A Christmas Festival of Lessons & Carols 17 December 2017 – 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 Archbishop of Canterbury 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.

As we listen today to the great music of this holiday season, as we sing the familiar hymns 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 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 2017 First Church Christmas Ornament featuring a detail from the Clerestory windows of the Nave. The Ralph Fanning Room may be accessed through the forward doors of the Nave.

The cover art is from the 13th-century Psalter of Ingeburge, specifically folio 79, and depicts The Annunciation: The Archangel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary his divine maternity, The Visitation: Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, pregnant with John the Baptist (Gospel of St. Luke), and the Gesin: the birth of the Virgin Mary. 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.)

G. Dene Barnard, Organist/Choirmaster Emeritus The Snow Lay On the Ground Leo Sowerby

The First Church Ringers ‘Twas in the Moon of Wintertime Huron Carol, arr. Matthew Prins Sussex Carol Sussex Carol, arr. Jason Krug

The Jubilate Choir I Saw Three Ships Traditional English Carol, arr. Craig Curry Gesu Bambino Pietro Yon, arr. Michael Burkhardt

The Exultate Choir Psallite unigenito Michael Praetorius The Feast of the Snow Ron Cook Ron Cook, recorder Sing of a Girl Peter Niedmann

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 verse is sung by Henry Wade, a solo chorister. (Sebby Kulwicki, cover) The Choir sings the second verse. The People stand to sing verses 4–6 with the Choirs.

Text: Cecil Frances Alexander (1818–1895) Music: Irby, Henry John Gauntlett (1805–1876) Verse 6 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 O Radiant Dawn

O Radiant Dawn, Splendor of eternal Light, Sun of Justice: come, shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death. Isaiah had prophesied, ‘The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.’ O Radiant Dawn... Amen.

Text: O oriens, splendor lucis æternæ, Antiphon for December 21 Music: James MacMillan (b. 1959) The First Reading: Genesis 3:1–15 Mariah Watts Jubilate 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.

The People stand. Congregational Carol Of the Father’s heart begotten

Text: Prudentius, tr. John Mason Neale Music: Divinum Mysterium, arr. David Willcocks The People sit. The Second Reading: Genesis 22:15–18 Adam Wade Youth Member, Exultate Choir chorister

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.

Carol My Dancing Day

Tomorrow shall be my dancing day: I would my true love did so chance To see the legend of my play, To call my true love to my dance: Sing O my love, O my love, This have I done for my true love.

Then was I born of a virgin pure, Of her I took fleshly substance; Thus was I knit to a man’s nature, To call my true love to my dance: Sing O my love… &c.

In a manger laid and wrapped I was, So very poor this was my chance, Betwixt an ox and a silly poor ass, To call my true love to my dance: Sing O my love… &c.

Sung by the Exultate Choir of First Church Text: Latin, trans. John Mason Neale (1818–1866), alt. Music: Old English Carol, arr. Gerald Near (b. 1942) The Third Reading: Isaiah 9:2, 6–7 Christie Angel Executive Director, YWCA Columbus

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 Jesus Christ the Apple Tree 1. The tree of life my soul hath seen, Laden with fruit and always green: The trees of nature fruitless be Compared with Christ the apple tree.

2. His beauty doth all things excel: By faith I know, but ne'er can tell The glory which I now can see In Jesus Christ the apple tree.

3. For happiness I long have sought, And pleasure dearly I have bought: I missed of all; but now I see 'Tis found in Christ the apple tree.

4. I'm weary with my former toil, Here I will sit and rest awhile: Under the shadow I will be, Of Jesus Christ the apple tree.

5. This fruit doth make my soul to thrive, It keeps my dying faith alive; Which makes my soul in haste to be With Jesus Christ the apple tree.

Text: From Divine Hymns or Spiritual Songs, compiled by Joshua Smith, New Hampshire, 1784 Music: Elizabeth Poston (1905–1987) The Fourth Reading: Micah 5:2–4 Frederic Bertley COSI Chief Executive Officer

The prophet Micah foretells the glory of little Bethlehem.

B ut 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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

Jesse Bobbitt and Justin Meyer, soloists Text: Phillips Brooks (1835–1893) Music: Henry Walford Davies (1869–1941)

Carol All on a Silent Night

On a silent, holy night, a bright, shining star will lend heaven’s light. Voices of angels joyfully sing a sweet alleluia to the King; All on this silent, holy night, all on this silent 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.

