WELCOME TO WORSHIP!
 No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey,
you are welcome in this United Church of Christ congregation.
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
Large-print bulletins, hearing devices, and cough drops
are available from the ushers.
Nursery and pre-school care is available during worship if you wish.
 God is calling you today, but probably not on your cell phone!
Please remember to put it on vibrate if you are expecting an emergency call.
 ALL are welcome to this time and place of worship.
Know that in this space you are welcome as you are, for who you are.
Together we celebrate all of God’s children – young, old and in-between;
male, female and in-between; gay, lesbian, straight and in-between;
the assured, the doubting, and the in-between;
the optimistic, the cynics, and the in-between;
the foolish, the wise, and the in-between.
The Reverend Dr. Laurinda Hafner, Senior Pastor
The Reverend Megan Smith, Associate Pastor
The Reverend Aaron Lauer, Associate Pastor for Emerging Generations
The Reverend Dr. Richard J. Bailar, Pastor Emeritus
Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ
3010 De Soto Boulevard
Coral Gables, Florida 33134-6317
Phone: 305.448.7421 ~ www.gablesucc.org
CCLI License # 11282912
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December 11, 2016
ORDER OF WORSHIP
Our faith is over 2000 years old
Our thinking is not.
11:00 a.m.
Third Sunday of Advent
We are all meant to be mothers of God
~Meister Eckart, 14th century
*Please stand as you are able.
GATHERING MUSIC
WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Thank you for signing and passing the red hospitality pad found in the pews.
Please use your smart phone to check in on Facebook; let your family and friends know
that you are at Coral Gables Congregational UCC.
Invite your family and friends around the world to worship with us online
each Sunday at www.Gablesucc.org/live.
Be sure to “like” us at www.facebook.com/mycgcc.
You are most welcome to connect your smart device to our free Wi-Fi service.
MUSICAL INTROIT
Perfect Love (Mary’s Song)
Greg Jackson, soloist
Zschech
Hannah’s Song
Based on 1 Samuel 1-10
Dana Viggiano, reader
After the birth of her long hoped for child, Hannah sang:
“I’m bursting with God-news!
I’m walking on air.
I’m laughing at my rivals.
I’m dancing my salvation.
CALL TO WORSHIP
The weapons of the strong are smashed to pieces,
while the weak are infused with fresh strength.
The well-fed are out begging in the streets for crusts,
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while the hungry are getting second helpings.
The barren woman has a houseful of children,
while the mother of many is bereft.
God sets poor people on their feet again;
God rekindles burned-out lives with fresh hope,
Restoring dignity and respect to their lives—
holy light infuses their faces!
GOD will set things right all over the earth,
God will give strength to the faith-filled,
God will set the anointed one on top of the world!
Listen, hear my song of Joy! Come and see what God has done!”
*OPENING HYMN My Heart Is Overflowing (The Song of Hannah)
Soloist sings verse 1;
Choir women sing verse 2
All women sing verse 3;
Congregation sings verses 4 and 5
Continued on following page.
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ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING
Michael, Louise, and Nathan Davidson-Schmich
One:
Joy is the space between your breath and your laughter.
Joy is a hand wrapped around yours.
Joy is your heart beating in sync with someone else’s heart.
Joy is that first day of a new season, and the intoxicating hope it brings.
Joy is dancing in the kitchen and singing in your car.
Joy is the first cry of a newborn baby.
Joy is contagious.
Joy is a song.
Joy is the daughter of gratitude.
Joy is the heart of praise.
Today, we light the candle of joy as a thank you for laughter and for hands
that hold our own. We light the candle of joy for the life we share
together, for songs shared, and for newborns.
And most importantly, we light the candle of joy as a sign of gratitude for
a God who makes water in the desert, heals the sick, offers sight to the
blind, and who knows us by name. If joy is the song of praise, then joy is
where we should stand.
ALL:
In him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines
in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.”
SUNG RESPONSE
We will sing through the response several times.
