LEADER’S GUIDE

A CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS SERVICE

by Beth Nolte and Lisa Reckzin

ContentsCopyright Notice and Information........................................................................ 2General Service Notes............................................................................................ 3Banner Design ........................................................................................................ 6Service Copy Master............................................................................................... 7

Song Accompaniments“Now Sing We, Now Rejoice” ................................................................................ 13“Your Little Ones, Dear Lord, Are We” ............................................................. 14“Sing Glory, Glory!” (Theme song) .................................................................... 15“Away in a Manger” (Traditional melody)............................................................ 17“From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” ............................................................ 18“Angels We Have Heard on High”........................................................................ 19“Silent Night! Holy Night” ................................................................................... 20

Sample by Beth Nolte and Lisa Reckzin

Sample by Beth Nolte and Lisa Reckzin

Contents

Sample Contents

Copyright Notice and Information........................................................................ 2

Sample Copyright Notice and Information........................................................................ 2General Service Notes............................................................................................ 3

Sample General Service Notes............................................................................................ 3Banner Design ........................................................................................................ 6

Sample Banner Design ........................................................................................................ 6Service Copy Master............................................................................................... 7

Sample Service Copy Master............................................................................................... 7

Song AccompanimentsSample Song Accompaniments

“Now Sing We, Now Rejoice”Sample

“Now Sing We, Now Rejoice”“Your Little Ones, Dear Lord, Are We”Sample

“Your Little Ones, Dear Lord, Are We”

CopyHRISTMASCopyHRISTMAS SCopy

SERVICECopyERVICE

by Beth Nolte and Lisa ReckzinCopyby Beth Nolte and Lisa ReckzinCopy

Copy

For Review Purposes Only

COPYRIGHT NOTICE AND INFORMATION

Please Read!

The copyright to the service We Sing of His Glory is held by Northwestern Publishing House.© 2011 Northwestern Publishing House, Milwaukee, WI. All rights reserved.

Purchase of this kit gives the user permission to adapt and copy this material for use withone or more groups within a single congregation or organization. (Dual parishes maypurchase one copy for use in both.) Permission to adapt and copy is not transferable toanother congregation or organization.

Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. Allrights reserved worldwide.

Hymnal references marked CW are to Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal © 1993Northwestern Publishing House. References marked CWS are to Christian Worship:Supplement © 2008 Northwestern Publishing House.

Text for the theme song, “Sing Glory, Glory!” is from Sing Glory, Glory! Jesus Is Born! by GailPawlitz © 2007 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO. All rights reserved. Used bypermission. www.cph.org.

Musical settings in this kit may be duplicated for preparations and performances of thisChristmas service, unless otherwise indicated.

Northwestern Publishing House1250 N. 113th St., Milwaukee, WI 53226-3284

www.nph.net© 2011 Northwestern Publishing House

All rights reservedPublished 2011

Printed in the United States of AmericaISBN 978-0-8100-2379-6

Sample Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal

Sample Christian Worship: A Lutheran HymnalNorthwestern Publishing House. References marked CWS are to

Sample Northwestern Publishing House. References marked CWS are to © 2008 Northwestern Publishing House.

Sample © 2008 Northwestern Publishing House.

Text for the theme song, “Sing Glory, Glory!” is from

Sample Text for the theme song, “Sing Glory, Glory!” is from Pawlitz © 2007 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO. All rights reserved. Used by

Sample Pawlitz © 2007 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO. All rights reserved. Used bypermission. www.cph.org.

Sample permission. www.cph.org.

Musical settings in this kit may be duplicated for preparations and performances of this

Sample Musical settings in this kit may be duplicated for preparations and performances of thisChristmas service, unless otherwise indicated.Sample Christmas service, unless otherwise indicated.

Copy© 2011 Northwestern Publishing House, Milwaukee, WI. All rights reserved.

Copy© 2011 Northwestern Publishing House, Milwaukee, WI. All rights reserved.

