A Christmas Festival of Lessons & Carols 15 December 2019 – 4:00 o’clock p.m.

First Congregational Church United Church of Christ 444 East Broad Street Columbus, Ohio 43215 Based on Ancient Sources, the first service of this kind in modern times was held in Victorian England. Father E.W. Benson, later and father of E.F. Benson who authored the Lucia novels, began the practice of a Festival Service of Lessons and Carols in preparation for the Christmas Feast, first at Truro Cathedral (1880) and later at Canterbury Cathedral. Popularized by recordings from King’s College, Cambridge, this service has come to be associated with a traditional celebration of Christmas by millions of people throughout the world. Its spirit and content sum up the true spirit of the season, while taking us in heart and mind to the Christmas celebrations of former times.

Many of our congregational carol arrangements today were composed and made famous by Sir (1919–2015). Today we honor the 100th anniversary of his birth by singing his beautiful and now very familiar carol arrangements. Happy birthday, Sir David!

As we listen today to the great music of this holiday season, as we sing the familiar of Advent and carols of Christmas, let us remember the true Spirit of Christmas—that God came among us and dwelt among us. We called His Name Jesus. It is His birth in a stable that we celebrate this afternoon. A blessed Christmas season to you all!

This service is being recorded for podcasting throughout the Christmas season, and is available here: http:// concertsatfirstchurch.org/podcast/ or by clicking the QR link at the right.

Please silence all electronic devices.

Childcare is available for preschool, toddlers, and infants on the first floor of the Education Wing. A Deacon near the pulpit door can direct you.

Assistive Listening Devices are available at the doors from any Deacon.

Available for purchase after the service in the Ralph Fanning Room will be homemade fudge, sold by the Youth Groups, and the 2019 First Church Christmas Ornament featuring a detail from the East Chancel Window, which pictures Mary holding the infant Christ Child. Above are three descending white doves, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. The Ralph Fanning Room may be accessed through the forward doors of the Nave.

The cover art is from an illuminated manuscript of theO , sacred Christian texts dating from the eighth century that are used in the last seven days leading to Christmas. The popular “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is a lyric paraphrase of these texts. All other art used in this program is by Steven Erspamer and is used with permission. Bulletins are printed on recycled paper with a minimum 50% post-consumer content. All music in the bulletin is reprinted under OneLicense.net #A-717661. All rights reserved. Prelude (3:30 p.m.)

The First Church Ringers He is Born Il est né, arr. Arnold Sherman I Wonder as I Wander Appalachian Carol, arr. Sherman Wexford Carol English Carol, arr. Judy Phillips

The Exultate En natus est Emmanuel Michael Praetorius En natus est Emmanuel, Dominus, This day is born Emanuel, God with us! quem praedixit Gabriel, Domi­nus, As foretold by Gabriel; God with us! Dominus Salvator noster est. God with us! a Savior Christ the Lord.

Hic jacet in praesepio, Dominus, Behold Him in the manger lie, God with us! puer admirabilis, Dominus. The admirable Child most high, God with us! Dominus Salvator noster est. God with us! a Saviour Christ the Lord.

Laudetar Pater, Filius, Dominus! Praise we the Father, Son, God with us! Et Sacratus Spiritus, Dominus! And Holy Spirit, God with us! Dominus Salvator noster est. A Savior Christ the Lord.

Mid-Winter Bob Chilcott In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan, Angels and archangels may have gathered there, Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; Cherubim and seraphim thronged the air; Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, But His mother only, in her maiden bliss, In the bleak midwinter, long ago. Worshipped the beloved with a kiss.

Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him, nor earth sustain; What can I give Him, poor as I am? Heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign. If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part; The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ. Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart. —Christina Rossetti (1830–1894) Let Every Heart Cary Ratcliff Let every heart prepare him room and heav'n and nature sing. Joy to the world, the Lord is come: let earth receive her King! While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains repeat the sounding joy, The Savior reigns: joy to the world, let us our songs employ. Sing Emmanuel. Sing God is with us. Hallelujah; sing gloria!

