A Christmas Festival of Lessons & Carols 16 December 2018 – 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. This year, we mark the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the King’s College tradition of the service, who held its first Lessons and Carols on Christmas Eve, 1918.

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 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 2018 First Church Christmas Ornament featuring the Justice panel from the Rose Window, which is located behind the Beckerath organ in the Gallery. The Ralph Fanning Room may be accessed through the forward doors of the Nave.

The cover art is Hans Memling’sAngel Musicians, and is in the public domain. Memling (1430–1494) was a German-born painter who lived and worked in Flanders. 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 Deck the Halls arr. Albert Zabel Angel Tidings Cynthia Dobrinski

The Exultate Choir Welcome, Yule Austin Lovelace Coventry Carol arr. Mark Sedio Sing Ye, Sing Noel Robert Wetzler

The Jubilate Choir Christmas Dance of the Shepherds Zoltán Kodály ‘Twas in the Moon of Wintertime arr. Robert Hobby Brianna Burkett, piccolo and flute

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 This service of Lessons and Carols is dedicated to the memories of two First Church Choir members who entered eternal life this past year, William Johannes (1945–2018) and Mary Weaver (1958–2018). May we cherish their memories for ever.

The Processional Carol Once in royal David’s city

The first stanza is sung by Sebby Kulwicki, a solo chorister. (Henry Wade, cover) The Choir sings the second and third stanzas. The People stand to sing stanzas four through six 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 Thou shalt know Him when he comes

Thou shalt know Him when he comes not by any din of drums, Nor his manners nor his airs, nor by anything he wears.

Thou shalt know Him when he comes, not by his crown or by his gown, But his coming known shall be by the holy harmony which his coming makes in thee. Thou shalt know him when he comes. Amen.

Text: Anonymous Music: Mark Sirett (b. 1952) The First Reading: Genesis 3:1–15 Maya Haslett 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 Adam lay ybounden

Adam lay ybounden, Bounden in a bond: Four thousand winter Thought he not too long. Deo Gracias. (Thanks be to God.)

And all was for an apple, An apple that he took, As clerkes finden Written in their book. Deo Gracias.

Ne had the apple taken been, The apple taken been, Ne had never our lady, Abeen heavnè queen. Deo Gracias.

Blessèd be the time That apple taken was. Therefore we moun singen Deo Gracias.

Justin Meyer, soloist Text: Anonymous, 15th century Music: Philip Ledger (1937–2012) The Second Reading: Genesis 22:15–18 Finnegan Miller Youth Member

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. John Mason Neale (1818–1866), alt. Music: In dulci jubilo, 14th century German folk tune The People sit. Carol Evergreen How fine the sweetness from the bough, How bright the radiance of the tree, Evergreen, ever living, Evergreen, everlasting, Like the pray’r offer’d now Like the feast day to be For a whole world’s forgiving; After long years of fasting. While the Christ Child is sleeping, Bright in hope Christmas morning Worlds of woe in his keeping, To the Christ Child returning, Worlds of joy in his dream. Once again we believe. Lord, redeem us! Lord, receive us! That when thou art waking When we come before thee, The hearts we uplift The heart’s joy we bring Shall be thy Christmas gift Noel! Shall sing And be well worth thy taking. And for ever adore thee.

Text: Robert Hillyer (1895–1961) Music: Daniel Pinkham (1923–2006)

The Third Reading: Isaiah 9:2, 6–7 Emmanuel V. Remy 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 Jesus Christ the Apple Tree 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sung by the Exultate Choir of First Church Text: From Divine Hymns or Spiritual Songs, compiled by Joshua Smith, New Hampshire, 1784 Music: Daniel Pinkham

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: Isaiah 11:1–3a; 4a; 6 –9 The Honorable Charleta B. Tavares Assistant Minority Leader, Senator, Ohio Senate

The peace that Christ will bring is foreshown.

A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of theLord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze, their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den. They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

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

Carol A spotless rose

A spotless Rose is blowing, Sprung from a tender root, Of ancient seers’ foreshowing, Of Jesse promised fruit; Its fairest bud unfolds to light Amid the cold winter, And in the dark midnight.

The Rose which I am singing, Whereof Isaiah said, Is from its sweet root springing In Mary, purest Maid; For through our God’s great love and might, The Blessèd Babe she bare us In a cold winter’s night.