Purchase of this kit gives the user permission to adapt and copy this material for use with

CopyPurchase of this kit gives the user permission to adapt and copy this material for use withone or more groups within a single congregation or organization. (Dual parishes may

Copyone or more groups within a single congregation or organization. (Dual parishes mayPermission to adapt and copy is not transferable to

CopyPermission to adapt and copy is not transferable to

Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.

CopyScripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. AllCopyCopyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All

Christian Worship: A Lutheran HymnalCopyChristian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal

For Review Purposes Only

A CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS SERVICE

This kit contains the following items:

1. Leader’s Guide: includes the copy master of the service, notes on its use, a design for aservice banner, and song accompaniments

2. CD: includes vocal and accompaniment tracks, text and graphic files of the service, PDFof Leader’s Guide and bulletin cover, and MIDI files of the song accompaniments

3. Sample bulletin cover

General Service Notes1. We Sing of His Glory is a children’s service that proclaims the Christmas message of the

birth of the Savior. The writers sought to provide a simple presentation of Christmas forchildren and families new in the faith. For cross-cultural ministries, consider reading theaccount of Luke chapter 2 from a translation of the Bible for the outreach ministry in yoursituation, for example, a Spanish version of the Bible. Web-based Bible sources often offervarious translations. BibleGateway.com is one of them.

2. This service can be easily adapted for use with both large and small groups of children.Adult choirs and speakers may also be used as desired. Recitations can be used with anarrator and group of children or with the pastor and congregation.

3. The words for the theme song, “Sing Glory, Glory!” are taken from the children’s bookSing Glory, Glory! Jesus Is Born! by Gail Pawlitz, published by Concordia Publishing House.Note that permission to use and reprint this song text has been granted for this Christmasservice only. Any other use requires permission from Concordia Publishing House. Thesong is sung to the tune of “Jesus Loves Me, This I Know,” which has two possibleaccompaniments included in this kit. Various groups can sing the verses of the song, andall the students can join in on the refrain.

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Sample is a children’s service that proclaims the Christmas message of the

Sample is a children’s service that proclaims the Christmas message of the

birth of the Savior. The writers sought to provide a simple presentation of Christmas for

Sample birth of the Savior. The writers sought to provide a simple presentation of Christmas forchildren and families new in the faith. For cross-cultural ministries, consider reading the

Sample children and families new in the faith. For cross-cultural ministries, consider reading theaccount of Luke chapter 2 from a translation of the Bible for the outreach ministry in your

Sample account of Luke chapter 2 from a translation of the Bible for the outreach ministry in yoursituation, for example, a Spanish version of the Bible. Web-based Bible sources often offer

Sample situation, for example, a Spanish version of the Bible. Web-based Bible sources often offervarious translations. BibleGateway.com is one of them.

Sample various translations. BibleGateway.com is one of them.

2. This service can be easily adapted for use with both large and small groups of children.

Sample 2. This service can be easily adapted for use with both large and small groups of children.

Adult choirs and speakers may also be used as desired. Recitations can be used with aSample Adult choirs and speakers may also be used as desired. Recitations can be used with anarrator and group of children or with the pastor and congregation.Sample narrator and group of children or with the pastor and congregation.

3. The words for the theme song, “Sing Glory, Glory!” are taken from the children’s bookSample

3. The words for the theme song, “Sing Glory, Glory!” are taken from the children’s bookSing Glory, Glory! Jesus Is Born!Sample

Sing Glory, Glory! Jesus Is Born!

CopyLeader’s Guide: includes the copy master of the service, notes on its use, a design for a

CopyLeader’s Guide: includes the copy master of the service, notes on its use, a design for a

includes vocal and accompaniment tracks, text and graphic files of the service, PDF

Copyincludes vocal and accompaniment tracks, text and graphic files of the service, PDF

of Leader’s Guide and bulletin cover, and MIDI files of the song accompaniments

Copyof Leader’s Guide and bulletin cover, and MIDI files of the song accompaniments

For Review Purposes Only

Microsoft Windows Explorer is a registered trademark of the Microsoft corporation in the United States and/or othercountries. HymnSoft is a registered trademark of Northwestern Publishing House, Milwaukee, WI.