He comes to make his glories known far as the curse is found. No more let sins and sorrows grow, nor thorns infest the ground. He rules the world with truth and grace and makes the nations prove the glories of his righteousness, and wonders of his love. Sing Emmanuel. Sing God is with us. Hallelujah; sing gloria! —, adapt.

G. Dene Barnard, organist La Nativité (The Nativity) Jean Langlais La Crêche (The Cradle) Les Anges (The Angels) Les Bergers (The Shepherds) La Sainte Famille (The Holy Family)

Welcome The Reverend Dr. Timothy C. Ahrens,Senior Minister The Processional Carol Once in royal David’s city

The first stanza is sung by Henry Wade, a solo chorister. (Aarav Peter, cover) The Choir sings the second and third stanzas. The People stand to sing stanzas four through six with the .

Text: Cecil Frances Alexander (1818–1895) Music: Irby, Henry John Gauntlett (1805–1876) Stanza six Descant and harmonization: David Willcocks (1919–2015) The People remain standing. The Bidding Prayer The Reverend Emily Krause Corzine, Associate Minister

Beloved in Christ, as we await the great festival of Christmas, let us prepare ourselves so that we may be shown its true meaning. Let us hear, in readings from Holy Scripture, how the prophets of Israel foretold that God would visit and redeem his waiting people. Let us rejoice, in our carols and hymns, that the good purpose of God is being mightily fulfilled. Let us celebrate the promise that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, will bring all people and all things into the glory of God’s eternal kingdom.

But first, let us pray for the needs of his whole world; for peace and goodwill over all the earth; for the mission and unity of the Church for which he died, and especially in this country and within this community.

And because this of all things would rejoice his heart, let us at this time remember in his name the poor and the helpless; the hungry and the oppressed; the sick and those who mourn; the lonely and the unloved; the aged and the little children; and all those who know not the Lord Jesus, or who love him not, or who by sin have grieved his heart of love.

Let us also remember before God his pure and lowly Mother, and all those who rejoice with us, but upon another shore and in a greater light, that multitude which no one can number, whose hope was in the Word made flesh, and with whom, in this Lord Jesus, we for evermore are one.

These prayers and praises let us humbly offer to God, in the words which Christ himself taught us:

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 debts as we forgive our debtors. 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.

The People sit.

The Bidding Carol Come, thou long expected Jesus

Come, thou long expected Jesus, Born thy people to deliver, born to set thy people free; born a child and yet a King, from our fears and sins release us, born to reign in us forever, let us find our rest in thee. now thy gracious kingdom bring. Israel’s strength and consolation, By thine own eternal spirit hope of all the earth thou art; rule in all our hearts alone; dear desire of every nation, by thine all sufficient merit, joy of every longing heart. raise us to thy glorious throne.

Text: Charles Wesley (1707–1788) Music: Daniel Gawthrop (b. 1949) The First Reading: Genesis 3:1–15 Sebby Kulwicki Exultate Choir chorister

God announces in the Garden of Eden that the seed of woman shall bruise the serpent’s head.

Now the serpent was more crafty than any other wild animal that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God say, “You shall not eat from any tree in the garden”?’ The woman said to the serpent, ‘We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden; but God said, “You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the garden, nor shall you touch it, or you shall die.”‘ But the serpent said to the woman, ‘You will not die; for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.’ So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves. They heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden at the time of the evening breeze, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ He said, ‘I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.’ He said, ‘Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?’ The man said, ‘The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit from the tree, and I ate.’ Then the Lord God said to the woman, ‘What is this that you have done?’ The woman said, ‘The serpent tricked me, and I ate.’ TheLord God said to the serpent, ‘Because you have done this, cursed are you among all animals and among all wild creatures.’

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

Carol The Lord at first did Adam make The Lord at first did Adam make ‘For in the day thou shalt it touch Out of the dust and clay, Or dost to it come nigh; And in his nostrils breathed life, If so thou do but eat thereof E’en as the Scriptures day. Then thou shalt surely die.’ And then in Eden’s Paradise But Adam he did take no heed God placed him to dwell, Unto that holy thing, That he within it should remain But did transgress God’s holy law, To dress and keep it well. And so was wrapt in sin. Chorus. Chorus. Now let good Christians all begin An holy life to live, Now mark the goodness of the Lord And to rejoice and merry be, Which God for humans bore, For this the season is. Whose mercy soon God did extend, To us for to restore; And thus within the garden he And then for to redeem our souls Was set therein to stay, From death and hellish thrall, And in commandment unto him We learned God’s own dear son should be These words the Lord did say: The Savior of us all. ‘The fruit which in the garden grows Chorus. To thee shall be for meat, Except the tree in the midst thereof, Of which thou shalt not eat.’ Chorus.