Christopher Humbert, soloist Text: Anonymous, 14th century Music: Herbert Howells (1892–1983) The Fifth Reading: Luke 1:26–38 Dayna McCrary First Church Deacon

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 Magnificat(Merton College Service)

Magnificat anima mea Dominum; Et exsultavit spiritus meus in Deo salutari meo, Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae; ecce enim ex hoc beatam me dicent omnes generationes. Quia fecit mihi magna qui potens est, et sanctum nomen ejus, Et misericordia ejus a progenie in progenies timentibus eum. Fecit potentiam in brachio suo; Dispersit superbos mente cordis sui. Deposuit potentes de sede, et exaltavit humiles. Esurientes implevit bonis, et divites dimisit inanes. Suscepit Israel, puerum suum, recordatus misericordiae suae, Sicut locutus est ad patres nostros, Abraham et semini ejus in saecula. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto,: sicut erat in principio, Et nunc, et semper: et in Saecula saeculorum. Amen.

My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded : the lowliness of his handmaiden: For behold, from henceforth : all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath magnified me: and holy is his Name. And his mercy is on them that fear him: throughout all generations. He hath shewed strength with his arm: he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seat: and hath exalted the humble and meek. He hath filled the hungry with good things: and the rich he hath sent empty away. He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel : As he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed for ever. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen

Elizabeth McConnaughey, soloist Text: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46–55) Music: Ēriks Ešenvalds (b. 1977) The Sixth Reading: Matthew 1:18–23 Joseph Baszynski 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 O magnum mysterium

O magnum mysterium, et admirabile sacramentum, ut animalia viderent Dominum natum, jacentem in praesepio! Beata Virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt portare Dominum Christum. Alleluia.

O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the new-born Lord, lying in a manger! Blessed is the Virgin whose womb was worthy to bear Christ the Lord. Alleluia!

Text: Responsorial Chant for Matins at Christmas Music: Daniel Pinkham, from Christmas Cantata The Seventh Reading: Luke 2:8–16 Steven C. Anderson Producing Director, CATCO 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. 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 The Magi’s Dream

Night has come to Bethlehem, The family is asleep, Exhausted by the wonders seen, The news outrageous, deep. ‘That I may come and worship him.’

Ox and ass have closed their eyes, Their ears now hear no sound. Shepherds have gone back to their flocks, The mouse still noses around. ‘That I may come and worship him.’

Kings have left for their distant lands, Fractious camels moan. At a desert spring they make their farewells. ‘It’s a mighty way to home!’ ‘That I may come and worship him.’

Later that night their heads are filled With a dream-drenched holy ray. ‘Do not return to Herod the king, Go back another way.’ ‘That I may come and worship him.’

And so our Christ is saved from death His mission to complete To change the world by selfless love Satan’s legions to beat.

Text: Robert Tear (1939–2011) Music: James Whitbourn (b. 1963) 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: Hodie Salvator apparuit: Hodie in terra canunt Angeli, laetantur Archangeli Hodie exsultant justi, dicentes: Gloria in excelsis Deo. Alleluia.

Today Christ is born: Today the Savior appeared: Today on Earth the Angels sing, Archangels rejoice: Today the righteous rejoice, saying: Glory to God in the highest. Alleluia.

Text: Antiphon to the Magnificat, sung on the vespers on Christmas Day Music: Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck (1562–1621) 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 Ding Dong! Merrily on High

Ding dong! Merrily on high, In heav’n the bells are ringing: Ding dong! Verily the sky Is riv’n with angel singing, Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!

E’en so here below, below, Let steeple bells be swungen, And “Io, io, io!” By priest and people sungen. Refrain

Pray you, dutifully prime Your matin chime, ye ringers; May you beautifully rime Your evetime song, ye singers. Refrain

Text: George Ratcliffe Woodward (1848–1934) Music: David Willcocks 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 and Organ harmonization: Paul Halley (b. 1952)

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.

Toccata on Il est né, le divin Enfant Denis Bédard (b. 1950) (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 Brianna Burkett, flute and piccolo The Reverend Dr. Timothy C. Ahrens,Senior Minister Sebby Kulwicki, Solo Chorister Henry Wade, Solo Chorister cover Alex Palmer, Crucifer Mark S. Williams, Verger The Reverend Emily Krause Corzine,Associate Minister Maya Haslett, Exultate Choir Chorister Finnegan Miller, Youth Member Emmanuel V. Remy, Columbus City Council member The Honorable Charleta B. Tavares,Assistant Minority Leader, Senator, Ohio Senate Dayna McCrary, First Church Deacon Joseph Baszynski, First Church Moderator Steven C. Anderson, Producing Director, CATCO Kevin Jones, Minister of Music and Organist

The First Church Ringers Janet Axt, John Deliman, Jennifer Fry, Greg Halbe, 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, Aarav Peter, Henry Wade

The Exultate Choir Lincoln Glaros, Maya Haslett, Mae Hubbard, Erin Murray, Ethan Murray, Sophia Polo, Mia Provenzano, AnnaSofia Grace Severson, Peter Spofforth