Sung by the Jubilate Choir; SallyJane Mathias, cello Text: Becki Slagle Mayo and Joseph Mohr (1835–1893) Music: Becki Slagle Mayo with Stille Nacht (Franz Gruber) The Fifth Reading: Luke 1:26–38 Jane Werum 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 Ave Maria

Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum; benedicta tu in mulieribus, et benedictus fructus ventris tui, Jesus. Sancta Maria, Mater Dei, ora pro nobis peccatoribus, nunc et in hora mortis nostrae. Amen.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Text: Traditional Catholic Prayer Music: Jacques Arcadelt (c. 1505–1568), arr. Pierre-Louis Dietsch (1808–1865) The Sixth Reading: Luke 2:1–7 Kent Shimeall First Church Moderator

Luke tells of the birth of Jesus.

In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

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 Il est né le divin enfant Il est né, le divin Enfant, He was born, the divine Child, Jouez, hautbois, résonnez, musettes; Play, oboe, resound, musettes; Il est né, le divin Enfant; He is born, the divine Child; Chantons tous son avènement! Let’s all sing his advent!

Depuis plus de quatre mille ans, For over four thousand years, Nous le promettaient les Prophètes; We were promised him by the Prophets; Depuis plus de quatre mille ans, For over four thousand years, Nous attendions cet heureux temps. We were waiting for this happy time.

Ah! qu’il est beau, qu’il est charmant, Ah! how beautiful he is, how charming he is, Que ses grâces sont parfaites! May his graces be perfect! Ah! qu’il est beau, qu’il est charmant, Ah! how beautiful he is, how charming he is, Qu’il est doux le divin Enfant! How sweet is the Divine Child!

Une étable est son logement, A stable is his home, Un peu de paille, sa couchette, A little straw, his bunk, Une étable est son logement, A stable is his home, Pour un Dieu, quel abaissement! For a God, what an abasement!

O Jésus! O Roi tout puissant! O Jesus! O Almighty King! Tout petit enfant que vous etes, Every little child you are, O Jésus! O Roi tout puissant! O Jesus! O Almighty King! Régnez sur nous entierement! Rule over us entirely! Text: Traditional French Carol Music: arr. John Rutter (b. 1945)

The Seventh Reading: Luke 2:8–16 Rick Neal Candidate for U.S. Congress, Ohio’s 15th District 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. Carol Hymn of the Nativity

We saw Thee in Thy balmy nest, Young dawn of our eternal day; We saw Thine eyes break from the East, And chase the trembling shades away: We saw Thee, and we blest the sight, We saw Thee by Thine own sweet light.

I saw th’ obsequious seraphim Their rosy fleece of fire bestow, For well they now can spare their wings, Since Heaven itself lies here below. Well done, said I; but are you sure Your down, so warm, will pass for pure?

No, no, your King’s not yet to seek Where to repose His royal head; See, see how soon His new-bloom’d cheek ‘Twixt mother’s breasts is gone to bed. Sweet choice, said we, no way but so, Not to lie cold, yet sleep in snow!

Welcome all wonders in one sight! Eternity shut in a span! Summer in winter! day in night! Heaven in eart ! and God in man! Great little one, whose all-embracing birth Lifts earth to Heaven, stoops Heaven to earth!

To Thee, meek Majesty, soft King Of simple graces and sweet love ! Each of us his lamb will bring, Each his pair of silver doves! At last, in fire of Thy fair eyes, Ourselves become our own best sacrifice!

Elizabeth McConnaughey, soprano soloist Text: Richard Crashaw (1612–1649) Music: Kenneth Leighton (1929–1988) 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 In the Bleak Midwinter

In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan, Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, In the bleak midwinter, long ago.

Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him, nor earth sustain; Heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign. In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.

Angels and archangels may have gathered there, Cherubim and seraphim thronged the air; But His mother only, in her maiden bliss, Worshipped the beloved with a kiss.

What can I give Him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part; Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart.

