Fourth Sunday of Advent – December 22, 2024
The Order of Worship at 11:00 am
As always, we pray that worship at Redeemer is a blessing for you, even as your participation blesses us, whether we are gathering in the name of Christ in-person or online. As you are comfortable, we encourage you to sing the hymns and to sing or speak the congregational portions of the liturgy in bold type.
Please use the links available on the viewing page to let us know that you are worshiping with us, to submit any prayer requests, to let us know if you need help or are available to help a neighbor, and to continue giving financially to support the ongoing ministries of Redeemer.
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PRELUDE Canticle of the Turning Karen Thompson Carillon Ringers
WELCOME and ANNOUNCEMENTS
GATHERING
The Holy Spirit gathers us in unity on the first day of the week, the day of Christ’s resurrection.
Standing HYMN 726
Light Dawns on a Weary World
CONFESSION
In the name of the Father, and of the ☩ Son, and of the Holy Spirit. | Amen Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may
perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. | Amen.
If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, God who is faithful and just will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Kneeling or seated
Most merciful God, | we confess that we are captive to sin and cannot free ourselves. We have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. For the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, have mercy on us.
Forgive us, renew us, and lead us, so that we may delight in your will and walk in your ways, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.
In the mercy of almighty God, Jesus Christ was given to die for us, and for his sake God forgives us all our sins. As a called and ordained minister of the church of Christ, and by his authority, I therefore declare to you the entire forgiveness of all your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the ☩ Son, and of the Holy Spirit. | Amen Standing GREETING
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. | And also with you.
BLESSING AND LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH
Advent prayer
The trees shall clap their hands; the dry lands, gush with springs; the hills and mountains shall break forth with singing! We shall go out in joy, and be led forth in peace, as all the world in wonder echoes shalom.
The fourth candle is lit
Bless us and let your face shine upon us, more radiant than these candles, and more dear than all else we seek. Restore us when we fail to refuse the evil and choose the good, and banish all our fears.
O people of hope come, Let us keep awake for the Lord is near. Amen
Sung
O come, O Wisdom from on high, embracing all things far and nigh: in strength and beauty come and stay; teach us your will and guide our way.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. | And also with you.
Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. With your abundant grace and might, free us from the sin that binds us, that we may receive you in joy and serve you always, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. | Amen.
Please use the Prayer Request link on the webpage to submit your requests.
WORD
God speaks to us in scriptures read, sung and preached.
Seated CHILDREN’S SERMON
THE FIRST READING Malachi 5:2-5a
Colin Walker, Lector
The prophet Micah, having pronounced judgment upon Judah, speaks of a future shepherd-king who, like David, will come from the small town of Bethlehem. (Ephrathah refers to the area around Bethlehem.) This king will restore Israel and bring peace. New Testament writers understood this passage to be referring to Jesus.
But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me
one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel.
And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth; a and he shall be the one of peace.
Word of God, word of life. | Thanks be to God.
THE SECOND READING
Hebrews 10:5-10
The author of Hebrews uses the image of religious sacrifice to convey the significance of Christ’s coming. Through obedient acceptance of God’s will, Christ allows his own body to become the greatest sacrifice of all, one through which we are made a holy people.
Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said, “Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure.
Then I said, ‘See, God, I have come to do your will, O God’ (in the scroll of the book it is written of me).”
When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), then he added, “See, I have come to do your will.” He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. And it is by God’s will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Word of God, word of life. | Thanks be to God.
Standing GOSPEL ACCLAMATION
Elizabeth, John’s mother, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, are two women filled with the Holy Spirit and with faith. In Elizabeth’s inspired greeting and Mary’s song of praise we hear of a saving God who remembers, scatters, lifts up, and fulfills all things
Before the reading: The Holy Gospel according... | Glory to you, O Lord.
In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.” [
And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
The Gospel of the Lord. | Praise to You, O Christ.
Seated SERMON Bishop Kevin Strickland
APOSTLES CREED
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Kneeling or seated PRAYERS OF
INTERCESSION
Each portion of the prayers concludes: Lord, in your mercy, | receive our prayer. At the conclusion of the prayers: Amen
As we prepare for Emmanuel, God-with-us, let us pray for all people and places that long for God’s presence. A brief silence.
God our uniter, increase communication and cooperation in our relationships with those of other traditions and religions. Root your church in the radical message of your incarnation, and enable us to pursue your justice in the world. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.
God our creator, we praise you for the beauty that surrounds us. Awaken in us a renewed sense of care for the wildlife in our communities including Morningside Nature Preserve and Ormewood Forest. Form us into faithful stewards of what you have made. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.
