Sunday, December 31 – First Sunday of Christmas

An icon of Jesus and his mother. (Written by Kelly Latimore)

You can join the service, live or later, via YouTube. The stream begins at about 9:45 am, and the service begins at 10 am. You will also be able to watch or re-watch the stream on YouTube at any later time.

The order of service is available here. You might like to have it handy while joining the stream, as it includes the readings, all of the responses, and the words to the hymns–it makes it easier to join more fully into participating via the live-stream. It also includes particular prayers you might like to use while those physically present are receiving the Eucharist.

Today is the First Sunday of Christmas. Sundays and Seasons offers this reflection on the what we hear proclaimed as we worship together:
The psalmist calls on the natural world, celestial bodies, fire and earth, creatures, and all humanity, to praise God. The voices of Simeon and 84-year-old Anna join the chorus today, recognizing what God is doing in Jesus. Simeon’s song is often sung after communion, for we have seen God’s salvation in the assembled community and have held Jesus in our hands in the bread. Then, like the prophet Anna, we tell of Jesus to all who look for the healing of the world.


Our cover image today is an icon written by Kelly Latimore, entitled “Mary: Keep Watch.” The artist has granted permission for the non-commercial use of this image with attribution.