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Maundy Thursday - C

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Children's Activity

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Hands and feet -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Leah Thompson -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2010
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
Feet washing -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOMEMaterials:

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin -- John 13:1-7, 31b-35 -- Ages 8-10 -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin -- John 13:1-7, 31b-35 -- Ages 5-7 -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Fast Food, Past and Present Tense, Future Indicative -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2022
The late science fiction writer Robert A.
Darkness and Light Wrestle Again -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2019
In the blackness, in the bleakness, we need to sense God’s presence.
When the Lord sets the table -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- David Kalas -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2016
It’s a fascinating proposition when one stops to consider it.
A single family -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
When Christians come together to celebrate Maundy Thursday, we are entering into the Hebrew calendar
Long table -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- David Kalas, Schuyler Rhodes -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2010
Perhaps you've been part of a large group going out to eat together.
It's time -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
In each of the scriptures assigned for Maundy Thursday there is a near obsession with
Dutiful servants of all -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-7, 31b-35 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2001
Do we ever really get together anymore? Think about it.
Remembrance -- Exodus 12:1-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1998
The emphasis for today is on meals, which are very prominent throughout the Cycle C lectionary.
In the form of a servant -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10, 11-14), 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1995
The evening service on Maundy Thursday can be one of the most moving of the church year.
Maundy -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Maundy Thursday - C
The word "maundy" means commandment -- "this I command you."
Coming together -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Luke 22:7-20 -- Maundy Thursday - C
There is a church which actually sets a table for the Lord's supper.

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin -- John 13:1-7, 31b-35 -- Ages 8-10 -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin -- John 13:1-7, 31b-35 -- Ages 5-7 -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C

Children's sermon

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Holy Thursday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- John Jamison -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2022
It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave thi
Beautiful Feet -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2019
“So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one anoth
Love Each Other -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2016
The Point: if you care for the simplest needs of others, you are loving with a humb
Strengthened to Serve -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Anna Shirey -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
First Thoughts
Bread of the Spirit -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Leah Thompson -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2010
"For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he com
Hands and feet -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Leah Thompson -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2010
"So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet
A special gift -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus
Feet washing -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash
The ongoing obituary -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C
Today, I brought with me a notice from the newspaper. This is
A good example -- John 13:1-7, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C
I have here an article in the paper about a person who ...
Remembering -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C
I use this (datebook) a lot because I forget things. This is
A new command -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C
Jesus told his disciples about how the greatest of them would
The offering -- Hebrews 10:15-39 -- Maundy Thursday - C
Today we are in the church building and we see various things

Drama

SermonStudio

A Special Night -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Pamela Urfer -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1994
Cast: A FATHER, his DAUGHTER and his SONLength:8 minutes

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Maundy Thursday (2022) -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2022
Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14
Sermon Illustrations for Maundy Thursday (2019) -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2019
Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14
Sermon Illustrations for Maundy Thursday (2016) -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- R. Robert Cueni, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2016
Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14
Sermon Illustrations for Maundy Thursday (2013) -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Mark J. Molldrem, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14
NULL -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
There are days to remember: birthdays, wedding anniversaries, Independence Day, tax day, election da
NULL -- Exodus 12 1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Bob Ove -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
Whenever we see a lamb mentioned in the Old Testament, we think of Jesus, the lamb of God who was in
NULL -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
Students of evolution have observed that sharing common rituals enhances trust and social solidarity
NULL -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Ron Love -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
During the meeting of the Continental Congress, George Washington was the only attendee to wear a mi
NULL -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
It is said that mimicry is the highest form of flattery.
NULL -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Bob Ove -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2013
There is enough in this passage to fill your whole ministry!
Sermon Illustrations for Maundy Thursday (2010) -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2010
Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14
Humans divide time into manageable... -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
Humans divide time into manageable hunks, then we name those days, months, and eras.
A small country church in... -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
A small country church in Wisconsin has a special tradition that they have used at the
One of the most famous... -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
One of the most famous paintings in the world is Leonardo da Vinci's painting of the
Fred Speakman, great preacher of... -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
Fred Speakman, great preacher of another era, tells this story. Wheeler Robinson, great
There's a story of the... -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
There's a story of the original President Bush (not our president today, but his father,
Between April 3, 1860, and... -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
Between April 3, 1860, and November 21, 1861, the Pony Express delivered mail
Currently, Ben is serving with... -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
Currently, Ben is serving with the US Army in war-torn Iraq. The week before being
For I received what I... -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
"For I received what I passed on to you." Thus reads the apostle Paul's familiar Last
When John Kennedy ran for... -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
When John Kennedy ran for president in 1960, he went to West Virginia to campaign
As Christ kneels and washes... -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
As Christ kneels and washes the feet of the disciples of the upper room, he is teaching
A communion hymn by Charles... -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
A communion hymn by Charles Wesley is fitting:
Elton Trueblood used to tell... -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2007
Elton Trueblood used to tell the story that a pastor once preached on the subject of
Jesus exemplifies humble servanthood for... -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2001
Jesus exemplifies humble servanthood for his disciples by washing their feet.
In December 1999, my sister... -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2001
In December 1999, my sister and I were talking about Mom's eightieth birthday.