God our sovereign, Mary proclaims a new way of life that lifts up the lowly and fills the hungry with good things. Nurture in local governments and municipalities a desire to care for all who are overlooked and ignored, especially those searching for affordable housing in Atlanta. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.
God our beacon, as the northern hemisphere begins its slow turn toward more daylight, remind us that even in the deepest nights, you are there. Comfort the lonely and bereaved. Hold closely the frightened, anxious, depressed, and ill especially… Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.
God our guide, shepherd the leadership of this congregation. Bless the council and staff in discerning future ministry and open their hearts to the voices of the community. Bless our Master Planning Team as they work to create facilities that will support our mission for generations to come. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.
God our life, you remember the promises you have made to your people. In gratitude for those who have died especially… we praise you for your faithfulness throughout history. Lord, in your mercy, receive our prayer.
Savior of the nations, come, and receive these prayers and the pleas of our hearts, in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen.
Standing PEACE
The peace of Christ be with you always. | And also with you. Please share a sign of blessing with your fellow worshipers in whatever way is comfortable for you.
ANTHEM
Magnificat in C, Opus 115 Charles V. Stanford
My soul doth magnify the Lord: and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden. For behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath magnified me and holy is his Name. And his mercy is on them that fear him throughout all generations. He hath shewed strength with his arm, he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seat and hath exalted the humble and meek. He hath filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he hath sent empty away. He, remembering his mercy, hath holpen his servant Israel as he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed, forever.
Text from Luke 1:46-55
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Standing OFFERTORY HYMN
OFFERING PRAYER
Creator God, you made the whole world, even the farthest stars, and you draw near to feed us. We praise you for these gifts of bread and wine. Strengthen us with this food that we may live in expectation for the advent of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. | Amen
GREAT THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you. | And also with you. Lift up your hearts! | We lift them to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. | It is right to give our thanks and praise.
It is indeed right, our duty and our joy, that we should at all times and in all places give thanks and praise to you, almighty and merciful God, through our Savior Jesus Christ. You comforted your people with the promise of the Redeemer, through whom you will also make all things new in the day when he comes to judge the world in righteousness. And so, with all the choirs of angels, with the church on earth and the hosts of heaven, we praise your name and join their unending hymn:
We praise you, living and loving God, that you have sent your Son to this world. Christ is your Wisdom, sweetly ordering all creation, our Lawgiver, burning with justice, the Branch from Jesse’s tree, sprouting flowers from old roots, the Key of David, opening our prison doors.
And let the people cry, O come and save us: O come and save us.
We praise you, serving and saving God, that you send your Son also to this table, who on the night before he died took bread, and gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.
Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying:
This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin.
Do this for the remembrance of me.
And let the people cry, O come and save us: O come and save us.
We beg you, mighty and merciful God: send us the Spirit of your Son. Dwell in this food and in all who share it, that the earth may rejoice in your presence. In Christ, the dawn from on high, enlighten your people, reign as Sovereign to unite all, and live among us, Emmanuel, our deepest desire now and forever.
And let the people cry, O come and save us: O come and save us.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus, with your Father and your Spirit, to the church, and receive our praises, now and forever. Amen.
Gathered into one by the Holy Spirit, let us pray…
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.
INVITATION TO COMMUNION
God feeds us with tender mercy. Come to the table. Seated
All who seek to meet the Risen Christ in the bread and wine are welcome to the feast. Those who are worshiping online can join the pastors on Zoom for communion following the postlude. Link
254 Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
Standing
The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace. | Amen
Let us pray. | Generous God, we thank you for the gift of life, for the bread of salvation. We thank you for coming among us, for leading us into peace. We thank you for showering us with mercy, for sending us into the world. Come, Lord Jesus, and go with us as we feed the hungry in your name.
SENDING
God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
BLESSING
God of endings and beginnings, God in the darkness and the light, God, our hope for the journey, ☩ bless and keep you now and forever.| Amen.
HYMN 248
People Look East
SENDING
Go in peace. Prepare the way for Emmanuel.| Thanks be to God.
POSTLUDE
Joy to the World Emma Lou Diemer (1927-2024)
All are invited to stay following the service for a short concert of holiday handbell music.
Mini-Concert Presented by the Carillon Ringers
Ring Joy to the World arr. Dan R. Edwards
Rocking Carol setting by Hart Morris
You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch Albert Hague, arr. Kevin McChesney Fum, Fum, Fum arr. Susan T. Nelson
From sundaysandseasons.com. Copyright © 2021 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.
LAST WEEK AT REDEEMER Attendance for December 15: In person: 283, Online 198
NEXT WEEK AT REDEEMER First Sunday of Christmas
You are invited to join Bishop Strickland for an informal Coffee & Conversation in the Sims Atrium between services.