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4. Note that some of the elements of the service, for example, the optional opening using the“Service of Light,” can be omitted. These include the directions in italics. The optionalsermon or introduction to the service can be a complete sermon on the Christmas messageor a devotion on the theme of the service. It should include the concept that we respond tothe gospel message by singing of Jesus’ glory.

5. Open the README file on the CD to get information on using the text and MIDI filesfor the service. If the CD directory shows only the audio tracks, use Windows Explorer®

to open the text and MIDI files.

6. You may duplicate the PDF of the entire service or adapt the text file found on the CD.Using the text file allows you to make changes that meet your local needs.

7. The service and hymn text (RTF) files on the CD may be used to prepare a service folderfor the congregation. In addition, graphic files of the melody and text only of the songsand hymns has been included for use in service folders.

8. Practice all speaking parts for clarity, volume, and expression. Encourage students toproject their voices to the back of the church. Determine where pauses should be made inthe text and which words should be stressed. Then teach recitation groups to recite in anexpressive style, with appropriate rhythm and inflection.

9. Assign hymns and songs to groups as desired. You may substitute other hymnsor Christmas songs, but the texts should reflect the content for that point in theservice. Consider using appropriate choir settings for children or adults on the suggestedhymns.

10. The CD includes vocal and accompaniment tracks of the hymns and songs in the service.It may be used for rehearsal or for accompaniment during the service. (Note: The hymnaccompaniments are not designed to accompany a large congregation.)

Since the music in the recordings is in the public domain or has permission foruse in this service, you may copy the recordings to writable CDs for use bymultiple classrooms for rehearsal purposes only. Any video or audio recordingsof the service that include the theme song will need permission from ConcordiaPublishing House for distribution or sales.

11. You may use the MIDI files on the CD in conjunction with the HymnSoft® PlayerModule. Use them for rehearsal or for accompaniment during the service. See theREADME file on the CD for further information. You may also use them with a MIDI-compatible keyboard that reads standard MIDI files. Consult the keyboard’s manualfor additional information on using the files.

12. Included on the CD is a set of graphics that may be used in presentation software to createa slide show to be used during the service. We would encourage you to use the serviceoutline as a basis for the text of the slide show, inserting the slides as indicated in theservice copy master.

13. The design for the banner used in the service is provided on page 6 of this guide.

14. Coordinated bulletin covers (8.5" x 11" and 8.5" x 14") are available. Order informationfollows.

Sample multiple classrooms for rehearsal purposes only. Any video or audio recordings

Sample multiple classrooms for rehearsal purposes only. Any video or audio recordingsof the service that include the theme song will need permission from Concordia

Sample of the service that include the theme song will need permission from ConcordiaPublishing House for distribution or sales.

Sample Publishing House for distribution or sales.

11. You may use the MIDI files on the CD in conjunction with the HymnSoft

Sample 11. You may use the MIDI files on the CD in conjunction with the HymnSoftModule. Use them for rehearsal or for accompaniment during the service. See the

Sample Module. Use them for rehearsal or for accompaniment during the service. See theREADME file on the CD for further information. You may also use them with a MIDI-

Sample README file on the CD for further information. You may also use them with a MIDI-compatible keyboard that reads standard MIDI files. Consult the keyboard’s manual

Sample compatible keyboard that reads standard MIDI files. Consult the keyboard’s manualfor additional information on using the files.

Sample for additional information on using the files.

12. Included on the CD is a set of graphics that may be used in presentation software to create

Sample 12. Included on the CD is a set of graphics that may be used in presentation software to create

a slide show to be used during the service. We would encourage you to use the service

Sample a slide show to be used during the service. We would encourage you to use the serviceoutline as a basis for the text of the slide show, inserting the slides as indicated in theSample outline as a basis for the text of the slide show, inserting the slides as indicated in theservice copy master.Sample service copy master.