Continued on following page
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*THE PASSING OF THE PEACE
The Rev. Aaron Lauer
One:
Just as Christ is the light of all people, may we be light to others. Let us
shine with the light of Christ as we offer peace to one another, saying “Peace
be with you.”
Many:
And also with you.
You are invited to share words of peace with those around you.
LITURGICAL DANCE
Ave Maria
Beyoncé
Liza Roles Fotso, dancer; Alex Woods, soloist
All children up through 12th grade wishing to attend Sunday School are
invited to the Fellowship Hall following the dance.
Mary’s Song
Based on Luke 1:46-55
Lesley Salas, reader
God has looked with favor on the lowliness of God’s servant.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is God’s name.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
THE GOSPEL LESSON
One:
Many:
One:
Many:
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One:
Many:
One:
Many:
One:
Many:
One:
Many:
God’s mercy is for those who fear her from generation to generation.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
God has shown strength with her arm; God has scattered the proud in the
thoughts of their hearts.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
God has brought down the powerful from their thrones and lifted up
the lowly.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
God has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
Friends, listen. God is still speaking.
Thanks be to God.
THE GIFT OF MUSIC
Almost There
Smith/Grant
The Chancel Choir
Mary full of innocence, carrying the Holy Prince, you’re almost there.
Mother of the Living Word, trusting in the voice you heard, you’re almost there.
You’re almost where the angels see redemption’s plan unfolding,
All hope is in the Son you’ll bear; you’re almost there.
A lonely road, a willing heart prayer for strength to do your part, you’re almost there.
Trust your Maker to provide Bread of Heaven prophesied; you’re almost there.
You’re almost there, the waiting ends, delivering the Life within,
The answered prayer, Emmanuel; you’re almost there.
You’re almost where the journey ends, where death will die and life begins,
The answered prayer, Emmanuel, you’re almost there.
You’re almost there.
THE MORNING MESSAGE
I Will Sing
Spoken word liturgy
The Rev. Megan Smith
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S. Are
INVITATION TO PRAYER
Praying
Mary Oliver
It doesn’t have to be
the blue iris, it could be
weeds in a vacant lot, or a few
small stones; just
pay attention, then patch
a few words together and don’t try
to make them elaborate, this isn’t
a contest but the doorway
into thanks, and a silence in which
another voice may speak.
~ A time for silent prayer and reflection ~
Aria (Cantata 156)
Kim Everett Ganong, oboe
J.S. Bach
THE RECEIVING OF OUR GIFTS
Invitation
Offertory Music
What Child Is This?
Dr. Ron Morgan, organ; Dr. Greg Taylor, piano
*THE PRESENTATION OF OUR GIFTS (DOXOLOGY)
Please stand as you are able for the Doxology
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise God, all creatures here below.
Praise God above, ye heavenly host, Creator, Christ and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
ALL:
Holy One, your gifts to us are many: music and dance, song and
poetry, hope and joy. We receive them now and know they are meant
to be shared. Accept what we offer this day as a sign of our gratitude
and of our commitment to create a more just, caring and joy filled
world for all. Amen.
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*CLOSING HYMN FOR CHOIR AND CONGREGATION
Canticle of Turing
Krentz
My Soul Cries Out with a Joyful Shout
Katie Martinez, flute; Kim Everett Ganong, oboist; Seth Woods, percussion
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*BENEDICTION
One:
May new life arise deep within us.
Many:
May our very lives magnify God’s promises and love.
May we sing like Mary, our praises to God forevermore!
One:
Go now in Joy, to love and serve the Lord.
ALL:
Amen.
*POSTLUDE
Dr. Greg Taylor, piano
During the postlude, you are invited to come forward to the piano and enjoy the music.
Following the service, please join us in the Fellowship Hall for our annual Silver tea
prepared and provided by the Women’s Fellowship.
Visitors, we would LOVE to have you join us.
We also invite all visitors to the Welcome Table in the Fellowship Hall. Join us for a cup
of coffee, a welcome gift, and the opportunity to hear more about the church.
