St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
243 Barrow Street, Houma, LA 70360
The First Sunday in Advent
The Liturgy of the Word
Processional Hymn: O come, O come Emmanuel Hymn 56 (vs 1-3)
1 O come, O come, Immanuel,
and ransom captive Israel
that mourns in lonely exile here
until the Son of God appear.
Refrain:
Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.
2 O come, O Wisdom from on high,
who ordered all things mightily;
to us the path of knowledge show
and teach us in its ways to go.
Refrain
3 O come, O come, great Lord of might,
who to your tribes on Sinai’s height
in ancient times did give the law
in cloud and majesty and awe.
Refrain
The Opening Acclamation
Celebrant: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and forever. Amen.
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Gloria
Refrain: Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to people of good will.
The Collect of the Day
Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
First Lesson
Jeremiah 33:14-16
The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: “The Lord is our righteousness.”
Reader: The Word of the Lord
People: Thanks be to God
Psalm 25:1-9
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; my God, I put my trust in you; *
let me not be humiliated,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
2 Let none who look to you be put to shame; *
let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes.
3 Show me your ways, O Lord, *
and teach me your paths.
4 Lead me in your truth and teach me, *
for you are the God of my salvation;
in you have I trusted all the day long.
5 Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love, *
for they are from everlasting.
6 Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions; *
remember me according to your love
and for the sake of your goodness, O Lord.
7 Gracious and upright is the Lord; *
therefore he teaches sinners in his way.
8 He guides the humble in doing right *
and teaches his way to the lowly.
9 All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness *
to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.
Cantor sings Alleluia, congregation repeats, cantor sings verse, congregation sings Alleluia
Priest: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (21:25-36)
People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.
Jesus said, “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
“Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Priest: The Gospel of the Lord.
People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.
The Sermon, The Rev. Jim Morrison
The Nicene Creed (all standing)
We believe in one God,
the Father, the Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light,
true God from true God, begotten, not made,
of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation
he came down from heaven:
by the power of the Holy Spirit
he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary,
and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again
in accordance with the Scriptures;
he ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son.
With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified.
He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead,
and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Prayers of the People: Advent 1
God of our beginning and our end, we confess to you that we live in a world that needs your mercy now more than ever.
As we celebrate joyfully in anticipation of your coming son, we recognize that joy does not come as easily to everyone’s lips. So many people are using their lips to cry out for healing in a broken world. Gracious God, be mindful of your mercy. We pray this day especially for children in places of violence, who struggle to find happiness and fulfillment, who hunger for love and compassion.
Gracious God,
be mindful of your mercy.
We pray for women and men who are the victims of domestic violence, who endure pain and physical abuse, who long for peace and healing.
Gracious God,
be mindful of your mercy.
We pray for people who suffer from alcoholism and substance abuse, who seek an escape from that which they cannot solve by themselves, who despair at seeing no way out.
Gracious God,
be mindful of your mercy.
We pray for worshiping communities of all faiths that seek to heal the world, who preach love in the face of hate and welcome the stranger as a friend, who work to better themselves and share their blessings with others.
Gracious God,
be mindful of your mercy.
We pray for those dear to us who struggle with cancer and other illnesses, who desire comfort in the face of constant pain, who wait for healing and peace.
Gracious God,
be mindful of your mercy.
We pray for those who have lost loved ones recently, who grieve the loss of children and parents and other family and friends, who find the holidays a difficult time where joy is hard to find.
Gracious God,
be mindful of your mercy.
We pray for those who we lift up to you in silence or out loud…
(personal petitions may be made here)
Gracious God,
be mindful of your mercy.
We trust that you are a God of righteousness, mercy, and steadfast love.
We hope for the day when you will wipe away every tear and death and pain will be no more. Until that day comes, be mindful of your mercy and forget not your children.
This we pray in you holy and merciful name. Amen.
