(The service will proceed unannounced)

WELCOME AND NOTICES

1st READING: The Prophecy of the Messiah’s Birth ~ Anneke Howie
(Isaiah 9.2,6,7)

HYMN: Come Thou Long Expected Jesus
Come, thou long-expected Jesus,
born to set thy people free,
from our fears and sins release us,
let us find our rest in thee.

Israel’s strength and consolation,
hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation,
joy of every longing heart.

Born thy people to deliver,
born a child and yet a king,
born to reign in us for ever,
now thy gracious kingdom bring. C/A

ADVENT CANDLE-LIGHTING – June Service
On the first Sunday of Advent we lit the Candle of Hope; a hope expressed by the prophets and continued in the hearts of God’ s people. (The Candle of Hope is relit)

Two weeks ago we lit the Candle of Peace, reminding us of God’s call
to live in loving relationship with the world and with all who share it with us. (The Candle of Peace is relit)

Last Sunday we lit the Candle of Joy, anticipating a New Zealand Christmas – a warm Christmas – as we journey towards Bethlehem,
and remember with joy the birth of the Christ Child.
(The Candle of Joy is relit)

Today we light the Candle of Love
reminding us of the love of God which enveloped the world
in the birth of the Bethlehem Baby,
a love which continues to surround us today.
(The Candle of Love is lit)

OPENING PRAYER

CAROL: O Little Town of Bethlehem (Remain seated)
O little town of Bethlehem,
how still we see you lie!
Above your deep and dreamless sleep
the silent stars go by:
yet, in your dark streets shining
the everlasting light,
the hopes and fears of all the years
are met in you tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary;
and, gathered all above,
while mortals sleep, the angels keep
their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars, together
proclaim the holy birth,
and praises sing to God the King,
and peace to all on earth.

How silently, how silently
the wondrous gift is given!
So God imparts to human hearts
the blessings of his heaven.
No ear may hear his coming;
but in this world of sin,
where meek souls will receive him,
still the dear Christ enters in. C/A

2nd READING: The Birth of Jesus Announced ~ Jeannette Beaumont
(Luke 1:26-35)

STORY-TIME

3rd READING: The Birth of Jesus ~ Barbara Meier (Luke 2: 1-7)

CAROL: Infant Holy, Infant Lowly
Infant holy, infant lowly,
for his bed a cattle stall;
oxen lowing, little knowing,
Christ the babe is Lord of all.
Swift are winging angels singing,
nowells ringing, tidings bringing:
Christ the babe is Lord of all.
Christ the babe is Lord of all.

Flocks were sleeping, shepherds keeping
vigil till the morning new
saw the glory, heard the story,
tidings of a gospel true.
Thus rejoicing, free from sorrow,
praises voicing, greet the morrow:
Christ the babe was born for you.
Christ the babe was born for you! C/A

4th READING: The Shepherds Go to the Manger ~ Rob Meier
(Luke 2: 8-16)

CAROL: Angels, From the Realms of Glory,
Angels, from the realms of glory,
wing your flight o’er all the earth;
heralds of creation’s story,
now proclaim Messiah’s birth:
come and worship
Christ, the new-born king,
come and worship,
worship Christ, the new-born king.

Shepherds, in the fields abiding,
watching over flocks by night,
God with us is now residing;
yonder shines the infant Light… C/A

We Suspect Angels ~ adapted from Cloth for the Cradle (WGWG)

5th READING: Wise Men are Led by the Star ~ David Beaumont
(Matthew 2:1-11)

CAROL: The Stars Danced, the Angels Sang
The stars danced, the angels sang
the night God came to earth.
The whole vault of heaven rang
to celebrate his birth.
We will dance, we will sing,
we will praise our heav’nly King
at his birth!

Mary, his mother smiled
to see her babe new born.
Shepherds came hurrying,
left their flocks forlorn.
We will dance, we will sing …

Wise men who saw his star,
knew their Lord was here,
came with their offerings,
incense, gold and myrrh.
We will dance, we will sing …

We too will give to him
gifts of love and praise.
Dance for him, sing for him,
rejoice in him always.
We will dance, we will sing … © Barbara Gillard (CoC)

6th READING: From John 1

THE OFFERING
Transform with your love, O God, our homes,
our families, and our friendships .
May your love go to work through our gifts ~
May the light of the Christ come at Christmas;
bringing hope to the disadvantaged,
bringing comfort to the broken hearted,
bringing peace to the troubled,
bringing community to the lonely,
so that your cherished ones
may receive a blessing this Christmas,
and in the new year ahead. Amen.

AN ACT OF REMEMBRANCE

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

A BLESSING

CAROL: Joy to the World
Joy to the world! The Lord is come;
let earth receive its king;
let every heart prepare him room,
and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing,
and heaven, and heaven and nature sing.

Joy to the earth! The Saviour reigns;
let us our songs employ;
while fields and streams, rocks, hills and plains
repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy,
repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
and makes the nations prove
the glories of his righteousness
and wonders of his love, and wonders of his love,
and wonders, wonders of his love. C/A

CWS Appeal Week 4: Love. In Sri Lanka, small farmers are finding it much harder to support their families. Where once there was water to share, wells are drying up and streams disappearing. Out of concern for their livelihoods, and in recognition of the hunger that haunts them, MONLAR had mobilised support. They have cultivated a network of groups and farmers to lobby for fairer government policies and stand up against land and water grabs. Together they are putting on the pressure to restore the land to the people while building an economy with an ecology based on love and care for the earth.