Text: Anonymous Music: arr. David Willcocks The Second Reading: Genesis 22:15–18 Kylie Cooks Youth Member, 2020 Confirmation Class

God promises to faithful Abraham that in his seed shall the nations of the earth be blessed.

The angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time from heaven, and said, “By myself I have sworn, says the Lord: Because you have done this, and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will indeed bless you, and I will make your offspring as numerous as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of their enemies, and by your offspring shall all the nations of the earth gain blessing for themselves, because you have obeyed my voice.”

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

The People stand. Congregational Carol Good Christian friends, rejoice

Text: Medieval Latin, trans. (1818–1866), alt. Music: In dulci jubilo, 14th century German folk tune The People sit. Carol I saw three ships come sailing in I saw three ships come sailing in on Christmas Day, … on Oh, they sailed into Bethlehem, on Christmas Day … on Christmas Day in the morning. Christmas Day in the morning.

And what was in those ships all three, on Christmas Day, And all the bells on earth shall ring, on Christmas Day … … on Christmas Day in the morning? on Christmas Day in the morning.

Our Savior, Christ, and his lady, on Christmas Day, … on The let us all rejoice again, on Christmas Day, … on Christmas Day in the morning. Christmas Day in the morning!

Pray wither sailed those ships all three, on Christmas Day, … on Christmas Day in the morning?

Text: Traditional English Carol Music: David Willcocks

The Third Reading: Isaiah 9:2, 6–7 Shayla D. Favor Columbus City Council member

Christ’s birth and kingdom are foretold by Isaiah.

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God. Carol I wonder as I wander

I wonder as I wander out under the sky, How Jesus the Savior did come for to die. For poor on’ry people like you and like I... I wonder as I wander out under the sky.

When Mary birthed Jesus ‘twas in a cow’s stall, With wise men and farmers and shepherds and all. But high from God’s heaven a star’s light did fall, And the promise of ages it then did recall.

If Jesus had wanted for any wee thing, A star in the sky, or a bird on the wing, Or all of God’s angels in heav’n for to sing, He surely could have it, ‘cause he was the King.

Lissa Wade, soloist Text: Appalachian Folk Carol Music: arr. Andrew Carter (b. 1939)

The People stand. Congregational Carol Unto us a boy is born

All All Men Women All

Text: Latin, 15th century, tr. Percy Dearmer (1867–1936) Music: Piae Cantiones, arr. David Willcocks The People sit. The Fourth Reading: Micah 5:2–4 David L. Kaufman Chief Executive Officer, Encova Insurance

The prophet Micah foretells the glory of little Bethlehem.

But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel. And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth.

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

Carol O little town of Bethlehem

O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting light; The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight.

How silently, how silently, The wondrous gift is giv’n! So God imparts to human hearts The blessings of his heav’n. No ear may hear his coming; But in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive him, still The dear Christ enters in.

O holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in, Be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels The great glad tidings tell: O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel.

Text: Phillips Brooks (1835–1893) Music: arr. Malcom Archer (b. 1952) The Fifth Reading: Luke 1:26–38 Nina Zimmerman First Church Member

The angel Gabriel salutes the virgin Mary.

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

Carol Sweet was the song the Virgin sang (from Christ’s Nativity)

Sweet was the song the Virgin sang, When she to Bethlem Juda came, And was deliver’d of a Son, That blessed Jesus hath to name. Jesus lullaby, sweet Babe, sang she.

My Son and eke a Saviour born Who hast vouchsafed from on high To visit us that were forlorn. Jesus lullaby, sweet Babe, sang she. And rock’d Him sweetly on her knee. Jesus!