13. The design for the banner used in the service is provided on page 6 of this guide.Sample

13. The design for the banner used in the service is provided on page 6 of this guide.

14. Coordinated bulletin covers (8.5" x 11" and 8.5" x 14") are available. Order informationSample

14. Coordinated bulletin covers (8.5" x 11" and 8.5" x 14") are available. Order information

Copyservice. Consider using appropriate choir settings for children or adults on the suggested

Copyservice. Consider using appropriate choir settings for children or adults on the suggested

10. The CD includes vocal and accompaniment tracks of the hymns and songs in the service.

Copy10. The CD includes vocal and accompaniment tracks of the hymns and songs in the service.It may be used for rehearsal or for accompaniment during the service. (Note: The hymn

CopyIt may be used for rehearsal or for accompaniment during the service. (Note: The hymnaccompaniments are not designed to accompany a large congregation.)

Copyaccompaniments are not designed to accompany a large congregation.)

Since the music in the recordings is in the public domain or has permission for

CopySince the music in the recordings is in the public domain or has permission foruse in this service, you may copy the recordings to writable CDs for use byCopyuse in this service, you may copy the recordings to writable CDs for use bymultiple classrooms for rehearsal purposes only. Any video or audio recordingsCopymultiple classrooms for rehearsal purposes only. Any video or audio recordingsof the service that include the theme song will need permission from ConcordiaCopyof the service that include the theme song will need permission from Concordia

For Review Purposes Only

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We Sing of His Glory Christmas Service Bulletins Available in multiples of 50:

KT13N0405, 8.5" x 11" per 100....................$8.50KT13N0406, 8.5" x 14" per 100 ...................$9.75

Prices are subject to change.Available online at www.nph.net.To order call 1-800-662-6022

Milwaukee area 414-475-6600, ext. 5800(8:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. CT weekdays)

Sample Copy

For Review Purposes Only

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For Review Purposes Only

A CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS SERVICE

by Beth Nolte and Lisa ReckzinOptional Opening“Service of Light” (CW pages 54-56)

Suggested directions:1. The church is dimly lit with ancillary candles burning.2. Show a slide of the theme of the service and logo.3. The children enter the church and are quietly seated.4. The service begins with the “Service of Light” liturgy on page 54 of Christian Worship.5. The cross is carried a third of the way into church by an older student, followed by the pastor who is

followed by students with the altar candles.6. Pastor and congregation sing the first response. 7. The procession moves again another third of the way. 8. Pastor and congregation sing the second response. 9. The procession moves to the front of the church for the third response.

10. The cross and candles are carried to the back of the altar and placed into the stands.11. The Advent wreath and altar candles may be lit during the singing of the hymn on page 54.12. The service continues on page 56 with the psalm.

OR

Processional Hymn“Now Sing We, Now Rejoice” CW 34

InvocationL: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.G: Amen.

PrayerL: Almighty God, you made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true light.

Grant that as we have known on earth the wonder of that light, we may also behold himin all his glory in the life to come; through your only Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, wholives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

G: Amen.

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Sample 6. Pastor and congregation sing the first response.

Sample 6. Pastor and congregation sing the first response. 7. The procession moves again another third of the way.

Sample 7. The procession moves again another third of the way. 8. Pastor and congregation sing the second response.

Sample 8. Pastor and congregation sing the second response. 9. The procession moves to the front of the church for the third response.

Sample 9. The procession moves to the front of the church for the third response. 10. The cross and candles are carried to the back of the altar and placed into the stands.

Sample 10. The cross and candles are carried to the back of the altar and placed into the stands.11. The Advent wreath and altar candles may be lit during the singing of the hymn on page 54.

Sample 11. The Advent wreath and altar candles may be lit during the singing of the hymn on page 54.12. The service continues on page 56 with the psalm.

Sample 12. The service continues on page 56 with the psalm.

Processional Hymn

Sample Processional Hymn“Now Sing We, Now Rejoice” CW 34

Sample “Now Sing We, Now Rejoice” CW 34

L: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.Sample L: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Copy4. The service begins with the “Service of Light” liturgy on page 54 of

Copy4. The service begins with the “Service of Light” liturgy on page 54 of Christian Worship.

