PEACHTREE ROADUNITED METHODIST CHURCH

3180 peachtree road, ne . atlanta, georgia 30305 . www.prumc.org

s e c o n d s u n d ay o f a d v e n t

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Morning WorshipDecember 6, 2020 . 11:15 am

The Gathering

the greetingWe welcome each of you to this service!

We pray that this time together will be a blessing in your life.

opening voluntary

Es ist ein Ros entsprungen Johannes Brahms(1833-1897)

carillon prelude Sally Westmoreland

the choral introit Nun Komm, der Heiden HeilandSavior of the nations, come; Virgin’s Son here make thy home! Marvel now, O heaven and earth, that the Lord chose such a birth.

† At the sound of the bells, please prepare your hearts and minds for worship.

Praise and Thanksgiving

at the procession,hymn 567 *

Heralds of Christ National Hymn

Laura S. Copenhaver, 1915

prayer of confession *

Let us confess our sins before God and one another.

God of love, you have shown us repeatedly how much you love us. You gave your only son, who died for us. You delivered us from slavery to sin and death, and offered us the freedom of repentance and the gift of salvation. All this proves your love for us. Yet, Lord, we must confess that sometimes we do not acknowledge your love for us, and we do not readily accept what you have offered for the eternal health of our souls and lives. Forgive us we pray. Remind us again of what you have done, so our hearts can awaken once again to your love.

Hear the good news: How great a love the Father has for us. How rich and beyond measure is the love God has shown. Open your hearts and receive that which God has freely given. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.

In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Glory to God! Amen.

**

† The people are seated.

gloria patri * Charles Meineke

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.

the lighting of the advent candle Veni Emmanuel

Choir: O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

Leader: Our lists are long, even in this strange mess where we live these days. And we want to do it right, we want to be safe, but we want to be able to enjoy the season. We’ve got work to do to put right what has gone wrong, to heal what is broken, to mend the relationships, and to prepare for the company that will come.

People: The prophet Isaiah reminded us that there is work to be done. “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” When God comes in, then healing is to be found, but we need to make the way; we need to open the door into our lives.

Leader: So, we light this second candle as a sign of our faith that the God we worship is not far from us and that we can clear the way for that God to come and dwell with us. We light this candle in faith that God loves us and is coming to transform our hearts.

† The Lighting of the Candle

Leader: Fill us with your love, Lord. People (all sing): Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

Proclamation of The Word

sermonThe Gifts of Christmas: Love That Changes Our Hearts

the lord’s prayer

hymn 196 *Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus Hyfrydol

Come, thou long expected Jesus, born to set thy people free; from our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in Thee. Israel’s strength and consolation, hope of all the earth thou art; dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.

the gospel lesson * † The Gospel procession moves to the crossing for the reading. Mark 1:1-8 † before the reading Cantor: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Mark. Choir: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! People: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! † following the reading Minister: The Gospel of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God! † the Alleluia is repeated.

concerns and celebrations of the congregation

sacrament of christian baptism

Response: With God’s help we will so order our lives after the example of Christ, that this child (these children), surrounded by steadfast love, may be established in the faith, and confirmed and strengthened in the way that leads to life eternal.

pastoral prayer

prayer of dedicationhymn Tune: Stuttgart

Child of blessing, child of promise, baptized with the Spirit’s sign; with this water God has sealed you unto love and grace divine.

anthemWhat sweeter music John Rutter

(b. 1945)What sweeter music can we bring than a carol, for to sing the birth of this our heav’nly King? Awake the voice! Awake the string! Dark and dull night, fly hence away, and give the honour to this day that sees December turn’d to May. Why does the chilling winter’s morn smile, like a field beset with corn? Or smell like a meadow newly shorn thus on the sudden? Come and see the cause, why things thus fragrant be: ‘Tis he is born, whose quick’ning birth gives life and luster, public mirth, to heaven and the under earth. We see him come, and know him ours, who, with his sunshine and his show’rs, turns the patient ground to flow’rs. The darling of the world is come, and fit it is, we find a room to welcome him. The nobles part of all the house here, is the heart, which we will give him; and bequeath this holly and this ivy wreath, to do him honour; who’s our King, and Lord of all this reveling. What sweeter music can we bring than a carol, for to sing the birth of this our heav’nly King.