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please join us for morning tea following the service.

THE NEW READERS’ ROSTER is available today– please check to see
if there’s one for you.

CHRISTMAS & JANUARY SERVICES:
24 December 7.30 pm Christmas Eve Service
(Beckenham Methodist Service at 11.30 pm)
25 December 9.30 am Combined Christmas Service

10.00 am Combined Services on: 29th Dec, 5th , 12th , & 19th January

Sunday 26 January 9.00 am Morning Worship

“UNOFFICIAL” WALKS Wednesdays 8th & 15th January: Meet at 9.30am in the South Library carpark, Hunter Tce end. Coffee at “Red”. June 332 8874. There are no walks on Dec 25 or Jan 1!

CRAFTY CRAFTERS resumes on Thursday 16th January. Beverley 332 7786.

THE PARISH OFFICE re-opens on Thursday 23rd January 2014.
KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz

STOP PRESS: ST MARTIN’S CHURCH FAMILY BBQ 26th January 12 noon at Sue & Peter’s 106 Southampton St. More details later.

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK & BEYOND: Sun 22nd Lyall; Mon 23rd Graeme; Wed 25th Isobel; Thu 26th Noeline (90); Tues 31st Jack; Thu 2nd Chris W.

WELCOME AND NOTICES; BOARD OF MANAGERS’ REPORT

ADVENT CANDLE – LIGHTING ~ Fern Wakefield
Two weeks ago we began our Advent journey lighting the Candle
of Hope: a hope expressed by the prophets and continued
in the hearts of God’ s people. (The Candle of Hope is relit)

Last Sunday we lit the Candle of Peace, reminding us of God’s call
to live in loving relationship with the world and with all
who share it with us. (The Candle of Peace is relit)

Along with millions around the world today we light the Candle of Joy. In Aotearoa New Zealand we are looking forward to a New Zealand Christmas – a warm Christmas – as we journey towards Bethlehem, and remember with joy the birth of the Christ Child.

(The Candle of Joy is lit)

Carol: Come to this Christmas Singing (Tune: WOV 245)
Come to this Christmas singing!
Come to a birthday, bringing
gifts from our country’s treasure,
beauty of shell and stone:
wisdom the old have taught us,
laughter the young have brought us,
love to surround a manger,
making this Child our own.

Wealth of our land and water,
riches of race and culture –
these be our gold and incense
offered for Christmas Day:
where we make peace, declare it,
where we have much, let’s share it,
aroha warm our hearts,
and aroha be our way.

Here where the sheep are grazing,
where summer sun is blazing
harvests for others ripen –
food for the world can grow:
Christ of a cold December,
quicken us to remember
poverty in a stable
need, like the sting of snow. © Shirley Murray (CoC)

OPENING PRAYER

READINGS: Psalm 98 John Shanks

Matthew 1: 18-23 Irene Gray

CAROL: And Did You See Him Little Star
And did you see Him little star,
long, long ago?
And was it you, I wonder, shone
on manger low?
And did you see the shepherd men,
when angels sang?
“Peace on the earth, good-will to all,”
the message rang.

And did you guide the three wise kings
with shining light?
and bring them to the holy Child
on that great night?
And will you still shine down on earth,
though from afar,
and lead us back to Bethlehem,
O little star? © The estate of Helen Clyde (CoC)

I’m Dreaming of a Hot Christmas

Introduction

Song: I’m Dreaming of a Hot Christmas

I’m dreaming of a hot Christmas
just like the ones we have each year;
with warm sun shining,
informal dining, and joy that holidays are here.
I’m dreaming of a bright Christmas
when days are long and clear and light;
and with green fields always in sight
thronged with youthful cricketers in white!

I’m dreaming of a hot Christmas
with lovely blue skies all the day;
and we meet together,
in balmy weather,
with beaches not too far away.
I’m dreaming of a bright Christmas
with love and friendship in the air;
and may WE be ever aware
of the warmth and fellowship we share.

Christmas in the Philippines: Conversation with Christina

A STORY: Angel in a Gum Tree ~Jill Grierson

An Australian Christmas with Jill

CAROL: The North Wind is Tossing the Leaves
The North Wind is tossing the leaves,
the red dust is over the town,
the sparrows are under the eaves,
and the grass in the paddock is brown;
as we lift up our voices and sing
to the Christ-Child the heavenly King.

The tree-ferns in green gullies sway;
the cool stream flows silently by;
the joy bells are greeting the day,
and the chimes are adrift in the sky,
as we lift up our voices and sing
to the Christ-Child the Heavenly King. © Chappell & Co Ltd (WOV)

Christmas in Brazil ~ Feliz Natal
THE OFFERING:
Gracious God, bless this money offered, food gathered,
gifts given in love.
Bless also the offering of our hearts and lives.
May loving service enable disappointment to be replaced by joy;
anxiety replaced by happiness,
hopelessness replaced by a sense of purpose.

Bless all our gifts, as once more we wait with wonder
to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child. AMEN.