----------------------------------------------A WARM AND CORDIAL WELCOME TO ALL GUESTS!
If you are visiting us today, we welcome you. We are grateful we have found each other.
And, if somehow, there is something in you, some still small voice seeking a place to live
out your faith, to ask important questions, and to serve beyond yourself, we invite you
into our community. For more information about the church, please contact Pastor Laurie
at 305.448.7421, ext. 116 or [email protected].
IN OUR PRAYERS
We remember all those places of war, violence and unrest, as we continue to pray for
peace for all people around the world. A lighted candle on the altar symbolizes our
prayers for peace and non-violence.
THANKS TO OUR USHERS THIS MORNING:
Coleen Atkins, head usher; Carrie Cleland, Sandy Nojaim and John Graham
STAY IN TOUCH
Once a week or so, Pastor Laurie e-mails a pastoral letter, Laurie’s Lines, to all members
and friends. If you would like to be included, contact Ron Morgan at
[email protected].
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ANGEL TREE
This year we are collecting NEW UNWRAPPED GIFTS for the children, LGBT youth
and women at Lotus House Homeless Shelter located in Overtown. Check out the tree in
the Fellowship Hall.
FOOD FOR THE SOUL
Global Warning
TODAY at 12:30 p.m. in the Chapel
Local environmental expert Captain Dan Kipnis will be presenting his latest analysis of
global warming and its impact on South Florida. Captain Dan is one of the Climate
Project’s top ten presenters, lecturing to over 15,000 people in the past five years. He is
an ardent fisheries conservationist who the National Wildlife Federation tapped to talk to
hunters and anglers about global warming and its effect on the oceans and coastal environments. Kipnis’s presentation is packed with facts about reefs, corals, inshore and
offshore waters and video of sea life at various locations to help us understand how
fragile these ecosystems are. It is well worth your time to stay after church for this one!
Lunch is available.
COMMUNITY ARTS PROGRAM OVERTOWN HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
TODAY at 4:00 p.m.
St. Agnes’ Episcopal Church (1750 NW 3rd Avenue)
Join this annual FREE outreach concert presented by our Community Arts Program
(CAP), with its Creative Strings I, II, and III, Jazz PREP Band, and ALL-STAR Jazz
Ensemble. CAP Conservatory for the Arts faculty and special guests unite for a spirited
holiday program of contemporary, jazz, and pop styles that will have toes tapping, spirits
soaring, and St. Agnes’ pipe organ (and you) singing! It’s a perfect family event that
concludes with a grand seasonal sing-along to usher in the most awesome holiday season
of the year. If you need transportation take the church’s shuttle bus! The bus will leave at
3:00 p.m. from the Havighorst entrance side (west side) of the Church.
GERMAN LANGUAGE WORSHIP
Adventsgottesdienst
TODAY at 4:30 p.m. in the Chapel
Followed by coffee and cake to celebrate Advent.
Please join us.
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CHURCH NIGHT IN
Each Wednesday evening
Dinner is served from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
$6 for adults; $4 for kids 12 and under
Is there anything better than having a delicious meal (no cooking or clean-up required),
sharing it with interesting and fun people, and then enjoying, if you wish, an after-dinner
opportunity to sing, ring, learn, or just hang out over a good cup of coffee? Well this is an
evening for you!
ADVENT EVENING VESPERS
Wednesday, December 14
6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Vespers or “sunset prayers” will be held through the season of Advent as a way to reflect
and prepare for the coming of Christ, the Light of the world. These services, made up of
candlelight, music and prayers, offer the perfect quiet break we need from the stress and
noise of the season. All are welcome. We meet in the Sanctuary. Childcare is available.
SISTERS ON SOJOURN
Saturday, December 17 from 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
All women, regardless of age, are invited to join in this relaxed and easy-going group.
We are just women coming together to hear each other’s stories, provide support and
encouragement, and to occasionally learn something. This month, we will gather at the
home of Pastor Laurie for our annual holiday celebration. Come and enjoy a warm
breakfast and lots of laughter, sharing and fun! If you need childcare please contact
Pastor Megan at [email protected].
NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18
Fourth Sunday in Advent
What could be stranger than God in a manger? As Mandisa sings “God will do and God
will use whatever to tell us I love you.” On this Sunday before Christmas, we light the
candle of Love as we are reminded that God’s love comes to us in ways beyond our
comprehension. Mark your calendars for a Sunday which is guaranteed to put you in the
spirit of Christmas. Join us after worship at 11:00 a.m. on the Church Green for holiday
eggnog and cookies. At 2:00 p.m., we go Christmas caroling to our homebound members
and friends.
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SUNDAY MORNING ADULT EDUCATION
Embracing Spiritual Practices During Advent
Sundays, through December 18; 9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. in Havighorst Lounge
Join Pastor Aaron as we delve into the practices of prayer, Sabbath-keeping, food and
fasting and generosity as we prepare for the coming of Emmanuel.
SPANISH-LANGUAGE SERVICES
Each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel
Led by The Rev. Yoli Izquierdo-Yglesias and Danny Morales
If you are part of a Spanish-speaking family or seeking to worship and sing in Spanish,
come and join us for a service bridging the Latin experience with a progressive theology.
CHRISTMAS CAROLING
Sunday, December 18; Shuttle leaves at 2:00 p.m.
Join us as we bring carols and good cheer to our homebound members and friends. We
will meet at the church at 2:00 p.m. and travel by the church shuttle bus. Following
caroling, we will return to the church for some hot chocolate and Christmas cookies.
THE MIAMI GAY MEN’S CHORUS PRESENTS…
Pop Goes The Season: A Holiday Concert
Sunday, December 18 Show at 8:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Join us for what always is a musical delight…a little campy and a lot of fun… as the
Miami Gay Men’s Chorus under the direction of our own Anthony Cabrera presents its
annual holiday show. Purchase your own tickets at www.miamigaychorus.org or
88.744.8499 or at the door. Join Pastor Laurie for a little wine and cheese beforehand in
her office at 7:30 p.m.
BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE:
For Those Who Find Rejoicing Hard
Monday, December 19 at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel
What is a Blue Christmas Service? For many of us, Christmas is a bittersweet time of
year. It is a time for remembering those persons who have been a part of our lives in the
past, but who are now gone. On Monday evening, December 19, you are invited to a
Blue Christmas Service. This quiet, meditative service makes time for remembering and
for sharing our hurting places with God, while opening our hearts to the hope and peace
of this holy season. All are welcome.
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BACK ON TRACK
Success for the Seasoned Search...The Benefit of Being Overqualified
Tuesday, December 20 at 7:00 p.m. in Havighorst Lounge
Back on Track, a career-support organization offering spiritual, motivational, and
practical techniques and best practices to individuals in various stages of career
challenges and transitions, invites you to a Job Search Seminar. Learn powerful strategies
to overcome your interviewer’s misconceptions about you. The seminar will be led by
Abby Kohut, author of “Absolutely Abby’s 101 Job Search Secrets.” In the past 22 years,
Abby held corporate recruiting positions in a variety of industries and is responsible for
helping 10,000 people get hired. All are welcome!
MILLION WOMEN MARCH
Join us for the Million Woman March in Washington, D.C. the weekend of January 2022, 2017. We will leave late afternoon on Friday, January 20 on a chartered sleeping bus,
driving all night to DC. We will spend Saturday participating in the march and then
traveling back that evening to Miami, arriving home Sunday afternoon. The approximate
cost would be $200 for the transportation. The only other cost would be food. This will
be a great opportunity to gather as mothers, daughters, best friends, colleagues, (and yes,
guys, too) to recognize, celebrate, and call for the rights of all women. If you are
interested, please sign up with Drew Sandbulte at the table in the Fellowship Hall or
[email protected] by December 18 or speak to Pastor Laurie.
FAIR TRADE MARKETPLACE
Products with a Purpose: Located outside the Fellowship Hall
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My soul magnifies the Lord!
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