Margaret Wells, soprano soloist Text: Christina Rossetti (1830–1894) Music: Richard Allain (b. 1965) 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 Resonemus laudibus

Resonemus laudibus cum jocunditatibus ecclesiam fdelibus. Apparuit quem genuit Maria. Deus fecit hominem ad suam imaginem et similitudinem. Apparuit quem genuit Maria. Deus fecit omnia: cælum, terram, maria cunctaque nascentia. Apparuit quem genuit Maria. Ergo nostra concio in chordis et organo benedicat Domino. Apparuit quem genuit Maria. Et Deo qui venias donat et lætitias nos eidem gratias. Apparuit quem genuit Maria.

Let us resound with praise with rejoicing faithful to the Church. He appeared whom Mary bore. The Lord created us in His image and likeness. He appeared whom Mary bore. The Lord created everything: heaven, earth, sea, and everything that was born. He appeared whom Mary bore. Therefore, our conscience with heart and organ shall praise the Lord. He appeared whom Mary bore. And to the Lord, who came and gave us gladness, let us offer thanks to Him. He appeared whom Mary bore.

Sung by the Exultate and First Church Choirs Text: 14th Century Music: David Willcocks 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 Make we joy now in this fest

Refrain Make we joy now in this fest In quo Christus natus est. Eya. (On which Christ was born. Hail.) 1. A Patre Unigenitus (The only Son of the Father) Is through a maiden come to us: Sing we of Him and say Welcome, Veni, Redemptor gencium. (Come, Redeemer of the nations.) Refrain

2. Agnoscat omne seculum, (Let all the world acknowledge Thee,) A bright star made three kings come, Him for to seek with their presen’s, Verbum supernum prodiens. (Showing forth the high Word.) Refrain

3. A solis ortus cardine (Arisen from the quarter of the sun ) So mighty a Lord is None as He; And to our kind He hath Him knit, Adam parens quod polluit. (Which Adam, the parent, did pollute.) Refrain

4. Maria ventre concepit, (Conceived in Mary’s womb,) The Holy Ghost was ay her with, Of her in Bethlem born He is, Consors paterni luminis. (Consort of the light of the Father.) Refrain

5. O lux beata Trinitas, (O blessed light of the Trinity,) He lay between an ox and ass, Beside His mother maiden free, Gloria tibi, Domine. (Glory to Thee, O Lord.) Refrain

Text: Old English Carol, 15th century Music: William Walton (1902–1983) A Christmas Prayer –“Stand in this World of Darkness” Rev. Ahrens

Let us gather our hearts for prayer in the midst of December’s descending darkness.

Gracious God, Creator of the Universe and each one of us, Come stand with us in this world of darkness. You who “dwell among us full of grace and truth” come abide with us now.

Rise within us just as Your Word rises as the Star of Wondrous Light. Abide within us as Your Word brightens our lives full of birth, full of love and delight. Speak to us in the stillness of this winter night. Let us hear your voice in the squirrel twittering, the baby chattering and the child singing herself to sleep. Let us hear You in our aging parent’s voice moving from earth to heaven. In silence, in sound Your kingdom comes, Your will is done as Your Word becomes flesh and dwells among us once again.

As we stand on the edge of the longest night, we see your light rising in the moon and the stars. Through candle light we follow and seek comfort and confidence though the winds of winter blow. For we know your Word will not be overcome by darkness.

You gave annunciating angel clarity of voice and message. You gave choirs messiah music of the spheres, You taught stars to dance joy and heavens to sing glory. And your joy and glory go out through your unexpected universe And Your song is sung forever of holiness that stretches beyond our bright blue planet and into the galaxies where your tender mercy and grace touch every trembling heart.

O Ancient of Days, O Song in Silence, O Light of Nations, The psalmist and saints, The prophets and apostles, The shepherds and kings bend low this night to worship Your Word lowly laid in the manger of Bethlehem, in the Barn of our Savior’s birth.

All Timeless and timely tunes, All Melodies of musicians and harmonies of hearts, All Cries of the poor and prayers of refugees, All the hurts, All the hungers, All the hopes of all the ages Kneel in penitent prayer before you this night.

We kneel with them. We come for the sake of Him in Whom Your Word was made flesh and now dwells with us, Even Jesus Christ, our Lord, our Light, our Savior, our Song. Amen.