CAROL: ‘Twas in Bethlehem that the Christ had Birth
‘Twas in Bethlehem that the Christ had birth,
that the shepherds learned of God’s gift to earth.
There in rosy dawn angels sang his worth:
and the glory shone all bright around;
heavenly glory shone around.

Full three thousand leagues from the manger bed,
a New Zealand tree decked itself in red.
“Tis to honour him I do this”, it said:
and the glory shone all bright around;
crimson glory shone around.

Called Pohutukawa – its Maori name,
still at every Christmas it does the same,
so that cliff and headland are all aflame:
and the glory shines all bright around;
crimson glory shines around.

Thus New Zealand knows when it’s Christmastide
by the beauty splashed o’er the countryside.
May Pohutukawa long flourish wide,
and the glory shine all bright around;
crimson glory shine around. © H W Hitchcock

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

CAROL: Star-child, Earth-child
Star-Child, earth-Child
go-between of God,
love Child, Christ Child,
heaven’s lightning rod…
This year, this year,
let the day arrive,
when Christmas comes
for everyone,
everyone alive!

Street child, beat child
no place left to go,
hurt child, used child,
no one wants to know…

Grown child, old child,
mem’ry full of years,
sad child, lost child,
story told in tears…

Spared child, spoiled child,
having, wanting more,
wise child, faith child
knowing joy in store…

Hope-for-peace Child,
God’s stupendous sign,
down-to-earth Child,
star of stars that shine…
© Shirley Murray (CoC)

THE BLESSING

CHRISTMAS & BEYOND:
22 December 9.00 am Carol Service (includes an Act of Remembrance and opportunity to light a candle in memory of family members or friends)
24 December 7.30 pm Christmas Eve Service
(Beckenham Methodist Service at 11.30 pm)
25 December 9.30 am Combined Christmas Service

10.00 am Combined Services on: 29th Dec, 5th , 12th , & 19th January

Sunday 26 January 9.00 am Morning Worship

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Lunch is cancelled!

THE NEW READERS’ ROSTER is available today– please check to see if
there’s one for you.

OPEN HOUSE AT THE MANSE: TODAY from 2pm. Please pop in and enjoy a
chat as you are able. All are welcome. Chris.

PLEASE TAKE ONE: There is a basket in the entrance to the Church with
Christmas symbols in it. You are invited to take one away and write a short prayer
or the names of friends and loved ones who have passed away. We ask you to
bring them with you next Sunday and you will be given an opportunity to hang
them on the tree and light a candle in remembrance during the service.

CWS Appeal Week 3: Joy. In Nicaragua, drought has made farmers despair. Once they could rely on weather patterns to know when to plant and what to grow. This year without rain farmers lost crops and animals. Joy came to the new settlement of Malacatoya, when CEPAD brought farmers an irrigation pump and showed them how to use it. Learning new methods to grow food with less water and on organic principles from the CEPAD staff means families can face a happier future.

“UNOFFICIAL” WALK 18th December: Meet at 9.30am in the South Library carpark, Hunter Tce end. Coffee at “Red”. June 332 8874.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS resumes on Thursday 16th January. Beverley 332 7786.

HUB NEWS: This week’s information is displayed in the Lounge. This is the last
Hub Report for 2013.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Please ensure Anna
has any notices for 19th January 2014 by 9am this Wednesday.

The Office will close on Friday 19th December, and re-open on 23rd January 2014.
KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz
FROM CASSIE: The community development focus group has been having some exciting conversations and developments, particularly around creative ways of brightening up the St Martin’s site to be more engaged with the local community. There are many other ideas to develop still though! Coming in to the new year, if
you are at all interested in learning more about community development and contributing to the discussions and process we’ve started on – we’d love to hear from you! We meet fortnightly at the moment.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you are interested or have any questions at: cassie.w@mmsi.org.nz or 022 0797528

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Mon 16th Ron; Wed 18th Anne (90); Fri 20th Sarah Jayne

Hub Activities for the week 15th December & beyond

St James’ Presbyterian Church
Sun 15 Dec 10.00am Action Church – Children’s Christmas Service

St Martin’s Presbyterian Church
NB: all events at Beckenham Methodist, Malcolm Ave, unless otherwise specified.
Sun 15 Dec 10am “I’m Dreaming of a Hot Christmas” combined
(note time) service with Beckenham Methodist
Sun 22 Dec 9am Carol Service (includes an Act of Remembrance
and opportunity to light a candle in memory of
family members or friends)
Tue 24 Dec 7.30pm Christmas Eve Service
Wed 25 Dec 9.30am Combined Christmas Day Service with Beckenham Methodist

On Sundays 29 December, 5, 12 & 19th January there will be a Combined Service at 10am.

On Wednesdays 18 December, 8 & 15 January there are “unofficial” walks.
Meet at South Library Hunter Tce end of carpark at 9.30am.
Coffee at “Red”. All Welcome.

Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church
Mon 16 Dec 9.30am & 10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 35 0265
Tue 17 Dec 10.00am Mainly Music. Eleanor 960 4824
Wed 18 Dec 10.00 am Craft Group. Linda 322 4437
7.00 pm Scottish Country Dancing. David 322 7954
Thur 19 Dec 9.30am & 10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Fri 20 Dec 7.00pm Lift Youth Group. Matt 027 3890000

Cashmere Hills Presbyterian Church
Sun 15 Dec 10.00am Service of Christmas Music with the Choir
6.00pm Carols in the Garden – 1 Macmillan Ave, commencing with a sausage sizzle. In Church if wet.
Mon 16 Dec 2.00pm Foot Clinic
Tues 17 Dec 9.30am Foot Clinic. Phone office for appointments
Tues 24 Dec 11.30pm Midnight Watch/Carols by Candlelight
Wed 25 Dec 9.30am Christmas Day Family Worship

The Elite Cycle Race takes place on the weekend of 11 & 12 January, and refreshments will be available from the Church for spectators. On the Sunday (12th Jan) the Morning Service will commence at 9.00am, lasting approx. half-an-hour.

All other services in January will commence at 10.00am, as usual.

WELCOME AND NOTICES

ADVENT CANDLE-LIGHTING:
A week ago we began our Advent journey by lighting
the Candle of Hope; a hope expressed by the prophets
and continued in the hearts of God’ s people.
We light the Candle of Hope again this morning
as we too wait in hope.

Today we also light the Candle of Peace,
as our world longs for justice and peace.

God, you call us to live in loving relationship
with the world and all who share it with us.
We pray for peace and happiness for all people
wherever they may be.

THE CANDLE OF PEACE IS LIT

OPENING PRAYER

CAROL: Once in Royal David’s City
Once in royal David’s city
stood a lowly cattle shed
where a mother laid her baby
in a manger for his bed:
Mary was that mother mild,
Jesus Christ her little child.

He came down to earth from heaven
who, with God, is over all,
and his shelter was a stable,
and his cradle was a stall;
There among the poor and lowly
lived on earth our Saviour holy. C/A

JESUS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY

CAROL: Away in a Manger
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head;
the stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay,
the little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
but little Lord Jesus no crying he makes,
I love you, Lord Jesus; look down from on high,
and stay by my side until morning is nigh.

Be near me Lord Jesus; I ask you to stay
close by me for ever, and love me I pray.
Bless all the dear children in your tender care,
and fit us for heaven, to live with you there.

JESUS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY

CAROL: Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new born King;
peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!
Joyful all ye nations, rise,
join the triumph of the skies;
With th’angelic host proclaim,
Christ is born in Bethlehem.
Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new-born King.

Hail, the heaven born Prince of Peace!
Hail, the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
risen with healing in his wings.
Mild he lays his glory by,
Born that we no more may die;
born to raise us from the earth,
born to give us second birth:
Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new-born King.

JESUS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY

CAROL: O Come all Ye Faithful
O come, all ye faithful,
Joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem;
Come and behold him
Born the King of angels;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord.

Sing choirs of angels,
Sing in exultation,
Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above,
“Glory to God in the highest”:
O come, let us adore him… C/A

THE OFFERING
Gift giving, God, we thank you for all your gifts
And especially for the gift of Jesus.
May these gifts we bring
help make his love known in the world. Amen

PRESENTATIONS

PRAYERS FOR OTHERS

CAROL: Silent Night, Holy Night
Silent night, holy night:
all is calm, all is bright
round yon virgin mother and child:
holy infant so tender and mild,
sleep in heavenly peace,
sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night:
shepherds quake at the sight;
glory streams from heaven afar,
heavenly hosts sing “Alleluia;
Christ the Saviour is born,
Christ the Saviour is born.”

Silent night, holy night:
wondrous star, lend your light;
with the angels let us sing
Alleluia to our King;
Jesus, Lord, at your birth,
Jesus, Lord, at your birth. C/A

THE BLESSING:
May the God of the stable
help us to see the wonder of Christmas:
the wonder of children who can hardly wait,
the wonder of Mary and Joseph who feel
the power of God’s love,
the wonder of the shepherds who hear the Good News,
the wonder of Magi who kneel and offer their gifts,
the wonder of the ages
that God would come in such a simple birth. Amen.

*************************************************************
PLEASE NOTE: Next Sunday’s service is at 10am, followed by a shared lunch.
************************************************************************

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 8th Eleanor; Thu 12th Richard; Fri 13th Deborah.

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please stay for morning tea and the Congregational meeting after the service.

FIRESIDE wishes to thank all parishioners who helped make last week’s stall so successful with their contributions, and also a big thank you to all the purchasers! We raised $860 on the day.

CWS Appeal Week 2: Peace. In Palestine, water is only part of the long and disputed history of a land where peace is but an echo. In the dry summer months when Israel turns off the taps, water is delivered by tankers that navigate the military checkpoints which hinder daily life. Without peace and control over the West Bank’s own water there is only one alternative – water tanks. The Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees is helping families build water tanks and share the possibility of peace.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session TOMORROW 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. Helpers always welcome. Lyndsey 388 1264.

READERS REQUIRED FOR CAROL SERVICE 22nd December 9am. Please sign up today.

OPEN HOUSE AT THE MANSE: Sunday 15th December from 2pm. Please pop in and enjoy a chat as you are able. All are welcome. Chris.