OFFICIAL RESULTS OF THE CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
On December 15, 2024, the Congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Redeemer held its scheduled Congregation meeting. The purpose of the meeting is the approval of the 2025 Proposed Budget
The motion was approved by the congregation.
Created to Be...Generous
We are asking every family to return their pledge of support to Redeemer’s ministries through our website, email, or by returning your pledge card in the mail or in-person.
Stewardship packets are available at the Welcome Desk in the Sims Atrium.
CHILDREN AND FAMILY
Family Christmas Eve Service
At 3:00 pm on Christmas Eve we will hold our annual Family Christmas Eve service! We love to have our kids help out and lead this special service for their friends, families, and our visitors. Please fill out this short form to express interest if you would like to help. Deacon Mary will then work with you to find the right role for your child (you can also work as a team if your child needs help with the role).
Coming up in Sunday School
December 22 and 29, there will be no Children’s Sunday School due to the holidays. Have a Happy New Year, and we can’t wait to see you again for Sing and Play on January 5!
YOUNG ADULTS
We’re having a winter bonfire Jan. 9 at 7:00 for a time of fellowship, recovery from the holidays, and looking forward into the new year! Invite friends or come make new ones! For location, contact Nate (nhumpherys@redeemer.org).
CHRISTMAS EVE SCHEDULE
11:00 am German Church Atlanta Service
Traditional worship in the German language with Holy Communion.
1:00 pm Worship
Worship includes traditional carols with Holy Communion.
3:00 pm Family and Children’s Service
A Christmas message with lessons and carols for children with Holy Communion.
*6:00 pm Jazz Service
Worship begins with the prelude featuring the Redeemer Jazz Trio with Holy Communion.
*8:00 and *11:00 pm Christmas Services
The celebration begins with a musical prelude of instrumental and choir music. Services include traditional carols with Holy Communion.
*Prelude begins 30 minutes prior to service.
Sunday, December 29: One service at 10 am
Today at 12:15pm Redeemer parishioners and German Church members are invited to gather in the chapel for 45 minutes. Pastor Dorothea will engage Bonhoeffer's life, theology and ethics based on the film "Bonhoeffer" shown in AMC and Regal theatres.
Thank You for Your Support – Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
As we reflect on this past year, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your support of Midtown Assistance Center. For the 2024 fiscal year, Redeemer contributed 35 hours of service through volunteerism! Your generous donations, time, and prayers have made a significant impact on the lives of those in need this year. We are truly grateful for your partnership in our mission to prevent homelessness and hunger. May this Christmas season bring you peace, joy, and hope, and may the New Year bless you with continued love and fulfillment. Thank you for being a beacon of light and compassion in our community.
With heartfelt thanks, The MAC Team
Wellspring Living Angel Tree! Thank you!
To date we have collected over $900 in gift cards for the girls of Wellspring Living – children (ages 12 – 17) who have been trafficked and who are on a path of restoration. These cards will be used for the girls’ school and craft supplies, meals, clothing, special outings, or for stocking the boutique where the girls can “shop” for special items as rewards for scholastic achievement. Questions? Contact Charissa Schultz or Amy Carpenter via Realm.
Calendar for December 22 – December 28, 2024
Visit https://www.redeemer.org/blog/this-week/ for Zoom Links Sunday, December 22, 2024
Event Time Location
Worship 9:00 AM (Jazz) 11:00 AM Organ & Choir In-person/ On-Line
Monday, December 23
Tuesday, December 24
Christmas Eve See Schedule Sanctuary
Wednesday, December 25
Christmas Day-Office Closed -
Thursday, December 26 Office closed
Friday, December 27 Office closed
Saturday, December 28
THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER
731 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308 www.redeemer.org | 404.874.8664 | Emergency Line: 404.874.9759
The Rev. Mark H. Larson Senior Pastor, ext. 201
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan Trapp Pastor for Faith Formation, ext. 233
STAFF
Seth Brown................................................................... Facilities and Media Director, ext. 218
Brandon Davis ................................................... Director of Operations and Finance, ext. 232
Robin Durdin ............................................................ Office Administration Director, ext. 204
David Hansen ........................................................................... Adult Choral Director, ext. 236
Sarah Hawbecker ...........................................Organist & Children’s Music Director, ext. 206
Deacon Mary Houck .....................................Children & Family Ministries Director, ext. 227
Nate Humpherys ................................................................................. Youth Director, ext. 230
Larry Lowe........................................................................................................Security Officer
Stacey Williams .............................................................................................. Head of Security