Robert Herrick(1591-1674)

Peachtree Road Staff Singers

prayer

at the offertory,† An offering is collected to support the work of Peachtree RoadUnited Methodist Church sharing God’s love with the world.

at the presentation*hymn 95 Tune: Old Hundredth

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise Him, all creatures here below; praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

Response to The Wordaffirmation of faith * The Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord: who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick 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.

Sending Forthbenediction*

peace* Minister: The peace of the Lord be always with you. People: And also with you.

The Flowers on the Altar are Given to the Glory of God

In Loving Memory of: Frank Smith honoring his December 5th birthday by his daughter, Martha Tate, and granddaughters, Laura Tate Yellig and Anne Tate Pearce.

In Loving Memory of: Kathryn Black of Topsail Beach, North Carolina by Ben Black and family.  

In Loving Memory of: Dr. Spencer S. Brewer, Jr. by his wife, Nancy, and children, Celia and David Sinclair, Spencer and Virginia Brewer, and Lisa B. McAdams.   

In Loving Memory of: Their fathers, George E. Sikes and Scott Sizemore, their grandmother, Katherine M. Edenfield, and their grandparents, Charles and June Falls and their friend, Kim McCarty by Denee, Garrett and Grace Sizemore.

In Celebration of the Wedding of:  Kelley Palmer and Brandon Drew.

Altar Flowers: If you would like to make a donation in honor or in memory of a loved one, please contact Linda Schutte at 770.329.2075.

For information on upcoming worship services please visit www.prumc.org.

Preaching: Rev. Bill Britt, Senior Minister Mark 1:1-8

Liturgists: Rev. Carolyn Stephens, Associate Minister; Rev. Jamie Jenkins, Minister of Visitation

Music: Scott H. Atchison, Director of Music and Organist; Oliver Brett, Associate Organist and Choirmaster; Peachtree Road Staff Singers

Lighting the Advent Candles Today: Andy and Caroline Garrard and Drew

Please Welcome to our Church Community These Children Being Baptized Today: Julian Charles Holt, born April 6, 2020, son of Caroline and Alex Holt; and Lily Nicole Mathis, born September 29, 2019, daughter of Nicole and Kevin Mathis.

response* Tune: HoustonI want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus. God set the stars to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus.

Choir and Congregation

closing voluntaryNun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 661 J.S. Bach

(1685-1750)

* Stand as you are able. ** Ushers will seat all those who are waiting. Please turn off all mobile and electronic devices while in the Sanctuary.

Complete details at www.prumc.org. Join us on Facebook and Instagram.Sign up to receive our weekly Enewsletter at prumc.org.

ANNOUNCEMENTS . DECEMBER 6, 2020

ADVENT SEASONAdvent Sermon Series:The Gifts of ChristmasSundays, 11:15 am, Sanctuary / prumc.org

Today we continue the journey of Advent knowing that God has given us the priceless gifts of hope, love, joy and peace. Each week this season, we will give thanks for a different gift — trusting, knowing, and exclaiming, “It is exactly what I needed!”Today Love that Changes Your HeartDec 13 Joy that Brings LifeDec 20 Peace Even in the Midst of Pain

Advent StudyLight of the World - A Beginner’s Guide to AdventFridays, 8:00 am, ZoomRev. Elizabeth Byrd takes us on a dive deep into the history of the birth of Christ. In this three-part study, we will use author, professor and biblical scholar Amy-Jill Levine’s Light of the World: A Beginner’s Guide to Advent to steer our conversation as we explore the biblical texts surrounding the story of the birth of Jesus. Zoom link available at prumc.org/bible-study.

The Many Moods of Christmas ConcertNEXT Sunday, December 13

5:15 pm Children’s Choir Video (Online only)

5:30 pm Many Moods Concert Online and In Person (with RSVP)

An Advent tradition continues as the PRUMC Staff Singers, youth ensembles, and chamber orchestra present our Christmas classic! This year, our annual event will begin with a special pre-concert video from our children's choirs. Then The Many Moods of Christmas concert will be presented live from our beautiful sanctuary. You can enjoy it either in person (limited seating with reservation) or streamed live at prumc.org. To RSVP for in-person attendance, visit prumc.org today.

