, did you know that your baby boy would one day walk on water? Mary did you know that your baby boy would save our sons & daughters?

Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new? This child that you’ll deliver, will soon deliver you . . .

Wycliffe Presbyterian Church

Sunday, December 15, 2019 ~ The Third Sunday in Advent

Rev. Dr. Garrett Bugg, pastor

Mary & Joseph travel to Bethlehem . . .

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to his own town to register.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem, the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.

He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

- remain seated & sing -

“O Little Town of Bethlehem” (p.121)

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.

In Bethlehem, the baby Jesus is born . . .

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

“Night of the Father’s Love” text: A. Prudentius & J. Mohr;

tune: DIVINUM MYSTERIUM & Gruber

Of the Father’s love begotten, ere the worlds began to be, he is Alpha & Omega. He, the source, the ending, he.

Of the things that are, that have been and the future years shall see, evermore and evermore.

- all sing when directed -

“Silent Night”

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.

There were shepherds watching their sheep . . .

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

And suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to all people.”

- all sing -

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” (p.119)

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!”

So the shepherds hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they saw him, they knelt and worshipped him, and Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart.

- all sing -

“What Child is This” (p. 145)

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!

Wise Men saw his star in the East and came to worship him . . . The star stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced and came to kneel before the child, bowed and worshipped him. Then they opened treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

- all sing -

“We Three Kings” (p.151)

We three kings of Orient are; bearing gifts we traverse afar,

field and fountain, moor and mountain, following yonder star.

O - star of wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright,

westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to they perfect light!

‘Kneeling in Bethlehem’ Ann Weems

This year, let’s all go to Bethlehem and see this thing that the Lord has made known to us. In the midst of shopping sprees, let’s ponder the Gift of Gifts. Through tinsel and glitter let’s look for the gold of the Christmas Star. Amidst the excitement and merry chaos, let’s listen for the brush of angels’ wings. This year, let’s go to Bethlehem, and find our own kneeling place.

“Away in a Manger” (all sing) - p.115

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

Lighting the third Advent Candle

as the offering is received ~ “Arietta” C. Callahan

Hear these words from the prophet Isaiah (35:1-10)

The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; and like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing.

Say to those who have a fearful heart, “Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come and save you.” Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; the lame shall leap like a deer, and the speechless sing for joy. Waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert.

A highway shall be there and it shall be called the Holy Way, and shall be for God’s people. And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, singing to Zion. Everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

The Pastor’s Prayer followed by The Lord’s Prayer (p.35, hymnal)

I have seen Joy face to face.

She took my arm in the crook of hers and spun me around until I couldn’t help but laugh.

And I ran into Joy in my mother’s recipe box. Her handwriting looked like my grandmother's.

And she smelled like our famous chocolate cake.

I’ve seen Joy on the loose,

running to keep up. Did you know that Joy is looking for us?

The world seems scary and love can feel fleeting.

She delights in who we are.

She was dancing.

We met in the kitchen with Motown and then again at your wedding.

Once I saw Joy in the street. She was at a parade. There was glitter in the air and a father hugged his son. Joy cried happy tears.

I know that your heart hurts, and that you’re not sure if you like yourself.

But Joy told me to tell you - she’s at the door.

She’s inviting you to dance. I pray you’ll let her in. I pray, and pray, and pray.

Joy Can’t Wait ~

*We Affirm Our Faith (all read the bold)

People of God, in whom do you believe?

We believe in God the Father who sent John the Baptist as a voice crying out in the wilderness, who calls all persons to repentance and faith, who prepares the way for the coming of his Son.

We believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord whose first Advent was foretold by prophets and announced by angelic messengers, whose birth at Bethlehem occurred among throngs of humble travelers, whose second coming will be in power and glory.

We believe in the Spirit of God who preserved the Christ Child from the wrath of King Herod, who directed Wise Men from the East to the baby Jesus, and who guides each of us in the Holy Way.

*Hymn 134 “Joy to the World

*Announcements & Benediction

*All sing “Gloria” (Glo- - ria, in excelsis Deo! Glo- - ria, in excelsis Deo!)

Join us for coffee & conversation in the Fellowship Hall (to the left as you leave the sanctuary)

A Reflection ~ Rev. Dr. Garrett Bugg

Welcome our guest musician

Today we welcome Rachel Ordaz, flute, to the worship service. Rachel is a native of Chicago and earned performance degrees from Carnegie Mellon University and the

Peabody Conservatory at Johns Hopkins University. She is a member of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and also serves on the Performing Artist faculty at Virginia Wesleyan.

Wycliffe Presbyterian Church Weekly Announcements ~ December 15, 2019

www.wycliffepresbyterian.org

The beautiful flowers in the chancel today are given to the glory of God by

Jamie & Josh Smith in memory of Ralph and Virginia Gause.

Kids Club ~ Sailing Into

God’s New Beginnings

The Winter Session of Kids Club is starting back in January for a 6 week term. Starting Jan. 15th, kids ages 3 yrs to 5th grade are welcome to join us on Wednesday from 5:30-7:00 pm. Each session includes dinner, a bible story, crafts, science experiments, and music.

Children's Service ~ 3:00 pm With familiar carols, a retelling of the Christmas story, and an opportunity for a special blessing.

Candlelight, Carols, and Communion 5:00 pm ~ What Can't Wait: God did not wait for the world to be perfect. Jesus was born in the midst of conflict and suffering. God couldn't wait to be love in the flesh--neither should we!