GIFTS FOR WALTHAM COTTAGE: Next Sunday is your last opportunity to bring along gifts. Please DO NOT wrap them. Gifts are required for men, women, teenagers and younger children. Baking is also very welcome. Thank you for your support.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 11th December: Meet at The Store, Tai Tapu at 10.30am (note time). End of Year brunch at 11.30am. June 332 8874.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS Thursdays 10am-12 noon in the Lounge at Beckenham Methodist. New faces welcome ?. $3 per session. This week is the final session for 2013. Craft will resume on Thursday 16th January. Beverley 332 7786.

On Sunday 15th December there will be a basket in the entrance to the Church with Christmas symbols in it. You are invited to take one away and write a short prayer or the names of friends and loved ones who have passed away. We ask you to bring them with you to Church on the 22nd and you will be given an opportunity to hang them on the tree and light a candle in remembrance during the service. Worship Committee.

Christmas Event at Beckenham Primary School, Sandwich Rd on Wednesday 11th December 5.30 – 7.00pm. Carols, a Christmas Play & BBQ. Input from lots of different churches as well as Beckenham & Thorrington Schools. Everyone Welcome.

HUB NEWS: This week’s information is displayed in the Lounge.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Please ensure Anna has any notices by 8am Thursday.
The Office will close on Friday 20th December, and re-open on 23rd January 2014.
KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz

FROM CASSIE: The community development focus group has been having some exciting conversations and developments, particularly around creative ways of brightening up the St Martin’s site to be more engaged with the local community. There are many other ideas to develop still though! Coming in to the new year, if you are at all interested in learning more about community development and contributing to the discussions and process we’ve started on – we’d love to hear from you!
We meet fortnightly at the moment.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you are interested or have any questions at: cassie.w@mmsi.org.nz or 022 0797528

Christmas & Beyond:
22 December 9.00 am Carol Service (includes
an Act of Remembrance and opportunity to light a
candle in memory of family members or friends)
24 December 7.30 pm Christmas Eve Service
(Beckenham Methodist Service at 11.30 pm)
25 December 9.30 am Combined Christmas Service

10.00 am Combined Services on:
29th Dec, 5th , 12th , & 19th January

26 January 9.00 am Morning Worship

Please note the changes in service times during December/January
Services return to normal on the 26th January.

Hub Activities for the week 8th – 15th December

St James’ Presbyterian Church
Sun 8 Dec 10am Celebration service for 50th anniversary of the opening of the new church building. Communion and lunch.
Mon 9 Dec 7pm Craft Group in church lounge
7pm Men’s Muster in hall lounge
Tues 10 Dec Last Little Kidz Music for year
Wed 11 Dec 2pm Midweek Communion at Whareora, Athelston St
Fri 13 Dec 4.30pm Friday Kidz

St Martin’s Presbyterian Church
NB: all events at Beckenham Methodist, Malcolm Ave, unless otherwise specified.
Sun 8 Dec 9am Morning Worship & Children’s Play and congregational meeting
Mon 9 Dec 1-4pm Foot Clinic. Lyndsey 388 1264
Wed 11 Dec 10.30am Walking Group last meeting for year. Note time.
5.30-7.00pm Christmas Event at Beckenham School. All welcome.
Thu 12 Dec 10am-12noon Crafty Crafters’ last session for 2013. Resumes 16th January.
Sun 15 10am (note time) Combined Service with Beckenham Methodist: “I’m Dreaming of a Hot Christmas” followed by a shared lunch.

Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church
Mon 9 Dec 9.30am & 10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Tue 10 Dec 10.00am Mainly Music. Eleanor 960 4824
Wed 11 Dec 10.00 am Craft Group. Linda 322 4437
7.00 pm Scottish Country Dancing. David 322 7954
Thur 12 Dec 9.30am &10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Fri 13 Dec 7.00pm Lift Youth Group. Matt 027 3890000

Cashmere Hills Presbyterian Church
Sun 8 Dec 10.00am Family Christmas Service, followed by BBQ
Mon 9 Dec 9.30am Pre-School Music. Anna 331 6252
Thur 12 Dec 10.30am – 12 noon Prayer Group at 20 Major Aiken Drive
7.30pm Choir Practice
Sun 15 Dec 10.00am Service of Christmas Music with the Choir
6.00pm Carols in the Garden – 1 Macmillan Avenue, commencing with a sausage sizzle. In Church if wet.
Mon 16 Dec 2.00pm Foot Clinic
Tues 17 Dec 9.30am Foot Clinic – phone office for appointments

This morning a Christian World Service Christmas Appeal
power point will run prior to the service.

CALL TO WORSHIP – From the back of the church
Advent begins, but… do angels still sing?
Do shepherds still journey? Do wise men watch stars?
After all this time could there still be songs left unsung ~
strength unspent ~ gifts to give.
Every year, every day the mystery still unfolds anew.
Still in the Word ~ Still in the Church ~ Still in this weary
world God whispers, See what my love can do?
See what my love can do.

HYMN: Look toward Christmas!
Look toward Christmas!
Advent is here:
welcome December, changing the year.
Whistle up, shepherds!
Saddle up, kings!
Chorus up, angels, flexing your wings.
Sing, sing alleluia! Sing, sing alleluia!
Sing, sing out the story,
sing about hope and peace.