CHRISTMAS KINDNESSAll You Need Is Love!Christmas Kindness brings the joy of the season to the working poor and homeless families of Atlanta. The church provides a selection of toys and coats for parents to take home to their children and a little something for themselves, such as cookware or a small appliance.

This year, more than ever, Christmas Kindness needs your support. PRUMC will be serving 680 families and almost 1500 children! Although parents will not be able to shop in person for the gifts, a small group of volunteers will shop for them December 7 - 11.

Please make your gift to Christmas Kindness using the card and envelope in today’s bulletin, or online at prumc.org/give. In doing so, you will continue our tradition of celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. For more information, contact Beth Spencer at beths@prumc.org.

GLOBAL MISSIONSGlobal Missions Gift Cards Now Available Mon-Sat, 10:00 am-4:00 pm, The Dogwood ShopThough there was no Missions Market this year, there are still opportunities to support PRUMC Global Missions. As you do your Christmas shopping, keep in mind that you can purchase our updated PRUMC Global Missions Gift Cards for your friends and loved ones! You can choose to support Belize, the Country of Georgia, Guatemala, or Kenya, and all purchases will benefit our partnerships with those countries.

THE DOGWOOD SHOPThe Holidays Are Here!Monday - Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pmThe Dogwood is filled with great new Christmas items for gift-giving! New Debra Hewitt ornaments, holiday games and decor, candles and cashmere, and so much more. Shop in person Mon-Sat, or online anytime at thedogwoodshop.org. 100% of proceeds benefit PRUMC Missions.

ANNUAL STEWARDSHIPYou Are Making a DifferenceThank you for building community, spreading faith, helping others, nurturing growth, and honoring God! Today, please join us in supporting the ministries of this great church. Your gift strengthens the programs and builds the community of PRUMC. Please prayerfully consider how you will shape our church in 2021. Every promise builds our future and every pledge counts. Make your commitment using the cards in the "Love Your Neighbor" packets or online at prumc.org/give.

MUSICChildren & Youth Choir Performances

Dec 13 All Children's Choirs (Online only) Pre-Many Moods Video, 5:15 pm

Dec 13 Doxology Youth Chorale & Celebration 5th graders Many Moods concert, 5:30 pm

Dec 20 Doxology Youth Chorale 11:15 am Worship

Beethoven Birthday Celebration!Wednesday, December 16, 7:00 pm, Online Only2020 marks the 250th birthday of one of the greatest composers of all time. We will celebrate Beethoven’s birthday with a concert featuring some of Atlanta’s finest chamber musicians performing the composer's most sublime music. Enjoy a beautiful evening of Beethoven with our compliments at prumc.org.

CAREER CONNECTTuesdays in the Boardroom Virtual Meet UpTuesdays, 12:30 - 1:30 pm, ZoomDec 8 Interviewing SkillsDec 15 Negotiating SkillsJoin our community and professional career coach to learn how to navigate and succeed in the changing job landscape. PRUMC clergy will lead a prayer and devotion, and member Ken Christensen will guide post-session discussion. RSVP to Leslie Watkins at lesliew@prumc.org.

THE LONGEST NIGHTA Prayer Service of Comfort and Solace(In Person & Online)Sunday, December 20, 5:30 pm, Moore ChapelChristmas... the time of year that is supposed to bring the most joy and celebration can also be a stark reminder of the pain we bear, for who and what are missing in our lives. Our Longest Night service provides the space of solace, for us to receive again the assurance of God’s promise that we are not alone — God is with us, cares, and will see us through. RSVP at prumc.org for in-person attendance.

CHRISTMAS EVEChristmas Eve Worship Services*Thursday, December 24, prumc.org / SanctuaryWe will be raising candles at all of our services to profess that Christ the Lord is with us; and where there is darkness there is always his light. No matter where we are, near or far, we are gathered in Jesus’ name. Plan on lifting a candle as we worship together and bring new light into the world this Christmas Eve! *Details are subject to change. Please check prumc.org regularly for the most up-to-date information.

