Call to Confession:
Leader: We know that Jesus Christ is coming as God’s gift to our world, but we know we will never live up to the greatness of this gift. Therefore in preparation for Your Coming, let us confess our sins before God and one another as together we pray…
Prayer of Confession:
Congregation: Jesus Christ who came to dwell among us, we confess that we have not fully prepared for your arrival. We have failed to follow the commandment to love one another. We have failed to live fully in your image. This season which should be about you, we have made about ourselves, our parties, and our gifts. We have promoted the ways of hatred, division and war when you call us to peace. Forgive us, we pray. Prepare our hearts to be ready to receive Your Peace. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon:
Leader: This is the good news! Emmanuel, God is with us! Jesus Christ has come to offer us pardon and allow us grace. Through Christ we receive a peace that surpasses all understanding. Peace that comes with unearned forgiveness. Therefore I declare to you, in the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, you are forgiven!
Congregation: In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!
All: Glory to God. Amen.