Set the world singing,
make the world glad;
now is good reason not to feel sad!
Hear John the Baptist
shout to prepare:
Good News is coming, earth be aware…

Mary and Joseph,
soon is the day:
ready the donkey, start on your way.
You are the chosen,
willing to trust,
joyful your burden, carrying Christ… © Shirley Murray (CoC)
ADVENT CANDLE-LIGHTING
One candle to honour the prophets, who believed in God during dark days, and looked forward with hope to the coming Messiah.
A candle to remind us of John the Baptist, who called people to change their way of living, to prepare for the coming of the Christ.

PRAYER

SUNG RESPONSE: (Tune: Silent Night WOV 236)
Candle light, sacred light, mystery flames, burning bright, we are waiting for Jesus’ new birth. Shine his hope over all of the earth. Thanks for the gift of hope, thanks for the gift of hope.
© 2006 Catherine MacDonald, Gathering

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN

READINGS: Isaiah 2: 1-5
Mark 1: 1-7a

REFLECTION: The Advent of a New World

AN ADVENT CREED
I believe in the promise of Christmas, in the God
at the centre of Christmas, whose hope for the world was proclaimed by the prophets. I believe in Mary, who sang of turning the world upside down who allowed her life to be disrupted by God. I believe in Joseph, whose broken heart broke the rules to do the right thing. I believe in the smell of the stable – for there is no place
God will not go. I believe in the shepherds, those simple ones open to hear
the angels’ song. I believe in the Magi, the ones outside the faith, outside the community, who searched out the Holy.
I believe in Jesus, born in poverty, soon a refugee, raised in a faith, lived seeking justice, died speaking forgiveness, rose with a love that could not be stopped. I open myself to an Advent journey that will change my life;
a journey of joy and of challenge.
Inspired by “I believe in Jesus Christ” by Walter Russell Bowie

THE OFFERING

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER

COMMUNION HYMN: Lord Jesus Christ (WOV 451)
Lord Jesus Christ,
you have come to us,
you are one with us,
Mary’s son;
cleansing our souls from all their sin,
pouring your love and goodness in,
Jesus, our love for you we sing,
living Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ,
now and every day
teach us how to pray,
Son of God.
You have commanded us to do
this, in remembrance, Lord, of you:
into our lives your power breaks through
living Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ,
you have come to us,
born as one of us,
Mary’s son;
led out to die on Calvary,
risen from death to set us free,
living Lord Jesus, help us see
you are Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ,
I would come to you,
live my life for you,
Son of God.
All your commands I know are true,
your many gifts will make me new,
into my life your power breaks through,
living Lord. © Josef Weinberger Ltd, London (WOV)

A PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
Come with thanksgiving and hope …
of those who trust in Jesus Christ.
Gracious God, our hearts rejoice, for you have come to us
as you promised long ago, but not as your people predicted.
We thank you for entering our life completely.
We thank you for coming as a child, reminding us that each human life is precious, that we depend totally on your goodness, that we rely on each other to live and survive,
We thank you for choosing Bethlehem …
the place of travellers and seekers.
We thank you that the Advent and Christmas Seasons
give opportunity to prepare, and to retell the story,
time for worship and song, for giving and receiving,
for hope and renewal…

COMMUNION

PRAYER FOLLOWING COMMUNION

HYMN: Tell Out My Soul
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord!
Unnumbered blessings, give my spirit voice;
tender to me the promise of his word;
in God my Saviour shall my heart rejoice.

Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his Name!
Make known his might, the deeds his arm has done;
His mercy sure, from age to age the same;
His holy Name – the Lord, the Mighty One.

Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his might!
Powers and dominions lay their glory by.
Proud hearts and stubborn wills are put to flight,
The hungry fed, the humble lifted high.

Tell out, my soul, the glories of his word!
Firm is his promise, and his mercy sure.
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord
To children’s children and for evermore! © Hope Publishing (HFTC)

BLESSING

Hub Activities for the week 1st – 8th December

St James’ Presbyterian Church
Sun 1 Dec 7pm Ecumenical Advent Service at St Martins, Lincoln Rd.
Tues 3 Dec 9.30am Little Kidz Music in Hall Lounge
Fri 6 Dec 4.30pm Friday Kidz meet in Kidz Live room
Sun 8 Dec 10am 50th anniversary Celebration Communion & Lunch.

St Martin’s Presbyterian Church
NB: all events at Beckenham Methodist, Malcolm Ave, unless otherwise specified.
Sun 1 Dec 9.00am Advent Communion Service and Christmas Market Stall
Wed 4 Dec 9.30am Walking Group: Malvern Park & Meshino’s. Judith 332 1577
2.00pm Caring & Sharing Christmas Concert at St Anne’s
Thu 5 Dec 10am-12noon Crafty Crafters. $3 per session. New faces always
welcome. Beverley 332 7786
Sun 8 Dec 9.00am Morning Worship and Congregational Meeting

Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church
Mon 2 Dec 9.30am & 10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Tues 3 Dec 10.00am Mainly Music. Eleanor 960 4824
Wed 4 Dec 9.30 am U3A in lounge. Pauline 332 0453
7.00 pm Scottish Country Dancing. David 322 7954
Thurs 5 Dec 9.30am & 10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228 7.00 pm Beading Guild. Gayle 322 6073
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Fri 6 Dec 5.00 pm Messy Church. Contact Office 338 8901 for details.
7.00pm Lift Youth Group. Matt 027 3890000

