This Sunday in Church: Advent IV

Don’t forget, Christmas Lessons and Carols, this afternoon at 4pm.

In the glow of candlelight, music by Busto, Pinkham, Praetorius and more.

Reception to follow.

 

Old Testament Scriptures

Isaiah 7: 10 – 16 –   In which the prophet Isaiah gives the word of the Lord to Ahaz, that the Lord will provide to Ahaz (and by royal extension, all his people) a sign of God’s presence among them.  The sign would be a baby, and his name shall be called “Immanuel.”

Psalm 80: 1 – 7, 16 – 18 –  In which the psalmist laments the plight of Israel as being punished by God and begs God to restore Israel to their former position in His grace.

New Testament Scriptures

Romans 1: 1 – 7 –  In which Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ to the people of Rome, who before Paul’s writing to them had no Christian presence.

Matthew 1: 18 – 25 –  In which the evangelist tells his version of Jesus’ birth narrative, which includes quoting the prophet Isaiah saying the sign shall be a baby named “Immanuel.”  Matthew helpfully defines the Hebrew word for us and tells us that the name “Immanuel” means “God with us.”

Special Music

“From Heaven Above I Come to Thee” and “All Glory be to God on High” by: Johann Pachelbel.

Lou Carol’s Organ Notes –  Today’s prelude is a sparkling setting of the 16th century hymn #80, with text by Martin Luther.  The music features a dialogue between the two treble parts with the chorale intoned in the pedals.  A repetitive tremolo technique recalls the song of a nightingale  at the manger scene.

Offertory Anthem –  “Resonet in Laudibus”  by: Richard Purvis

Fr. Ryan+