Prayer

SermonStudio

Symbolic food for a shared future -- Luke 22:7-20 -- Dennis Koch -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Symbolic food for a shared futureGospel Note:

Preaching

SermonStudio

Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Carlos Wilton -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Maundy Thursday -- Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Maundy Thursday, Cycle A and Maundy Thursday,
Maundy/Holy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
The same Old Testament text is used for Maundy Thursday in all three cycles of the lectionary.
Maundy Thursday/Holy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
Seasonal ThemeJesus and his disciples move toward Jerusalem and the cross.
Maundy Thursday / Holy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, Mark 14:12-26 -- George M. Bass -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1991
The Church Year Theological Clue

Free Access

Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Carlos Wilton -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day

Sermon

SermonStudio

Prelude To A Sacrament -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- David Kalas -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
We have a table before us.
Meal Of Death -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
There it is. No one can enter this sanctuary without noticing it.
Holy Ground -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
The Bible -- under $10 if you do a little shopping.
A Blood That Passes Over -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Carlyle Fielding Stewart, III -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
In our lesson the Lord gives precise instructions to Moses and Aaron on the content and preparation
Setting The Example -- John 13:1-15 -- John N. Brittain -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
Many, many years ago -- so long ago that we still showed 16 mm films in church -- we used a series o
The Hands That Hold Hope -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Henry F. Woodruff -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
"Personal" is the operative word.
Portrait Of A Powerful Servant -- John 13:1-15 -- John M. Braaten -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1991
Jesus loved to paint portraits for the soul. He did it through his actions as well as his words.
Fresh Bread And New Wine -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Barbara Brokhoff -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1991
Stories of holy communion events abound.
Giving Away the Store -- Luke 22:7-20, John 13:1-15 -- Carl L. Jech -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1988
A friend of mine once had a job briefly at a car rental agency.
Lift Up Your Hearts! -- Luke 22:7-20 -- Durwood L. Buchheim -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1985
Deep within the heart of the Christian faith there are two simple, yet profound and mysterious acts
Table For Talkers -- Luke 22:7-20, 24-27 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1976
The success of a dinner depends as much on fellowship as on food.

Stories

StoryShare

...remembering Me -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- C. David Mckirachan -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2022
Note: This installment was originally published in 2013.Contents
Love Conquers All -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Keith Wagner -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2019
Contents "Love Conquers All" by Keith Wagner
Houston, We Have No Problem -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2016
Contents "Houston, we have no problem" by Frank Ramirez
The Lamb -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- John E. Sumwalt, Rick McCracken-Bennett, C. David Mckirachan, Fanny Lee Seville, Scott Dalgarno, David E. Leininger -- Maundy Thursday - C
Passion/Palm SundayIsaiah 50:4-9a Philippians 2:5-11

SermonStudio

The Uniquely Christian Commandment -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- David E. Leininger -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
Maundy Thursday is a strange term.
The Fisher King -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this wo
Pure Blood -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
The following is a discussion about blood -- human blood -- and if you can get over the ick factor a
Maundy Thursday Visions -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lisa Lancaster -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
In 1985, I was struggling deeply with a very painful friendship.
Cleansing Feet; Cleansing Soul -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Constance Berg -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
Matthew and Mary Beth were at a trade show.

Free Access

Cleansing Feet; Cleansing Soul -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Constance Berg -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
Matthew and Mary Beth were at a trade show.

Worship

SermonStudio

Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
A Maundy Meal For The Whole Family Goals
Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14Theme: Who's That Knockin'?
Maundy Thursday -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26Theme: PricelessMeditation
Maundy Thursday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 13:1-17, 31b-35Theme: Why Is This Night So Different?
Holy/Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
Theme: The PassoverCall To Worship
Food -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
Call To Worship
Holy Thursday/Maundy Thursday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Wayne H. Keller -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2000
Liturgical Color: PurpleGospel: John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Passover -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- James R. Wilson -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1997
Call To Worship
Maundy Thursday -- Psalm 116:12-19 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1991
What shall I return to the Lordfor all his bounty to me?
THURSDAY IN HOLY WEEK -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Heth H. Corl -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 1976
First Lesson: Jeremiah 31:31-34Theme: The new covenant written on our hearts
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
31 – Sermons
180+ – Illustrations / Stories
34 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
30 – Commentary / Exegesis
2 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 4
36 – Sermons
180+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
19 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
3 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christmas!
27 – Sermons
100+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
33 – Commentary / Exegesis
3 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

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John Jamison
Object: A crèche, or manger scene. Any size and style is fine as long as it includes shepherds. Have the creche set up before you begin.