Submitted by Rev. Stephen M. Fearing, Shelter Island Presbyterian Church, NY
The Peace
Announcements
Birthdays and Anniversaries
The Offertory
Offertory Hymn: Prepare the Way
Prepare the way
Prepare the way
Prepare the way of the Lord
Prepare the way
Prepare the way
Prepare the way of the Lord
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Prepare the way
Prepare the way
Prepare the way
Prepare the way of the Lord
Prepare the way
Prepare the way
Prepare the way of the Lord
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world, Jesus
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world, Jesus
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth, Jesus
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, yeah
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world, Jesus
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world, Jesus
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world, Jesus
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world
You are the light of the world, Jesus
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth, Jesus
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth
You are the king of the earth, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Reception of Gifts
Loving God, may this offering honor the work you have given us to do here in this place. Rooted in Abundance, Generosity, and Gratitude we offer these gifts for your honor and glory. Amen
Eucharistic Prayer A
The people remain standing. The Celebrant faces them and says
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give him thanks and praise.
Then, facing the Holy Table, the Celebrant proceeds
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
Preface for Advent
Because you sent your beloved Son to redeem us from sin and death, and to make us heirs in him of everlasting life; that when he shall come again in power and great triumph to judge the world, we may without shame or fear rejoice to behold his appearing.
Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who for ever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:
Celebrant and People
Sanctus, Hymnal S 129
Celebrant and People sing
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
Then the Celebrant continues
Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all.
He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world.
On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”
After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:
Celebrant and People
Christ has died.
Christ is risen.
Christ will come again.
The Celebrant continues
We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, in this sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. Recalling his death, resurrection, and ascension, we offer you these gifts.
Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom.
All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and for ever. AMEN.
The Great Amen, S 146
And now, as our Savior Christ has taught us, we are bold to say,
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fraction Anthem, S 164
The Breaking of the Bread
At St. Matthew’s we welcome all persons, regardless of denomination, who have been baptized with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to share in the communion at this Altar. Those wishing to receive a blessing only may cross their hands over their heart.
Communion Hymn: Light of the World
The world waits for a miracle
The heart longs for a little bit of hope
Oh come, oh come, Emmanuel
A child prays for peace on Earth
And she’s calling out from a sea of hurt
Oh come, oh come, Emmanuel
And can you hear the angels singing
Glory to the light of the world
Glory, the light of the world is here
The drought breaks with the tears of a mother
A baby’s cry is the sound of love
Come down, come down, Emmanuel
He is the song for the suffering
He is Messiah, the Prince of Peace has come
He has come, Emmanuel
Glory to the light of the world
Glory to the light of the world
Glory to the light of the world
Glory to the light of the world
For all who wait
For all who hunger
For all who’ve prayed
For all who wonder
Behold your King
Behold Messiah
Emmanuel, Emmanuel
Glo-glory to the light of the world
Glory to the light of the world
Glory to the light of the world
Behold your King
Behold Messiah
Emmanuel, Emmanuel
The world waits for the miracle
The heart longs for a little bit of hope
Oh come, oh come Emmanuel
Post Communion Prayer
Almighty and everliving God, we thank you for feeding us with the spiritual food of the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us in these holy mysteries that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. And now, Father, send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Recessional Hymn: Mighty to Save
Everyone needs compassion
Love that’s never failing
Let mercy fall on me
Everyone needs forgiveness
The kindness of a Saviour
The Hope of nations
Saviour
He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save
He is mighty to save
Forever
Author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave
So take me as You find me
All my fears and failures
Fill my life again
I give my life to follow
Everything I believe in
Now I surrender
(Ooh)
Saviour
He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save
He is mighty to save
Forever
Author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave
(Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)
(Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)
Shine your light and let the whole world see
We’re singing
For the glory of the risen King
(Jesus)
Shine your light and let the whole world see
We’re singing
For the glory of the risen King
(Jesus)
(Ooh) Shine your light and let the whole world see
We’re singing (ooh)
For the glory of the risen King
(Jesus)
(Aah) Shine your light and let the whole world see
We’re singing
(Aah) For the glory of the risen King
Saviour
He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save
He is mighty to save
Forever
Author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave
(Ooh) Saviour
He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save
He is mighty to save
Forever
Author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave
The Dismissal
Priest: Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Wednesday Healing Mass – 4:00 pm
Our Healing Mass will be held at 4pm during Standard Time. Please join us for this informal short Eucharist that includes an option for the reception of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
Firm Foundation (Homeless Day Shelter)
Many thanks to all our parishioners and friends that have volunteered to provide a meal. Marvin Burgess is coordinating this effort and will provide details to all who are scheduled to serve.