Jamie Blair, soloist Text: William Ballet’s Lute Book, 16th century Music: (1902–1976) The Sixth Reading: Matthew 1:18–23 Lynn Wallich First Church Moderator

Matthew tells of the birth of Jesus.

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us.”

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

Carol A babe is born

A babe is born all of a may, To bring salvation unto us. To him we sing both night and day. Veni Creator Spiritus. (Come Holy Spirit)

At Bethlehem, that blessed place, The child of bliss now born he was; And him to serve God give us grace, O lux beata Trinitas. (O blessed light of Trinity)

There came three kings out of the East, To worship the King that is so free, With gold and myrrh and frankincense, A solis ortus cardine. (From lands that see the sun arise)

The angels came down with one cry, A fair song that night sung they In worship of that child: Gloria tibi Domine. (Glory to thee, O Lord)

A babe is born all of a may, To bring salvation unto us. To him we sing both night and day. Veni Creator Spiritus. Noel!

Text: Anonymous 15th century Music: (1934–1992) The Seventh Reading: Luke 2:8–16 Tracy Nájera Executive Director, Children’s Defense Fund-Ohio The shepherds go to the manger.

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger.

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

The People stand. Congregational Carol God rest you merry, gentlemen

Text: London carol, 18th century Music: God Rest You Merry, arr. David Willcocks The People sit. Carol I am changed

I have found an earthly throne, In this bare place, this humble home. The greatest love the world has known, Heaven’s child resting here below. I have found where I belong I have heard the perfect song; Angel voices from above Heaven’s child given by God’s love. All my tears are wiped away I awake in God’s new day, I am born again today. I will make a promise true In my life Your work to do. I will give my all for You; Heaven’s child I am changed in You; Heaven’s child I am made anew; Heaven’s child born again with You.

Text and Music: Will Todd (b. 1970)

The Eighth Reading: Matthew 2:1–11 Rev. Corzine First Church Associate Minister The wise men are led by the star to Jesus.

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.’” Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.”

When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God. Carol We three Kings We three kings of Orient are Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume Bearing gifts we traverse afar Gold I bring to crown Him again Breathes of life of gathering gloom Field and fountain, moor and mountain King forever, ceasing never Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying Following yonder star Over us all to reign. Refrain Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. Refrain

Refrain: O Star of wonder, star of night Frankincense to offer have I Glorious now behold Him arise Star with royal beauty bright Incense owns a Deity nigh King and God and Sacrifice Westward leading, still proceeding Prayer and praising, all men raising Alleluia, Alleluia Guide us to thy Perfect Light. Worship Him, God most high. Refrain Earth to heav’n replies. Refrain

Dustin Jarred, Justin Meyer, Christopher Humbert, soloists Text: J.H. Hopkins (1820–1891) Music: arr. Martin Neary (b. 1940)

The Ninth Reading: John 1:1–14 Rev. Ahrens First Church Senior Minister John unfolds the great mystery of the Incarnation.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 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. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

Reader The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

Carol Hodie Christus Natus Est

Hodie Christus natus est: Today Christ is born: Hodie Salvator apparuit: Today the Savior appeared: Hodie in terra canunt Angeli, Today on Earth the Angels sing, laetantur Archangeli Archangels rejoice: Hodie exsultant justi, dicentes: Today the righteous rejoice, saying: Gloria in excelsis Deo. Glory to God in the highest. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Text: to the , sung on Vespers on Christmas Day Music: Francis Poulenc (1899–1963) The Offering

Mission Invitation Mark S. Williams The offering will be shared by Concerts at First Church and the YWCA Family Center. Support for the Concerts at First Church depends wholly on the generosity of its patrons. The YWCA Family Center provides emergency shelter and critical services to stabilize homeless families in central Ohio. Donations may also be made by visiting our website at www.first-church.org and to the YWCA Family Center at www.ywcacolumbus.org Thank you for your generous spirit!

Carol Birthday Carol

Rejoice today with one accord, Alleluia, This is the birthday of our Lord. Alleluia. Chorus: Gloria, Gloria in excelsis, Gloria, Gloria Deo!

Shepherds abiding in the field, Alleluia, To them God’s glory was revealed. Alleluia. Chorus.