The First Church Choir Soprano: Marti Baumer, Brianna Burkett, Candace Cummings, Allison Lange, Melissa Lawson, Nancy Loy, Elizabeth McConnaughey, Susan Pusecker, Lissa Wade, Margaret Wells, Lexi White Alto: Janet Axt, Jamie Blair, Cari Brackett, Cindy Deliman, Allison Ellenberger, Marcia Essig, Brad Findell, Jennifer Fry, Cheryl Hoskinson, Mary Anne Jacobson, Sarah Lange, SallyJane Mathias, Cathy Redenbarger, Jan Wade Tenor: Bill Catus, Kevin Cubick, Jim Griffin, Bill Lange, Justin Meyer, Pavan Peter, Rick Sayre, Dan Stevens Bass: Joseph Bellissimo, 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 Emmanuel V. Remy, Charleta B. Tavares, and Steven C. Anderson, each of whom brings a vital artistic and human force to not only the Discovery District, but also the city of Columbus and beyond.

Emmanuel V. Remy, Columbus City Council member, was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Columbus’ newly elected City Attorney on January 8, 2018. Prior to joining Council, Emmanuel spent the past 6 years as the president of the Northland Community Council (NCC). With over 130,000 residents covering 25 square miles of the city of Columbus, Northland represents a diverse mix of population that reflects the greater City as a whole. As president of the NCC, Emmanuel worked with Northland’s police liaisons, zone attorney, environmental judge and other city and state entities to close down five crime-ridden hotels by having them declared a nuisance. This success led to Emmanuel advocating for licensing requirements to help shutdown “problem” hotels in other parts of the City. Currently, crime in the neighborhoods surrounding these hotels has gone down more than 50%. This policy is now being studied across the nation as a model for other cities to help combat problem hotels and motels. In 2015, Emmanuel also spent a great deal of time working on the redevelopment of the Morse Road corridor and the reauthorization of the Morse Road Special Improvement District (SID). Emmanuel works as a Realtor by trade, specializing in the residential market to help buyers realize their dreams. Emmanuel is married to his wife, Liz who is a Columbus City Schools teacher and serves as her school’s current Columbus Education Association (CEA) representative. They have three children enrolled in Columbus City Schools. Emmanuel is a dedicated public servant and committed to uplifting neighborhoods and residents throughout the Columbus community.

The Honorable Charleta B. Tavares, Senator, Assistant Minority Leader, Ohio Senate, was sworn in on January 5, 2015, for her second term as the State Senator for Ohio’s 15th district and Senate Assistant Minority Leader. A committed and results-oriented public servant, she has served in the Ohio Senate since 2011. Her district includes Bexley and parts of Grandview Heights as well as the historic neighborhoods of Columbus. Tavares serves on the powerful Finance Committee and is vice-chair of the Finance – Health and Medicaid subcommittee. She is one of six legislators to sit on the influential Controlling Board, an oversight panel that allows the state to modify budget appropriations while keeping close tabs on spending. This legislative panel meets to review certain state contracts and appropriation levels, transfer money between funds, authorize certain purchases, release capital funds and perform a variety of other tasks involving state and federal disbursements. Tavares is the ranking member of both the Health, Human Services & Medicaid and the Joint Medicaid Oversight Committee. In addition, she also sits on the Transportation, Commerce and Labor, Agriculture, and Rules and Reference committees. She also served as the co-chair of the Ohio Constitutional Modernization Commission. As a state senator, Tavares’ legislative priorities include: the elimination of health, education and criminal justice disparities; investment in Ohio’s infrastructure; consumer protection; and addressing family stability. Tavares has championed and successfully enacted some of the most significant legislation in the country to reduce infant mortality and eliminate disparities among African-American babies. She has also passed legislation to create the Family Stability Commission, to provide for outpatient commitment for mental health services and to require insurance companies provide equal coverage to different chemotherapy medications. She has successfully fought for a review of all business tax incentives. She is a tireless advocate for those who are marginalized, including children, seniors and individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Previously, Tavares served as a member of Columbus City Council between 1999 and 2010, and chaired the Council’s Housing and Health and Human Development committees. Tavares is the President and CEO of PrimaryOne Health, a federally-qualified primary health care system with 11 sites in central Ohio that provides access to services that improve the health status of families, including people experiencing financial, social, or cultural barriers to health care. PrimaryOne Health provides more than 40,000 patients with primary, OB/GYN, pediatric, dental, vision and behavioral health care, as well as with specialty services including physical therapy, cardiology and dermatology. Tavares served as Executive Director of the Multiethnic Advocates for Cultural Competence, a statewide nonprofit whose mission is to encourage Ohio’s health care providers to adopt practices to better serve the state’s diverse population, such as recognizing the unique health challenges faced by ethnic groups and providing translation services. A native of Columbus, Tavares attended Eastmoor High School, Spellman College in Atlanta, GA, and The Ohio State University.

