Blog Archives

First Sunday of Christmas December 26, 2021

12/26/2021

Readings: 1Samuel 2:18-20, 26 / Psalm 148/ Colossians 3:12-17 / Luke 2:41-52
Introduction: On the first Sunday of Christmas we find the boy Samuel and the boy Jesus, both in the temple, both growing in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and humankind. We too have returned to the house of God “to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God,” who has gifted us with a savior. As the festival continues, “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” It is Christmas, still.
Sermon: Bishop Megan Rohrer

Christmas Eve December 24, 2021

12/24/2021

Scripture: Isaiah 9:2-7 / Luke 2:1-14 [15-20]
Introduction: In winter’s deepest night, we welcome the light of the Christ child. Isaiah declares that the light of the long-promised king will illumine the world and bring endless peace and justice. Paul reminds us that the grace of God through Jesus Christ brings salvation to all people. The angels declare that Jesus’ birth is good and joyful news for everyone, including lowly shepherds. Filled with the light that shines in our lives, we go forth to share the light of Christ with the whole world.adore!
Sermon: Pastor Kathryn Gulbranson

Worship Bulletin

2021-12-24_final_christmas_eve.pdf
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Fourth Sunday of Advent December 19, 2021

12/19/2021

Scripture:  Micah 5:2-5a /Luke 1:46b-55 / Luke 1:39-45
Introduction:  Cradle and cross are inextricably connected on the fourth Sunday of Advent. Between a lovely tribute to the little town of Bethlehem and Mary’s magnificent song of praise, the letter to the Hebrews reminds us in no uncertain terms that Christ’s advent is for “the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” It is the kind of tension in which the church always lives as when in holy communion—with high delight—“we proclaim the Lord’s death.”
Sermon:  Pastor Kathryn Gulbranson - "Christ Comes in Surprising Ways!"

Holden Evening Prayer Wednesday, December 15, 2021

12/15/2021

Scripture: Psalm 126; Isaiah 61:1-3, 10-11
Theme: Wait, Watch, and Wonder

Worship Bulletin

2021-12-15_holden_evening_prayer.pdf
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The Third Sunday of Advent December 12, 2021

12/12/2021

Scripture:  Zephaniah 3:14-20/ Isaiah 12:2-6 / Philippians 4:4-7 / Luke 3:7-18
Introduction:  Christ’s presence in our midst in the wonder of the holy supper is cause for singing. The nearness of the God in prayer, in every circumstance, is cause for rejoicing. The coming of one “more powerful” than John, even with a winnowing fork in hand, is good news—and cause for exultation—for us who are being saved. Great joy is the tone for the third Sunday of Advent.
Sermon:  Pastor Kathryn Gulbranson - "Rejoice!"

Audio Version

Holden Evening Prayer Wednesday, December 8, 2021

12/8/2021

Scripture: Psalm 37:3-8, 16-19, 28-29; 2 Peter 3:8-15a
Theme: Wait, Watch, and Wonder

Worship Bulletin

2021-12-08_holden_evening_prayer.pdf
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Second Sunday of Advent December 5, 2021

12/5/2021

Scripture:  Malachi 3:1-4 / Luke 1:68-79 / Philippians 1:3-11 / Luke 3:1-6
Introduction:  Forerunners and messengers advance the advent of our God. While John the baptizer’s voice in the wilderness may be the principal focus of the day, Malachi’s prophecy could as easily herald the coming Christ as forerunner of the Lord of hosts. Finally all the baptized are called to participate in the sharing of the gospel. In so doing we prepare the way for the coming of Jesus and assist all people in capturing a vision of the “salvation of God.”
Sermon:  Pastor Kathryn Gulbranson - "Prepare the Way of the Lord"