And to the shepherds sore afraid, Alleluia, An angel said, ‘Be not dismayed,’ Alleluia. Chorus.

‘Tidings of joy to you I bring,’ Alleluia, ‘Today is born a heavenly King.’ Alleluia. Chorus.

‘And ye shall find in manger laid,’ Alleluia, ‘The Babe in swaddling clothes arrayed.’ Alleluia. Chorus.

A host of angels filled the sky, Alleluia, Thus singing praise to God on high. Alleluia. Chorus.

Now join we all the angel throng, Alleluia, And let our voices swell the song: Alleluia. Chorus.

Text: Adapted from Luke 2 by David Willcocks Music: David Willcocks A Christmas Prayer – “This Child” Rev. Ahrens

God of Grace and God of Glory, Your Word comes to dwell with us full of Grace and Truth, Your Son is birthed in our lives as a child who embodies Love. We come before you this night in stillness and wonder. We kneel at his manger and whisper thanks and praise.

Your birthing This Child is not the act of a mad and desperate ruler, Or the breathtaking discovery of a sage, Or the of a musical genius, Or the pious offering of a genuine saint. Your birthing This Child is Your Power alive in this world of Your Creating Which boggles the mind, leads by the Spirit, and causes all creatures great and small to pause and pray.

The birth of This Child transforms all things, Breathes Salvation into life And redeems heartless Humanity. As if to shame the most powerful human efforts to restrain the poor, This Child is placed by You, in the center of world history And he coos as he cuddles, He kicks away hate with tiny toes, He reaches for the stars with little fingers And he caresses Hope in his newborn hands.

This Child, born of humans but given by You, O God, Is nothing less than Your Mystery at the heart of this world’s redemption. All that is past and all that is to come is found in a feed trough, in a barn, in a backwater town at the heart of Your Love for all creation.

Because of This Child, we join our voices, our hearts, our hopes, our hurts, and we come to Bethlehem this night. This Child is our Hope, our Joy, Our Peace, Our Love.

Thank you, Gracious God, for your Son, Our Savior, Thank you for This Child. Amen.

— A prayer by the Rev. Dr. Timothy C. Ahrens, Senior Minister, First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Columbus, Ohio, December 15, 2019 4:00pm, for A Service of Lessons and Carols The People stand. Closing Carol Hark! The herald angels sing

Text: Charles Wesley (1707–1788) Music: Mendelssohn, Felix Mendelssohn (1809–1847) Descant and Organ harmonization: David Willcocks

The People sit. It is our custom to remain seated quietly for the Closing Voluntaries.

Closing Voluntaries In dulci jubilo, BWV 729 J.S. Bach (1685–1750) During the playing of the first Voluntary, the center aisle candles are extinguished.

Postlude on “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” Willcocks (played by Mr. Robertson) During the playing of the second Voluntary, the choirs and clergy will process out. Participants in the Service (in order of appearance)

Kevin Jones, Minister of Music and Organist G. Dene Barnard, Prelude Voluntary Organist Tyler Robertson, Assisting Organist The Reverend Dr. Timothy C. Ahrens,Senior Minister Henry Wade, Solo Chorister Aarav Peter, Solo Chorister cover Matty Provenzano, Crucifer Mark S. Williams, Verger The Reverend Emily Krause Corzine,Associate Minister Sebby Kulwicki, Exultate Choir Chorister Kylie Cooks, Youth Member, 2020 Confirmation Class Shayla D. Favor, Columbus City Council member David L. Kaufman, Chief Executive Officer, Encova Insurance Nina Zimmerman, First Church Member Lynn Wallich, First Church Moderator Tracy Nájera, Executive Director, Children’s Defense Fund-Ohio

The First Church Ringers Janet Axt, Brianna Burkett, Cindy Deliman, John Deliman, Jennifer Fry, Greg Halbe, Kevin Jones, Ryan Jones, Josh Lebold, Nancy Loy, Joel Mathias, SallyJane Mathias, Sandy Mathias, Dayna McCrary, Cathy Redenbarger, Wyatt Shimeall, Janine White