CopyChristian Worship.

5. The cross is carried a third of the way into church by an older student, followed by the pastor who isCopy5. The cross is carried a third of the way into church by an older student, followed by the pastor who is

For Review Purposes Only

The congregation may sing or read Psalm 96 from Christian Worship, page 102 or from ChristianWorship: Supplement, page 52.

Psalm 96 (may be sung or read responsively)

Refrain

All: Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord a new song (CW).All: A Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord (CWS).

L: Sing to the LORD, praise his name;G: proclaim his salvation day after day.L: Declare his glory among the nations, G: his marvelous deeds among all peoples.L: Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness;G: tremble before him, all the earth.

Refrain

L: Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad;G: let the sea resound, and all that is in it;L: let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them.G: Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy,M: for he comes to judge the world in righteousnessG: and the peoples in his truth.All: Glory be to the Father and to the Son

and to the Holy Spirit,as it was in the beginning,

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

Optional Sermon or Introduction to the Service

Song by Children“Your Little Ones, Dear Lord, Are We” CW 46

Part 1: JESUS IS BORN

Recitation (slide of Jesus in the manger)(Luke 2:1-7)

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entireRoman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor ofSyria.) 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 thetown of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there toregister with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to herfirstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there wasno room for them in the inn.

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Sample “Your Little Ones, Dear Lord, Are We” CW 46

Sample “Your Little Ones, Dear Lord, Are We” CW 46

(slide of Jesus in the manger)

Sample (slide of Jesus in the manger)

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire

Sample In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entireRoman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of

Sample Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor ofSyria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.

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

town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there toregister with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. Sample

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

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to herSample

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her

CopyOptional Sermon or Introduction to the Service CopyOptional Sermon or Introduction to the Service

For Review Purposes Only

Theme Song: “Sing Glory, Glory!” (sung to the tune of “Jesus Loves Me, This I Know”)Text by Gail Pawlitz © 2007 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO. All rights reserved. Used by permission. www.cph.org.

1. In a manger on the hay, Jesus lay on Christmas Day. Born as our Immanuel, He is God with us to dwell.

RefrainSing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory!God’s Son has come to us.

NarrationJacob prophesied that the time would come when the Jews would be governed by a foreignpower and taxed. In Genesis 49:10 he says, “The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor theruler’s staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom [tribute] belongs and theobedience of the nations is his.” When the Jews came under Roman rule, the emperorplanned a taxation based on an empire-wide census.

God used this time to bring Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem, the home of their forefatherDavid, to fulfill what Micah had prophesied: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though youare small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler overIsrael, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2).

Optional Song“Away in a Manger” CW 68

Part 2: HIS BIRTH IS ANNOUNCED TO THE SHEPHERDS

Recitation (slide of shepherds in the field)(Luke 2:8-12)

There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks atnight.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, andthey were terrified.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will befor all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ theLord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in amanger.”

Theme Song2. Shepherds with their flocks that night

Saw an angel’s glory bright. “Do not fear,” he said to them. “A Savior’s born in Bethlehem.”

RefrainSing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! God’s Son has come to us.

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Sample There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at

Sample There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and

Sample An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be

Sample But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will befor all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the

Sample for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ theLord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a

Sample Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a

Theme Song Sample Theme Song2. Shepherds with their flocks that night Sample 2. Shepherds with their flocks that night

Saw an angel’s glory bright. Sample

Saw an angel’s glory bright. “Do not fear,” he said to them. Sample

“Do not fear,” he said to them.

CopyIsrael, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2).

CopyIsrael, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2).

NNOUNCED TO THE

CopyNNOUNCED TO THE S

CopySHEPHERDS

CopyHEPHERDS

There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks atCopyThere were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at

For Review Purposes Only

NarrationThe birth of a child is reason to celebrate. Parents send out birth announcements. Friendsand family eagerly look forward to getting a glimpse of the baby. And so it was with the birthof our Savior. God sent out a glorious birth announcement to shepherds who were guardingtheir sheep out in the countryside near the small town of Bethlehem.