Cashmere Hills Presbyterian Church
Mon 2 Dec 9.30am Pre-School Music. Anna 331 6252
1.45pm Cashmere Garden Club
Thurs 5 Dec 10.30am – 12 noon Prayer Group at 20 Major Aiken Drive
7.30pm Choir Practice
Sun 8 Dec 10.00am Family Christmas Service, followed by BBQ

WELCOME AND NOTICES
CALL TO WORSHIP
Jesus, the Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.
His birth in Bethlehem did not change him,
but we could see him in human likeness;
his life with his family in Nazareth did not change him,
but we saw him grow in wisdom and understanding.
His ministry on the road did not change him,
but we saw him gathering others, accepting, healing, teaching. His death, resurrection and ascension did not change him,
but we saw the power of God in action
and the eternal Lord revealed.

HYMN: Praise with Joy the World’s Creator (Tune: Praise My Soul)
Praise with joy the world’s Creator,
God of justice, love and peace,
source and end of human knowledge,
God whose grace shall never cease.
Celebrate the Maker’s glory,
power to rescue and release.

Praise the Christ who feeds the hungry,
frees the captive, finds the lost,
heals the sick, upsets religion,
fearless both of fate and cost.
Celebrate Christ’s constant presence –
friend and stranger, guest and host.

Praise the Spirit sent among us,
liberating truth from pride,
forging bonds where race or gender,
age or nation dare divide.
Celebrate the Spirit’s treasure –
foolishness none dare deride.

Praise the Maker, Christ and Spirit,
one God in community,
calling Christians to embody
oneness and diversity.
This the world shall see reflected:
God is One and One in Three. © Iona Community alt. (VU)

OPENING PRAYER & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Gillian Cree & Wayne Barton

A PRACTICE FOR ADVENT (WOV 246)
The North Wind is tossing the leaves,
the red dust is over the town,
the sparrows are under the eaves,
and the grass in the paddock is brown;
as we lift up our voices and sing
to the Christ-Child the heavenly King.

The tree-ferns in green gullies sway;
the cool stream flows silently by;
the joy bells are greeting the day,
and the chimes are adrift in the sky,
as we lift up our voices and sing
to the Christ-Child the Heavenly King. © Chappell & Co Ltd (WOV)

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: Jeremiah 23: 1-6 Joan Scott

Luke 1: 68-79 – responsive
Blessed be the God of Israel,
who has come to the people and set them free,
who has raised up a mighty Saviour for us
born of the house of the servant David,
Through the holy prophets of old,
God promised to save us from our enemies from the hands of all who hate us.
to show the mercy promised to our ancestors,
to remember the holy covenant,
the oath God swore to our ancestors Abraham and Sarah,
to set us free from the hands of our enemies,
free to serve God without fear, holy and righteous in God’s presence, all the days of our life.

And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High;
for you will go before the Lord to prepare the way,
to give the people knowledge of salvation
by the forgiveness of their sins.
In the tender compassion of our God,
the dawn from on high shall break upon us,
to shine on those who sit in darkness, in the shadow of death,
and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Colossians 1: 11-20 Bill Lloyd

A SERMON TIME TOGETHER: Images of God

HYMN: God is Here (Tune: Blaenwern WOV 165ii)
God is here! As we his people
meet to offer praise and prayer,
may we find in fuller measure
what it is in Christ we share:
Here, as in the world around us,
all our varied skills and arts
wait the coming of His Spirit
into open minds and hearts.

Here are symbols to remind us
of our lifelong need of grace;
here are table, font and pulpit,
here the cross has central place.
Here in honesty of preaching,
here in silence, as in speech,
here in newness and renewal
God the Spirit comes to each.

Here our children find a welcome
in the Shepherd’s flock and fold;
here as bread and wine are taken,
Christ sustains us as of old.
Here the servants of the Servant
seek in worship to explore
what it means in daily living
to believe and to adore.

Lord of all, of Church and Kingdom,
in an age of change and doubt,
keep us faithful to the gospel,
help us work your purpose out.
Here, in this day’s dedication,
all we have to give, receive;
we who cannot live without you,
we adore you! We believe. © Hope Publishing (VU)

THE OFFERING
Transform our gifts, O God. May they preach the good news.
May they comfort the distressed. May they stand alongside the bereaved. May they provide water in the desert, and light in the dark places. Transform our gifts, O God, and bless those who bring them to life. Amen.

WE GREET ONE ANOTHER

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: Jesus Shall Reign Jesus shall reign where’er the sun
does its successive journeys run;
his kingdom stretch from shore to shore,
till moons shall wax and wane no more.

People and realms of every tongue
declare his love in sweetest song;
and infant voices shall proclaim
their early blessings on his name.

Blessings abound where Jesus reigns:
the prisoners leap to lose their chains,
the weary find eternal rest,
and all who suffer want are blest.