The Exultate Choir Jamie Blair and Kevin Jones, co-directors Carmen Axt, Maya Haslett, Will Haslett, Madeline Helmer, Sebby Kulwicki, Erin Murray, Ethan Murray, Aarav Peter, Sophia Polo, Mia Provenzano, AnnaSofia Grace Severson, Peter Spofforth, Donna Vogt, Henry Wade

The First Church Choir Soprano: Marti Baumer, Brianna Burkett, Candace Cummings, Jennifer Fry, Catherine Goode, Melissa Lawson, Joan Lombardi, Susan Pusecker, Megan Smith, Lissa Wade, Margaret Wells, Lexi White Alto: Janet Axt, Jamie Blair, Cari Brackett, Susan Brooks, Cindy Deliman, Allison Ellenberger, Marcia Essig, Cheryl Hoskinson, Mary Anne Jacobson, Sarah Lange, Nancy Loy, SallyJane Mathias, Dora Paolucci, Cathy Redenbarger, Jan Wade Tenor: Bill Catus, Kevin Cubick, Jim Griffin, Dustin Jarred, Bill Lange, Justin Meyer, Pavan Peter, Rick Sayre Bass: Joseph Bellissimo, Matthew Bester, Jonathan Bethke, Jeff Corzine, John Deliman, Jim Gieseke, Christopher Humbert, Sebastian Knowles, Ryan Jones, David Stang About Today’s Community Readers

It has long been the mission of Concerts at First Church to bring quality cultural events to the city of Columbus and the Central Ohio region. As we find ourselves in the newly-created Discovery District, we are committed to adding to the cultural offerings available to the residents of the Discovery District as well. To that end, we have for a number of years, featured several readers at Lessons and Carols that are of vital importance to the ongoing renewal and development of the Discovery District and the wider City of Columbus. This year we present Shayla D. Favor, David L. Kaufman, and Tracy Nájera, each of whom brings a vital artistic and human force to not only the Discovery District, but also the city of Columbus and beyond.

Shalya D. Favor, Columbus City Council member, was appointed was appointed to fill the unexpired term of newly elected Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Judge Jaiza Page on January 14, 2019. Prior to joining Council, Favor served as an Assistant City Attorney in Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein’s office. As a Zone Attorney, Favor had the opportunity to litigate high-profile environmental lawsuits, advise administrative and local governmental agencies, and draft several pieces of legislation. Favor worked alongside the leaders of our city and community to provide essential city services to improve Columbus’ neighborhoods and facilitate conversations to address criminal activity, vacancies, abandonment, and blight. While serving as a Zone Attorney, Favor implemented two initiatives to address our City’s blight; the Vacant and Abandoned Property program, along with Receivership program, have both addressed blight through enforcement, demolition and rehabilitation. These initiatives have effectively helped to decrease our vacant and abandoned property count and to put once-blighted properties back into the housing market. In addition to serving on Council, Favor serves on the Executive Board of the John Mercer Langston Bar Association, whose purpose is to be a facilitator of excellence within the legal profession while encouraging community service for those in need. Favor also serves on the Executive Board for the annual design conference, Creative Control Fest. Creative Control Fest aims to provide a platform for creatives of color in the industries of art, music, design, activism, tech, scholarship and entrepreneurship. Favor lives on the Near-East side of Columbus with her husband Corey Favor and their six-year old puppy Hudson. Corey is a proud New Yorker who moved to Columbus to attend Columbus College of Art & Design. Corey is now a Director of Marketing at The Ohio State University, Board of Trustee member for CCAD, Board member of Create Columbus Commission, and co-founder of Creative Control Fest.

