Mothers Union Carol Service

Today was the Mothers Union Carol Service which I was honoured to be asked to lead.  I wasn't entirely sure what was happening until the hour before the service so I covered my bases by having an introduction, dismissal and prayers ready. 

We engaged with the nativity story through readings from Isaiah, Luke, Matthew and John interspersed with all the traditional carols.  In the end I didn't need the prayers as they were led by a fabulous lady with intercessionary skills in abundance.

I thoroughly enjoyed the service, gently leading us through the nativity story and singing my heart out to the carols and enjoying Neil's wonderful sermon on the light of the world; what a fabulous experience.  Thank you Mothers Union for letting me lead you in such a beautiful and poignant service.


INTRODUCTION

Good afternoon, on behalf of the St Nicolas Mothers Union, I welcome you all to this carol service.  At Christmas time we delight again to hear the story of the journey to Bethlehem, the song of the angels, the surprise of the shepherds, and their joy as they found Jesus in the manger.  And so today we have come together as the family of God, in our Father’s presence, to celebrate the truth of Jesus in our lives, to receive the good news of the birth of Christ and to offer to God our thanksgiving in the joyful singing of carols.

COLLECT
Lord our God,
on the first day of creation
you made the light that scatters all darkness.
Let Christ, the light of lights,
hidden from all eternity,
shine at last on your people
and free us from the darkness of sin.
Fill our lives with joy
as we go out to welcome your Son at his coming.
We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord. Amen.

INTERCESSIONS
Christ, born in a stable, give courage to all who are homeless:
Christ, for whom the angels sang, give the song of the kingdom to all who weep:
Christ, worshipped by the shepherds, give peace on earth to all who are oppressed:
Christ, before whom the wise men knelt, give humility and wisdom to all who govern:
Christ, whose radiance filled a lowly manger, give the glory of your resurrection to all who rest in you

Mothers Union Prayer
Loving Lord,
We thank you for your love so freely given to us all.
We pray for families around the world.
Bless the work of the Mothers' Union as we seek to share your love through the encouragement, strengthening and support of marriage and family life.
Empowered by your Spirit, may we be united in prayer and worship, and in love and service reach out as your hands across the world.
In Jesus' name.
Amen

DISMISSAL
May the Father, who has loved the eternal Son from before the foundation of the world, shed that love upon us his children. Amen.
And the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be upon us and remain with us always.  Amen.