Here’s what’s happening this week in worship. As a reminder, our services are currently being held virtually. Click here for a live feed of worship services at their scheduled times. Please note, there will be an error message if there is no live broadcast.
Blue Christmas Service | Saturday, 6 pm
The ELPC Deacons invite you to set aside the decorations and other holiday trappings, to join us for a special Taizé service to acknowledge the pain and struggle that can come alongside the season’s joy. This year’s Blue Christmas service will include candlelight, chants, thoughtful readings, and meditative silence—a time to look past the darkness of winter and toward the promise of Christmas.
A recording of the service will be available the week of December 20.
Journey Worship | Sunday, 8:45 am
An interactive, energetic service for those seeking a fresh encounter with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Pastor Patrice will preach from Luke 1:39–45, on the theme, Advent-ageous.
Join us on YouTube or Zoom on your computer, mobile device, or tablet. If you’d like to join by telephone, call 929.205.6099 and enter Meeting ID 188 135 194 when prompted (press # if asked for a personal ID).
Sanctuary Worship | Sunday, 11 am
Our largest service, with music from the Chancel Choir and an organ prelude prior to the service. Pastor Randy will preach from Hebrews 8:8b–12 and deliver his sermon, titled “Advent Love: What We Know to be True.”
Download this week’s bulletin to follow along and read about upcoming events. Join us in person or watch our livestream on YouTube or Facebook. If you’d like to join by telephone, call 929.205.6099 and enter Meeting ID 188 135 194 when prompted (press # if asked for a personal ID).
Taizé Prayer Service | Wednesday, 7 pm
Pastor BJ will lead our service in the Chapel. As we prepare for the final days of Advent and the anticipation of Christmas, we will have a special Taizé service that combines scripture readings, singing of the “O Antiphons,” and silence to welcome the Christ Child.
An antiphon is a prayer said or sung during worship, especially in connection with the Psalms and Canticles. The “O Antiphons” are so named because each prayer begins with “O.”
While the author of the seven “O Antiphons” is anonymous, we know that they were being used by Christians by the ninth century. Traditionally, the seven “O Antiphons” are said or sung on each day from December 17–23. They are a magnificent theology that uses rich biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming of Christ. Their repeated use of the imperative “Come!” embodies the longing of all for the Divine Messiah.
Please join us for this special service!
Christmas Eve Friends & Family Service | Friday, 5 pm
Celebrate the birth of Jesus at our early Christmas Eve service. This family friendly service will feature an intergenerational celebration of Christ’s birth—featuring many of the families in our congregation, carols, Communion, and a candle-lit version of Silent Night. Pastor Heather will preach and deliver a homily, titled “It’s the Little Things.”
The good news of Christ’s birth is a highlight of the church year. Join us in-person or on our YouTube or Facebook pages.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service | Friday, 10 pm
Celebrate the birth of Jesus at our traditional Candlelight Christmas Eve service. Special prelude music will begin at 9:30 pm, and will include The Brass Roots, soloists, and the Adult Choir—along with special readings and lighting of candles while we sing Silent Night. We also will celebrate the sacrament of Communion.
The good news of Christ’s birth is a highlight of the church year. Join us in-person or on our YouTube or Facebook pages as we re-tell the wonderfully familiar story, sing much beloved Christmas carols, and rejoice in our Savior’s birth anew this year!