December 2 – Julia Bourque
December 16 – Mary Hebert
Childcare
Our Church Nursery is open. We will once again open our childcare for children 1 – 3 years old in the 1st floor of Tucker Hall. (the church/school office building), please enter through back door. Children can be registered each Sunday and parents will be texted if needed. Children can be received from 9:45am and will be available for pickup immediately after Sunday Eucharist. Please contact Susan Waldron, for more information susanhoumala@gmail.com
Invitation to Godly Play Children’s Ministry
Children in Pre K – 5th grade are invited to participate in our Godly Play Children’s Ministry. The Children will be called forth with their Sunday School Ministers at the beginning of Sunday Eucharist. They will be led out of the church to their classroom and return before communion. This ministry is designed to help the children encounter the stories of the Bible in an active, inviting and powerful way. We are delighted that this ministry is offered to our children; please pray for its success!
The Lunch Bunch
This Tuesday we invite you to gather for a fun lunch in the Parish Hall at 12 noon. This Tuesday we will serve red beans and rice, salad and green beans. Plates are $7 and all proceeds support our school.
Advent Sacrament of Reconciliation Service
On Tuesday December 10th we will offer the opportunity for our community to gather in unison to ask God forgiveness of our sins. The Season of Advent is a time of preparation for the great Feast of Christmas and even more importantly the Kingdom of God.
In the Book of Common Prayer (pg. 446) it is written, “The ministry of reconciliation, which has been committed by Christ to his Church, is exercised through the care each Christian has for others, through the common prayer of Christians assembled for public worship, and through the priesthood of the Church and its ministers’ declaring absolution. The Reconciliation of a Penitent is available for all who desire it. It is not restricted to times of sickness. Confessions may be heard anytime and anywhere…”
All are invited to gather and seek forgiveness and receive Absolution. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.
Legion Park Christmas Project
Once again we will partner with St. Francis Cathedral in reaching out to our friends at Legion Park School. The gift bags are available for pick up and need to be returned by Wednesday, December 12,2024. Please wrap the gifts and place them in the bag. We appreciate your kindness.
Vestry Nominating Committee
As we near the end of the year, the Nominating Committee for Vestry members is opening nominations for election to the Vestry. Nominees must be communicants in good standing with the church. As defined by our bylaws, Communicants are members of this Church who have received Holy Communion in this Church at least three times during the preceding year, and Communicants in good standing are communicants of this Church who for the previous year have been faithful in attending church, unless for good cause prevented, and have been faithful in working, praying, and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God.
The Nominating Committee will review all nominations, secure their consent and qualifications for nomination, and will develop a slate of candidates for service on the Vestry. The Church will elect new members at the Annual Meeting in January. Please let Father Jim or any Vestry member know if you want to provide a name for consideration. Nominees should be submitted to Vestry members by
December 10, 2024.
Christmas Schedule
Christmas Eve—5PM
Christmas Day 10AM
Birthdays and Anniversaries
Week of 12/1—12/7: Hali Theriot, Doug Holloway
Worship Team Schedule
Eucharistic Ministers: Emilie Daye, TBA, Dana White, Emmalee Hampton
Lectors: Becky Becnel, Hunter Rulf
Organist/Choirmaster: Doug Hamilton
Ushers: Jack and Brenda Babin, Karen Kelly
Vestry Member on Duty: Hunter Rulf
Altar Guild: Debbie Usie, Cathy Wiemann
Hospitality: Debby Fortier, Shirley Use’
PARISH PRAYER LIST
Jay, Norma, Lydicia, Jere, Lona, Earl, Bob, Mattie, Randolph, JoAnne, Pauline, Karen, Norma, Beulah, Winnie, Susan, George, Marlene, Helen, Sue, Mike, Dawn, Ann, Michelle, Philip, Gerard, Penny, Tina, Charles, Margie, Linda, Beth, Liz, Rhonda, Eloise, Eve, Gerald, Linda, Betty Rose, Cage, Patsy, Kevin, Roger, Robbie, Gail, Karen, Stacey, Lynn, Myrna, Wanda, Rene, Laurel