Sermon preached for Crescent Springs Presbyterian Church for the First Sunday of Advent.
Continue readingAdvent
A Poem for the Beginning of Advent
Advent is a breath
slight as wind through snow
strong as a choir before the note
fierce as a mother in labor
deep as God’s sigh for the world.
Prayers of the People: Advent Peace
Holy, beloved God,
we come before you seeking strength,
and comfort,
someone to help us bear the load,
or to give us a load worth bearing.
In our praying give us open ears to hear your assurances
and open hearts to feel your peace,
even as we say together:
God of peace,
hear our prayers.
Slowing Down the Season: Advent Candlelighting Liturgies
These liturgies were developed alongside a sermon series, “Christmas Without the Crazy.” They lift up the value of slowing down and focusing on the simple gifts of Christ in a busy season. The pieces of each liturgy may be split among groups as desired. Continue reading
Prayers of the People: Almost Christmas
Holy God, we know you are with us each moment.
Nothing we say in our prayers can surprise you.
Yet we come to you in prayer anyway,
not to keep you informed,
but to wedge open a space in our hearts,
for us to feel your presence,
and know your great love.
Prayers of the People: Stubborn Joy
Holy God,
We come before you this morning,
With hearts that are heavy with worry,
But also stubbornly joyful,
Carrying sparks of your joy
That refuse to be put out.
We dare to pray
Not just for things to be okay,
Not just for things to be a little better,
But for joy,
Pure joy
For your people.
Advent Candlelighting Liturgies (Year A)
These simple liturgies utilize Revised Common Lectionary scriptures from Year A. The parts may be split up in any way that is convenient for the groups lighting the candles. Continue reading
A Confession Cycle for Advent (Year A)
Advent I (Hope)
Prayer of Confession
Holy God,
we live as if you do not see us,
do not see what we do
and fail to do. Continue reading
An Advent Communion Liturgy
John the Baptist stood by a river in the wilderness, crying, “Come! Come and experience God’s grace.”
Christ stands at a table in the upper room, crying, “Come! Come and experience God’s grace.” Continue reading
Carol Holbrook Prickett 