Jesus Our Hope - Light of the World

First Sunday of Advent

December 3, 2023 at 10:00 AM PT

Call to Worship

1 Corinthians 1:3-7

Let us worship in hope as we begin waiting for the gift of Jesus Christ.

Lighting the Advent Candle of Hope

Today, as we start our season of waiting. We set watch in the night sky and beckon the wise to follow.

When hope hangs low in the human heart, when darkness threatens to overcome our sense of safety and hope for the future, may we kindle our compassion, breathing life into the early embers of change and empathy.

Today, we light a candle for hope, sending prayers into the heavens and dreams deep into the human soul. As Advent begins, let us be aware of your light shining on those who have journeyed before us. May the seeds they planted in the world—hope, peace, love, and joy—take hold in our hearts and stretch toward the light.

Hymn: Silvery Star, Precious Star CCS 419

Silvery Star, Precious Star

Inovcation

Offering

The first Sunday of the month focuses on the Disciples’ Generous Response on Abolish Poverty, End Suffering, which includes oblation ministry.

During the Disciples’ Generous Response, we focus on aligning our heart with God’s heart. Our offerings are more than meeting budgets or funding mission. Through our offerings we can join in making God’s work visible in the world.

As we share our mission tithes either by placing money in the plates or through eTithing, use this time to thank God for the many gifts received in life. Our hearts grow aligned with God’s when we gratefully receive and faithfully respond by living Christ’s mission.

Prayer over the Offering

Special Music: Light of the World - Lauren Daigle

Light of the World

Message

Special Music: Come As You Are - Crowder

Come As You Are

Invitation to Communion

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others might have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.