— A Christmas Prayer:“Stand in this World of Darkness” by the Rev. Dr. Timothy C. Ahrens, Senior Minister, The First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Columbus, Ohio, December 20, 2015 The People stand. Closing Carol O come, all ye faithful

Text: John Francis Wade (1711–1786) Music: Adeste fideles, John Mason Neale Descant & 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.

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” Neil Harmon (b. 1967) (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)

G. Dene Barnard, Prelude Voluntary Organist Tyler Robertson, Assisting Organist Sandra Mathias, Jubilate Choir Director Ron Cook, Recorder The Reverend Dr. Timothy C. Ahrens,Senior Minister Henry Wade, Solo Chorister Sebby Kulwicki, Solo Chorister cover Will Zimmerman, Crucifer Mark S. Williams, Verger The Reverend Emily Krause Corzine,Associate Minister Mariah Watts, Jubilate Choir Chorister Adam Wade, Youth Member, Exultate Choir Chorister Christie Angel, Executive Director, YWCA Columbus Frederic Bertley, COSI Chief Executive Officer SallyJane Mathias, Cellist Jane Werum, First Church Member Kent Shimeall, First Church Moderator Rick Neal, Candidate for U.S. Congress, Ohio’s 15th District Kevin Jones, Minister of Music & Organist

The First Church Ringers Janet Axt, Sean Bragg, Neal Brower, Brianna Burkett, John Deliman, Kevin Jones, Ryan Jones, Josh Lebold, Nancy Loy, Joel Mathias, SallyJane Mathias, Sandy Mathias, Fran Panek

The Jubilate Choir Sandra Mathias, director Carmen Axt, Grace Glaros, Sebby Kulwicki, Maggie Myers, Mariah Okezie-Watts, Aarav Peter, Henry Wade, Chase Washington

The Exultate Choir Lincoln Glaros, Madeline Helmer, Cassidy Hopcraft, Dylan Hopcraft, Mae Hubbard, Erin Murray, Ethan Murray, Miriam Myers, Samantha Myers, Sophia Polo, Mia Provenzano, AnnaSofia Grace Severson, Joseph Spofforth, Peter Spofforth, Adam Wade

The First Church Choir Soprano: Marti Baumer, Kristen Blanks, Jesse Bobbitt, Brianna Burkett, Candace Cummings, Allison Lange, Joan Lombardi, Nancy Loy, Kristen Mazur, Elizabeth McConnaughey, Margaret Wells Alto: Janet Axt, Cari Brackett, Christy Carlson, Cindy Deliman, Allison Ellenberger, Marcia Essig, Brad Findell, Cheryl Hoskinson, Mary Anne Jacobson, Sarah Lange, SallyJane Mathias, Cathy Redenbarger, Jan Wade, Mary Weaver Tenor: Neal Brower, Bill Catus, Kevin Cubick, Jim Griffin, Bill Johannes, Bill Lange, Justin Meyer, Pavan Peter, Rick Sayre Bass: Joseph Bellissimo, Jonathan Bethke, Jeff Corzine, John Deliman, Jim Gieseke, Christopher Humbert, Sebastian Knowles, Ryan Jones, David Stang, Cameron Wade 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 the Christie Angel, Frederic Bertley, and Rick Neal, each of whom brings a vital artistic and human force to not only the Discovery District, but also the city of Columbus and beyond.

Christie Angel is President and Chief Executive Officer of YWCA Columbus, one of the community’s most respected organizations dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women. In this role, Angel oversees the organization, which currently serves women and families in the greater Columbus area. Christie joined YWCA Columbus in December 2017, bringing more than 30 years of expertise in the areas of philanthropy, economic development, public infrastructure, housing and grants management, health and human services, and government procurement. Prior to joining YWCA Columbus, Christie Angel was Principal of Government Relations and Public Affairs for Calfee Strategic Solutions. Previously, Christie served as Deputy Chief of Staff and External Affairs & Services Director to former Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman. She led the mayor’s external affairs office, served as the city’s chief government relations officer, and was responsible for developing and retaining relationships with business and community partners. Angel has been appointed to numerous leadership roles to assist with leadership transitions and community matters. She served on the transition teams for Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, former Mayor Michael Coleman, and former Governor Ted Strickland. She is an active community volunteer and has served on numerous community boards and commissions including, but not limited to, YWCA Columbus, 200 Columbus – the Bicentennial, CAPA, Columbus Urban League, Community Shelter Board, Greater Columbus Arts Council, Leadership Columbus, Mid-Ohio Foodbank, Pizzuti Collection, River South Authority, United Way of Central Ohio, Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, and the Columbus Women’s Commission.