Office Schedule for Christmas & New Years

Our administrator, Judy Dodaro, will be out of the office from December 23rd,

returning January 6th. Check requests and new announcements must be turned in by

Monday, December 16th.

Happy Holidays

Christmas Cookie Swap

On Dec. 22nd join our Fellowship Team for a congregational “Christmas Cookie Swap”

after the morning worship service. Bake (or buy) a small batch of your favorite Christmas cookie to share with your fellow Wycliffe members. Coffee, hot chocolate and cold drinks will be served. Contact Francie or Thad if you can contribute something sweet to share. Email or call us at brake84@cox.net or 481-4528. Thanking you in advance for your participation.

Joy Offering As Christmas grows ever closer, we think about gifts, and what might make them perfect. As Christians, we know that God gave us the most perfect gift of all time,

Jesus Christ. What a powerful gift! We can offer our own gifts through the Christmas Joy Offering, which will be collected this Sunday and the next. One of the names given to Jesus is Emmanuel, which means "God is with us." We, too, can share the power of being "with" those in need by support-ing this very important offering. Thank You! CSM

Thank you to my Wycliffe Family

I want to thank everyone for the cards, emails, texts, phone calls and caring thoughts during my recent unexpected hospitalization. Especially, I want to thank you for your prayers; I know deep in my heart your prayers are what helped me recover much faster than the doctors expected. I have felt your love and caring every day and it has renewed my energy and spirits.

God Bless you all, Don Klimkiewicz

From the Worship Committee

Thank you to everyone who came out for the “Hanging of the Greens” to help prepare our church with decorations for Advent. We are grateful for your willingness and energy to assist us. Many hands made light work! See all of you in church on Sunday. Thanks from your Worship Committee

Youth Group Sponsored Christmas Caroling

We and other Wycliffians who wish to spread Christmas cheer will meet at Pat Carney’s this evening at 5 pm. Please bring a dozen cookies to share and feel free to wear your festive Christmas attire.

Prayer List Remember the following in your Prayers:

Josie Collier, Robert Hudson, Tanner Effinger, Verna

Brainard, Vin deLalla, June Beeler, Shirley Fahrney,

Nelda Fink, Bettye & Scotty Gaiennie, Delores Griffin,

Carol & Jack Hall, Harry Jeavons, Dot Laughlin, Billie &

Manning Merritt, Connie Sandler, Darrell Kennedy,

Cathy Maston, Julie Mainard, Betty Smith, & Carol

Gunter.

Those serving in the military:

Justin Kirkpatrick, USN, Josh Smith, USN; Brandon Burns, USA; Jacob Burns, USMC; Courtney Clinton, USN; Chris Prybella, USN; Martha Adams, USN; Brad Johnson, USN; Sean Trombly, USN; Ryan Hanson, USCG; Lance Hecker, USN; Taylor Black, USA; William Daniel Cole, USAF; Jim Hurt, USN; Aaron Leyko, USCG. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please take the list and pray for each other. To add or remove names on the list, call Judy 496-2620

Wycliffe Weekly Events

Sunday 9:00 am Adult Sunday School

9:00 am Teen Sunday School

9:30 am Choir Rehearsal

10:00 am Worship

10:15 am Children’s Sunday School Class

4:00 pm Cub Scouts

5:00 pm Youth Group Caroling

Monday 9:00 am Bridge Group

5:30 pm Girl Scouts (RM 107)

7:00 pm Boy Scouts (FH)

Tuesday 10:00 am Coffee & Conversation

6:00 pm Girl Scouts (RM 107)

Wednesday 12:00 pm Lunch with Pastor Bugg

7:00 pm Session Meeting

7:00 pm Girl Scouts (RM 107)

7:00 pm Yoga

Thursday 3:30 pm Grief Support Group

6:30 pm Handbells

Friday 7:30 pm AA

Worship Attendance Last Week: 129

Advent III December 15

“Delight Can't Wait"

Children's Christmas Pageant

In the third week of Advent, we focus on the joy

that sustains in the midst of brokenness and fear.

Advent IV December 22

"Love Can't Wait"

A Rollicking Celtic Christmas

The fourth week of Advent focuses on love.

Can we be brave enough to love one another

and respond to God's call?

Christmas Eve December 24

Children's Christmas: 3 pm

Candlelight, Carols, & Communion: 5 pm

Children's Service with familiar carols,

a retelling of the Christmas story,

and an opportunity for a special blessing.

Advent is a season of waiting, but is idle waiting

really what God wants of us? In preparation for the coming

Messiah, we'll wonder together - what things can't wait? What demands our

immediate attention? What requires our work and

preparation?

This Advent, we invite you to imagine, prioritize and prepare!

Leaf Raking Rescheduled

Leaf raking day postponed to Dec. 21, from 9am to noon. I know this is close to Christmas, but we gotta git-er-done! There are tarps & rakes in the shed for independent leaf removal—coordinate with Bill Wahab for access. Please pile the leaves on the old leaf pile not on the adjacent tree branches and brush pile.

Thank you for your continued very valuable help with Facilities on going projects. - Bill Wahab

Lunch with Pastor bugg

We will meet at Motsie’s Sea Grille this Wednesday at 12 pm. Located at 401 N. Great Neck Road in the Renaissance Place. Looking forward to seeing you.