* * *

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.” (vv. 13-14)

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Mark Ellingsen
Bonnie Bates
Isaiah 62:6-12
Isaiah proclaims, “Look, your savior comes.” We celebrate on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day the coming of our savior into the world – not as one full of power, but as a babe, vulnerable and human, as one born among us. Yes, God has great things in store for this babe, great lessons to teach us and for us to absorb as we watch this babe become a child and then a man. But in this quiet moment, this moment in a stable, born of indigent, immigrant parents, we see our own vulnerability portrayed in the Christ child.
Wayne Brouwer
There is a powerful scene in Herman Melville’s great epic, Moby Dick, where Captain Ahab stands peg-legged on the deck of the Pequod during a violent storm (chapter 119). His obsession with the White Whale has carried the craft and crew to exotic and frightening locales, and now it seems as if divine providence might be unleashing furious anger against this ill-fated quest.

The Immediate Word

Mary Austin
Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
George Reed
Katy Stenta
For December 22, 2024:
Mary Austin
Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
George Reed
Katy Stenta
For December 22, 2024:

SermonStudio

Derl G. Keefer
I read an old legend about a Christmas party that Satan and his pack of demons were having in hell. As the demonic guests were departing, one laughed and grinned and sarcastically said to Satan, “Merry Christmas your majesty!” At that, Satan replied with a growl, “Yes, keep it merry. If they ever get serious about it, we’ll all be in trouble.”

Today the focus is all about the Messiah and we need to be serious about it. It is the birth of the baby Jesus, the Messiah. It is the coming of God…the doctrine of incarnation. It is the intervention of God’s presence among humanity.
Stephen P. McCutchan
... He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with his truth.
-- Psalm 96:13

Gregory L. Tolle
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child.
James Evans
This psalm gives us the proper theme for a Christmas Day celebration: "Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises" (v. 4).

Carlos Wilton
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Christmas Day, Cycle A; see also Easter 7, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)

The lectionary includes two sets of readings for Christmas Day: those appointed for dawn services, and those appointed for services that take place later in the day. Psalm 97 is designated as one of these early-morning readings.

William Powell Tuck
Christmas is usually associated in our memory as a time of great joy. But for many it is also a time for cynicism. There are some people for whom Christmas is difficult. It is a time of struggle, depression, loneliness, and anxiety. There are more suicides during the holiday season than at any other time of the year. A comment by a woman in a nursing home indicates the feeling of some: "No one really cares. No one cares about me now.
Mark Wm. Radecke
Because Jesus was Mary's firstborn, there were four words that she and Joseph did not have to hear as they made the arduous trek from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Four words that make long journeys longer. Four words that strike terror in the hearts of parents of every time and every place. Four words from which even the youngest child seems to be able to craft a sentence: Are we there yet?

I am struck this year by the number of journeys the narratives of Jesus' birth and infancy entail:

* Mary and Joseph's journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem;
Julia Ross Strope
Gathering music
Christmas medley

(Light the Christ candle.)

(Invite adults, children, and youth ahead of time to bring a favorite gift for a one-sentence show and tell.)

Greeting
Leader: Merry Christmas!

People: Merry Christmas!

Leader: Settle your Christmas gifts on the pew beside you and find the space within your minds and hearts to sing, pray, listen, and talk.
James R. Wilson


Call To Worship
Leader: Come, let us celebrate, for Christ our savior has been born!
People: Is our Messiah, the promised one, among us this day?
Leader: Surely I say unto you, Christ the Lord is with us even as we speak.
People: Are even sinners such as we welcome in Christ's kingdom?
Leader: Praise to the Lord God Almighty, for in Christ we are all welcome!
All: Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Collect

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
After baby Jesus grew up to be a man, he got into terrible trouble, and wicked people killed him. But a good man called Joseph of Arimathea laid Jesus's body gently in his own grave, which he'd made ready for when he should die. After that the wicked people searched for Joseph of Arimathea, and so he ran away from Jerusalem carrying with him a special cup like this one, which contained some of Jesus's holy blood.

Special Occasion

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