Online ServicesWe will celebrate this glorious night by weaving the magnificence of our traditional festival services with a new and meaningful message from Rev. Bill Britt. Online services will be available at prumc.org at the following times:

12:00 pm First Candlelight Service of Christmas4:00 pm Family Candlelight & Pageant6:00 pm Family Candlelight & Pageant8:00 pm Candlelight Lessons & Carols

10:30 pm Candlelight Festival Eucharist

In-Person ServicesWe will celebrate Christmas Eve in person at the times below. Registration will be required and will open at 3:00 pm on Sunday, December 13.

12:00 pm First Candlelight Service of Christmas5:00 pm Candlelight Lessons & Carols*

11:00 pm Candlelight Festival Eucharist

*Childcare for Pre-K and younger is available for the 5:00 pm service.

WEEKLY WORSHIP Traditional Worship (In Person & Online)Sundays, 11:15 am, prumc.orgWorship with us each Sunday with traditional liturgy, favorite hymns and heartfelt prayers. Join us online or in person. If joining us in person, please RSVP at prumc.org.

Midweek Worship (Online)Wednesdays, 12:00 pm, prumc.orgFind inspiration in the middle of your week as PRUMC clergy and music staff offer a lovely midday service including prayers, hymns and a thoughtful message.

Westside @ 5 (Online)Sundays, 5:00 pm, prumc.orgJoin Rev. Daniel Ogle, Ben Fletcher, and Amy Little & Friends for a worship experience that will challenge you to look at your relationship with God and neighbors in a new way.

PRAYEROnline Morning Prayer GroupWeekdays, 7:15 - 7:30 am, ZoomThis open group prays for hope and healing for others and for the world. Take 15 minutes any weekday for this meaningful way to start the day. Visit prumc.org/prayer for details.

Church Open for Personal PrayerMondays, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, SanctuaryYou are invited to come and pray for your needs or the needs of others, or just sit in the silent peace of our sacred space. Please enter through the Rollins Building to check in and observe current protocol.

MEN Men’s Virtual Breakfast with Rennie CurranWednesday, December 9, 7:30 am, ZoomJoin the men of PRUMC for a virtual breakfast and to hear keynote speaker Rennie Curran — author, entrepreneur, former UGA player, and CEO of Game Changer Coaching. Rennie will help us better understand how we can do our part to unite our country in the midst of division. Visit prumc.org or contact Rev. Geoff Beakley at geoffb@prumc.org for more information.

YOUNG ADULTSChristmas Happy Hour and OutreachThursday, December 10, 7:00 pm, Harp Ctr PatioJoin us as we celebrate the season of giving! We will have hot chocolate, s’mores and other snacks to enjoy by the fire pit as we put together holiday treats to deliver to the senior members of the church. Contact Samantha Cole at sami_liz@mac.com with questions.

YOUTHServe at SafeHouse OutreachWednesday, December 9, 5:00 - 7:00 pmServe a meal and hear about the incredible relationships and outreach of SafeHouse. We will serve dinner, get to know members of our community, and host worship outdoors for those attending. Sign up at bit.ly/safehouseoutreach.

Deliver Meals for AgapeWednesday, December 16, 4:45 - 6:30 pmMany families in our community have been impacted by the pandemic in big ways, including food scarcity. Help deliver meals to families who participate in Agape's after-school program. Sign up at bit.ly/agapemeals.

CHILDREN & FAMILIESFamily Movie Night and Sing-Along!Monday, December 21, 5:30 pm The Springs Drive-In Cinema, 5920 Roswell RoadJoin us for a festive holiday outing to sing carols and watch The Polar Express! Doxology Youth Choir will lead us in singing favorite carols together. Then we'll enjoy the visually stunning, and always exciting, Polar Express. $20 per car. Visit prumc.org to register.

COMMUNITY HEALTHCOVID-19 Testing at PRUMC Back LotsSaturdays, December 12 & 19, 10 am - 4 pmTesting by CORE is free and results are available within 2-5 days. To pre-register, text COVID to 678.802.9624. Please check the following website prior to leaving for the test site: CoreResponse.org/covid19-atlanta.