Let every creature rise and bring
the highest honours to our King;
angels descend with songs again,
and earth repeat the loud Amen. C/A

THE BLESSING

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please stay for morning tea after the service.
FIRESIDE CHRISTMAS MARKET STALL NEXT Sunday 1st December. We will be having our usual Christmas baking, but would be very grateful for any contributions from the congregation eg Christmas decorations, novelties, new gifts that you think may be suitable for Christmas. Judith 332 1577 or Allison 332 0554.
NOTICE OF CONGREGATIONAL MEETING: A congregational meeting will be held following Morning Worship and morning tea on Sunday 8th December to consider the building plan from the architect.
The theme for the service on December 15th is “I’m Dreaming of a Hot Christmas”. Chris is looking for people who have experienced Christmas in the Pacific Islands, Indonesia/Malaysia, Equatorial Africa, or South America, who would be willing to briefly share something of that, in a similar vein to last year (when it was winter Christmases).
WEDNESDAY WALKERS 27th November: Meet 9.30am at Malvern Park. Coffee at Meshino’s. Judith 332 1577.
NEW ZEALAND’S Burial & Cremation law is under review. The Law Commission is holding a public consultation session in Christchurch on Wednesday 27th November in the Transitional Cathedral, 234 Hereford Street, from 9 – 11am. All are welcome. For more information please go to www.lawcom.govt.nz
CRAFTY CRAFTERS Thursdays 10am-12 noon in the Lounge at Beckenham Methodist. New faces welcome ?. $3 per session. Beverley 332 7786.
CARING & SHARING – a special Christmas gathering at St Anne’s Anglican Church (cnr Wilsons/Centaurus Roads) 2pm Wednesday 4th December. Enjoy the music and entertainment from members of the Canterbury Theatre Workshop. Afternoon tea to follow. Do bring along your friends and family for a wonderful pre-Christmas celebration. Irene 332 7306.
VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED to deliver fliers to local letterboxes in our community next week. Please put your name on the list if you can help.
SINGLE ROOM available in Sandown Crescent home. $160 per week covers rent, power, gas hot water, phone and WiFi. Off-street parking available. Very quiet and private back section with gates, near shops and bus stops. House is well insulated with HRV system and heat pump; currently being re-decorated and re-carpeted. Text Peter 022 039 9291 or email reallytalldrummer@yahoo.co.nz to discuss. Room is available from 1 December at the earliest.
HUB NEWS: This week’s information is displayed in the Lounge.
FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 9th December 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. Please book through the Parish Office.
PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Please ensure Anna has any notices by 8am on Thursdays due to internet connection difficulties in the Office. Thank you for your co-operation in this matter.
KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz
Saturday 30th November
Calico Christmas Fare
9am – 12noon
at Cashmere Presbyterian Church
Festive gifts; clever cups; cakes for Christmas & special occasions; jams, chutneys & pickles; scrumptious homemade pies; fudge & more; sausage sizzle; raffles

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 24th Deirdre; Mon 25th Aescleah; Tue 26th Pat; Wed 27th Tony; Thu 28th Martin; Sat 30th Judith.

Hub Activities for the week 24th November – 1st December

St James’ Presbyterian Church
Sun 24 Nov 7pm-8.30pm Choral Festival at CBS Arena.
Tues 26 Nov 9.30am Little Kidz Music in Hall Lounge
7.30pm Parish Council meeting in Hall Lounge
Fri 29 Nov 12noon Community lunch at Whareora
4.30pm Friday Kidz meet in Kidz Live room
Sat 30 Nov 9.30am Working bee at church
7.30pm Canterbury Plainsmen Barbershop Chorus & Friends – A Joyous Christmas Concert at the Transitional Cathedral, Latimer Square. $15-20. Tickets from Alan & Ken

St Martin’s Presbyterian Church
NB: all events at Beckenham Methodist, Malcolm Ave, unless otherwise specified.
Sun 24 Nov 9am Morning Worship
Wed 27 Nov 9.30am Walking Group. Contact June 332 8874
for this week’s destination
Thu 28 Nov 10am-12noon Crafty Crafters. $3 per session. New faces
always welcome. Beverley 332 7786
Sun 1 Dec 9am Advent Sunday Communion

Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church
Mon 25 Nov 9.30am & 10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228
1.30 pm Hoon Hay Halswell Friendship Club. Jean 338 2317
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Tues 26 Nov 10.00am Mainly Music. Eleanor 960 4824
Wed 27 Nov 10.00 am Craft Group. Linda 322 4437
7.00 pm Scottish Country Dancing. David 322 7954
Thu 28 Nov 9.30am & 10.40am Tai Chi for seniors in lounge. Brian 338 6228 7.00 pm Beading Guild. Gayle 322 6073
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Fri 29 Nov 5.00 pm Messy Church. Contact Office 338 8901 for details
7.00pm Lift Youth Group – Matt 027 3890000

Cashmere Hills Presbyterian Church
Sun 24 Nov 11.30am Healing Service with Communion
5.30pm Sunday Night Lights
Mon 25 Nov 9.30am Pre-School Music. Anna 331 6252
Wed 27 Nov 10.00am Forum – discuss last Sunday’s Readings . All Welcome.
Thu 28 Nov 10.30am – 12 noon Prayer Group at 20 Major Aiken Drive
7.30pm Choir Practice

Saturday 30th November
Calico Christmas Fare
9am – 12noon
at Cashmere Presbyterian Church
Festive gifts; clever cups; cakes for Christmas & special occasions;
jams, chutneys & pickles; scrumptious homemade pies; fudge & more; sausage sizzle; raffles