As with others who saw angels, these lowly shepherds were afraid when the angel appearedto them. But the angel assured them that what they were about to hear was good news.These faithful Jewish shepherds were the ones to whom God decided to proudly announcethe birth of his one and only Son. But this message was not only for them. It was for allpeople of all times.

The shepherds were to follow the directions of the angel so that they might have a glimpseof their newborn King. He was to be found in a manger, a feeding trough for animals.Certainly this was an unusual place for a child. But it was part of God’s plan to help theshepherds know that they had found the Messiah. Yet how much more unusual and humblewas this bed for the newborn King of all creation!

Optional Hymn“From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” CW 38:1-5

Part 3: THE ANGELS SING OF JESUS’ GLORY

Recitation (slide of the angels singing)(Luke 2:13,14)

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God andsaying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

Theme Song3. Then a heav’nly host appeared

Praising God for all to hear! With this news the shepherds fled Quickly to the manger bed.

RefrainSing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! God’s Son has come to us.

NarrationWhat a joy it must have been to hear the multitude of angels praising God! It must havebeen truly awesome. Someday believers will join the angels around the throne of God,singing his praises. Let us use our lives of worship here on this earth to practice for ourperfect praise in heaven! To God be all glory!

Optional Hymn“Angels We Have Heard on High” CW 63

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Sample Sing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory!

Sample Sing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! God’s Son has come to us.

Sample God’s Son has come to us.

What a joy it must have been to hear the multitude of angels praising God! It must have

Sample What a joy it must have been to hear the multitude of angels praising God! It must havebeen truly awesome. Someday believers will join the angels around the throne of God,

Sample been truly awesome. Someday believers will join the angels around the throne of God,singing his praises. Let us use our lives of worship here on this earth to practice for ourSample singing his praises. Let us use our lives of worship here on this earth to practice for ourperfect praise in heaven! To God be all glory!Sample perfect praise in heaven! To God be all glory!

“Angels We Have Heard on High” CW 63Sample

“Angels We Have Heard on High” CW 63

CopySuddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and

CopySuddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God andsaying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

Copysaying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

For Review Purposes Only

Part 4: THE SHEPHERDS SEE JESUS

Recitation (slide of the stable)(Luke 2:15-20)

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another,“Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has toldus about.”

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying inthe manger.

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them aboutthis child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard andseen, which were just as they had been told.

Theme Song4. There they saw the holy child

Wrapped in cloths, so meek and mild. Joyfully the shepherds raced To spread this news in ev’ry place.

RefrainSing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! Sing glory, glory! God’s Son has come to us.

NarrationThe Jews had been waiting for the Messiah for thousands of years. So it is not surprising thatthe shepherds excitedly hurried to Bethlehem to search out the child.

After seeing the child, they were so overcome with joy that they told all who would listenthat the Messiah had been born. Everything that the angel had said was true, and they werewitnesses to the fact.

And so these shepherds were given the wonderful task of testifying to the truth that God hadcome to earth as a child born in Bethlehem.

Optional Hymn“Silent Night! Holy Night” CW 60

Narration (slides change during narration)1. Sleep in heavenly peace. What is heavenly peace? Not something we come by naturally.

The Bible tells us in Psalm 51:5: “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time mymother conceived me.” (slide of cross with black background)

2. From our very beginnings, our hearts, dark with sin, made us natural enemies of God.

3. Paul says in Romans 5:8, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we werestill sinners, Christ died for us.” (slide of cross with red background)

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Sample the shepherds excitedly hurried to Bethlehem to search out the child.

Sample the shepherds excitedly hurried to Bethlehem to search out the child.

After seeing the child, they were so overcome with joy that they told all who would listen

Sample After seeing the child, they were so overcome with joy that they told all who would listenthat the Messiah had been born. Everything that the angel had said was true, and they were

Sample that the Messiah had been born. Everything that the angel had said was true, and they were

And so these shepherds were given the wonderful task of testifying to the truth that God had

Sample And so these shepherds were given the wonderful task of testifying to the truth that God hadcome to earth as a child born in Bethlehem.