David L. Kaufman, Chief Executive Officer, Encova Insurance, started his career as an actuary with Connecticut General and then as a financial analyst with Capital Holding Corporation. He joined Motorists (now Encova) in 1986 and has served in a number of leadership roles, including appointed actuary, mergers and acquisitions, commercial lines and information technology. Dave joined the executive leadership team as senior vice president and CIO in 2000. He was elected executive vice president by the Motorists Mutual board of directors in 2010, and then named executive vice president for all companies in the group in 2011. He was elected president and COO in 2012 and became president and CEO a year later. Dave serves as a board director for all the companies in Motorists Insurance Group. Dave is a trusted adviser and serves on several industry boards. He holds board positions with the American Association of Insurance Services, Griffith Insurance Education Foundation, Insurance Industry Resource Council (IIRC), NAMIC Property and Casualty Conference Board (PCC), Ohio Insurance Institute (OII), Property Casualty Insurers Association of America and TrustedChoice.com. He currently has leadership roles as co-chair of the IIRC, vice-chair of OII and chair of PCC. In addition to his industry involvement, Dave is active in the local community as a board member of the Ronald McDonald House, Columbus Partnership and the Chamber of Commerce. Dave also founded Future Possibilities Inc., a nonprofit organization that delivers a life-skills coaching program to inner-city youth in Columbus, Ohio. While playing varsity basketball for Ohio Wesleyan University, Dave earned bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and economics, graduating cum laude. He is a member of the American Academy of Actuaries. Dave and his wife, Nan, live in Worthington, Ohio, and are proud parents of three daughters. He enjoys all sports and actively golfs, skis, plays platform tennis and runs marathons. Kaufman will step down as CEO at the end of this year.

Tracy Nájera, Executive Director, Children’s Defense Fund-Ohio, has committed her professional career to improving the lives of children and their families. Tracy comes to CDF most recently as a Senior Consultant for Education First Consulting where she supported school districts and education partners to improve education outcomes for children. Previously, Tracy spent six years as a Senior Director of the Ohio Appalachian Collaborative at Battelle for Kids where her responsibilities included managing a $54 million federal project with the state of Ohio to improve the efficacy of teachers serving students in Appalachian Ohio. Additionally, she spent eight years at the State Office of Budget and Management a majority of which she served as the Section Chief for Education under three Governors. Earlier in her career, Tracy was an Education Policy Analyst with KidsOhio.org where she worked with public school systems to close the achievement gaps in urban education settings. And, notably, launched her career with CDF-Ohio as a Research Fellow. Tracy holds a Bachelor of Arts, a Masters in Public Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy all from The Ohio State University. Tracy was born in San Antonio, Texas and raised near Dayton, Ohio. THANK YOU to our donors for their support of Concerts at First Church. Through their generosity we can offer programs that feature our outstanding organs and choirs, and that offer the congregation at First Congregational Church, UCC, and the greater Columbus community both musical variety and excellence. Gabriel ($1000+) Cherubim ($100-$249) Angels ($50-$99) Anonymous Anonymous Daniel E. Schleppi Joseph Bellissimo and Kevin Jones Gretchen Atkinson Peter Anderson Jim and Mary Day Fewlass Lyle and Meg Barkhymer and Kathleen Sandman Thomas Gerke Fubara and Stella Braide Gene and Sue Babb Marti and Rob Rideout Tom and Evalyn Brandt John Bachman Allen Baker and Al Waddell Bobby Carrington Paul Barte Lissa and Drew Wade Jhan and Joan Corzine Gene E. Beard Lynn R. Wallich Kevin Cubick Dorothy Beehner Mark and Shelley Gallant Michael Broome, in memory Archangels ($500-$999) Jennifer A. Fry of Robert C. Roberts William R. Mitchell, M.D. Pat Liebchen Terry and Penny Casey Barbara Johannes Clapham Gleva Stephens Chessie Dellenbach Catherine, Todd, G. Dene Barnard David Fontana and Aran Cunningham Carol Ann Bradley Ann Fox Christine and W. Thomas Farquhar Frank and Susan Cook Dawn George Sarah Giffen Kate Erickson Ron and Beth Kenreich Gail Johannes In memory of Amalie K. Nelson Eric and Bonnie Klintworth Mary Jane John Eva Goode Jerry L. Meyer Bill and Sarah Lange Leslie Huntington Carolyn Moore Lisa and John Schechter Heath Jolliff and Ryan Jones David C. Nassau Philip and Candace Schneider James Kyle Marilyn J. Potts Jan Wade Sam and Jean Lebold Rita and Michael Preston Marty and Gerry Worth David and Betty Meil Larry and Carol Rhoades Honoring Marie and Dick Pfeiffer Anne Powell Riley Seraphim ($250-$499) Todd and Nyla Phillips Ann and Jim Walters Jonathan Bethke and Glenn Grace Blake and Chris Rafeld Bert and Bev Cook Wayne and Cathy Redenbarger Friends ($1-$49) Jeff and Emily Corzine In memory of Helen Wilson A.R. Koolemans Beynen William Davis and Ronald Jenkins Richard M. Sayre Margaret Cipriani Marcia Essig Hugh Schultz and Dana Navin Ronald Betz and Richard Horton Jim Gieseke and Deb Fox Kent Shimeall and Lisa Morris Carol and Jim Gallagher Judy Smith Nancy Livingston Matthew Stevens and James Velo Dennis and Joan Lombardi In memory of Dorothy John and Jane Muller Cromartie and Amos White Tim Utterback Richard and Jane Ward Marti Baumer Elaine Warren Nancy Braverman The Weaver Family John and Francille Firebaugh Mark S. Williams Al and Barbara Glover and Timothy Carsey Greg Kellison and Erik Speicher Anne Jeffrey Wright Cynthia Krause Sandra and Joel Mathias David B. Stang Sheldon and Rebecca Taft Amy and Bill Wagner We invite you to Celebrate the Entire Season at First Church