Frederic Bertley, COSI Chief Executive Officer.Dr. Frederic Bertley is the President and Chief Executive Officer of COSI in Columbus, Ohio and began his leadership of COSI in January of 2017. In his role as President, Dr. Bertley imagines COSI as the epicenter for all things scientific for the Columbus community. Prior to joining COSI, Dr. Bertley was Senior Vice President for and Education with the renowned Franklin Institute in where he directed a diverse portfolio of visionary initiatives supporting innovation in STEM learning, and science communication, as well as departments and programs that capture the history and legacy of The Franklin Institute including the prestigious Benjamin Franklin Awards Program. Dr. Bertley also played a critical role in community outreach, partnerships and fundraising practices of the Institute. Dr. Bertley directed various departments supporting research-based projects as well as program development and implementation. Dr. Bertley founded and directed the Color of Science™, which highlights the incredible contributions of women and persons of color to modern day science and engineering. Dr. Bertley has a strong record in academia, studying Physiology, Mathematics, and the as an undergraduate student. Following his B.Sc., he obtained a Ph.D. in Immunology, both degrees from McGill University, and then completed a post-doctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School. After graduating from McGill, Dr. Bertley turned his attention to the lack of primary healthcare, preventative medicine, and basic vaccines in developing nations where he managed multinational teams in , The Sudan, and the Canadian Arctic. Dr. Bertley continued this focus by joining a vaccine research group at Harvard Medical School focusing on the development of DNA vaccines for HIV/AIDS. Dr. Bertley has lectured on a variety of science and education topics at universities, colleges, cultural institutions, and government agencies throughout the world. He has keynoted and been an invited speaker at several distinguished institutions including The United Nations, The White House, the US Department of Interior, the National Academy of , and the National Science Foundation here in the U.S., as well as in Canada, the Caribbean, South America, Europe, and Africa. Dr. Bertley sits on numerous boards including Health NewsWorks, iPRAXIS, and the Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement (PYPM). He also is a member of the selection committee for the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Public Engagement with Science Award. Dr. Bertley has received numerous honors some of which include: Dell Inc. Inspire 100 World Changers, Harvard Medical School Dean’s Service Award, Philadelphia Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, Philadelphia Business Journal Minority Business Leader of The Year, The President’s Award (Merck), Citation from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and two Mid-Atlantic, National Academy of Television and Science EMMYs™.