Sample come to earth as a child born in Bethlehem.

“Silent Night! Holy Night” CW 60

Sample “Silent Night! Holy Night” CW 60

(slides change during narration)Sample (slides change during narration)

1. Sleep in heavenly peace. What is heavenly peace? Not something we come by naturally.Sample 1. Sleep in heavenly peace. What is heavenly peace? Not something we come by naturally.

The Bible tells us in Psalm 51:5: “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time mySample

The Bible tells us in Psalm 51:5: “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time mymother conceived me.” Sample

mother conceived me.” (slide of cross with black background)Sample

(slide of cross with black background)

2. From our very beginnings, our hearts, dark with sin, made us natural enemies of God. Sample

2. From our very beginnings, our hearts, dark with sin, made us natural enemies of God.

CopyThe Jews had been waiting for the Messiah for thousands of years. So it is not surprising thatCopyThe Jews had been waiting for the Messiah for thousands of years. So it is not surprising thatthe shepherds excitedly hurried to Bethlehem to search out the child. Copythe shepherds excitedly hurried to Bethlehem to search out the child.

After seeing the child, they were so overcome with joy that they told all who would listenCopyAfter seeing the child, they were so overcome with joy that they told all who would listenthat the Messiah had been born. Everything that the angel had said was true, and they wereCopythat the Messiah had been born. Everything that the angel had said was true, and they were

For Review Purposes Only

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4. Jesus washed us in his blood, which makes us as white as snow. In John’s first letter,chapter 1 verse 7, we hear, “The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” (slide ofcross with white background)

5. Sin no longer separates us from God. We are at peace with God. Paul tells us in Romans5:1, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with Godthrough our Lord Jesus Christ.” We live knowing our eternal peace awaits us in ourheavenly home. (slide of heaven)

Theme Song5. Jesus is God’s own dear Son

Sent from heav’n for ev’ryone. Lived and died for you and me So from sin we could be free.

RefrainSing alleluia! Sing alleluia! Sing alleluia! The Savior has been born.

Offering

Prayer for PeaceL: Lord God, all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works come from you. Give to

us, your servants, that peace which the world cannot give, that our hearts may be set toobey your commandments. Defend us also from the fear of our enemies that we may livein peace and quietness, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Savior, who lives and reignswith you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

G: Amen.

Lord’s PrayerG: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be

done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, aswe forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver usfrom evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.Amen.

OR

G: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thywill be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; andforgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead usnot into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and thepower and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

BlessingL: The grace of our Lord ( ) Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the

Holy Spirit be with you all.G: Amen.

Closing Hymn“From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” CW 38:13-15

Recessional

Sample G: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be

Sample G: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will bedone on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, as

Sample done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, aswe forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us

Sample we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver usfrom evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

Sample from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

G: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy

Sample G: 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

Sample will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; andforgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us

Sample forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead usnot into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the

Sample not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and thepower and the glory forever and ever. Amen.Sample power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

L: The grace of our Lord ( ) Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of theSample

L: The grace of our Lord ( ) Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of theHoly Spirit be with you all.Sample

Holy Spirit be with you all.

CopyL: Lord God, all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works come from you. Give to

CopyL: Lord God, all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works come from you. Give tous, your servants, that peace which the world cannot give, that our hearts may be set to

Copyus, your servants, that peace which the world cannot give, that our hearts may be set toobey your commandments. Defend us also from the fear of our enemies that we may live

Copyobey your commandments. Defend us also from the fear of our enemies that we may livein peace and quietness, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Savior, who lives and reigns

Copyin peace and quietness, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Savior, who lives and reignswith you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Copywith you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

G: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will beCopyG: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be

done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, asCopydone on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, aswe forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver usCopywe forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver usfrom evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

Copyfrom evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

For Review Purposes Only