Sunday, December 22 – The Fourth Sunday of Advent 9 a.m. – Morning Prayer and Holy Communion 11 a.m. – Worship

Tuesday, December 24 – Christmas Eve 3 p.m. – Family Christmas Eve Service 7:30 p.m. – Christmas Eve Service including the Drama of the Nativity 10:30 p.m. – Nativity Concert – A Celebration of David Willcocks Carols 11 p.m. – Candlelight Communion Service

Sunday, December 29 – The First Sunday of Christmas 9 a.m. – Community Lessons and Carols with Holy Communion 11 a.m. – Community Lessons and Carols

Sunday, January 5 – The Second Sunday of Christmas 9 a.m. – Morning Prayer and Holy Communion 11 a.m. – Holy Communion

Upcoming Concert Events

• Sunday, January 19, 4 p.m. – Choral The First Church Choir • Tuesday, February 4, 12:15 p.m. – Brahms Liebeslieder Waltzes, Op. 52 • Sunday, February 16, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir • Sunday, March 1, 4 p.m. – Fireworks for Brass and Organ • Tuesday, March 3, 12:15 p.m. – Baroque Flutist Amy Guitry and Harpsichordist Kevin Jones • Sunday, March 15, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir • Sunday, April 19, 7:30 p.m. – Organist Clark Wilson accompanies the silent film masterpiece “King of Kings” • Sunday, May 3, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong and Choir CD Release Concert

For more information, please visit www.concertsatfirstchurch.org Welcome Statement You are welcomed, affirmed, and loved here; our faith informs us that you are a child of a loving God. Your characteristics and gifts will enrich our congregation. In this community, you will be celebrated, embraced, and honored, no matter how you identify or how your identity may evolve. Wherever you are on your faith journey, we invite you to join us in our diverse yet united experience.

Open and Affirming Statement We, the members of First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Columbus, Ohio, welcome and affirm all. We believe we are all created in God’s image and called to love our neighbors as Jesus loves us. We believe we are many members, but one body in Christ, called to unite all people in God’s love. We are a community seeking God’s presence and love in our lives. We seek to unite persons of all ages, races, nationalities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, sexes, gender identities and expressions, family structures, mental, intellectual and physical conditions, economic circumstances, political, theological and faith backgrounds. Together in our diversity, and being empowered and directed by the Holy Spirit, we will “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God.” (Micah 6:8) —Adopted September 8, 2002 by the congregation Revisions adopted January 27, 2019 by the congregation

First Church is a faith community: † Called together by God, the Creator and Sustainer of life, to worship, pray and serve; † Led by Jesus Christ, our Teacher and Savior, to learn the faith and welcome all God’s children; † Empowered by the Holy Spirit to witness to God’s love and justice between ourselves, and throughout the world.

First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ 444 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215-3885 phone: 614.228.1741 fax: 614.461.1741 www.first–church.org First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ United Church Church, Congregational First