Steven C. Anderson, Producing Director, CATCO. Anderson’s directing credits include Candide and Hair (OSU); Love! Valour! Compassion! and The Taste of Sunrise (CATCO); Big River and Pippin (Actors’ Theatre);A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (New Harmony Theatre); andGreater Tuna; Little Shop of Horrors; and Assassins (Players Theatre Columbus). At CATCO his work spans from The 39 Steps, the highly popular Avenue Q, the American premiere of The Rubenstein Kiss, and the poignant musical adaptation of Alison Bechdel’s graphic novel, Fun Home. He is the recipient of the Ohio Theatre Alliance Lifetime Achievement Award, the Southside Settlement Arts Freedom Award, and a Certificate of Achievement from the Community Center for the Deaf. His work has been nominated six times for the prestigious Greater Columbus Arts Council’s Excellence in the Arts Award, most recently for Herb Brown’s The Final Table in 2015. 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 Anonymous Anonymous Gail Johannes Deborah M. Anderson Rev. Tim Ahrens & Susan Sitler Kevin Jones & Joseph Bellissimo Gretchen Atkinson Gene & Sue Babb Marti & Rob Rideout G. Dene Barnard John Bachman Drew & Lissa Wade Carol Ann Bradley Gene E. Beard Jane M. Werum Thomas & Evalyn Brandt Ron Betz & Rich Horton Bobby Carrington Nancy Burba Archangels ($500-$999) The Rev. Mary Kay Beall Carter Bernie Castell Catherine, Todd & Aran Cunningham & John Carter Larry W. Clark Tom & Christine Farquhar Frank & Susan Cook Chessie Dellenbach The Rev. Earl & Pauline Fritz Kevin Cubick David Fontana Thomas Gerke John & Francille Firebaugh Ann Fox Nancy Jeffrey Jennifer Fry Dawn George Mary Jane John Mark & Shelley Gallant Anne Hudson Williiam R. Mitchell Dr. & Mrs. Wallace & Sarah Giffen Fred Hunker Philip & Candace Schneider Cheryl Hoskinson Ron & Beth Kenreich Jan Wade Leslie Huntington Barbara Knox Lynn Wallich Richard & Janet Kevan S. J. Lasure Sam & Jean Lebold Jerry L. Meyer Seraphim ($250-$499) Pat Liebchen Carolyn M. Moore Stanford & Jane Ackley David & Betty Meil Linda Mumford Marti Baumer James & Carol Myers Nancy E. Renneckar Barbara Johannes Clapham In memory of Amalie K. Nelson Dr. & Mrs. Larry Rhoades Bert & Bev Cook Todd & Nyla Phillips Anne Powell Riley Jeff & Emily Corzine Blake & Chris Rafeld Daniel E. Schleppi John & Cindy Deliman Cathy & Wayne Redenbarger Carol & Jim Gallagher Rick Sayre Friends ($1-$49) Jim Gieseke & Deb Fox Hugh M. & Dana Navin Schultz Penny Casey Al & Barbara Glover Kent Shimeall & Lisa Morris Douglas & Patricia Slusher Cynthia Krause Judy Smith Bill & Sarah Lange Gleva Stephens Nancy Livingston Matthew Stevens & James Velo Sandra & Joel Mathias Doreen Uhas Sauer & John Sauer John & Jane Muller Elaine Warren In memory of Marie & Dick Pfeiffer Mark S. Williams & Timothy Carsey David A. Ringer Sheldon & Rebecca Taft Tim Utterback Mary & Charlie Weaver Gerry & Marty Worth We invite you to Celebrate the Entire Season at First Church

Sunday, December 23 – The Fourth Sunday of Advent 9 a.m. – Morning Prayer and Holy Communion 11 a.m. – Worship with the Sacrament of Baptism

Monday, 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 – Gloria! Music for Choir, Brass, and Organ 11 p.m. – Candlelight Communion Service

Sunday, December 30 – 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 20, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir • Tuesday, February 5, 12:15 p.m. – Flutist Randall Hester • Sunday, February 17, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir • Sunday, March 3, 4 p.m. – Organist Matthew Dirst • Tuesday, March 5, 12:15 p.m. – Kevin Jones, Harpsichord • Sunday, March 17, 4 p.m. – Choral Evensong The First Church Choir •Monday, April 15, 7:30 p.m. J.S. Bach St. John Passion The First Church Choir, soloists, and Chatham Baroque orchestra • Sunday, May 12, 4 p.m. – Organist Kevin Jones

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.

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