Rick Neal, Candidate for U.S. Congress, Ohio’s 15th District. is running for Congress in Ohio’s 15th district. Prior to launching his campaign in August 2017, Rick was a community activist in Columbus, following a career abroad in public health and humanitarian relief. He grew up in the suburbs of Milwaukee and Chicago, and received his bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio. He joined the Peace Corps and served for five years in Morocco as a teacher and health educator. He earned a master’s degree in public health from the University of North Carolina and headed back overseas. He ran relief programs for refugees and displaced people in Cambodia, Azerbaijan, Burundi, and the DR Congo; he launched a hospital reconstruction project in Afghanistan and joined the humanitarian response in Jordan following the US invasion of Iraq in 2003. Rick pursued his interest in international relations with a second master’s degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and brought his previous experience to bear as an advocate for humanitarian issues based in Washington DC. While there, Rick met his husband, Columbus native Tom Grote. They married in 2007, and Rick has spent the last several years raising their two daughters in their German Village home. Rick and Tom are leaders in the Columbus LGBT community and have been deeply involved in the fight for marriage equality and the protection of LGBT civil rights. In 2014, Rick returned briefly to Africa, where he was stationed for a month in the Liberian capital of Monrovia at the height of the Ebola epidemic, assisting in the construction of a 100-bed field hospital. Following the 2016 elections, he built on his involvement with the Ohio Democratic Party and numerous political campaigns to fight back against the policies of the new administration. That impulse led to his interest in the 15th district, its broad economic diversity, and its compelling priorities around better-paying jobs, an end to the opioid crisis, and affordable healthcare for everyone. 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) Jim & Mary Day Fewlass Stanford & Jane Ackley A music lover Joseph Bellissimo & Kevin Jones Deborah M. Anderson The Rev. Tim Ahrens & Susan Sitler Marti & Rob Rideout Gretchen Atkinson John G. Bachman Drew & Lissa Wade Gene & Sue Babb Lyle & Meg Barkhymer Al Waddell & Allen Baker G. Dene Barnard Gene E. Beard Jane M. Werum Carol Ann Bradley Larry W. Clark Tom & Evalyn Brandt Chessie Dellenbach Archangels ($500-$999) Nancy Braverman David Fontana Cari Brackett Neal Brower & Dan Albrecht Dawn George The Rev. & Mrs. Earl & Pauline Fritz Bobby Carrington In memory of Alan Jones Thomas Gerke Timothy W. Carsey & Mark S. Williams Ron & Beth Kenreich Nancy Jeffrey John W. Chalfant Carolyn Moore Mary Jane John Frank & Susan Cook Mark D. Plescia William R. Mitchell, M.D. Jhan & Joan Corzine Nancy E. Renneckar In memory of Marie & Dick Pfeiffer Kevin Cubick Anne Powell Riley Lisa & John Schechter John & Cindy Deliman Daniel E. Schleppi Philip & Candace Schneider John & Francille Firebaugh Douglas & Patricia Slusher Jan Wade Jennifer Fry Mark & Shelley Gallant Friends ($1-$49) Seraphim ($250-$499) Sarah & Wally Giffen Peter Anderson & Kathleen Sandman Marti Baumer Leslie Huntington Ronald Betz & Richard Horton Barbara Johannes Clapham Richard & Janet Kevan Norman Bunting Bert & Bev Cook Barbara Knox Roger Miller & Susan Craig Jeff & Emily Corzine Pat Liebchen Christine & Thomas Farquhar David & Betty Meil Carol & Jim Gallagher Jerry L. Meyer Jim Gieseke & Deb Fox James & Carol Myers Gail & Bill Johannes In memory of Amalie K. Nelson Bill & Sarah Lange Todd & Nyla Phillips Nancy Livingston Wayne & Cathy Redenbarger Sandy & Joel Mathias Richard M. Sayre John & Jane Muller Hugh M. & Dana Navin Schultz David A. Ringer Lisa Morris & Kent Shimeall Judy Smith Gleva Stephens David B. Stang Tim Utterback Sheldon & Rebecca Taft Amy & Bill Wagner Lynn Wallich Richard & Jane Ward Mary & Charlie Weaver Elaine Warren Gerry & Marty Worth We invite you to Celebrate the Entire Season at First Church

Sunday, December 24 – The Fourth Sunday of Advent 11 a.m. - Worship with the Sacrament of Baptism

Sunday, 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 – Magnificat! 11 p.m. – Candlelight Communion Service

Sunday, December 31 – The First Sunday of Christmas 9 a.m. – Community Lessons and Carols with Holy Communion 11 a.m. – Community Lessons and Carols

Upcoming Concert Events

• Sunday, January 7, at 3 p.m. Twelfth Night “Mystery & Masque” with The Early Interval (Ticketed event - www.earlymusicincolumbus.org) • Sunday, January 21, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir • Tuesday, February 6, 12:15 p.m. – Organist G. Dene Barnard • Sunday, February 18, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir • Sunday, March 4, 4 p.m. – Organist Dexter Kennedy • Tuesday, March 6, 12:15 p.m. – Kevin Jones, Harpsichord • Sunday, March 18, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir • Friday, March 30, 7:30 p.m. – Good Friday Tomàs Luis de Victoria St. John Passion • Sunday, May 6, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong and Concert - Te Deum The First Church Choir, organ, brass, harp, and percussion

For more information, please visit www.concertsatfirstchurch.org 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.

Our Open and Affirming Statement

We, the members of First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Columbus, Ohio, believe the following represents our commitment and desire to reach out and welcome all those in need of and searching for God’s love: We believe that we are all created in God’s image, female and male, and we are called to love our neighbors as Jesus loves us. We believe we are many members, but one body in Christ, and called to unite all people in God’s love. We welcome and affirm all people. We invite those who are seeking God’s presence in their lives to join us on our common journey. Our faith community seeks to unite persons of all ages, races, nationalities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, mental and physical abilities, socioeconomic levels and political and theological 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)

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