If you are looking for guidance for a longer time of Sunday worship then you are welcome to use this outline as a starting place.
Definition of Advent – Advent is a season observed in our Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of birth of Christ. The term is an anglicized version of the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming”.
Opening prayer
“Father God, every word in scripture points to the gift of hope that we have because of Christ Jesus. The Christmas story offers us glimpses of your plan to redeem your people and restore them into a relationship with you – may we truly begin to see and understand just how great your love for us is when we read the story of Jesus’ birth in scripture.
Help us to see that you are with us. Nothing is too difficult, too messy, or too dirty for you. Jesus came to give us the gift of eternal life through the salvation that only you, our Heavenly Father, can give to us.
That first Christmas, you gave us the gift of hope wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. Thank you, Father, for your immeasurable gift. In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen. (Hope Bollinger)
Prayer for others
Pray for those struggling with ill health, students writing exams and families struggling with personal issues.
Benediction prayer
The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.