Hymn – The Candles at Advent

1. The candles at Advent as Christmas draws near;

their strong and unfaltering flames we hold dear.

And each has a message God’s promise reminds,

in sending our Saviour, whose life to us binds.

2. The first of the candles brings Hope with its light,

through times of despair or whatever our plight.

When reaching to touch its most delicate ray,

the faithful and trusting through him find the way.

Light of darkness, Hope is to come, for God will send his Son.

Hope everlasting when he shall come down, the long awaited One.

3. The Love that this candle tells of shall endure;

is always forgiving, and caring and sure.

Our Lord is to come and he comes us to lead:

to teach us to love in our word and our deed.

Light of darkness, Hope is to come, for God will send his Son.

Hope everlasting when he shall come down, the long awaited One.

4. Now, Peace is the candle, its elusive flame,

some search for relentlessly; striving in vain.

In quiet reflection, considering God’s grace,

then those ever thankful shall surely find Peace.

Light of darkness, Hope is to come, for God will send his Son.

Hope everlasting when he shall come down, the long awaited One.

Words: Cecilia Young, Music: Peter Johnston From Spill the Beans – www.spillthebeans.org.uk

Welcome to St Columba’s

Sunday 17th December

The Bible

Welcome & Intimations

Choir

Call to Worship

Hymn 304 - O little town of Bethlehem

Prayer and Lord’s Prayer

Advent Candle Lighting

Hymn – The Candles at Advent (Please see back page)

Nativity

Offering Hymn 300 - The virgin Mary had a baby boy Offering Prayer Bible Reading – Isaiah 9:1-7 (OT page 677) Hymn 331 - Unto us a boy is born!

Reflection Prayers for others and ourselves

Hymn 286 – Tell out my soul

Benediction

St Columba’s Parish Church of Scotland, Glenrothes (SC016386) www.st-columbas.com and we are on Facebook

Minister – Alan Kimmitt (01592) 742233 or

Office – Jen Thomson, (01592) 752539 -

We welcome any visitors with us this morning. Please join us for tea or coffee in the hall after the service. A welcome leaflet with information on worship is available from the welcome team.

Service of Reflection – This Evening at 6pm we will be holding a quiet service of reflection as we approach Christmas. This can be a very difficult time of year for many people and we will have a short quiet pause from the Christmas rush.

You might find this a helpful time to reflect and remember those who are no longer with us this Christmas. All Welcome.

Christmas Services

Christmas Eve - Morning Service at 11am

Christmas Eve - Christingle Service at St Ninian’s – 6pm

Christmas Eve - Watchnight 11.30pm, Tea/coffee at 10.45pm

Christmas Day - Short Family Service at 10.30am

31 December 11am Service - Carols and Communion

Christmas Day Lunch – If you still wish to put your name down for the free Christmas Lunch at St Columba’s, or know of anyone who would benefit from this service, please contact the office on 01592 752539 or email

Grapevine Café – The Café is now closed until Wednesday 10th January at 2pm. A HUGE thank you to all the customers, and to the volunteers, who make this such a success all year.

Krafty Knitters – Will start back on Tuesday 9th January in the Large Hall from 1.30pm-3.30pm. All are welcome to attend.

All donations of wool and buttons are greatly appreciated.

World Mission Council - The Dec / Jan edition of the WMC booklet has now been placed in the information stand at the west door. Entitled 'Red Ribbons and Just Presents' includes several articles on the Church of Scotland work with HIV programmes. If you still haven't completed your Christmas shopping, there are 10 Fantastic Fairtrade Christmas gift suggestions!

Rothes Trinity Parish Shared Notices

Advent Studies - in the Small Hall at St. Ninian’s Church continue tomorrow, Monday 18th December commencing at 7.30pm. The theme is taken from Sheila Jacob’s book, “To Live Again” which was inspired by the film “It’s a Wonderful Life”. Everyone is invited to attend and, if possible, refresh their memory with a viewing of the film! Clips will be shown on the study evenings followed by discussion. Tea and biscuits will be served.

Singing For Seniors Christmas Concert - is on Tuesday 19th December at 2.00pm in St. Ninian’s Church. Everyone is welcome to come along, £2 including refreshments.

Singfinia - are providing a Concert of Christmas Music at St.Margaret’s Church, Glenrothes on Thursday 21stDecember at 7.30pm. Entry at door, £5 for adults and £2 for children.