Welcome to Our Gathering of EChurch@Wartburg

Silver star marking the place where Jesus was born according to Christian tradition

Here is our Order of Worship

Advent Prayer link

Loving God, the days are drawing close to the birth of your son.
There is a lot we still need to "do" but help us to simply "be" and to slow down and savor these days.
You know the anticipation we feel. Help us to deepen that sense and to allow it to build in our hearts.
We are grateful for this great gift of your son in our lives
 Continue to offer us the gentle nudge of your grace so we cherish that gratitude in the busy-ness of our days,
and let it move us to be more generous to those around us.
Amen

Advent Prayer for Forgiveness link

Father,
We contemplate the birth of your Son.
He was born of the Virgin Mary
and came to live among us.
May we receive forgiveness and mercy
Through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen

Scripture Reading:  Ezekiel 36:26 (NASB Bible Gateway)

Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.

Philippians 1:6 (NASB Bible Gateway)

For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Advent Prayer for Courage and Strength link

Oh, Jesus, what courage it must have taken Mary and Joseph to make that trip to Bethlehem.
She was so near her time of delivering, and she left her family and traveled with Joseph for the census.
With no place to sleep, they both must have felt some fear.

Yet over and again you offered reassurance:
Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
Joseph, do not be afraid to take Mary into your home.
Do not be afraid, Zechariah.
And to the shepherds, Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy.

The story of your nativity is filled with comfort and courage,
for them and for us.
Give us the strength we need
and help us to see those around us who are in fear and need our support on this day.
Amen

Benediction and Celebration:

Isaiah 9:6 (Bible Gateway-KJV)

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Hallelujah!